IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
925.672.0500
‘Time travel’ field trip takes students along Oregon Trail JENNIFER GLADDING-BUTTICCI Special to the Pioneer
DAVE SHUEY
MAYOR’S CORNER CVCHS sends off graduates in fine style As a friend told me after my second child and first son graduated from Clayton Valley Charter High School just a few days ago, “Dang (she was more profane), you know you are old when you have two kids out of high school.” I don’t feel old but reality is knocking on the door. Ugh. The third graduating class of the charter went forward in grand style on June 3 and this time it was very real and poignant for me and my family. Held at the Concord Pavilion, it featured delirious
See Mayor, page 6 PINT-SIZED “TIME-TRAVELERS” FROM ALEXANDRA PIKE’S MDES second grade class got a taste of what the early settlers experienced on the treacherous 2000-mile Oregon Trail. The students set out early in costumes for the two-mile trek through Clayton complete with loaded wagons and Indian ambush.
Don’t let the parade pass you by Independence Day is coming up fast. So, put a coat of wax on the old pickup, stock up on crepe paper streamers and load up the back with flag-waving patriots and enter the 4th of July parade in downtown Clayton. Join your friends and neighbors, clubs, scout troops, and marching bands in this most patriotic and traditional celebration of our country’s independence. The day starts early with the Clayton Valley/Sunrise Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast at Endeavor Hall from 710. Breakfast is just $6 for adults and $4 for kids. After breakfast, head on over to Main Street where Clayton’s Cw Wolfe will be back on the grandstand as Grand Marshall. No advance entry is needed for the Kiddie Parade – just show up by 10 a.m. at the flagpole with decorated bikes, trikes, scooters and the
See July 4, page 3
Young Clayton filmmaker goes to Cannes PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer
When Maxwell Renner was shooting short films of his action figures back when he was a kid, he probably didn’t realize that by the ripe old age of 19 he’d be walking the Red Carpet of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, swimming the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean and being proposed to by an elderly French woman. Or seeing Jake Gyllenhaal. But as he’s learned in his short yet illustrious career, anything can happen if you work hard and follow your passion. Renner is a 2014 Clayton Valley Charter High School graduate and a member of the Clayton Arts Academy. He is currently a Television and Film Media and Theater Performance double major at San Diego State University, and has already done things in his career that would make many longtime film and television veterans cry with envy.
With friends from college, he entered the Campus Movie Fest. “We had one week to make a short film. Seven days to write, cast, film and edit. So we did. The film, called ‘A Couple Feet More, ‘ was a great success at the competition,” Renner says. “We won the prestigious Jury Award, and our film was selected to show in Hollywood because of that. We also won the Fan Choice award, which put us in the running for a $10,000 prize. In the realm of short films, that’s very fortunate.” Renner was on the set of another short film, this one about a school shooting, when one of his colleagues from “A Couple Feet More” shared the news that the film had been invited to be screened at the Cannes International Film Festival and they were invited to accompany it. The experience, he said, was “absolutely magnificent . . . There
See Cannes, page 6
Only a year out of CVCHS, Max Renner is off to an international start with his short film “A Couple of Feet More,” selected to screen at this year’s Cannes International Film Festival.
Proposed 2015-’16 budget balanced with surplus TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
The City Council got its first look at the proposed budget for 2015-16 last week at the June 2 meeting, and the picture looks pretty good. Finance Manager Kevin
Mizuno cheerfully presented a balanced budget with a modest $28,516 surplus contingent on maintaining the status quo in labor negotiations with the Police Officers Assoc. The combined budget for the General Fund and all other special funds, capital improvements
and the RDA Successor Agency comes in at just over $10.84 million, an overall increase of 15 percent over last year. The rosier outlook is largely due to real estate values returning to pre-recession levels and cash infusion from several one-time windfalls including $256,000 due
the city from the county for prior year’s low-moderate income fund balance. Additionally, the city finally settled an old dispute with MDUSD over operating expenses for the Clayton Gym, sending $88,000 back into the general fund. The city also received $250,000 from the state for costs
in winding down the now-dissolved Redevelopment Agency. The General Fund, which makes up 54 percent of the city’s total budgeted expenditures, saw a modest 6.32 percent increase in expenditures largely due to
See Budget, page 6
Trekking through dangerous lands, 31 students from Alexandra Pike’s second-grade class at Mt. Diablo Elementary School braved a treacherous 2000-mile journey in covered wagons and on foot, fighting off the hostile elements on their travels along the Oregon Trail. No, Clayton parents and educators haven’t lost their minds. In fact, they let their children participate in one of the most educational — and fun — assignments of their elementary school careers. This “time travel” field trip took place throughout downtown Clayton, with their classroom at MDES acting at Independence, MO — the starting point for the travelers who really took this epic 19th-century journey. “One of my earliest mentors
See Oregon, page 6
Joan Culver dies suddenly at 80 Popular community volunteer and long-time Clayton resident Joan Culver died suddenly in her home on June 1. Culver, an active member of the Clayton Business and Community Association, was well-known for her volunteer work with VESTIA, filling scores of backpacks for kids at back-to-school time, and for her support of the CBCA Adopt-a-family at Christmas. A retired marketing professional, Culver was instrumental in many efforts to promote downtown businesses and increase Clayton’s visibility in the region. “She was an idea-machine,” said Pioneer publisher, Tamara Steiner, “the perfect brainstormer. Nothing was off the table.” “She always saw the bright side,” remembers Julie Pierce, a close friend. “She was a beautiful soul…I’ll miss her smile and laugh and heart.” Culver, 80, had outlived her family but leaves a legacy of close friends. A full obituary and memorial celebration details will be in the July 10 Clayton Pioneer.
What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Community Calendar . . . . .16 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 School News . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Postal Customer ECRWSS PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
Around Town Matt Mazzei earns Hall of Fame induction for Clayton Valley High community endeavors Matt Mazzei (right) was recently inducted into his alma mater’s Athletic Hall of Fame as the Clayton Valley High School Community/ Leadership honoree. He is a 1971 graduate of the school where he played football, basketball and baseball and also sang in the school choir for three years. His children Matt (left) and Angela (second from right) were both student athletes at CVHS. A local businessman for many years, Mazzei has been a strong supporter of Eagles athletics, in particular the baseball program which named its field in
Rochelle Douglass photo
his honor several years ago. Matt Mazzei Jr.’s wife Jessica (second from left) was also on
hand for the induction last month at Centre Concord.
Better Homes BRE#00933393
George Vujnovich,
helping people and adding value to our members and the communities we serve,” said Corporate Relations Manager, Eric Maldonado. “We do this through social
201 Falcon Place – Clayton
On Tuesday, June 2, Skipolini’s Pizza on Main Street began serving up something extra healthy as an additional Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) was added to the inventory of accessible AEDs in Clayton. This AED brings the city to a total of seven. The units are located at the Clayton Library, Clayton City Hall, the Department of Public Works and three units for the Clayton Police Department, which are located in the vehicles when on patrol. A second new unit is planned for Ed’s Mudville Grill once its staff has been trained. The two new units were purchased through a grant from the Clayton Business Community Association (CBCA). The local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) coordinated the installation and training. These units were intended to be strategically located in the downtown area.
5230 La Corte Bonita – Concord Beautifully updated single story rancher on a HUGE level approx. .46 acre lot! tucked away at the
4 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 2467sf. Desirable downstairs June 14 from 1-4 bedroom & full bath. Updated gourmet kitchen features slab granite counters & stainless steel appliances. Updated lighting, flooring, baseboards, crown molding & designer colors! Beautifully landscaped private back yard is designed with entertaining in mind with multiple patios, lush lawn area and vibrant landscape!
end of the court, backing to creek with RV parking. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1407sf. Rural Country feeling yet located in the center of town. Gorgeous updated gourmet kitchen boasts slab granite counters, honey maple shaker style cabinets & stainless steel appliances. Updated baths boats extensive use of slab granite, tumbled tile and river rock! Upgrades include: Dual panes, thick baseboards, light fixtures & deco paint. Extensive RV/Boat/Toy Parking, 2 storage sheds. Backyard features patio area & composite deck, large lawn area, play structure, fruit trees & raised garden beds!
Open Sunday
1341 Shell Lane – Clayton
cell: (925) 348-5700 georgevujnovich@sbcglobal.net
G P E ND IN
www.georgevujnovich.com Cal BRE #00933393
Chaparral Springs at Oakhurst Country Club! Impeccable "Willow" model! with desirable downstairs bedroom and full bath! 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 1709sf with inside laundry & 2 car garage. $529,900
Jennifer Stojanovich Lifelong Clayton/Concord Resident
(925) 567-6170, jenstojanovich@yahoo.com
1007 Feather Circle – Clayton
www.jenniferstojanovich.com Cal BRE #01446062
Don and Emily Howard,
responsibility, financial education, volunteerism and service…thank you to the community of Clayton for allowing Travis credit union to be their financial partner.”
Windmill Canyon at Oakhurst Country Club! Gorgeous “Larson” model!
Broker, Clayton Resident
(925) 672-4433
Broker-Associate,
Travis Credit Union’s Brad Slaughter, Clayton Branch Manager (left) and Eric Maldonado, Community & Government Relations, Corporate Relations (right) with Clayton vice-mayor Howard Geller.
Herb Yonge of Clayton CERT, along with Clayton Perry, General Manager of Skipolini’s, shows off the new AED.
Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell since 1979 Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
On June 2, the City Council presented a certificate of appreciation to Travis Credit Union for its unflagging support of a long list of community events. Travis has been a generous contributor to the 4th of July Celebration, Clayton Cleans Up, the CBCA Art and Wine and Oktoberfest festivals, the Rib Cook-off and the annual Clayton Classic Golf Tournament and to the Clayton Historical Society. Travis Credit Union was established in 1951 as a financial cooperative, to serve the families an airman of Travis Air Force Base and has grown to over $2.3 billion in assets, in 12 counties, 22 branches, including the Clayton branch. “Our existence is based on the fundamentals of people
New AED added at Skipolini’s
Giovy Webb awarded Harvard Prize Book award Carondelet High junior Giovy Webb of Clayton received the coveted Harvard alumni Harvard Prize Book award at a school assembly on May 28. The Prize Book is awarded to an outstanding junior who displays excellence in scholarship and high character. The Book Prize was established in 1910 to encourage students to go to college. Nearly 2,000 Prize Books, sponsored by local Harvard alumni, are awarded in schools all over the world.
Clayton says ‘thanks’ to Travis
Father/daughter team
PE N DI NG
Don, Realtor-Associate, Clayton Resident Emily, Realtor-Associate
(925) 408-3184
(925) 408-1871
Donald.kent.howard@gmail.com
howard.emily05@gmail.com
howardhomeseastbay.com
Oak Hollow at Oakhurst Country Club! Desirable “Santa Fe” model! 4 bedrooms,
2.5 baths, approx. 1886sf. Well maintained open floor plan with neutral décor. Private backyard with covered patio. Walk to community pool and downtown Clayton! $659,000
Cal BRE #01846446 & Cal BRE#01938441
8016 Kelok Way – Clayton
Diane and Bill Hayes Realtor-Associate, Clayton Residents,
(925) 890-4701, Dianemariehayes25@yahoo.com
S OL D
homesbydianehayes.com
Falcon Ridge at Oakhurst Country Club! Meticulous “Moonlight” model! Single story on a prime view lot! $775,000
$599,000
4 Clark Court – Concord Spacious Single Story nestled in a private court! on a Huge lot! Built in 1988. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1881sf., inside laundry & 3 car garage plus abundant RV parking! Combined formal living and dining room. Family room boasts a vaulted wood beam ceiling & wood burning stove. Eatin country kitchen. Approximately .29 acre lot features mature redwoods, semi wrap around gated composite deck, large storage shed and room to roam! $625,000
1900 Shadywood Court – Concord Immaculate & Spacious home located on a large lot! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 updated baths, approx. 2483sf & 3 car garage! Living and dining rooms with soaring ceiling, neutral carpet & silhouette blinds. All baths have been updated featuring sleek contemporary styles & design including vanities, faucets & lighting. Spacious kitchen adjoins family room with fireplace. Huge master suite with updated bath & large walk-in closet with organizer system. Private lot features a large lawn area & aggregate patio. $689,000
G P EN DI N
Cal BRE #01222762
Clayton Market Update provided by Better Homes Realty
ADDRESS
PRICE
SF
BED/BATH SALE DATE
ADDRESS
PRICE
SF
BED/BATH SALE DATE
370 Mt. Sequoia Pl . . . . . . . . . $769,000 . . . . .2691 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . . . . .6/2/15
280 Mountaire Circle . . . . . . . . $699,000 . . . . .2481 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . . . .5/22/15
510 Mt. Davidson Ct . . . . . . . . $925,000 . . . . .2960 . . . . . .5/4 . . . . . . . . .5/29/15
3084 Windmill Canyon Dr . . . . $810,000 . . . . .2961 . . . . . .4/4 . . . . . . . . .5/21/15
51 Mt. Rushmore Pl . . . . . . . . $725,000 . . . . .1919 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . . . .5/29/15
273 Mountaire Parkway . . . . . $710,000 . . . . .2481 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . . . .5/21/15
4008 Hummingbird Wy . . . . . . $833,000 . . . . .2481 . . . . . .4/3 . . . . . . . . .5/26/15
218 Mt. Wilson Place . . . . . . . $710,000 . . . . .2078 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . . . .5/19/15
8016 Kelok Wy . . . . . . . . . . . . $775,000 . . . . .2237 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . . . .5/22/15
510 Suisun Ct . . . . . . . . . . . . . $615,000 . . . . .1904 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . . .5/14/15
336 Mt. Sierra Pl . . . . . . . . . . . $760,444 . . . . .2078 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . . . .5/22/15
227 Jeffry Ranch Pl. . . . . . . . . $765,000 . . . . .2306 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . . . .5/8/15
June 12, 2015
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
ts r e c n Co e Gr ove h T in
Around Town Clayton/Concord joint Memorial Day observance
Saturdays 6 to 8:30 p.m.
At the Gazebo in The Grove Set up chairs and blankets on the lawn after 4 p.m.
June 20
Mustache Harbor
Classic hits from the 70s and 80s Christopher Cross, Steely Dan, Ace, Kenny Loggins and The Little River Band
July 4
Plan B -
Celebrate the 4th of July with Clayton’s own Plan B!
Presentation of the Colors by the LT. Jerry Novakovich Post 1525 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, assisted by the Mt. Diablo High School Junior ROTC, Boy Scout Troops 262 and 444, the Highlands Elementary Brownie Troop 32485 and the Diablo View Middle School band. Local Choir Yesterday’s Kids led the audience in the National Anthem followed by a Salute to the Armed Forces, with veterans of each branch of the military standing during their anthem. Natalie Tollefson, daughter of Ed and Cecelia Hartley of Clayton and surviving spouse of PFC Benjamin Tollefson who was killed in action in Iraq on New Year’s Eve 2008, spoke movingly about conquering her fears and moving on after her husband’s death. Major General US Volunteers, Daniel Helix, spoke of the “Jigsaw Puzzle of American Patriotic Sacrifice” in the keynote address. The event was sponsored by the VFW Post 1525 with the Ladies Auxiliary and the Korean War Veterans Association Chapter 264.
For many, Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer with pool parties, barbeques and big mall sales. But for others, it’s a day to take seriously and to honor the men and women who lost their lives in service to the country. On Monday, May 25, more than 500 from Clayton and Concord families, veterans and local dignitaries gathered at the Veterans Memorial Flagpole on Main Street to pay their respects to fallen soldiers with prayer, speeches and music. The ceremonies started with the
Mizuno family grows by one Kai Gordon Mizuno made his debut appearance on April 15, weighing in at 6 lbs 5 oz. Kai is the first child of Clayton Finance Manager Kevin Mizuno and wife Katrina. Kevin is a 2004 CVHS alumnus.
July 4, from page 1 family dog. The parade takes an army of volunteers to help with set up, logistics and clean up. If you can help anytime between the hours of 6 a.m. and noon on Saturday, July 4th please call Janet Brown, city clerk, at 925-673-7304 or email:
July 18
Loose Blues -
Plays rockin' blues, rock 'n roll, R&B, and rockin' country to make you dance
Diamond Dave –
Aug 1
sings the classics of Sinatra, Elvis, Justin Timberlake & even Lady Gaga
Aug 15
Fundamentals
high-energy stage show, 3 dynamic, lead vocalists, “Red Hot Rockin’ Soul”
Aug 29
Forejour –
Pays tribute to the music of 80s mega bands Foreigner& Journey
Sept 12
East Bay Mudd -
10-piece cover dance band with a powerful 4-man horn section
Thursdays
Photos Christine Mitchell
(Clockwise from top left) 1. Presentation of the Colors by VFW Branch 1525 2. Clayton singing group, Yesterday’s Kids and 3. Diablo View Middle School band provided the music
Thurs. Concerts end promptly at 8:30pm
jbrown@ci.clayton.ca.us Deadline for entries is July 26. Fill out a parade application at the city of Clayton website at cityofclayton.org, or pick one up at City Hall On Saturday night, rock out at the summer concert in The Grove with Clayton’s own Plan B. Set up chairs and blankets after 4 p.m. Concert starts at 6.
June 11
Lafayette Studio Big Band
July 2
The Relyks
Aug 6
Jam Daddy
Aug 20
PHD’s
Sept 3
Crossman Country
For more band information, go to www.cityofclayton.org. Chairs and blankets may be set out after 4 p.m. on concert days.
PENDING
523 Ross Circle, Martinez
COMING SOON!
$599,950
The Meadows – Completely updated home with 5BD/3BA 2,316 sq.ft. 1BD/1BA on main level. Remodeled gourmet kitchen with granite counters, tile floors, stainless appliances. Brazilian Cherry handscraped floors in living & dining room. Large backyard with built-in kitchen, hot tub, outdoor fan and great views.
1027 Pebble Beach Drive, Clayton
$1,050,000
Peacock Creek – Luminous 4BD/2.5BA 3,307 sq.ft. boasts charm and elegance on a picturesque setting. Gourmet, garden-view kitchen with family room. Back yard is entertainers delight with outdoor kitchen/BBQ grill, built-in spa and breath-taking panoramic views
430 Meadow View Lane, Clayton
T LIS
W NE
996 Autumn Oak, Concord
$924,999
Cal BRE#01939535
Norma R. Fernandez, (925) 408-1349 RFernandez@windermere.com
364 Dante Court, Brentwood
$tbd
Campanello – 3BD/4BA 3,971 sq.ft. home with 3 car garage. This fantastic home has 2 Master bedroom suites, one with a retreat. Oversized bonus room, formal dining room, family room and a gourmet kitchen. Rear yard has a sparkling swimming pool perfect for entertaining.
ING
T LIS
W NE
1947 Dolphin Place, Discovery Bay
Crystyl Ranch – 5BD/3.5BA 3,168 sq.ft. on a quarter acre lot. Master bedroom suite on main level. Fantastic home fully landscaped with private putting green. 3 Car garage. Backs to open space & park.
$1,195,000
Morgan Territory – 4BD/3.5BA 3,689 sq.ft. Custom showcase home. This spectacular home has a Chef's Dream Gourmet kitchen with cherrywood cabinets, granite/quartz counters, wolfe range. Porcelain floors throughout main level. Panoramic views of Mt. Diablo & surrounding hills. 5-car garage, wine cellar.
ING
ING
W NE
7 to 8:30 p.m.
$1,049,000
T LIS
247 Stetson Drive, Danville
Deep Water Dock – 4BD/3.5BA 3,088 sq.ft.. Stunning sunsets & views of Mt. Diablo from the beautiful home w/Premier end of court location. Open views of water & Mt. Diablo. High-end custom home throughout. Cal BRE#01221965
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$995,000
Tassajara Ranch – 5BD/3BA 2,349 sq.ft. beautiful Bently model. 1BD/1BA on main level. Light & bright throughout.. Expanded backyard w/outdoor kitchen & large lawn area. Backs to open space with stunning views.
Assisting More Buyers & Sellers than Anyone Else*
Cal BRE#01156462
Kelly McDougall, (925)787-0448 KMcDougall@windermere.com
"Like" us on
*Statistics based on Clayton/Concord and Contra Costa County Closed sales by volume (1/2014-12/31/2014). Data by Maxebrdi
- Windermere Clayton!
Lynne & Stacy offer free staging on ALL LISTINGS
Two offices to serve the community
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
Ron Brown retires from Save Mount Diablo PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer
It makes sense that the guy who helped save Mount Diablo would want to finally get out of his chair and enjoy it. The mountain will lose a beacon when Save Mount Diablo Executive Director Ron Brown retires in December. No, not the beacon that shines every Dec. 7, but the one who worked yearround with local and regional agencies, conservation groups and residents to help expand the mountain’s open space and recreation areas to more than 110,000 acres. Brown’s retirement after 15 years at the helm of SMD was announced via a letter to SMD members, and in it he reiterated what he said to the Pioneer in an interview: “For 15 years, I have spent a lot of time in meeting rooms, swivel chairs and in front of computer screens to protect the Diablo wilderness. The time has come for me to get outside and enjoy the great lands that we have protected together.” He will be missed by the many local leaders he has worked with over the years, including Clayton City Councilwoman Julie Pierce. “Ron is one of the good guys,” she said. “He has done a wonderful job growing Save Mount Diablo, and become a leader in conservation efforts and environmental groups nationwide. He really set the bar in being collaborative with all the other stakeholders in conservation efforts.” Her sentiment is shared by SMD Board President Scott Hein. “Ron has been an inspiring force for Save Mount Diablo and we will miss him dearly,” Hein said. “We are pleased
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This beautiful Willow model in Chaparral Springs Oakhurst offers 3 bedrooms, 3 baths with 1709 sq ft of living space. Desirable downstairs bedroom and full bath! Light, bright with volume ceilings, plantation shutters, updated lighting, luxurious master with en suite, skylight and more! New (May 2015) deck in private yard, perfect for outdoor entertaining. Community pool and spa and located just steps to downtown Clayton! Offered at $529,000
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Live in a single level beauty with a kitchen designed by a Le Cordon Bleu Chef! Golf course and full Mt. Diablo view add to the splendor of this 4 bedroom 2 bath home. Spa baths with slab marble, hardwood floors— Pool, hot tub and more! Offered at $475,000
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La Bella Palazzo
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Enchanting "La Bella Palazzo" is more than just a home, it is an expression of joy enveloped in architectural artistry. This 7,000 square foot residence features 4 master suites, an impressive media/game room, private office with terrazzo, downstairs and upstairs family rooms, a grand formal dining room and living room with hand crafted raw Italian Alder wood trusses soaring from above! The true chef will delight with deluxe commercial ovens, 800+ capacity wine cellar, wall of built in refrigeration, and exclusive butcher block island. The double turret, the wine barrel inspired solid wood doors, the near 360 degree uninterrupted views, 4 private patios, landscape plan including a 1,000 sf. casita/pavilion, infinity pool & spa, and regulation bocce court raise the bar for luxury living! For details visit www.1155RedfernCourt.com.
www.218MtWilsonPlace.com Stunning views from this lovely 4 bed, 2 bath home ideally located at the end of a cul de sac and backing up to Mt Diablo St Park trail. Volume ceilings, fresh interior paint, new carpet, updated baths. Private deck off the master bedroom. Offered at $669,000
S
mult OLD i overple offer askin s g
I N S P I R E D R E A L E S TAT E
www.myDynamicRealtors.com
Scott Hein
AFTER 15 YEARS LEADING SAVE MOUNT DIABLO IN ACQUIRING LANDS TO PROTECT OPEN SPACE, Executive Director Ron Brown will retire. The capstone to his career was the acquisition of the 1,100-acre Curry Canyon Ranch on the east side of the mountain, a crucial component of the eco-system.
that he will be working with us towards a smooth transition. A search firm has been engaged and will assist us with a national search for the next leader of Save Mount Diablo. And although Ron will be enjoying the great outdoors, he will stay involved on several key projects.” “I feel fortunate I have worked for 42 years in non-profit organizations that help enhance people’s lives,” Brown said. From 1974-1988 he worked with the Contra Costa Jewish Community Center, helping put together outreach programs such as camps, preschools, senior activities, athletic camps and even worked on two building fund campaigns. He was instrumental in helping build the JCC’s recreational building on Tice Valley Road in Walnut Creek, which recently shut its doors due to budget cuts. He then went on to become
the Director of the Diabetic Youth Foundation, and helped establish its summer camp for kids with diabetes and their families. He left there in 1999 and started at SMD in 2000. The Walnut Creek resident, who lives right at the foothills of Shell Ridge, said he was thrilled to have an opportunity to “preserve the beautiful wilderness in our own backyard.” He said he is proud of the real progress that SMD has made in “helping protect the landscape, plants and animals for future generations to enjoy.” When Save Mount Diablo started, there were about 7,000 acres of public land. “Through the work with the state park and other agencies, we now have 110,000 acres of land for permanent protection,” he said. He is proud of all the land he helped preserve, he said, from the small parcels that provide an ecosystem for animals and other
species to the large land grants that were made open space. One of the most gratifying projects he worked on, however, was the acquisition of 11,000 acres in Curry Canyon on the Eastern side of the mountain two years ago. “It was a critical component of the mountain and the ecosystem, and it was a project we were working on throughout most of the time I was at SMD.” Now it’s time to hang up the phone, turn off his computer and “get out and enjoy life while I’m still healthy,” he said. That also means he will get time to spend with his grandchildren, who live in Portland. But he knows you may be able to take the man off the mountain, but you can never take the mountain out of the man. For more information on SMD, go to www.savemountdiablo.org.
June 12, 2015
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 5
The value of security camera systems St. Bonaventure church
CHRIS THORSEN
BEHIND
THE
BADGE
I recently attended a seminar on the use of security cameras as both a deterrent to crime and for use by law enforcement after a crime has been committed. Suffice to say I was impressed with the latest in technology, the simplicity and relatively low cost of new security systems. First, a little bit on the law. There is no expectation of privacy in a public space. Public roadways are open to the public, therefore its legal to record activity that occurs on the road. Additionally, you are free to record activity on your property and within your own home. As a result, many individuals have placed camera systems that record activity on their
porch, driveway and on the street in front of their residence. In other cities, neighborhoods have banded together and purchased camera systems that monitor the entry/exits to their subdivisions. When additional signage is added announcing the presence of these camera systems, there can be a deterrent effect on criminal activity. After the seminar, my curiosity was peaked. I’m fairly handy and I have a basic understanding of computers and wireless networks. I purchased a wireless, battery-operated camera system from a local electronics retailer. Upon returning home, I had the system installed and running in about 15 minutes. The system cost about $200 and included one camera and the wireless hub which plugs into a router. Additional cameras can be added to the system for about $100 dollars each. The system I purchased stores images in the cloud, no DVR is required. When motion is detected, an alert is sent to my phone. I can monitor all activity from my phone or tablet using an app.
More robust systems can be purchased which are hard-wired, use a DVR and have multiple cameras. I’m told that if you’re a “do-it-yourselfer” these systems are also easy to install. Finally, if you don’t have the necessary skills, there are many security contractors who will install the system for a fee. Neighborhood camera systems are becoming more popular. Essentially, these systems are purchased, maintained and monitored by a group of neighbors. Cameras are strategically placed throughout the subdivision, typically at entry and exit points to monitor activity in the public spaces (streets etc). These systems can be effective in identifying criminal suspects in your neighborhood. Keep in mind, there can be privacy concerns. Some of your neighbors may be uncomfortable with their comings and goings being monitored. Who has access to the images and under what circumstances should be clearly identified in advance. When criminal activity occurs, the combination of individual camera systems at a home, coupled with a
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neighborhood camera system, can provide valuable information about those responsible. Should you opt to install a residential or neighborhood system, there are things that are critical. Purchase a system that works effectively in low-light conditions. Images need to be of sufficient quality to make identification possible. Blurry or poor images are of little use. If your neighborhood decides on a neighborhood system, be sure it’s located in a manner that will capture vehicle license plates. Video systems are becoming more prevalent. In public areas such as transit centers, sports stadiums and other venues, most if not all the property, is monitored by video camera. If you don’t want it recorded, you probably shouldn’t do it. Chris Thorsen is Clayton’s chief of police. For questions and comments, call him at (925) 673-7350.
St. Bonaventure Catholic Community is offering another six-week workshop beginning in July for those who have experienced the death of a loved one. Healing the Heart Grief Ministry offers a safe place to express grief and begin healing after the loss of a loved one. The ministry recognize that each person’s grief is unique, and that the death of a loved one is unlike any other loss. Whether the death was sudden and tragic, or one with warning and preparation, the reality of death leaves many people
Why advertise in the Pioneer? Here’s one reason: Painting contractor, Bryan Schaefer, got four calls the first two weeks his ad was in the Pioneer. “The two things I hear most from [new customers] are ‘I wanted to use someone local,’ and ‘Nice ad in the Pioneer.’” - Bryan Schaefer, Schaefer’s Painting
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Long-time Bay Area home improvement company Custom Exteriors is helping Bay Area home owners “Go Green” with energy efficient projects. A new division, Custom Exteriors Home Performance, was formed specializing in energyefficient vinyl replacement windows, fiberglass entry door replacement, solar energy, replacement HVAC systems and insulation. California has long been the leader in energy efficiency with the San Francisco Bay Area willing to adopt and adapt to new technology. Generally, energy efficient projects were comprised of expensive technology that only the higher-earning business owners, executives and celebrities could afford. Virtually everyone else was watching and waiting for an opportunity. Thanks to the forward thinking of the Clayton City Council, the wait is over. With the introduction of Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs CaliforniaFIRST and HERO to Clayton, more homeowners can participate to design, purchase and install energy- efficient and waterefficient projects and “Go Green.” Custom Exteriors Home Performance is the Bay Area leader as a registered contractor for
PACE programs HERO and California First. PACE has been around for a few years but is only now gaining recognition as the excellent opportunity it is. CaliforniaFIRST and HERO are partnerships between business and local governments that enable property owners to make energy and water efficient improvements to any property, residential or commercial, that they own. Property owners pay for the improvements along with their property taxes as an assessment to the property for a five- to 20-year term depending on the service life of the project chosen. For example, a five-year term with energy savings and tax deductibility, the effective APR is less than zero. Approvals are not based on credit scores, but on the payment history, both mortgage and property tax, of the home. Applying is simple and only takes a couple of minutes. Using the calculator tools, homeowners will learn how much money they might save on energy costs over the next 25 years. Conversely, that savings also represents the cost of doing nothing should they opt out of a Custom Exteriors Home Performance project. With nearly 7 percent annual PG&E rate increases and an energy inefficient home, the cost is staggering. If the homeowner is approved for PACE, usually for an amount equal to 10 percent of the home’s value, we sit down and
discuss project options. Taking a “reduce before you produce” model we discuss how making the home energy-efficient first is important before adding solar or an updated HVAC system. Why? An energy-efficient home has a reduced energy need. That means you can use a smaller and more efficient HVAC system. If you are considering solar for your home, that means you need fewer panels and less weight on your roof. Home Performance Energy Upgrades that qualify for special financing programs include: WINDOWS — vinyl, fiberglass, and wood meeting a specific U-Factor and SHGC. DOORS — generally fiberglass, meeting or surpassing the Energy Star code. SOLAR— Systems are far better than ever, with system monitoring included. HVAC— State-of-the-art technology offers remote access to the system. ATTIC INSULATION — The No. 1 improvement. Most homes are under insulated. And so much more! Meet us on Saturday mornings at the Farmer’s Market. Jack Cooper represents Custom Exteriors Home Performance Marketing and Business Development and is a Clayton resident. Contact him at jcooper@custom-exteriors.com
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shocked, confused and sad. These feelings may linger for years. Healing the Heart Grief Companions have also lost someone who is dear to them and know the value of having someone listen with their heart. The next grief workshop is July 28 from 7:30 to – 9 p.m. at Saint Bonaventure, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. The program is free, but registration by July 17 is required. Please call Helene Billeci at (925) 6864870 or email healingtheheart@stbonaventure.net to register and for more information
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
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in teaching and closest friends, Anna Gee, started doing this field trip 12 years ago,” says Pike, a first-year teacher a MDES. “I had the great fortune of seeing her in action and participated in similar events three times prior to her retirement. I saw how this experience really made learning come alive for the students, and loved seeing the engagement of the parents as well. It’s this spark that motivates me most as a teacher.” HEADING OUT The “travelers,” anxious to get going, lined up their wagons loaded with supplies for the arduous journey and headed west. “Oregon or Bust” signs flanked the wagons as they rolled by. Imaginations fed on the thoughts of prairie schooners, so named for the white canvases that seemed to sail over the golden prairies. Joyful children pulled wagons by turn, dressed in their western best with cowboy hats and leather vests for the boys and bonnets, calico dresses and aprons for the girls. The first stop was “Jailhouse Rock” (behind the old firehouse). A picture of the 400-foot monument was held up high, and tales were shared about landscapes to be seen along the long march. Just a day’s hike away was Chimney Rock where they would soon see the end of the prairies. How far would they go between each landmark? What was encountered? Who was left behind? How did they survive? These were all lessons the children learned. On a typical day, teams were
up at 4 a.m. with a gunshot to herald the arrival of the sun. Mothers started cooking and fathers started herding cattle and breaking camp. Children gathered buffalo chips for the fires. Breakfast often consisted of pancakes and baked beans with bacon fat mixed in. Later in the day, lunch was leftovers. “For children who have never known a world without the Internet, cellular phones, or air travel, winding back the clock broadens their horizons and gives them a greater appreciation for history,” Pike says. “The children must think critically about the challenges of days-gone-by in an environment largely foreign to their day-to-day experience. My primary goal is that they leave with a greater appreciation of how transportation, cities and societies change over time.” TRIALS ALONG THE WAY Lives were short back then. While stopped at Scotts Bluff (the Police Station), children also learned about early courtships where boys would get clean shaven (with a lollipop stick) and girls would learn of curling their hair with an old-fashioned curling iron. Stories were told of lives and deaths on the Oregon Trail. Cholera was rampant, spread through contaminated food or water. Graves were often dug and hidden so as not to be disturbed. Fort Laramie trading post was a welcome site (at the Keller House behind the library), where sugar and flour were traded for dream catchers, obsidian and arrowheads. Their ongoing jour-
Cannes, from page 1 were men bustling around in tuxedos, women in gowns, models, actors, directors and writers, and the town was just hopping.” At the same time, there were other young filmmakers in similar stages of their careers as Renner, soaking in this once-in-alifetime experience. For Renner, though, it may not be once-in-a-lifetime. ‘I wouldn’t mind coming back.” The reviews for “A Couple Feet More” were as positive as the experience, garnering praise such as “original,” “refreshing,” and “told a story that needed to be told.” In a mere five minutes, Renner wrote a film that explored the passions of true love, the joy of pregnancy, the sadness of its loss and the ultimate joy of
adoption. The film doesn’t use traditional screen shots, but instead focuses on feet — hence the title. “It’s not a typical lighthearted short film, but it does have a lot of happiness in it,” he says. And what did he take home from the experience? “I came back from the festival with a renewed sense of purpose in regards to my craft, myriad business cards, and a big middle finger ready to thrust upon anyone who doubts anybody on anything.” The film short, “A Couple Feet More” can be viewed on http:// savedonwd.wdc.com/contests/ showentry/1810349 Viewers have until June 15 to vote on the $10,000 short film prize, and may vote once per day.
Mayor, from page 1 graduates with colorfully decorated mortar board hats and a serious “I am outta here” attitude. Senior Class President Sana Nawid and Student Body President Samantha Dumalig gave wonderful and thoughtful speeches with confidence and style well beyond their years. The theme of taking the lead on redressing wrongs in this country and the world shone through and made us
proud of our children as they move forward into adulthood. Clayton’s own Kyle Wickware sang a rousing rendition of “Roads” that brought not just his own mother to tears. Personally, it was very cool to see boys who I coached as wee ones in baseball, basketball and soccer grab their diplomas. In all, it was a great time for the charter and the community to shine. And let’s not forget
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ALEXANDRA PIKE’S HUSBAND, CLAYTON POLICE OFFICER ALLAN PIKE led the “ambush” as “natives” attacked the pioneers, pounding drums, whooping and squirting the surprised travelers with water guns. Pike took the day off to help his wife with the field trip.
ney would take them 15 miles a day on foot encountering storms, rough terrain, and natives. Just that day, the group heard the Indian drums. Suddenly the group was surrounded by natives squirting water high in the air to hit their targets. A few keen children hid behind the wagons and escaped the dousing. It was noted as a favorite part of the day. Nearing the end of their journey (in downtown Clayton), a Decision at The Dalles had to be made: Find a way to pull the wagons over and through the mountains, or build rafts and float the wagons down the Columbia River. The children held up their hands to vote for taking the water route, only to be told that many of those travelers died as rafts fell apart, wagons tipped over and cold rushing waters took hold. The survivors, finally, arrived at Endeavor Hall, the end of their journey. Kids were greeted with pioneer chores (washboards, clothes ringers, and clothes pins) along with some fun, like gold
Budget, from page 1 increases in fixed costs, including a “titanic” 40 percent increase in the contract with Concord for police dispatch services. Many of the city’s big dreams for capital improvements dried up in 2012 with the state’s “kill-off ” of the Redevelopment Agencies. Major projects planned for the coming year are almost all dedicated to street improvements and pavement projects. The bulk of the $1.7 million needed to fund these improvements comes from gas taxes, Measure J and local, state and federal grants. The Grove Park is safe for 20 years. Last Nov., voters renewed the funding for the park with an overwhelming 81 percent vote. Landscaping improvements next year will understandably be
limited by the city’s mandated 40 percent reduction in water use. The city plans on spending $477,000, mostly for improvements to the gateways and creek bridges. The hardscape and irrigation systems will go in as planned, but plantings will have to wait until the restrictions are lifted. And finally, the side fund portion of the city’s unfunded pension liability continues to decline and should disappear completely in five years. A public hearing on the budget is set for June 16, 2015 at 7 p.m. in Hoyer Hall at the library. The proposed budget can be reviewed at www.ci.clayton.co.us. Click on Government, Council, Agendas and Minutes, 2015 Agendas and June 2, Or call City Hall, 925.673.7300.
our graduates from De La Salle, Carondelet, Berean and other private schools. Way to go graduates. Not to be outdone, both Mt. Diablo Elementary and Diablo View Middle promoted their fifth and eighth graders on June 11. On the city front, we will have a new Community Development Director to replace our retiring director. Mindy Gentry will be leaving her position as the Senior Planner for the City of Antioch to work closer to her home in Clayton (nice commute upgrade) and
become our next director effective June 17. Welcome Mindy. As to your pocketbook, realty data for April 2015 shows median sale prices are up 15.1 percent from a year ago with the average for a single family home price at $862,300, up a whopping 24.8 percent from 2014. Townhomes are also up 8.6 percent from a year ago. Hmm, what to do with this increase in home value? Taking out lawns for drought resistant landscaping, perhaps? Another positive, we had our best recycling month for curbside residential this year at 54.63 percent. The minus is that commercial recycling hit its abyss for the year at 14.45 percent. Overall, our recycling mark for April was 50.80 percent, bringing the 2015 total to 48.11 percent. Folks, we need to do better with water and recycling so let’s step it up. Remember, the Clayton Farmers Market is downtown every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon with wonderful produce, flowers and homemade goods. Come support local producers and get some good eats. George Washington Carver said, “Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.” Nelson Mandela stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Email me at dshuey@ci.clayton.ca.us.
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panning, Indian stick games, and button dolls. The day was topped off with lunch and root beer floats in cowboy boots. “Just as the pioneers didn’t make the trip alone, what always makes this event successful is a tremendous outpouring of support,” Pike says. “My husband [Clayton Police Officer Allan Pike] and sister-in-law help by building the wagons and operating various stations. Parents freely give of their time to accompany students, facilitate crafts, and even capture the memories on film. My friend, Anna, graciously provides costumes for the children and shares tales along the journey. I’m grateful for all their support and am glad we’re able to work together to put on a memorable experience for the students, year after year.” On that Tuesday, the history of the Oregon Trail came to life in Clayton for children and parents alike. Clayton staff writer Peggy Spear contributed to this story.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
St. John’s hosts head of African midwifery group
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 John Jackson, Jay Bedecarre
We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse
PIONEER INFO CONTACT US
Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send School News to schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com
CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: $48 for first 30 words, 40 cents each additional word Non-profit: $24 for first 30 words, 20 cents each additional word To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 672-0500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a 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 250 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include 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 Email. 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 30,000 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 us at 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.
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GARY CARR Special to the Pioneer
S TAFF W RITERS : Peggy Spear, Pam Wiesendanger,
Page 7
The Ebola epidemic is waning, but the need for midwifery services in rural Africa continues to grow. That’s the message of Alpha B. Seisay, who will speak at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Clayton on Saturday, June 13. Seisay is CFO of Midwives on Missions of Service (MOMS), a non-profit organization that counts numerous volunteers from Northern California. MOMS, which is beginning its tenth year of work in Sierra Leone, is a humanitarian agency focusing on the empowerment of rural women in a country that has the world’s worst maternal mortality rate. MOMS volunteers accompany local members of the organization on treks into the rainforest to teach women to teach each other how to survive birthing and to make health-related changes in their communities. Seisay appears at the invitation of Patricia Ross and Chris McManus, both of whom served as deacons at St. John’s in Clayton before retiring. Both serve on the board of MOMS and have made trips to the Sierra Leone rainforest to teach
Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Custom Exteriors Home Performance . . . . .888-957-7800 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500 J.A. Ronco Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .872-3049 Schaefer’s Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-6065 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Alpha B. Seisay will speak about midwifery services in Africa at St. John’s Episcopal at 2 p.m. on June 13
basic midwifery to rural women. Seisay realizes that pregnant teen girls are in special need, and that MOMS must assure all the people the organization has trained that they have not been forgotten. You can hear more about MOMS and meet Seisay at 2 p.m. June 13, at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Road in Clayton. A reception will follow the presentation. For more information about MOMS, visit the website www.globalmidwives.org. The event is free to the public.
Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Mi Pi Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-3819 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Scousers Fish’n Chips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .521-1962 Events City of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .cityofclayton.org Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . . . .800-949-3276 Financial, Insurance and Legal Services Archvest Wealth Advisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215-5600 DuRee, Daniel – The Law Office of . . . . . . . . . . .210-1400 Littorno, Richard – The Law Office of . . . . . . . . .432-4211 SAFE Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . .safecu.org/homeloans Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . . . .672-2300 Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Groceries Doorstep Farmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .349-4568
City of Clayton now accepting applications for
PLANNING COMMISSION TWO OFFICES Office Term: July 2015 - June 2017 The Planning Commission is comprised of 5 Clayton residents who are appointed by the City Council for two-year 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 Site Plans Reviews, 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, 7:00 pm, in Hoyer Hall at Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA. • 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 two (2) Commission office terms expiring on June 30, 2015. • 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 5:00 p.m., Friday, June 26, 2015. Full City Council interviews will be held on July 7th and are open to the public. Appointments are expected to be made at the City Council meeting of July 7th.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
Schools CVCHS Grand Altair Samantha Dumaling
CVCHS Grand Altair winner, Samantha Dumaling has been in student body leadership since her freshman year. She is a member of numerous clubs and organizations on campus and has participated in the freshmen transition program for the last three years. She also works diligently as a student leader to create a positive high school experience for her classmates. A top student, she has consistently taken Advanced Placement classes, attended classes at Diablo Valley College and tutors freshmen. Described by her presenter as having “much grace and dignity,” Dumaling led her leadership class “with a solution-driven approach to planning activities.” Dumaling will attend UC Berkeley in the fall where she will major in engineering. The Leadership Altair Award is awarded to a student chosen by their peers and teacher for “being able to motivate and encourage others to reach for a goal while exercising one’s own efforts to do the same.” This year’s Leadership Altair recipient, Tina Karimi,
CVCHS Leadership Altair
CVCHS Scholarship Altair
CVCHS Service Altair
Tina Karimi
Michael Dong
Daisy Agers
was described by the presenter “Fearless. Fierce. Fun. Fabulous. And Female.” Karimi has shown leadership in many positions throughout her high school career. She served as the junior class social director and is currently student body vice president. She is president of the French Club and a member of the French National Honors Society. Karimi will attend UC Irvine in the fall to major in biomedical engineering.
With grade point average of 4.65 and a final semester load of five Advanced Placement classes, the Michael Dong was the recipient of the Scholarship Altair award. Among the senior’s notable projects was a video he made for the books of The Odyssey. He, his friends and family played multiple parts in full ancient Greek outfits demonstrating the hero’s return to his home. Dong will attend UCLA in the fall to study bio-engineering.
The Service Altair award is given to the senior who has demonstrated extraordinary service to the school. Daisy Agers’ service has included hosting a wheelchair basketball fundraiser to raise money for park equipment for handicapped children, as well as organizing and re-energizing school spirit with the Blue Crew. Daisy also demonstrated her service by coordinating a fashion show and supporting the Public Service Academy activities.
Clayton Valley Charter High School 2015 Graduates Graduation, Wednesday, June 3, 2015 at 7 p.m. at the Concord Pavilion Kristin Jeanette Abele Daisy June Agers Xavier Frank Aguirre Hela Nawabi Ahmadi Humaira Ahmed Henah Akbar Sarah Adnan Mahdi Al Kadhim Tisiola Unaloto Kitonga Alatini Samuel Clayton Albertsen Paige Marie Alford Ahmed Mohamed Alhag Taylor Patricia Aliotti Connor Michael Allen Holly Noel Allen Jonathan Landrum Allen Melinda M. Alvarez Paige Elizabeth Anderson Rashid Meer M. Ansari Bethany Jane Anzelone Megan Casteal Ardebili Jillian Grace Argento Taylor Kristian Ashoo Nikolas Alexander Avalos Krystal Jordan-Piikea Aven Anton Yotecatl Avila-Martinez Kyle Gabriel Bacigalupo Ryan Matthew Baldwin Karyna Renee Balmain Devin Jamal Banks Kevin J. Barron Ashlyn Victoria Shae Bartzi Mackenzie Marie Bell Jonathon Parker Bellesorte Roxana Benavidez Grifin Mcdermott Bentley Samuel Eliezer Bercilla Alyssia Marie Bermudez Jacquelyn Kiara Berry Gregory Mark Biagi Christian Addison Bone Diwa Nyree Bonnevie-Esco Amber Lynn Booth Harrison Micheil Boyle Monique Sinclair Braman Maxwell Stephen Brandt Connor Maclean Braun Brenda Jazzlyn Bravo Elijah Arlen Breon Amy June Broussard Christopher Lucas Brown Kierra Margaret Brown Sarah Elizabeth Brumfield Alexander James Bufano Eric Joseph Burkley Tyler James Burton Ed Christopher Ybanez Cabahug Emily Freitas Cabral Alexis Bermejo Calderon Liam O’Brien Calkins Alexis Nicole Cannedy Brandon Lee Carrasco Taja Deshanae Carruth Jax John Carter Ciera Ann Cathcart Shelby Ann Caulder Maya Victoria Ceballos Chung Yan Chan Ana Karen Chena Davila Brandon Alexander Clement
Nathan Lee Coffey Patrick Raymond Cogo Aline Collard Masen Jon Confetti Kayla Marie Conger Ryan Garner Cooper Telimah Lashai Jeanette Cooper Noelle Paulette Correa Roger Steven Cortes Blake Michael Crahan Leza Cruzada Seth Michael Cummings Mykelle Jivon D’Tiole Blake Andrew Daniel Sophia Lorraine Dattilo Marshawn Andr’e Devia’r Davenport Dominique Ann Davis Marin Love Davis Jeff Cuya Del Rosario Rachel Reed DeLong Christopher Estacio DelRosario Kimberly Rose Dennis Briana Simone DeRouen Monica Lauren Diaz Tatiana Renee Dickey Megan Lynn DiMartino Kaitlyn Angela Dimech Toma Dimitrov Dimov Alyssa Brielle Diquattro Jamie Lynne Dirks-Phelps Michael Richard Dong Shannon Elizabeth Donley Corey Alexander Ducker Samantha Serrano Dumalig Breeana Elizabeth Edelson Joseph Hugh Ellis III Carlos Alberto Espitia Jr. Primo Guseppi Facchini Brandon Michael Falls Julianna Conchetta Farr Jessica Marie Ferguson Michael Grant Fernandes McHugh Daniel James Ferrell Bradley Ross Filgas Courtney Renee Fischer Evan Cole Forhan Gabrial Davina Forrester Nathaniel Ardell Foster Jr. Annfie Amaris Franco Daniela Inez Franco Leanna Margaret Franco Gino Ray Franklin Anthony Michael Frasier Monae Ayana Jaye Freeman Ilyse In Young Fuller Stefanos George Gallegos Grant Joseph Ganguet Sandra Vanessa Garcia Mojica Alysha Dawn Gasowski Thomas Elywn Gerow Laila Salam Ghannam Morgan Alexandra Giacobazzi Athawan Orion Gipson II Samuel Caleb Givens Ryan Jonathan Gloeckner-Ring Lauren Elizabeth Gloekler Jonathan Alberto Gomez Gonzalez Crystal Campos Gomez Julio Gomez
Alexis Nicole Gonzalez Bianca Gabrielle Gonzalez Georgina Natalie Gooding Alyssa Jean Gosling Jovanni Alvarado Gracida Shaelyn Mairi Grady Joshua Joseph Grau Joseph Nicholas Gregory Ajani Jabari Griffin Samantha Marie Gripe Steven Lee Grothman Emily Angelina Guerisoli Diego Alberto Guerrero Romy Alejandra Gutierrez Camarillo Hannah Danielle Guzman Lilian Roxana Guzman Meaghan Arsine Hambalek Gavin Michael Hanratty Miranda Inger Hansen Ellis Morgan Hanson Stephen James Hargreaves Shea Marie Harvey Jacob Michael Haworth Katie Allison Haymaker Ricardo Andres Helena Caleb John Herman Freddie Anthony Hernandez III Diana Alejandra Hernandez Eliseo Sadrac Hernandez Gabriel Vincent Hernandez Selena Patricia Hernandez Nicholas Blake Heyer Keaton Robert Hill Alexandra Louise Hills Danielle Leigh Hoagland Tam Minh Hoang Jordan Ellie Howard Madison Dakota Howard Sarah Juanita Hutapea Abrahim Zaid Ibrahimi Michael James Ihle Mathew Joseph Israel Breaune Tamura Elizabeth Jacks Haley Ann Jackson Nathan Reed Jaggers Jonathan Frank Jayaprakash D’Andre Kalvin Jennings Thomas Clayton Johnson Omar Habib Karimi Tina Karimi Brianna Marie Kearney Naame Teklom Kelet Shadia Botros Kemel Emma Danielle Keneipp Zakery Andrew Kenyon Rita Samoul Kedis Kerollos George Joseph Kindred Alexander Ryan King Kristopher George Kolokousis Satria Jane Komari Katelyn Ali Kommer Jason Andrew Kreske Brenda Michell Benavides Kwan Arianna Morgan Laiho Rachel Elizabeth Lanfranchi Robert Nicholas LaPolla Drew Matthew Larke Omar Soliaman Latif Samantha Elaine Lawson
Taylor McKenzie Leal Jason Joseph Lee Joseph Raymond Levine Breann Paige Lewis Katherine Renee Lewis Korissa Michelle Lewis Cormac Brian Lillis Cecilia Limon Alec Charles Lindsey Aiden Peter Lineweaver Megan Doreen Lobsinger Adrian Nicolas Lopez Nestor Alfonzo Lopez Lauren Elizabeth Ludlow Marianna Luna Jacob Timothy Lunsford Dillon Lutz Marissa Christine Macedo Amanda Fae Mah Kevin Thomas Mahlman Shady Ayman Zakaria Makramalla Julia Elizabeth Mangini Shane Stephen Mann Briana Manzano Alexandra M Marraccini Benett James Marshall Alexander Cole Martinez Elisse Cunanan Martinez Mabi Aisel Martinez Theodore George Matthews Katherine Kiyomi Mayhew Matthew David Mc Huron Ariel Marie McCamy-Cyran Kyle John McCracken Zackary Collin McDonald Reginald Kahlil McKenzie Jr. Connor Parker McMurdo Kyle Duncan McMurry Yvonne Marie Mendez-Apodaca Matthew Timmothy Merrigan Ryan Foster Milligan Deandre Maurice Mitchell Jr. Casey Lynn Mitchell John Henry Mitchell Shanice Nicole Mitchell Tyler James Mitchell Luis Antonio Molina Zachary Franco Molina Lindsay Ray Mondloch Marlon Marcel Montes II Julie Rose Montgomery Kaitlyn Mae Montgomery Isabella Grace Montijo Robert Brendan Moore Patrick Alexander Morales Tyler Jason Moreci-Valdes Mark Anthony Moreno Benjamin Byrne Morse Jasmine Marie Mouloua Matthew Darwin Mullins Sana Vessal Nawid Ryan Todd Nebeker Ryan Ronnie Nejad Jared Anthony Nelson Bolor-Erdene Nergui Brianne Gabrielle Newell Preet Kaur Nijjar Trevor Matthew Nolan Nora Cassandra Nole
Sanaa Zekrya Noor Nicolas Andres Noratto Rhett Norman Frida Pamela Sinai Nungaray Josiah JayVante’ Levi Nunley Jack Taylor O’Leary Lauren Brooke Offield Gregory Steven Olson Patrice Anne Marie Omandam Tyler Kendall Ornelas Sarah Sonya Owen Giovanni Rene Panameno Ajay Paul Parecadan Annie Lenee Park Robert Anthony Parker Hailey Alissa Pascoe Breonna Pauline Pattison Robyn Brandi Patton Breanna Rochelle Payne Richard Glenn Peralta Justina Perez Moises Perez Alicja Patrycja Piatkowiak Briana Sue Pike Jaquelinne Berenice Pina Mikaela Lauren Ploetz Pauline Faith Besenio Poe Brandon Devon Tomas Post-Estrada Julia Katherine Moyer Posz Cerise Kartini Putri Pratiwi Jared James Prell Holly Ann Price Samantha Marie Proia Emily Helen Rabbitt Zachary William Radatz Ariana Gina Rahbari Will Jacob Ray Shane Wyatt Reardon Sohnjay Elisjah Reeve Nathaniel David Edwin Reynolds Caleb Jay Ricks Anna-Louise Rosaline Whipple Riehl Alyson Jill Robinett Jesus Antonio Robles Viridiana Guadalupe Robles Haylee Marie Roden Brody Nicholas Rogers Kayleigh Anne Rohrbach Cambria Rojas Scott Thomas Friedman Roos Jessica Karina Rosales Joshua Herschel Rosen Shimon Leon Rosenblatt Emily Ana Rowland Kimberly Ruby Ruedas Alvarado Lauren Ann Russell Lauren Marie Sadler Ana Karen Said Alvarez Somaya Saleem Bryce Alexander Sampson Michael Joseph Santiago Amanda Marie Satterfield Cole Craig Sawyers Edelle Joy Schlegel Grant David Schofield Isabel Marie Schrantz Kimber Matea Searle Amanda H. Shein Mustafa Sherdil
Clay Thomas Shipley Andrew Jefferson Shuey James Frederic Siegrist Morgane Sable Sloan William David Smiglewski Carter Allan Smith Jackson Benzinger Smith Julia Buckley Smith Megan Elizabeth Smith Cathryn May Snyder Angel Jesus Soto-Yoder Nina Brianna Sian Sotto Brandon Conrad Sovik Marc Richard Spencer Renae Leeann Stapleton Shaina Marie Steinberg Ryan Edward Stickney Samuel Isaiah Stielow Natalie Mia Straka Madelyn Claire Stull Nathan Wayne-Shong Su Jared Andre Cabras Suasin Hannah Lorraine Taylor Joshua Zamir Tejada Stephano Sarino Tejada Brent Donald Tovrea Kyle Tran Riley Suzanne Travers Kyra Ann Trowbridge Samantha Nicole Turpen Leeana Janae Valerio Chase Benjamin Van Sickle Tyler Adam VanEpps Katelynn Renee VanTuyl Michael Louis Vargas Nicole Christine Verduzco Luke Samuel Vergara John Vincent Vicente Alejandra Maria Villagran Yela James Tyler Vincent Chandler Ryan Wakefield Delaney Erin Walls Sara Jean Ward Eduardo Wence Tanner Thomas White Jeremiah De’Angelo Whitfield-Pearson Kyle James Wickware Thomas Gunner Wiesendanger Micah Jared Wilburn Skylar Morgan Wilkinson Alexandra Nicole Ingram Williams Jasmine Antwanette Williams Sarah Anne Williams Wade Daniel Williams Teyanna Nalia Willis Christina Kathryn Wilson Jacob Joseph Woods Matthew Austin Wright Lorenzo Valentin Yacarini Oritsetineyine Omasan Jemine Yesin Jason Kelly Young Amanda Lisa Youngdale Nargess Yousofzai Diego Rafael Zamora Justin Bryan Zapanta Alonzo Zavala-Soulette
June 12, 2015
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 9
After seven years, TeenSpeak columnist packs it in
ROBBIE PARKER
TEENSPEAK Yet, here I am, currently engaged in another staring match with an incessantly blinking cursor and the familiar, blank canvas of a word processor — one final time. It won’t be too long, however, before I find the right words and begin typing away. Once finished and finally published on paper, I’ll send a copy of the monthly Pioneer with my dad, so that he may laminate my article and file it away with the rest. This process will happen in a few weeks, but not next month. Nor will it happen next year. Coming to terms with my
departure from the Clayton and Concord Pioneer is certainly bittersweet. In all honesty, difficult would be an understatement when finding the right words to say goodbye. The contents of a farewell article typically consist of the writer both lamenting the end and celebrating the span one’s career, exploring personal change, and remarking at the sudden passage of time — especially at the passage of time. I felt compelled to write something such as, “It is hard to believe that nearly seven years ago Tamara Steiner asked me to fill in the position of Diablo View Middle School Student Reporter.” I tend to avoid the use of clichés in my writing at all costs, but I can find no other way to express my disbelief. It feels like it was only yesterday that I awoke unusually early on a Sunday to the sound of my father’s voice. I did not know it at the time, but in his hand was a single clipping of newspaper that — as cheesy as it sounds — would forever alter the course of
my life. On the piece of newspaper was an advertisement for a Father’s Day writing contest; in bold, the headline read, “Make your Dad King for a Day! Write an essay telling the Clayton Pioneer why your dad deserves to be crowned King for a Day.” I vividly remember the summer day that I received the phone call notifying that I had won the contest. I was ecstatic, but the honor that I felt doesn’t even compare to the moment I was offered a dedicated column in the paper. Since that time, writing has become both a pastime and a form of personal catharsis. Through the highs and lows of grade school, through the many trials and tribulations, after dozens of student interviews and more last-minute speedwrites than I’m willing to admit, I am proud to say that my column was absolutely worth the extra stress. Taking the time each month to express my opinions in a cohesive and coherent manner improved my self-
esteem and provided me with an assortment of invaluable interpersonal skills. With that said, I owe so much to my editor, my community and, most importantly, my readers for providing a platform from which I can express myself openly. I must admit that, at the outset of my journey as a columnist, my writing was not quite my own. Of course, I’m not referring to plagiarism; no, it was my opinions and evaluations that were almost entirely borrowed. Be it from my parents, teachers, or even my friends, the “insight” that I felt I had exhibited in my writing was nothing more than an impartial and occasionally preachy con-
glomeration of outside influences. With every column however, I focused on improving my craft, and soon, I started to recognize my own unique voice. Suddenly, exploring controversial issues in my writing became a challenge rather than a risk. More than anything, however, I learned to think for myself — because nothing teaches you to disregard others’ judgments quite like writing opinion pieces for an audience of hundreds. As of now, I’m not certain I will pursue journalism beyond this point. I can’t quite say it’s my passion, but writing for the Pioneer has certainly helped shape me into the man I am
today. I eagerly anticipate the day when I can view the Pioneer from my dorm room at Chico State University, jump to the TeenSpeak column, and read what the best and brightest of our beautiful community has to offer. Robbie Parker is a graduate of Clayton Valley Charter High School. Send comments to Robbie@claytonpioneer.com Congratulations, Robbie, on a stellar seven years. It has been a privilege and an honor. The Pioneer staff, your readers and most of all, your editor say “farewell and keep in touch.” —Editor
Congrats to the Grads Nicholas Graham
Dominic Del Monte
Juliette Legault
What a guy, your determination, hard work, and dedication all paid off. Congratulations on obtaining your law degree. As always, once you set your mind on something, you let nothing stand in your way. The whole family is so very proud of you.
You have always stayed true to you, and for that you have become the amazing young man that you are! Continue to prosper, both in faith, and good deeds, and nothing will stop you! As you move forward and attend the University of Portland , do not forget to call home. You are already missed! Love, Mom, Dad, Vincent and Bullwinkle
Congratulations Precious Jewel! You are doing such sweet and amazing things with your life. You've created such cherished memories for all of us and continue to find ways to truly touch our hearts. We are beyond over the moon proud of you! Stay sweetly fearless! Je taime! Mom & Dad
Tiffany Cerruti
Katelyn Ali Kommer
Katherine Mayhew
Congrats on receiving your high school diploma! We are so proud of you! We are all excited to be a part of your next journey. Always remember. . . the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams! You are our hero. Love, Mom & Dad, Kimberly and Nicholas
Off to the University of San Diego. I will miss your laugh, smile and opinions. It has been a pure joy and pleasure to watch you grow — to see you make those shots in basketball and water polo. Keep shooting for the stars. Forever, Nanna
Wow! We are so very proud of you, Zilla. You have more than fulfilled the Mayhew legacy. We love you! Good Luck quacking like an Oregon Duck! Love, Dad, Mom & Megan
‘Why My Dad Should Be King for a Day,’ Robbie Parker’s 2008 Father’s Day essay Seven years ago, when he was a sixth grader at Diablo View Middle School, Pioneer student reporter and TeenSpeak columnist, Robbie Parker, got his start in journalism by winning the Clayton Pioneer Father’s Day essay contest. In observance of Father’s Day and with our heartfelt affection and admiration, here is Robbie’s first published piece. I think my dad should be Clayton Pioneer’s King for a Day because I sincerely don’t think I thank him enough and I want him to be appreciated for the amazing things he does. He works so hard at his job from 9-5 p.m. every day and sometimes even longer. When he comes home tired as tired can be, he still comes to our baseball games, soccer matches and swim meets to cheer us on. I am currently 11 years old and for the past 10 years, he has worked the night shift. He worked this shift just so he could take care of us during the day. Other than working so hard, his kindness and generosity greatly surpasses any dad I
Robbie Parker, 11 with his dad, Robert Parker on the front page of the June 20, 2008 Clayton Pioneer.
have ever seen. Everyday, he helps our elderly neighbors with their chores such as trash cans and cleaning gutters just to be helpful. In addition, my dad gives me incredible advice that allows me to succeed in anything I do. I can always go to him when I have a problem and he always finds a solution. He has opened my eyes to new things such as woodworking and fishing which I have now come to love. He also teaches me important life skills
such as how to be patient with my little brother, John. Like most six year olds, John wants much attention. Mydad is also a great role model. Not only does he help my mom all the time, he also does all the disgusting and terrible chores such as cleaning the gutters, climbing in the attic and doing gross outside work. My dad always takes care of me when I am sick. He comes in my room every five minutes to check on me and asks if I want anything. He also takes me and my brother to field trips or participates in school functions. My dad is also a great cook and is amazing at barbequing. Once you taste his wonderful hamburgers you feel like you are in heaven. If you think his BBQ is great, you should taste his homemade popcorn. Clayton Pioneer, it would be greatly appreciated if you would make my dad King for a Day because he is not only my dad, my mentor; he is also my best friend. He will always be a king to me. —Robbie Parker
CBCA awards $25,000 in scholarships to Clayton seniors
Photo by Christine Mitchell
CBCA SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS from left, Samuel Albertsen, Alyssa Diquattro, Chandler Wakefield, Casey Mitchell, Robbie Parker, Jared Suasin.
Continuing its policy of giving back to the community, the Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA) announced the winners of the 2015 CBCA scholarship grants. The winners, all students at CVCHS are; Samuel Albertsen who will attend Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo and major in Mechanical Engineering, Alyssa Diquattro who is going on to Texas Christian University and will major in Biology, Robert Parker is headed for Chico State to major in Computer Science, Chandler Wakefield has chosen San Diego State and Biochemistry as his major, Casey Mitchell and Jared Suasin will both attend UC San Diego, she will major in Biology and he in Computer Engineering. “The CBCA is proud to honor such a group of ambitious and talented young people,” says Bob Steiner, CBCA scholarship committee chair. “The future is in good hands.”
Grandpa Bob, Tamara, and the rest of the clan.
Summer is coming, be ready! our pantry is stocked with staples to add to your fresh farmers market foods
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Page 10
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
Sports
High school season draws to a close BOYS GOLF De La Salle won the NCS Division I qualifier and the Tournament of Champions before the Spartans were seventh at the NorCal Championships and failing to make the field for the State finals.
500 freestyle. Dominic Dalpiaz of De La Salle (100 free) and the Spartans 400 freestyle relay were also runners-up.
JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
The 2014-15 high school sports season drew to a close last weekend with the final North Coast Section and state meet titles handed out. It was a historic year for swimming and diving with the first state championships won by a local team and a school year that created thousands of memories for athletes, coaches and fans. SWIMMING & DIVING Northgate became the first state championship team from the Diablo Valley Athletic League since the local league’s current setup in 2008. The Bronco boys repeated as North Coast Section Swimming and Diving Champions last month at Concord Community Pool and then went on to make history in Clovis as the first CIF State champion. The Broncos actually won the state meet by nearly twice the margin (59 points) they had over San Ramon Valley at NCS (32). De La Salle was third at section and fourth at the state meet. California became the last state in the nation to hold a state championship in the sport. Northgate’s 200 medley relay team of Mason Tittle, Stanley Wu, Max Bottene and Calvin Kirkpatrick opened the meet with a victory and their 400 free relay quartet with Eric VanBrocklin replacing Wu won the meet’s final event to cap the Broncos historic accomplishment. Carondelet’s Madelyn Murphy won an individual title with a victory in the 100 meter butterfly, reversing her loss to Acalanes’ Brittany Usinger at NCS. VanBrocklin was just edged in the
TRACK & FIELD Senior Kahlil McKenzie of CVCHS was 10th in the shot put at last weekend’s CIF State Meet in Clovis. McKenzie is headed to University of Tennessee to begin his collegiate football career this fall. His Eagles teammates who also made it to the NCS Meet of Champions were Brianne Newell in the long and triple jumps, Jordan Velasquez in the 100 and Nathan Jaggers in the long jump. Carondelet’s Christina Chenault helped the Cougars to eighth place at the State Meet with third place in the triple jump and fourth in the long jump. The Cougars 1600 meter relay was third BASEBALL College Park’s Joe DeMers, named the state player of the year, pitched the final six innings as College Park won the NCS Division I baseball championship last Saturday 5-2 over defending champ De La Salle at St. Mary’s College. The Falcons were DII titlists in 2014 after College Park had lost in the semi-finals of the tournament when DeMers was a freshman and sophomore. DeMers and his team lost a nonleague showdown with De La Salle southpaw Justin Hooper in a recent pitching duel at Cal Berkeley on sold out Evans Diamond, handing DeMers his first loss since last March. The highly-anticipated rematch in the NCS finals didn’t take place with Hooper sitting out the game due to soreness in his left elbow. The finals took place two days
LACROSSE De La Salle reached the semi-finals of the Division I boys playoffs after wins over Rancho Cotate and Oak Ridge. The Spartans lost to Amador Valley of the EBAL 12-2 in the semis. San Ramon then won the title 9-5 over crosstown rival Monte Vista. SOFTBALL Concord teams have been a major factor in NCS Division II softball this decade but this year Concord High lost its opener and Carondelet fell in the quarterfinals. Alhambra won its second straight title in the finals over Redwood. BOYS VOLLEYBALL De La Salle lost the NCS Division I title match in four sets to No. 1 seed Der Valley. The Spartans were then eliminated in the opening game of the Northern California championships by Whitney. Photo by Phil Walton courtesy SportStars magazine
Joe DeMers capped his incredible high school baseball career pitching the College Park Falcons to the North Coast Section Division I championship last Saturday over defending champion De La Salle. DeMers played 110 games over his four years, winning the DVAL MVP award every season while compiling a pitching record of 44-5 and batting .382. DeMers was named 2015 California high school player of the year while having a 13-1 pitching record and .447 batting average. He’s an infielder when not pitching.
before the Major League Baseball draft where both DeMers and Hooper are looked at as high draft picks. College Park catcher Willie MacIver and
DeMers shared DVAL MVP honors. It’s been stated that the Falcons have up to 10 college baseball prospects on their team.
FOOTBALL De La Salle football will play a Texas team for the first time Aug. 29 when the defending state champion Spartans travel to Mansfield, Texas to face Trinity, a perennial power from the Lone Star State. DLS coach Justin Alumbaugh says, “When you talk about high school football, Texas naturally comes up. It’s exciting. We’ve seen film on them. They’re really good and really physical. We’re really excited about going out there.”
Pair of Diablo FC U15 teams State Cup finalists
Photos courtesy Diablo FC
DIABLO FC 99 GIRLS BEAT SOME STIFF UNDER 15 COMPETITION on the way to becoming CYSA State Cup finalists. Coach Zach Sullivan’s team captured its group with a 2-1 win over CV Crossfire (#3 in NorCal), 4-0 shutout of West Coast (#15) and a 2-2 draw vs. Santa Clara Sporting Green (#1). In the semi-finals Diablo FC posted a 3-0 victory over rival California Magic (#6) to advance to the final vs. Santa Clara Sporting. This time the top seed beat Diablo FC 2-0 as the local girls were denied a chance to win a repeat State Cup title. The Diablo FC 99 and 98 girls went to the Utah Avalanche Invitational Showcase last weekend. Diablo FC 99 team includes, front row from left, Payton Mannie, Katie Christman, Amanda Zodikoff, Emily Kaleal, Marianna Giovannetti, [player unidentified], Carly Agostino; top row, coach Zach Sullivan, Kylie Schneider, [player unidentified], Janet Lopez, Kaytlin Brinkman, Susanna Garcia, Cassie Bizicki, Sam Gotz, Santana Merryfield and Soso Jones.
A HEARTBREAKING LOSS IN THE PENALTY KICK SHOOTOUT DENIED DIABLO FC 99 boys the NorCal Premier State U15 Cup gold championship recently at Consumes River College near Elk Grove. The team, coached by St. Mary’s College assistant coach Charlie Campbell, earlier this season won the Mustang Boys Stampede Gold Tournament. Diablo FC 99 beat Placer United Black 4-1 in the quarter-finals and Winchester SC Guerrero 3-1 in semis to setup the finale with ACC Mavericks. The teams battled through 80 minutes of regulation time and two overtime periods still in a scoreless draw. ACC then took a tense shootout tiebreaker 5-4. The team includes, front row from left, Ross Gruen, Corey Alford, Fabian Munoz, Ryan Roo, Pedro Hernandez, Armando Fajardo, Roman Fernandez; back row, Diablo FC director of coaching Brian Voltattorni, Lucas Rodriguez, Ahmed Alani, Ryan Redman, Eric Ochoa, John Fuentes, Jason Stockwell, Leonardo Villarama, Tyler Hanson, Jonathan Gonzalez and Hugo Ramirez.
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Page 11
Sports of each quarter. She’s spent her past nine summers taking part in rec swimming with Dana Hills and Vista Diablo. On campus, Rohrbach was part of the French Club, Senior Women, school newspaper staff and the Public Service Academy. A school mate says, “Her sweet spirit shines in everything that she does.” Recently, she was named one of the Public Service Academy department award winners. She plays club polo for Academy. When she is not in the pool, Kayleigh likes to spend time with friends and do yoga. CVCHS student journalist Celine Herrera contributed to this Spotlight.
Athlete Spotlight Kayleigh Rohrbach Grade: Senior KAYLEIGH ROHRBACH
Sports: Swimming, Water Polo School: CVCHS Kayleigh Rohrbach will be enrolling in UC Davis this fall to major in biology and start another chapter of her life. But she will be able to look back over the past four years at Clayton Valley Charter High School with a feeling of accomplishment
as a student athlete. She finished her sports duties at the Concord school this spring on the Eagles swimming and diving team, taking second team all-Diablo Valley Athletic League honors. She was first-team allleague last fall on the CVCHS water polo team. Rohrbach captained both teams. A year ago she was voted most improved on the two squads. A long-distance freestyle swimmer, she was the sprinter on the polo team, racing to get the ball at the beginning
The Clayton Pioneer congratulates Joe 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.
Ipsen finishes 6th with partner at World Series Clayton’s Kristian Ipsen and his new synchro partner Sam Dorman finished sixth in the men’s three-meter at the FINA Diving World Series in Merida, Mexico last month. The duo will be representing America in the event at next month’s World Championships in Russia where they hope to improve on their showing in Mexico. In the World Series meet Dorman and Ipsen finished with 401.28 points, including three optional dives that scored more than 75 points. The American pair was 16.35 points behind bronze medalists Patrick Hausding and Stephan Feck of Germany. China’s He Chong and He Chao took the gold with 436.53 points. The competition in Mexico was the final stop of the 2015 FINA Diving World Series.
Ipsen will also be competing individually in the one-meter springboard in Russia. He just missed a third USA team berth in the 3M springboard. The local diver led after the 3M quarter-finals and semi-finals but missed his next-to-last dive and ultimately fell to fourth place with the top two qualifying for Russia. The FINA World Championships will be the first opportunity for countries to secure berths for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio. Diving at the World Championships is July 25Aug. 2. After the summer international competition Ipsen will return to Stanford for his final classes to graduate by the end of the year. He then intends to concentrate his training toward next year’s US Olympic Trials in Indianapolis.
Two senior standouts named Clayton Valley inducts 2014 athletes of year for CVCHS class of Hall of Famers The 2015 Clayton Valley High Athletic Hall of Fame class inducted last month at Centre Concord included, front row from left, Matt Mazzei, Paul Belluomini, John Mahloch, coach Gary Gardner; back row, Lindsay Kiyama, Tom McCarty, Tiffany Edwards Panfili, Lori Hokerson, Derrell Hoschouer and Erin Dobratz McGregor. Photo by Rochelle Douglass
Congratulations
John Mahloch on your well deserved induction into the Scott Anderson photos
Hailey Pascoe (23) and Jon Allen (15) were named athletes of the year at Clayton Valley Charter High School. Pascoe earned the Diablo Valley Athletic League most valuable player award for the second season as she helped the Lady Eagles to their third straight league championship while Allen was first-team all-DVAL in both basketball and baseball. JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Valley Charter High School honored Hailey Pascoe and Jon Allen as its 2014-15 athletes of the year while dozens of Eagles earned allDiablo Valley Athletic League laurels for the spring sports season. Pascoe capped her recordbreaking career at the Concord school as the unanimous girls athlete of the year selection. She was a four-year varsity basketball player who was league MVP as a junior and senior and leaves with the school single season and career scoring records headed to Division I Lehigh College in the fall. She earned all-DVAL honors every season of her high school career. The Lady Eagles won their third consecutive DVAL championship this year and advanced to the NorCal tournament for the fourth time in five seasons. Pascoe played three years of varsity volleyball but skipped the fall sport this year to prepare for her senior basketball season. Allen was first-team allDVAL in both basketball and baseball this year. He was basketball league MVP as a junior.
He was an all-league honoree three years in basketball and twice in baseball. CVCHS athletes getting allDVAL honors: LACROSSE Boys: First team – Brent Tourea; Second team – Mitchell Longman; Honorable mention – Dakota Harman, Ben Coppa Girls: Second team – Page Anderson; Honorable mention – Melissa Cox, Celine Jusuf. BOYS GOLF First team – Daniel Schaefer ; Second team – Tyler Blazer BOYS TENNIS First team – Dylan Kies, Matt Osterkamp; Second team – Daniel Castro, Donovan Hunter, Ben Smith; Honorable mention – Paul Marquez, Spencer Smith BOYS VOLLEYBALL Second team – Zach Hanson; Honorable mention – Chris Nelly, Frank Stringer SWIMMING & DIVING Boys: Second team – Robbie Parker, Cameron Brandt, Ryan Levy, Anthony Vines; Honorable mention – Niklas Weigelt, Jerron Miller Girls: Second team – Erica
Clayton Valley Hall of Fame
DuLong, Lily Stagner, Kristen DeLong, Kayleigh Rohrbach, Kayla Conger, Abbie Kubota, Julia Wickware, Brooke Johnson BASEBALL First team – Jack O’Leary, Allen, Ryan Milligan; Second team – Jason Kreske, Scott Meylan, Connor Braun; Honorable mention – Robert Towne, Billy Ralston, James Biles SOFTBALL Boys: First team – Kimiko Zapanta, Sophie Wheeler; Second team – Tyce Miranda, Cheyenne Harman; Honorable mention – Nikki Mason, Cami Cohen TRACK & FIELD Boys: First team – Jordan Velasquez, Kahlil McKenzie, Jeff Williams; Second team – Nathan Jaggers, Aiden Jackman, Mykelle D’Tiole, DJ Newell, Alex King, Javi Balderamos; Honorable mention – Dylan White Girls: First team – Tisi Alatini, Amber Booth, Brianne Newell, Sophia Villa, Katie Rangel, Diwa Esco, Jessica Johnson; Second team – Jade Davis, Claire Olsen, Ericka Schaefer, Kiersten Fouts; Honorable mention – Kelly Osterkamp
John with his longtime coach Mike Rittenhouse
• • • •
4-Year Varsity Basketball Starter 1986 Athlete of the Year 1986 DVAL Player of the Year Many current school records including Most Points in Career 1687 and Most Free Throws in a Career 407 With Love and Admiration Ed, Stephanie, Dominic, Nicholas and your Ed's Mudville Grill Family
Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
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MDSA Legends play up and still take second MDSA Legends Elite under 15 girls wrapped up the Elite season with a second place finish at Concord Cup XXII. Despite playing one year up against U16 teams at Concord Cup, Legends registered three shutouts in the bracket stage. In the championship match against its sister team, U16 MDSA United, an intense battle from start to finish ended with the older team prevailing 2-1. MDSA Legends include, front row from left, Skylar Hellstrom, Isabella Arredondo, Carlie Beeson; middle row, Sydney Gois, Mariana Izon, Andrea Lopez, Angie Dubnoff ; back row, coach Ruben Izon, Rylie Bowerbank, Lauren Kipley, Carly Lynch, Kasey DeMaria, Ciara Woods, Kaitlyn Chiok, Christina Montoya and coach Roberto Lopez.
MDSA U10 Legends runners up at Davis World Cup MDSA Legends under 10 girls learned what it’s like to experience mixed results at the Davis World Cup. The local team opened the Davis tournament with a 5-2 victory over Concord United Lightning, reversing the result from the teams’ game a week before at Concord Cup XXII. Legends defeated Davis Thunder 2-1 in their second game before getting two more victories, placing them in the World Cup finals. In the championship game they met up with Davis Thunder again and this time the host team blanked Legends 2-0. The Legends include, from left, coach Christine Geddes-Sinclaire, Zoe Lahanas, Mipo Okeowo, Makenna Brady, Parker Stephens, Cassidy Baker, Brooke Rickenbacher, Sarah Andrews, Alena King, Sophia Sinclaire, Madison York and coach Cory Brady.
Is DeBoer the right man to lead San Jose Sharks back to playoffs? TYLER LEHMAN SPORTS TALK
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After parting ways with coach Todd McLellan in April, the San Jose Sharks took over five weeks before hiring Peter DeBoer to be their new coach. McLellan left after seven years as coach of the Sharks. He passed Darryl Sutter for the most games coached in Sharks history, amassing a total of 540 games in charge. McLellan also led the Sharks to their first Presidents’ Trophy during the 2008-09 season. Despite the Sharks great success during the regular season under McLellan, the team struggled mightily in the playoffs as they have always done since their founding in 1991.
DeBoer, who has six-plus years of head coach experience in the NHL, is seen as the man who can get the Sharks out of their playoff rut of losing consistently in the first and second rounds. He coached the Florida Panthers for three years and then helmed the New Jersey Devils for three-plus years. His Devils reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 2012 but lost to the Los Angeles Kings in six games. San Jose general manager Doug Wilson conducted a thorough coaching search and is convinced that DeBoer is the best available option of all coaching candidates. Wilson looked at 21 candidates in total with DeBoer one of three finalists. The Sharks missed the playoffs this year for the first time since the 2002-03 season, so the coaching change is a means of
getting the franchise back on track. While DeBoer did make the 2012 finals with the Devils that was the only time he has led a team into the playoffs. His other full five seasons as a head coach ended with his team on the outside looking in. Wilson expressed confidence that DeBoer has grown as a coach, and learned from his past mistakes as the coach of the Devils and the Panthers. DeBoer is taking over a Sharks roster that has talent. Despite missing the playoffs last year, the Sharks still had a winningrecord of 40-33-9. It wasn’t a spectacular season, but it certainly wasn’t awful either. The team has veteran stars Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau. Thornton clashed with management last year, but he has too much experience and talent to not
have a bounce back season. Veterans bring experience to a long hockey season, but it is time for young guns like Logan Couture and Tomas Hertl to step up and become the new faces of the Sharks franchise. Making the playoffs almost every year is great, but San Jose Sharks fans are sick of losing in the early rounds of the post-season. DeBoer is tasked with taking the Sharks to the finals and winning that elusive Stanley Cup. It will be interesting to see how he manages the Sharks players and what line alignments he will use in the upcoming season. Tyler Lehman is a junior at San Francisco State University and a 2012 CVHS graduate. He is majoring in print/online journalism and wants to be a sports writer. Email your comments or questions to tyler@claytonpioneer.com.
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Sports Shorts SUMMER PROGRAMS REGISTRATION STILL OPEN AT ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES Summer programs for youth basketball, youth volleyball and tee ball plus adult volleyball and softball are now open in Clayton offered by All Out Sports Leagues. For complete information on All Out Sports programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.
JR. EAGLES YOUTH FOOTBALL, CHEER ORGANIZATION SIGNUPS THIS SUNDAY Clayton Valley youth football and cheer teams are now known as CVAA Jr. Eagles. Online registration for the upcoming fall football and cheer teams is open with in-person registration on Sundays June 7 and July 12 at Mountain Mike’s Pizza on Clayton Rd. 12 -3 p.m. Visit their new website cvaajreagles.com for more information.
20TH RED DEVIL CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT JUNE 26 Registration is open for the 20th annual Red Devil Classic golf tournament scheduled for Friday, June 26, at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Contact Lou Adamo louadamo@gmail.com or Ralph Vallis rv76667@aol.com to become a sponsor, play golf or attend the dinner. The event benefits Mt. Diablo High School student athletes and promotes academic success.
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UGLY EAGLES BASKETBALL CAMP STARTS MONDAY Head coach Eric Bamberger and his Clayton Valley Charter High School coaches and players are offering a pair of Ugly Eagles Basketball Camps this month for boys and girls. The two sessions for incoming third through ninth graders are June 15-19 and 22-26. Sessions run from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. with the gym open an hour before and after the formal camp for pickup play. The camp includes offensive and defensive instruction and games. For more information and to register contact coach Bamberger by phone (925) 726-9999 or email uglyeaglebballcamp@att.net.
FOOTBALL OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION SEEK NEW 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 two new member evening sessions a month starting in mid-June. For more information visit ccfoa.com.
MDSA FALL LEAGUE SIGNUPS ACCEPTED THROUGH THIS SUNDAY Boys and girls 4-18 years of age wanting to play in Mt. Diablo Soccer Association fall league can register for guaranteed placement until this Sunday. After that date players will be placed on wait-list. Fall league play begins in August when all registration closes. Families are requested to sign up for volunteer duties to help the organization offer its AYSO program. For information visit mdsoccer.org.
CLAYTON VALLEY FOOTBALL CAMP NEXT WEEK State championship finalist and Northern California Bowl winner Clayton Valley Charter High School hosts its Future Champions Youth Football Camp next Tuesday through Friday, June 16-19, from 5-8 p.m. at the Concord school 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 and team competition with fundamentals and techniques of football taught by the CVCHS staff. To register, email coach.dmngz@gmail.com or call (925) 726-1503 for an application. BASEBALL CAMP SESSIONS AT
CV START NEXT WEEK
Clayton Valley Charter High School coach Casey Coakley has put together a staff of current CVCHS coaches and players as well as Eagle alumni to provide baseball instruction to youngsters 6-13 years of age at the school. The summer baseball camp will consist of instruction in the fundamentals of hitting, throwing, fielding, catch play and other aspects of the game. Summer baseball school sessions will be held starting next week, June 15-18, and continuing June 2225 and June 29-July 2. Each daily session runs 9 a.m.–12 noon. Fee is $120 for one session with discounts for multiple weeks. To reserve a baseball school spot email casey.coakley@claytonvalley.org.
DIABLO FC U15-U18 TEAMS HOLDING OPEN TRAININGS Diablo FC is holding open training sessions for boys and girls U15-U18 players for the 2015-16 season. The club’s U15-U18 premier teams all compete in the highest level of Nor Cal Premier in the National Premier League. Open training sessions are an opportunity for players to train with teams and be evaluated for initial player placement. For more information and schedule visit diablofc.org.
June 12, 2015
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Sports
Spring Cleaning?
Alumnus AJ Kuhle takes over De La Salle basketball from legendary coach Allocco De La Salle High School named AJ Kuhle, a 2000 graduate of the Concord school, head basketball coach last week following the surprise announcement last month that Frank Allocco was leaving his post of 18 years to join the University of San Francisco staff. Since 2007, Kuhle has been an assistant coach at the University
of Denver. Prior to that he was an assistant coach at his alma mater, Air Force Academy from 2004-07 and junior varsity head coach at the Academy in 2004-05. Kuhle becomes the fifth head coach of the Spartan basketball program. He has worked under successful head coaches Joe Scott, Jeff Bzdelik and Chris Mooney. According to De La Salle ath-
Clayton Valley Little League Cheetahs take playoff title
ALLOCCO HEADS OFF TO COLLEGE
One of the nation’s most successful high school basketball coaches, Allocco was named associate head coach at USF in May,
catching most observers off guard. Allocco had spent the last 18 years as head coach at De La Salle and before that six years at Northgate. He coached Kuhle early in his DLS reign. He won 17 league championships and two Division I state championships at De La Salle. Allocco amassed a record of 65499 as head coach at Northgate (167-28) and De La Salle (487-71). He guided three teams to state championships and reached the 600-win plateau faster than any coach in state history. His career winning percentage of .868 ranks second all-time in the state and he is the only prep coach in California history to win a state title at two different schools. “Great athletic traditions are something that has always resonated with me,” said Allocco. “It’s what drew me to Notre Dame [as an undergrad football and basketball player] and inspired me to build winning programs at Northgate and De La Salle. The incredible tradition that echoes through the rafters and permeates throughout the USF basketball program has drawn me to the Hilltop. I’m excited for the opportunity to work with Coach [Rex] Walters in creating a culture of excellence that will carry that tradition to new heights and bring honor to the University and Bay Area.” Allocco flirted with college positions twice before. In 2000 he briefly thought he was getting the Saint Mary’s College head coaching job in Moraga and he also looked into the opening at St. John’s in New York City a few years ago.
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letic director Leo Lopoz, Kuhle defined what it means to be a student athlete in both high school at De La Salle and at the Air Force Academy. “His Division 1 coaching experience along with his work ethic and integrity make him a perfect fit for our program and I am confident he will make a major impact both within and outside of the De La Salle community,” said Lopoz. “AJ exemplifies everything that we are looking for in our next coach; his personal values and beliefs reflect those of our school and we believe he will further build upon a successful tradition for our basketball program.” Kuhle said, “My family and I are very excited to be joining De La Salle. I am very impressed by the leadership in place, from President Mark DeMarco, Principal Brother Robert Wickman and Athletic Director Leo Lopoz to the entire athletics administration and coaches. I am honored to have been selected and look forward to taking on all of the challenges ahead. “Not only is Concord home for me, but the tradition and success that the Spartans have built makes this an incredible opportunity. I know about the great home court advantage in the Spartan Gym, which is a testament to the students, fans and the 6th Man. There’s an unbelievable commitment to excellence athletically and academically at De La Salle.”
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Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Little league
THE CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE CHEETAHS used three five-run innings to roll up a 19-7 win over the Walnut Creek LL champion Purple Panthers to capture the mini minor inter-league softball title at the end of May in Walnut Creek. The Cheetahs defeated league rivals Mustangs and then the Hornets in a walk-off 6-5 barnburner to earn a spot in the championship game. The mini minors are for girls 5-8 years of age. The Cheetahs were, front row from left, Viviann Canclini, Gabriella Guevara, Presley Barnes, Peyton Glaves, Rhyan Ayala, Tori Malsom; middle row, Ruby Bartholomew, Paige Ferrari, Addison Baxter, Caitlyn Hoshida, Alyssa Teixeira; back row, manager Kevin Baxter, coach Jesse Glaves and coach Jacob Malsom.
Page 13
Get updated on Clayton Valley Village Meet the Volunteer Team – Share Ideas – Everyone Welcome
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THE CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL instrumental music students played “Louie Louie” on request from the Clayton Valley Garden Club during their annual plant sale. The school’s Music-A-Thon coincided with the plant sale. Club members and plant sale patrons contributed to the band’s fundraising efforts during the performance.
is looking for docents for the Galindo Home and Gardens. The home is open every Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. at 1721 Amador St., Concord. Docents have a good time and meet many interesting people from all around the Bay Area and beyond. Volunteer with people who share the same interest in Concord’s rich history. For more information, go to concordhistorical.org or call Gloria Matson at (925) 6855658.
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Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Fashion Show raises funds for charity The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club hosted their 10th Annual Festival of Tables and Fashion luncheon on May 9 at Concord United Methodist Church. The attendees were waited on by husbands, sons and friends of club members handsomely outfitted in black slacks, white shirts and black bow ties. Proceeds from the event benefit local charities and scholarships.
THE WOMAN’S CLUB MODELS for this year’s fashion show were Carmen Williams, Deanna Barkley, Maria Buckmaster, Carole Gardner, Dian Heisey, Patty Parodi and Linda Pasini.
Donation checks presented to Community Organizations The CVWC held their annual donations luncheon on May 12 at the Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Concord. Checks were presented to Court Appointed Special Advocates, Independent Living Skills Program of Contra Costa County, Monument Crisis Center and Winter Nights Rotating Family Shelter as well as the Clayton Community Library, Clayton Historical Society and Concord Historical Society. Each year, the club also provides a scholarship to a Diablo Valley College female student with a financial need, excellent grades, community involvement and leadership skills who is transferring to a four-year university to pursue a degree. The 2015 scholarship recipient is Alyssa Clark who has a passionate interest in environmental advocacy and will pursue a degree at the University of California, Davis in international agricultural development. She hopes to join the Peace Corps after graduation. Club members give time, money and items to various organizations throughout the year such as Read Across America, Prevent Blindness, Blue Star Moms, Heifer International and Pennies for Pines.
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CLAYTON VALLEY GARDEN CLUB’S 2015 PLANT SALE MAY 9 Despite the fourth drought year, the Clayton Valley Garden Club’s net profit from this year’s plant sale on May 9 at Endeavor Hall in Clayton was the highest ever. The club sold hundreds of varieties of plants, many that were drought tolerant or water wise. They also sold beautiful color bowls, painted rocks, garden art, bird houses for Mother’s Day gifts, gently used tables and chairs, books and pots. Plants were all locally grown, nurtured by club members beginning earlier in the year. Leftover plants were delivered to Markham Arboretum the following week. The garden club’s annual plant sale will be on the Saturday of Mother’s Day weekend next year. The club meets at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month, February through November, at Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. For more information, go to claytonvalleygardenclub.org.
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CVWS DONATION RECIPIENTS Gregg Chavaria, CASA; Charlie Mead, CASA; Don Graves, Independent Living Skills Program; Sandra Scherer, Monument Crisis Center; Judy Stillman, Winter Nights Rotating Family Shelter; Karen Hansen-Smith, Clayton Community Library; JoAnn Caspar, Clayton Historical Society and Carol Longshore, Concord Historical Society. Alyssa Clark (seated) was awarded the 2015 scholarship.
The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club meets at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of the month, except July and August, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. Guests are welcome to attend meetings and social events. For more information, go to claytonvalleywomansclub.org or call 672-7947.
Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
Clayton teen who survived cancer opens Relay PAT MIDDENDORF Special to the Pioneer
Clayton resident Kate Amos was just 10-years-old when she began having random, mysterious fevers. After a few days they would clear up and she would be just fine. She went to different doctors and always came back without a diagnosis or any known cause for her fevers. But then her parents took her to Children’s Hospital in Oakland and after taking a bone marrow sample they came up with a diagnosis, and she heard the words for the first time: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), a childhood cancer of the blood and bone marrow
KATE AMOS
which gets worse quickly if it is not treated. Within two days Kate was in
the hospital receiving her first chemo treatment. Kate turned 11 that next January and began rounds of chemo that would leave her in the hospital from a couple of days to a couple of weeks. She was still 11 when she collapsed while visiting her grandparents. Her father rushed her to Children’s Hospital, where several days later she had a major seizure. She doesn’t remember anything but later heard that a “Code Blue” was called that day. That’s a code that puts the entire hospital on alert and later it was discovered that she had a blood clot in her brain. This began the lowest point of her journey with cancer. Her mother Karen Amos
recalls the horrible memories. “We watched as Kate atrophied into a very, very thin child. No hair. No spark in her eyes. She was the epitome of a cancer patient.” She missed half her fifth grade year and a fourth of her sixth grade year. She had her last treatment in April of 2013, a date that her family celebrates like they would any other family holiday. She continued her check-ups first every month, then every two months, and now every three months. Now a sparkling 15-year-old at Clayton Valley Charter High School, Kate has the honor of being the keynote speaker at the annual Clayton Relay for Life
Clayton Relay for Life Fundraising Events June 17 Brooklyn Heros for a Cure
June 27 Baking for a Cure
Canesa’s Brooklyn Heros will donate 20 percent of all sales to Relay For Life Clayton. Must present flier when order; download at relayforlife.org/claytonca. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 6026 Main St., Clayton. Contact Lorraine at lorraine.henney@comcast.net.
Bake sale. 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Starbucks, Clayton Station. Contact Michelle Treshler at mrtres94@aol.com or Gigi Pishny at gmpishny@mmm.com to donate baked goods.
Opening Ceremonies Aug. 15. “I can joke about cancer now, I have to so I don’t live in fear …the alternative would be to freak out. At first I was mad about having cancer. I kept asking, ‘Why me? Why now?’ I was so mad! But now when I ask, ‘Why me?’ it’s because I am curious, it’s because I want to know the scientific answer to, “Why me?” The ninth grader is part of the CVCHS Medical Academy. She wants to become a pediatric oncologist so that she can interact with the young patients and because she knows she can relate to them. She wants to do everything she can to study, research and help eradicate cancer for kids.
Tahoe Joe’s will donate 45% of the cost of the dinner ticket to Relay For Life Clayton. 999 Contra Costa Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Tickets are $22 and must be purchased ahead of time through Kathy or Richard Evon at rkevon@astound.net.
Mary’s Pizza Shack will donate 20 percent of all sales to Relay For Life Clayton. Must present flier when order; download at relayforlife.org/claytonca. 2246 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek. Contact Lorraine at lorraine.henney@comcast.net.
Tipping a hat to the forefathers of modern meteorology WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS With Father’s Day approaching it’s natural to celebrate with or pay homage to dad. Taking a slightly different approach, fatherhood can be more loosely defined to include those who strongly influenced mankind in a more general way. Let’s look at some of the early “fathers of meteorology.” The scientific approach to meteorology, or atmospheric science, began in the 17th century with the discovery and development of weather measuring instruments. Galileo’s invention of the thermometer inaugurated this era. Later that century meteorological knowledge increased with Torricelli’s invention of the barometer. Blaise Pascal made a pivotal contribution to the science of meteorology when he carried a
barometer up and down several flights of stairs to show that atmospheric pressure was linked to altitude. In the late 17th and early 18th centuries a group of scientists associated with England’s Royal Society combined data measured with instruments invented by Galileo and Torricelli with deductive reasoning. They developed the physical laws and mathematical equations that govern atmospheric motions. We are all familiar with Isaac Newton’s theory of gravity and study of mathematical techniques that describe motions. Other Royal Society members of this era whose works benefited the science of meteorology include Robert Boyle and Robert Hooke. Boyle’s gas law transformed science. Through experimentation he observed the relationship between pressure and volume. Boyles Law states that under conditions of constant temperature and mass, when the volume of a container is increased, the pres-
Italian scientist Galileo Galilei, 1864-1842.
sure decreases. He derived mathematical equations that are still used in meteorological models. Hooke cleverly combined barometric pressure readings with weather observations. He was among the first scientists to understand the importance of instrument calibration with regard to data integrity. Fast-forward to the late 18th century in America and we’ll find that two of our founding fathers could also be considered fathers
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of meteorology, Ben Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. Franklin’s most famous foray into meteorology was his lightning experiment. However, he was also an ardent weather observer. Noting that North American storms tend to move from west to east, he predicted that with the proper observations a storm’s course could be plotted. Jefferson also realized the value of weather observation networks. His daily weather log spanned from 1776 to 1818, including observations of temperature, wind and rainfall. Jefferson established a network of observers in every county of Virginia. In the early 19th century meteorologists understood the value of combining weather observations with forecasting, but a major hurdle needed resolution. There was no quick way to transfer data from one location to another. In other words, bad weather would arrive before any data could be used to forecast the event. That all changed with Samuel Morse’s invention of the telegraph in the mid- 19th century. Combined with the data coding method he devised, it became possible to instantaneously send weather information from one station to another, or to a central receiving station. Soon telegraphed weather data was being delivered to government agencies, making it possible to generate weather maps and disseminate forecasts. Morse didn’t invent the telegraph specifically to advance the science of meteorology, so he could be considered a stepfather of meteorology. These are a few of the fathers (and stepfathers) of the science of meteorology. They paved the way for the development of the weather observation networks and forecast models used today. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com
For more stories from Clayton cancer survivors please visit the Clayton Relay for Life Facebook page at facebook.com/RFLClaytonCA.
Dressing dandy through the decades
June 29 Dine and Donate
June 25 Tahoe Joe’s
Relay for Life seems to means a lot to both Kate and her mother. Karen explains that to her it’s a community of people coming together to help others either survive or avoid experiencing a cancer journey. “No journey is lived in isolation,” she says. Kate and her friends also feel the need to help fight back and have formed a team called the Clayton Valley Cancer Crushers and are excited about this year’s event and hope that the entire city will join them.
SUSAN SAPPINGTON
CLOTHES-UP How many times have you read a guide on “What to wear in your 30s, 40s, 50s…? Dazed and confused? In this article, I hope to clear some of the confusion on how to dress for our age. I would like to put a different spin on that and have you consider your lifestyle and what stage you are in your personal fashion evolution. There is no right or wrong way to dress in each decade. We all age very differently and ultimately our lifestyles, energy and personal identity are ways we create our individual fashion. However, there are some overarching phases we go through that deeply influence our wardrobe needs and our clothing choices. IN YOUR 30S This is your time to be bold, explore fashion and develop your personal style. There really are no boundaries. Everything, including short, very fitted silhouettes to vivid prints and interesting textures are yours for the taking. Your 30s are the time to try it all. Enjoy wearable art pieces, and large prints with confidence. Printed jeans are trending. Mix texture and print. Show off your beautiful skin in a bare-backed dress. Be bold. IN YOUR 40S Flexibility and versatility are both key here. Chances are, you are balancing a busy family schedule and work life. Please do not let that keep you from looking stylish. Invest in classic styles in neutral colors. You are more than likely dressing on the run, so create interest with a vibrant scarf, colorful or metallic show and/or textured handbag. Purchase that ultimate shawl and little black dress. Those are a MUST for everyone’s closet. Olive is the neutral this season. Purchase an olive jacket that will be your go-to jacket which can be worn with dresses, slacks, jeans, and even skirts. Add bold stripes to jazz up your classic pieces under your Army jacket (remember the inside/outside line concept from former articles). Be flexible and versatile.
IN YOUR 50S Felling sexy and beautiful is what your 50s is all about. At this point, your kids are growing up and your social life is starting to return. This is an exciting time of your life. It’s time to indulge yourself while looking and feeling sexy. Find a new edge to your look. By this time, you understand your style and know how to show off your best features. Invest in pieces that do just that. Investing in a well-fitted flattering leather jacket is a MUST in your 50s. A soft taupe brown color flatters so many skin tones. This is the time for you to have fun with fashion. Buy beautifully designed pieces that can be worn in a multitude of ways. While you are investing in your wardrobe, do NOT overlook the allimportant goodies underneath that can make or break your look. Your undergarments are the key factor that will get the “girls” looking great in all your clothes. The right shape-wear is also a very important addition to your wardrobe. Be sexy AND beautiful. IN YOUR 60S Feel confident in your 60s. Your style is now well defined and you know which features are holding up and which need to be featured. Invest in quality pieces that make the most of your assets. Go for the soft fabrics that move with your body. Balance the proportions of your top with your bottom by wearing flowing tops and fitted bottoms. Invest in a statement jacket that will go with a basic pant or skirt. Update your dresses periodically, so you have something that you feel beautiful and confident in when a special occasion arises unexpectedly. Remember, good undergarments continue to be a must. Show off those legs. You know you still have it going on. Be confident. How exciting to know that we can look and feel beautiful throughout the stages of our lives. I would not have believed that I would be dressing better in my 50s than at any other time in my life. “I think women in America are so hung up on comfort, they walk around in clothes like they’re going to the gym…if you dress well, you will get people to sit up and take notice.” – Charla Krupp, author of “How Not to Look Old” Susan Sappington is Area Development Manager and Wardrobe Consultant for EtCetera Styles of New York. Send comments to susan@etcstyles.com
June 12, 2015
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Weighty issues of feeding your dog Dogs love to eat. According to the latest veterinary surveys, more than 40 percent of America’s pet population is overweight. As your loyal friend gains weight and appears to be fat and happy his insides are starting to feel the effects of the extra weight. Soon he will start to become less active and sleep more. As middle age approaches, your dog may start to develop lameness problems and getting around may become difficult. There may also be a greater likelihood of diabetes, respiratory and heart problems. A lean dog is a dog that can age gracefully and will enjoy running and other activities well into his senior years. If your dog is overweight he is taking in more calories per day than he needs. To you, his guardian, your dog may look great but that doesn’t mean he isn’t carrying extra weight. Knowing the ideal weight for your dog can be hard to determine. When feeling your dogs ribs there should be a thin layer
DEBBIE DEMELLO
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of fatty tissue covering them. You should be able to feel the ribs without effort. Also if your dog’s appears square shaped with no waistline definition he is probably crossing the line into obesity. There are for typical settings that lead to obesity. Your dog may be a “nibbler.” He nibbles throughout the day and doesn’t really eat much. This pet has a bowl full of food and eats whenever he is hungry. Because the bowl is so full it looks like the dog is barely eating so sometimes scraps from the dinner table go into the bowl and the
dog eventually eats most of the meal. Then the bowl gets filled again. The “nibbler’s” total calories intake is excessive and he gains weight. Then there is the “beggar.” The “beggar” won’t do anything without a treat. This dog has learned that the more noise and fussing he makes the more likely he will be rewarded for this behavior. The owner finally gives in to keep the dog quiet and the dog sees the food as a reward. In effect the owner is training the dog by rewarding his behavior. It turns into a game but the dog’s health may suffer if obesity is the result. Your dog may be the “good dog.” He is such a good dog you never want him to be hungry. This dog becomes overweight because the owner’s sign of affection for their dog has become focused on feeding. Usually everyone in the home is giving a treat to the dog and before you know it the dog has had a lot of treats throughout the day. The owners are loving the dog to death. The owner’s
Hitch and Tallulah are this month’s ARF Stars
method of showing affection should be directed more toward physical activity than feeding. Think fetch not food. Another setting is the “gourmet dog.” The “gourmet dog” just refuses to eat certain foods. This dog has trained his owner to feed him foods like chicken, liver, cookies, ice cream, etc. Although most table scraps are fine to feed, this dog has been given a choice of what he wants to eat and has chosen people food over dog food. The “gourmet dog.” usually overeats because he isn’t getting a proper balance of nutrients plus everything tastes so good there is a reward factor in eating. The solution to this is easy. You choose the meals, not the dog. Next time: how to help your dog lose weight. Debbie DeMello is a dog trainer and owner of Who’s Training Who in Walnut Creek. Contact her at debdemello@aol.com
FREE Adoption fees waived all month long for dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens
TALLULAH
Three-year-old Hitch is an outgoing, fun boy who is easygoing as long as he gets to come along for all of your fun adventures —he would be a great companion for hiking, camping, and other fun outdoorsy activities. Hitch lived with children in a previous home and was very tolerant and friendly. We recommend Hitch take a Basic Manners class where he can learn polite ways of seeking creature comforts in life. He currently weighs 56 pounds. Hitch’s adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor.
Tallulah’s adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor.
Also 3, Tallulah is a beauty with fur as soft as silk. She enjoys being petted and is especially fond of having her back scratched. She’ll be a wonderful companion in her new home! She is suitable for a first time cat guardian.
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) 256-1ARF.
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. The primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process.
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For the first time ever, Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation will waive the adoption fees for all dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens during the month of June. The goal is for every one of them to find a forever home. “In summer, public shelters are overwhelmed with cats and dogs in desperate circumstances with little chance for survival,” says Elena Bicker, ARF’s Executive Director. “Through the help of generous supporters and volunteers, ARF is able to take these death row pets and give them the second chance at a forever home. The more we send home, the more we can rescue.” Meet ARF’s wide selection of precious pets — available online at www.arflife.org, or check them out in person at ARF headquarters in Walnut Creek. All animals are spayed or neutered, micro chipped, and vaccinated. See the website for ARF’s standard adoption criteria. Adoption hours Wed./Thurs, Sat./Sun noon - 6 p.m.; Fri. noon 7 p.m. ARF is located at 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Telephone 925-256-1ARF • 925-9779079 or go to www.arflife.org
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Are you looking to reconnect with your Catholic Faith? St. Bonaventure parish community invites you to six Awakening Faith sessions, beginning Tuesday, June 16, 7:30-9 p.m. in Classroom A2 June 16 June 23 June 30 July 7 July 14 July 28
Spirituality: What’s the Buzz? Who is Jesus? Do We Need the Spirit? Can I Accept God’s Mercy Can Mass Make My Life Meaningful? The Church and Me
All are welcome. No cost. If you have questions, please call Eileen at the parish (925) 672-5800 x2217 or email exploringcatholics@stbonaventure.net
St. Bonaventure Catholic Community 5562 Clayton Road, Concord, CA 94521
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
Protecting your assets without a prenup RICHARD LITTORNO ESTATE PLANNING A prenuptial agreement can be an effective tool for overriding marital property rights and keeping assets in the family. But these agreements have some important disadvantages. For example, in the event of divorce, prenups are vulnerable to challenge on several grounds. For many families, a more palatable alternative is an asset protection trust. Such a trust can protect assets against ex-spouses
as well as other creditors, and it can be set up without the consent, or even knowledge, of the future spouse. The laws regarding division of property in divorce are complex and vary dramatically from state to state. In general, however, spouses retain their “separate property,” which includes property they owned before marriage as well as property received by gift or inheritance during marriage. Marital property, which is subject to division in divorce, generally includes all property acquired during marriage, regardless of how it’s titled. Depending on applicable state law, marital property may even include the appreciation in value of separate property (including the other spouse’s business) during marriage. Also, separate property may
lose that status if it’s commingled with marital property. For example, if you deposit an inheritance in your joint bank account, it will likely be deemed marital property. It may be advisable to take additional steps to protect separate property from potential loss in the event of divorce. The emotional issues involved can make putting a prenup in place difficult. In addition, the requirements for an enforceable prenup make it vulnerable to attack in connection with a divorce. For example, a prenup may be unenforceable if one spouse can show that: The agreement was signed under duress; He or she didn’t have independent legal counsel; The agreement was unconscionable when signed; or
The other spouse didn’t provide full financial disclosure. There’s always a risk that the other spouse will challenge the agreement, which can be costly and time consuming. A domestic asset protection trust (DAPT) can solve many of the problems associated with a prenup. It eliminates the emotional component, because there’s no need to obtain the consent of, or even inform, the future spouse. In some cases, a foreign asset protection trust (FAPT) may be appropriate. A DAPT is an irrevocable, spendthrift trust established in one of the 15 or so states that authorize them. What distinguishes DAPTs from other types of trusts is that, in addition to offering gift and estate tax benefits, they provide creditor protection
even if the grantor is a discretionary beneficiary. DAPT protection varies from state to state, so it’s important to shop around. Ideally, you should look for a jurisdiction that provides grantors with the greatest degree of control over trust investments and protects trust assets from a broad range of creditors, including divorcing spouses. To take advantage of this strategy, it’s critical to transfer assets to the DAPT well in advance of marriage. Otherwise, the transfer may be deemed fraudulent. Provided the trust holds legal title to the assets — and an independent trustee has discretionary control over distributions — it will be difficult for a divorcing spouse to reach those assets.
DAPTs have one potential disadvantage: Even though they’ve been around for years, the law surrounding them remains uncertain. Most experts believe that a properly designed DAPT will be effective when set up by a resident of the state whose law authorizes it. But it’s less clear whether these trusts will be recognized when set up by nonresidents. If you’re considering this strategy, talk to your estate planning attorney about the options available in your state, in other states or offshore. Richard A. Littorno is an attorney specializing in estate planning. He has offices in Walnut Creek and Pittsburg. Send your questions to Richard@LittornoLaw.com.
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JULY 1 FOR THE JULY 10 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
IN CLAYTON Saturdays thru Sep. 19, except July 4 Farmers’ Market 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown Clayton. pcfma.com/clayton. June 20, July 4 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.
ON THE MOUNTAIN Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Events Calendar for more information. June 13 Summer Night Hike Three-mile hike up Mitchell Canyon, Globe Lily and Red Road. 7 – 9:30 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center.
July 2 Thursday Concerts in the Grove 7 - 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. cityofclayton.org. For a complete concert series list, see Page 3.
June 20 Summer Solstice Saunter Celebrate the eve of the longest day of the year with a hike on Mount Diablo. 7 – 9:30 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Registration required: sweettrails00@gmail.com or mtdiablohiker@gmail.com.
July 4 Pancake Breakfast and Parade The day begins with the Clayton Valley 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: $6 adults; $4 kids. No registration for Kiddie Parade. Register for main parade at cityofclayton.org.
June 21 Snakes Alive Meet several local snakes, including the rattlesnake. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summit Museum.
July 10 Moonlight Movies “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.” Bring a lawn chair, blankets, invite friends and neighbors and join us at sunset for a surround sound spectacular evening. Activities begin at 7:30 p.m. Movies start at 8:45 p.m. Clayton Community Church, 6055 Main St. Free admission. claytoncc.com.
IN CONCORD Pavilion Concert Schedule The Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road, Concord. theconcordpavilion.com. Shows start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. June 14, Spirit West Coast Festival July 3, California Symphony, 8 p.m. July 7, Smashing Pumpkins and Marilyn Manson July 9, Van Halen and Kenny Wayne Shepherd July 15, Chicago and Earth, Wind and Fire July 18, Sublime, 6 p.m. July 21, 5 Seconds of Summer Aug. 4, The Boys of Zummer Aug. 7, Idina Menzel Aug. 14, The Pink Print Tour Aug. 26, Slipknot Sep. 20, Counting Crows
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Thru June 14 “A Little Night Music” Rapturous and seductive musical. American Conservatory Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco. $20-$140. act-sf.org. (415) 749-2228. Thru June 14 “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!” The most fantasmagorical stage musical in the history of everything. Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $15-$25. bayareastage.org. Thru June 27 “Anything Goes” As the SS American heads out to sea, two unlikely pairs set off on a course to true love. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $37-$63. centerrep.org. June 13 “Don Quixote” Performed by Soo Dance Academy. 6 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $23-$28. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 13 – 14 “Guys and Dolls Jr.” Performed by Poison Apple Productions. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $18-$20. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Tuesdays Farmers’ Market Tuesdays year round. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
June 14 “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” Presented by The Vagabond Players. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $10-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Tuesday Nights in July Blues Series Some of the best blues in the Bay Area. July 7, Delta Wires. 6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free. cityofconcord.org.
June 19 - 20 “Beyond the Sea Dance Showcase 2015” Pittsburg Performing Arts Academy’s annual recital featuring dancers and performers ages three through adult. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $12. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Thursdays Music and Market Thursday night live music and farmers’ market. Music: June 18, Sun Kings; June 25, Battle of the Bands with PUSH; July 2, Fahrenheit 5150; July 9, Zepparella. Market 4 – 8 p.m.; music 6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
June 19 – July 19 Sculpture in the Garden Ruth Bancroft Garden transforms into an outdoor art gallery. 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. $8-$10. ruthbancroftgarden.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. Thru June 27 Art Show The aRt Cottage features Nudes, artwork created by colleagues who appreciate the body as a beautiful landscape. 2238 Mt. Diablo St., Concord. Free. artcottage.info. June 20 “Marry Me with Marigolds” Book of poetry. Signing by author Sylvia Rosenthal who wrote the poems between the ages of 75 and 90. 1 p.m. Montecito, 4756 Clayton Road, Concord. For more information, call (707) 674-6134. July 4 Celebration 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.
June 20 “Clue Done It” Presented by Dragon Viper Cobra. 7 and 9 p.m. Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $10. campbelltheater.com. June 20 – 21 “Falling Heroes, Rising Stars: A Juneteenth Dance Celebration” Honoring African American musical artists that have died since 2000, but will inspire for generations. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $26-$30. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611. June 21 Marriott Opera in the Park Father’s Day celebration presented by Festival Opera. 3 p.m. Civic Park, 1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Free. festivalopera.org. June 26 – 27 “Elton: The Sing-Along” Presented by the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. Nourse Theater, 275 Hayes St., San Francisco. $25-$60. sfgmc.org. July 3 Independence Day Spectacular California Symphony pops concerts return to the Concord Pavilion with a patriotic program. 8 p.m. 2000 Kirker Pass Road, Concord. $10-$25. californiasymphony.org.
July 10 Young Actors Studio Showcase Final showcase of summer acting program filled with songs from Broadway shows presented by The Ballet School. 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. July 10, 12 “Ariadne auf Naxos” This opera features both lighthearted comedy and heroic grand opera. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$88. festivalopera.org. July 11 Improv Vacation Presented by Act II Improv. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
CHURCHES AND RELIGION June 22 – 26, 28 Vacation Bible School For preschoolers through middle school children. Kids explore the answers to universal questions with SonSpark Labs science-themed activities. Monday thru Thursday from 1 – 4 p.m. Friday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Presentation Sunday at 10:30 a.m. service. Concord United Methodist Church, 1645 West St., Concord. Free. concordumc.org.
FUNDRAISERS 2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org. Relay For Life Clayton For a complete list of current fundraisers, see Page 14. June 13 Plant Sale Flowering, drought-tolerant plants for sale. Talk about native bees. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. sale; 10 – 11:30 a.m. talk. Markham Regional Arboretum Society Nursery. 1202 La Vista Ave., Concord. 681-2968. June 20 Rock the CASA An evening of music for Court Appointed Special Advocates, presented by Dan Ashley and featuring Eddie Money. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $150. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469. June 26 Golf Tournament Fundraiser by Red Devil Golf Classic Committee for Mt. Diablo High School. 11:30 a.m. lunch; 1 p.m. shot gun start. Diablo Creek Golf Course, 4050 Port Chicago Highway, Concord. $155. For more information, contact Ralph Vallis at rv76667@aol.com or Lou Adamo at louadamo@gmail.com.
AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call 673-0659. June 15, 22, 29: Fun Days, 2 – 3 p.m. June 17: Drumm, 7 p.m. June 22: Clayton Knits, 1:30 – 4 p.m. June 24: Investing for College, 7 p.m. June 25: Circus, Music and Laughs, 4 p.m. June 27: SAT/ACT Test, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. July 6: Fairy Tale Engineering. Register in advance. 1 p.m. The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or 646-5455. June 20: Author Rafael Lopez, 10:30 a.m. June 25: Master Gardeners and Saving Water, 6:30 p.m.
GOVERNMENT 1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or cityofclayton.org. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or cityofclayton.org.
June 12, 2015
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Add dash, flash and zing to all your recipes with fresh summer herbs DEBRA J. MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market
Fresh herbs are fantastic this time of year. The fragrance and the taste will make your recipes sing with flavor. From the basics — parsley, basil, thyme, cilantro and rosemary, to the exotic — Asian chives, lemongrass, and chili leaves — you’ll find a wide selection of interesting herbs at the farmers’ market. The farmers who grow these fresh herbs will be glad to share with you their many culinary uses. You can also pick up the “Cooking with Herbs” brochure at the market information booth or visit our website and read about herbs. Cooking with fresh herbs enhances the flavors of any food. There are many varieties of fresh herbs available for the home cook to experiment with, adding flavor without adding fat, salt or calories to the recipes. Herbs fall into two categories: the “fine” herbs, such as basil, chervil, rosemary and thyme, and the “robust” herbs like mint, savory, dill and sage.
Generally, all herbs should be added toward the end of cooking. After cooking too long, they give a bitter taste to the food. Here are some “herb facts”: • Herb flavors are best when picked fresh. • Some fresh herbs will keep up to two weeks when refrigerated and sealed in small plastic bags. • Refrigerate basil and dill with stem or roots in water, covered. • Wash when you’re ready to use. Keep at room temperature until the leaves dry. • When using herbs for the first time, use small amounts. Add more if necessary. CLASSIC PESTO SAUCE This should be in everyone’s recipe repertoire. Pesto is very easy and ideal for pasta, grilled sourdough bread or roasted summer squash. 4 cups fresh basil leaves (rinsed, patted dry) 1/4 cup pine nuts 2 cloves garlic (crushed) 3/4 cup olive oil 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Salt and pepper (to taste) 1 lb. cooked pasta Place the basil, nuts, and gar-
Page 17
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lic in a blender or food processor and blend or process until the leaves are chopped. Add the oil and blend or process until smooth. You may need to stop the machine, scrape the sides with a spatula, then blend or process again. Add the cheese, salt and pepper. Scoop the pesto into a large serving bowl and add 1 pound cooked and drained pasta; toss well. This sauce freezes well. HERBED DIPPING OIL This is a good condiment to have around the kitchen as well. Use as a dipping oil for sourdough bread or as
an herb salad dressing with the addition of balsamic vinegar. 1 cup olive oil 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar (optional) 1 Tbsp. each basil, oregano, parsley (chopped) 1/2 tsp. salt Dash red pepper flakes (optional) 1 tsp. pepper Mix all the ingredients together and let sit to allow the flavors to meld for at least two to three hours before serving. Serve in a shallow bowl with crusty Italian bread cut into thick slices. Makes 1 cup.
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Picture the perfect wall for artwork
JENNIFER LEISCHER
DESIGN & DÉCOR You’ve just returned home from a visit to a local portrait studio. Your prize, for a morning spent with your family in a cozy 10-foot by 10-foot studio, is a lovely, framed family portrait. Before the hanging of this object on the wall becomes a line item on the “honey-do” list, you decide to seize the moment and find a home on one of the many walls in your home yourself. Before your outing today, you had the perfect spot in mind, above the mantel in your living room, but now that you have the framed photo in front of you, you’re rethinking the placement. Maybe it would be better in the dining room? Or the entry? Over the master bedroom bed? Hmmm. The physical act of hanging a framed piece or art is usually a pretty basic task, but placing art in a living space is just as important as selecting a sturdy family room sofa upholstery. PUBLIC VS. PRIVATE VIEWING A family photo, a water color
Rochellez
you purchased at the Art & Wine festival, a group of dogs playing poker: Oh where or where should these pieces hang? Artwork is so very personal. It delights and inspires, makes you reminisce and ponder, and sometimes cry and laugh all at the same time. There is no such thing as good or bad artwork in the eye of the beholder, but, there is something to be said about what should be placed where. A family portrait in the powder room? That’s maybe not the best location for viewing, but instead, consider a focal wall within your living room or a bookcase in your family room. A cheerful
watercolor in the laundry room? Maybe, but what about a dark hallway that needs some color and life? A group of dogs playing poker? Let’s circle back to this one. Some artwork is meant for the masses, and some artwork is best suited to be viewed on a more personal level. At a minimum, art should be appropriate to the design aesthetic of a living space and the level of sophistication and understanding of its viewer.
HAVE A PLAN OF ATTACK When hanging, or re-hanging, artwork, it’s good to have a plan. For example, if you’re looking to create a collage wall, spend a good amount of time collecting the anchoring pieces: a metal garden gate that you will flank with black and white photography, sailing flags that you’ve been collecting for your home office that will be organized with sepia toned pencil sketches of yachts, or your children’s artwork that you’ve had transferred onto stretched canvas that will be hung in the playroom, along with all of their school photos. Instead of placing random pieces of art here and there, consider the location that will be receiving this artwork. Is the wall big enough for all your goodies? Do you have enough space to walk around the wall if you are using pieces that protrude? This may sound a little tedious, but having a plan, when working with so many parts, can be the difference of success or pulling your hair out. 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.
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Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
Performing Arts
‘Anything Goes’ is theme of summer SALLY HOGARTY
STAGE STRUCK I can’t get the tunes from Center Rep’s marvelous production of “Anything Goes” out of my head. Nor do I want to. Such Cole Porter songs as “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “It’s DeLovely,” “Blow, Gabriel, Blow” and “Anything Goes” just bring a spring to your step as the musical’s infectious spirit refuses to leave my mind. Of course, there is much more than Porter’s lingering melodies. Victoria LivingstonHall’s costumes bring back the elegance and gorgeous lines of 1930s fashions while Michael Locher’s lavish set creates the S.S. American with its gracefully curved staircases and aqua marine colors beautifully amplified by Kurt Landisman’s lighting.
Photo by Kevin Berne
MOLLY BELL AS RENO SWEENEY (center) captivates audiences in CenterREP’s ‘Anything Goes’ now at the Lesher Center.
Michael Butler directs this enchanting production starring the incredible Molly Bell as cabaret star Reno Sweeney. Here is a beauty who isn’t afraid to show her comedic chops while dancing up a storm to Amanda Folena’s delightfully fresh choreography. Jeffrey Draper makes a charming Sir Evelyn Oakley with newcomer to Center Rep, Joshua Hollister, a marvelous addition as Billy Crocker. The entire cast exudes talent, including an especially harmonious quartet of sailors. For tick-
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ets, call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Cal Shakes opened its season this past week with Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” Running through June 21, the Bard’s comedy explores the beauty and madness of love at the magnificent Bruns Amphitheater in the Orinda hills. Christopher Moore directs a gender-bending cast of seven women and one man who play myriad parts. “I’m thrilled that this cast is filled with some of the Bay Area’s most extraordinary female actors,” says Moore. For tickets, call 510-548-9666 or go to www.calshakes.org. The American Conservatory Theater (ACT) opened director Mark Lamos’ fresh take on Stephen Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music” last week in San Francisco. Featuring Broadway star Karen Ziemba, the show runs through June 21 at the company’s Geary Theatre in San Francisco. Ziemba, who has won numerous awards for her many per-
formances on Broadway and at the Lincoln Center, brings Desiree to life with a wink in her eye and a song on her lips as the aging diva navigates the often choppy waters of love. Sondheim’s dreamlike vision of the games men and women play takes on a decidedly sexy flavor with a touch of comedy under Lamos’ direction. Beginning the show with a sensuous waltz, the masked ensemble swirls through a variety of erotic couplings setting the tone for this amorous tale of Fredrik Egerman (Patrick Cassidy), his very young wife (the charming Laurie
Veldheer) and his former lover (Ziemba). The woman in this production certainly steal the show with Ziemba’s remarkable stage presence, Broadway veteran Dana Ivey’s amusing Madame Armfeldt, Marissa McGowan’s delightfully feisty Petra, and Emily Skinner’s sarcastic flair as Countess Malcolm. Paolo Montalban, as her husband, the adulterous count, doesn’t fair as well. But this is a small quibble in a production that includes such Sondheim delights as “Send in the Clowns,” beautifully performed by Ziemba and Cassidy. For tick-
ets, call 415-749-2228 or go to www.act-sf.org. Tickets are currently on sale for Pittsburg Community Theatre’s 2015-16 season, which includes: “Moon Over Buffalo,” “13 the Musical,” “Once Upon A Mattress,” “6 RMS RIV VU,” and “The Normal Heart.” For more information, go to www.pittsburgcommunitytheatre.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
A.C.T. presents ‘A Little Night Music’ Due to popular demand, American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.) has announced the extension of Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s seductive musical, “A Little Night Music.” Tickets are now on sale through June 21. “A Little Night Music” presents a beguiling and bittersweet tale of lost love, scandalous liaisons and youthful passions that intertwine over a midsummer’s eve at a country home in 1900s Sweden. Filled with Sondheim’s signature wit and some of his most gorgeous melodies — including
the beloved and haunting “Send in the Clowns” — this all-new production of “A Little Night Music” will sweep audiences away with theatrical storytelling that ignites the senses. It is directed by two-time Tony Award nominee Mark Lamos. In addition, A.C.T. announced that it will offer an open-captioned performance of the play at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17. Special seats have been reserved for the hearing impaired audience members who would like an optimal view of the digital screen. These tick-
ets are available by visiting www.act-sf.org/music (select the “caption” tab) or by calling A.C.T. at 415-749-2228. Regular tickets for “A Little Night Music,” are available online and by phone at the above address and number.
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Gratitude grows from just a little seed Sometimes, art is a life-long passion. And sometimes, it takes a life-changing event to channel that passion into something that will grow and prosper. That’s what happened to Ellen Sachtschale. Ceramics has been her passion for a long time — ever since she started her high school ceramics course when she was 14. It has been an integral part of her ever since. She was lucky enough to find a husband, Rick, who was supportive of her work in the arts, whether it was teaching, working in galleries, consulting, and creating and selling her own art. Rick’s work as an engineer allowed Ellen to stay home with their three kids, while developing her organic style of pottery, even as the family moved from Chicago to North Carolina to California. Throughout it all, Sachtschale loved her work with clay, and her work in the community.
ELLEN SACHTSCHALE
But on June 27, 2009, everything changed. Her husband, Rick, died of heat stroke while hiking nearby Mount Diablo with their 17 year old son, Andrew.
Her kids were just 13, 15 and 17. Suddenly, Sachtschale was a widow who needed to provide financial and emotional support to her grieving family. Work in the arts and with her students was always healing, and she didn’t have the energy or the heart to change fields at this time. “Working with my art and sharing it with my students was the only time I relaxed and felt whole,” she says. “Throughout my years of teaching, I’ve seen many people turn to the arts when they needed to heal from health issues, unemployment, divorce, relocation or grief.” This work also allowed her to be available to her kids, which was more important than ever. But even as Sachtschale’s spirit slowly healed, she felt something else emerge, too. She felt that “our relationships and our culture need nurturing. Relationships were sometimes
overlooked as we spent too many hours trying to earn enough money. Communicating through cyber space just added to the impersonal quality of our culture.” Ellen’s work has always been organic in nature. That’s why seed pods have been a recurring theme for many years. She hopes to bring some balance to lives — to counteract the marketing hype and the pressure to “always be earning more, so we can spend more.” She says she wants to focus on what’s most important in life — relationships and giving back to the community. “In these days of emails and texts, sincere hand-written words are a treasure to be held on to. Sometimes the best gift is a simple and lasting expression of thoughtfulness.” And that’s how Seeds of Gratitude was born.
See Gratitude, page 19
June 12, 2015
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 19
‘Imaginary’ is a real summer stunner SUNNY SOLOMON
FOR
THE
BOOKS
It’s almost summer. Summer, for a lot of us, is a time for family visits, especially those family outside our own city or state. So I’ve picked a read-aloud book that although it can be read alone by any brave child from 10 to 14, the experience is all the richer when read snuggled up to a parent, grandparent or any other at-hand relative. A. F. Harrold’s “The Imaginary” (Bloomsbury USA Children’s, March, 2015) would especially benefit from a campfire
or at least a nighttime well fallen. How many of us remember as kids, filling up our empty spaces with imaginary friends? Not all such beings come directly from our conscious imagination. Some, like Amanda’s friend Rudger, simply appear without invitation. Amanda is not aware of Rudger’s presence until she throws a pair of muddy shoes into her wardrobe where Rudger stands, already holding the coat Amanda has tossed in the same wardrobe only minutes earlier. When the shoes “bounced off his stomach and fell to the carpet,” Rudger said, “Oof.” And so the story begins. Not only does Amanda not know how Rudger came to be in her wardrobe, but Rudger himself doesn’t know how he got there, or even where he’d been before. It’s
not long before Amanda takes Rudger everywhere with her. To school, where he is imaginatively introduced to her friends, and even to the breakfast table, where Amanda’s mother has begun to set a place for him. Everything is pretty okay until trouble appears in the person of Mr. Bunting — and of the very pale little girl who is his sidekick. Since children won’t be reading this review, I have no fear of presenting a spoiler in saying that ugly and weird Mr. Bunting’s goal in life is to hunt down imaginaries like Rudger and suck them up. Yuk. Bunting has the most awful teeth that are a part of a mouth big enough to fit over the head of an imaginary, and then he sucks. He needs to consume imaginaries in order to live. Initially, Amanda
is Rudger’s first line of defense. She stands between Bunting and Rudger, until one day she is struck by a car, seriously injured and taken to a hospital. Bunting is nearby, so poor Rudger takes off, finally finding refuge in a public library. Harrold writes a gruesomely delicious tale appropriate for the marketed age group and any adult. What happens to Rudger as he searches for Amanda? Who are the imaginaries he meets at the library? Where do imaginaries go when children no longer need them? Artist Emily Gravett adds to Harrold’s story by using color in startling displays within her darkly drawn illustrations. I know I’ll be revisiting my copy of “The Imaginary.” Not only do I have one grandchild
almost ready for it and a few others who will be shortly, but the topics of imagination, fear and friendship are never meant for only one age group. I promise, this is a keeper.
Outdoor Living Begins Here R&M is the place for:
Lack of time, suspense doom ‘Poltergeist’ In cinema, sometimes less is more. Suspense can be heightened by tightening up a film’s editing, removing excess plot threads and trimming characters. However, that is exactly what is wrong with the horror genre today. Gil Kenan’s “Poltergeist” remake has a running time of 93 minutes. Tobe Hooper’s 1982 original runs 120 minutes. That extra 27 minutes of story development is what’s missing from Kenan’s film. Certain horror films are “slow burns”; a very limited amount of scares are shown early on as the film slowly builds up the tension until the final 15-20 minutes of payoff. “Poltergeist” (2015) is not one of those. The original movie spent the first third of the film letting the family settle into the house and only experience the occasional random “chair stacking” or “dish flying across the room.” In the new film, Sam Rockwell plays Eric who has just moved with his wife Amy (Rosemarie Dewitt) to a new house with their three children. Within minutes of moving in, the youngest, Madison
JEFF MELLINGER
SCREEN SHOTS (Kennedi Clements), begins talking to imaginary closet people. Soon after, the middle child, Griffin (Kyle Catlett), finds a convenient storage space full of scary clown dolls — perfect for the fraidy-cat who has to sleep in the attic. Of course, his parents do not believe his ramblings at first. It is not until they come home from a dinner when they realize something is wrong with their house. The oldest child, Kendra (Saxon Sharbino), babysits while Eric and Amy go to a dinner in which Eric may be able to further his career. However, the dinner
Gratitude, from page 18 Seeds of Gratitude is a way Sachtschale helps others while still creating the art she and others treasure. Once a month at the Clayton Farmers Market, Sachtschale’s art booth, Generous Nature Pottery, will be offering Seeds of Gratitude, Blessing Bowls, Air Fern Planters and Tide Pool Bowls. For every item purchased, Generous Nature Pottery will donate a meal to the Solano and Contra Costa Counties Food Bank. When she is not at the
Clayton market, Sachtschale will be at other local Farmers Markets doing the same thing. “In a culture where, everywhere you turn, someone is trying to get you to buy something, it’s easy to overlook all that sustains us in life — relationships, nature, art,” she says. “Isn’t it time to nurture our relationships, support the arts and feed the hungry?” In recent months, Sachtschale has taken on a business partner, Julie Langley, and has two other
does more to cheaply further the plot. In random conversation, Eric discovers the house he purchased may be built on a cemetery. Guess they left that off the brochure. Concurrently, the children are at home are getting into sticky situations. Kendra almost gets eaten by the basement floor, Griffin almost gets eaten by a tree and Madison gets eaten by her closet. From here, while relying on clichéd frights, the film mostly just follows the plot of the original. The one exception is a bland ghost hunter, Carrigan Burke (Jared Harris), taking the place of the psychic Tangina (Zelda Rubenstein). Early on in the film, Kendra happens to be watching a show about ghost hunters. Later on, Amy goes to her old college to talk with the resident professor of the supernatural. The professor just happens to not only personally know Burke, host of the ghost hunter show, but they were formally married to each other. Besides being a huge plot contrivance, this creates totally unnecessary banter during what should be the most suspenseful
artists, Miriam and Eva, creating works for Generous Nature Pottery as well. “Though plant-like, my works reflect many qualities of the human spirit,” Sachtschale says. “Some conceal and protect their inner selves, while others celebrate in full bloom. Still, others swell in willing anticipation of great growth.” And all it takes is a seed of an idea. Sachtschale will be at the Clayton Farmers Market on July 11. For more information, see Generous Nature Pottery on Facebook.
Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’
part of the film. Burke is neither an exciting character nor an interesting one. It is not even clear how or what he does once he goes to the “here but not here” to talk down the spirits. Despite a few jump scares and an admirable acting job by the three children, “Poltergeist” falls flat. Sam Rockwell seems to be the most uninterested father of children-in-peril in cinema history. Yet it is Kenan’s decision to try and cram the whole story into 93 minutes that ultimately dispossesses this Poltergeist. C-
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Jeff Mellinger is a screenwriter and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. He lives in Concord. Email comments to editor@concordpioneer.com.
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Page 20
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
June 12, 2015
Super succulents captivate most Clayton gardeners Interest in succulents is soaring. Folks are captivated by this group of intriguing, droughtloving, evergreen and fabulously easy-to-grow plants. Many have found themselves spellbound and are continuously adding to their collections. They peruse nursery shelves in search of a distinct echeveria or unique sempervivum. They scrutinize four-inch pots of senico and crassula seeking the most desirable variegations and color hues. Succulents are all the rage, and once you grow one, you’ll want to grow them all. Echeveria is a very large group of succulents and one of the most recognizable. Their leaves create rosettes of fleshy
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL green, gray, gray-green or edged depending on the selection. This is a medium-size succulent, growing wider than tall. Echeveria Holly Gate is a large, fast growing succulent. It has bluish-green foliage that is
tipped in pink. Echeveria Debbie has misty blue rosettes that take on a pink hue during the cooler months. Black Prince is one of the darkest echeveria with chocolate colored leaves. All echeveria bloom. They have slim stems that hold droopy Sempervivum is another rosette shaped succulent. This family’s rosettes are bound very tight. Sempervivum are mostly green with margins and streaks of color. Maturing plants spread from offsets (sempervivum babies) that cluster around the parent plant, and root. Offsets can also be removed, shared and replanted. This type succulent is also a medium sized grower. The Senecio family is made
up of mostly trailing members. Senecios are available in green selections, gray and almost white. The most popular member of this family is Senico rowleyanus, commonly called String of Pearls. Recently, the Senecio Blue Chalkstick has made its way in to our Clayton landscapes as a ground cover. Senecio Blue Chalkstick is winter hardy and makes an excellent contrast to black bark. Crassula has both upright and trailing family members. If you’ve ever grown a Jade plant, then you’ve grown a Crassula. Crassula is a very large family, some look like Jade plants, and many don’t. Crassula Princess Pine is a fabulously unique member of this family. Crassula Perforata variegate has creamcolored leaves with a light green margin touched with soft pink at the tips. This selection is hard to find and worth the search. Sedum, Aeonium, Rhipsalis and Graptosedum are all fabulous. Sedum is available as medium growers, uprights and drap-
ers. They come in a large assortment of colors, including chartreuse. Aeonium makes a great vertical succulent. Aeonium atropupurea has dark purpleblack leaves that are positioned in a rosette shape. With maturity, this Aeonium will grow a small trunk. Rhipsalis makes a nice cascading succulent. Some selections are covered in hair, and the plant can look like ocean coral. Graptosedum is a hybrid succulent. This selection is a trailing plant with some body. Educating ourselves about succulents is like learning a different language. Many of their names are long, and hard to pronounce. Unlike some other plants in the garden, succulents have very few needs. Succulents don’t like to be overwatered. They want to dry out completely between watering. Succulents don’t require regular fertilizer. They seldom need pruning. Aside from some early spring mealy bug and aphid, succulents fairly pest free.
You must protect succulents from heavy rain and frost. Frost cover tents can really come in handy from December through March. Consider succulent combinations in your next container grouping, or planting bed. You too may be come spellbound with all this plant family has to offer. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Contact her with questions or comments at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
Enjoy twilight on Mt. Diablo
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For more information please contact
Come out and join a docent from the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association for an evening stroll along Mitchell Canyon. These easy night hike adventures offer an opportunity to explore the park after hours and after everyone else has gone home. A night hike holds many expectations but the real fun is the possibilities of its many surprises. Since the hike starts before dark there is the pleasure of seeing and hearing birds such as the acorn woodpecker, the western blue bird or the ash throated as they settle in for the night. The remnants of late spring wild flowers are still visible along the trail and the night blooming soap plant opens wide, giving the illusion of small dancing fairies. Other common sights might include the last evening soaring of swallows as they sweep down over ponds and creeks snatching
MIKE MARCHIANO
MOUNTAIN MIKE mosquitoes and gnats out of the air. As the last rays of sunlight disappear it almost seems that these aerobatic birds morph into leather winged night creatures as they are replaced in the sky by canyon bats and little brown bats. These too will sweep the air eating thousands of small flying insects throughout the night. Although rarely seen, twilight creatures include deer, coyote, raccoons, fox and bobcats. As you walk the paths and road-
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ways you will pick up the red reflected eyes of the poor will, a night-flying bird as it sits on the ground and you will hear its gentle call through the canyon. You may even hear the call of the great horned owl or clicking in the sky as the “ghostly” and silent barn owl glides over the grasslands looking for an unsuspecting gopher or vole. Often the sound of silence is heard and then it can be interrupted by the distant howl of a coyote. Along the road a variety of insects and other arthropods may be seen along with the western toad hopping along and hoping to make a meal out them. The highlight of the evening may be when the docent asks everyone to turn off their flashlights and then turns on an ultra-violet or black light, shining it along a rocky outcrop. What appears are local forest scorpions, glowing in the dark. Biologists have not figured out what cause this phenomenon but for a first-time observer it is a bit of a thrill. Although the forest scorpion does have a stinger to use in self-defense, its weak venom has no effect on humans. Go the Mount Diablo Interpretive Associations website and sign up for one of these twilight adventures offered throughout the summer. Michael Marchiano is a naturalist with Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association. Email him at mmarchiano@gmail.com.