JUN 17 Clayton Pioneer 2005 by Pioneer Publishers

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

925.672.0500

Keller House work underway GREGG MANNING

MAYOR’S CORNER

Everyone who’s a parent already knows that the birth of your first child changes your perspective on almost everything. As Kevin Parker said after the birth of JT, “I used to come home from work, change and go hike. I still do that, but now it’s all different.” We wanted to know what some brand new dads were thinking about their first Fathers Day. Here’s what they said.

The city’s maintenance crew--exactly what do they do all day? Funding for the current Landscape Maintenance District sunsets in 2008. The Blue Ribbon Committee has recommended that the issue be put on the ballot for a vote of the people. The Council is currently considering when to do this. A number of people have asked us what it is that the landscape maintenance workers actually do. Let’s take a look at their work schedule for the month of June. What follows is a general list of the maintenance activities that are planned for the month. All of the tasks may or may not be completed due to many factors including the demands of sick leave, vacations and jury duty, the difficulty of the task, equipment failure and other unforeseen emergencies or priorities. Clayton has five full-time maintenance workers who devote about 54 percent of their time to the city’s landscaping. So it’s as if three of the five employees worked full time on landscaping. Another way to look at this workload is to imagine that you and one of the homeowners on each side of you, three people in all, had to take care of all of the city’s turf mowing, shrub trimming, irrigation repairs, plant replacement, weed elimination, trail maintenance, open space and firebreaks. Of course in the summer you, unlike our city’s maintenance workers, could each have a couple of your kids help. So, let’s get started. First thing they do on Monday is

See Mayor, page A6

What’s inside The Pioneer is now in two sections. See below to find your favorite feature.

SECTION A Around Town . . . . . . . . . .A2 Directory of Advertisers . .A5 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A5 School News . . . . . . . . . . . .A7 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .A8 Music Notes . . . . . . . . . . . .A9 Food for Thought . . . . . .A10 Church News . . . . . . . . . .A11 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . .A12 Lookin’ Good . . . . . . . . . .A12 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . .A13 SECTION B Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B2 Dining Around . . . . . . . . . .B4 Crossword Puzzle . . . . . . . .B5 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B8 Paws and Claws . . . . . . . . .B9 For the Birds . . . . . . . . . . . .B9 Hiker’s Haven . . . . . . . . . .B10

New dads reflect on Father’s Day

WORK

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

TO PRESERVE AND WEATHERPROOF

TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Last month crews began work to preserve and weatherproof the city owned historic Keller House. Disintegrating stucco, rotting wood and deteriorating walls have left the building vulnerable to the elements along with providing some cozy, inviting quarters for the town’s squirrel population. The squirrels have since been chased away and the exterior walls have been pulled off

the historic Keller House should be complete by the end of July.

down to the wood framing. The exterior stucco was too far gone to repair, reports Laura Hoffmeister, Assistant to the City Manager. “When the workmen pulled off a test area, it (the stucco) was pulverized—it was dust,” she said. The decayed wood members are being replaced and the house will be re-stuccoed and painted. Roof repairs and site clean up were completed last year. So far, the preservation work has cost the city $215,600, paid

for from Redevelopment Agency funds earmarked for the purpose. City Engineer, Rick Angrisani expects the preservation work to be complete by the end of July. Long range plans call for a complete renovation of the property when Redevelopment Agency money is available. This phase of the Keller House restoration project does not include any interior work. The craftsman style house was built by Charles Henry “Harry” Keller in 1929. Keller, a

Clayton native, was a butcher living in Concord until he and his wife Elodia acquired 1300 acres from the Frederick Denkinger trust in 1910. It’s said that the Kellers camped under the huge oak tree on the site while the house was being built. After passing through several hands, the property was acquired by the City of Clayton in 1991. The house sits on a little less than two acres of land across the creek behind the Library.

ROBIN

AND SON,

UDAI

ROBIN MINHAS: “I was never too comfortable with babies, until now,” says Robin Minhas who is the proud new father of a baby boy, Udaiveer. He used to celebrate Father’s Day in India by spending time

Slight increase for 2005-06 city budget TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Reversing a two-year trend of budget reductions caused by the State of California’s repeated raids on city coffers, Clayton will actually see a small increase in revenues in the coming year. The proposed 2005-06 General Fund budget, which includes all of the operations of the city, actually reflects a 5.46 percent increase over last year. That’s the good news. The bad news is that any increase in revenues has already been eaten up mainly by a $63,000 increase in CalPERS retirement costs,

$15,000 increase in Workers Compensation Insurance premiums and $20,055 in employee health insurance. Performance merit raises will account for a miniscule $5,979 increase. The net effect of these increases is yet one more year of public services held at a barely adequate “bare bones level.” “In today’s turbulent fiscal times for all governments,” reads says City Manager Gary Napper in his June 7 report to the City Council, “the phrase ‘same old same old’ is a complimentary remark.” The anticipated general fund revenues will increase by

$176,000 over last year with the largest contributions coming from property tax revenues and vehicle license fees. However, despite the passage of Proposition 1A last November, the State will divert another $806,518 from Clayton’s revenues in the coming year. One can “only imagine what good these local monies could be generating locally to improve the lives and general welfare of our city,” says Napper. The police department, which accounts for 47 percent of the general fund budget, will, for the first time in two years, be fully staffed, pushing the total cost of the department to $1.6 million, up 6.5 percent from last year. On the wish list for the future is one more officer to work on traffic and speeding issues. While the General Fund Budget accounts for the operations of the city, there are several other Special Revenue, or “Enterprise” funds which are restricted to specific uses. The City cannot dip into one fund to make up a shortfall in another. Included in these funds is the citywide Landscape Maintenance District assessment, which will be $125.37. The District is due to sunset in

2007 and it is anticipated that the City Council will take the renewal of the District to the voters in November of this year. The Blue Ribbon Landscape Committee has recommended that the assessment be raised to $365 in order to fund the landscaping costs, complete some $2 million in deferred maintenance projects and pay for the projected $60,000 annual maintenance of the proposed downtown park. With increases in Redevelopment Agency funds, the city now has the $1.387 million needed to build the park, but construction won’t move forward until a source of maintenance money is locked in. Other Redevelopment Agency money will be available to establish a new fund to spiff up the downtown area. The City is considering several ideas, including a Façade Rehabilitation Program and the closing off and filling in of Morris and Diablo Streets to create a pedestrian zone and some outdoor dining areas. Other restricted funds include the Gas Tax Fund, Street Light Fund, Stormwater Fund, Measure “C” Fund, Selfinsurance Fund, Oakhurst

See Budget, page A4

PAUL

AND SON,

JUSTIN

with the family at a dinner or lunch. Since Robin is home now pursuing his medical licensure in the United States, he spends a lot of time holding and playing with his new son and he hopes to continue that

KEVIN

AND SON,

close bond in the future. “It’s really nice to be a father,” he adds. PAUL GRAY: “I can’t wait to

See Fathers, page A6

Page A2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

Around Town

We’re two years old, and growing! JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

The Clayton Pioneer turned two last month and to celebrate the event, we threw a party at R&M Pool

Patio and Garden. We invited our writers and readers to enjoy an evening of food, wine and music on R & M’s lovely interior patio. There was also a raffle with plenty of interesting gifts and gadgets, which

raised $300 for the Clayton Library and the Museum. Just two years ago, when Tamara and Bob Steiner purchased the newspaper they had one goal in mind…to make it a real community newspaper.

In just two years, we’ve grown from 10 pages to 26 (double sections this issue) and we’ve tripled our advertising. So, keep on reading. Remember, the Clayton Pioneer…it’s your paper.

8 6

Standing: Clayton’s first mayor, Bob Hoyer, Current Mayor Gregg Manning, Pioneer Publisher Bob Steiner, and Garden Girl Nicole Hacket, Seated: Editor and Publisher Tamara Steiner and Eldora Hoyer.

Easly Estates, Clayton - Looking out the front door breathtaking views of Mt. Diablo! 4 bedroom, plus office with 2-½ baths, this home sits on a large lot with park like yards with possible side access. Inside you will find updated kitchen and baths and fresh paint inside and out. $839,980

Stranahan, Clayton - Newer single-family home located near downtown, walking trails and schools. This 3 bedroom 2-½ baths home has laminate flooring, ceiling fans in all the bedrooms, and wood blinds throughout. Beautiful landscaped yards.

pen

Concord/Kirkwood - This home has 3 bedrooms with loft 2 ½ bath, master bedroom on the main floor, large kitchen, formal dining and in door laundry. Outside in enjoy beautiful landscaped yards and pool.

$659,980

Sundown Area, Walnut Creek - This 3 bedroom 2 ½ tri level town-home with bonus/office room off garage is spacious with and open and airy floor plan. You will find 2 fireplaces, kitchen with granite counter tops, newer flooring and indoor laundry.

$649,980

$669,980

ding

pen

Clayton/Concord Border - Seeing is believing this home sits on .41-acre flat lot with 2 bedrooms and 2 remodeled baths. Inside you will find newer carpeting, large kitchen, indoor laundry and a wood burning stove $599,980

1. Colleen Elwy and Kathy Mitchell 2. Dan and Linda Foss 3. David Hackett and Jeff Martin 4. Maddie Casky and Barbara Fogerson 5. Barbara Allen 6. Linda Wyner 7. Vintage: Santiago Martinez and Joyce Novicky Martinez 8. Autumn and Sam Totah; 9. Arlene Kikkawa-Nielsen and Mary Spryer

Easley Estates, Clayton - This charming split-level home has 4 bedrooms and 2 ½ baths that is sitting on a large lot. Inside you will find a separate formal dining room and inviting formal living room with large bay window looking out at beautiful views of Mt. $699,980 Diablo. A must see!

L Accred ynne offers F ited Pro REE f e s s i on with all her listi al Staging ng's

ding

pen

Jeffrey Ranch, Clayton - Spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bath Large with kitchen with large pantry, spacious living room, master bedroom with remodeled bath. Beautiful garden like yards with pool and spa.

$729,980

Eagle Peak, Clayton - Sought after area 5 bedroom, 3 ½ bath home sits on private view lot overlooking the valley and Delta. One bedroom and bath located on the main floor, 3 fireplaces and granite kitchen.

$1,098,000

YASAWA, FIJI GIVEWAWAY Win a trip to this all-inclusive island resort, hidden in tropical gardens on the edge of white sandy beaches.

Package includes: Round-trip airfare for two

from San Francisco to Nadi, Fiji; seaplane transfer to Yasawa island, all meals & non-alcoholic beverages, seven nights deluxe accomodations & all taxes & transfers.

Look for your entry form in the mail, compliments of Lynne French.

Entry Deadline 06.30.05

Drawing 07.06.05

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A3

Around Town Gary and Bonnie Boswell celebrate 40 years together Gary and Bonnie Boswell of Clayton celebrated their fortieth wedding anniversary May 13 with 75 family members and friends at a dinner dance at Oakhurst Country Club. In March, they celebrated with a cruise to Tahiti. Gary and Bonnie were high school sweethearts at Pacifica High School in West Pittsburg, CA. Their children, Michelle and Gary Eberhart and Christine and Joseph Hernandez, live in Concord. The couple has five grandchildren: Allison, Gezel and Megan Eberhard, and Jacob and Joshua Hernandez.

GARY AND BONNIE BOSWELL

Eagle Scout honored by City Council

Baby Elisabeth joins the Slavin family Byron and Joy Slavin proudly welcome their new daughter, Elisabeth Cait to their family. Elisabeth was born on March 31 and weighed in at 8lbs, 3 oz. and she was 20.5 inches long. Elisabeth will share space in the Slavin home with her two and one-halfyear-old sister, Ashley Clare.

MAYOR GREGG MANNING AND TRENTON WRIGHT

Eagle Scout Trenton M. Wright was recently honored by the Clayton City Council for the construction and installation of the arbor structure at the Clayton Dog Park. Trenton is a member of Boy Scout Troop 492.

ELISABETH SLAVIN

Meg Conrad raises $8,000 for Avon breast cancer walk

MEG CONRAD AND BOYS, BERNIE AND HUGH.

For the Conrad family, walking is a family affair—in more ways than one. In an email to the Pioneer last week, Clayton resident Charlie Conrad writes: Just before Christmas last year, we found out that Meg’s mother had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Now, my wife’s family is a remarkable clan. She grew up in Orinda and all five kids still live in California. We take vacations often as an entire group, and their spirited debates and dedication to family are remarkable. So when this news hit, they all circled the wagons and did everything they could to be of support. To that end, Meg signed up and has been training for the Avon walk for Breast Cancer, which will be taking place in San Francisco in July.

Jack Clough gets a hero’s welcome Seven-year-old Clayton resident Jack Clough arrived at Clayton Community Park last Friday with a bit of fanfare…a stretch Hummer delivered him into the arms of friends, family and Little Leaguers who came to welcome him home. Jack recently underwent spinal surgery to correct a condition brought on by cerebral palsy and he spent about six weeks at Children’s Hospital in Oakland. He missed his little league season and school at Mt. Diablo Elementary. So, well-wishers thought he deserved a party when he returned home. His mom, Kelly was filled with emotion as she watched Jack slowly walk from the Hummer to his wheelchair. Dad, Joe said that “everyone was so supportive. Jack had visi-

Now, when I heard about this, I envisioned her making some calls, raising a few hundred dollars, and then taking a stroll through the park. Not even close. This is a two-day, nearly 40 mile walk, with over 2000 participants. Meg has, by herself, through a diligent email and letter campaign raised nearly $8,000 dollars. Meg walks three to four times per week preparing at escalating levels, which last weekend reached 18 miles. She

walks through the beautiful trails of Clayton, and I know that the hills and heat will pay great dividends on Walk Day. What Charlie failed to mention is that he and the kids frequently go along with Meg on her training walks, covering 10 to 12 miles in two-day back-to-back walks. For more information or to donate to the Avon Walk, visit www.avonwalk.org.

For more Around Town, see page 15

Clayton Pioneer

July 4 Photo Contest Attention all you shutterbugs! Get ready, get set, GO for the Clayton Pioneer’s Third Annual July 4 Celebration Photo Contest. Each individual may submit up to three photos, but only one of those photos can win a prize. Photos must be snapshot size (3” x 5” or 4” x 6”) and must have been

taken during this year’s 4 th of July Celebration in downtown Clayton.

KELLY CLOUGH AND SON, JACK

tors every day at the hospital and that kept his spirits up.” Jack will be in rehab for the next year and will move on to third grade in the fall.

On the back of each photo, print your name, address, phone number and whether you are entering as an adult (over 12) or a child (12 and under.) Drop your prints off at the Clayton Pioneer office before 5 p.m. on Monday, July 11. Please do not e-mail photos. First place winners in the adult category will win a $50 gift certificate for Elysium Restaurant in downtown Clayton. Second place prize is $35 gift certificate for Pasta Primavera and third place is $25 gift certificate La Veranda Cafe. First prize in the 12 and under category is a $50 gift certificate for Mary’s Pizza Shack, second place is a $35 gift certificate for Rocco’s Pizza and the third place winner will receive a $15 gift certificate for Mountain Mike’s Pizza. Winning photos will appear in the July 15 issue of the Clayton Pioneer.

Good luck!

Concord/Clayton

i s e o V J a n Fleet-B e h T ronson Team

Independently owned and operated

At Intero, we begin and end each day with one goal: to provide our clients with the finest customer service available in real estate. Every Intero real estate professional is guided by principles of trust, respect and integrity.

Featured Property FABULOUS NEW (2005) HOME IN MOUNTAIN HOUSE!

Josie Van Fleet-Bronson

This is such a great opportunity to own a brand new home in an up and coming area. Located in a new development in the town of Mountain House, located between Livermore and Tracy. New home has upgrades that include: Carpeting, tile flooring, lighting & maple kitchen cabinets. Home features are: 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and 1,890 square feet of living space Home has a beautiful open floor plan, spacious tile kitchen with island, dramatic staircase, master bedroom suite, master bedroom, security system, gas fireplace in family room, pre-wired for surround sound, and landscaped front yard.

(formerly of RE/MAX)

Specializing in

Central and East Contra Costa County residential

Offered for: $624,950

Available Properties

and investment real estate since 1989 Loans/Refinancing Property Management Listed on the 2003/2004 Better Business Honor Roll Ranked #56 worldwide of 90,000 RE/MAX Realtors, 2003 Listed in the 2004 Heritage Registry of Who’s Who Member of the Concord Chamber of Commerce Member of Oakhurst Country Club

1536 Kirker Pass Road, Suite D Clayton, CA 94517 925-672-4333

Concord/Clayton

Reap the Benefits! Cosmetic fixer upper, sold as is. Great home in Park Pavilion on the Concord/Clayton border. Single story, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, spacious living room, large master bedroom, tons of closet space, inside laundry, nice patio area and 2 car garage. Offered for $499,000

Home Owner’s Pride! Darling well maintained manufactured home. Model year, 2000. Home features include: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, dining area, updated kitchen, located in a very nice family park with 2 swimming pools, spa, billiards room and basketball court, playground and lovely greenbelt area. This is simply a wonderful opportunity!

Offered for $87,500

ING COM N SOO

All Contractors and Investors Welcome! Fixer upper, Sold As Is. Home features are: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and 1,163 square feet of living space and spacious kitchen area. Garage was converted to a 3rd room. A great opportunity for anyone!

Offered for $299,000

Independently owned and operated

www.callthevanfleetteam.com A Must See to Believe! Gorgeous Home in Concord adjacent to Lime Ridge! This Beautiful split level

We love referrals Enjoy a wonderful dinner at the Oakhurst Country Club when you refer a successful buyer or seller to our office.

home features: 4 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths, 3,000 square feet, not including the three car garage being used as a deluxe, fully equipped gym and billiards room. Sit back and relax in this $200,000 state of the art home theatre with 10 foot (horizontal) screen, sound and image quality well beyond THX standards. A must see to believe! Other features include: Formal living and dining rooms, separate family room, wet bar, two way stone fireplace, track & custom lighting, bright sunny kitchen with breakfast nook, $50,000 in flooring (Wilson Art Flooring) and carpet upgrades, marble front entry, privacy windows, beautiful private landscaped back yard with BBQ, gazebo and hot tub for 6. All of the theatre equipment, gym and billiard equipment as well as the appliances are included in the sale of this one of a kind home.

SOL

Offered for $849,000

Page A4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

Arrest near in CVHS vandalism

Ken Ewing

JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

The eye of the eagle on Clayton Valley High School’s new Gonsalves football field has disappeared, but the culprits are close at hand, says CVHS athletic director Pat Middendorf. “We think we have them. We have a really good lead,” she told the Clayton Pioneer at press time. The Clayton Valley Athletic Boosters Club is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator(s). Several leads came in, said Middendorf, but nothing panned out until recently. The theft of the eagle’s eye, which took place over Memorial Day weekend, has incensed students and faculty, particularly since the $8,000 logo was part of a massive fundraising campaign that took several years. Efforts resulted in a multi-million dollar state-of-the-art football field and track at the high school. Middendorf said that the logo repair would cost about $3,000 and that a parent has already donated $1,500 to help with expenses. “It’s 50/50 whether we’ll get the actual eye back,” says Middendorf. But she was hope-

Painting & Decorating More than 30 years experience in the Clayton area

(925) 586-11882 cell

(925) 672-0 0576

license #403772

Now that the rain has come and gone,

let me improve your view with nice shiny windows

SURVEYS THE GAPING HOLE

ful that the responsible vandals would be apprehended and arrested within a few days. She stated that the perpetrators were seen committing the crime and reputable sources who wish to remain anonymous came to the school office and presented strong evidence as to who the responsible parties were. Middendorf was waiting for assistance from the Concord Police to begin the process of

Budget, from page 1

Farm 51

left by vandals in the $8,000 eagles logo.

apprehending the suspects and arresting them.“ It’s really bizarre,” said Middendorf referring to the situation and who was involved. She explained that the 5’ by 3’ section of the eagles eye, made out of Sportexe (plastic-like turf) would be designed and manufactured in Canada and shipped to the school by August. The eye would then be handsewn into the existing logo. CVHS Coach Les Garaventa was the first to sport

Assessment District, Middle School Community Facilities District, Clayton Station Community Facilities District, Capital Equipment Replacement Fund, Restricted Grants, Development Impact Fees,a Community Gym Fund, the Endeavor Hall Fund, the Geological Hazard Abatement District, the High Street and Oak Street Bridge Funds, and the Lydia Lane and Oak Creek Sewer Assessment Districts. The total budget, including the General Fund Budget, the Capital Improvement Budget (Redevelopment Agency money) and the other restricted funds is $13.9 up from $11 million last year.

Seth Ahonen

the vandalism on Monday, May 31 in the afternoon. He had been on the field the day before and the logo was still intact. Ironically, Clayton Valley recently received nearly $40,000 for a camera surveillance system that is scheduled to be installed this summer.

windows washed

Bernie Eddy

inside & out

(925) 914-1049

Open 7 Days a Week

Distinctive Desirable & Divine Just 10 Minutes from Walnut Creek!

Most one story houses $110 and two stories start at $160.

A Cla yton W Clay indow ton resid ent Wash Busi ness er licen sed

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

PAT MIDDENDORF

Reasonable rates

Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5 Desirable Furniture from Lamorinda’s Million Dollar Homes We are easy to find;

Model Home Furniture Just Arrived!

Chameleon 1003 Blackwood Lane

Consignment Lafayette, CA (925) 299-1994

Quality Home Furnishings and Accessories

Take the Central Lafayette Exit from Highway 24, & take a left onto Mt. Diablo Blvd. Blackwood Lane is the third street on the left between Second St. & Brown Ave., just behind the Butler/Conti Dodge Dealership

U H AV E A C H OI CE ! O Y W O N Save Thousands of Dollars

Save Thousands of Dollars Selling your House!

Eagles Peak Realty is a full service brokerage firm who charges only 3.5% total fees to list and sell your home. Typically, if you sold your home for $800,000 you would pay a total of 6% in commission fees or $48,000.

The best real estate agents and the smartest homeowners are demanding

professional home inspections before buying or selling An inspector can find the little problems before they become BIG problems.

What do you look for in choosing a home inspector? Knowledge. A true professional like CHIS will

Legitimacy. A true professional like CHIS will

belong to the California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA) or other reputable industry association, keep current on all building code changes and follows a strict code of ethics.

NOT offer to do home repairs. We carry Errors and Omissions and General Liability Insurance.

Skill. A true professional like CHIS will not shortchange you with a “checklist” report but will provide you with an easy to read report THE DAY AFTER YOUR INSPECTION.

If you use Eagles Peak Realty to sell your home, you pay a TOTAL of 3.5% in commission fees ... on an $800,000 home. That is $28,000!

We can SAVE you $20,000! Call t oday f or a

(925) 4 65-0 0 435

FREE

market a nalysis o f y our h ome.

Or v isit u s o nline a t

www.eaglespeakrealty.com

Satisfied customers. CHIS accurately reports the general condition of a home and its deficiencies. CHIS has more than 14 years experience.

Lori Hilts-Galvin & Roger Galvin

Family owned and operated for over 14 years with two locations to serve you

Clayton office 925-672-9405; Antioch office 925-755-HOME (4663) Email: chisinspector@hotmail.com

Please visit our Website at www.ClaytonHomeInspection.net

Your full service Realty Team

Terry, Mike & Amy Marchione are here to serve you in: Contra Costa, Alameda, Placer, El Dorado, Yolo and Sacramento Counties.

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Classified

Directory of Advertisers

FOR RENT

LOST & FOUND

Vacation Rental - Cabin in Blue Lake Springs (Arnold, CA). Sleeps 6, fully remodeled, quiet, use of recreation facilities. $150/night, $950/week. Call Kevin Parker @ (925) 383-9430 or http://www.vrconnection.com/ parkerpaw.

Lost: Cell Phone. Silver camera phone lost during 5/30 Memorial Day ceremony downtown. Please call 6727309 if found.

Village Oaks Building, corner of Center St. and Marsh Creek Rd. in downtown Clayton. 4500 sq. ft. on the corner of the building and 1150 sq. ft. on the parking lot. Both spaces are on the ground floor. Will consider dividing the larger space. Good possibilities would be a coffee shop/bakery, dry cleaners drop off or bank. Call Stephen Coates, Coates and Sowards, 408-371-8770.

HELP WANTED Childcare job openings - Oakhurst Country Club. Looking for honest, responsible workers with flexible schedule. Please contact Christy at (925) 672-9737 ext. 211

TAMARA

Lost: Wrap around, polarized sunglasses with neck strap. Lost around the second week in May. Probably lost at the Dana Hills or Oakhurst garage sales. Reward. Please call Tami at 672-2223.

AND

P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580 R OBERT S TEINER , Co-Publishers

TAMARA S TEINER , Editor J ILL B EDECARRÉ , Assistant Editor and Display Advertising J IM Z EWAN , Sports P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant

Found: Parakeet - vicinity of Eagle Peak and Keller Ridge. Call 66930047

Member of the California Newspaper Publishers Assoc.

SERVICES

Dog sitting, your house or mine. 8x14 deluxe kennel exclusively yours. Home environment. Your dog will be the only boarder. Boarding fee will be donated to Lab Rescue. 925 672-8122.

The Watering Can. Will hand water and care for your plant containers, flowers and shrubs, front and back during your vacation. Clayton residents preferred. (925) 672-3807. ClatonBrit@AOL.com.

Perennial Garden Design by Nicole Hackett AKA The Garden Girl. Personal consultations regarding plant choices, placement, identification, fertilizing and maintenance. Spring is just around the corner. Call or email for information and pricing. 925-6731746 (leave message) GardenGirl94517@aol.com.

Two credentialed teachers starting an after school program in August. Pick up from school, snack, homework help/tutoring/enrichment. Call Tiffany @ 925-429-1918 or e-mail tiffany@gensburger.com

Substitute school crossing guard to fill in as needed, morning and afternoon. $11.83/hour. Must be over 18. Call Sgt. Shelly Crain at 673-7350.

C o m m u n i ty Connections

Oakhurst Country Club. Full time landscaper/maintenance worker (1), part time morning and evening restaurant servers (2), morning and evening banquet servers (2), morning fitness employee (1). Flexible hours and golf privileges. Fax resume to (925) 6720148, or e-mail gm@oakhurstcc.com; or apply in person at 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.

1-800-WE NEED YOU 1-800-936-3339

Part time retail sales for Winner's Circle western wear and tack store opening soon in Clayton. The store will be open 7 days a week. Flexible schedules available. Pick up application at the Clayton Pioneer office, 6200 F Center Street, Clayton 94517. For questions, call (925) 757-0208. Substitute school crossing guard to fill in as needed, morning and afternoon. $11.83/hour. Must be over 18. Call Sgt. Shelly Crain at 673-7350.

ROBERT SMITH SPCB LICENSE #FR28650 “Ask for Robert Smith” “I’ll give you a discount”

“Serving Clayton area for seven years”

925-757-5890 FAX: 925-778-7907

2515 WEST TENTH STREET ANTIOCH, CA. 94509 www.weneedyou.com

One stop for all your electrical needs

BURKIN ELECTRIC ntial eside

Residential Commercial Industrial

Servic

fans, g, g n i l Cei d lightin g tin sse Rece scape ligh Land R

Page A5

HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance. LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com

Abbey Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 A Clayton Window Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-1049 Aircloud Wireless Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 Alise Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7701 All Loving Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0752 American Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .939-4800 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6622 Bella Mia Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-7792 Benton, Mureleen - American Express . . . . . . . .685-4523 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Café Santee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429-3320 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 Chameleon Consignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .299-1994 City of Clayton Jobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-7300 Clarissa Bridal Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .930-0214 Clark Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5890 Clayton Fitness and Tanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2010 Clayton Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4664 Clayton Home Inspection Services . . . . . . . . . . .672-9405 Clayton Mind & Body Connections . . . . . . . . . . .673-0686 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clip n' Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-9355 College Funding Advisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .933-8100 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 ComUnity Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5363 Concord Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9530 Crocker Insurance Agency - Sam Totah . . . . . . .941-1536 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . .524-5100 Eagles Peak Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .465-0435 Elysium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1333 Englund's Tea Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8327 ESI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .969-1477 Executive-Style Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .683-9262 Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Coldwell Banker Real Estate . . .672-8787 Golden Light Candles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-3461 Gregory, Cynthia - Permanent Solution . . . . . . . .286-5162 Help You Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-4950 Hot Basil Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288-0000 Hudak, Jim - Pianist and Composer . . . . . . . . . .673-7293 Instant Imprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9815 Integrity Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-493-5437x402 Joanna's Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8911 Ken Ewing Painting and Decorating . . . . . . . . . .586-1882 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Landman Consulting Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8817 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .939-7920 Law Office of Richard Littorno . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Lerner Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-1130 Mary's Pizza Shack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .938-4800 Maverick's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-5600 Mazzei Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5600 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Morningside Horse Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3632 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . .280-8563 Mountain Mike's Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4965 Neptune Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-5100 Northgate Gardening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-8711 Northshore Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .439-3333 Oakhurst County Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Pasta Primavera Café & Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-5300 Pavilion Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6868 Petar Guest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2841 Pro Tech Heating and Air Conditioning . . . . . . . .673-3776 R&M Pool, Patio & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0207 Robin's Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-6105 Sears Carpet Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0836 Sellers, Nicole - Diablo Funding . . . . . . . .227-0100 x 128 Skip's Happy Hammer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9433 Smith Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6461 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 St. John's Episcopal Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8855 Stone Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-2094 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 The James Gang . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .974-7678 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Truesdell, Lisa - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . .686-4747 Unique Hair & Nails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-7278 Van-Fleet-Bronson, Intero Real Estate Services .672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . .672-2300 Velocity Sports Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .363-0066 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . .672-4433 Walcutt, Bill - Prudential Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .437-5535 We The People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246-0370 Wine Thieves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4003 Zandonella's Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-1700

10% di ad for a on all scount service s.

ne o Ph

Expire s 7/1/0 5

R IC

Sole proprietorship all work done by owner

SPECI AL FO CLAYT ON RES R ID Mentio n this a ENTS:

Are you looking for that perfect horse set-u up? ELECT

Burkin Electric

BURK

www.robinsranches.com

(925) 672-1 1519

ll Ce

(925) 212-3 3339ates

James J. Burkin, Owner

License: C10-631523

ree

im est

CONCORD HORSE LOVERS Just Listed! Great 3 Bedroom home. Just too much to list. At this price it won’t last. Bring your horses. 4341 Rose Lane

WALNUT CREEK New listing. This NORTHGATE Ranch Style has plenty of everything. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Top Schools. Great price.

Specialist in Ranch and Country Property. Robin has ranches in Richmond, Stockton & a whole bunch in between.

$650,000

2833 San Antonio Dr.

DUBLIN TOWNHOUSE New paint. New carpets. New landscaping. 4 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath. SHARP AND SPOTLESS!

$795,000

in Pend

$618,000 Thinking of selling? Robin’s Ranches web page gets over 6,000 viewings a month

Robin’s Ranches (925) 672-7 7323 / 550-2 2383 Full Broker Co-operation on all Robin’s Ranches listings

For more pictures of these properties and many more of Robin’s Ranches, go to www.robinsranches.com

Kropa Realty Walnut Creek, CA

robin@robinsranches.com

Page A6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Fathers, from page 1 grow up with him,” says Paul. He and Heather are the proud parents of a new son Justin, born just 10 months ago. Paul’s first Father’s Day brings thoughts of excitement and love. “Justin has already brought a lot of love into the family,” he says. While the Grays will spend time with family this Father’s Day, they love the outdoors and Justin has already participated in several camping trips with his parents. Paul is an avid cross country bike enthusiast and is traveling all over the country to compete. He hopes

that some day Justin will share his passion for the sport. KEVIN PARKER: “Originally Father’s Day meant finding time to spend with Dad,” says Kevin Parker who become a first-time father just a few months ago. “You know, the guy who picked you up when you skinned your knee, taught you to ride a bike and helped you hit a fast ball.” He has fond memories of a Giant’s Game or a day outdoors which is how he has spent the past dozen or so Sundays in June. However, now the term

Mayor, from page 1 open the Community Park and check for irrigation problems. If there are any, they have to assess the damage and complete the repairs. They next pick up trash at the Community Park, Lydia Lane Park and North Valley Park, including policing the grounds for trash that didn’t make it to the receptacles. Next it’s on to the Dog Park to pick up the trash, check the doggie bags and police the area for trash. When all that’s done, they perform weed abatement throughout the open space. They also trim landscape, spray or remove weeds, remove dead plants and repair the irrigation systems. These last three tasks are started in June and the crew works through the city from east to west. Tuesday is much the same with the addition of setting up the meeting room for the City Council or Planning Commission meetings. Wednesday they are still moving west with weed abatement, trimming the live plants and removing the dead ones while repairing the irrigation system. They also take down the meeting room set up for the City Council or Planning Commission meeting. Thursday sees a change of pace. They still open the Community Park in the morning and check it for irrigation problems, but every other week they now mow, trim and edge the grass in the Community Park, Lydia Lane Park and North Valley Park; the downtown area, the library, the grounds around City Hall, the City Fountain and all the small city-owned lawns throughout town. These activities replace weed abatement, trimming, weed and dead plant removal and irrigation repair. Friday gets even busier as the maintenance workers make sure the city is ready for the weekend. They open the Community Park and resolve any irrigation problems. They then pick up the trash in all the parks, check the Dog Park doggie bags and pick up the trash

downtown, policing the entire downtown for scattered trash. They also complete all Municipal Service Requests. Every other week they finish mowing the lawns, participate in the required department safety meeting and perform any necessary equipment maintenance. They sharpen blades, check fluids, grease fittings, tighten bolts and other minor repairs. Add to this, the maintenance of the city vehicles and all that entails. On alternating weeks they do the required building maintenance of the Library, City Hall, Endeavor Hall and city owned buildings downtown. They do minor sign repair and installation. If time permits they continue moving west with weed abatement in the open space and making repairs to the irrigation system. This weekly schedule would keep you and your neighbors very busy. And it does keep the maintenance crew busy, but landscaping maintenance is not all that they have to do. They also need to coordinate city work with contractors such

“Father” has taken on a whole new meaning for Kevin. “Now I’m the dad and all of a sudden there is this 8 pound, 3 week old little human being that looks like

“Just the thought of raising my family in Clayton in the shadows of Mt. Diablo, embedded in a wonderful community where people care is my utopian reality” Kevin Parker as tree trimming, street patching and paving, building AC maintenance, and pest control. They repair unexpected irrigation breaks citywide. They deal with vandalism. They set up for citysponsored events such as Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. They turn the fountain on and off when we have city sponsored events. They have administrative duties such as purchasing, responding to citizen concerns, paper work, license and certification meetings and mandatory classes. They respond to emergency situations which require immediate attention, or high priority items such as assisting at traffic accidents, dealing with fallen trees or ground slides, vandalism, graffiti removal and addressing urgent safety concerns. I hope this gives you a clearer picture of what the city’s maintenance crew does on a day-to-day basis. We are blessed as a city to have such dedicated workers. If you want additional information on the landscaping and the Blue Ribbon Landscaping Committee findings and recommendations, it is available in your copy of the latest issue of “Clayton News, the

June 17, 2005

me (let’s hope he never acts like me).” “Just the thought of raising my family in Clayton in the shadows of Mt. Diablo, embedded in a wonderful community where people care is my utopian reality”. So while most watch their dad receive his sixteenth necktie in a row and enjoy a day of celebrating the man at the head of the dinner table, explains Kevin, He’ll be doing much of the same with his dad. “Except this time, he’ll be smiling from across the room, watching the newest generation of the Parker Family and knowing that this is what life is all about!” city’s newsletter. I am also interested in hearing your questions and concerns about the city’s maintenance district and what needs to be done. Please send them to me at City Hall or through the Clayton Web site www.ci.clayton.ca.us/. Just click the top right tab that says “ Feedback.” Then click the “contact us” tab and sent me your question. I would also note this is the best way to report a problem to the city. Under the contact us tab is the “report a problem “ tab. There are a number of pre-selected items and an area for comments. In closing, I have been disturbed by the amount of vandalism being inflicted on the city’s landscaping. Recently, 150 sprinkler heads were vandalized in the area adjacent to the Bridlewood subdivision. The Landscape District spent sixty man-hours repairing the damage. The cost to the District was $ 2,840. This equates to the total assessment of twenty-three households. I am offering a reward of $500 for the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible. I hope this has been helpful.

Est.1972

Smith & Bernal

Roofing Reroofs z Repairs z All Types Tile repairs z Wood shake z Tar and gravel Gutters z Inspections z Ventilation

ReRoof Specialists Same day response

(925) 216-6461 Free estimates

Purchase or Refinance contact

Ted Sudderth Established 1980

Contact Ted

for a free loan evaluation

DOC# 415-0005

Licensed by the Department of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act.

Northshore Construction Call an expert Custom remodeling you can trust & new construction

Window change outs, Cabinetry, Bathroom and Kitchen remodels

925.439.3333 Shawn Maldonado Fifth generation general contractor Family business for over 100 years Clayton resident, building for 27 years

We can make your home look beautiful Abbey Carpets/Contra Costa Floors Use our Abbey Credit Plan and get six months to pay --

INTEREST FREE!

C ARPET V INYL H ARDWOOD C ERAMIC T ILE L AMINATE W INDOW FASHIONS Visit our showroom M-F 9-5; Sat. 10-4 Commercial. Residential.

Expert installation. Free in-home consultation

(925) 686-9901

STRAIGHT LINE IMPORTS Fabrication a nd I nstallation o f: Countertops z Bar/Vanity Tops Bath/ Shower Enclosures z Fireplace CUSTOM, A MERICAN-M M ADE C ABINETS EXCEPTIONAL V ALUE A ND P RICING Full Service Remodeling Available Specializing In Kitchen & Baths

FREE ESTIMATES

925.335.9801 LOCAL SHOWROOM

GRANITE z MARBLE LIMESTONE z TRAVERTINE References Available Upon Request!

984 Howe Road, Martinez Locally Owned & Operated! “Specializing in Servicing Clayton”

Lic # 789325

(925) 672-5363

6200 Center St., #230, Clayton

Remodeling or buying new?

www.straightlineimports.com

ComUnity Lending

Your local loan expert offering more than 25 years of excellent service and LOW, COMPETITIVE RATES.

Lic. 701821

1170 Burnett Ave. Ste. E Concord

Clayton resident

Lic. Number 727021

925-941-1536

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Northgate Gardening Landscaping Maintenance Sod Lawns Sprinkler Systems Shrub Plantings

Jim Lamp Before you landscape call for a consultation

d sa

g nd

(925) 944-8711

t ion

Servicing Contra Costa since 1977 locally owned, owner operated

f ot jfob

% firs 0 ur o 1 y

/05

/17

Alise Interiors & HomeStaging ®

Time to Sell?

The Hottest tool in home sales is Staging! An accredited ASPM Stager® is the professional you want to help set your home apart from other listings, and make your property a $uccess $ale. A small investment prior to listing will maximize the return on your biggest investment, even over asking price bids. Staging can be as simple as rearranging your furnishings, or low cost rental of furniture, art, floral and other Staging accessories.

We help buyers fall in love with your house, inside and out!

Shannon Collyer’s passion is service JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

In her Salutatorian speech to the class of 2005 at Carondelet High School, Shannon Collyer talked about how God’s presence helped her classmates through some of the adversities they experienced during their four years together. There was 9/11, the Tsunami and their principal being diagnosed with breast cancer. In her daily life, Shannon’s faith in God greatly directs the way she lives. “My faith motivates me a lot,” she says. Shannon’s long list of awards reflects the type of person she is and the way she chooses to spend her time and energy. She was awarded the prestigious Concord Youth Scholarship sponsored by the Concord Human Relations Committee, the Daughters of the American Revolution good citizenship award, Prudential Spirit of Community award, two Soroptimists scholarships and an award from Contra Costa County for community

Michelle Emry makes Dean’s List M i ch e l l e Emry made the dean’s list at the University of Portland by achieving a grade point average of 3.5 or better. Michelle is a freshman majoring in social work. She is the daughter of Mike and Jeanne Emry of Clayton and a 2004 graduate of Clayton Valley High School.

Call and schedule your complimentary bid.

672-77701

aliseinteriors.com Please shop Clayton

6001 Morgan Territory Road

Clayton Canyon Pony Club Mounted Meeting & Father's Day BBQ Sunday, June 19 All are welcome to come and watch!

Monthly Clinics David Adamo Jumping Gina Duran Dressage

involvement. Shannon was Homecoming Queen for the virtue of faith and she clocked in more than 2,000 hours of community service to earn the President’s volunteer service award. She admits she is greatly influenced by her mother and father. Her mom, Patty, recently was honored by the Concord

counselor for St. Bonaventure’s Youth group whenever she can. She admits that her time for fun is interwoven in the myriad of the activities that she participates in, from bible camp counselor at St. Bonaventure’s and volunteer work at the Monument Crisis Center in Concord to her role as youth educator at Christ the King middle school in Pleasant Hill. She also served as a Peer counselor for high school freshman at Carondelet and she was the Social Justice Coordinator for the Spiritual Life group at the high school. She even found time for recreational activities. “I love to swim,” she says. She was captain of the JV Swim team at Carondelet for three years. Currently, she works at the YMCA, which she describes as “the best job ever.” And despite a job, counseling activities and preparing for college, Shannon will even find time for a vacation this summer. She and her family are planning to take a much-needed vacation to the Caribbean.

Heisinger and Rahimzadeh named CVHS outstanding freshmen CVHS freshmen, Luke Heisinger and Vaso Rahimzadeh, both of Clayton, were chosen for this year’s Outstanding Student Award. The two were honored at the June 6 Renaissance Assembly at Clayton Valley High School. Each year, teachers and faculty members choose two exceptional students,

home of

Royal Connemara’s

David Adamo is an

"A" graduate of United States Pony Club, USPC "A" rated instructor, Coach of USPC Championship teams and a USEA level 3 certification candidate.

one boy and one girl, for this award. Nominations are based on exceptional academic performance, participation in athletics, campus clubs and other activities as well as involvement in civic and community affairs.

NICK HEISINGER AND VASO RAHIMZADEH

Photos may not depict the typical home.

Step 2: Remove Dirt & Residue

Sears Two-Step Deep-Clean Process

Sears Specialized Air Duct Cleaning Before & After

America’s largest carpet manufacturer recommends the Two-Step Deep-Clean Process used by Sears over the one-step process offered by many other companies. Two-step cleaning removes dirt, along with cleaning solution residue to leave carpets looking clean and feeling soft again.

The Sears source removal process uses powerful vacuum equipment and specialized tools to safely remove years of accumulated allergens, dirt and debris from your home’s heating and cooling air ducts.

Call Now 925-524-0836

www.searsclean.com

Valid on residential orders and single furnace homes only. Extra charge may apply for homes with furnaces that are not easily accessible. An area is defined as a room, hall, bath, landing or walk-in closet. Combination areas and areas over 250 sq. ft. are considered as separate areas. Prices may vary for wool and oriental carpet. Carpet protector or deodorizer each available at added cost. Minimum order may apply. Offer/service not available in all areas. Call for details. Not valid with other coupons or offers. Service performed by Sears associates or franchisees. Offer expires 6/30/2005. Void where prohibited. Sears cards are issued by Citibank USA, N.A.

REBECCA HOOBLER

Clayton Valley High School (CVHS) senior Rebecca Hoobler offered a drama workshop for students at Diablo View Middle School (DVMS) as part of her senior project at the high school. Rebecca, who was a member of the Clayton Valley Arts Academy taught 13 students and the workshop was a success. The collaborative effort between CVHS

CVHS Class of ‘95 plans 10 year reunion

672-3132 - PONY CLUB 672-3632 - BOARDING 672-2874 - CLINICS/CAMP/INSTRUCTION

Step 1: Loosen Dirt

SHANNON COLLYER

Human Relations Committee and received the Humanitarian Award for her work with youth groups. It was actually participating in several of her mom’s activities for the St. B o n a v e n t u r e ’s C a t h o l i c Community youth ministry where Shannon discovered her true desire to serve. She spent time at the St. A n t h o n y Foundation in San Francisco where she was up close and personal with the homeless and less fortunate. “ I have found my passion in community service, that’s what I want to do with the rest of my life. I have compassion for the less fortunate.” Shannon who will attend Sonoma State in the fall has already checked out similar community programs and she has vowed to spend time as a

Rebecca Hoobler helps build drama link

Upcoming Events 6115 Morgan Territory Road

Page A7

Clean Three Areas $99 Sale Save $20 (reg price $119) Whole House Carpet Cleaning $199 Sale 6 Areas plus Hall Save $56 (reg price: $255) Air Duct Cleaning $249 Sale Up to 8 Vents Save $20 (reg price $269)

Join friends from the class of 1995 Saturday, July 23 at Oakhurst

Country Club for a ten year reunion, 7 p.m. 12 a.m. $77 per person.

and DVMS was established to build a drama link between the two schools, since budget cuts have left Diablo View without a drama program. DVMS seventh grader Elena Nielsen was excited about the workshop. “She (Rebecca) taught us by using games as the activities that would help us build our acting abilities,” she said.

No tickets will be sold at the door. Checks can be sent to Reunion Makers, 213 W. Foley Avenue, Eufaula, OK 74432 or register online at www.reunionmakers.com.

A new look for Spring recover that comfortable old sofa or armchair with fabrics to coordinate the whole room, everything from paint to bedding, sofas, drapes and those all important finishing touches.

Why buy new when you can re-do?

Call Joanna at (925) 673-8911 Clayton Resident

Page A8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

Price your home right the first time for quick sale Selling fast is often the key to selling for the most money. Listings that don’t sell quickly — that is, within a month or so of hitting the market — are usually overpriced for the market. When over-priced listings do sell, they often sell for less than they would have if they’d been priced right to begin with. Proper pricing is perhaps the most critical factor affecting the time it takes for a listing to sell. A listing is most marketable when it’s new on the market. Real estate agents and their buyers wait anxiously for new listings. They rush to see them before they’re sold. If a listing doesn’t sell during the initial marketing effort, the showing activity usually falls off as buyers turn their attention to

new listings. Establishing a good list price is not an exact science. It’s easier to do in some neighborhoods than in others. Tract homes are relatively easy to price because one house is very similar to

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ESTATE

another. Homes located in a neighborhood with a diverse housing stock will be more difficult to price. The market value of a property is the price a willing and able buyer will pay. To accurately price your home, you first need to determine the likely market value for your home by comparing your home to other similar homes in your neighborhood that have recently sold. By objectively comparing your home to the others, you can determine how much a buyer will be likely to pay. Buyers determine market price, not sellers. Don’t trust yourself alone to make an accurate determination of the market value of your home. Sellers often have

a difficult time being objective. To look objectively at your home, you need to put yourself in the buyer’s shoes and look at your home from a buyer’s perspective. One good reason for hiring a real estate professional is to get help with important decisions like selecting the list price for your home. Choose your agent carefully; hire someone with experience, a good track record and integrity. Then put your trust in this person and follow his or her advice about how best to maximize the return on your investment. Property condition is almost as important as pricing. Buyers pay more for homes that are in move-in condition. Real estate agents like to bring their buyers

Burkin Electric lights up your life JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Lighting up your life is what Jim Burkin does best. As the sole proprietor of Burkin Electric, Jim handles all of your residential, commercial, industrial and remodeling needs. He believes in doing all the work by himself in order to provide excellent customer service and a quality product. With summer fast approaching, Burkin is ready to provide free estimates for residential ceiling fans, recessed lighting and landscape lighting, service and repair work. He

brings a wealth of experience to every job. Jim has devoted his 28-year career to the electrical industry working in a variety of venues that make him a wellrounded electrician. “I’ve followed my dad’s advice and explored all the options. I’ve enjoyed learning the full spectrum of the trade,” he says. Jim is currently doing work for the Hanson Quarry on Pine Hollow Road and he’s busy keeping up with the demand for his work in the residential area. He brings his electrical expertise to all types of residences from multi-family and tract housing to estate homes.

When Jim isn’t out in the field helping customers with their electrical needs, he’s spending time with his wife and high school sweetheart, Kathy and their two children Rosalie and Emily. Jim is also active in the community having coached St. Bonaventure’s CYO girls basketball teams for 10 seasons and the Clayton Valley High School LaCrosse team at Carondelet and Clayton Valley High School. Jim’s future goals include staying close to home and family and continuing to be a part of the community.

JIM BURKIN

Take a little R&R at Clayton Mind & Body Connections JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

For the past five years, Clayton Mind and Body Connections on Oak Street has been helping residents wind down, heal and relax. Owner David Godsoe has kept his local business focused on two specific areas, skin care and massage therapy. “That’s the way we want it,” says Godsoe explaining that his intent when he purchased the business in 2000 was to keep the offerings limited so that clients could expect the best care in both disciplines. A variety of facials are offered including enzyme, glycolic and pumpkin peels. “There are so many techniques and products out there, that people

need a professional to guide them to the right treatment for their individual skin needs,” says David. His staff is also dedicated to helping people ease their pain and stress through massage therapy. Techniques that are used range from deep tissue and Swedish style to reflexology, hot stones and aromatherapy. Godsoe and his staff treat clients who have had injuries, suffer from pain and who are experiencing stress in their lives. Godsoe recommends a combination of physical therapy and massage, especially for those who have sports injuries or injury from an auto accident. “It’s never just one thing that takes care of the problem,” says David. He explains that his massage therapy is an important part

The sellers waited a week or two before listening to any offers. This often resulted in multiple offers from competing buyers and a sale price for more than the asking price. The above pricing strategy is not effective for all markets. But regardless of the market, it’s usually best to list for a price that’s close to the expected selling price. That is, as long as your agent aggressively exposes your home to the market before you accept an offer. For any real estate needs or questions contact Lynne at: Phone (925) 672-8787 or E-mail: Lynne@LynneFrench.com

HERE’S

HOW TO LOWER YOUR MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT Free Recorded Message reveals “How to cash in on lower interest rates.” 1-925-227-1064 ext. 120 Special - Could you be overpaying on your mortgage and not even know it? Many homeowners are finding that it’s just not worth it to keep on paying thousands in interest every month instead of knowing exactly what they could be paying by refinancing now while interest rates are low. This informative FREE recorded message will answer a lot of the questions you have about refinancing and give you information about a FREE Refinance Home Loan Finder Service that shows you:

How to calculate how much extra interest you’re paying on your mortgage every month. z Exactly where to find lower interest rates that could save you money. z Where to find loans that can both lower your monthly mortgage payments and give you cash back. z How to refinance your mortgage with no out of pocket costs to you. You can get all the details in a FREE recorded message by calling (925) 227-1064 ext. 120.

LOOKING FOR A CONTRACTOR YOU CAN TRUST TO DO QUALITY WORK? YOU’VE FOUND US! DAdditions DWindows/Doors DRemodeling DCrown Molding DDecks DSiding DOverhangs DTrim license# 783799, B, HIC

DAVID GODSOE specializes in facials and message therapy. of the solution to injuries. “ I love this city,” which is why David purchased the business and what motivates him to commute everyday from Livermore. He also enjoys the feeling that goes along with helping people feel better. “Any day with less pain is a good day,” says David. All of the massage therapists that work at Clayton Mind and Body are well-trained and graduates of a certified massage school. One member of his staff has eleven years experience

Tired of those Reading Glasses?

Exciting new non-laser procedure to rid yourself of reading glasses! z

First and only CK provider in the East Bay

Three-minute, noninvasive, radio wave, in-office treatment

Call for a free screening today!

Hilary Jon Lerner, M.D. Eye Physician & Surgeon

“Modern technology” with old-ffashioned care.

to homes that show well—ones that require no apology or explanation. Usually, the more showings there are, the quicker the sale and the higher the price. The other ingredient necessary for a fast sale at a good price is market exposure. Some sellers worry about a quick sale because they fear that if they sell the house quickly they might sell for too low a price. In reality, you only risk selling too low if you don’t expose the property properly to the market. Last year, in this area, the most successful pricing strategy was to list on the low side. Then the listing was exposed to the market — with advertising, multiple listing and open houses.

“The doctor that physicians choose”

Concord (925) 685-1130 Pittsburg (925) 432-9300 San Ramon (925) 820-9600

in massage therapy. One of the best complements for any of his massage therapists is to have a client fall asleep during the procedure. “That means they have total trust in their therapist and are completely relaxed.” To celebrate the five-year anniversary of Clayton Mind and Body, Godsoe invites residents to stop by on July 2 and 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and enjoy wine and food and the ambiance of this peaceful retreat in downtown Clayton.

free estimates Recommended by Realtor of the Year, Lynne French

$50 of f on jobs of $500 or more Expires 7/15/05 One Coupon per job

Tipperary Construction, Inc. General Contractor Clayton resident

Declan Woods Noel O’ Meara 925. 216-2679 925. 518-0821 fax:672-7055

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A9

Recording with Will Ackerman - A legend: Part 2 In my last column, I was about to hop a plane to New York, then drive from there to Vermont for some recording

sessions with Will Ackerman at his studio. Happily, the trip went well, the recording sessions transpired, and I’ve got plenty

The UPS Store

Independently owned and operated

Let us be your professional assistant. We are here to help you with your needs:

Mailbox Service Notary Copying Fax Packaging/Moving Box Shipping (low UPS® shipping rates same as the UPS Hub). Clayton/Concord Location:

Store Hours M-F 8-7 Sat 9-5

Vineyard Shopping Center

5100 Clayton Road Concord, CA 94523 ph: 925-689-6245

BUYERS AND SELLERS!

Put the BEST to work for you PETE LAURENCE’S roots go deep into the Clayton soil. He’s lived here since 1954 and was a member of the Clayton Valley High School Class of ‘63. His long relationship with Clayton has given him a thorough knowledge of its history and a good perspective on its future. A CIVIC MINDED MAN, Pete began his public service in Viet Nam, serving with the Green Berets. Continuing at the local level, he has been president of the Clayton Business and Community Association, and has served three times as the mayor of Clayton. PETE

to write about. The piano tested out wonAs I was there in mid-April, derfully. The action was easy, it was like stepping back into and the feel was just right. For winter. Though the weather was lack of a better description, it sunny the whole time, it was was like running my fingers cold, with nightthrough melted time temperatures butter that just dipping into the happened to have 20s and patches a wonderful of snow still on sound, emanating the ground. None through the of the trees had room like warm leaves, though Vermont maple they all had their syrup. (OK, buds ready to maybe that’s layburst forth into a ing it on a bit world of fresh thick, but I just JIM HUDAK green that I had to mention wouldn’t be lucky thing MUSIC NOTES the enough to see on Vermont is most this trip. But cerfamous for tainly, the folks of Vermont somewhere in this story, didn’t were ready for spring. I?) Will’s home and his adjacent Will and I met briefly that recording studio are located first night and made sure everynear Brattleboro, Vt., just a few thing was ready for our week of miles north of the recording to follow. The next Massachusettes border. It was morning, we met with Taylor fun driving from crowded New Barefoot, who would be engiYork City into New England, neering our sessions, and spent with traffic getting progressively a couple hours fine-tuning lighter and the scenery more microphone placement. We lovely the further north I drove. used six microphones for our I checked into my Brattleboro sessions, including two that hotel and took the 15-minute were placed in the ceiling, about drive to the studio for a test run 15 feet above the piano, in order on the 9-foot Yamaha concert to obtain the ambience of the grand piano I had rented and studio’s specially built “tracking delivered to the studio for the room.” After some trial and occasion. error, we got the microphones

to reproduce the piano sound we wanted and proceeded to get down to some serious recording. For you recording enthusiasts out there, we were recording with the latest version of ProTools. It is the definitive music industry recording software used on the vast majority of commercially released recordings nowadays. In fact, my previous four Will Ackerman and Jim Hudak CDs were recorded on earlier versions of ProTools. into the chilly Vermont night, I Among its many outstanding looked forward to starting again features, it offers easy and multi- in the morning. More unexpected twists and faceted “editing” capabilities, meaning that correcting mis- turns developed throughout the takes and making little changes week. But we would end up with to recordings is almost as quick an inordinate amount of finand easy as correcting typing ished recorded piano tracks and songs. More about that next errors on a word processor. But working with sound and time… dynamics and music in general can be slow and tedious in the Jim Hudak’s Music Notes colrecording environment. That umn appears regularly in the first day, we ended up with only Pioneer. Contact him at jimmyone finished and edited track. dak@pacbell.net. His piano music But we had ironed out some CD’s are available from his Web quirks, and the three of us, Will, site at www.jhudak.com or at Taylor, and I, had gotten amazon.com. acquainted. As we dispersed

HAS BEEN SUCCESSFULLY SELLING HOMES,

condos and land in Contra Costa and Clayton since 1969 and has personally closed over $250 million in sales. He is consistently a TOP PRODUCER, highly respected by his fellow Realtors.

Clayton students urged to apply for scholarship

PETE’S EXPERIENCE WITH INVESTING is rock solid. He can also handle relocations, tax deferred exchanges guaranteed sales, equity advances and swing loans. When it’s time to BUY or SELL, remember . . . It costs no more to put the BEST to work for you. Office: (925) 939-7920 Fax: (925) 939-1939 VM 24 hr: (925) 940-2777

PETE LAURENCE Broker-Owner, Realtor, GRI

1511 Treat Blvd. #100, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

The MassMutual Foundation and True North Financial Group have announced a $525,000 scholarship program that will fund 105 college scholarships over the next three years. Students are encouraged to apply for this $5,000 national scholarship as part of a threeyear, $525,000 national scholar-

am home is e r d r u a mou o Y se click away

e s u T Make the BES time of your valuable Get pre-approved today No offer should be without it

Purchase & Refinance

Shop for your new home online for free Use the Home Buyers Scouting Report

Customized profile for your price range, home style and neighborhood 24-hour access Spam free No sales pressure Maps and directions*

Fixed or adjustable rates Interest only payment options First-time home buyer program with down payment assistance and below market rates 100% financing CalPers mortgages 1% start rate with The POWER ARM, 500 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 290, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 APR 3.76%**

ship program to be administered on behalf of the MassMutual Foundation by the USTA Tennis and Education Foundation. “Through this innovative scholarship program, the aim is to help talented students achieve their dream of attaining a college education,” said Tony Delumen, owner of True North Financial

Cruise Adventures Unlimited Cruising is our only business Serving all cruise lines since 1987

PRINCESS CRUISES ONE WEEK SALE

June 20 through June 25, 2005 Reduced deposits and special amenities 2006/2007 Itineraries are available for booking

Alaska z Europe z Asia z South America Panama Canal z Mexico z Caribbean South Pacific z Canada z New England Call NOW for Early Booking Discounts! call m-f 9-5:30, Sat 10-2

(925) 935-7447

* Information and display restrictions may apply in some markets because of local rules and regulations. **The interest rate may change after consummation. Negative amortization may occur.

help you o t e r e h e r ’ e W

Licensed by the Department of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. The Home Buyers Scouting Report® (HBSR) is a free home finding service of Home Buyers Marketing II, Inc. (HBM II) a licensed real estate company. HBM II provides the Report directly to homebuyers through a secure, password-protected online service. Information and display restrictions may apply in some markets because of local rules and regulations. The Real Estate Agent and Home Buyers Marketing II, Inc. (HBM II) are cooperating licensed real estate professionals. The Real Estate Agent is neither an agent nor a broker for HBM II, but works cooperatively with HBM II to assist in your home scouting efforts. The Preferred Loan Officer's role is to assist in determining a comfortable monthly payment and price range for Home Buyers Marketing II, Inc. (HBM II) to use when it is searching for properties within your search criteria. The Preferred Loan Officer is neither an employee of HBM II, nor the provider of the Home Buyers Scouting Report® (HBSR). ©Copyright 2004 Home Buyers Marketing, II, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 05052071-AHMLR

www.cruiseadventuresunliminted.com

Kristine Thinger

Sherrie Fico Clayton resident for 14 years

925-939-4800 510-816-8638 (cell)

925-939-4800 925-980-4046 (cell)

kristine.thinger@americanhm.com

sherrie.fico@americanhm.com

tions along with their recommendations to the Foundation Scholarship Committee. The following elements of each application are reviewed: academic grades, essay, financial need, community service involvement, participation in USTA tennis programs and letters of recommendation. Applications are available at www.usta.com.

New Play and Learn Area for Library Tiny tots and their parents have a brand new place to Play and Learn at the Clayton Community Library. The Area was funded by a grant from First 5 Contra Costa, which administers the proceeds of the 50-cent a pack cigarette tax authorized by the voters in 1998. The Play and Learn Area has comfortable chairs for parents and tots to play with puzzles, busy boxes, letter boards and puppets to help develop early reading skills. Over two hundred new parenting books will be added to the parent collection shelved in this new area.

CST 2074362-40

Richard A. Littorno Littorno & Morrison, Attorneys At Law Since 1979

Living trusts z wills z elder law z Probate & trust administration z Creative estate & tax planning z Asset protection & general business z

Clayton office:

Clayton resident for 6 years

Owners Valerie O’Connell (Clayton resident, 25 years) & daughter Colleen O’Connell

1610 Locust St., Walnut Creek

AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE

APR based on a $400,000 loan with 20% down payment.

Group and a resident of Clayton. To apply, students should demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence, tennis and community service, as well as financial need. The application process includes input from each USTA Section, which ranks candidates from their respective region and forwards the applica-

6160 Center St., Suite D Clayton, CA 94517 Phone: (925) 672-6463 Fax: (925) 672-6468 rlittorno@msn.com

Pittsburg office:

2211 Railroad Ave. Pittsburg, CA 94565 Phone: (925) 432-4211 Fax: 432-3516 Estateplanning.com/Littorno

Page A10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

Some cool facts about cucumbers ‘Tis not her coldness, father, That chills my labouring breast; It’s that confounded cucumber I’ve ate and can’t digest.” Richard Harris Barham (1788-1845) Cucumbers are fruits (not vegetables!) related to pumpkins, zucchini, and watermelon. They originated in India several thousand years ago and spread to China, Greece, North Africa and Asia Minor by the beginning of the Christian era. Columbus introduced them to the Caribbean during his explorations, and within 100 years American Indians in Florida, Virginia, and Massachusetts were cultivating them. They’ve been the revered food of many a notable historical figure. Emperor Tiberius of Rome (14-37 A.D.) insisted on a daily dish of cucumbers, forcing his horticulturists to find a way to grow them year-round. It’s said that they used wheelbarrows and moved them around the garden and into the sun every day to force their growth. Emperor Charlemagne of France ordered cucumbers be grown in his gardens so they could be on his table as frequently as possible. General Ulysses S. Grant, who fought for the North in the U.S. Civil War and became the 18th President, reputedly had battlefield meals of sliced cucumbers and a cup of coffee. The phrase “cool as a cucumber” is the subject of much debate. Some pundits claim that there is no data that supports the idea that a cucum-

ber is cooler on the inside than outside air. Others, however, claim that it’s as much as 20° cooler. The typical Persian cucumber we Americans purchase in markets is about 6” to 8” long with a shiny (often enhanced by wax) dark green and slightly

isfy American tastes?) Cucumbers are about 95 percent water, and have little nutritional value. Samuel Johnson is quoted by James Boswell to have said, “A cucumber should be well sliced, and dressed with pepper and vinegar, and then thrown out, as good for nothing.” Nevertheless, they are a tasty ingredient in many cool and savory dishes. If you’ve ever enjoyed a gyro sandwich at a Greek restaurant, you likely received a yogurtcucumber sauce with it. It is very good with cold roast meats and as a dressing for Greek feta salads:

TZATZIKI SAUCE 1 c plain unsweetened yogurt LINDA WYNER 1/2 c cucumber, peeled, seedFOOD FOR THOUGHT ed and minced 1 clove garlic 1 tsp white wine vinegar bumpy exterior. The pale green1 tsp chopped fresh mint ish-white flesh has soft, edible ¼ tsp dried dill (or 1 tsp fresh seeds, although many prefer to dill, chopped) remove the seeds for certain Salt and pepper to taste dishes. Lemon cucumbers are Drain yogurt (in coffee filter about the size of a lemon and have a yellow-to-gold colored or cheesecloth) for about two skin. West Indian gherkins hours at room temperature. (which are really a different Mix cucumber with ½ tsp salt species) are about an inch long, and let drain through a colander while English hothouse cucum- for half an hour, then press out bers can extend 20 inches or excess moisture, quickly rinse more. The English cucumber is and dry. Mash garlic in ? tsp salt and unique in that it has tiny or nonexistent seeds, and is considered combine with thickened yogurt, to be “burpless” when con- cucumber and remaining ingresumed. Pickling cucumbers are dients. Taste and adjust seasonstubby, bumpy skinned fruits ing as needed. A favorite Scandinavian that appear in late summer, just in time for canning season. (Did summer dish is cold cucumber you know that the perfect pickle soup. Here is one version that should have seven “warts” takes a little time but is worth (bumps) per square inch to sat- every sip

CUCUMBER SOUP 1 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced AND 1 cucumber, seeded and grated 2 Tbsp. butter 1 leek (white part), sliced 1 bay leaf 1 Tbsp. flour 2 c chicken broth ½ c cream or half-and-half 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice Fresh dill, chopped ½ c sour cream Melt butter in skillet and add bay leaf. Add sliced cucumber and leek, and cook until soft. Do not brown. Discard bay leaf and stir in flour. Cook for one minute and then slowly add chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 30 minutes. Puree soup in food processor or blender and chill for several hours. Add grated cucumber, cream, lemon juice, fresh dill and add salt and white pepper to taste. Serve the cold soup with a dollop of sour cream on top. Cucumbers have non-culinary uses as well. The seeds of cucumbers are a mild diuretic, while the flesh is considered to be a mild laxative. In the nineteenth century, the French grew white varieties for use in cosmetics. Today, its natural chemicals (glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids) are incorporated into skin cleansers, and other extracts are used in sunscreens and skin toners. Linda Wyner is an attorney in Walnut Creek by day, and an accomplished chef and “foodie” by choice. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com

Take control of your healthcare decisions with an

ADVANCE HEALTHCARE DIRECTIVE - $79

Divorce Living Trust Incorporation Probate

LOW

COST/FAST DOCUMENT PREPARATION SERVICE

Olivia Moore-Wraa

Owner, Clayton resident

No Lawyers, Save Money

WE THE PEOPLE

Legal Document Service Center of Concord

....LDA#49

We are not attorneys and cannot offer legal advice

4474 Treat Blvd., Concord (925) 246-0370 www.wethepeopleconcord.com

THE

SIGN OF A PROFESSIONA L

Let our team be your team

Bill and Pam Walcutt Office: (925) 686-3800

Bill’s direct: (925) 437-5535 Pam’s direct: (925) 437-5570 bill.walcutt@prurealty.com

Keep revenues local. Bill and Pam have a Clayton Business License.

This certificate entitles you to a

Soap box derby cars to join July 4 parade Gift The Great Labor Day Derby is just around the corner Ready for fireworks? You’ll be dazzled by the kaleidoscope of custom colors and decorated Derby cars as they make their way along Clayton’s Main Street, as part of the 4th of July parade. The cars will signal the coming of the Second Annual Clayton Community Great Labor Day Derby. Race day is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 3, over the Labor Day Weekend. “This is the opportunity to sign up your children as registration forms will be on hand,” says Committee Chairman Mike Fossan. Derby volunteers will be in front of the Clayton Community Church offices during the parade to answer questions, share in the excitement and perhaps volunteer to help entrants build their Derby car.s “At last year’s derby, we had 83 kids racing, 25 community-sponsored cars and several hundred spectators,” says Fossan. “This year we’ll have twice as many kids, more cars, bouncy rooms, an oldfashioned custom car show, snow cones, food, music and a projected 2000 spectators. The annual event is made possible by individual donors, title sponsors, IMC (Insurance Management Corporation) and Clayton Community Church, and a great group of associate sponsors. To become a Derby sponsor and help to provide a “community car” for all kids to enjoy, call Mike

Calamusa (925) 212-2950 or Mike Fossan (925) 672-1646. For the business community, sponsorship and participation means an opportunity to bring the community together, helping our local youth and showing support for local families. One hundred percent of sponsorships go toward completing the goal of having sufficient community cars

available so no kid has to sit out the races. Bring your family and friends downtown on July 4 for a peek at the cars and to sign up to race and play on Derby Day. The Clayton Community Great Labor Day Derby is produced by friends and families of Clayton Community Church for community kids— to promote teamwork, the spirit of friendly competition

and core family values. For more information about Clayton Community Church, visit www.claytoncc.com or call (925) 673-9060.

Recycle this paper

prurealty.com/billwalcutt

Certificate

Special Examination & Digital Motion X-Rays

for only $47.00!

Plus a DVD of your X-Ray to take home!

Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor Call 682-8400 to find out if we can help, today!

5161 Clayton Rd., Suite E, Concord CA 94521 (across from K-Mart). This offer expires July 15, 2005 Not valid for auto accident or work injury.

Consumer Awareness Hotline Helps Local Residents Buy Executive Homes for Zero Down Payment Clayton - A free, 24-hour Consumer Awareness Hotline is now available to help families and singles buy lovely homes in Clayton and other suburban communities for zero down payment.

Celebrating our 10th year of service

The service is free of charge. For more information call the CONSUMER AWARENESS HOTLINE 24 hours a day at 1-877-493-5437 ext. 402

www.zerodownclaytonhomeloans.com Sponsored by Integrity Home Loan Group CA DRE 001247055

DOES YOUR COMPANY HAVE A CREDIT UNION?

Ask us how you can join CD Federal Credit Union through your employer, association or group by calling (925)825-0900.

We are a full service financial institution waiting to serve you!

1855 Second St., Concord CA www.cdfcu.org

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

The Clayton Pioneer’s “Music Notes” columnist

Clayton’s own

Jim Hudak Pianist and Composer For bookings and performances:

Visit our Website www.jhudak.com E-mail jimmydak@pacbell.net

Call Or Write:

Brainstorm Records P.O. Box 488 Clayton, CA 94517 (925) 673-7293

CLARISSA

BRIDAL SALON For all your bridal needs

Mother of the Bride & After five evening wear

925.930.0214 1424 South Main St. Walnut Creek

Daily deliveries to Clayton, Pittsburg, Concord, Walnut Creek For those not content with the ordinary... Easy to order by phone

682-4664

Major credit cards honored

Toll Free

800-554-1391

4666 Clayton Road, Concord www.claytonflowersandplants.com

Why Episcopal? Reason #9: Male and female-God created them. Male and female-we ordain them

SAINT JOHN’S PARISH T HE E PISCOPAL C HURCH

Part 2

In part one of this two-part perspective we looked at the ongoing debate between science and a modern mutated form of creationism. I suggested the way we view the origin of our species (a battle still being waged, most recently for example, by the Kansas state school board) may inform the way we regard the future of thornier issues, such as stem cell research and human cloning. The modern equivalent of creationism – now in the guise

C LAYTON

of “intelligent design” – is often couched in the wonderful creation myth found in the Jewish scriptures (the Bible’s Old Testament) known as the Book of Genesis. In the story, God not only creates everything there is out of nothing, but does it in six days; beginning with divine wind-breath brooding over the watery chaos and culminating with the creation of humankind in his image. “It’s all good, very good,” the author likes to repeatedly quote God as saying. The author also likes to borrow heavily from other folk tales that were well known in

Church News CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH

Clayton Flowers

WIRE SERVICE SPECIALISTS

Creationism in Kansas: A Perspective REV. JOHN BENNISON Special to the Clayton Pioneer

Piano CD’s available on his Brainstorm Records label

Page A11

Hot Summer Nights are back. Join us every Friday in July for the return of our Hot Summer Movie Nights at Clayton Community Church parking lot at 6055 Main St., Clayton at Events begin at 7:30 p.m, movie starts at 9 p.m. July 1-Ice Cream Social and “The Incredibles;” July 8-BBQ and “National Treasure;” July 15-Sno-Cones and “Polar Express,” (in 3D); July 22Tentative Concert and “Finding Neverland;” July 29Rootbeer Floats and “Racing Stripes.” Bring your blankets and beach chairs. Donations accepted. Summer Challenge Seminars: Take a personal growth opportunity this summer. Discover who you are and how you can experience relationships at their very best. All seminars are held Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at our downtown office. June 18 How does your personality affect your finances? July 16 “The Forgiveness Factor.” Steve Diehl; Suggested donation $35 per person, includes workbook, continental breakfast and lunch. Summer Camps for Kids: June 27-30 (6 – 8 p.m.), Soccer Camp for grades K- 6, cost $50; July 11-15 (9 –noon) and July 10-14, (6-8:45 p.m.), Adventure Camp for ages 3 (diaper-free) – grade 5. Cost $30. July 25-29 (5:30–8 p.m.), Basketball camp for grades K3, cost $65; August 8-12 (8:30 a.m.- 1p.m.) - Basketball Camp for grades 4-8 at Clayton Valley High School. Cost $75. For more information or to sign up for any of these activities, call 673-9060.

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH CONCORD The church is holding vacation bible school with a “Safari Adventure” theme for children ages five to 12 years old. The camp runs from July 25 – 29 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cost is $15. Call 671-9942.

CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN Vacation Bible School is coming soon to Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church. The theme is “The Earth, the Sky, the Sea and Me.” Registration is open to those who will be in kindergarten through sixth grade in the fall. Cost is $20 for one child, plus $5 for each sibling. We will be exploring our wonderful world and our place in it, ending with a field trip on Friday to Mitchell Canyon, part of Mt. Diablo State Park. Call 672-4848 or Peggy Lyon, 689-3849 for information. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. CROSSROADS COVENANT CHURCH We have a free movie night every third Saturday of the month at 6 p.m. Movies are shown on the big screen with a cartoon before the feature. Everyone is welcome. Bring a blanket if you want to sit on the floor. Bring a snack to share. This month’s feature is “Muppet Treasure Island”. Crossroads Church Annual summer day camp will be July 18 – 22. Call Alma Rodriguez at 798-5905 for information or stop by our booth in the children’s area at the Clayton Fourth of July parade. ETERNAL LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH Summer Walks with Jesus Wednesday evening Bible Study will be held in Newhall Park in Concord from 7:15-8 p.m. beginning in June. A variety of topics and teachings will be studied. Eternal Life Lutheran Church is located at 5554 Clayton Rd., Suite 1B, in Concord. For more information call 524-0295, or email to EternalLife@wels.net.

Sunday Worship: 8 & 10 a.m. (July-Aug. 9 a.m.) 5555 C LAYTON R OAD Q C LAYTON

the ancient Mesopotamian world in order to spin a yarn. If that comes as a shock to any of us, we would do well to remember originality (let alone copyright infringement!) is a modern concern. Not only that, the story we read in Genesis is one that — in the end — isn’t remotely interested in empirical data or measurable phenomena; and, as such, is not constricted by the limits of even the notion of human intelligence, as if a divine Designer needed our best minds to concoct such a defense. Instead, it would seem folks have always sought ways to

HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH Annual vacation Bible school will be June 27 – July 1, from 8:45 a.m. to noon. Holy Cross volunteers and teenage youth will be leading Serengeti trek where kids are wild about God. This vacation Bible school is open to pre-k through grade six. It will be a fun, dynamic and educational experience. Games, snacks, singings, adventures and Bible study will be provided to all. Every participant will also receive a Serengeti tee shirt. You can pre-register by calling the Holy Cross office at 686-2000 or coming to late registration on Monday, June 27. The fee is $25 per person or $30 per family. ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH What’s for supper?” Saint John’s Episcopal Church’s community outreach efforts this summer will include preparing and serving a week’s worth of evening meals for homeless families at a Concord shelter the week of July 18-22. Sign-ups to help with this rewarding experience are now underway and members of the wider community are invited to participate. This is a real opportunity for a family activity that can be fun for kids, while children learn the importance of caring for neighbors in need. For more information how you can participate, just contact the church: info@saintjohnsparish.org, or call 6728855.

Send church news items that have a community interest to Clayton Pioneer, PO Box 1246, Clayton 94517 or e-mail religion@claytonpioneer.com.

SUMMER SPECIAL

Call anytime: 672-8855 or check us out online: www.saintjohnsparish.org

$2,400 SAVINGS No application fee

Senior Retirement Living

Call Today (925) 524-5100 6401 Center Street Clayton CA 94517

www.diamondterrace.net

(Limited Offer-Restrictions Apply)

Independent Active Seniors (age 62 & over) Affordable 1 & 2 bedroom apartments now available! Daily transportation Restaurant-style dining 24-hour staffing Housekeeping Cultural, recreational & exercise programs Small pets welcome

describe and believe in what is mysterious, miraculous and inexplicable, which can be as true as anything is true, without being factually verifiable. To that end, studying and learning to appreciate all the creation stories from all the great religions and mystical traditions could be as enlightening as scientific exploration and discovery itself. “In the beginning,” Genesis begins, there was the watery abyss of mystery and chaos. In a world now so conflicted, and in its own kind of chaos – as we find ourselves engulfed with the zealous fervor of competing religious ideologies — perhaps pushing Creationism in freshmen biology is not the most creative way to waste one’s breath. Thirty years after the Scopes Monkey Trial, Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee wrote their thinly veiled critique of that historical event in the play, “Inherit the Wind.” In the course of the trial, Brady, the prosecutor, begins with as much self-righteousness and self-confidence, armed with “the Revealed Word” of God as he lays claim to it. Assured not only of divine blessing, popular opinion is on his side, as well; including the spectators and even the judge. Drummond, the defense attorney, eventually finds no other way to challenge the law under which his own defendant stands accused than to question Brady under sworn oath. Drummond then proceeds to methodically deconstruct the contradictory and untenable literalism of that self-anointed prophet. As a historical footnote, the real William Jennings Bryan died five days after the Scopes trial. But in the play, his counterpart, Drummond, has a mental collapse in the courtroom and dies offstage as the fragile universe he has created for himself topples around him. The title to the play is taken from the Biblical book of Proverbs 11:29. “He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind.” It would appear all this huffing and puffing about placing God in the tidy constructs of our self-made world is for naught. Finally, in the creation story in Genesis, when God creates humankind presumably in his own image on the last day of creation, it is often touted as God’s finest hour and crowning achievement. But I wonder sometimes, at the end of those marvelous six days, if we weren’t instead just an afterthought; and sometimes a regrettable one, at that. As the Jewish psalmist sings, “What are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them?” (Psalm 8:4) Perhaps the infinite design of the universe is not only beyond the scope of endless scientific exploration (some of the greatest geniuses would enthusiastically concede this), but the provincial claims of some religious types to tame and explain the infinite nature of creation with such an unreliable criteria like “intelligence” altogether. Perhaps instead, this living, dynamic universe invites us into an infinitely expanding creation that is not stuck in some distant past, but its own divine evolution. In toto, we’re not in Kansas anymore. John Bennison is Rector of Saint John’s Episcopal Parish, Clayton. He welcomes your comments: www.saintjohnsparish.org.

Page A12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

There’s much to do to ready gardens for summer Preparing your garden for summer means preparing for the pesky things that can take over an otherwise healthy garden, including snails, slugs and weeds. But summer gardening is not all about killing pests. Mulch can provide an attractive base for all the wonderful summer beauties that can brighten up any outdoor space. In part two of my preparing for summer series, we will explore both the ugly and beautiful sides of summer gardening. Snail and slug damage can be as obvious as holes in your plants, slime tracks or simply a mucky base found in sea pink and lambs ear. Bait and kill these garden enemies. Sluggo is a product that is sold as domestic animal safe. Some responses

have been favorable, and other not. Mini pellets are our bait of choice at the nursery. We need a product strong and effective. These pellets are dark green and very, very hard. They will not swell up in water. This allows bait to be effective for several days, even after rain or watering. This product contains a mildicide to prevent mildew, and Bitrex, a chemical that makes the pellets bitter to the taste to discourage digestion. Follow all the directions when using any insecticide. The Pest Fighter Pellet is potent, and one pellet is good for every square foot. A little goes a long way. Also, put all your fertilizers and pesticides away in a safe place after use. All of this rain has resulted in nice batches of green, seedy

weeds. Let’s take them down and keep them down. Weed killer’s main ingredient is Glyphosate. The larger the percentage, the greater and faster the results. Most products have a waiting period of seven days before you can replant or reseed. Mix a Spray Grip at the time of application. This aids in the penetrating and adhering on the toughest weed surfaces. Trimec is the chemical name to look for when reading labels to kill broadleaf weeds in your grass. If you have a high weed area, consider a spring and fall application of Weed Stopper. This is a pre-emergent herbicide that contains surflan. This will prevent weed seeds from sprouting. Use this product again in September.

With the summer comes the heat, so be kind to your plants, and mulch around the bases to prevent water loss. Be it with medium red cedar, micro black, micro red or shredded cedar, both your yard and garden need to be covered. All mulches break down, but they provide organic matter to the soil. Some will blow away by nature or a gardener armed with a blower, and some will work its way back down your hill. Mulch allows your plants to have fewer weeds competing for water; and they will be cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Not to mention, some plants look great finished off with some mulch. Some perennial summer beauties to keep an eye out for

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

are Echinacea Orange MeadowBright, Agastache Golden Jublee, Gailardia Fanfare, Leonotis leonorus and Salvia leucantha Variegata. To have all of these in stock at once would make any flower lover happy. The Wave Petunias make

excellent summer annual color; this powerhouse only grows 4 inches tall and up to 4 feet wide. Cosmos is a graceful annual, old-fashioned and simple. Layia is another annual from yesterday, rediscovered for the fascinating color combinations. Introduce perennials and annuals during the hot months, and you will always have something in bloom. Get busy before summer arrives; you have a lot of work to do. Gardening is a yearround love. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at GardenGirl94517@aol.com

Mineral makeup is the natural choice for beauty Mineral makeup is making quite a stir in the great, big, colorful world of makeup.Up to now, it’s been the domain of professional makeup artists, but slowly and surely, mineral makeup is making its way into the mainstream. What is mineral makeup, you ask? Why are minerals better for your skin that anything you can find at the Macy’s or Sephora or Longs sales counter? Glad you asked. Mineral makeup is the best thing to happen to cosmetics since Cleopatra took up a piece of kohl and gave herself smoky eyes, starting a trend that will last, well… forever. Mineral makeup is skin-friendly, non-toxic, and is as natural as Mother Nature herself. While we gals love our makeup, most of us have never considered the actual ingredients in our Bonnie Bell lip gloss, our Maybelline mascara, our Cover Girl liquid foundation. But maybe we should. The truth of the matter is that most commercial makeup is full of unnecessary and sometimes harmful ingredients like fragrances, preservatives, and fillers. In particular, there is one brand of Very Popular Makeup that provides excellent coverage, but was made exclusively for photo and movie shoots, not all-day, every day usage. The longterm effect of wearing this particular brand day in and day out creates facial pores the size of salad plates. I exaggerate, but really my dear, it just makes sense. If the skin is covered by a substance that irritates it and interferes with

CYNTHIA GREGORY

LOOKIN’ GOOD its ability to breathe normally, it’s going to have a negative reaction. Then you have to put more makeup on to cover the new skin problem, which causes further trouble. . . .well, you get my point. Pardonez moi! Why go to all the trouble to avoid chemicals, dyes, and preservatives in the food we eat, if we’re going to slather them all over the delicate skin of our faces? So, what’s the alternative for those of us who are very, very particular about what we put in and on our bodies? The answer, mon amie, is all- natural mineral makeup. Mineral makeup is made without the inexpensive aid of talc, oil, wax, petrochemicals, synthetic humectants, gums, dye, preservative, chemicals, oils, fragrances, fillers, synthetic ingredients, or artificial colors. While cheap to produce, these unwholesome ingredients are irritants and tend to block pores, leading to breakouts. Oils and fillers also tend to degrade over time, which in turn can lead to bacterial growth. Ick! Since mineral makeup uses only inert ingredients, they do not spoil, and do not need preservatives.

This is part of the reason why they are often referred to as “clean” or “pure” makeup. Mineral makeup is made from nature’s own ingredients, such as titanium dioxide, mica powder and iron oxides. Our sisters in makeup history have used these elements in cosmetics for thousands of years, and to great benefit. Titanium dioxide is naturally anti-inflammatory and a natural sunscreen. Some makeup formulations contain titanium and zinc, making them gentle on the skin in addition to creating a perfect sunscreen combination for total coverage. Zinc oxide is also considered an anti-microbial element. This means that it kills bacteria, mold and mildew. Anti-microbials also typically kill clinically relevant bacteria and fungi, reduce healing time and reduce scarring, which is why mineral makeup

skin, and I know you do, you’ll want to choose a product that will help keep it healthy. Cynthia Gregory holds a master's degree in fine arts and is a California licensed esthetician at Permanent Solution, in downtown Clayton. She can be reached for comment at ceegregory@aol.com.

to make that important decision for yourself or your loved ones.

Tender, l oving c are f or s eniors i n t wo b eautiful l ocations

Petar Guest Home

Diablo Senior Homes

(925) 672-2 2841

(925) 855-0 0959

Lic 071441200

Lic 075600230

in C layton

Licensed for dementia and Alzheimer’s Three meals a day Care and services 24/7 Private and semi-private rooms Quiet, residential neighborhood Hospice Licensed

ne fun an s, we make wi wines At Wine Thieve jority of our In fact, the ma it. y jo en n! n everyone ca als of your ow teal" some de "s me Co ! 10 $ are UNDER 8 p..m. t from 6-8 ht

y nig ry Friday ver ome Join us e Co

ing for wine tast your friends. don’t tell

But shhh . . .

ral’ fool you. Mineral makeup is a world of juicy, wild, creative colors. It can be subtle, or it can sing with color enough for Cleopatra and her diva girlfriends. There are plenty of choices when it comes to makeup, but if you care about your

Don’t wait

S E R IO U S L Y W E T A K E W IN E HAVE TO S O Y O U D O N 'T so d affordable

Monday thru Saturday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

672-4003

5443 Clayton Road next to Blockbuster

Advertise in the Clayton Pioneer 672-0500

is gentle enough to be recommended for acne or rosacea prone skin, inflammatory skin conditions, and even post-surgical or post- chemical peel skin, as the natural minerals can help reduce irritation and redness. Don’t let the word ‘natu-

in Danville

In our 10 years of providing AFFORDABLE care, our facilities have NEVER had a deficiency or a complaint filed with the licensing agency. Trust your senior care to us. Ray Keyhantaj

(Cell) 925-360-2936

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A13

Remote assistance – there’s no place like home

Adora Lazaro, and her "All Loving Care" services, have enabled us to take a "timeout" and find some time for ourselves. She and her providers have given specialized and caring attention to our disabled son. Adora does indeed, provide "loving care." - Bud and Kim Modersbach Alamo, C A

A R EFERRAL AGENCY z House cleaners z Party/kitchen helpers

embra c

call for a free assessment 925.672.0752 fax: 925.672.2694 mobile: 9 25.457.0954 web: alllovingcare.com P.O. Box 688, Clayton, CA

our peace ind of m

We can help with personal care, respite care, light housekeeping, transportation, meal preparation & catering personnel.

y ng

z Caregivers/CNA’s z Catering servers

WILL CLANEY TECH TALK

We all need some computer help now and again since computers don’t always work the way they should. It’s likely you’ve already experienced the local repair shop, tech support visit, or the tech support call center routine where your call is routed to some far away place. Did you know that there is a new and better way to get computer help? It’s called remote assistance. Each service has its benefits and, of course, its drawbacks.

La z a r o , p r e s

ide

THINK OF ME AS A PERSONAL TRAINER FOR YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN A lot of people think reaching your financial goals is simply a matter of hard work. While it does take personal commitment, it also helps to have someone working with you every step of the way. I work with you to design a financial plan with the goal of making your money work harder for you, rather than the other way around. From retirement planning to smarter investing to reducing income taxes, I can help you explore your options and help you decide what’s best for you. Call me for a complimentary initial financial consultation and see why more than two million people come to American Express Financial Advisors for their financial fitness.

Mureleen Benton, CFP Financial Advisor CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER

American Express Financial Advisors Inc. IDS Life Insurance Company 5356 Clayton Road., Suite 211 Concord, CA 94521 Bus: 925.685.4523 Fax: 925.685.3520 Lic: CA 0692378

Repair shop visits require a bit of wiring wizardry and some lugging on your part and may not be necessary at all. Setting an appointment with a large national chain can result in some anonymous guy showing up. Impersonal at best, since you never meet the same guy twice. You could call an isolated phone center for tech support, but heavily accented English can complicate something you already don’t understand. Or, you might consider a new remote access service where local professionals work on your computer on line through the Internet. If the problem can’t be resolved quickly, your information is then available locally for a personal tech to review. There are many ways to administer technical support from a remote location. The choices include telephone tech support to a corporate call center, technical assistance via Microsoft’s Remote Desktop or Remote Assistance, usually administered by a corporate IT department, and network streaming. The connection from you to the remote representative requires various degrees of effort or pre-planning.

Essentially remote assistance fixes a software problem by remotely connecting a tech to your computer. One of the most prevalent (and least admired) routines of technical help befalls us as the “do-it-yourself over-the-phone you’re-the-tech” variety. In this scenario, the call center depends on you manipulating your computer while a Level One support center flunky makes you feel like a complete idiot by asking, “Is it plugged in?” Level One techs usually use scripted questions and aren’t really techs. They frequently don’t have the expertise to fix problems if they aren’t in the script. When your problem isn’t fixed in a few hours, they’ll refer you to a Level Two tech where you start over again. During your do-it-yourself session you may have little or no idea what the tech is asking you to do on your computer. Outsourcing the work to foreign countries is difficult for the user because language misunderstandings occur with regularity. (Then, there is that pesky three second satellite delay when you say, “What?” and he says, “Ok, ok that’s good.”) Microsoft and others have improved remote methods

whereby a real tech can take over and command your computer as if they were sitting at your keyboard. I have found this method of tech support very useful under the proper circumstances. However, the preparation work needed to make these Microsoft Remote Desktop (RDT) connections work can be disheartening to the average user. In order to make RDT work a great deal of setup work needs to be done. Microsoft also has a Remote Assistance method whereby the user invites the tech into the system (sometimes) bypassing the firewall. This involves using email to the tech as an invitation to join the user’s computer. However, this method is still difficult to use because it takes skills to setup the e-mail and two to tango. The remote user and the tech need to participate in computer reboots. Some security and firewall settings could still block the interaction and not allow the session. I use an alternate method called network streaming. This method takes advantage of the benefits of Remote Assistance but is simple to use. It creates conditions on the client machine, which allow full con-

trol remotely. Network streaming remote assistance requires little or no preparation work. The user contacts a Web site then clicks three times and while repeating the words, “There’s no place like home, there’s no...” (Oh, sorry.) Professional techs interact directly with the computer and a port listening device keeps you connected even after a reboot. The network streaming method is easily initiated by the client and it requires little, if any user intervention. One simply points the Web browser to an Internet address, downloads a very small self-installing, selfinitiating program and in a moment the tech is fixing the problem. There are many methods available to fix computer problem remotely but network streaming is hands down the best environment for any Windows based PC. If you would like to know more visit our local Web site at www.shopcusa.com and click Remote Assistance and read more about it before you try. Will Claney is the owner and operator of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-672-9989.

All Loving Care takes clients to heart JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

All Loving Care is celebrating its one-year anniversary as a referral agency helping people help themselves. Owner Adora Lazaro runs her business with her client’s best interest at heart. “ I love being able to help people that are looking for specialized care and assistance,” Adora says. All Loving Care strives to provide the best possible and personalized care to enhance the dignity of assisted living for recovering adults and the elderly. Adora explains that all care providers are prescreened and background checks are performed for all personal and professional work history, including assessments of talents and skills. Adora’s compassionate approach and outgoing personality are the guiding forces behind her business. “You need to let clients feel your energy,” she says. She has designed her referral business

to encompass a variety of needs such as personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, transportation, and medication reminders and respite care. Free in-home assessments are available. In the past year, Adora has also listened to her clients requests and has added other services such as housecleaner, yard maintenance, painter, event helper, banquet server, D.J., office and personal helper. “There are a lot of odd jobs that need to be done, but people don’t know who to call,” Adora says. So she has expanded her business to meet those needs. Adora has always enjoyed people. Due to health reasons, she left her position of restaurateur after six years as proprietor of Aroma Café & Grill, a Filipino-American Restaurant and Karaoke Bar in Concord. She continues to make use of her people skills as an entrepreneur with All Loving Care. She often surprises some of her clients with her deli-

Jill Bedecarré/Clayton Pioneer

ADORA LAZARO listens to her clients and provides loving care to help them meet their needs while staying in their own homes.

cious Filipino specialty, lumpia. As one client says,

“Adora does indeed provide ‘loving care.’

ATTENTION! Affluent Family “Tax Scholarships” Available. Parents of college-bbound students... Is your child headed for college in September? How will you pay or can you negotiate? Should you use tax-free or after tax dollars? Pay with hard-earned cash or loans? Can you get tuition discounts? For answers and free consultation call

College Funding Advisors 925-9933-88100

Page A14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from Dad? Diablo View Middle School eighth graders have some surprising and not so surprising answers.

own. I remember the time you taught me to ride my bike. I knew that you would never give up with me. I love you so much for that. Chelsea Bellen

The most important thing that I have learned from my father is how to give and care for others. My father has always been very giving. He gives his time and love to help others before himself. He cares and looks out for people. His influence of caring and giving has helped me become a better person. I love you, Dad. Allison Anton I love my dad because he listens to me whenever I need someone to talk to. He is very patient and I enjoy hanging out with him. He also spends time with me by taking me shopping even though he is very busy. By doing this, he has taught me that it important to spend time with your children. Ali Asghar The most important thing I’ve learned from my father is that you must respect everyone that you will meet in life. If you respect people that you don’t know, they will respect you back, which might lead to good things. I always think of that when I’m around people and it works all the time. Pierce Bartley My dad taught me to be polite to other people. He goes to a lot of fancy meetings and sometimes I have to go so I have to be very polite to his business associates. As long as I am good he will normally get me something. My dad’s cool. Kurt Beranis Dear Dad: You have taught me so much. I have l e a r n e d things from you that I could never learn on my

My father is a very important person in my life. He has taught me many things. Probably the most important things he’s taught me are how to manage money and how to stay safe. He has always been there for me and helped me with my homework. Yay, Dad! Katelan Bowden The most important thing I learned from my dad is to always tell the truth. He has taught me a lot. He is a great role model and I appreciate him for everything he has done for me. Kelsi Childs The most important thing I have ever learned from my father is never to let the little things bug you and to always try your best. And, also, don’t sweat the small stuff. I have a great dad and maybe if sometimes I don’t show it, I love him very much. He was always there for me and helped me when I needed him most. I love you, Dad. Cassie Cox The most important thing that I have learned from my father is to be motivated in everything I do. Even if it is something small like cleaning my room or washing a car, I need to do everything to the best of my ability. You rock, Dad! Andrew Davis My dad has taught me patience. He’s taught me how to play tennis and how to paint. The best thing I’ve learned from my dad is how to throw a fishing line into the water so I can catch a fish. Michael DeLeon

My dad has taught me that the key in life is effort. It doesn’t matter if you aren’t a genius, but with effort, you can excel in anything. Ian Fuller My dad is very important to me. My dad has taught me many things, but the most important thing that my dad has taught me is to always try my best. My dad has always told me since I started playing sports that the most important thing is to always try your best. Ross Hillery My father has taught me many things that are important. The most important thing I’ve learned from him is to never give up. It is my lifelong motto. It doesn’t matter where I am, the motto still applies. Thank you for being there and never letting me give up, Dad. Danielle Homand The most important thing I’ve learned from my father is that he always taught me to do the right thing. If I hadn’t known what was right to do and what was wrong to do, I probably would be bad mannered. It’s important to be taught right and not become a spoiled person. Carley Hood

he has showed me how to prevent certain things from happening. I believe that the most significant thing he has taught me is how to deal with impertinent people. Krissa Machusic I love my Uncle Danny because he is one of the funniest men I know. I enjoy hanging out with him because he’s cool and I can talk to him. He also made me think about not smoking because it’s bad for my health. These are some of the important things that my uncle has taught me. Alejandra Magdaleno My dad is the absolute best father in the world. He and I are extremely close. We have a relationship that no other father and daughter has. He has always taught me to be honest and thankful for what I have. I think one of the best things that he has taught me though, is how to love. And the man I love the most is my dad. Victoria Maurino The most important thing I’ve learned from my father is how to care; to do the right thing, to be the person I am today. He has always been there for me and I know he always will. He has helped me

My dad is a hero, a role model and my teacher. He instills in me perseverance and commitment…when you start something, finish it. Both my parents shower me with a sense of self worth and confidence, but I look up to my dad for approval, love and comfort in knowing I’ll always be Daddy’s Little Girl. Caitlin Looney My father has taught me countless strategies throughout my life. He has taught me integrity and

Over the thirteen years of my life I’ve learned so much from my daddy. He a l w a y s believed in me when I felt my goals were too far from my reach. No matter how stressed, confused or down I felt, my daddy convinced me that I could accomplish anything as long as I had confidence in myself. Ashley Poston

a beautiful backyard experience with our unique and

My dad has taught me to be a good person since the day I was b o r n . T hroughout the years, he always is there for me when I have questions and I love that. I am a better person because of him and I think that I become more like him every day. Chrissy VanVaerenbergh

My dad taught me that it’s important to work hard and try your best because that’s how you become successful. He always told me that it’s important to have the right kind of attitude in life. And, it’s not about material things. Material things will not make you happy. Tayler Stafford

Happy Fathers Day from all of us at the Clayton Pioneer

SALE PEND ING

Desirable Antioch Neighborhood!

Kimberly Morucci (925) 280-8 8563 kmorucci@interorealestate.com www.kimmorucci.com

HUGE LOT!! One of THE largest lots in the Neighborhood, Park Like Setting with Gorgeous Pool, Lush Lawn Areas, TerraCotta Patio, Sand Play Area, and Play Structure, As well as Barbeque/Entertaining Area, Water Fountain and Pond, Side Yard and Storage Shed. Surrounded by Mature Landscaping, Private and Serene. 4 Bedroom 2 1/2 Bath, Original Owners Lovingly Maintained and Stylishly Updated and Expanded. Huge Great Room, Kitchen Remodel and Addition, done with Permits!!! Laminate Wood Flooring and Designer Carpet on 1st Floor. Kitchen Features Granite Counters and Huge Eating Area, with Breakfast Bar. This House has much more to Offer. Don't miss this, it is truly amazing!!! PLUS No Mello Roos! Offered at $574,000.

Walnut Creek office, 1280 Civic Dr., Suite 200, 8500 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 z (925) 280-8

stylish

collections of patio furniture by Brown Jordan, O W Lee and Homecrest. Chateau

The most important thing I’ve learned from my father is how to set goals for myself. He’s not only taught me about how you can benefit by doing your best, he demonstrates it. I see the success he has with his job and I know that it wasn’t easy for him to get to where he is today. I appreciate everything he does for me. Michelle Trosclair

I have learned a c o p i o u s amount of things from my father. He has taught me to be a better person with each lesson. He taught me how to tie my shoes and how to drive. He has always taught me to be the best person I can be. My dad does everything he can to make life better for us. I love my dad more than words can explain. Amina Semmoud

Is your backyard ready for company?

Create

The most important thing my dad has taught me is how to throw a football the right way. I used to embarrass myself in P.E. throwing worse than a first grader, but my dad taught me how to throw a spiral. I still embarrass myself in P.E. but now it’s not because I can’t throw a football. Mike Stelzner

become a better person. Stephanie Pho

R&M

the place for fine gifts, decorator items, patio and garden furniture and quality nursery items.

distinctive plants and outdoor décor help to create the ambiance that you are Fountains, pots,

looking for. Olympus

Our goal is to help you experience outdoor

living

at its finest.

Pool, Patio & Gardens Family owned since 1983

6780 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton

Moroccan

· 672-0207

Closed Mondays

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page A15

Around Town Neary gets a friendly send off after 7 years at CVHS

Oakhurst was the place to be after Clayton Classic

ANISE MAAMARI

After spending a windy day on the golf course, these CBCA golfers were ready for a cold brew and a hot dinner. And that’s just what was waiting for them at the nineteenth hole after the CBCA’s Clayton Classic Golf Tournament at Oakhurst Country Club on June 6. The tournament is a major fundraiser for the community organization. For photo of the winning team, see Sports, page B2.

SKIP IPSEN AND AL MARTIN

PARTY ORGANIZERS Lynda Hayes, Cheryl Long, Cher Morehouse; Pat and John Neary, Pat Middendorf and husband Jim.

SALLY TURNER AND JULIE PIERCE

KEVIN AND DON FITZGERALD

SANDY WILLIAMSON

It was a beautiful setting at Pat and Jim Middendorf ’s home in Oakhurst, a fitting tribute to Clayton Valley High School principal John Neary who is retiring after seven years leaving behind a career in education that spans more than 30 years. Clayton Valley faculty, staff and parents came by to congratulate John on a job well done, including Congressman George Miller. Clayton Valley’s jazz band played and the CVHS Women’s Ensemble sang. “Now I get to have him all to myself,”

said Neary’s wife, Pat. She and John plan to head off to Hawaii for a little R&R after graduation.

CONGRESSMAN MILLER

AND

NEARY

Brownies meet their secret Diamond Terrace pen pals For the past three months, Brownie Troop 2386 has been earning their “Caring and Sharing” badge. To be more involved with the community, they decided to correspond with ten residents from Diamond Terrace who became their “secret pen pals” during that time. Every two weeks, the Brownies and their pen pals

BROWNIE TROOP 2386 and their secret pen pals.

exchanged letters. The Brownies drew pictures of themselves and wrote letters. The Diamond Terrace residents also wrote about themselves and their lives. They all finally met face to face on June 1 when the Brownies delivered decorated cookies and sang “Make New Friends” for their secret pals.

CVHS

JAZZ BAND

started the party off right with a selection of cool tunes.

“Look Who’s Selling Clayton!” HELP-U-SELL REAL ESTATE SERVICES 4918 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94521 (925) 680-4950 Just Listed!

5185 Keller Ridge Drive

Clayton

We sold our home on 522 Mt. Davidson Court in Clayton and saved over $32,100 in real estate fees! We are very happy with Help-U-Sell and would use them again! Our agent was very professional and thorough in handling the sale of our home! A. Medrano

We sold our home on 1816 Yolanda Circle in Clayton in 4 days using Help-U-Sell & saved over $27,600 in real estate commissions. This was by far the best real estate experience we have ever had! We are so happy with the results that we recommended Help-U-Sell to all our neighbors. J. Mann

Sell Fast! Save Money

d $15,100! aved Sold! Selllerr S

ng! Pendin

$975,000

26 Mt. Wilson Way

Clayton

$549,950

3101 Coyote Circle

Clayton

$530,000

650! d $39,6 aved Sold Selllerr S

1830 Yolanda Circle

Clayton

$784,950

3 Bedrooms plus loft, can easily be converted to 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx 2894 sq.ft. Large lot that backs to open space, private landscaped backyard with covered patio & dual glazed windows. Elegant formal living and dining room with custom fireplace, spacious family room with gorgeous rock fireplace & gourmet kitchen w/island and breakfast bar.

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1378 sq.ft. Separate 2 story unit with updated kitchen & baths! New water heater, dual pane windows throughout, freshly painted & new carpet in most rooms. Large finished garage w/workbench, storage & sports bar, large deck for entertaining & private, quiet, park like setting! Close to shopping & downtown.

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1595 sq.ft. Beautiful and unique with designer touches throughout! Large eat-in kitchen with maple cabinets, custom built in china cabinet, spacious family room with 2 sided fireplace, formal living & dining room & master suite w/private bathroom.

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, approx 2,133 sq.ft. of living space. Spectacular home ready for any family! Entertainers delight backyard with gorgeous pool! Fully landscaped front and backyard with flagstone. Updated kitchen and baths, spacious living room, family room & dining room. An absolute must see to believe!

d $38,150 aved Sold! Selllerr S

450 d $32,4 aved Sold! Selllerr S

d $27,950 aved Sold! Selllerr S

770 d $27,7 aved Sold! Selllerr S

30 Fleming Ct.

Clayton

$785,000

25 Atchinson Stage Rd.

Clayton

$699,000

5830 Del Trigo Lane

Clayton

$565,000

5418 Paso Del Rio Ct.

Concord

$612,000

4 bedrooms, plus den, 2.5 baths, approx 2368 sq.ft. hardwood flrs, marble entry, gorgeous kitchen w/granite tile counters & gas stove & large master suite w/walkin closet & marble bathroom. Spectacular tropical backyard with pool/spa & waterfall, extended BBQ island w/slate counter, sink, eating area and tile patio. This home is an absolute must see to believe! An entertainers Dream!

Awake to Views of Mt. Diablo! 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Approx 2,549 sq. ft., Custom additions w/permits, new roof, pergo flrs, spacious family room w/brick fireplace & formal living & dining room w/bay windows, 3 sets of French doors, private landscaped backyard w/deck & RV parking too! Light & bright throughout!

3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,659 sq.ft. Large .26 acre lot! Original hardwood flrs throughout, formal living rm w/fireplace, light & bright family rm & eat-in kitchen w/double oven. Central heat, vaulted ceilings, shutters/blinds throughout & large backyard with sparkling pool

4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 2135 sq.ft. Spacious formal living & dining room, large family room w/brick fireplace, wilsonart hardwood flrs, ceiling fan, wet bar & Anderson slider! Updated eat-in kitchen w/tile counters, oak cabinets, built in microwave/convection oven, dishwasher, garden window & built in desk. Tile entry, central heat/air, gorgeous landscaped backyard w/redwood deck.

d $32,150! aved Sold! Selllerr S

ys!! Sold in 4 Da6,110 3 $ d ed Selllerr Sav

650! d $27,6 aved Sold! Selllerr S

600! d $45,6 aved Sold! Selllerr S

522 Mt. Davidson Court

Clayton

$685,000

4 Large bedrooms, 2 updated baths, approx 2325 sq.ft. Spacious formal living & dining room w/vaulted ceilings, family room w/wet bar, hardwood floor entry, updated eat-in kitchen w/tile counters & central heat/air. Spacious master suite, tile roof, new exterior paint & meticulously maintained yards!

182 Mt. Wilson Way

Clayton

$751,000

5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, approx 2,692 sq.ft. Lovely kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, gas stove, tile counters and garden window! Gas fireplace in family room, oak hardwoood flr in entry, kitchen & eating area, wet bar & large laundry room with storage. Master Bedroom features views & private deck, lovely backyard with spa & gorgeous views!

1816 Yolanda Circle

Clayton

$610,000

3 Large Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,780 sq.ft. Gorgeous home inside & out! Spacious family room w/woodburning fireplace, dining room w/wood floors, new heat/air & new roof. Master Bedroom with French doors to private Trex patio deck, fruit trees & generous side & backyard with RV parking. Great Clayton Neighborhood!

102 Forest Hill Drive

Clayton

5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, Gorgeous kitchen with granite counters, maple cabinets & island. Formal living w. fireplace & dining room, spacious family room w/fireplace. Open & bright throughout, inside laundry, 3 car garage, landscaped yards & Large master suite w/jacuzzi tub!

You Could Save $27,050! By selling your home with Help-U-Sell instead of with brokers who charge a 6% commission* (the savings are based on a home selling for $600,000).You can select from many fine real estate professionals.Why not choose one that will also save you money when you sell? *Commissions are negotiable and not set by law.

helpusell.com

You’re Paying How Much To Sell Your Home?

LOW FEES HAPPY CUSTOMERS!

visit us online at

Visit our new office at 4918 Clayton Road

Page A16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

georgevujnovich.com

Trust your home to

Mortgage Market Update

GEORGE VUJNOVICH Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979

Conforming $359,650 or less (no points)

Jumbo $359,651 and up (no points)

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . .5.0% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . .5.125% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . .5.275% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . .5.375% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.125% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.625%

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . .5.0% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . .5.125% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . .5.5% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.25% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.75%

6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517

Tel: (925) 672-44433

Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS

PRICE

SALE DATE

7006 Molluk Way 1 El Portal Drive 1500 Haviland Court 988 Oak Street 355 Mt. Washington Way 238 Mountaire Circle 105 La Encinal Court 1142 Peacock Creek Dr. 8034 Kelok Way 122 Regency Drive 8735 Marsh Creek Road

$873,000 $775,000 $550,000 $788,500 $770,000 $925,000 $830,000 $1,350,000 $969,000 $786,000 $990,000

6/2/05 6/1/05 6/1/05 6/1/05 5/31/05 5/31/05 5/31/05 5/27/05 5/27/05 5/27/05 5/26/05

2,743 2,424 1,256 2,131 1,919 2,489 2,390 4,100 2,843 2,010 2,300

BED/BATH

5/3 4/2 2/2 4/3 4/2 5/2 4/2 5/3 4/3 4/2 3/1

ADDRESS

PRICE

SALE DATE

617 Myrick W Court 5206 Keller Ridge Drive 50 La Honda Court 1498 N Mitchell Cyn. Rd. 417 Chupcan Place 1016 Pebble Beach Drive 10 Goethals Court 165 Silverado Court 102 La Encinal Court 7 Nottingham Place 1264 Shell Circle

$725,000 $899,000 $900,000 $735,000 $685,000 $1,125,000 $845,000 $1,400,000 $819,000 $849,000 $590,000

5/26/05 5/26/05 5/25/05 5/20/05 5/20/05 5/20/05 5/20/05 5/19/05 5/19/05 5/18/05 5/18/05

1,813 2,237 2,390 1,948 1,749 3,030 1,854 3,599 2,401 2,210 1,355

BED/BATH

3/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 3/2 4/3 4/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 3/2

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

ADDRESS

PRICE

SALE DATE

204 Mountaire Circle 1331 Shell Lane 402 Wright Court 8 El Portal Court 422 Meadow View Lane 1782 Indian Wells Way 208 Fleming Drive 30 Marquette Court 115 La Encinal Court 8040 Kelok Way 1296 Shell Circle

$800,000 $575,000 $819,000 $652,000 $1,675,000 $625,000 $792,250 $675,000 $935,000 $985,000 $559,000

5/12/05 5/12/05 5/12/05 5/11/05 05/06/05 05/05/05 05/04/05 05/04/05 04/29/05 04/29/05 04/29/05

2,619 1,355 2,033 1,648 5,450 1,235 1,976 1,456 2,428 2,843 1,367

BED/BATH

4/3 3/2 4/2 3/2 7/5 2/2 4/2 3/2 4/2.5 4/3 2/2

All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed

GEORGE VUJNOVICH,

Broker

(925) 672-4433

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517 georgevujnovich.com

EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

JUST LISTED! Dramatic former model ("Whitney") on a prime golf course view lot! 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3,606sf, 3 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Elaborate custom window coverings & light fixtures. Upgraded marble tile floors throughout main level. Downstairs bedroom or office with bath. Gourmet Corian kitchen. Family room with custom marble fireplace. Lavish master suite. Private lot with deck & extensive waterfall/pond feature & endless views of hills, golf course, valley & city. $1,275,000

JUST LISTED! Absolutely fabulous "Lassen" model! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,981sf, 2 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Completely redesigned & upgraded Chef's kitchen featuring Caesar Stone counters & center island, new cabinetry & professional grade stainless steel appliances! Upgrades & exquisite attention to detail throughout are too numerous to list a MUST see! Luxurious master suite boasts spectacular views of city to Delta! Private lot features a flagstone patio, pergola & vibrant professional landscape. $1,135,000

JUST LISTED! Lovely former model ("Shasta") on a prime golf course view lot! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,373sf, 3 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Neutral décor throughout! Downstairs bedroom with full private bath. Gourmet kitchen. Family room with brick fireplace & custom cabinetry. Spacious master with jet tub. Private lot offers a relaxing spa & magnificent views of golf course, hills, valley & city. $1,195,000

Fantastic "Nantucket " model backing to open space! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,599sf, rare 4 car garage & inside laundry. Gourmet kitchen features upgraded tile floors, counters, island, upgraded cabinets & pantry. Extended family room features a fireplace & recess for TV. Neutral carpet & décor throughout! Spacious master suite overlooks views of open space. Private lot backs to open space & features a sparkling inground pool with built-in elevated spa. $1,250,000

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

IRONWOOD/WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

G DIN N E P

Spectacular "Belvedere" model! backs to open space. 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,911sf, inside laundry & rare 4 car garage with extensive custom built-in storage. Upgraded gleaming hardwood floors in entry, hall, living & dining rooms & kitchen. Downstairs bedroom or home office w/ private bath. Gourmet kitchen features granite counters, center island & pantry. Enormous great room with granite tile fireplace, full bar & custom built-in entertainment center. Master suite with jetted tub overlooks open space. Huge private level lot features a mini orchard, lush lawn, a spectacular array of flowers, paver patio & huge paved side yard! $1,299,000

Stunning "Nantucket" model in a quiet court setting! 4 bedrooms, den, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,820sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry. Neutral carpet, designer paint, plantation shutters & wood blinds throughout! Gourmet kitchen features tile counters, island & recipe desk with accent tile back splash, upgraded diagonal laid tile floors, upgraded "mocha" cabinets & pantry. Expanded family room offers a wood burning fireplace & TV recess. Spacious master suite with retreat/nursery/workout room. Large lot features colorful flowers, ornamentals, large lawn area & a trellis covered salt washed patio. $1,285,000

Immaculate "Nantucket" model facing open space! with views of hills, ridge & canyons. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,599sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry. Neutral carpet, décor & wood blinds throughout! Entry features upgraded double beveled glass front doors & upgraded tile floors. Gourmet kitchen features upgraded tile floors, counters, island, maple cabinets & pantry with frosted door. Expanded family room features fireplace with ceramic log insert & recess for TV. Spacious master suite. Rear yard offers a trellis covered random stone patio large lawn & play area. $1,195,000

Sought after single story " Augusta" model! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1,816sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Neutral décor through-out! Upgraded tile entry extends into the hall, family room & kitchen. Gourmet kitchen features tile counters, center island, eating nook & spacious pantry. Living & dining room with neutral carpet & semi-vault ceiling. Family room with tile fireplace & recess for TV. Spacious master. Level lot backs to open space w/redwood deck, nice lawn area & huge paved side yard with double gate. $679,000

CLAYTON PIONEER June 17, 2005

Section B

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 1

:DQWHG

E M S A G J A E N H G T Katie J ames Jessie J ames

Cathie P rovinse Brooks B urtch Michael J ames

)

5HZDUG

PRICELESS

or most of us, when the word "home" is mentioned, it evokes a flood of fond memories. No doubt about it, we all want and need a place where we can build our lives, families, security, and refuge. Indeed, within the home is where the strength of an individual and family is largely formed.

It is this idea that significantly propels us in the field of Real Estate. Contributing to people's most requisite needs enhances this occupation. It is a pleasure to be involved in something that addresses such essential and crucial requirements of families, and to arrive at results and solutions which enrich lives. This is our underlying motive as we transact real estate business.

A home is so much more than property and buildings, it is your very life and future.

)RUHVW +LOO

(O 3RUWDO

&U\VWDO 5DQFK

6WRQHZRRG

CLAYTON Peacock Creek 4 bedroom, 3 bath plus office, 3200 square feet, great rear yard, 4car garage, granite, hardwood, a must see!

CLAYTON Regency Meadows 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2400 square feet, 3 car garage, custom hardwood, spa, running stream, don't miss this!

CONCORD 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 3500 square feet beauty. 3 car garage, backs to open space, great family home!

BRENTWOOD 4 bedroom 3 bath, 2500 square feet, 3 car garage. Gorgeous rear yard, across from park. Location, location, location!

A lot of realtors are of the mind set that it’s all about them, who’s the area’s number #1 realtor, who’s out sold who. But at the James Gang our philosophy is that it’s ALL ABOUT YOU and we know that is important to you when you are thinking of buying or selling

SECURITY PACIFIC REAL ESTATE SERVICES 1555 Riviera Ave. Suite E, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

(925) 974-7698

Page B2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

Clayton Sports 144 play in CBCA’s Clayton Classic Pioneers shine in the desert Pete Laurence, Ted Sudderth and Wayne Coppock came in with the low gross score at the Clayton Business and Community Association’s annual Clayton Classic Golf Tournament at Oakhurst Country Club. The foursome racked up two pars, 14 birdies and two eagles for a low gross score of 54. Also in the foursome but not pictured was Craig Thomason. The June 6 event was the 19th annual tournament for this community association. The tournament is CBCA’s third major fundraiser of the year, after the Art and Wine Festival and the Oktoberfest. The tournament attracted a full complement of 144 players and raised about $11,000. The CBCA is a non-profit organization that sponsors and supports a wide variety of activities for the benefit of the Clayton community.

TIM BRUNO Special to the Pioneer

The Clayton Valley Pioneers 14u swept the Palm Springs USSSA Super NIT Memorial Day tournament with a 6-0 record against a strong field of teams from Southern California and Arizona, including a 7-0 rout in the final game against the So Cal Sharks. Strong hitting and outstanding pitching was too much for any of the southland competitors. Led by Vince Bruno, (11-19, .579, HR, 3- Triples, 4 doubles 7 rbi) and Mitchell Wilhite (10-19, .526, 3 triples, 9 rbi) the Pioneers finished with a team batting average of .357, outscoring opponents 51-17. Darrel Matthews hit .474, Andrew

PETE LAURENCE, TED SUDDERTH

Gartner .471 and Michael Leal .375. for the Clayton Valley club. Pioneers pitching anchored by Pat Keane, (8 2/3 innings 1 win, 2 saves 0.00 era) Julian Thornton, (8 innings 2 wins, 0.00 era) and Johnny Doig, (1 win 0.00 era) was stellar though out, posting a team earned run average of just 1.42 and held the opposition to a meager .186 batting average. Additional wins and outstanding performances and wins by Tim Mason and Gartner rounded out the dominating pitching performances. With this tournament win the Pioneers qualified for the USSA World Series at Oklahoma in July. The Pioneers next tournament will be at Lake Tahoe over Fathers Day weekend June 18th and 19th.

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

AND

WAYNE COPPOCK took low gross in CBCA’s tourney.

Free weights vs. machines CHAD DAMMEN

SHAPE UP

In order to understand why it is more beneficial for most people to use free weights as opposed to machines, we must consider how the human body reacts to different kinds of stress. The body reacts to most stresses with predictable responses. Because of this, the desired goal will help to determine what cores of action is appropriate. Generally, using free weights will make you stronger and less prone to injury than using machines, even though those who use machines look strong on the outside. The body will respond and adapt specifically to the stresses that you put on it. That is the Specificity aspect of the SAID principle as described by my colleague, Neil Sims, in the May 20 Clayton Pioneer. To reiterate, your legs will not get stronger by doing pushups because the legs are not being challenged. Related to this is the Overload principle, which dictates that you must push a muscle or body system beyond what it can perform easily in order to stimulate a change in that system. Your body will then adjust to that system and adapt in preparation for meeting that new demand in the near

future. On the contrary, if you do not challenge yourself in your workouts, your body will atrophy in order to save energy. Effectually, your body will say, “I don’t have to lift that much so why should I expend the energy to maintain this muscle.” But if you challenge yourself, your body says, “I have to add muscle to meet the new demands that have been put on me.” Free weights have great advantages over machines in that they more accurately reflect the challenges people face in the real world. With free weights you must control the weight using your own body, and in order to maintain your balance you activate your smaller, stabilizing muscles to assist the primary muscles that are being targeted. This whole body experience prepares the muscles to meet simple demands of everyday movements in the real world. With machines there is no need for the body to activate those stabilizers because the movement is restricted so that only the large primary muscles are utilized. A great illustration of the ineffectiveness of using machines to become stronger is when someone who exclusively uses machines tries to lift similar loads in the free weight area. That person’s stabilizer muscles will be underdeveloped, and they will have great difficulty keeping the weight steady, if they can lift it at all. Athletes don’t want muscles that just look good – they need to improve their power and agility. During games and competitions, movements are not limited to

defined ranges of motion but instead are challenged with very wide ranges that require activation of both primary and stabilizing muscles in order to perform and reduce the risk of injury. This application of primary and stabilizing muscles is not just for athletes. The average person just wants to be fit and active and not get hurt doing basic things, so injury prevention tends to be valued over performance enhancement. Even though the weights they use may be less than what the elite athlete uses, the principle is the same. In the real world you have to balance everything. In order to prepare for those real world activities, you must perform an activity that challenges you to balance a load. Free weights provide this, regardless of the amount of weight used. In all cases, you still have to challenge yourself to improve.

There are instances, however, where limiting the range of motion and the muscles involved may be beneficial. If you are rehabbing a particular muscle, you may be asked to isolate that muscle and work it individually until it has regained enough strength to be used with other muscles in combined movements. Eventually, the goal is to move back to free weights, a less stable yet real world-applicable activity. Another instance where machines may be preferred is in the case of body builders who don’t have to worry about performance. They are generally only concerned with increasing the size of a muscle, and by limiting a range of motion, they are able to move more weight without having to balance it and stimulate their muscles to increase in size.

Photo courtesy of the Clayton Pioneers

PIONEERS SUPER NIT CHAMPS - Back Row: Coach Jim Snider, Julian Thornton. Middle Row: Manager Tim Bruno, Johnny Doig Kevin O’Connell, Vince Bruno, Mitchell Wilhite, Andrew Gartner, Coach Darrel Matthews. Front Row: Tom Christensen, Tim Mason, Darrel Matthews, Grayson Preuss, Pat Keane, Michael Leal, Matt Sanchez.

See Shape Up, page B5

LET'S GO BOWLING mes One DolldaaysranGd a Thursdays Mondays, Tues 9 p.m. to midnight

925.689.4631

GM EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT FOR EVERYONE OVER 500 NEW 2005s To Choose From

70 Denalis

27 Canyons

100 Crew Cabs

17 CTSs

52 Escalades

17 STSs

75 Yukons

10 Lacrosses

10 GTOs

13 Envoys

75 Ext Cab Sierras

All units plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Subject to credit approval & prior sales. Expires 07/05/05. Rebates not compatible with special rate financing. z #1 Pontiac z GMC Volume Dealer in Contra Costa County for 2001 through 2004.

YOU PAY WHAT WE PAY!

CUSTOM TRUCKS COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B3

Clayton Sports Vince Bruno Bronco program, which has produced some of the finest ball players in the area over the past six years. The 14 year old shortstop led the Eagles to the Diablo Valley East PONY championship while batting a team leading .506 with a slugging percentage of .797 striking out only three times in 88 plate appearances this season. He also had a perfect 21 stolen bases without being caught, 16 RBI and 34 runs scored. In all Bruno led the team in batting average, on base percentage, slugging

PIONEER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT VINCE BRUNO

Vince Bruno is in this month’s Athlete Spotlight. Vince plays PONY baseball for the Clayton Valley Eagles

and the Clayton Valley Pioneers 14 year old traveling team. Both are a part of the Clayton Valley PONY and

Sports Shorts CV YOUTH SUMMER FOOTBALL CAMP Final chance to sign up. June 27 - July 1, 4th Annual Football Camp for Boys entering grades 5- 9 , 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

daily at Clayton Valley High School. CVHS Head Football Coach Herc Pardi is the Camp Director and Jerry Coakley CVHS Defensive Coordinator is the Assistant Camp

Director. $125 Fee and $75 Deposit for Equipment rental includes: Practice Jersey, Awards, Evaluation and an onsite Trainer. Camp Phone: 925-682-7474 x 3115. Applications are available at Ed’s Mudville Grill, Mavericks and the CVHS Office.

MIKE ROSE’S AUTO BODY Clayton resident, Mike Rose, has been in business for over 31 years and has always provided quality repair with excellent customer service!

FIVE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!!! 2001 Fremont Street Concord, Ca 94520 (925) 686-1739

2260 Via De Mercados Concord, Ca 94520 (925) 689-1739

14 California Ave Suite D Pleasanton, Ca 94566 (925) 600-1739 2140 North Broadway Walnut Creek, Ca 94596 (925) 210-1739

2288 North Main Walnut Creek, Ca 94596 (925) 979-1739

CVHS CAR WASH The annual CVHS Car Wash will be held Saturday, June 18 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Clayton Valley High School gym parking lot. Tickets are $5 and a raffle is included in the ticket price. The proceeds from the car wash benefit the football program OAKHURST YOUTH SUMMER GOLF CAMPS Oakhurst Country Club plans to offer golf camps for youth again this summer. Dates and further details should be available next week by calling Oakhurst Proshop at 6732813.

I - CAR GOLD AND ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS APPROVED REPAIR FACILITY FOR ALL MAJOR INSURANCE COMPANIES

High School Football

SPEED

POWER

AGILITY

Come to Velocity &

Combine & Team Challenge

Measure Yourself Against your Competition. On Saturday June 25th we will test your: 40-Yard Dash, 5-10--5, Vertical Jump, Horizontal Jump & Bench Press. Cost: $5/athlete Don’t worry if you can’t make it. We’ll have the teams you play against to keep us company.

Concord

1505 Willow Pass Rd.

(in front of Waterworld USA)

www.velocitysp.com/concord

! le Up d d u H

percentage, runs scored, stolen bases, doubles (10) and triples (5) and total hits in 27 league games. In the recent Palm Springs Super NIT tournament, Bruno (11-19, .579, HR, 3Triples, 4 doubles 7 rbi) led the team offensively and recorded two saves on the mound with a 0.00 era. The Pioneers went on to win the tournament and qualify for the World Series in Oklahoma City. Vince is currently an eighth grade student at Pine Hollow middle school with a

3.7 GPA and will be attending Clayton Valley High in the Fall, where he hopes to play a role in the future success of the Eagle baseball program.

Favorite Sport: Besides baseball; Basketball Favorite Athlete: Nomar Garciaparra Favorite Band: Sugarcult Favorite Subject in School: Math Favorite Type of Food: Rib-eye steak Favorite TV Show: Family Guy

Clayton’s Jedd Soto makes a name for himself at St. Mary’s JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer

Clayton resident Jedd Soto became the youngest NCAA Division I baseball coach in the nation in 2003 when Saint Mary’s College hired him at age 29. Soto was the youngest head coach ever in the West Coast Conference and the youngest in Division I. Soto’s background, his success and his philosophy of coaching made him a unanimous choice of the St. Mary’s players, coaches, administrators and the search committee. Soto was born in San Dimas and grew up in Reno. He graduated from Reed High School, where he was an all-conference and all-state varsity letterman. He came to St. Mary’s from Feather River, a small community college in Quincy. He was the first-ever head coach of the Feather River baseball program, which begun in 1998. He had the opportunity to start a brand new program, including building the baseball field in 1997. He not only established the program, but he developed baseball into a perennial power during his six years there. In 2003 Soto led Feather River to a California State Final Four finish, while posting a 36-12 record. Feather River reached the playoffs each year between 2000 and 2003, while winning the Golden Valley Conference champi-

onship for three straight seasons. Soto was named Golden Valley Conference Coach of the Year in 2001, 2002 and 2003, and posted a career record of 167-85 at Feather River. Soto’s was instrumental in developing seven First Team All-Americans, eight players drafted by Major League Baseball (five from the 2003 team), nine First Team AllState honorees, 28 First Team All-GVC selections, and one Freshman All-American. The Golden Eagles sent 44 players to four-year institutions, including 15 athletes to Division I schools. He demonstrated that he knew how to develop young players from the ground up. In 2002 his Feather River pitching staff had the lowest team earned run average (2.20) in California, out of 78 teams. Additionally, Feather River was awarded with the prestigious Statewide Pepsi Team Scholar Award in 2002 when his team earned a 3.47 GPA. His team was also a four-time recipient of the school’s Academic Team of the Year Award. Following the 2002 season, Soto was elected division chair for the math, physical and life sciences instructional division at Feather River. Before Feather River, Soto was an assistant coach at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Call 925.363.0066

to sign up for the 1 p.m. , 2:30 p.m. or 4 p.m. Combine

Morning Circuit Training

FITNESS & TANNING

Mon/Wed/Fri 8:15 - 9 a.m.

Men and Women

Buy One

FREE TWO L

WEEK TRIA L IP MEMBERSH

n o i s s e S g n i n n Ta Get one

FREE!

through 6/30/05

Personal PT with Frank and Mike in the morning! Call for an appointment

Clayton Fitness & Tanning 925-672-2010 z 672-2005 (fax) 1516 Kirker Pass Road (Located in the Clayton Station)

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 5am - 10pm Sat. 7am - 5pm Sun. 8am - 5pm

Frank Lagau, owner, C.P.T. Mike Quinata, C.P.T.

The Clayton Pioneer spotlights a local youth athlete from our circulation area in the second issue each month and Rocco’s congratulates the athlete with a free pizza. If you are a coach or an administrator and would like to nominate a young person (under 20 years of age) for the Rocco's Athlete Spotlight, please send information to sports@claytonpioneer.com or fax to 6726580. Deadline for our July 15 issue is Tuesday, July 5.

photo by Bob Sansoe

ST. MARY’S COLLEGE COACH JEDD SOTO (left) is the youngest

NCAA Division I baseball coach in the country.

photo by Bob Sansoe

JEDD SOTO

While working under head coach Gary Powers, Soto helped the team to win the Northern Division of the Big West Conference in 1997 and an atlarge bid to the Central Region II Regional playoffs. As a player, Soto’s collegiate experience began at the College of Southern Idaho, where he earned a full scholarship. He had much success in junior college and was named All Region 18 Pitcher, Team Captain and was selected Preseason All American his sophomore year. Soto’s team also won two conference titles, one tri-regional, and a trip to the Junior College World Series. Soto later earned a full scholarship to play at the University of Louisiana, Monroe, where he pitched under the baseball system of head coach “Smoke” Laval. “I developed my baseball philosophy from Smoke,” Soto said. “I was very fortunate to have been exposed to some incredible coaching during my career.” Soto’s team at U of L won a total of 83 games, two Southland Conference Championships and a bid to the South I Division Regional. He finished his college pitching career with an overall record of 24-4, along with 19 saves. “I have developed my own philosophy about coaching from the University of Louisiana’s baseball mission statement,” Soto said. “At St. Mary’s we strive for excellence on and off the field by using integrity, character and a strong work ethic to succeed in and out of the classroom. That’s our philosophy.” Soto earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in marketing and management, and minors in real estate and insurance. He completed a dual master’s degree from the United

See Soto, page B5

Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

$1.00 off any large smoothie when you mention this ad Serving fresh fruit

La Veranda Café

smoothies,

espresso drinks, & a fresh & healthy variety of breakfast, lunch & dinner items for you & your family.

Located in

Northern Italian Cuisine in downtown Clayton Fresh soups, salads, antipasti, pizza and pasta Dinner and lunch daily Brunch on Sunday

Mavericks Sports Club at 5294 Clayton Road in Concord,

Children’s menu and take out service available

Ask us about Catering.

Non-members welcome

For reservations call

now owned by Clayton resident, Susan O'Toole OPEN Monday - Thursday 8 - 8 z Friday & Saturday 8 - 2.

(925) 524-0011 6201 CENTER ST. CLAYTON

Phone 429-3320

, a.m. nch Bru om 10 fr

Formerly Linguini’s - NEW OWNER, NEW MENU - Now open, featuring:

grilled steak, shrimp, chicken and veggies large variety of pizzas and pastas!

Hours: Mon. – Fri. 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

1508 Kirker Pass Rd. behind Shell Station

Banquet facilities available

672-6868

Complimentary Soft Drink with Lunch, Every Day

Adult Softball Players and Teams go to n at., e p O a.m week 11 ays a 7d

Lo Roccally co own Bia ed by le

11 TV ’S

to sport watch s!

Open l 947-6 ate!! ww 1 0 spizze 5

w.roc co

ria.co

after the game Enjoy a small one item pizza

Free

with purchase of any large pizza

Rd. alley V o i nac d. 9 Yg 290 k Grove R k e a at O nut Cre l a W in

Must be in uniform, Not valid w/other offers

t s y It’s alwa

Fr ie

ight time for tea r e h

Englund's Tea Cottage NEW SUMMER MENU ITEMS!

Fresh & fruity iced teas & lemonades Crispy salads: Chicken Caesar Tropical fruit with sorbet Sweet spinach w/ gorgonzola, nuts & strawberries Chicken pear pecan Advance tickets now on sale for

DESSERT BINGO TEA FRI. JULY 8TH, 6 P.M.

Private party room available for events.

and Come our browse and op gift sh ibles collect

5433 L Clayton Road (in Clayton Station)

672-TEAS (8327) www.EnglundsTeaCottage.com Open Weekdays 11 - 4, Weekends 11 - 5 (closed Mondays)

joy An Italian En Fe

ast at Ou r

Mon. – Thurs. Co zy P fé 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. asta Pr avera Ca im Fri. 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sat. 12 noon – 10 p.m. / Sun. 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Fine Italian dining with an extensive menu • Weekend Special - grilled steaks • Gourmet desserts and fine wines Very reasonable prices

ath

If you're hungry and want healthy food, CAFÉ SANTE is the perfect place to be. Ideally located in Maverick's Sports Club on Clayton Road where parking is plentiful, Café Sante offers an inviting menu with delicious items made fresh while you wait. For breakfast try the breakfast burrito or grab a bagel or muffin before you head to work. And for lunch or dinner, Café Sante has some interesting menu items like the "Wrap it Up" caesar, veggie or deli style. There's salads and daily grill selections like chicken, ball-tip or salmon served as a sandwich or Caesar salad. If you're in the mood for something hot, try the home-made turkey chili, spinach lasagne or soups and stews. Café Sante has a coffee bar, kids menu and a successful catering business The casual ambiance makes this an inviting place to dine any time. And you will enjoy meeting owner Susan O'Toole who greets everyone with a smile and great service. Coming soon is Café Sante's Frozen Yogurt bar. Don’t be mislead by the name of this delightful family restaurant just over the hill in in the Citrus Marketplace. MARY’S PIZZA SHACK is definitely NOT a shack, and you can find a lot more on the menu than just pizza-although the pizza is a fine choice, indeed. Mary’s Pizza Shack serves up a delicious array of pizza and Italian dishes with both a luncheon and dinner menu. For lunch, try the Bucatini with a small Caesar. perfectly al dente pasta lightly sauteed in butter with garlic, fresh tomatoes and basil. And if you like Caesar Salad, Mary’s is exceptional-ice cold and crisp. And the pizza ---ahhh. Melt-in-your-mouth crust and only the freshest ingredients go into this legendary pizza. Mary’s loves families so bring the kids. Pizzas range from $7 for a small Napoletana to $20.50 for the

4425-F Treat Blvd. Concord, CA 94521

687-5 5300

www.pastaprimaveracafe.com

Dining Around

a imos Day M E FRE ther’s e 19 Fa Jun

June 17, 2005

large Mary’s Combination. A pasta lunch will run you $7.25-$9.25; dinner $10.75$13.25. Both include soup or salad, warm sourdough bread and beverage. See Mary’s Pizza Shack ad this page. Linguini’s is now the PAVILION BAR AND GRILL. New owner, Hamid Shahrodizadh has added specialty items from the grill to Linguini’s traditional Italian fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, gnocchi, tortellini and vongole. Grilled items include steaks, fish and veggies and range from $5.95 for an appetizer of cheese sticks to $19.95 for the New York strip topped with sauteed mushrooms. Pizza lovers will all be happy with the new selections. Vegetarians can choose from three selections including the Mediterranean, topped with mozzarella, spinach, sun dried tomatoes, olives, garlic, Feta cheese and drizzled with a light olive oil. The Meat Lover’s Pizza is topped with enough pepperoni, sausage, beef and salami to put every meat lover in paradise. Pizzas come in small, medium, large and extra large sizes and range from $9.95 for a small classic cheese pizza to $22.95 for an extra large Super Combo. See ad this page for hours. ELYSIUM also has a brand new menu with more choices and lower prices. Dishes range from “small plates,” featuring appetizers, soups and salads from $5 for Organic Field Greens with toasted hazelnuts, beets and champagne vinegar, to a Half Dozen Oysters on the Half Shell for $12. “Medium plates-good for tasting,” (try the Cornmeal Crusted Calamari Salad with spicy aioli for $7.50) are great for a light meal, or you can combine them with a smaller plate for a complete meal. “Large plates, good for an entree” include Halibut and a Five

Spice Dusted Duck Breast for $15; or Flank Steak and Frites (simple as that) for $14 among other choices. Owner Greg Severn has also added a “Little Ones Only” menu and heartily welcomes families with children. See Elysium’s ad this page for hours. Are you ready for a relaxing afternoon with friends, enjoying a pot of tea and delectable treats in a beautiful full service tea room? ENGLUND'S TEA COTTAGE offers these amenities and more at their lovely tea room in the Clayton Station. Proprietors Sally Englund and Pamela Barnett want the tea cottage to be a place "where good friends gather." After you browse the gift shop and collectibles, enjoy lunch or high tea with tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, fresh fruit and dip and dessert. There's a beautiful muraled room perfect for bridal and baby showers, staff meetings and club gatherings. To book your party, call 672-8327. Lunch reservations are a must. Do you have a hunger for Thai food but your dining partner is holding out for Indian? Not a problem. The new HOT BASIL CAFÉ in Concord can meet both your culinary desires for lunch or dinner. The menu has separate Thai and Indian pages but is a melding of the two cuisines. All lunches are under $10 and dinners are in the $9.95$13.95 range. See ad this page for hours. If you have a hearty appetite and a slim budget, you'll want to head on over to MOUNTAIN MIKE'S for the "All you can eat lunch buffet" Mondays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. With two locations to serve you, the popular pizza restaurant has all the pizza, garlic sticks and salad bar you can eat for lunch. Price is only $4.99, kids 6 & under, $1.15 and kids 712, $2.99. There's also an "All you can eat" pizza and salad bar every Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. for $5.99 for adults; kids 6 and under is only $1.15 and kids 7-12, $3.45.

See Dining, page B5

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Dining, from page B4 For fine dining and lovely atmosphere, downtown Clayton has two very fine dining establishments. At the corner of Center and Marsh Creek Road is LA VERANDA, serving a Northern Italian menu of pasta, pizza, chicken, veal and fish, starting at $8.50 for Bruchetta

$ $ $

5 4 3

with olive oil, fresh tomatoes, garlic and basil. Pasta dishes range from $9 for Penne All’arrabiata to $11.75 for Spaghettini Frutti di Mare. A popular choice, La Veranda is open daily for lunch and dinner and on Sunday for brunch. For view and atmosphere

50% OFF

00 Off

X-Large

00 Off

Second Pizza Buy any large or

Large

00 Off

medium pizza at regular price and get 1/2 off second pizza of equal or lesser value

Medium

ALL

Mountain Mike’s Pizza Valid at participating stores only. Expires 12/31/05

YOU CAN EAT LUNCH BUFFET

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Only $4.99 6 & under $1.15 kids 7-12 $2.99 5358 Clayton Rd. Concord

3501 Clayton Rd. Concord

(Next to Clayton Bowl)

(El Monte Shopping Center)

689-4965

676-9000

Fundraisers z Team Specials z Group Discounts z Parties

american contemporary bistro in downtown Clayton

E lysium

Dinner Tue - Sat, 5 p.m. closed Monday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

“Elysium is a bit of heaven in the suburbs”

Sunday Brunch

-San Francisco Chronicle, 2/18/2005

Open for Father’s Day Dinner

r a B l Ful on

o o S g n i m o C 672-11333

for reservations

ting Patio Sea blee ila Now Ava

6115 Main Street Clayton, CA email: e lysium_restaurant@sbcglobal.net

Thai cuisine

Indian cuisine curries, tandooris freshly baked breads

fresh soup and salads pad thai, pad kemo chicken sate

Hot Basil Café

Enjoy both Indian and Thai Cuisine Open 7 days a week Lunch: Dinner:

Mon. - Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sun. - Thu. 5-9 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 5-9:30 p.m.

790 D Oak Grove Road At the corner of Oak Grove Road and Treat Blvd.

925-288-0000 All menu items available for take-out

Let us cater your next special event

eet tooth! w s r u o y Indulge mplimentar y

Co desser t house inner with dcoupon, exp. 6/30/05 with

Fine dining on the beautiful Delta View Golf Course

you can’t do better than ZANDONELLA’S situated on the lovely Delta View Golf Course in Pittsburg. Zandonella’s is open Tue.Sun for lunch and dinner. This family friendly restaurant offers an extensive menu that covers every craving. From that perfect bowl of Spaghetti and Meatballs all the way to a succulent and perfectly roasted rack of lamb, you are sure to find your favorite. All entrees include soup or salad, pasta and bread. The view is free. Call for reservations, 432-1700. Just down Clayton Road at the corner of Clayton Road and Treat Blvd., is PASTA PRIMAVERA. This lovely little trattoria offers a delectable linguini with garlic and mushrooms in a virgin olive oil for $8.95...my personal favorite. Other pasta dishes include Chicken Pesto Gorgonzola, a rigatoni dish with chicken breast and tomatoes in a creamy pesto Gorgonzola sauce ($13.95.) For an intimate atmosphere and a good wine list, Pasta Primavera can’t be beat. A little more on the casual side and a great place to take the kids is ROCCO’S RISTORANTE at 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek. Voted the best pizza in the Bay Area by a Contra Costa Times Reader Poll, Rocco’s serves up a killer house specialty. The Dominator, piled high with pepperoni, salami, mushrooms, ham, linguica, sausage and onions, is not for the faint of heart. At $19.97, this large pizza will feed a small army. Rocco’s also has several choices of classic Italian pasta, homemade minestrone and several salads. All pasta dishes are served with fresh bread. Top your pasta dinner off with a glass of wine and you’re well fed and satisfied for well under $20 (tax and tip included.) Rocco’s opens every day at 11 a.m.

Soto, from page B3 States Sports Academy in Science and Sports Administration in July 2003. Soto and his wife, Carly, now call Clayton home. In addition to his collegiate background, Soto was a sixyear associate scout for the Philadelphia Phillies. Soto said he is “really excited to be at St. Mary’s and have an opportunity to build St. Mary’s into one of the premier baseball programs in California and become nationally ranked.” “There is really positive energy at SMC among all the various sports’ coaches, the administration and staff,” Soto said The SMC baseball team had a good season this year with a record of 20-30. “We beat Santa Clara two out of three, and we beat the University of Nevada at Reno two out of three” and SMC played some other tough teams, including Gonzaga, Portland, Pepperdine, Cal and Stanford, Soto said. One of Soto’s current play-

Lunch: Tue. - Fri. or Dinner: Tue. - Sun. Sports Bar open 7 days Breakfast & Lunch

We’re just over the hill 2222 Golf Club Road, Pittsburg (925) 432-1700 From Clayton, take Kirker Pass over the hill Turn left on Leland to Golf Club Road

ers is from Clayton Valley High School. Clayton native Sam Carter is a senior with junior eligibility. Carter had played for Diablo Valley College one year and later was cut from the team before later making the St. Mary’s team. In his first SMC season in 2004, Carter received West Coach Conference Honorable Mention as an outfielder, and this year he made First Team West Coast Conference. This year the players selected Carter to share the Most Valuable Player Award, known as the Mark Teahen award, named after the current Kansas City Royal third baseman and former Gael. Carter was also named the Gael’s Offensive Player of the Year. He batted cleanup for the Gaels and with a .350 batting average, seven home runs and 50 RBIs, and he led the team in almost every offensive category. Although he has another year of eligibility there is a chance he may get drafted by a Major League team. The Gaels also have two other noteworthy local players

who played at De La Salle. Mike Sansoe, a senior outfielder, made Second Team All Conference and Bryan Byrne, a junior first baseman, made First Team West Coast Conference. Both of those players also have a chance to be drafted. Soto said he is recruiting several kids from Clayton Valley High School for next year in his ongoing efforts to build his program. Beginning July 1, St. Mary’s College baseball program will have available the full 11.7 baseball scholarships allowed for all Division I teams. For the first time SMC will be able to compete on an equal footing with other teams in the Conference for collegiate baseball talent. “One of SMC’s biggest advantages is that it is such a strong academic school,” Soto said. “Our biggest challenge is that as a mid-major program, SMC baseball needs to establish itself as a consistent annual winner.” That, along with St. Mary’s academic reputation, its new, fully-funded scholarships and Soto’s drive and success both on and off the field should help St. Mary’s and Soto achieve their goals.

Shape Up, from page B2 Preventing injury applies to everyone. Generally, people get injured when finding themselves in an awkward position that puts too much stress on a particular body part. If one’s stabilizing muscles are developed, the stronger muscles will be more likely able to withstand the stresses of the bad positioning, and the likelihood of injury is decreased. Free weights are much more effective than weight machines in preparing the body for the stresses it faces on a daily basis and preventing injuries overall whether one engages in strenuous sport activities or simply needs to get out of the house in a hurry. Chad Dammen has experience training all ages and skill levels in movement mechanics and strength training. He has his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. He can be reached at concord@velocitysp.com

Celebrating 5 years in business

Italian-American cuisine prepared perfectly, every time. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, we feature Prime Rib cooked exactly the way you like it. Every dinner includes choice of fresh green salad or our homemade soup, pasta and vegetables.

Bring the family and join us for

Page B5

Sid Landman President

Join us for Wine & Food

BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL PROBLEM SOLVING FOR GROWING COMPANIES

Business and Financial Consulting Management Counseling for Business Leaders Recruiting Top Talent for Your Company Coaching and Counseling for Job Seekers

CALL NOW & schedule an initial NO COST consultation

925-673-8817 925-673-8818 Fax

650-868-0151 Mobile sid@landmanconsulting.com

July 2 & 9 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

July 1 - 15 get a one-hour massage for $55. some restrictions apply

Call (925) 673-0 0686 for an appointment

Clayton Mind & Body Connections

1007 Oak Street, Clayton, CA 94517

www.mind-and-body-connections.com

Page B6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer Congratulations to Clayton Valley High School Class of 2005 Amy Nicole Abad Adriana Aceves Robert Anthony Adan Mauricio Daniel Ageno Esteban Alfaro-Gamero Justin Mark Allred Pricilla Viridiana Alvarez Matthew William Alvis Margad-Erden Amgalanbaatar Katharine Lucy Anderson Trevor Jerome Anderson Ross Lyndon Angle Mariel Anguiano Katherine Rose Antaki Radoslav Marek Antczak Jason Arbildo Kathleen Erin Arness Alaina Michelle Arnot Vanessa Arreola Ana Mariela Arreygue Heather Nicole Arruda Channing Janelle Arthur Saad Ali Asghar Erica Annee Ashby Heather Marie Ashton Amanda Yvette Austin Kelsey Andrew Austria Tanya Ivette Avelar Brittney Alisha Avery Abdullah Umarfaruk Azam Kathryn Ellise Baldree Jamie Marie Baldwin Kyle Steven Ballard Mitchell Clayton Bambach Nicole Marie Bamberger Linsey Kristine Barger Abideh Barikzai Hujatullah Bayat Kristin Elizabeth Bayles Gina Louise Bazil Laura Suzanne Beck George Kenneth Beckham Juliene Marie Bedecarre Zachary Jacob Bednarz Keith Edward Beeman Kathryn Elizabeth Bekakis Heather Nichole Bell Beth Ann Bergum DeVon Rakeem Tucker-Berry Stephanie Jane Billett Pamela Jean Bishop Rebecca Lynne Bohling Saida Francesca Boyajy Krystal Rose Brautigam Nickolas Albert Bray Ashley Elizabeth Bridgman Alexandar Alexandrov Brijitzki Allison Ann Brown Brandon Winchester Brown Brittany Mila Brown Winwin Maloles Bruce Teralyn Jo Bruketta Nicole Barbara Budesa David Martin Buhagiar W. Gary Byington Jacqueline Jo Calleja Steven Joseph Camera Steven Thomas Campbell Thomas Andrew Cantu Yanira Margarita Carcamo-Muller Daniel Cardona Jr. Nicole Elizabeth Cardone Kimberly Ann Carman Shea Daniel Carrigan Daniel Alberto Carrillo Darren Thomas Carroll Mitchell Nolan Case Kristen Marie Caya Mayra Alejandra Celi Colby James Chambers Matthew Justin Christensen Shannon Marie Christensen Michelle Marie Christiana Stefani Rose Cinto Ashley Marie Ciullo John David Clark Cody William Clausen Amy Elizabeth Cleland Traci Christina Coombs Natacha Correa

Alysa Catherine Covione Sarah Nicole Cueto Nicholas Joseph Culum Deborah Ann Cunningham Kristen Lauren Curry Michelle Suzanne Curtis Casey Marie Daly Brian Michael Davis Lindsay Marie Davis Arnoldo Jose DeLeon Michael Anthony DeOrio Russell James DeSoto Gina Stephanie DeVecchio Daniel Joseph Del Bene Antonio G. Diaz Jr Megan Michelle Dickey Vanessa Flora Di Tullio Eric Alan Dixon John Paulo Dominguez Erika Lynn Dong Amanda Leigh Donner Alexander Alan Druar Christopher Lazaro Duenas Erin Quinn Duncan Sarah Jean Duncan Cameron Dax Dyson Daniel William Erickson Natalia Escruceria Kusy Harumi Espinoza Joshua James Esquibel Sohaillah Faizyar Claudia Caterina Famiglietti Jonathan Gomez Farnden Jacob Turner Faust Nadim Gerguis Fawzy Sean Michael Fitzgerald Catherine Elizabeth Flynn Justine April Fong Lauren Dominga Foote Sharla Roseann Ford Lauren Elizabeth Fowler Jessica Lindley Fox Jawaun Emon Frazier Joel Andrew Fredrickson Kelsey Elizabeth Fuller Xela Parreno Gaerlan Francisco Antonio Galan-Bran Meagan Leigh Galliano Daniel Gerald Gallup Jessica Joyce Gamba Rachelle Marie Gandaro Maria Isabel David Gando Bethany Ann Garchar Debora Maciel Garcia Jejomar Olarte Garcia Julia Anne Gates Lauren Nicole Gehring Daniel Joseph Gentry Frank James George Steven Richard Gerhart Anna De Jean Gibbons Allison Laureen Gibson Elizabeth Catherine Gierak William Ricasata Godizano Benyam Desta Goitom Sabrina Renee Goldman Ernesto Gonzalez Korance Scott Goodwin Matthew Robert Gorgen Scott Christopher Gorgen Hayley Elizabeth Gourlay Alexander Gregory Grauer Channing Grace Gronner Anthony Mitchell Gross Braelyn Louise Guerrero Matthew Brandon Guillen Andrea Alejandra Gutierrez Kristina Laura Hagar Arzo Hakimzada Miles Callyn Hammond Kathryn Nicole Harrel Christopher James Harris Daniel James Harris Kristin Kathleen Harris Megan Brittany Hatchel Michelle Ashley Haworth Andrew Richard Heckenliable Kimberly Nicole Heisey Jason Wayne Helms Kimberly Anne Hendricks

STONE TREE

The Tree Experts since 1977

Looking for a Tree Hugger? We specialize in

QUALITY PRUNING & TREE REMOVAL

with no damage to plants or property

Free estimates & Low fee consultations

Evan Whitney Hersh Justine Marin Highsmith Chloe Marie Hill Jessica Michel Hiller Karith Reyher Hilmer Erick Fuentes Hinojosa Lindsay Kaye Hobbs Benjamin Martin Hoedt Erin Marie Hoffman Julian Andres Hogan Rebecca Ann Hoobler Shanel Lena Wright Hooks April Christine Hougey Clay Martin Houseman ShaoYung Hu Jesse John Hunt Juliann Nicole Hutchins Zahra Ibrahimi Sabrina Jean Inloes Janelle Midori Iyoya Kayla Jackman Trevor Clinton Jackson James Darius Jalili Garrett Thomas Jaronczyk Allison Elizabeth Jarvis Bryan Michael Johnson Christie Rae Johnson Jessica Ellen Johnson Matthew Steven Jones Nicole Marie Jones G Addison Jorgensen Matthew James Jue Andrew David Kahl Jacob Zackary Kaplan Jeremy Kanoho Kawamura Thomas Mitchell Kealey Michael Nikolas Keenan Christopher Keith Kerns Zaheedah Kulsum Khan Chaddis R. King Lindsay Dale Kiyama Abra Chantel Kliegman Ashlyn Jo Kuiper Kristen Holly Langford Bernabe Rey Lara Janet Catherine Larwood Hosa Abdul Latif Aaron James Laux Collin Edward Lee Keviann Lee Robert Stivers Lee Lindsay Aline Leininger Gilary Maria Leiva Elizabeth Anne Leyden John Winston Logan Johnathan Earl Looper Kevin Demetrios Louchis Garrett Andrew Lovell Christian David Lowe Kristen Michelle Lucas Stephanie Deann Lucido Courtney Lashae Lynch Charles Thomas Macaluso Julie Sataya Macksey Mary Jo Malabuyo Trevor Shane Malone Nicole Marie Maly Sean Vincent Manley Michael Philip Maramag James Russell Mares Ismael Salvador Marquez Pamela Victoria Marroquin Sarah Jean Martin Julie Ann Martinez Leonid Breshnev Martinez Brandon Kyle Maxwell James Edward Maxwell Jr. Jonathan Frances McCormick Amber Christine McCoy Angela Rose McCurdy Thomas Wayne McDevitt Sheryl Danielle McMahan Joshua Michael McQuade Jennifer Ann Mead JoAnna Mae Mead Matthew D. Mead Darren Frank Mendelsohn Mio Christian Mendez Maria Elizabeth Mendoza Megan Ashley Merrill

Cory Raymond Miller Robert Eric Milligan Kathryn Marie Minor Sayed Ahassan Miry Jeffrey Donald Moffit Hasina Rahmata Mojadidi Jiyoung Moon Kyle Robert Moore Gebbar Morales David Cory Morehouse Jonathan Alexandre Moreno Alicia Marie Morrissey Larry Harold Morton III William James Moser Amanda Marie Louise Mourelatos Shawna Marie Muela Jessica Elise Myers Zainab Nasser-Zia Ashley Suzanne Nelson Derek Paul Neufeld Alexandra E. Nichols Sarah Caitlin Nichols Tobey Lewis Nichols Mykel Seth Nickovich Kellie Ann Nielsen Marissa Suzanne Nielson Azeeta L. Nikoui Ryan Richard Nist Nicollette Noel Kristen Marie Nolting Sarah Michelle Nunnally Michelle Lorene Ojima Ashley Marie Oliver Jessica Therese Ortega Raymond Allen Owens Stacie Luz Palma Joseph M. Pandolfi Francreed De Ramos Papa Jessica Evelyn Pardo Gabriela Estefania Paredes Maria Alexandra Paredes Priya Harshadbhai Patel Trusha Nataverbhai Patel Heather Alyssa Payne Amanda Kathleen Pelham Natalie Marie Pelletier Felicia Fried Perez Lance David Perez Marie Adelle Merchan Perez Andrea Celeste Perona Katrina Carroll-Ann Phelps Heather Kristiahn Pimentel Jason Timothy Poltl Taylor Brooke Pousard Emily Fujiko Powell Joseph Scott Powers Kelly Francis Price Kelley Lynn Queen Clayton Kyle Quintero Stephanie Marie Rabbitt Veronica Cathleen Rapicavoli Behnaz Raufi Shahzad Raufi Lisbeth Suyapa Recinos Christian Charles Remington Matthew David Resendez Christine Marie Reyes Jahnava Jean Reyes Christine Garlitos Richards Amber Caryn Riley Timothy Camden Ritter Jaimee Danielle Rizzotti Matthew Alan Robison Heather Paige Rodrigues Melissa Rodriguez Miguel Angel Rodriguez Brittney Kaulana Rollins Challyn Kahealani Rollins Sylvia Alexandra Ronquillo Naomi Rebecca Rupp Daniel Oren Ryals Shane Robert Ryan Omira Mariam Sadeq Samuel Orlando Santos Joseph Albert Saraceno Diana Catherine Sargent Daniel Mark Schacherer Mathieu Roy Schilling Maegan Nicole Schrauth Kelly Rose Scroggs

RENEW & R EFRESH Spring into Summer

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY

buy three... get one free

Any one-h hour massage - $65

(bikini only; no Brazilian)

CYNTHIA GREGORY

PERMANENT SOLUTION

Richard Stone z ISA Certified Arborist #2245

286-5162

Insured for Worker’s Comp & Liability

Bella Mia Spa

bare-ly there

bikini wax special!

(925) 7 98-2 2 094

CA lic # 629457

Ghazal Sharif Deepika Sharma Marissa Leigh Shealor Jeffrey Alan Shelby Trista Rae Shideler Hafifa Vergara Siddiq Mehgan Gissell Sierra Neal David Silvester Pierre Marcel Sirot Sharon Jeanette Skandalaris Shaqu’lia Shantel Smith Trent Edward Snedden Courtney Ann Snow Jaclyn Marie Soares Ryan Jeffrey Sprague Michelle Ann Steffens Willard Stone Brandon Nicholas Stratton Thomas Joseph Sullivan Zoe Amelia Sullivan Jessica Lynnie Sumner Alex Ross Svoboda Wesley Szehner Lindsay Wingsee Tang John Robert Teget Deanna Nichole Terry Rachael Marie Thomas Robynn Elise Thomas Samantha Rae Thomas Chase Daniel Thompson Tracie Ann Timmer Eunice Jessica Tjahjadi Celeste Noel Tomasulo Samantha Tomaszewski Sonia Tomaszewski Megan Torkildson Armando Gomez Torres Krystal Torres Ashley Nicole Totah Jenny Tran Michael Anthony Trujillo Rooster Jay Tucker Tyesha Marie Turner Maria Luisa Valdivia Kimberly Anne Van Buskirk Stephanie Nicole Van Dyke Adam Richard Vandehey Sara Lynn Veal Luis Alberto Verdugo Anthony Vigeant Marie Bernadette Villanueva Katherine Jane Von Der Lieth Andrew David Vorpahl Arya Wahaj Cory Robert Wahlberg Bryce William Walker Jennifer Rae Warner Stephanie Emily Warren-Kigenyi Lauren Jean Watase Brett Frederick Waterhouse Billy Joseph Watkins Keith Kim Welch Britton William Wells Cynthia Lynn West Brent Cory White Keith Ryan White Zoe Marie Whitesides Ian Gregory Will Shawna Christine Williams Amy Laurel Willoughby Anthony Michael Wilson Tatiana Tanecia Wilson Mari Miranda Wines Travis John Wirth Kate Elizabeth Wojcik David Wai Wong Trenton Michael Wright Benjamin James Wu Cherelle Marie Wynne Austin James Yaple Candace Nicole Younger Laura Michele Zane Mathew James Zefeldt Kayla Ann Marie Zeidler Edward Shih Zhao Yakov Alexandrov Zherebnenko Jeffrey Scott Zimmerman Charles Anthony Zinnerman Sara Lynn Zsenai Adam Joseph Zukauckas

6200-C Center Street, Clayton

Non-m members welcome & non-ffathers too! exp. 7/1/05

Located inside Mavericks Sports Club 5294 Clayton Rd., Concord

680-7 7792

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B7

CVHS Class of 2005 Award Winners Anderson, Katharine

President’s Education Award Bank of America Certificate of Achievement—Science

Angle, Ross

CVHS Department Award – Mathematics California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award National Merit Commended Scholar Linfield College Trustee Scholarship

Antaki, Katherine

Clayton Business & Community Assoc. Scholarship California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Governor’s Scholars Award

Avelar, Tanya

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Baldree, Kathryn

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Bank of America Plaque of Achievement—Applied Arts

Bamberger, Nicole

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Bank of America Certificate of Achievement—Spanish Governor’s Scholars Award

Bayat, Hujatullah

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Beckham, George

Governor’s Scholars Award Pete Laurence Wrestling Scholarship Clayton Business & Community Assoc. Scholarship

Bergum, Beth

DeVecchio, Gina

Inloes, Sabrina

President’s Education Award

Dong, Erika

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Druar, Alexander

CVHS Department Award – Industrial Technology Matt Galvin Memorial Scholarship

Escruceria, Natalia

University of San Francisco – Academic Scholarship

Espinoza, Kusy

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Faizyar, Sohaillah

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Flynn, Catherine

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Senior Women Gold Scholarship CSF Seymour Finalist Clayton Valley Future Teacher’s Scholarship

Ford, Sharla

John Millar Track/Cross Country Scholarship

Fuller, Kelsey

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Governor’s Scholars Award Clayton Valley Alumni Scholarship

Gallup, Daniel

CVHS Department Award – Business

Gamba, Jessica

President’s Education Award National Merit Commended Scholar Governor’s Scholars Award Antioch Management Scholarship

CVHS Department Award – Foreign Language President’s Education Award Governor’s Scholars Award St. Mary’s College Presidential Scholarship & Honors at Entrance

Gando, Maria

Brautigam, Krystal

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award

CVHS Department Award – Drama

Bruketta, Teralyn

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Budesa, Nicole

CVHS Department Award – Social Science California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Bank of America Certificate of Achievement –ClaytonArts Academy Clayton Women’s Club Scholarship

Calica, Felicia

Senior Women Bronze Scholarship

Campbell, Steven

President’s Education Award Bank of America Certificate of Achievement — Trades Governor’s Scholars Award

Carrigan, Shea

Matt Nolen Memorial Scholarship

Caya, Kristen

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Colombo Club Scholarship

Christiana, Michelle

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award

Cleland, Amy

CVHS Department Award – Physical Education

Cueto, Sarah

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award

r F oa s e Le

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Garchar, Bethany

Graceland University, Iowa – Athletic Scholarship

Gibbons, Anna

Gorgen, Matthew

University of California, Berkeley — Baseball Scholarship Clayton Valley Athlete of the Year

Harrel, Kathryn

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Governor’s Scholars Award

Haworth, Michelle

LEADERSHIP ALTAIR Senior Women Bronze Scholarship California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Governor’s Scholars Award

Iyoya, Janelle

SERVICE ALTAIR California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Bank of America Plaque of Achievement—Liberal Arts Governor’s Scholars Award University of California, Berkeley –Alumni Scholarship

Jue, Matthew

CVHS Department Award – ClaytonArts Academy

Richard B. Irvine Scholar Athlete Award Athlete of the Year California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Bank of America Certificate of Achievement – Social Science Governor’s Scholars Award University of California, Davis – Athletic Scholarship

Clayton Valley Future Teacher Scholarship

Hoobler, Rebecca

Bank of America Achievement Award –- Drama

Hougey, April

CVHS Department Award – Science Governor’s Scholars Award

Hutchins, Juliann

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Sell your home while prices are high and rent this one while waiting for the new homes at Diablo Pointe

$3 pe

Tang, Lindsay

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Bank of America Certificate of Achievement— Math Governor’s Scholars Award

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award United States Air Force Academy Appointment

Teget, John

Nielson, Marissa

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

President’s Education Award National Merit Semifinalist Governor’s Scholars Award

Thompson, Chase Tjahadi, Eunice

Palma, Stacy Luz

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer St. Mary’s College – Academic Scholarship

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award National Merit Commended Scholar Governor’s Scholars Award

Lee, Keviann

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Point Loma University Music Scholarship

Villanueva, Marie

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Watkins, Billy

CVHS Department Award – English President’s Education Award Governor’s Scholars Award

West, Cynthia

Patel, Trusha

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Bank of America Certificate of Achievement—Music Governor’s Scholars Award Clayton Business & Community Assoc. Scholarship

Pelletier, Natalie

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Pardo, Jessica

Bay Area Title VII Indian Education Council Scholarship

Whitesides, Zoe

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Will, Ian

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Raufi, Behnaz

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Governor’s Scholars Award

Richards, Christine

Williams, Shawna

Louchis, Kevin

Ritter, Timothy

Willoughby, Amy

Lovell, Garrett

Rollins, Challyn

Zefeldt, Matthew

Rupp, Naomi

Zsenai, Sara

GRAND ALTAIR CVHS Department Award — Music California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Bank of America Plaque of Achievement – Fine Art American Association of University Women Scholarship Clayton Business & Community Assoc. Scholarship Northern Arizona University — Presidential Scholarship

Schrauth, Maegan

Senior Women Silver Scholarship California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Scroggs, Kelly

CVHS DepartmentAward – Special Education

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Diablo Scholarship

“Happy Hammer” Free estimates Appliance replacements General maintenance Pressure washing

(925) 673-9433 Skip England

Handyman Service

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Lucas, Kristen

John Millar Track/Cross Country Scholarship

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

University of California, Riverside – Athletic Scholarship

Governor’s Scholars Award Clayton Business & Community Assoc. Scholarship

Macksey, Julie

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

President’s Education Award Governor’s Scholars Award

Lowe, Christian

4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, more than 3,100 square feet. Magnificent views.

925-683-9262

CVHS Department Award — Publications California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Bank of America Certificate of Achievement — Art

SCHOLARSHIP ALTAIR California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Governor’s Scholars Award University of Evansville Trustee Scholarship

Larwood, Janet

on Blue Oak Lane

Sullivan, Zoe

Moffitt, Jeffrey

Nolting, Kristen

CVHS Department Award — English California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Bank of America Certificate of Achievement – Communication Governor’s Scholars Award

tive-style Ho u c e me in Oakhurst Ex

One year lease preferred; shorter term negotiable.

President’s Education Award

Bank of America Certificate of Achievement—Home Economics Brigham Young University – Academic Scholarship

Langford, Kristen

President’s Education Award Governor’s Scholars Award

Snow, Courtney

Neufeld, Derek

Kiyama, Lindsay

Silvester, Neal

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Asian Pacific Islander American Scholarship

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Skandalaris, Sharon

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Bank of America Certificate of Achievement — Business Mt. Diablo Junior Volunteer Award

Nelson, Ashley

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award Governor’s Scholars Award

Hilmer, Karith

Miry, Sayed

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award

President’s Education Award Governor’s Scholars Award

CVHS Department Award — Home Economics California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

Moser, William

Khan, Zaheedah

Leininger, Lindsay

Hiller, Jessica

Mendoza, Maria

CVHS Alumni Enemark Art Scholarship

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Bank of America Plaque of Achievement – Science/Math Governor’s Scholars Award Clayton Business & Community Assoc. Scholarship

Highsmith, Justine

Governor’s Scholars Award

Sharif, Ghazal

Moon, Jiyoung

Keenan, Michael

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer President’s Education Award

Hill, Chloe

Clayton Business & Community Assoc. Scholarship Cabrillo Club of California Scholarship

Clayton Business & Community Assoc. Scholarship San Francisco Conservatory of Music Scholarship

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer

California Scholarship Federation Sealbearer Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen

CVHS Department Award – Art Maryland Institute College of Art Scholarship

Malabuyo, Mary Jo

no job too small

Patty Flannery Realtor

Clayton Resident since 1979

serving all your

Real Estate needs Call me

voicemail: 925.975.5255 residence: 925.672.0541 email: granyflany@hotmail.com

Page B8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., JUNE 20 FOR THE JULY 1 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Boyd, President at 672-1163. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord.

ONGOING Art at the YMCA @ Clayton Community Gym Art program starts at the YMCA - sculpture, painting, drawing for beginners, advanced drawing.and Children's books, writing illustrating and publishing. For information contact instructor Seth Ahonen at 889-1612 or 889-1600. Clayton Community Gym, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton.

JUNE 23, 30, JULY 7, 14 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker.www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.

MAY AND JUNE Blue Star Mom Care Package Drop Off @ USS Hornet During the months of May and June get free admission to the Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet Museum in Alameda when you bring a donation for the troops. Needed items include: AT&T Phone cards, razors, baby powder, chapstick, heavy socks and other items. See website for more information on needed items, www.bluestarmoms.org.

JUNE 30 CBCA (Clayton Business & Community Association) Meeting @ Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting, Oakhurst Country Club, last non-holiday Thursday of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon prior, 672-2272. John Rubiales, President. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.

ONGOING THROUGH SUMMER Summer Programs from Civic Arts Education (CAE) in Walnut Creek CAE offers a wide variety of classes for adults and children. Why not sign up for a music, dance, theater, jewelry or art class for you or your children? It's the perfect time to try something new or brush up on old skills. Theme birthday parties available too. Classes are offered in two Walnut Creek locations: the Shadelands campus at 111 N. Wiget Lane (at Ygnacio Valley) and Civic Park at 1313 Civic Drive. For information on any of CAE's classes, call (925) 943-5846 or go on-line to www.arts-ed.org. JUNE 11 - AUGUST 20 Reading Program @ Clayton Community Library Dragons Dreams and Daring Deeds. Read and win exciting prizes. See librarian for details. 673-0659, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. ONGOING - JUNE 30 Patty Cakes and Picture Book Time @ Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. Patty Cakes Story Time is for birth to three years, held on Tuesdays 11 a.m. Picture Book Time for three to five years, held on thursdays. No registration required. Clayton Community Library, 673-0659, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. JUNE 14, 21 28 Reading Round Table @ Clayton Community Library 3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Book discussion group for independent readers in third fifth grades. Discussion, snack and take-home activity. 673-0659, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. JUNE 15 Dragon Drama dramatics workshop @ Clayton Community Library 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. For children K - third grade. Taught by local drama teacher and author Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff. Class size is limited. Registration is required. 673-0659, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. JUNE 18 Clayton K-9 Coalition Work Party @ Clayton Dog Park 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. Bring your canine friends and a rake and/or shovel and help spruce up the dog park by pulling weeds and spreading chips. Water and soft drinks will be provided. Clayton Dog Park, Marsh Creek Road and Regency Drive. Call Linda Pinder for more information, 672-7815. JUNE 20 - JULY 1 Act Now! Theatre Company Children’s Theatre Summer Camp for Kids @ Mount Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. This program is just the ticket for parents who want to broaden their child’s horizon this summer by introducing them to live theater in a safe, nurturing and fun environment. Working in small groups children will learn skills such as pantomime, and improvisation while building self-confidence and self-esteem. Dennis Klein, a California credentialed teacher with over 30 years experience teaching drama to children heads up the program. $180 per week includes snack and DVD of your child’s performance at the end of the session. Contact Steve Murphree, Artistic Director for Act Now! theatre group at 212-2810 JUNE 23 - 26 Studio Art Sale at Civic Arts Education The sales begins with a gala reception June 23 from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m., and continues June 24, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., June 25, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., June 26, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. This is an opportunity to purchase art individually handcrafted by instructors and students of CAE and the Clay Arts Guild, all at affordable prices. Pictured is work by artist/instructor Gary Bergren.

Shoppers can choose from one-of-a-kind jewelry, creative ceramic pieces, drawings, paintings, photography, mixed media, decorative gourds, glass works, and much, much more. Civic Arts Education, 111 N. Wiget Lane (at Ygnacio Valley Road.) and 1313 Civic Drive (at Civic Park) in Walnut Creek.. JUNE 27 - JULY 15 Center for Adaptive Learning (CAL) Art Show @ Civic Arts, Shadelands Gallery hours Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. CAL is holding an art show of its clients’ artwork. CAL is a program for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities. CAL client artwork and jewelry on exhibition will be for sale to support the Center’s art department. All donations will go toward the purchase of art supplies and equipment needed to further art instruction at CAL. A closing reception will be held July 14 at 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. All are welcome. For more information contact the Center for Adaptive Learning art department at 827-3863 x27, or swijts@centerforadaptivelearning.org. Civic Arts Shadelands, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. JULY 7 Mrs. L’s Crafts @ Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Fun for children three to five years. Registration required. 673-0659, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, CA 94517. JULY 8 - JULY 30 Act Now! production of Accomplice @ Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts 8:15 p.m. Fri. and Sat., and Sun. at 2:15 p.m. More than a mystery, Accomplice is a rollercoaster ride filled with twists and turns, leaving the audience breathless with laughter one minute and gasping in shock the next. Just when you think you know who did it there is another twist of character or plot that leaves your breathlessly awaiting what will happen next. Tickets are $25 general admission, $22 for seniors, and $12.50 for youth and can be purchased through Center Tickets at 943-SHOW. Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS JUNE 21, 28, JULY 5, 12 Kiwanis Club of Walnut Creek 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Meetings every Tues. All are invited to check us out and be our guest for lunch. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust St., Walnut Creek. for more information call Sam Totah, 941-1536. JUNE 22, JULY 13, 20, 27 Concord Soroptimist Meeting Women at their best working to help other women. Business, professional people or people interested in providing service to the community are invited to luncheon meetings at Marie Calender’s the second and fourth Wednesday of each month and at The Left Bank the third Wednesday of the month. Call Gloria Utley at 672-0508, email at gloutley@aol.com. or Jo Harlow, 827-9676. for information. JUNE 28, JULY 12, 26 Clayton Valley Woman’s Club @ Holy Cross Lutheran Church 9:30 a.m. Regular monthly meets held the second and fourth Tues. of the month. Anyone interested in joining the woman’s club please contact Shirley

JUNE 23, 30, JULY 7, 14 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau 10 a.m., 5 & 6:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. 800/326-8450 x 2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. JULY 20 Blue Star Mom Meeting 6:30 p.m. Small group Blue Star Mom meetings held the third Wednesday of each month. Blue Star Moms is a support and service group for those serving in all branches of the Armed Forces. 1792 Elmhurst Lane, Concord. Call 676-3654 for information.

BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT JUNE 21, 28, JULY 5, 12, 19 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. JUNE 28, JULY 12, 26 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. JUNE 21, JULY 5, 19 Clayton City Council Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Open to the public. Agendas posted at the following locations: City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, Ohm's Bulletin Board, 1028 Diablo St., Clayton, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton. JULY 14 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail, Clayton.

4th of July Parade News! Are you a local non-profit group looking to raise a some extra money? The Clayton 4th of July Parade has an opportunity for you! We are looking for groups to sell water and sodas during the event and keep the profits. Please contact Deborah Meylan at 673-1548 with questions or for an application. Applications must be in by June 25

The Community Calendar is sponsored by

T H E VA N F L E E T- B R O N S O N T E A M Personal Service Makes The Difference

1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Suite D, Clayton 94517; Phone (925) 672-4333 www.CallTheVanFleetTeam We are proud to support the Children's Miracle Network, an alliance of premier hospitals in North America. The Children's Miracle Network treats over 17 million children each year for cancer, pediatric AIDS, muscular dystrophy, heart disease, leukemia, sickle cell anemia, asthma and accident trauma.

IN SUPPORT OF THIS COMPASSIONATE CAUSE, THE VAN FLEET-BRONSON TEAM WILL MAKE A DONATION on behalf of our client for EVERY TRANSACTION CLOSED BY OUR OFFICE.

June 17, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B9

Some tips for finding a lost pet Cats can dash out of a door or dogs can bolt through a gate very quickly, especially if you have your hands full. Start searching for your runaway pet immediately. Don’t wait to see if your pet will return on her own. When looking for your dog, bring along a leash and treats. Some dogs, especially the herding breeds such as Border Collies or Australian Cattle Dogs, or herding breed mixes, are likely to run a circular perimeter of the neighborhood. Most dogs will not run hard in a straight line away from your home unless they are sight hounds, such as Afghans or

Salukis, or sight hound mixes, lured by something they see in the distance. Concentrate on a five- or six-square-block area. Frightened dogs may be hiding or locked in someone’s yard or garage, so listen for revealing sounds. When looking for your cat, bring along a cat carrier. Cats are extremely territorial, and your cat’s territory is defined by the location of other neighborhood cats. If you know where outdoor cats live in your neighborhood, you can focus your search for your cat in areas other cats do not usually frequent. When you see your dog or

cat, avoid the urge to chase him. You do not want to inadvertently send him into the street and harm’s way. The animal may not be as frightened as you and may be viewing it as a grand adventure. Many dogs enjoy the game of chase, and you probably can’t outrun a dog or a cat. Offer your pet a special treat or, for dogs, open the car door and offer to take him for a ride. If you haven’t located your pet after an hour or two of searching, call the shelters and veterinarians in your area and give them a complete description of your missing pet. You can make color posters

at a copy center. Use a photo of the pet and add a description, area where the animal was lost, and offer a financial reward for your pet’s safe return. Put posters up in your neighborhood and check door-to-door. Within 24 hours, visit all of the local public shelters to look for your lost friend. The shelters in our county that have public funding to pick up and hold stray animals are Antioch Animal Services and Contra Costa County Animal Services, which has two locations – Martinez and Pinole. Leave a copy of your poster at each shelter and follow up with visits every four calendar

JULIE BOND

PAWS

AND

CLAWS

days. In California, public shelters are required to hold strays dogs and cats for four business days, not including the day of impoundment. The best safeguard for finding a lost pet is having your best friend microchipped for permanent identification and to always

keep an identification tag on the pet’s collar. Introduce all the members of your family, including your furry members, to your neighbors. Neighbors who recognize and know everyone in your household by name are a great safety precaution for the entire family. Having a furry family member get lost is frightening. Don’t give up too soon. He could be safely tucked away in the home of a Good Samaritan who is calling the shelters trying to get your best friend back home safely.

Julie Bond is an animal behaviorist. She can be reached through Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital, 672-1100 or you can e-mail her at K9Freud@aol.com.

Montana is ARF’s Like us, some birds behave strangely Adoption Star Montana, a 1year-old Labrador Retriever mix, will quickly race into your heart. This talented young dog will be a whiz in dog sports such as agility. He will also become your favorite running partner. Friendly Montana is a wonderful companion for an active family. He is recommended for children ages 12 and above. Bring everyone MONTANA who will live with Montana – including any canine family members – to meet him at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 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 Web site, www.art.net, or call (925) 2561ARF.

Welcome to For the Birds, a sample of backyard birding around Clayton. First I would like to say thank you to everyone who attended the Clayton Pioneer Birthday Bash to meet the writers. It was a pleasure for

WHITE-TAILED KITE

ES N ’ T STI N O D E N K I M If yours does, get some WONDER CAT LITTER at CONCORD FEED IT'S NATURAL AND COMES WITH A

MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE: NO SMELL; NO DUST!

Need a New LITTER BOX?

Wonder C at L itter 25 POUND BAGS, 21 POUND BOXES, & 14 POUND JUGS, ALL

SAVE

30% OFF

20%

ON ANY SIZE

with coupon, exp. 7/01/05

Concord 5288 Clayton Rd. 925.887.9200

Pleasant Hill 228 Hookston Rd. 925.940.1200

Pet & Livestock Supplies

Mon. - Fri: 8am-6:30pm

me to meet the readers. If you missed it, sorry, you’ll have to wait until next year. As the green of spring withers into summer, we watch the young fledglings come out of their nests, take to the sky, and

Novato 7546 Redwood Blvd. 415.599.3500

Sat. /Sun. 9am-5pm

learn to fly. It’s been fun this past week watching the young birds around town. The young House Finches and House Sparrows are at the feeders being taught by patient parents how to get the seed themselves. It gave me a special thrill as I watched a parade of little quail follow Mom and Dad to their favorite watering hole. The young Red Tail Hawks I have been watching all Spring are out of the nest, although they can be found hanging out in the trees near their deserted nest, while the elder Red Tails keep a watchful eye from their perch in another tree nearby. The hawks will be around for a few more weeks while the young are

taught to hunt and feed themselves. Then the parents will take the youngsters on a relocating trip, drop them off, and return in the fall to repeat the process again next year. Bird habits are interesting when we take the time to pay attention. I am prone to believe that birds, as well as humans and other beasts, can be afflicted with behavior disorders. I am fairly certain that a particular California Towhee has an O b s e s s i v e Compulsive Disorder. It seems to be enamored with the side mirrors of our cars. I’m not sure if this little guy is in love or hate as it pecks at the reflection in the mirrors, day after day. My husband has resorted to folding in the mirrors on his car, which hasn’t deterred the Towhee, it just moves over to another car. I have heard of birds that will collect dead bugs from car grills and windshields, which makes sense. This mirror pecking thing has me stumped, and I can’t seem to find any information on the subject. Does any one else out there in reader land have birds pecking at their car mirrors? I recently went for a hike out at Mitchell Canyon Park to do a little bird watching. We are so very blessed to have Mt. Diablo in our backyard, as this area is home to an amazing variety of our feathered friends. I was fortunate to meet up with a

Professional pet grooming salon for dogs and cats Self-service pet wash available

Tues - Sat, 8-5 Experienced staff with more than 20 years of service

est. 1978

Adjacent to Hollywood Video

925-6 676-9 9355

4375 Clayton Rd. Unit K Concord owner & Clayton resident Grace Carson & her dog, Blue

CATHIE

GERNHARDT

FOR THE BIRDS birding group who had the following list of 32 sightings for the day: Acorn Woodpecker, Allen’s Hummingbird, American Crow, Anna’s Hummingbird, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Bewick’s Wren, Black-headed Grosbeak, Bushtit, California Quail, California Towhee, Chestnutbacked Chickadee, Dark-eyed Junco, European Starling, Golden Eagle, House Finch, Lazuli Bunting, Lesser Goldfinch, Nuttall’s Woodpecker, Oak Titmouse, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Orangecrowned Warbler, Red-tailed Hawk, Spotted Towhee, Steller’s Jay, Warbling Vireo, Western Bluebird, Western Kingbird, Western Scrub-Jay, Western Tanager, White-breasted Nuthatch, Wrentit and the Yellow-rumped Warbler. I wasn’t able to see all of these birds on my hike but I did see one that they missed, a White Tailed Kite. I urge you to take advantage of the birding opportunities in our area, and for fun see how many different birds can you identify in one day? The best way to learn the birds is to identify one on your own. When you spot a bird that you do not know, focus on at least one remarkable characteristic along with the size and color. It might have a red head, a long beak, pink feet, red eyes, or an eye ring. As soon as you have the opportunity, look it up in a field guide. You may surprise yourself to find out it’s not that hard to do, and then you too will be hooked on birding. Until next time, Happy Bird Day. Cathie Gernhardt has lived in Clayton for the past 38 years. Bird watching is one of her greatest joys. She has taken classes at Wild Birds Unlimited and has frequently participated in local bird walks. You can email her at Cathie@claytonpioneer.com.

Page B10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

June 17, 2005

Hike of the Week

Lime Ridge

Crystl Ranch/Lime Ridge/Manzanita Loop KEVIN PARKER

HIKER’S HAVEN Every two weeks, I sit down at my kitchen table and carefully thumb through my collection of

would allow me to see the less visited areas of Lime Ridge. Crystl Ranch Trail begins off Oak Knoll, which is at the top of the Montecito Neighborhood. You will actually drive past the main trailhead adjacent to Ygnacio Valley Road and weave through the develop-

trail itself was less than desirable. Overgrown foliage, lack of shade, and two or three ascents that seemed like never ending uphill battles made the hot day seem even hotter. So like all great adventures, I made a quick change and headed northwest on Lime Ridge

Fields of gold on Lime Ridge trail signal the onset of summer.

trail maps to see where my next hiking adventure will take place. It seems to be a bit more challenging as I log more hikes writing this column every few weeks. I attempt to write up a new trail, park, or open space area, while staying in this geographical area, but this is not as easy as you might think. This hike took me back to one of my favorite niches of open space, Lime Ridge. I have hiked and biked all over this expanse of park, but I wanted to find a new trailhead that

ment before reaching the trailhead gate. This trail begins as a paved access road and then immediately transforms into a dirt fire-road. For much of the first few miles, you wind up, over and around the hillsides directly above Crystl Ranch Drive. Endless hills in every direction paved in shades of gold are a reminder that summer is almost here (officially at least). Initially my goal was to take Crystl Ranch Trail to the top of the park, but I must admit the

Trail back towards the heart of the park. Traveling along the ridge allowed me to enjoy the

mid afternoon gusts that offered welcome refreshment. As wide open grassland gave way to dense vegetation, I jumped onto a single-track trail also named Lime Ridge Trail. This trail is a bit of a grind, but eventually puts you atop the park near the transmission tower. You can see Contra Costa County sprawling in every direction from this vantage point. I made my final and gradual descent on Manzanita Trail, picked up Crystl Ranch Trail and ended up back at the trailhead. My advice for Lime Ridge Open Space is to grab a map and link up your own series of trails, the possibilities are endless! I would also like to extend a healthy round of applause to the “Moms” who summited Mt. Diablo on behalf of Hiker’s Haven. Maybe I can join you all one day for a hike? Cheers and great job ladies! Here Ye, Here Ye: I am always looking for great new hikes to write up in this column. If you have any ideas/suggestions, please email me! hikershaven@comcast.net

photos by Kevin Parker

Shade along Crystl Ranch trail.

Trailhead: Montecito Neighborhood Trailhead z Staging Area: Take Ygnacio Valley Road, left on Montecito Drive, right on S. Montecito Drive, right on Oak Knoll, follow to end. z Distance: 4.2 miles z Difficulty: Moderate z Duration: 2.0 hours

When it comes to buying or selling a home in the East Bay Area, trust Lynne French to connect you with your dreams with her distinctive brand of real estate service.

6200-E Center St. 1801 N. California Blvd.

Clayton, CA 94517 Walnut Creek, CA 94596

(925) 672-8787 www.LynneFrench.com Lynne@LynneFrench.com

ynne French is making connections everyday as one of the East Bay Area’s leading real estate professionals. Connections with her clients and their families on a truly personal level. Connections within her industry to give her clients the most comprehensive home buying and selling services. Connections between her clients and their unique dreams. Lynne’s approach is straightforward. By listening to you and your family

throughout the process and focusing all of her energy on your specific goals, she goes above and beyond to help you Discover the Possibilities and make the most of your unique opportunities. Give Lynne French and her team a call or visit her Web site today and discover for yourself what the East Bay Area’s “French Connection” is all about—personalized service, expert guidance and unsurpassed dedication to your needs.