MAR 09 Clayton Pioneer 2007

Page 1

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IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

March 9, 2007

925.672.0500

These kids stay home for school Homeschool families learn and play together TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

BILL WALCUTT

MAYOR’S CORNER Turf has some benefits, but not good fit for park I have received several emails regarding the prospect of installing synthetic grass in the downtown park. There are people on both sides of this issue. However, many people are saying: “What were you thinking?” and “How could you even consider installing fake grass in our downtown park?” Let me try to explain. All right, all right, you are probably conjuring up visions of a one-acre peewee putting green. I understand where you are coming from, because my initial reaction was about the same. I thought of a bright green Astro-Turf doormat in front of the new gazebo with the word “Welcome” on it. Whenever I have an issue that may be controversial, I use my wife Pam as a sounding board. She is always very generous with her opinion, especially if she thinks I am about to do something stupid. After giving this some thought, I decided to ask Pam her opinion of synthetic grass in the downtown park. When she stopped staring at me, she said: “Are you serious?” Being very astute, I was able to translate that into: “This is not a good idea.”

See Mayor, page A7

What’s Inside See our big, new Home Improvement Resource Guide in Section B

Around Town . . . . . . . . . . .A2 Letters to the Editor . . . . . .A4 Readers Forum . . . . . . . . . . .A4 Classified Ads . . . . . . . . . . . .A5 Directory of Advertisers . . .A5 Financial Sense . . . . . . . . . . .A6 Upcoming Events . . . . . . . .A6 From the Chief . . . . . . . . . . .A7 So, Anyway . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A8 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A9 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . .A10 For the Books . . . . . . . . . . .A11 Paws and Claws . . . . . . . . .A13 School News . . . . . . . . . . . .A14 Church News . . . . . . . . . . .A14 Food For Thought . . . . . . .A15 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A16 Community Calendar . . . . .B18 At the Movies . . . . . . . . . . .A19 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . .A20 Hiker’s Haven . . . . . . . . . . .A21

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

Homeschooling takes first priority for the Van Liew family. From left, Lynnsae, Becky with Joshua, Peter, Justin and Curtis spend mornings at the kitchen table classroom before heading out to tennis and music lessons.

City antes up for EBRSC radio plan Two-county radio system another step in Clayton’s disaster readiness plan TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

What if a major earthquake, say an 8-pointer, hit the Bay Area today? What if a plane crashed tomorrow on Clayton Road, starting fires, causing major injuries and requiring evacuations? Would we be ready? Could the city handle the emergency medical, rescue and evacuation requirements of the immediate aftermath?

These are not far-fetched scenarios, says Clayton Police Chief Dan Lawrence, “and we are getting ready.” To be ready, the city needs reliable and fast communication equipment and plenty of people trained to respond. REGIONAL COMMUNICATION The fastest and most reliable way to communicate is by radio. Cell phones won’t do it, Lawrence says. “We may need to get information to 15 different people at once; we can’t be saying the same thing 15 times. With radios, if everyone is on the same frequency, we only have to say something once.” Right now, agencies in Contra Costa and Alameda counties operate on several different fre-

quencies. When there is a major event, like the recent pipeline explosion in Walnut Creek, response times can be impacted by slow communication. The two counties have launched a project designed to get all agencies in both counties on the same radio frequency — the East Bay Regional Communications System (EBRSC) — and has asked the City Council for a letter of Clayton’s intent to participate. At its March 6 meeting, the City Council voted to sign on to the project and put up a “good faith” deposit of $3,500. Costs are estimated between $40 million and $60 million for the project infrastructure, with at least $13 million funded by federal Homeland Security grants.

Clayton’s share of the total will depend on the number of participating agencies, financing costs and how much of the project is ultimately funded by grants. Worst case, if no further grant money is forthcoming, the city’s share of the project could run between $108,000 and $162,000, financed over 10 to 15 years, says City Manager Gary Napper. Additionally, there will be the cost of the radios and an annual service fee estimated between $13,000 and $25,000. CLAYTON COMMAND CENTER A local disaster presents its own set of communication See Emergency, page A12

It might be round or square, maple or cherry. It’s usually near or in the kitchen and commonly used for eating meals. Most people would call this a kitchen table. On some kitchen tables, however, napkins and forks give way to books and charts, worksheets, calculators, maps and sometimes a laptop. And what’s dished up here has more to do with polynomials and Russian history than with spaghetti and meatballs. For some Clayton families, the kitchen table is their classroom. The dog snoozes in the corner and the kids call their teacher “Mom.” These families have, for a variety of reasons, opted out of the public school system, choosing instead to guide and coach their own children through the three Rs and beyond. Why do some parents, most with no formal training or experience as a teacher, go down this road less traveled? The reasons are as varied as the people who choose. SEARCHING FOR SELF-ESTEEM Elizabeth Williams was frustrated with the lack of attention her son Matthew, 8, was getting from an overburdened teacher. “Matthew was having a tough time in school with the big classes,” says his mother. “He was convinced he couldn’t draw or read or do anything.” So, she took him out of public school midway through last year. “By the end of the year, it was like night and day. The difference in his self-esteem was dramatic.” This year Matthew’s 10-yearold sister, Victoria, and 5-yearold brother, Andrew, joined him at the kitchen table. Others choose homeschooling for religious reasons. For Becky and Kris Van Liew, members of the Word of God Church, homeschooling their five children has always been See Homeschool, page A3

Historical Society tour takes a walk into Clayton’s past MARY SPRYER Special to the Pioneer

While researching Clayton’s population for the sesquicentennial exhibit at the Clayton Museum, the curators realized that 60 percent of Clayton’s residents has moved here since the 1980s. Although our citizens have seen incredible changes in the town since then, many still don’t know about Clayton’s rich history. In honor of Clayton’s sesquicentennial, the 150th anniversary of when Joel Clayton platted the town, museum volunteers will be conducting monthly downtown walking

tours. Residents will see where the stagecoach stopped, where the jail stood and why the site of the new city park is often referred to as “The Grove.” The tours will begin in front of the museum, at 6101 Main St., at 10 a.m. the fourth Saturday of the month. They will run from March through September, rain or shine. Clayton Historical Society members, Tery McCade and Dick Ellis will alternate leading the tours. The walk extends for about three-fourths of a mile and ends at about 11:30 a.m., at which time tour-goers can visit

the museum. Participants should wear comfortable shoes. The Clayton Historical Society has had a Self-Guided Walking Tour for many years. People have been able to take a tour of the downtown at their own pace, using a printed handout distributed by the society. However, the only regular guided walking tours offered were to the local third-grade classes during their field trips to the museum. The first guided walking tour is Saturday, March 24. For more information, call the museum at 672-0240.

Photo courtesy of Clayton Historical Society

Tery McCade talks to a tour group as they stand in front of what was once a baseball field on Main Street.


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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 9, 2007

Around Town Mardi Gras 2007 at Chief joins local businesses in supporting muscular dystrophy Diablo View Middle School The French IA students at Diablo View Middle School celebrated Mardi Gras, which means “Fat Tuesday,” with traditional festivities of the season on Feb. 20. The activities began when Mrs. Katie Comeaux, the school librarian and a native of New Orleans, tossed bead necklaces to the students as they waved

see students wearing the bead necklaces they caught as they moved on to their classes. Mardi Gras was celebrated in Paris during the Middle Ages. Ancient Roman spring rituals influenced the masked celebrations and merriment that characterize the festivities of Mardi Gras today. They mark the period leading to the Christian sea-

Clayton Police Chief Dan Lawrence served as a “judge” for last week’s Muscular Dystrophy Association’s “Behind Bars for Good” at Mimi’s Restaurant in Concord. The event raised money for the East Bay chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Participants were recruited from the Concord and Clayton business communities. The “jailbirds” included representatives from Shop and Go, Postal Annex and the Clayton YMCA. On the day of the event, the jailbirds were “arrested” for having a “big heart” and taken to a mock jail at Mimi’s. The jailbirds were booked and had their mug shots taken. They then could plead for last-minute donations. When

they finally made their “bail,” they turned the money in to the judge who released them for “good behavior.” Along with Clayton’s chief,

officers from the Concord Police Department and the Highway Patrol participated. “I think having a few of us there in uniform kind of gave the whole thing a

CHRIS RODRIQUEZ AND BILL KANE of Crystal Blue Carriage beg for bail and Clayton Police Chief Dan Lawrence holds the key to freedom at last week’s MDA fundraiser.

realism,” said Lawrence. “I’m really glad I did it, and I’m ready to do it again next year.” The event raised $24,000, according to Loal Isaacs of MDA. Every $600 sends one of “Jerry’s kids” to summer camp in the Santa Cruz Mountains. MDA works to help families who live with one of the 43 different neuromuscular diseases, including ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). MDA funds worldwide research, clinics at California Pacific Medical Center and UCSF in San Francisco, runs support groups, and provides wheelchairs, leg braces and communication devices to families in Northern California living with neuromuscular diseases. For more information, visit www.mda.org.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow When a cold winter storm dropped nearly four inches of snow on Mt. Diablo last week, it was too much for Clayton shutterbugs, John Manzeck and Paul Schnurr to resist. Cameras in hand, they set out to capture the perfect shot. Ben Alexander, Adam Agronow and Joe Shamblin made the winning masks in the “Most Humorous” category.

their hands high and cried “Throw me something, Mister.” In the annual Parade of Masks, students displayed their handiwork in the many colorful and sparkling creations, competing for such honors in such categories as “most beautiful” and “most humorous.” Following the parade and judging, participants cut the traditional King’s Cake which was also made by students. If you get the hidden bean you are supposed to give the next party. Throughout the day you could

son of Lent which begins the day after Fat Tuesday on Ash Wednesday. According to the Christian tradition, Lent is a time of penance during the 46 days leading up to Easter Sunday. Mardi Gras came to America in 1699 with a French explorer named Iberville who set up camp on the west bank of the Mississippi River 60 miles downriver from what is now New Orleans. New Orleans has become the center of the most well known parades and balls of the season in this country.

Photo by John Manzeck

D

STE

LI UST

Photo by Paul Schnurr

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March 9, 2007

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A3

Around Town

Obituary

Elizabeth Brownell

Clayton resident lends her voice to Festival Opera Walnut Creek’s Festival Opera 2007 season will feature the West Coast premiere of “Our Town” by noted American composer Ned Rorem, and opera favorite “Carmen,” by Georges Bizet. Clayton resident Jennifer Kwock-Lau will perform in the chorus of both productions. Jennifer joined Festival Opera in 2005 and has previously appeared in “Un ballo in Maschera,” “Candide” and “Tosca.” A 2002 graduate of UCLA with a major in economics and a minor in music history, Jennifer sang in several university productions and was the principal vocalist at her commencement. It wasn’t until her junior year in high school that she began singing in earnest. “I never paid much attention to my voice before that,” she says with a

laugh. “I was always playing volleyball.” Volleyball still often takes center stage with Jennifer. In between rehearsals, she organized a Festival Opera volleyball team that recently competed in a tournament in Walnut Creek. Jennifer has opened her own financial planning practice in Concord, and with the flexibility of self-employment, she can be available for the daytime rehearsals required for principal roles. Given the opportunity, she would love to sing “Madam Butterfly.” Festival Opera’s 2007 season opens on July 7 with “Carmen.” Written in 1875 and filled with familiar melodies, the opera follows the tumultuous story of the alluring Spanish gypsy, Carmen, as she first inspires the passion of the young soldier, Don José, and then provokes

Natalie Tarola, Festival Opera

JENNIFER KWOCK-LAU

his jealous rage by transferring her favors to the brash toreador, Escamillo. Carmen will be sung in French with English supertitles. The West Coast premiere of

Rorem’s “Our Town” opens Aug. 11. Based on the quintessential American drama by Thornton Wilder, “Our Town” provides a snapshot of turn-ofthe-century, small-town life. When the love between a boy and his girl-next-door takes a tragic turn, the story speaks to the value of treasuring the time we are given with those we love. The play’s remarkable ability to emotionally connect the audience to each character has been preserved in an intimate, accessible chamber opera. “Our Town” will be sung in English. Festival Opera is the third largest opera company in the Bay Area. Founded in 1991, it is considered a showcase for emerging American talent. For more information about the company and to order tickets, visit www.festivalopera.com.

Diablo Symphony will be wearin’ the green on St. Patrick’s Day

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer LAURIE CARLSON and Lynnsae Van Liew in Laurie’s Clayton studio.

St. Patrick’s Day is just a wee bit away and the Diablo Symphony Orchestra is offering a celebratory alternative to the noisy pub. On March 17, the Symphony will mark the day with a festive concert featuring a young violinist, some Irish dancing and symphonic works from the Fair Isles. The concert begins at 2 p.m. at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. Violin teacher and Clayton resident Laurie Carlson plays second principal violin with the Symphony and describes the concert as being “more family friendly” than some of the others.

The concert will feature 21 year old award winning violinist Andrew Sords who will play “Scottish Fantasy for Violin and Orchestra,” by Max Bruch. The McGrath Irish Dance Family will dance to “Lord of the Dance,” by Sydney Carter. The selection is set to the tune of “Simple Gifts,” an American Shaker song featured in Aaron Copland’s ballet “Appalachian Spring.” The Diablo Symphony, now in its 44th season, is the oldest symphony in Contra Costa County. Carlson, who has been with the orchestra for 19 years, attributes their longevity to the dedication

Elizabeth “Betty” Brownell, a resident of Diamond Terrace in Clayton, passed away at Kaiser Hospital in Walnut Creek on February 17. Betty lived for many years in A l b a n y , California where she raised most of her family. When the family decided to move out to the suburbs in Concord, she and George, her husband of over 50 years, soon followed. In 2003 after George’s death, Betty moved to Diamond Terrace. Betty loved being with her family more than anything. Watching them open Christmas presents, observing them at every family function of the director, Joyce Johnson Hamilton, and the musicians— many of whom, like Carlson, have been with the orchestra for many years. Carlson lives in Clayton Greens where she has her violin studio. For more information on the Diablo Symphony Orchestra, or for ticket information, call the Lesher Center for the Performing Arts, (925) 943-SHOW (7469) or go online to www.leshercenter.org. The Lesher Center is located at 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek.

and participating in family discussions were her greatest joys, and she was always ready to offer her “two cents” on what she thought. Betty is survived by four children, 10 g randchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Surviving family members that live in the Clayton/ Concord area are sons Bob and Bill Brownell and daughter Betty Roberts; daughterin-law Sue Brownell; grandchildren Jerry Roberts, Audrene Roberts, Rob Brownell and Stacey Brownell, and great granddaughter Amber Roberts. A funeral service was held at St. Bonaventure’s Catholic Church on February 22.

What’s happening Around Town We want to know what’s happening in your neighborhoods. Send your news of births, engagements weddings, anniversaries, special recognitions, etc. to info@claytonpioneer.com.

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Page A4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Letters to the editor Dear Editor (I’m writing regarding) the article from the Contra Costa Times about the City Council looking into putting fake grass in our park. I, for one would not be happy. This is something they should have disclosed to the voters prior to the November measure we all voted on. John Smith Dear Editor In the last issue of the Pioneer there was an article on the front page about the downtown park. There was a reference to “all weather turf ” and another about a “life size bronze sculpture.” I understand that “all weather turf ” manufacturing has come a long way since what we know as “astroturf ” was invented. However, it seems to me that the restrictions required for all weather turf are prohibitive for general public enjoyment.

From what I have gleaned from the Internet, only athletic shoes can be worn on it, chewing gum is prohibited, only plastic containers are allowed on it (no aluminum or glass) and animals are not permitted. Put on your tennis shoes and come to the park with your plastic bottle of water...but leave the dog home! When the residents voted in favor of a tax to maintain the park, I think they envisioned all weather turf all right—grass! Your article stated that the City Council will vote on the acquisition of a “life size bronze sculpture” at its March 20 meeting. “Life size” implies that it is of a living thing. I would like to know whom or what will be (potentially) memorialized in bronze. I’m afraid that if the synthetic all weather turf is installed then the upcoming landscape district tax will be soundly voted down by our citizens.

Upcoming Events GUIDED DOWNTOWN WALKING TOUR- MAR. 24 Would you like to see where the stagecoach stopped and where the first jail stood in Clayton? Then don’t miss the first walking tour of downtown Clayton on Saturday, Mar. 24. The tour is in honor of Clayton’s sesquicentennial and is hosted by the Clayton Historical Society. Volunteers ask that everyone meet at the museum at 10 a.m. rain or shine. The tour will end at 11:30 a.m. in front of the museum, 6101 Main Street. According to Museum Curator Mary Spryer, the tour is scheduled for the fourth Saturday of the month from March through September. Spryer encourages all to wear comfortable shoes for the three-quarter mile hike. For more information call the museum at 672-0240. CLAYTON ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT-APRIL 1 Rain or shine, bring the little ones to the Clayton YMCA field at the community gym on Sunday, April 1 from 12-2 p.m. for the Annual Clayton Easter Egg Hunt and BBQ sponsored by the YMCA, Clayton Community Church, City of Clayton and Alain Pinel Realtors. This free event is open to the community for kids age Pre K through third grade. There will be an egg hunt, BBQ, raffle, inflatable bounce house and other fun games. The Easter Bunny may be present for pictures too come out and see! For more information call the YMCA at 889-1600.

Residents will be fearful that our city’s landscaping will be replaced with plastic trees, bushes and flowers. Janet Easton Dear Editor, I have attended Clayton Community Church (CCC) for the past 9 months and have found it to be a church experience unlike any other I have had. I never leave a service without hearing a message that has real, concrete, practical application for how to live my life. And one message the church has preached loud and clear is that we (as individuals and as a church) need to be a blessing to the community of Clayton. But it isn’t just a nice message. The church walks the talk in so many ways — from summer family movie nights that benefit the entire community to an unparalleled care ministry that prepares meals for families in need, provides transportation for doctor visits, purchases Christmas gifts for children on behalf of their incarcerated parents, and so much more.

And now the church would like to build in downtown Clayton. From everything I know of CCC, this is not an act to be feared or reviled, but rather celebrated. CCC will bless the City of Clayton in countless ways. Foot traffic will certainly increase by leaps and bounds, which should please local restaurants and coffee shops. And not just on Sunday mornings. Church events throughout the week will ensure a steady stream of customers to local businesses. In addition, the church has a strong desire to plan the structure in order to overcome the city’s objections. This can mean any number of opportunities for Clayton, including use of the worship room for local theatre, a Christian bookstore, etc. My hope is that the City Council, the City Manager and the residents of Clayton not familiar with CCC will simply keep an open mind. I do not believe you will be disappointed. In fact, I believe you will be delighted with the results. Laura Seaholm, Clayton

March 9, 2007

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CLAYTON SPRING GARDEN TOUR-APRIL 28-29 This is the 15th annual spring garden tour sponsored by the Clayton Historical Society. This year’s tour will be held rain or shine on Saturday and Sunday, Apr. 28-29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring five gardens from the Clayton and Concord area. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at door. As in the past, the tour is self guided and begins at the Clayton Museum. No children under 12 are allowed. All proceeds from the tour benefit the museum. For more information call the museum 672-0240 or Sally Turner at 672-2117.

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CLAYTON LIBRARY USED BOOK SALE-APRIL 27-29 Book lovers pay heed. The annual used book sale sponsored by the Clayton Community Library Foundation is set for April 27 from 4-7 p.m. for Library Foundation members (you can join at the door for $10), April 28, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and April 29 from noon to 4 p.m. books are half price. From 2-4, $2 a bag. Most books sell for $1. The library is located at 6125 Clayton Road. For more information call 673-0659. CLAYTON CLEANS UP-APRIL 28 Make it a family day to help clean up Clayton on Saturday, April 28 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. BBQ lunch sponsored by the Clayton Pioneer. Everyone is asked to meet at City Hall to pick up bags and gloves. Call the city at 673-7300 for more information.

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March 9, 2007

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A5

Classified HELP WANTED

Part Time Notary. Notary wanted for shipping/mailbox store. 20 hours per week. $9.00/hour plus notary bonus. Call 497-1003. Community Services Commissioner. The City of Clayton is now accepting applications for Community Services Commissioner, term limit June 2006 through June 2008. Presently one Commissioner position and one Alternate Commissioner position are vacant. The Community Services Commission is an advisory body to the City Council, responsible for rec-

ommending user fees and policies for use of City facilities and sponsored community activities. The Commission meets the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. and helps coordinate community evens such as Fourth of July celebration, Clayton Cleans Up, and the New Years Eve celebration. The stipend is $75 per month (when a meeting is held).

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City of Clayton

Seeks a Clayton resident to serve on the County Connection Bus Service Citizens Advisory Committee The Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CAC) consists of members of the public from each of CCCTA’s jurisdictions who have an interest in and commitment to public transportation. The CAC acts as a community advocate for and liaison to transit users in their jurisdiction.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

The City of Clayton is looking for volunteers to work indoors on designated projects, general office help, and records management, including scanning of City documents. If you are interested in offering a few hours a week to help improve your community please contact the Volunteer Coordinator or apply online at www.ci.clayton.ca.us . Greeter. Clayton Historical Society Museum needs a greeter the second Sun. of each month from 2 - 4 p.m. Training is provided. If interested, call 672-0240, email claytonmuseum@sbcglobal.net or visit the museum between 2 and 4 p.m. on Wed. or Sun. The Clayton Community Library is seeking to fill the following volunteer positions: (All positions require a minimum age of 13 years and a 6-month commitment. Training will be provided). Scrapbook Historian - to document the many interesting activities the library provides to the community using newspaper clippings, event photos, flyers, etc., Will be put on display at the annual March library birthday celebration. Shelver - to shelve and sensitize books...must be detail oriented (Tues. between the hours of 10am-2pm, Wed. 3-5pm, Sat. 11 a.m.-1 pm & 2-4 pm). Tutor/Homework Helper - to work one-on-one with local students in our community. You choose the age range, subjects, remedial or light help, and days/times. Office Assistant - handle filing, word processing, create flyers, volunteer database input on Microsoft Access, assistance with meetings/programs. Contact: Arlene @ 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org.

How to Apply: Please submit a letter of interest in the position to the Mayor: In person: Clayton City Hall E-mail: ljackson@ci.clayton.ca.us 6000 Heritage Trail

Letters of interest are due by 5 p.m., Fri., Mar 23, 2007. The City Council’s screening committee will review applications, interview applicants, and recommend appointments to the City Council. Interviews will be held in early April 2007. Appointments are expected to be made at the first City Council meeting in April.

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PIONEER INFO HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD Classified rates per insertion: Non-profit: $12 for first 30 words, $.20 each additional word Individual/non-commercial: $18 for first 30 words, $.30 each additional word Commercial: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 each additional word To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 672-0500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Or, you may fax your typewritten ad and credit card information to (925) 672-6580 All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable.

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Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. 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 in a Word Document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.

P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580 TAMARA

AND

R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers

TAMARA S TEINER , Editor J ILL B EDECARRÉ , Assistant Editor and Display Advertising P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design D EANNA M ERRIGAN , Sports B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor and Feature Writer B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant

Directory of Advertisers Abbey Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Acupressure for Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .674-0767 Aircloud Wireless Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 Applause Staging and Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7701 Barta Chiropractic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4941 Bell, Glen - Keller Williams Real Estate . . . . . .510-333-4460 Bella Mia Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-7792 Benton, Mureleen - Ameriprise Financial . . . . . . . . .685-4523 Beautique Beauty Supply and Salon . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0405 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Butterfly Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4238 Calkins, Bill - Charlotte Clifford Realtors . . . . . . . . . .673-9164 Carol Keane and Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .937-5200 CCMT - Guys and Dolls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .943-7469 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 Clark, Robert C., D.O. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .969-7530 Clayton Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-3325 Clayton Fitness and Tanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2010 Clayton Home Inspection Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9405 Clayton Mind and Body Connections . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0686 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clayton Valley Medical Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6744 Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4848 Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Clayton Valley Villa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8401 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 ComUnity Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5363 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Dan and Dave's Cat Boarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0652 Denim & Lace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0345 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . . . .524-5100 Dromlewicz, Kim - Century 21 Hosking Assoc. . . . .682-4663 Eagles Peak Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .465-0435 Easton, Martin - Liberty Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8552 Easy Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3476 Eternal Life Lutheran Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0295 Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Windemere Real Estate . . . . . . . . .672-8787 Galaxy Nail Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-8668 Cha-aum Couture of Gesinee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-2070 Ginochio, Gina - Rath Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .827-9820 Help - U - Sell Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-4950 HomeEquity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9737 Hudak, Jim - Pianist and Composer . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-7293 Insite Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6460 Jazzercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7025 Joanna's Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8911 Kelly Marshall Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0327 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . . .939-7920 Lampo, Allen - John Hancock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-4438 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Lenox Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .284-0415 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Main St. Nail Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4975 Michael Dwyer & Sons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3980 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Miller, Tom - CPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .354-1385 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Moon, Steven Dr., Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . . . .280-8563 Music Together . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .946-2990 National Energy Rebate Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-957-4544 Nationwide Real Estate Investments . . . . . . . . . . . .777-1920 Nature's Creations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-624-2188 Neptune Society of Northern California . . . . . . . . . .944-5100 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Nickerson, Glenna - Diablo Funding Group . . . . . . .227-0100 Nuchols, Alicia - Premier Home Loans . . . . .691-5070 X 323 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 X 217 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Postal Annex + . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8900 Quantum Stress and Pain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .459-8595 R.E. Carpet Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .595-8623 Reed, Ruth - Remax Accord Real Estate . . . . . . . . .260-6731 Roberta Claire Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .625-1123 Robin's Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-6105 Schaefer's Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-6065 Seasonal Reflections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4425 Smith Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6461 Stone Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-2094 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 Swint, Brad - Team Funding Group . . . . . . . . .627-1400 X 12 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 The Royal Rooster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2025 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Van Fleet, Josie - Intero Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . . .672-2300 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .672-4433 Williams, Mike - Williams Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-5363 Wooden It Be Nice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5595


Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Community Church addresses downtown land purchase concerns An open letter to our friends in Concord and Clayton: You know us. Our kids go to school together. We live in your neighborhood. You see us at the grocery store and we support the same local businesses. You might run into us at the library or at the post office. You know us because you may have attended one of the events we have sponsored… the downtown memorial service after 9-11, or maybe it was one of our outdoor movie nights in July, or perhaps the Great Labor Day Soapbox Derby. Maybe we handed you a doughnut or cup of hot chocolate at the downtown tree lighting or sang carols at the firefighters and police officers Holiday dinner. We have prayed for you, and done our best to bless you and love you. We have tirelessly helped to restore marriages, bring healing and comfort to the sick and oppressed or anyone else who might have a personal need. We have provided camps and events

Center,

for your children and teenagers and we have given purpose and hope to those who have desired to have a personal relationship with God. Yet recently your perception of us may have changed and now you’re questioning what our church is all about. We recognize there may have been some misunderstandings regarding our recent purchase of property. Yet when all is said and done we believe our presence in downtown Clayton will be good for our community. While some feel that success in our small town is measured in sales revenues and tax dollars we are convinced there is much more to Clayton than cash flow. We believe Clayton’s greatest contribution is to be a genuine community that makes friends out of strangers and neighbors out of acquaintances. Our greatest desire is to be an anchor for our community to thrive and grow. Our city leaders have been working hard to revitalize the downtown but we all must realize the limitations of our retail oppor-

from page A1

be a strong regional center when all is said and done,”

Mirkovich says. In addition to the major

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

THE NEW YARDBIRDS in the CVCenter is set to open the first part of April. The old Yardbirds was purchased by Home Depot.

demolition and new construction, work will continue on remodeling the façade of current buildings, including the strip of stores next to Yardbird’s. Franklin anticipates that all construction and leasing will be completed by the end of the year. Mirkovich says current tenants are thriving amidst the dirt and dust during the CV center’s major overhaul. “We’ve done our best to accommodate everybody,” adds Franklin. “When you’re operating a shopping center while undergoing construction, it never goes as quickly as you want it to. It’s gone pretty well.”

chance. Wait to see our plans before you make a decision about us and our plans. We all have a dream for what Clayton could be because we all want to make it a better place to live. How could we not? This is our home and we love it too, which is why we believe this plan is still a very good and realistic vision for Clayton. If you would like to see more of what we are about, join us for church any Sunday at 9 or 10:45am at Diablo View Middle School. Please know we will be communicating more to you once the escrow on the property closes in November. In the meantime you can reach us at: claytoncc@claytoncc.com or call us at 925-673-9060. We look forward to partnering with you, our community, in this exciting adventure. Sincerely , Your friends and neighbors from Clayton Community Church

5

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tunities and the past struggles we have had in supporting viable businesses. Our desire is to build two facilities—the first will be a worship center which might also be available for community and civic events such as concerts, civic and theatre events in addition to Sunday morning gatherings. The second, two story building will provide classrooms, offices, and 23 retail stores. We are convinced that these facilities will draw hundreds of potential consumers to our downtown and help make Clayton a “destination” spot for years to come. We believe these plans will be a win-win for generating even greater city revenue and community development and will bring much more life to our beautiful downtown than we see now or have seen for many years. Some will say they believe the church should have a home but not in their backyard. Yet certainly there must be room for those who live in the community to be considered a valuable asset to the greater downtown community. We have been looking for a home for ten years and believe now is the time to plant our roots firmly in the center of what we hold dear, the people and community of Clayton and Concord. Our deepest desire is to be a blessing. All we ask is that you hear us out and give us a fair

March 9, 2007

surrounded by stunning Mount Diablo Hillside and Canyon views. Privacy with the conveniences and comforts we all enjoy. This spacious 5 Bedroom, 3 Bath Craftsman home is perfect for enter13960 Marsh Creek Road, taining guests. Extensive redClayton wood decks and patio areas surround a swimming pool that includes a waterfall backdrop as part of the gorgeous terraced landscaping. There’s also a Guest House built above a large garage with a bedroom, bath and its broker own kitchen. This definitely has the potential of becoming an office with its own workshop. 1.6 acre Keller Williams Realty property includes areas for (510) 333-4460 (Cell) potential additions, possibly to (510) 528-4500 (Office) include horses or RV parking.

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Clayton mayor visits high school as “Principal for a Day” TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

son is obvious, he said. Students must pass the exit exam to graduate. The STAR test is voluntary. Despite the cold, rainy weather, the two men left the warmth of Swanson’s office and set off across campus, stopping at various classrooms along the way. First stop was woodshop.

up to date of the classrooms Walcutt saw on his tour. Budget cuts were a hot topic Clayton Mayor Bill Walcutt for the two men. The school is went back to school last week as still trying to recover from the part of the Mt. Diablo Unified severe budget cuts of 2001 and School District’s “Principal for a 2002 which cut funds for techDay” program. nology by 50 percent. “They Walcutt got an up close look were a slash to the throat,” at the difficulties faced by teachSwanson said. ers and students The talk of as they tackle budget cuts and teaching and unfunded state learning in a and federal nearly 60-yearmandated proold school with grams struck a outdated equipfamiliar chord ment and space with the mayor. constraints and a “ T h e y host of man(Sacramento, dates handed Congress) have down by the all these manstate and federal dated prog ove r n m e n t s ; grams, but no mandates that money to fund come with no t h e m . f u n d i n g Unfunded Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer attached. Mayor BIll Walcutt and CVHS Principal Gary Swanson visit the wood- mandates —Before tour- shop as part of the school district’s Principal for a Day program. just like the city, ing the campus, he said, shaking Walcutt joined Principal Gary As they entered the empty class- his head. Swanson in Swanson’s office room, Walcutt exclaimed, “This “I get the impression that where the principal gave the is the same equipment I used in Sacramento is trying to micromayor a brief rundown on the high school. Even the sink is the manage the schools,” he continschool’s progress in meeting the same.” Walcutt is 59. ued. “It’s a top down rather than requirements of the No Child As they took off towards the a bottom up approach. It never Left Behind Act passed by science lab, Swanson talked worked in business, why would Congress in 2001. The legisla- about the impact that lack of it work in the schools?” tion, designed to increase space and outdated equipment Despite the difficulties of accountability in elementary and has on the school’s burgeoning running a high school on next secondary schools, requires stu- science program. “We have sci- to nothing, Walcutt is optimistic dents to pass an “exit exam” in ence labs meeting at 7 a.m.,” about Swanson’s ability to manorder to graduate and has put said Swanson. The Bunsen age. “He’s got a background in pressure on the schools to bet- burners in the chemistry lab are business,” said the mayor. “He’s ter meet the needs of the special nearly 60 years old and “even if been out in the real world.” education students. we were at 100 percent,” he The Principal for a Day proWhile generally supportive said, “we still wouldn’t have gram is designed to help comof the idea of standardized test- enough space for the program.” munity leaders better undering, Swanson noted some real Walcutt was surprised at the stand the role of the school discrepancies between the lack of resources available for principal and to get an inside required federally mandated exit the science programs. “We look at their local school with an exam results and those of the expect our kids to keep up with eye to forging partnerships non-mandatory California technology so they can compete between the schools and comSTAR (Standardized Testing in the global economy, but we munity leaders. and Reporting) achievement give them tools from the “We need to take every test. 1950s,” he said. opportunity that we have to talk The exit exam has a pass rate Auto shop, however, was a to our elected officials or write of about 90 percent, Swanson different story. With its new letters to Sacramento when the explained. But, the STAR state of the art computer ana- schools need support on legislaresults are in a decline. The rea- lyzer, auto shop was the most tion,” Walcutt said.

Arts, from page A1 essence of the arts event which featured art for sale, live demonstrations, nature displays like “Our Buzz Buddies” by the Mt. Diablo Beekeepers Association, musical and dance performances and guest appearances by local authors and illustrators. Those who attended the arts event were encouraged to further their interest in a certain art form or nature topic by reading more about it from the library’s collection. Young Nathanael moved quickly from one demo table to the other and even

Brain Teaser

stopped to hear a representative from the Native Bird Connection talk about the survival of the Kestrel. Others spent some time with David Osteen from the Clayton Pumpkin Farm who hosted an interesting display on worm composting. Clayton resident Jane Peterson spent a lot of time listening to Osteen and watching the worms making compost. The event was sponsored by the Clayton Community Library Foundation.

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The people are taking books and Mike works for a Library.

February 23, 2007


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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 9, 2007

Club News

Est.1972

Smith & Bernal

Garden Club takes on downtown rose bushes

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

How many Garden Club members does it take to prune a rose bush? In this case, four. From left, Joann Caspar, Linda Cruz, Peggy Arundell and Rosalie Zollars.

Nine energetic members of the Clayton Valley Garden Club met on Center Street last month to begin the club’s spring beautification efforts. After two hours, they had cut back the roses in 11 raised beds. The garden club is hoping the roses will be in bloom in time for the Clayton Garden Tour on April 28 and 29 and for the Art and Wine Festival the first weekend in May. The Clayton Valley Garden Club also has planted and takes care of the two large beds behind the library. Club members will plants flowers in the raised pots on Main Street this month. The Clayton Pioneer’s Garden Girl, Nicole Hackett, will be the guest speaker at the club’s next meeting. The topic is spring blooming perennials and new summer installations. The club will meet 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, in the dining room at Diamond Terrace. For more information on the Garden Club, call JoAnn Caspar 672-7680 or email gaycaspar@aol.com.

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Soroptimists of Diablo Vista name Women of Distinction The Soroptimist International of Diablo Vista Women of Distinction Awards luncheon took place on Jan. 31 at the Contra Costa Country Club. Sister Dorothy Stack was honored for teaching young women. In 1992, she arrived at Carondelet High School in Concord to coordinate the Community Service Program. Through the program, Carondelet students had worked at the Cambridge Crisis Center since 1998. When the center was closing its doors in 2003, Stack and a cohort of students exerted their influence, helping form the core of the Monument Crisis Center. Jay-Marie Garcia is known for advocating for low-income and at-risk families. In 2003, Garcia chaired the organizing committee of the board of the Monument Crisis Center. She recommended to her Pleasant Hill Soroptimist Club that they use their charitable tax status to sponsor the new crisis center. She also has helped Shelter Inc. and served on the Californians for Affordable Health Reform (CAHR) committee. Kay Lane makes a difference through counseling and promoting girls’ interest in math and science. She has chaired the Tech

C LAYTON B USINESS

AND

The Clayton Business and C o m m u n i t y Association recently donated $2500 to the Clayton Valley High School football team for a much-needed blocking sled. CVHS football players attended the CBCA monthly meeting at Oakhurst Country Club to extend thanks from all players and coaches Pictured from left: Student athletes, Kevin Tellian, Spencer Blumberg, CBCA Past President, Joe

Trek program since 2004 for the Clayton American Association of University Women. Tech Trek promotes math and science for girls going into eighth grade through a oneweek program at Mills College in Oakland. Lane also offers grief counseling at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church and Concord Methodist Church. Barbara Langsdale was honored for aidPhoto by Lori Moirao ing autistic children Jay-Marie Garcia, Stacey Marie Penney, Kay Lane, Sister Dorothy and their families at Stack and Barbara Langsdale were honored by the Soroptimists. the We Care Services for Children agency in Concord. She does and education while raising her children. public relations, marketing, grant writing Penney has been an instructional assistant in and fundraising for children’s programs. a SDC classroom of high school students Langsdale was also the group’s Woman of with disabilities. She will receive her bachelor’s degree at the end of this school year the Year. Stacey Marie Penney, winner of this and wants to earn a teaching credential. For more information on the year’s Women’s Opportunity Award, has Soroptimists, email Gloria Utley at faced economic and personal hardships but gloutley@aol.com yet worked to gain additional skills, training

C OMMUNITY A SSOCIATION

Medrano, and Danny Roper. For more information on the CBCA, call Sue White, 672-2272.

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CONCORD ROTARY The club’s Endowment Spring Fling takes place in the “Scottish Highlands” this year. The event will be at the Concord Hilton, 1970 Diamond Blvd., beginning Mar. 31 with cocktails and a silent auction at 5:30 p.m. and dinner at 7. There will be Scottish dancers and bagpipe players, plus a live auction and raffle at 8 p.m. The cost is $50, with a table for 10 available for $450. Proceeds will be used for community service projects, including the purchase of dictionaries for third-grade students, the U.S. Map Stencil project and Adopt-a-School program. For reservations, call 258-0502.

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(925) 260-5363 6200 Center St. Ste. 220, Clayton Check my website for FREE list of foreclosure auctions in northern California.


March 9, 2007

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

User-edited Wikipedia is the Internet’s ultimate resource

INTEGRITY HANDS-ON

BUILDERS

40 YEARS

COMBINED EXPERIENCE

When my father was in school, the encyclopedia was a collection of heavy volumes that were never updated. I grew up with this type of encyclopedia but always found it cumbersome to use. Thanks to a site called Wikipedia, I now have a replacement for those heavy volumes. W i k i p e d i a (http://en.wikipedia.org) is an encyclopedia with a twist. Anyone can edit or add new articles to it. As a result, the site is constantly updated by its legions of members. In terms of content, Wikipedia is superior to other encyclopedias. Type in “Clayton, California” and you can find a small article on the town – something not in the Encyclopedia Britannica. Because it is always expanding, Wikipedia offers thousands of articles on just about everything. While the online edition of Britannica boasts about 100,000 articles, many will be outdated by the time you read them. You also have to pay about $70 a year if you want to read the encyclopedia. In contrast, Wikipedia is free and offers more than 1,630,000

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“We met and fell in love on the dance floor,” says Joan. Craig insists that he made a few unsuccessful attempts at meeting Joan during competitions. Eventually, they connected during the social dance in the evening after one of the events. “He was very charming and fun,” Joan says of her first encounters with Craig. Although country dance is a part-time indulgence for Craig

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and Joan, it was an integral part of their life before they met and remains so. By day, Joan is a student services coordinator at Foothill Middle School in Walnut Creek and Craig is a building inspector and code enforcement officer for the city of El Cerrito. Frequently throughout the year, they leave their conservative careers and put on their cowboy boots and hats and dance. They enjoy competing but also like the connection they experience on the dance floor. “What draws us to dance together is that one moment when you achieve that perfect connection through non-verbal communication,” Joan says. When they met, Joan and Craig brought their own personal dance history to the mix.

search box. Using this will give you a feel for the variety of articles in this modern encyclopedia. With just a few clicks, I discovered information about Polish football, the moons of Saturn and education in Greece. One can spend hours looking through Wikipedia’s material. Wikipedia is a controversial topic for some people, however. Because of its open-edit policy, the site has been criticized by organizations like the New York Times and Microsoft. They claim that information on Wikipedia is suspect, because digital vandals can alter information to make it biased or false. My professors at Saint Mary’s College have warned me about using Wikipedia as a source for research. Yet, a study by the scientific journal Nature concluded that Wikipedia’s accuracy is comparable to the Encyclopedia Britannica’s. Nature found that Wikipedia had about 3.86 errors per article, while Britannica had about 2.92. Wikipedia maintains its accuracy through self-correction. The site employs numerous volunteer editors, who watch for vandalism and ensure that articles maintain Joan’s dance journey goes back to her college days, when she minored in dance at West Michigan University. There, she joined the University dancers, an ensemble that performed in various venues including opera. About 12 years ago, Joan decided to take lessons at a local dance studio and was soon asked to represent the studio in competition. “I got hooked,” she says. From there, Joan traveled the dance circuit with various partners – earning awards and accolades for her performances. She still competes with her coach and partner, Ronnie DeBenedetta of San Diego. In 2002, Joan was overall world champion Crystal 1 in the ProAm division at the World Championships in the Netherlands. Craig’s parents were dancers who eventually persuaded him to take some lessons. “I found that

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articles that are constantly updated. Browsing through a Website with more than a million articles may seem daunting, but Wikipedia is easy to use. On the left side of the home page is a search box, where you can look up different subjects. When you search for a topic, Wikipedia will display either the most relevant article or a list of articles that relate to your search. The rest of the home page includes featured articles, current events and a “Did you know?” section. Articles on Wikipedia vary in size. For instance, the entry “Toilets in Japan” is roughly 13 pages, while “Clayton, California” is about a page and a half. This disparity is not permanent, though, as Wikipedia encourages people to edit existing entries to make them better. Good Wikipedia articles cite their sources at the bottom of the page. Articles that are featured on the Wikipedia home page can have dozens of references. If you’re not looking for a particular article, try using Wikipedia’s “Random Article” link, located just above the

Dance, from page A1

Why not redo the dining room drapes and table runners, reupholster the old sofa with fabulous new fabric for a great new look for the New Year!

Page A9

Clayton

$730,000

3 bedroom, 2 bath single story in a quiet Oakhurst neIghborhood Up graded kitchen w/ granite counters. Newer appliances, large pantry. Elegant living and dining rooms Cozy family room w/ gas heater insert. Picturesque backyard w/ beautiful pool, waterfall, covered patio and private vineyard

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ON

THE

NET

a neutral tone. Certain articles that relate to hot-button issues might be “semi-protected,” meaning that anonymous users or people who have recently joined Wikipedia can’t edit them. In case vandalism does occur, editors can actually roll back an article to a previous state. Ultimately, Wikipedia is a useful tool for people who want to learn more about, well, anything. Most Wikipedia articles are informative and well-written, and I have often used their sources for my own research. I’ve even done a little editing to improve the site. Maybe you should, too. The “Clayton, California” entry could use some expanding by our local experts. Mark Freeman is a graduate of De La Salle High School and a freshman at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga. He plans to study economics and currently writes for the school paper. Questions/comments can be sent to mfreeman543@gmail.com. I had a little talent,” he says. He describes himself as a “street dancer” with a lot of passion. “I was somewhat unpolished.” Craig teaches West Coast swing and country dance at Rhythm St. Dance Studio in Dublin. He competes in the ProAm division with his students ranging in age from early teens into their 60s. With the prestigious World champion win under their belt, Joan and Craig are looking forward to their next challenge, the Crown Division, which is reserved for the highest level of dancers over the age of 40, and the Professional 8 division, where couples perform eight dances in succession. Joan explains that this next level will definitely test their skills and stamina against dancers half their age. Stamina doesn’t seem to be a problem for the Clayton couple. Along with their professional careers, Joan and Craig have a schedule that would tax even the fittest athletes. A breast cancer survivor for the past eight years, Joan travels to San Diego every six weeks to train with DeBenedetta and works on routines with Craig in their makeshift dance studio at home in Clayton. They dance every chance they get, even in the supermarket, explains Craig. “We were in the cereal aisle recently and a really good song came on over the intercom and I just started dancing … directly in front of the Cheerios.”

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Page A10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 9, 2007

Pharming, phishing and phallacy

WILL CLANEY TECH TALK As if virus, Trojans, malware and Phishing weren’t enough, now there’s Pharming (farming) and it’s coming to a router near you, very near you. If you have ever wondered if you would succumb to malicious hacker attacks, be susceptible to identity theft, have your bank accounts compromised or have your kids exposed to porn, then wonder no more – it’s happening in your router now. This one caught me off guard. Just the other day, I was feeling euphoric about my master skills at computer security. My false sense of self-worth was beginning to fill my head with delusions of grandeur. I was the supreme viri conqueror, the master of security, the captain of my ship. So much for the fallacy of dreams. This Pharming attack is the most insidious, sinister and

potentially menacing development yet devised by hackers. (Actually it’s quite brilliant and I like it a lot, but that’s just my sinister side.) According to Wikipedia (the encyclopedia for geeks), “Pharming is a hacker’s attack aiming to redirect a Website’s traffic to another (bogus) Website.” Pharming attacks seem impervious to all known counter measures. And no, your antivirus program won’t stop it. In fact, the countermeasures from your computer will never see it coming. In a Pharming attack, your router is the target of the hacker. Rather than attack your protected computer, it goes after your unprotected router. The router is that little box connected to your broadband modem for cable or DSL access. The router takes Internet requests from computers on your network and sends the request to the Internet. In turn, the answer, or Web page or whatever you requested is “routed” back to the requesting computer. Routers are more commonly known by their brand names, like D-Link, Linksys, Netgear, Belkin, Buffalo or Cisco. If you have one of these routers or one like it, you will soon be hit as 100,000-plus bot computers start combing the Internet for

B.) Illustrates how a “hacked” DNS translation (Web name look-up) operates

Mayor, from page A1 goes away on July 1 and so does our ability to maintain the landscaping in the medians, trails and open space. The landscape maintenance budget will go from $550,000 a year to $0 (zero dollars) a year. Regrettably, we have no way of making up this shortfall with an annual General Fund budget of only $3.7 million. I know it is difficult for people to comprehend that there is such a thing as a tax with a sunset date, a tax that actually goes away, but it is true. I understand why people are skeptical,

because I remember learning about temporary taxes that government has imposed in my high school civics class – and we are all still paying them. Believe me that was a long time ago. However, voters will have the opportunity to administer CPR to the Landscape Maintenance District on June 5, 2007, by supporting a new tax of $196.77 a year. It would replace the current $127.88 tax. It is not in addition to it. In other words, it is $68.89 a year more than you are current-

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A.) Illustrates how a normal DNS translation (Web name lookup) operates your router. Bots are compromised to do the bidding of hackers. Pharming attacks actually change the innards of the router and make the router “route” to an infected, “false” domain server (main computer). The Dynamic Name Service (DNS) computer is like a giant phone book listing the phone numbers of everyone on the Internet. Instead of phone numbers like 1-925-672-9989 (my number), it uses IP addresses like 206.13.31.12 (the DNS address of the AT&T server). The Pharming attack resets the DNS and begins to send you to false Web pages. While on the false Web pages (which look amazingly like real ones), they may ask you to log into your bank account. When you do, they steal your password, log in themselves and help themselves to as much money as they can hall away. In an instant – you’re broke. Worst of all, there is nothing you can do to recover the money. Law enforcement officials are unable to arrest the “perp,” even if they knew who he was. But don’t worry, your money will be sunning on a Cayman Island beach. Let’s say your kids are on My Space chatting with their school friends and all of a sudden, without warning, with no notice

ly paying. That is it. You will go from $127.88 year to $196.77 a year. There are no hidden taxes, no funny accounting and no fancy political maneuvering. Remember, “Disbelief in magic can force a poor soul into believing in government and business” (Tom Robbins). I hope this will add some clarity to this issue. If you would like to see the new annual budget or the new maintenance standards, please go to the city’s Website at www.ci.clayton.ca.us. As always, if you have any questions, concerns, comments or advice please send me an email at wrwalcutt@aol.com.

at all, a porn site pops up. Hackers consider this a pretty funny joke, do you? How about chatting on your Skype or Vontage VoIP (voice over IP) account and having your conversation overheard by Pharmers? What about having your whole identity stolen in a moment? Think of the possibilities. What can you do to stop it? Well, there aren’t any software solutions, counter measures or AOL services that will prevent this. Your best answer is a special password, which must be placed precisely in the right spot of your router, well-crafted and designed to be unbreakable. Then and only then will you … Oh, but, well, nah … It will never happen to you.

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Will Claney is the owner and operator of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-672-9989. Illustrations provided by Sid Stamm of Indiana University in his paper “Drive-By Pharming.”

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March 9, 2007

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Preview Thurs. Feb. 22, 4 8pm, $2

Barta focuses on natural healing

February 23 thru March 31

JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

The Rocking 60’s Musical Soap Opera

Clayton resident Theresa Peters suffered many years with severe asthma and lethargy. She tried all kinds of therapeutic treatments and chiropractic care, but nothing seemed to help. It wasn’t until she scheduled a consultation with Jeanne Barta, Peters says, that her health began to improve. Peters has been Barta’s patient for five years. “I go through time getting well,” she says of her relationship with Barta Chiropractic on Clayton Road in Concord. Barta has been working in

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Page A11

“Diamond Terrace has a family atmosphere with friendly residents and a congenial and efficient staff to ensure that things run smoothly.” – Bob Davidson

the chiropractic field for 22 years. She emphasizes working with the whole body in terms of general health. She enjoys the challenge of her profession. “I want to educate people, getting them to take responsibility for their health,” says Barta. She does this by first talking with each client to gain an insight into their current health, and then focusing on areas that need help. Is the client concerned about weight? Does fatigue interfere with daily activities? Is the client suffering from aches and pains? Are allergies out of control? Through her practice, patients are evaluated in a variety of ways. With the use of an Activator, she is able to ascertain joints that are misaligned, she explains. By stimulating nerve endings, she can help restore joint dysfunction in the spinal column and extremities. The hand-held instrument is painless and precise, Barta says. Patients can also receive a professional treatment called NAET, or Nambudripads. This allergy elimination system has proven effective for many of her clients since she began using the technique some 13 years ago, Barta explains. Rather than treat the symptoms, she and the NAET system seek the causes of the symptoms, which can be reduced or eliminated permanently. “My patients respond beautifully to the technique,” Barta says, “especially children

Jill Bedecarré/Clayton Pioneer

Barta uses HRV technology to assess a patient’s state of health.

with ADD and patients with fatigue.” Another process that deals with stress is the Neuro Emotion Technique, or NET. This technique helps the healing process by releasing trauma from a patient’s tissues. While the patient is thinking about a particular trauma, Barta stimulates areas of the body with acupressure points. In the past five years, Barta has integrated nutrition into her healing process – with an emphasis on detoxification. She has also focused on a patient’s overall health, with a complete program using a fitness reading through Heart Rate Variability, musculoskeletal exam and nutri-

tional evaluation. “I like it when patients tell me they’ve tried other things, because they are then ready to try something new,” Barta says. She is often inspired by clients who tell her she has changed their lives or given them two more hours a day of usable time. Barta would like to expand her office into a clinic with a holistic approach so that the aspects of a client’s health can be addressed through natural means. She studied at Life West Chiropractic colleges in San Diego and Palmer College of Chiropractic in Sunnyvale. See ad this page.

“SUDS” rocks with sixties tunes

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Specialist in Ranch and Country Properties. Thinking of selling? Robin’s Ranches web page gets nearly 8,000 viewings a month

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Beautiful 44+ ACRE Ranch, Oakdale, California There is 3,150 square feet of living space with plenty of room for your horses. 3 bedroom and an office or 4th bedroom. PLUS there is an area to build a second home, minimum of 2,500 square feet. This property is on a quiet cul-de-sac but only minutes from downtown Oakdale. For your horses there is a 9 stall barn with a center breezeway. All stalls have Dutch doors with outside paddocks. 1 foaling stall with paddock. HUGE tack and feed room. 3 large pastures and 1 small pasture all with automatic waterers. Ranch is fenced and cross-fenced with pipe and non-climb wire. There is also a 50 foot round pen. AWESOME well gets 50 GPM and ranch has a seasonal pond (or can be kept full by well). This ranch is a terrific horse set-up or use it for any of your needs.

Motivated sellers have reduced the price from $1,950,000. to $1,650,000. Shown by appointment only For more pictures go to WWW.ROBINSRANCHES.COM

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This year I’m going to . . .

robin@robinsranches.com

Photo by Jon McNally

Are you looking for that perfect horse set-up?

They say what goes around, comes around. And what’s come back around this month is the music of the rockin’ sixties. The latest production by Crossroads Theatre in Walnut Creek offers up some of the best of the period’s sha-booms and do-wahs in the campy “Suds, the Musical Soap Opera.” Set in a laundromat sometime in the 1960s, Suds is the story of Cindy, a lonely laundromat lass played by Elizabeth Tremaine, (center) who’s having a really bad day. It’s her birthday, her cat died and her pen pal boyfriend has just written her a Dear John when an unlikely pair of guardian angels show up to help her find true love. Leah Tandberg-Warren (left) plays a rookie angel, sort of a Sandra Dee on steroids, and Michelle Pond (right), in leopard print and sequins plays the flashy, edgy, more experienced Marge. Preposterous? Silly? Of course, but then, it’s a soap opera. High drama it’s not. But, for sheer nostalgia (think “Chapel of Love” and “Who’s Sorry Now”), Suds” is a hoot.Performances are Thur.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sat. matinee at 2 p.m., through Mar. 31. For ticket information call (925) 944-0597. Crossroads Theatre is located at 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek.

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1170 Burnett Ave. Ste. E Concord 686-9901 Fax: 686-2106


Page A12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Nationwide traverses the country for investors JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Louie LeLaurin and Merre Ward practice what they preach. As owners of Nationwide Real Estate Investments in Antioch, they encourage their clients “to do as we do” – which is to invest in homes outside of California and reap the rewards of solid investment opportunities which can cash flow with only $10,000 to close escrow. Louie, a long-time insurance agent, dabbled in a few personal real estate investments in other states and immediately saw the potential of smart investing. He enjoyed the experience and liked the immediate and long-term benefits. Merre, Nationwide’s broker, personally invests in properties and has been in the business since 1976. What motivates Merre is knowing that other investment companies “burn” their clients. She says many are not truthful, they manipulate the numbers and have no concern for the longterm effect on the investor. Louie and Merre knew each other through their individual careers and started talking about their investment experiences. Louie found that he was giving lots of advice to friends about investing, and Merre was telling clients what not to do. It wasn’t long before the two professionals opened offices in Antioch and began helping clients through Nationwide Real Estate Investments. “Integrity is

Jill Bedecarré/Clayton Pioneer

DENTON WARD AND LOUIE LELAURIN of Nationwide Real Estate Investments show clients Glen and Linda Davis a few new homes on the market in emerging markets across the country.

at the top of my list,” says Merre. “We are in this for the long-term investor. We don’t flip a house.” Louie and Merre and her son, Denton, are passionate about their new business, which focuses on investing in new, out-ofstate, single-family homes in areas of potential growth throughout the United States. “We have a superior relationship with a preferred lender who’s licensed in 46 states and specializes in non-owner occupied loans” says Louie. He and Merre have made many contacts with real estate agents and property managers across the country. “We do our homework,” says Merre, noting that often entails hopping on a plane and spending the weekend visiting promising, yet-to-be dis-

covered areas of the country. “We visit all the businesses in town, even the beauty parlors, and talk to everyone,” says Louie. They focus on areas with low crime rates, diverse economics, sound principles and good school systems, he explains. They are constantly researching new opportunities for clients, as well as for themselves. “We are personally buying in the same markets,” says Louie. “We don’t inflate numbers. We give clients the true picture,” Merre adds. Louie tells of a client who purchased a home in Arizona three years ago, built up $100,000 in equity but was losing $100 a month out of pocket. He thought he could do better with his investment and came to Nationwide for help. He sold the

home in Arizona and made an $88,000 net profit after paying closing costs. After determining his objectives and goals and using a 1031 exchange, the client took $25,000 and created a reserve fund. He used the remaining $63,000 to purchase four new homes in markets that generate a $203 monthly positive cash flow. That’s without considering his depreciable tax benefits. According to Louie, a 1031 exchange is a type of taxdeferred investment strategy where one property is exchanged for another of the same type of equal or greater value. The gains are not recognized at the time of the sale but rather carry over into the new property. “He’s definitely a happy camper,” says Louie. Educating prospective clients is an important part of Nationwide’s services. The company hosts a free seminar once a month at Heald College in Concord. The meeting includes information on the how tos of real estate investing in other parts of the country, with advice and direction from Louie and Merre. The next seminar, on Wednesday, March 28, will feature a builder from Mississippi. Louie likens himself and Merre to “two kids in a candy store,” as they research to find the best home values in emerging markets across the country. “We just enjoy helping people create wealth,” says Merre. See ad this page.

Photo by Julianne Saint

THE CLAYCORDIANS will perform at a Music Boosters fund-raiser on March 31.

CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL The Clayton Valley Music Boosters will host a dinner/dance on Saturday, March 31, to help fund the instrumental music classes at CVHS. The benefit takes place at Oakhurst Country Club, starting at 6:30 p.m. Live music will feature Dixieland, swing, Latin and pop and crooner favorites. The Claycordians Trad Jazz Band

and Clayton Valley Jazz will perform. To order tickets or for more information, contact Laurel Madal or Mundy Viar at 6827474, ex. 3125. The Society for International Travel is taking applications for a trip to Athens and Rome in August. Parents and students are welcome to register. E-mail rossj@mdusd.k12.ca.us for more information.

MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MDES will host its 7th annual Benefit Auction, “Hollywood Nights,” 5-11 p.m. Saturday, April 21, at Centre Concord. Donations are welcome. For more information about the event, call Kim Lally at 6720270 or Denise Stephens at 6728510. PIXIE PLAY SCHOOL Youngsters are invited to join Pixie Play School for a “messy” day of play. On Wednesday, March 21, the preschool class (3 to 5 year olds) will play from 9:30 a.m. to noon, and the junior kindergarteners (4 ½ to 6 year olds) will play from 1:30-3:30 p.m. On Thursday, March 22,

Call NOW to RSVP for our FREE March 28 Workshop, limited seating

People like you are buying investment homes just like this one!

Find out how

“But...if you want to buy or sell a home today, then call our Dad!”

925-673-9164 Bill Calkins Clayton Resident & Neighbor Helping People Find Their Way Home!

Ask about our Special Programs for Buyers & Sellers

UÜ|Çz|Çz çÉâ à{x uxáà Éy uxtâàç Professional Nail Salon For Men and Women e're proud to welcome you to our beautiful new nail spa.

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Second Anniversary Special Offers

Mon. - Thurs. only

4436 Clayton Rd, Suite G Across from FoodMaxx

Exp. 3/23/07

(925) 676-8668

with any Pedicure 1 coupon per customer. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

come from 9:30-11:30 a.m. to join the fun in our Half-Big class (2 to 4 year olds) or 1:303:30 p.m. for another chance to play with the junior kindergarten class. Pixie Play School, 1797 Ayers Road, Concord, is a nonprofit cooperative preschool that has served families in the Diablo Valley since 1954. For more information, call 6894030. All Pixie Play School alumni and friends are invited to a dinner/auction and Cinco de Mayo celebration on May 5. The event will be 6-10 p.m. at St. Michael’s & All Angels Church, 2925 Bonifacio St., Concord. The cost of the adult-only event is $15. For more information or reservations, call Sarah Wilcox at 689-4030.

Submit School News items online You can now submit school news announcement on our Website. Go to www.claytonpioneer.com.

Concord

$5 off

any service over $25 Mon. - Thurs. only

1 coupon per customer. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Exp. 3/23/07

Also located in San Ramon: 130 Sunset Dr., (925) 866-0666

y r o t s s w e e i l v g s u Sin o l u b with fa

1125 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton This single story 4-bedroom, 3-bath home with fabulous views has numerous upgrades including new cabinetry, crown moulding, fresh paint, wood blinds, whole house audio in & out, closet organizers, 10 ft. ceilings & a huge master suite. Professionally landscaped grounds with sprinkler system, new lawn & fencing. Large 3 car finished garage has custom cabinets & additional overhead storage.

Priced @ $1,075,000 For more information contact:

Gina Ginochio (925) 827-9820 or (925) 963-2680 email: GINAGINOK@AOL.com

Rath Realtors

When it’s time to inspect, call the experts

Sales Price $166,000

I have been a realtor for 21 years and I pride myself on complete client satisfaction. This is why I use Clayton Home Inspection Services. I want my clients to receive personal and professional service not only from me but also from the companies I do business with. Roger & Lori are the BEST!

We have the highest standards in the industry and would like the opportunity to serve you.

-Patty Flannery, Diablo Realty Lori Hilts-Galvin & Roger Galvin

Year Built: 2007 Required to close $9,300 Total monthly cost $1,317 Rents for $1,350

When: Wed. March 28, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Where: Heald College Conference Center, 5130 Commercial Circle, Concord

Guests will include a top home builder fr om Mississippi and an expert in Tenant-In-Common exchanges.

Call (925) 777-1920 or visit www.NWREI.net

“If you want to buy or sell a home in 10 years call us!”

FREE Manicure

School News CVHS Drama and Music wraps up its production of “Seussical the Musical” this weekend. The play will be presented at 7 p.m. March 9 and 10 in the Multi-Use Room, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. Tickets are $5 at the door.

March 9, 2007

NATIONWIDE REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS

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) chisinspector@hotmail.com

Please visit our Website at www.ClaytonHomeInspection.net


March 9, 2007

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Nasturtiums and sweet peas are old time favorites for spring gardens Use in flowerbeds to line the borders, or in containers to support a focal point. Pair with the Amazing Red Phormium and dark burgundy Superbenia for a long blooming, evergreen combination. Black Velvet is my favorite nasturtium. It seems out of the ordinary to have such a dark red, almost black nasturtium. NICOLE HACKETT The blossoms are intriguing and unnatural – a great converGARDEN GIRL sation piece. This selection has lettuce Nasturtium and sweet green leaves that can mound to peas are charming springtime 12 inches tall and wide. The blooming plants that ramble blossom is consistently in and vine their way through bloom until the heat of June. Clayton Valley yards and garBlack Velvet reseeds, like all dens now through May. These selections of nasturtium. familiar plants are equally pleasPlanted alone or in container ant and enjoyable and most groupings, this nasturtium is important, they are adaptable to always an attention-grabber. our soil, sunshine and frost. Consider planting Sedum Nasturtium is an old-fashOgon, with its small, acid yelioned favorite often found traillow leaves, at the base of Black ing over rocks and walls in areas Velvet. The contrast of these of the garden that were empty two plants would be lovely in a weeks before. The seeds of the shallow planter atop a table. nasturtium germinate quickly, Apricot Trifle has a more and the results are fast and furicommon color scheme. This ous. semi-double nasturtium has In springs past, nasturtium apricot-hued blossoms that used to be multicolored stand out from the exceptional, oranges and gold. The nasturdark green foliage. The style of tium available today has colors this blossom is thrilling to any and textures that are as unique nasturtium lover. as the gardeners who plant it. Margaret Long is another Strawberries and Cream is a bivariety of color nasturmu l t i - p e t a l tium. This nastur tium. selection has The blossom lovely, peachseems frilly tinted cream with all its blooms with layers, as if strawber r yit’s a double c o l o r e d rosette. The blotches. flower color Unlike yesis peachy terday’s vineapricot and type nasturthe leaves are t i u m , deep green. Strawberries Margaret is a and Cream trailing varihas a comety that looks pact, unigreat tumform habit. bling out of The leaves containers CUPANI SWEET PEA are light and spilling green, a conover garden walls. You will have trast with the plant’s flower that to add this selection to your really makes the bloom stand plant wish list, because this out. expensive nasturtium is a rare

PICTURE PERFECT!

A

Built in 2004 with upgrades galore. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. Plush Carpets. Gourmet kitchen with Granite & stainless steel appliances. Formal living and dining rooms & family room with gas fireplace. Great layout, sunny open floor plan. Simply Lovely & Shows Beautifully!

Concord Listed for: $674,900

DESIRABLE REGENCY MEADOWS IN CLAYTON!

Clayton Listed for: $799,000

Gorgeous Pool! Beautiful Travertine Tile floors. 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHS. Tile Kitchen with island. Formal living room, family room with gas burning fireplace. Spacious home located on a quiet court.

A Top Producer Working for You Since 1989

JOSIE VAN FLEET Broker/Owner

925-672-4333

flowers thrive even as the weather heats up. You will enjoy this selection for many months, and next season you will be thrilled by the seedlings that will grow at their will. For gardeners craving a creamy white blossom, Mrs. Colliter is an elegant heirloom

BLACK VELVET NASTURTIUM

of romance about them, in both appearance and scent. This fragrant garden climber makes an excellent cut flower. In full bloom, the blossom resembles butterflies all a flutter. When used against a fence, the appeal is that of a cottage garden. Planted and trained up a garden obelisk, this springtime beauty adds a formal touch. Black Night is another favorite selection for me. This highly scented, heirloom sweet pea dates back to the late 1800s. Maroon flowers mature to a deep, dark red. The color is so unusual that one may think it was a new hybrid. Lathyrus Cupani is the oldest and first recorded sweet pea to be cultivated. Records indicated that this trailer has been available since the late 1600s. Cupani is named after a Sicilian monk, Francis Cupani, who found this selection growing wild. He sent the seeds home after being enticed by the remarkable fragrance. Cupani is arguably the most fragrant sweet pea available. Deep purple blue and violet bi-color

variety. The green leaves and white flower offer a formal contrast to any garden. White is a color that you can take pleasure in during evening strolls, when the fragrance is rich. Plants that focus their bloom for the spring are essential. They let the flower lover know that spring is near. Their early blossoms are a welcome sight after the cold dismal days of winter. Notice and appreciate them. They are the stepping stones to a new season. If you would like to hear more about spring blooming perennials and awesome summer garden installs, visit the Clayton Valley Garden Club on March 14. I will be the speaker at the 7 p.m. meeting at Diamond Terrace. Past members and first-timers are welcome. We have a lot of fun and show off a lot of plants. Come by and check us out. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

‘Gabor Csupo’s “Bridge to Terabithia’ is best when it sticks to the story

Independently owned and operated

t 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.

find. Lathyrus is the family that we commonly call sweet peas. This plant is poisonous, so do not let the name fool you. You can enjoy the look and fragrance, but do not ingest. Sweet peas have the widest range of vivid colors found in any plant family. They have a simple air

At the Movies

I don’t know how Gabor Csupo, director of “Rugrats” and “The Wild Thornberries” films, acquired the task of

(925) 672-3476

Page A13

Recipient of Intero’s Chairman Circle Award 22 year resident of Clayton

www.CallTheVanFleetTeam.com

filming Katherine Paterson’s Newbery Award-winning classic young adult novel “Bridge to Terabithia.” Since “Bridge” was filmed in New Zealand and boasts visuals by Weta Digital, Csupo may have been trying to acquire some of the same otherworldly cachet as “Lord of the Rings” and “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” The ad campaign certainly plays up the CGI creatures and Weta effects. “Bridge to Terabithia” is a story about art, the power of friendship and the ability of the imagination to provide a refuge in a dreary world, and how all of them help to heal the heart in a time of tragedy. It’s closer in tone to “Finding Neverland” than to “Jumanji.” The film does best when it sticks to the real world and shows how Jesse Aarons (Josh Hutcherson) and his new best friend Leslie Burke (AnnaSophia Robb) deal with its problems – bullies of both genders, isolation, distant parents. Jesse’s farm family con-

stantly teeters on the hard edge of poverty; he even has to wear his sister’s hand-medown pink sneakers. While Leslie is more affluent, her writer parents are hardly ever in evidence. Leslie’s appearance in school and in his life shows Jesse a world beyond the drudgery, nonstop television and vindictive religiosity that act as barriers in his world. The lonely children find refuge with each other and through imagining a fantasy kingdom in a private niche of the wooded area behind their houses. Unfortunately, the fantasy element is the weakest part of the film. The visuals hinder the story by distancing everything. CGI squirrel-monsters and trolls with bullies’ faces would have been better off left in the characters’ imaginings and in Jesse’s artwork. The ending is awash in this inappropriateness. I also found some of the background songs irritating, more suited for a Lindsay

JANE MAILANDER

AT

THE

MOVIES

Lohan teen-film vehicle than for a story of this weight. The cast does well in spite of this. Teen actors Hutcherson and Robb bring Jesse and Leslie’s friendship to true, believable life. Robb’s Leslie is a 180-degree turnaround from her wonderfully bratty Violet Beauregard in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Seven-year-old Bailee Madison is a natural as Jesse’s younger sister. Adults in the cast include Robert Patrick as Jesse’s overworked, unimaginative father and Zooey Deschanel as a music teacher who tries to give Jesse and her class a ray of hope for escape, illustrated in the choices of tunes she has the kids sing. Jane Mailander is a secretary and a freelance writer. She’s written movie review and short stories and appears for 10 seconds in the film “Trekkies 2.” Email her at movies@claytonpioneer.com.


Page A14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 9, 2007

georgevujnovich.com

Trust your home to

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

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

Tel: (925) 672-4433 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517

EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

Fantastic “McKinley” model!

Exquisite “Belvedere” model on premium view lot! nestled in a quiet court. Decorator’s showplace features 5

on a prime view lot overlooking hills, city, valley & beyond! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3,005sf, 2 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Desirable downstairs bedroom & full bath. Gourmet slab granite kitchen, spacious family room with brick fireplace. Gracious master suite offers a two-way fireplace & sitting area with sweeping views. Private lot features a deck great for entertaining. $939,000

bedrooms plus a den, 3.5 baths, approx. 4,100sq ft & rare 4-car garage. Downstairs bedroom with full bath. Extensively upgraded throughout featuring 16” tile floors, custom window treatments, ornate lighting fixtures, designer paint, central vacuum & extensive closet organizer systems. Gracious living room with fireplace & dramatic formal dining room. Chef’s dream gourmet kitchen offers commercial grade appliances, granite tile counters & island, maple cabinetry & spacious pantry. Enormous great room with impressive two-way granite tile fireplace & walk around bar. Lavish master suite boasts a large “Trex” deck balcony offing sensational views! Remarkable private oasis lot backs to open space with Mt. Diablo, canyon & ridgeline views & features a spectacular freeform pool with raised spa boasting a stacked stone backdrop featuring a cascading waterfall, custom outdoor kitchen & lush $1,495,000 professional landscape.

BLACK DIAMOND AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

Sharp “Summit” model! nestled at the end of a quiet court. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,991sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Extended tile entry. Living room features and upgraded double sided marble slab fireplace, soaring ceiling & neutral carpet. Formal dining area with upgraded chandelier & neutral carpet. Kitchen features tile counters & island, oak cabinets, laminate wood floors that extend into family room. Spacious master suite features a cozy bay window sitting area. Backyard features a trellis covered deck, side yard with brick trimmed raised patio & lush mature landscape. $619,000

IRONWOOD/WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

Great “Balustrol” model! 4 bedrooms plus a den/office, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,355sf, inside laundry & oversized 2 car garage. Tiled entry features soaring ceiling. Sunken living room & formal dining room with upgraded carpet. Gourmet kitchen featuring upgraded maple cabinets, pantry, tile counters, island, & floors. Family room offers a cozy fireplace, media alcove, high ceiling with upgraded ceiling fan. Spacious master suite features a walk-in closet, separate tub, shower & tile floors. Professionally landscaped lot offers a cement aggregate patio & large lawn area. $775,000 BLACK DIAMOND AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

Stunning “Summit” model! located in a quiet court setting with awesome Mt. Diablo views! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,991sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Two-way fireplace shared by living & family rooms. Separate formal dining area. Spacious gourmet kitchen features tile counters & center island. Magnificent view lot offers a custom decking, brickwork & patio, arbor features 10’ Roman pillars, upgraded landscape lighting, lovely rose & fern gardens. $634,500

NG I D PEN

WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

ING D N PE

Large Single Story “Keller” model! tucked away at the end of a quiet court backing to oak studded open space. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 2,053sf. Upgraded marble floors extend from entry into formal dining room. Tile kitchen open to family room with upgraded marble tile fireplace. Spacious master suite with retreat. Neutral colors & décor throughout. Extensive use of natural slate in front & rear yard hardscape. Private rear lot features lots of mature trees, lawn area & patio, plus a relaxing spa. $715,000

Mortgage Market Update Conforming $417,000 or less

Jumbo $417,001 and up

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . . . .6.0% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . . . .6.0% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .6.125% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . .6.125% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.0% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.25%

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . . . .6.0% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . . . .6.0% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .6.125% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . .6.125% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.125% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.375%

Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS 596 Mt. Dell Drive 100 Gold Rush Court 32 Nottingham Circle 407 Grenache Circle 1342 El Camino Drive 5472 Tara Drive 236 Stranahan Circle 1287 Shell Lane 7 Mt. Wilson Way 115 La Encinal Ct 11 Mt. McKinley Ct 501 Condor Place 1043 Kenston Drive 5475 Tara Drive 1056 Pebble Beach Drive 158 Regency Drive 1337 Shell Lane 15715 Marsh Creek Road 1445 Yosemite Circle 1114Oakwood Circle 1541 Haviland Pl 4405 Coyote Cir 7024 Molluk Way 3105 Windmill Canyon Dr 9001 Elk Drive 1880 Eagle Peak Ave 120 Mt. Etna Dr 5227 Keller Ridge Drive 1743 Indian Wells Way 608 Julpun Loop 1735 Indian Wells Way 3305 Coyote Circle 380 Blue Oak Lane 1848 Eagle Peak Ave 1068 Mitchell Canyon Road 1130 Peacock Creek Drive 4301 Coyote Circle 20 Mt. McKinley Court 129 Mt. Etna Drive 705 Condor Place 503 Raven Place 7018 Molluk Way

PRICE $575,000 $600,000 $696,360 $765,000 $685,000 $600,000 $599,000 $503,000 $475,000 $895,000 $760,000 $515,000 $805,000 $460,000 $1,125,000 $700,000 $519,000 $1,447,600 $690,000 $1,850,000 $472,000 $430,000 $650,000 $670,000 $745,000 $775,000 $495,000 $860,000 $611,000 $605,000 $599,000 $465,000 $950,000 $787,000 $675,000 $1,129,000 $539,000 $739,980 $499,200 $455,000 $675,000 $775,000

SALE DATE

SF

2/27/07 2/23/07 2/22/07 2/21/07 2/16/07 2/16/07 2/15/07 2/09/07 2/08/07 1/31/07 1/24/07 1/24/07 1/19/07 1/11/07 1/10/07 1/04/07 1/02/07 12/29/06 12/29/06 12/28/06 12/22/06 12/20/06 12/15/06 12/14/06 12/06/06 12/05/06 11/28/06 11/28/06 11/28/06 11/28/06 11/17/06 11/09/06 11/08/06 11/08/06 11/08/06 11/02/06 11/01/06 10/31/06 10/28/06 10/20/06 10/17/06 10/13/06

1,926 1,597 2,088 2,052 2,325 1,739 1,650 1,367 1,378 2,428 1,981 1,595 1,800 1,313 3,620 2,032 1,355 4,125 2,493 3,840 1,256 1,026 1,816 1,816 2,237 2,467 1,627 2,843 1,749 1,749 1,749 1,252 3,008 2,313 1,494 3,185 1,554 1,919 1,442 1,026 1,877 2,674

BED/BATH 4/2.5 3/2 4/2 4/2.5 5/3 4/3 3/2.5 2/2.5 3/2.5 4/2.5 4/2 3/2.5 4/2 2/2 5/2.5 4/2.5 3/2.5 4/3.5 3/2.5 3/2.5 2/2 2/2 3/2 3/2 4/2 4/3 4/2 4/3 3/2.5 3/2.5 3/2.5 2/2.5 4/3 4/2.5 3/2 5/3.5 3/2.5 4/2 3/2 2/2 3/2.5 4/3


CLAYTON PIONEER March 9, 2007

Section B

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B1

Exploring Seattle’s open space was a great gig

KEVIN PARKER

HIKER’S HAVEN This is a tough time of year to hit the trail with any regularity due to limited daylight, muddy conditions and my best excuse, lack of time. However, it feels good to be writing again and I believe my short sabbatical has revived my passion for finding the ultimate hiking trail. Having not spent much time in Washington, I felt it was important to pack up the family and take an extra long weekend to explore what this great state has to offer. Luckily for me, we have family who live in Gig Harbor, which is about 45 miles southeast of Seattle. This location served as a perfect home base for a variety of recreational opportunities. Everything listed in this column is kid-friendly, because after all, life as I know it revolves around naps, strollers and Cheerios which keep showing up in the strangest places. DOWNTOWN GIG HARBOR Washington’s premier maritime village is complete with miles of shoreline, parks and deep-water bays. Activities such

Photo by Kevin Parker

WITH

MILES OF SHORELINE

and deep water bays, Gig Harbor is famous for water sports and boating of all kinds.

as boating, golf, diving, walking, dining, outdoor events and festivals are just a few of the many things you can do here. Walking along the harbor and the downtown area provided great opportunities for exploring art galleries, shops and my favorite, the Java and Clay Café. Unlike most corner coffee shops, this pottery painting studio and coffee lounge is where caffeine and art have melded into one. I also recommend seeing the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and

hen you live in a place as exciting and beautiful as the Clayton Valley area, it’s hard not to be excited for each new day,” Lynne French says. “From the energy of the city to the natural setting of the country, there’s always something to keep me on the go.”

“W

Lynne brings this positive energy and love for the Clayton Valley to her long-running career as a real estate professional.

the near completion of a second span, the New Tacoma Narrows Bridge, adjacent to the first one. Both bridges are spectacular, and the best views are from New Narrows Park in Gig Harbor. As the history books would have it, the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge opened in July 1940 and later became known as “Galloping Gertie.” She collapsed on Nov. 7, 1940, from her solid stiffening girders and their inability to let wind pass through. The community’s

involvement in protecting the sunken remains of Galloping Gertie seems to be an ongoing cause, especially with the construction of the new bridge, which is scheduled for completion in 2008. POINT DEFIANCE PARK This was probably the highlight of the trip, considering sunshine and warm temperatures greeted us on our first day at this park. Originally set aside

See Hikers, page B7

Always focused on your needs throughout your home purchase or sale, she does whatever it takes to help you make the most of your opportunities. With Lynne and her team as your guides, you can Discover the Possibilities in Clayton Valley real estate. Her intimate knowledge of the area and dedication to your goals ensure your success when buying or selling a home. Give her a call today!

(925) 672-8787 www.LynneFrench.com Lynne@LynneFrench.com 6200-E Center St.

Clayton, CA 94517

DESTINATION: GIG HARBOR, WASH., AND SURROUNDING AREAS Getting There: Fly into Sea-Tac (Seattle Tacoma International Airport) Weather Data: Washington gets an average of 226 cloudy and/or rainy days per year Highest Peak: Mt. Rainier (14,411 ft.) Factoid: Seattle tops the list of America’s Most Educated Cities For more info: Gig Harbor, www.cityofgigharbor.net. Point Defiance Park, www.metroparkstacoma.org/ page.php?id=24.Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, www.pdza.org/. Discovery Park, www.cityofseattle.net/ parks/ Environment/discovparkindex.htm.


Page B2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 9, 2007

Clayton Sports

Eagles take a running leap into track season DEANNA MERRIGAN Clayton Pioneer

The Clayton Valley Eagles track team is looking forward to an exciting season, as some key athletes strive to motivate themselves and each other to do well in the Bay Valley Athletic League (BVAL) and to qualify for the North Coast Section (NCS) and NCS Meet of Champions. for upcoming track meets. Ultimately, these top athletes would then strive to qualify for the State Meet in June. Coaches Dan Sandoval (women) and Les Garaventa (men) have highlighted a few high-caliber athletes. Senior Terrell Woodall competes in the 110 and 300 hurdles, triple jump and 4x100 relay. He is a returning State Meet qualifier. Look for Terrell to repeat as the BVAL 110 hurdle and 300 hurdle champ. Sandoval calls him “stellar,” and Garaventa says he is an “exceptional student-athlete.” Alana Laux also shows promise. As a freshman, she went to the Meet of the Champions and just missed State. Alana took some time away from track because of an injury, but her coach expects the senior to go to state this year. As a sprinter, she was undefeated as a freshman. “She is a strong lady. She’s determined, she’s focused,” says Sandoval, adding that she’s “just so talented.”

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

Terrell Woodall is looking to repeat last year’s performance in the BVAL 110 hurdle and 300 hurdle championships. Junior Keith Franklin is another one to watch. His events are the 100 and 200 meter and 4x100 relay. “He is our top sprinter, who we look to excel throughout the season,” notes Garaventa. “If Keith con-

tinues to progress, he will be challenging for the BVAL sprint championship.” Senior Kevin Johnson is an NCS qualifier in the discus and shot put. Garaventa sees Kevin as one of the top discus throw-

ers in the area. “Kevin should also be challenging for the league shot put championship,” he adds. Kevin’s best throw is 135 feet for the discus and 43-44 feet for shot put. “Hopefully, I’ll

be a state qualifier,” he says. Danny Roper, a junior, also participates in the shot put and discus throw. The coach calls him a very good student-athlete. “My biggest goal is to make it to the NCS Meet of Champions,”

says Danny. “For my events, my goals are to throw the discus 140 to 150 feet and the shot put 45 to 50 feet by the end of the season.” Pole vaulter Eric Piccolotti started with the track team as a sophomore. Now a senior and a top pole vaulter in the league, he still hopes to improve this year. With a top height of 10 feet, 3 inches last season, he is going to start additional practices with a trainer who worked with a statebound athlete last year. Eric found a liking for pole vaulting after he and a teammate tried it for fun. “When I started track, I started running, did the 400 . . . Then they bought new pits. It looked like fun. It was fun and I stayed with it,” he remarks. Also noteworthy is freshman Lauren Wells. Lauren’s events are the 100, 200, 400 and 4x100. Her best race is the 100 and is her main focus this year. She hopes to beat her best time of 12.77 seconds. Her four-year goal is to go to the State Meet. But for now, she hopes to make it to NCS, then to the Meet of Champions. She discovered her love of track from a friend who encouraged her to go to practice with her. “I found out I was good at it, and stuck with it,” she says. Before joining the CVHS Eagles, she spent five years with a track and field club team in Pleasant Hill. During the off-

See Track, page B4

Awards given to local kids in Free Throw Championship After winning there, they will compete in the state championships this month. The St. Bonaventure CYO At the awards presentation, basketball program held its there were also awards given to annual awards presentation for the boys’ team and to the girls’ the Knights of Columbus team with the best shooting Championship Free Throw percentage. Competition on Feb. 28. Many kids in the St. The boys and girls, ages 7 to Bonaventure CYO basketball 14, were given awards for hav- program participated in the free ing the most free throw shots shot competition. One notemade in their age groups for St. worthy standout was Jesse Law, Bonaventure. In 12, who has won her addition, special age group four years recognition was in a row. given to two players “It’s pretty excitwho advanced to the ing to have won my state competition. division every year, Ashley Allen and and it makes me Gina DelBene won want to practice even at the district level more to have a and moved onto the chance to win next regional, Oakland year, which will be Diocese competition my last year. That on Feb. 25 at Foothill would be a pretty JESSE LAW Community Gym. cool goal to accomDEANNA MERRIGAN Clayton Pioneer

plish,” says Jesse. “It’s easy to practice when you love the sport. “I love playing and improving year after year. I have a halfcourt at my house, so when I get the chance, I like to go out there with my sister and neighbors and play,” she adds. A brother and sister each won in their respective age group. Ryan and Lexie Wenrich both love playing basketball. Ryan, 13, has been playing for seven years. His sister, Lexie, 11, has been playing for four. Both kids say they “shot hoops” with their friends to get ready for the competition and will continue to play in future seasons. Nicole Dunkley, 13, used other methods to prepare. “I started practicing with my dad every week to get my form down, and then I just went from

See Free Throw, page B4

Deanna Merrigan/Clayton Pioneer

ST. BONAVENTURE’S CYO FREE THROW WINNERS: Front row: Brook Rideau, Paige Alford, Drew Fagerlin , Justin Roper; Middle row: Annemarie Del Bene, Ashley Allen, Jessica Law, Gina Del Bene, Nicole Dunkley, Sara Casey; Back Row: Jack Brown, Brett Rideau, Chris Pfeiffer.

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Clayton Sports

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De La Salle varsity basketball player Ryan Silva is one of the top point guards in Northern California. The 5’10” player from Clayton is one of two seniors on the DLS team. Recently Ryan and his teammates took the BVAL title after an exciting season against some tough competition. “Ryan has led us all the way. He scored 22 points in the first half against Cal High in the North Coast Section semifinals,” said Spartan coach Frank Allocco.

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RYAN SILVA DLS lost the NCS championship game last Saturday to Monte Vista but tries to defend its Northern California title beginning this week. Last season, Silva was a key substitute for a senior-laden team that won the state championship. This year, Silva has taken on the leadership role as the Spartans have won 27 of 29 games entering the NorCal playoffs. For Ryan, basketball is a

DEANNA MERRIGAN Clayton Pioneer

fought game.” Although the Hot Shots

The CYO boys basketball playoffs Feb. 24-25 had parents, players and spectators cheering and celebrating as some St. Bonaventure teams attempted to dribble, shoot and pass their way to victory in the East Diablo CYO League. The St. Bonaventure Hot Shots, the sixth-grade American II team, ended the regular season in second place in the league with a record of 7-3. As they advanced into the playoffs, the Hot Shots needed to beat the third-place team to get one step closer to the championship. The boys played a tough, nail-biting game that went into overtime against Queen of All Saints on Feb. 24. They won that game and were excited to be moving on to the championship game the next day. The Hot Shots took on Immaculate Heart, but in the end, they lost 28-22. “Everyone worked really hard,” says parent Chris Essayan. “It was a hard-

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The Clayton Pioneer spotlights a local youth athlete from our circulation area in the first issue each month. 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 672-6580. Nomination deadline for our April 13 issue is Sunday, April 1.

ST. BONAVENTURE HOT SHOTS: Front Row (L-R) Jacob Falls, Nate Jeans, Matt Oelrich. Middle Row (L-R) Andrew Trimble, Michael Bare, Eric Dunkley, John Moore. Back Row (L-R) Ron Dinoso, Joe Essayan, Brady Formoso. Far Back ( L-R) Coaches: Dave Dunkley, John Moore.

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passion. “I love to play basketball because it involves a competitive fire that I enjoy. I enjoy having 12 “brothers” who I can relate to and spend years of my life with,” Ryan remarks. Ryan was the third leading scorer in the BVAL and has been on the varsity team since his sophomore year. Allocco calls him an outstanding player and competitor. Ryan hopes to continue playing in college. “I want to play college basketball. If not, then I will become a wellrounded human being and enjoy whatever field I plan to study,” he says.

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Favorite subject: English, “because it allows me to free my mind and write with my heart.” Favorite sport: Basketball Favorite athlete: Lance Armstrong Favorite music: All kinds, but especially hip hop for dancing, Christian music, country, rock and rhythm and blues Favorite leisure activities: Dancing and listening to music. “I often take time to myself to think about life, and I spend a lot of time with my friends because I don’t know how much longer I am going to be able to see them.”

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Sports

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Track, from page B2 Before joining the CVHS Eagles, she spent five years with a track and field club team in Pleasant Hill. During the off-season, Lauren did some preconditioning with her coach to prepare herself. For track and field athletes, training, practicing and taking care of their bodies is important as they prepare for upcoming trackmeets. In order to keep in shape and achieve some of the goals they’ve set for themselves, conditioning is key. Stretching is also vital to athletes. For runners, light stretching (upper and lower body) with some easy jogging is a good bet for pre-season conditioning. As

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the students move further into the season, conditioning and drills become essential. “Practice begins with running laps, stretching and plyometric work (leg strength and explosion are key to being a good thrower),” Danny explains. “The coaches spend time talking to us as a group to motivate us through our workout and then we break up into individual events. “Since I am a thrower, I go to the throwing rings and practice my shot put and discus technique. After practice, we go into the weight room three days a week to lift weights (Olympic and power lifting),” Danny adds. Sandoval and Garaventa are proud of the athletes and excited about what is shaping up to be an outstanding season. This is the fourth year Sandoval has been head coach for the girls track team. He came on as a volunteer five years ago. He speaks highly of the track team men and women and calls them his “biggest heroes.” This is Garaventa’s first year as head coach of the boys track team, but he is no stranger to coaching. A Clayton Valley High alum, he has been involved with coaching youth sports for 14 years. He’s coached CVLL baseball, Concord and Mt. Diablo

Sports Shorts MDSL CLASS 1 CYSA NORTH STATE CUP RESULTS Three MDSL Class I soccer teams beat out some tough competition to advance in the CYSA North State Cup tournament. The U11 Girls Storm made the Sweet 16 at State Cup. The U12 Girls Arsenal made it to the Elite 8 in the quarterfinals at State Cup. And the U13 Girls Velocity made it to the top 4 in the semifinals. Congratulations to all three teams. With approximately 70 teams in each age group from throughout Northern California, this was quite an accomplishment for these teams.

DANA HILLS SWIM TEAM OPEN HOUSE AND REGISTRATION Dana Hills Swim Team Open House and Registration Information for new and returning families is Sun., Mar.11, 1- 4 p.m. at the Dana Hills Cabana at 296 Mountaire Circle in Clayton. For more information, visit our website at www.danahillsotters.com or contact Rob Schussman at 672-1714.

DVSC SOCCER TRYOUTS THIS MONTH Additional evaluation of players for Diablo Valley Soccer Club Under 9 through U18 Class 1, Class 3 and Super Y-League boys and girls competitive teams are taking place during March in Concord. Boys and girls born between August 1, 1989 and July 31, 1999 are encouraged to register online at www.dvsc.com or call 925-229-DVSC to schedule a no-cost or obligation player evaluation with the DVSC professional coaching staff. DVSC is rated as one of the Top 25 youth soccer clubs in America, placing teams in the State Cup finals or semi-finals for the past 15 years, winning 11 State cup championships.

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POLE VAULTER, ERIC PICCOLOTTI, is looking to improve on last season’s top height of 10’ 3”. AYSO soccer, and CYO track and basketball. He was assistant track coach for CVHS for the past four years and the freshman football coach for the past three. “I enjoy being around young people, helping them improve

their skills, teaching teamwork, sportsmanship … Helping them develop self-discipline, persistence and determination, qualities that they can use and apply to their lives today and in their future,” he says.

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Free Throw, from page B2 there,” she says. She made a remarkable 13 out of 15 shots but kept herself in check. “It wasn’t that hard. I was just in the zone that day.” One of the younger winners, 8-year-old Justin Roper, was excited to compete. “I do practice shooting a lot during our practices and at home.” He too enjoys basketball. “It is fast and there is a lot of action. Plus, I get to play with a lot of my friends.” Some of the athletes who won awards also participate in other sports. For example, Jesse and her twin sister Haylee both play basketball for their junior high school team at North Creek Academy. When not playing basketball, they both play fast pitch softball. Jesse and Haylee’s mom, Laura Law, is proud of their accomplishments. “I started playing basketball for CYO in the third grade and played through high school. It was my passion, and to watch Jesse take on a love for the game like I had makes me really proud.” This is the 35th year of the Knights of Columbus Championship Free Throw

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Competition. According to Claire Tryon, youth director and FTC chair, many of the eighthgrade competitors have gone on to be stars at Clayton Valley, De La Salle and Carondelet. Five of the CVHS varsity players are former Knights of Columbus Free Throw winners. Below is list of winners and their age groups: BOYS Ryan Redmond . . . . . . .7 Justin Roper . . . . . . . . .8 Benjamin Robinew . . . .8 Drew Fagerlin . . . . . . . .9 Brook Rideau . . . . . . . .9 Jack Brown . . . . . . . . .10 Brett Rideau . . . . . . . .11 Chris Pfeiffer . . . . . . .12 Ryan Wenrich . . . . . . .13 Andrew Riordan . . . . .14 GIRLS Bailey Deshane . . . . . . .8 Paige Alford . . . . . . . . . .9 Annemarie DelBene . .10 Alexa Wenrich . . . . . . .11 Ashley Allen . . . . . . . . .11 Jessica Law . . . . . . . . . .12 Nicole Dunkley . . . . . .13 Gina DelBene . . . . . . .13 Sara Casey . . . . . . . . . .14

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Clearing up your cloud knowledge

Patty Flannery

I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now From up and down, and still somehow It’s cloud illusions I recall I really don’t know clouds at all.

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In my first college calculus class, the professor asked what our majors were. When I said “meteorology,” his reply was: “The most complex calculus equations I’ve ever seen are used to describe thunderstorm cloud development.” I remember thinking of that Joni Mitchell song and saying to myself: “I really don’t know clouds at all,” followed by: “What am I getting myself into?” Fortunately, understanding the basics about clouds doesn’t take any knowledge of calculus. The dictionary definition of a cloud is “a visible body of very fine water droplets or ice particles suspended in the atmosphere at altitudes ranging up to several miles above sea level.” We are all familiar with the names used for various types of clouds: cirrus, stratus and cumulus. Many people assume these cloud names have an ancient origin, but in fact the names were not defined until the early 1800s. An English pharmacist named Luke Howard is credited with developing the cloud classification system now in use. As

WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS mations he observed. When he developed his classification system, he leaned on his knowledge of Latin to describe the basic cloud types. Cirrus (Latin for “curl of hair”) is the name chosen for the thin, wispy clouds found high in the skies. Cirrus clouds are made up of ice crystals and are often white in color. Typically, they do not completely block out the sun. Stratus (Latin for “layered”) are uniform, thick clouds made up of water droplets. Stratus clouds are found at any level of the lower atmosphere and are usually thick enough to block out the sun. They are most often gray in color. Cumulus (Latin for “heap”) are puffy, vertically developed clouds. Individual cumulus

clouds usually have a flat base and cauliflower-like tops. Cumulus clouds are typically made up of water vapor, but if the tops extend high enough they can contain ice crystals. If the cumulus clouds are white and widely scattered in the sky, fair weather is associated with their presence. However, some of the most severe weather on the planet, thunderstorms and tornados, are associated with clusters of cumulus clouds that are dark gray in color and extend to the top of the lower atmosphere. Howard added a fourth cloud type, nimbus (Latin for “rain”), to denote clouds that produce precipitation. Nimbostratus and cumulo-nimbus clouds are the two most often observed rain-producing cloud forms. Typically, showers and steady light to moderate rainfall are associated with layered nimbostratus clouds, while heavy rains and hail fall from tall cumulonimbus clouds. Howard’s classification system became widely used and by time it was adopted as the international standard, height designations were given to various cloud types. For example, the prefix “cirro” defines clouds with bases above 20,000 feet. The prefix “alto” was given to clouds with bases between 6,000 and 20,000 feet, and “strato” describes clouds with bases below 6,000 feet.

Winter and spring are great cloud watching seasons in the Clayton area. Before a storm approaches, high layered clouds called cirro-stratus are often observed. When the storm gets closer, low level, flat based clouds with puffy tops called strato-cumulus clouds cover the sky. Once rain finally begins to fall, dark vertically developed cumulo-nimbus clouds are observed. After the rains end, skies begin to clear but a few small mid-level clouds called altocumulus clouds may develop, especially in hilly areas. A few days after a storm, tule fog may form in the coastal and interior valley areas. This is actually a form of stratus, but when the cloud base is at the surface it is referred to as fog. These are just a few examples from the dozens of cloud types that have been identified. If you want to explore the world of clouds further, there are many online photographs and cloud type descriptions published by professional and amateur meteorologists and photographers. Just type the words “cloud types” or “cloud pictures” in any Internet search engine. You will very likely enjoy looking at clouds from both sides now. Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

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It doesn’t pay to take lump-sum distribution from retirement plan The biggest check you could ever get from your employer is one you should turn down. When you retire, quit, or are laid off or fired, you can take the funds in your retirement plan in a single check called a lump-sum distribution. If you lose your job, it may be tempting to take the check, but consider the consequences:

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Your retirement savings will no longer be able to grow on a tax-deferred basis. The entire amount will be subject to federal and state income taxes in the first year of the lump-sum distribution. Because you are receiving all of your retirement savings in a single check, it is likely to bump you into a higher tax bracket. Your employer is required by law to withhold 20 percent of the funds. Your funds may be subject to a 10 percent early withdrawal penalty. If you spend the money, it’s unlikely you will have sufficient funds for when you retire.

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retirement savings, allow your savings to continue growing on a tax-deferred basis and keep you from paying penalties. If you are laid off, quit or are fired, your former employer may be willing to hold your funds until you find new employment. Then, you can transfer your funds to a new plan without consequence. You can also continue the deferred tax advantages of a qualified plan and avoid penalties when you take out and receive a lump-sum distribution by re-investing the funds in an IRA or another employer’s qualified plan within 60 days. However, your former employer will still withhold 20 percent of your retirement savings. That amount would be treated as a distribution, which would be subject to income taxes and possibly penalties. By rolling over your funds directly from your qualified plan into another qualified retirement plan or IRA, your retirement savings can continue to grow on a tax-deferred basis. Because no taxes are due until funds are distributed, earnings can continue to grow on a compounded basis – which can significantly increase their value over time. In addition, when funds are taxed, they may be taxed at a lower rate than they would be

today, since most people are in a lower tax bracket after they retire. Employees working for non-profit organizations typically have a 403(b) retirement plan. Those who work for a government agency usually have funds in a 457(b) plan, and those working in the private sector often have their retirement savings in a 401(k) plan. Funds can be transferred between any of these plans when employees change jobs. However, transferring funds to a rollover IRA will give you greater control over your investments. You can invest your IRA funds in any of the thousands of mutual funds that are available, stocks and bonds, exchange traded funds (ETFs) and other investments. Retirement plans sponsored by employers typically offer only a limited number of investment options. A rollover IRA is easy to set up and administer. Since employees generally change jobs frequently today, you may have several different jobs, and several different retirement plans, before you retire. If you have a rollover IRA, you can transfer funds from any number of plans into a single account. Transferring funds from one employer-sponsored plan to another is typically more diffi-

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FINANCIAL SENSE cult. Regardless of which rollover option is chosen, however, a rollover will yield tax and savings advantages over a lumpsum distribution.

Allen Lampo is a registered representative for John Hancock Financial Network and has been a resident of Clayton for 10 years. If you have any comments or questions, call him at 681-4438 or email alampo@jhnetwork.com. This material is for informational purposes only. Although many of the topics presented may involve tax, legal, accounting or other issues, neither John Hancock Life Insurance Co. and its affiliated companies, nor any of its agents, employees or registered representatives are in the business of offering such advice. Individuals interested in these topics should consult with their own professional advisors to examine tax, legal, accounting or financial planning aspects of these topics.

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Last November the AAFP, The American Association of Feline Practitioners, published their report. These guidelines discussed in depth feline vaccines and how best to administer to avoid the risk of cancer formation post vaccination. Ten to fifteen years ago veterinarians began to note cats developing cancer at sites of vaccination. In those days we gave most vaccines over the shoulders except for rabies, which was given in the muscle of the right hind leg. This cancer, fibrosarcoma, affects the fibrous connective tissue. Normally, when a vaccine is given we rely on the immune system to mount some form of inflammation in order to develop immunity. Vaccine manufactures have added adjutants to enhance the inflammatory response and to extend out the time of immunity ranging from 1 to 3 years. Some cats have immune systems which respond

more aggressively than others. Within weeks they can develop a lump at the injection site, which is often sore to the touch. It is thought that with time this inflammation stimulates cancer within the fibrous cells of connective tissue. Connective tissue consists of tendrils engulfing and moving deeply into and around muscles, nerves, vessels and bones. The cancer follows these pathways making it very difficult to fully remove surgically. This also makes it very likely that there will be reoccurrence after surgery. The cancer enlarges over months, ulcerating and infecting. Eventually the cat becomes so debilitated that euthanasia becomes a kind decision. Proper early intervention combining both surgery and radiation treatment is needed to avoid this tragic outcome. In order to prevent fibrosarcoma the AAFP has advised the following guidelines. Give only the necessary vaccines. The three core vaccines include FVRCP, Rabies and FeLV. The FVRCP is a threeway vaccine, which includes viral rhinotrachitis, calici and panleukopenia viruses. The first two cause upper respiratory infections. Panleukopenia, or the decrease in all white blood cells, is rarely seen but causes death secondary to severe diarrhea and vomiting.

It is recommended that all cats receive rabies because of human exposure, especially in endemic areas such as Contra Costa County. Rabies affects the nervous system causing death. FeLV, Feline Leukemia, causes both cancer and immune suppression. This vaccine should be given to all kittens through the age of 3 to 4 years. After which, if they are indoors and have no exposure to other cats this vaccine can be discontinued. Both FVRCP and Rabies are threeyear vaccines. FeLV is a one-year vaccine. Other vaccines for giardia, ringworm, Chlamydia, Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are only considered during outbreaks in cattery situations. Vaccines should be chosen according to the lack of inflammation created as well as proper immunity stimulated. Non-adjuvanted vaccines generally cause little to no inflammation and are the vaccine of choice. Presently there is a non-adjuvanted rabies vaccine given yearly instead of the adjuvanted three-year vaccine. FeLV can now be given transdermally with a Star Trek type of device used for injection. Ask your veterinarian which vaccines he/she is using. The AAFP recommends vaccines are given subcutaneously with each of the core vaccines in separate locations. The FVRCP is placed below the

right elbow, the FeLV below the left knee and the rabies below the right knee. Or it is safe to use the FeLV transdermal injection over the left hip. Avoiding multiple vaccines in one location cuts down on inflammation. By giving the vaccines low on the legs, if a tumor does develop it can be completely removed by amputation of the leg. Also specific locations help us know which vaccine is at fault. If you discover a mass at your cat’s vaccine site contact your veterinarian who will consider a biopsy if one of these three criteria apply: 1) If the mass is present three months after vaccination; 2) if the mass is greater than two centimeters; 3) if the mass is increasing in size after one month. A biopsy is taken to identify the type of cells prior to full surgical removal. If the mass is fibrosarcoma then your veterinarian will refer you to an oncologist. Further recommendations may include a CT scan to map the extent of the mass followed by surgery and possible radiation therapy. Once a cat has had a history of fibrosarcoma it is safer to not give any more vaccines. This cat should be kept inside to decrease the risk of contracting contagious diseases.

Noon to 4:30 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Visit www.arf.net or call (925) 256-1ARF for more information. 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.arf.net, or call (925) 2561ARF.

MASTER GEE

Lizzie is a gentle mellow sweetheart who loves having her chin and head rubbed. She likes the company of other cats and has lived with others before. Lizzie came to ARF after her owner passed away and would love to find another loving lap to call her own. The adoption fee for Lizzie is $100. Come fall in love with Lizzie and her fabulous feline friends at ARF. Visit

www.arf.net, to learn more about adding a cat to your family, or call (925) 256-1ARF. Master Gee is an extremely intelligent dog who loves people and most other friendly dogs, walks nicely on leash and knows sit and down. His foster says “Master Gee is very affectionate and sweet. He loves to curl up with his family and seems gentle with kids. He is great with the other dogs and

shares his toys with them.” Could this bright and affectionate lab mix be the perfect match for your family? The adoption fee for Master Gee is $200 and includes the first six training courses. Bring everyone who will live with Lizzie or Master Gee to meet them at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 3 to 7 p.m. Thur. and Fri.,

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March 9, 2007

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Church News Lutheran Church is at 5554 Clayton Rd., 1B., Concord. For more information, call 524-0295 or visit www.EternalLifeLutheranChurc h.org. CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH The church invites all to a Maundy Thursday service at 7 p.m. April 5. Twenty churches from across the valley will celebrate at the Communion Service in the gym at Diablo View Middle School. The church will celebrate Easter at 9 and 10:45 a.m. April 8 at the school. For more information, call 673-9060.

Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church 925-672-4848 1578 Kirker Pass Road Mission Statement to

Patricia Stout, Pastor

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MEMBERS

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CUMC

CHOIR

show off the local papers in front of Carnegie Hall.

CONCORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH The CUMC choir participated in a concert at Carnegie Hall on Feb. 11, along with choirs from Nevada, Oregon and Washington state. Duane Karna, assistant professor of music and director of choral activities at the University of Nevada, Reno, conducted the chorus along with the New England Symphonic Ensemble. Soprano Evelyn Pollock was the soloist. The group performed Mozart’s Regina Coeli K 108 and K 127. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church will have a special musical service with dramatic readings and scripture leading us from “Palms to Passion” on

Palm Sunday, April 1. Pastor Patricia Stout, children and lay readers will be readers as scripture and music takes us from the triumphant entrance into Jerusalem to the cross. Our 26+ member adult choir, led by choir director, Christian Emigh, will perform selections by Mary Lynn Lightfoot, Craig Courtney, Dale Wood and Joseph Martin. The sacrament of Holy Communion will also be observed. The public is invited to this very special service at 10:30 am Sunday, April 1. Easter Sunday will find us on the mountain for a 6am Sunrise Service at Diablo Valley Ranch. Dress warmly and comfortably. Refreshments will be available

as well. Our regular Easter morning worship will be celebrated at 10:30 am with full choir and a brass quartet. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church is located at 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. For more information call 672-4848. ETERNAL LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH The church will have two more midweek Lenten services, on March 14 and 28. Services begin at 7:15 p.m., preceded by soup suppers at 6 p.m. This year’s Lenten theme is “Behold the Hidden Glory of the Cross.” Sunday School and Bible Study is at 10 a.m., with worship at 11:15 a.m. Eternal Life

CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH A Maundy Thursday Seder meal and communion will be held at 6 p.m. April 5. Good Friday service will be at noon April 6. Services on Easter Sunday, April 8, will be at 6:30 and 10:30 a.m. The Youth Group meets 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays. A Women’s Support Group is held at 7 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays. A Women’s Bible study is at 2 p.m. the second Tuesday and at 7 p.m. the second Wednesday. The Men’s Discussion Group meets at 8 a.m. Friday. Sunday services are at 10:30 a.m., with Sunday school and child care provided. The church is at 1578 Kirker Pass Road. For more information, call 6724848.

park’s boundaries. Since the park is located literally one block away from a friend whom we visited during our trip, I felt fortunate to have the wonderland of nature right at my fingertips. We invaded yet another temporary base camp to help explore various parts of Seattle.

Hikers, from page B1

Member of WELS (Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod)

for military purposes, this 702acre park has all the outdoor enthusiast seeks. A few things that make this such a great park include lush green forests with more than 17 miles of hiking and biking trails and Owen Beach, complete with fantastic views of Vashon Island, waterfront picnic areas and pristine shoreline. Without a doubt, my personal favorite was Five Mile Drive. It takes you through old-growth forests and along vistas overlooking Puget Sound, the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, the Tacoma Narrows Bridges and much more. Cars are very popular along this stretch of road, but the best way to see it is on bicycle. A trip through this park wouldn’t be complete without visiting Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium (PDZA). The zoo is more than 100 years old, and the variety of wildlife had my camera working overtime. Monkeys, tigers, elephants, polar bears, walruses and even a

whale were just a few of the animals that kept my son J.T. in close proximity to dear old Dad’s pant leg. With two aquariums, Artic and Asian exhibits, a play and exploration area for children, and an outdoor theater, you can see why this is such a familyfriendly place. I have barely touched the tip of the iceberg regarding all this park has to offer. My guess is that it would take three to four days to see every nook and cranny. Fort Nisqually, the Boathouse Marina, Camp 6 Logging Museum, acres of gardens and even a duck pond make this park a must-visit attraction. DISCOVERY PARK If you are searching for the biggest park in Seattle, look no further. This 534-acre park is sure to meet all your criteria of what a park should be. Discovery Park is located on Magnolia Bluff overlooking Puget Sound, and like Point

OTHER PLACES WORTH EXPLORING With a limited amount of time, we obviously could not visit every sight and Photos by Kevin Parker attraction, but here FOUNTAIN AT DUCK POND, POINT are a few more to put DEFIANCE on your list: The Space Needle, Mt. Defiance, it offers views of the Cascade and Olympic moun- Rainier, Olympic National Park, North Cascades National Park, tains. If open space is your goal, Pike Place Market, Seattle the park is sure not to disap- Aquarium, Pioneer Square and point. Tidal beaches, cliffs, Experience Music Museum. Enjoy! dunes, forest groves, meadows and streams all come together to For more information on this hike or provide a sense of tranquility as you pass through any one of the other outdoor experiences, contact Kevin wide open areas within the at hiker@claytonpioneer.com.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 9, 2007

Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., MAR. 14 FOR THE MAR. 23 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT MAR. 9, 10 Assistance League Diablo Valley Wayside Inn Thrift Shop Sale in Lafayette Fortieth Anniversary Sale. Fri, all merchandise $2 or more is half price. Sat, fill a bag for $5. Spring merchandise arrives Mar.13. Wayside Inn Thrift Shop and Costume Rental, 3521 Golden Gate Way, Lafayette, 284-4781 MAR. 14, 21, 28 Traveling through Musical History class @ Diamond Terrace 11:45a.m. Stephanie Luedtke from the Mt. Diablo Adult Education will be here to present a program on the history and origin of music through the centuries. There will be a lecture, music and discussion. All are welcome to attend. Diamond Terrace Retirement Community, 6401 Center Street, Clayton. MAR. 15 Buchanan Field Airport Community Meeting @ Crowne Plaza Hotel, Concord 7 p.m. Community meeting on the master plan being prepared for the airport. Part 150 (noise study) Issues/Actions and Recommendations. For more information please call Beth lee at (925) 646-5722. Crowne Plaza Hotel 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord. MAR. 16 - APRIL 1 A Bright Room Called Day by Tony Kushner @ Diablo Valley College Set in the last days of the Germany's Weimar Republic, the play follows a group of artists and activists as they watch their country gradually descend into the Third Reich. Bright Room charts the ascension of the Nazi party through the seemingly insulated life in middle-class living rooms, illustrating what happens when intelligent people sit by idly during times of crisis. Tickets $10 - $13. Call box office at 687-4445, Diablo Valley College, Performing Arts Center, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. MARCH 17 Early Spring Plant Sale @ the Markham Garden Center 10 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Available now is a large selection of California natives and named varieties of daylilies. Markham has gift certificates available for purchase. Markham Arboretum and Nature Center, 1202 La Vista Ave, Concord, (925) 681-2968. markham.arboretum@gmail.com MAR. 20 Hawaiian Luau @ Diamond Terrace. 2:15p.m. We will have Polynesian dancers, music, food and fun. Come on by and don't forget to wear your lei! Diamond Terrace Retirement Community, 6401 Center Street, Clayton. MAR. 21 Who Was John Marsh? @ Clayton Community Library 7 p.m. Bob Gromm, a member of the John Marsh Historic Trust, will present a history of John Marsh and the Marsh House. John Marsh was an important pioneer of Contra Costa County. Spend an evening learning about local history. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, 6730659. MAR. 23, 24 Diablo Ballet's 13th Anniversary Celebration @ Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek 8 p.m. World premiere of Remembering Hamlet by Viktor Kabaniaev; the Pas De Deux from George Balanchine's Stars and Stripes, Grand Pas D'Action by Nikolai Kabaniaev and Kelly Teo's Dancing Miles. Tickets are $35 and $40. Purchase online at www.DLRCA.org or call 925.943.SHOW (7469). Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, CA MAR. 24 5th Annual Brady Bunch Dinner ALS Assoc. Benefit @ Elks Lodge, Walnut Creek 6:00 p.m. Annual spaghetti dinner to benefit ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) patients and their families. DJ, win a cruise to Mexico, silent auction and raffle. Moving one step closer to curing this devastating disease - together we do make a difference. Cost is $25.00. For tickets or info call or email 925-672-7249, info@bradybunch4als.com www.bradybunch4als.com and/or www.alsabayarea.org. Elks Lodge 1475 Creekside Dr. Walnut Creek. MAR. 27 - MAY 8 Patty Cakes Story Time @ Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. Tuesdays. Story time for babies - 3 yr olds. No registration necessary. 673-0659. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. MAR. 29 - MAY 3 Picture Book Time @ Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. Thursdays. Story time for 3 - 5 yr olds. No registration necessary. 673-0659. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. MAR. 31 Scottish Highlands, Concord Hilton Annual Spring Fling. Festivities begin at 5:30 with cocktails and silent auction. Dinner at 7. Scottish dancers and music, bagpipers, a Sword Dance. All proceeds benefit Rotary community service projects. For ticket information, call Paul Allen, (925) 258-0502. APR. 1 Annual Clayton Easter Egg Hunt and BBQ @ Clayton YMCA field 12 - 2 p.m. This is a free event open to the community for kids Pre K thru 3rd grade. There will be an Easter egg hunt, BBQ, raffle, inflatable bounce house and other fun games. The Easter Bunny may be present for pictures

too - come out and see (rain or shine). Call the YMCA for information at 889-1600.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS MAR. 11 Concord Chocolate Festival @ Crowne Plaza Hotel 1-5 p.m. Presented by Grand Avenue Fine Chocolates and the Concord Chamber of Commerce. Visit www.concordchocolatefestival.com for more information. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord. MAR. 11, 18, 25 Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting @ Clayton Community Church 7 - 8 p.m. AA Big Book Study, every Sunday night in the meeting room at Clayton Community Church, 6055 Main Street, Clayton, 673-9060. Mar. 11 Concord Mystery Book Club @ Concord Library 2:30 - 4 p.m. All mystery readers are invited to participate and explore a different genre each month. Group meets the second Sun. of the month. Concord Library, 2900 Salvio Street, Concord, 646-5455. MAR. 12 Clayton Valley 4-H Club @ Farm Bureau Hall 7:15 p.m. 4-H is open to youth ages 5 - 19 and adults. Projects in small and large animals, leadership, community service, 4-H camp, conferences and fairs. Learn new skills including cooking, photography, arts/crafts etc. Contact Candy Hogan at 925- 969-1325 for more information. Meetings held on the second Mon. of the month Sept. - June. Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Rd. Concord. MAR. 12 Stroke Support Group @ John Muir Concord Campus 7 - 9 p.m. Speaking will be Linda Thaxter from Nightingale Home Care on the topic entitled "How Humor Reduces Stress." For more information, contact Ann Dzuna at 925-376-6218. Meetings are free and open to the public. John Muir Medical Center-Concord Campus, 2540 East Avenue, Concord Room, Concord. MAR. 13 Concord Chamber of Commerce Luncheon @ Crowne Plaza Hotel, Concord Mark Westwind of Small Business Development Center is the speaker talking about website development. Register online at www.concordchamber.com lunch is $25 for members and $35 for non members. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord. MAR.13, 20, 27 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. MAR. 13, 27 Clayton Valley Woman's Club @ Holy Cross Lutheran Church 9:30 a.m. Regular monthly business meeting starts with coffee; the meeting begins at 10 a.m. CVWC is a non-profit, non-denominational service organization that is open to all women interested in charitable work in the Clayton Valley community. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Tues. of the month. For more information, please call Joyce at 672-3850 or Sheila at 672-7947. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. MAR. 14 Meeting of the Creekside Artists @ Clayton Community Library 7p.m. Join this unique group of eclectic artists that meet the 2nd Wednesday of each month. If you like, bring your artwork for review...all levels and all artforms are welcome! "We provide an environment for all artists to inspire, create, educate and prosper." Questions? Arlene KikkawaNielsen (925) 673-9777or akikkawa@ccclib.org. MAR. 14 Clayton Valley Garden Club @ Diamond Terrace 7 p.m. The Clayton Valley Garden Club meets the second Wed. of the month. This month, Clayton Garden Girl, Nicole Hackett, of R & M Pool Patio & Gardens will introduce new and exciting plants for the Clayton garden. The Club maintains the flowers on Daffodil Hill, the planters on Main and Center Streets, and the raised garden beds at the Library, and other civic projects. Anyone interested in gardening is welcome at our meetings. Call Jeff at 672-7579 or Barry at 827-9540 for information. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center Street, Clayton. MAR. 15 Concord Chamber of Commerce Business after Hours Mixer @ Oakhurst Country Club 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Business after hours mixer. Visit www.concordchamber.com for details and directions. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. Mar. 15 Veterans of Foreign Wars Meeting @ Veterans Memorial Hall, Concord 6 p.m. Meeting begins. at 7 p.m. VFW meets the third Thurs. of the month. All Veterans of foreign wars are invited to attend. The VFW is here to support eligible Veterans and their families. Wives and daughters of eligible Veterans are invited to join the Ladies Auxiliary. Meetings are held at Veterans Memorial Hall, corner of Colfax and Willow Pass Road, Concord.

MAR. 15, 22, 29 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau 10 a.m.and 5:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in and meetings on Thurs. 800-326-8450 x 2023. Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. MAR. 21 Ygnacio Valley Republican Women @ Oakhurst County Club. 6 p.m. It will be a dinner meeting and the cost is $22.00. Please phone Barbara Allen at 672-5061. YVRW meets the 3rd Wed. of the month. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. MAR. 22 League of Women Voters Meeting @ Ygnacio Valley Library 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. The speaker is Steve Weir, County Clerk, who will discuss the effects of changing the date of the primary and the future of mail-only elections. Weir will be available to answer your questions. Call (925) 9381481 for directions. For further information or for carpooling please call the League office at (925) 283-2235. Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Rd, Walnut Creek. MAR. 28 Blue Star Mom Meeting in Concord 6:30 p.m. Small group Blue Star Mom meetings held the fourth Wed. 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. APR. 1 Knitting Club @ Concord Library 2 - 4 p.m. Have you noticed that knitting is all the rage? Join the group and get creative. Club meets the first Sun. of the month. 646-5455, Concord Library, 2900 Salvio Street, Concord. APR. 3 Knights of Columbus @ St. Agnes Church Hall 7:30 p.m. General membership meeting of the Knights of Columbus Concord Council 6038 of Concord and Clayton is the first Tues. of the month. We look forward to seeing our brother Knights there. St. Agnes Church, 3478 Chestnut Street, Concord. APR. 4 Hearing Loss Assoc. of America @ Walnut Creek Methodist Church 7:30 p.m. We meet on the first Wed. of the month. Contact Bob at shhhbob@sbcglobal.net with questions. Walnut Creek Methodist Church, Education Building in the rear parking lot at 1543 Sunnyvale Avenue, Walnut Creek.

BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT MAR. 13, 20, 27 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tues. mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. MAR. 13, 27 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd and 4th Tues. of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. MAR. 20 Clayton City Council Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City Council meets on the first and third Tues. of the month. Open to the public. Agendas posted at City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton. MAR. 29 CBCA (Clayton Business & Community Association) Meeting @ Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting, last non-holiday Thurs. of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon prior, 672-2272. Mike Fossan, President. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.

SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION MAR. 14 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Diablo View Middle School 7 p.m. Meeting to be held in the school library. All parents welcome. Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. MAR. 20 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Mt. Diablo Elementary 7:00 p.m., Multi Use Room. Make a difference in your child's education. For items to be included on the agenda, contact Stacey Wickware 673-1999, the5wicks@sbcglobal.net or Kristy Smith 673-1795, kristinsmith@yahoo.com, PFC Co-Presidents. Childcare is available. Watch website for details. http://www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/mountdiabloelementary/. APR. 5 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @Clayton Valley High School 7:00 p.m. If you show your child that you care about their school, your child will care too. Together we can make a difference! The meeting will be held in the school library. Clayton Valley High School, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord

MAR. 15, 22, 29 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thurs. for breakfast and usually features a speaker. www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B9

Retired teacher still counting her blessings juggled both with raising her son and daughter. “Fortunately, I had a marvelous neighbor who helped out with my children,” says Mary. “I was lucky at the time, you see, as out of everything bad comes something good.” Mary finished her master’s degree two years later and got a full-time teaching position at Laney College in Oakland in 1964. “I really, really loved teaching math. So much so that I didn’t ‘hang up my hat’ until May 2002, so I haven’t been fully retired for very long,” says a smiling Mary. Her passion included being on the college’s Faculty Senate and attending district-wide groups to discuss academic issues. Mary then became district Senate president for two years and later was elected to the state Academic Senate, which consisted of representatives from each of the colleges throughout California meeting together. In addition, she served on several chancellor committees, where she and others on the panel had a lot of

COLLEEN ELWY

SHARING HISTORY Embraced in a career of teaching mathematics for more than 45 years, Mary Carter Smith welcomes all that has come into her life as gifts along the way. At 74, Mary’s soft voice and smile still shine as she speaks about where her history has brought her today. “I was on my own with two small children by the time I was in my late 20s, when my husband divorced me,” Mary shares. “I spent a week feeling sorry for myself and realized I needed to do something about it.” With her bachelor’s degree in math from UC Berkeley, Mary was already in a 20-hour a week job as a research assistant in educational statistics. She added a part time teaching job at Diablo Valley College and

influence on decisions. “I was always picking up little gems in my professional life,” states Mary, “ and the most rewarding part of it all was meeting so many different people statewide.” With the backing of the assistant dean at Laney College, Mary started “Math MAP” (Mandatory Advisement Program). Before enrolling, every student taking math classes there was advised to meet with someone in the program Mary established. With student workers, the incoming student would be tested and placed in appropriate level math classes. “We had far less failing grades and withdraws from math and science after I put that program together,” Mary says proudly. Mary began teaching part time in 1993 and continued until 2002. That’s where another gift is shared about Mary’s life. “When my daughter was an infant, one day I was at the front door of our house and a cat just came walking in the door,” says Mary. “I became

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ACROSS 1- Figure (out) 5- Adapted to dry environment 10- Creamy-beige color 14- Hammock holder 15- Sports area 16- Amphibian 17- As previously given, in footnotes 18- Simpleton 19- Thwart 20- Cud chewing animals 22- Humble 23- Tacit assent 24- Golden, in France 25- Winged horse 29- Unlawfull liquor 33- Torment 34- Bloody conflicts 36- Capital of Fiji 37- Mined mineral 38- Heaps 39- 19th Greek letter 40- Driving aids 42- Second hand, took advantage of 43- Snow conveyances 45- Peculiarity 47- Uncovers 49- Exclamation of disgust 50- Acknowledgment of debt 51- Idealized concept of a loved one 54- Emotional burden 60- Sturdy wool fiber 61- King of Troy 62- Fall 63- Indigo 64- Long arm 65- Relaxation 66- Hawaiian goose 67- Like granola 68- Gradual

DOWN 1- Agitate 2- Language of Pakistan 3- Appear

Whether buying, selling or refinancing when you’re calling this number, you’re calling the right number Linda Miller Realtor, Loan Consultant

5354 Clayton Rd, Suites B1 & B2, Concord phone: (925) 765-4765 673-9737 ll fax: (925) 798-2100 email: email: lmiller@homequity.us lmiller@homequity.us ll www.homequity.us www.homequity.us

fond of that cat and others over many years and when I retired, I was very involved with Community Concerns for Cats and the Feral Cat Foundation.” Mary pulls out countless photos of the beautiful cats whom she has loved and nurtured over the years. She seems most proud of the 480 sq. ft. cat room and walkway tunnel

connecting to the house that was built for them at her Morgan Territory home, where she lived for 32 years. Mary laughs while skimming through the photos. “A friend of mine would tease me and say that when she was down and out, she was going to come ring my doorbell and ‘meow’ at my front door.”

If you are a senior living in Clayton, or know of a senior that would like to share their life story with the Clayton Pioneer readers, please contact Colleen Elwy at 672-9565 or at colleensbyline@aol.com.

Crossword Puzzle

GREAT CURB APPEAL 3 Bedroom, 1 Bath, 1,346 sq.ft. Craftsman built home. Spacious living room and dining room, built-in

Jill Bedecarre/Clayton Pioneer

MARY CARTER SMITH with a favorite feline at her home on Morgan Territory Road in 2004.

Certainly Mr. Wonderful, Cleopatra and Sir Purr have all had a great impact on Mary’s life. When she became ill in 2005, her 13 cats were taken to the Animal Sanctuary in Utah. Mary gets weekly reports on them. She is no longer able to be involved in the cat organizations but encourages others to help by providing foster care for animals. Mary now takes pleasure in the activities at Diamond Terrace and the people there. “I grew up in San Francisco and eventually made it out here to Clayton and the country. I raised a family and did teaching and enjoyed all my days doing that,” says Mary. It surely wouldn’t surprise anyone to know that Mary has truly been a gift to many others over the years.

4- School session 5- Place of contentment 6- "___ Brockovich" 7- Hire 8- Hostelries 9- Small low island 10- Endeavors 11- Black bird 12- Irritate 13- Unattractive 21- Prying 22- John in England 24- Improvised bed 25- Pic 26- Like some seals 27- Avarice 28- From Bern, say 29- Plait, old-style 30- Old stringed instruments 31- Sidestep, circumvent 32- Unit of magnetic field strength 35- Beer 38- Thrust 41- Cuddle 43- Small blemish 44- Roman Catholic shrine 46- Self-esteem 48- Chinese island 51- Teheran's country 52- Long luxuriant hair 53- Not fer

54- La Scala solo 55- Hoist 56- Bundle 57- Word that can precede hygiene, tradition and

agreement. 58- Indifferent 59- Gush 61- In favor of

Solution for 2/23 Crossword


Page B10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

The greening of St. Patrick

LINDA WYNER

FOOD

FOR

THOUGHT

We Americans look for any excuse to celebrate, and St. Patty’s day is no exception. We dye the Chicago River green. We quaff green beer by the gallon, parade down Main Street USA while “wearing the green,” and stuff ourselves silly on corned beef and cabbage. Wait a minute. Corned beef ? That’s not an Irish dish. There’s actually very little about the American version of the Feast of St. Patrick that holds to Irish tradition. St. Patrick was born a pagan in England in the 5th century. He was sold into slavery by Irish marauders but managed to escape a few years later and went to a monastery. He eventually moved to Ireland, where for 30 years he devoted his life to converting the Celts to Christianity by establishing schools, churches and monasteries. He died on March 17,

which ever since has been commemorated as his feast day. Since the feast day is a religious occasion, the Catholic Church permitted Irish households to suspend their Lenten fasts and lifted the proscription against eating meat. While cabbage would be the main part of the dish, it was generally served with some cured pork such as bacon or cribeens (pork trotters, also known as pig’s feet). Some of our St. Patrick’s Day traditions have been exported back to Ireland, and it’s no longer uncommon to see corned beef on the feast table there. Beef was a precious commodity in old Ireland and generally reserved for the well-todo. Jewish immigrants most likely introduced IrishAmericans to corned beef about 100 years ago. It is a practical way to preserve meat when no refrigeration is available. “Corning” meat has nothing to do with corn. Rather it refers to the old Anglo-Saxon method of dry-curing meat in corns (pellets) of salt. The salt preserved the meat and kept it from spoiling. Today, most corned beef is brined in a salt-laden liquid with other spices like bay leaf, peppercorns and mustard seed. Every cook uses his or her own variation of spices. To give a nod to the Irish culinary customs, you might want to add soda bread, a cabbage dish and a signature dessert to your St. Patty’s Day spread.

GUINNESS CAKE 4 Tbsp. butter 1½ c. golden brown sugar 4 eggs 1 Tbsp. orange zest 2 c. flour 1½ tsp. baking powder Pinch salt 2 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa ½ c. Guinness stout* Preheat oven to 350. Prepare bundt pan or 9x13 baking dish with baker’s spray (or Pam and a light dusting of flour). Cream butter and sugar together. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until smooth and creamy. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, cocoa and zest. Add alternatively with stout to butter mixture. Pour into baking mold or dish. Bake for one hour. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream. *The cook should enjoy the leftover stout after getting the cake in the oven. IRISH SODA BREAD (Also known as baxtable bread because it was traditionally baked in a cast iron pot called a baxtable) 4 c. flour 1 Tbsp. salt ¾ tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1½ to 2 c. buttermilk ½ c. raisins (optional) Preheat oven to 375. Mix together flour, salt, baking powder and baking soda. (Add raisins at this point if you want to include them.) Add enough butter milk (start with 1 cup) to make soft, kneadable dough. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead 10

times. Shape into a round loaf and place on greased baking sheet. Cut a large cross on the top of the loaf with sharp knife. Bake 35 to 40 minutes. Loaf should sound “hollow” when tapped. Cool on a rack. COLCANNON 6 to 8 waxy potatoes (red or white rose) 5 c. shredded cabbage ½ to 1 c. milk, warmed ¼ c. butter ½ c. chopped green onions or leeks ½ c. chopped flat parsley Salt and pepper to taste

Cook cabbage in salted water for 6-8 minutes or until tender. Drain, reserving liquid. Peel and quarter potatoes to yield 6 cups. Simmer in reserved liquid until tender. Drain. Mash potatoes with butter. Add enough warmed milk to make smooth and creamy. Add cabbage, onions or leeks, and parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste. To close, here is an Irish blessing: May the road rise to meet you May the wind always be at your back And may God hold you in the palm of his hand. Linda Wyner is an accomplished chef and “foodie.” She recently opened her Pans on Fire kitchen store in Pleasanton and the cooking school will open soon. Watch the Pioneer for details. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com

March 9, 2007

Book Review

Bygone circus days fill pages of ‘Elephants’ What do a circus, an ele- he made and defended, and phant, a beautiful trick-rider the animals he tended, espeand a soon-to-be veterinarian cially Rosie the elephant. have in common? Love. Rosie and Jacob have a With “Water for special bond, and Gruen’s Elephants,” Sara Gruen has vivid close-ups of elephant written a fast-paced romantic behavior make us see these novel of the 1930s that is not animal giants in an engaging to be missed. new light. Gruen begins her story The small, fly-by-night cirwith protagonist Jacob cuses that dotted America’s Jankowski at age 90+. She landscape from the end of the moves us effortlessly between 19th century through the Jacob’s incredibly barren depression years of the 20th wheelchair exisare up and runtence in an ning in “Water assisted living for Elephants.” facility and Gruen has memories of his placed herself circus life, which and the reader began with the in the center of death of his parthe big top. ents when he I’d bet my was 23. last bag of Gruen’s charroasted peanuts acterization of that you’ll SUNNY SOLOMON agree, this story Jacob at the end of his life, in the THE BOOK LADY is worth the assisted living price of admisfacility, is nothsion. ing short of spectacular. Those who have any familiariSunny Solomon holds an MA ty with such facilities will be in English and Creative Writing painfully touched by the clari- from San Francisco State ty and terrible honesty of her University and is a published poet. depiction. She is the manager of Clayton Jacob’s memories of his Books in the Clayton Station. past, on the other hand, are Sunny and loves to “talk books.” filled with the sights and Reach her with questions or comsounds of circus life. They are ments at 673-3325. alive with the passion for the woman he loved, the friends


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