MAR 26 Clayton Pioneer 2004

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

March 26, 2004

925.672.0500

Take me out to the ball game

JOE ROMANO

SO, ANYWAY

Tamara Steiner / Clayton Pioneer

Clear skies and 80-degree temperatures were on tap for the official start of the 2004 Clayton Valley Little League Baseball season. On Saturday, March 13, several hundred families turned out to enjoy the sunshine and celebrate the 40th season of CVLL while their future big leaguers paraded across the field waving their hats to the adoring fans.

CVLL President, Jennie Fitzgerald, welcomed the crowd and officially dedicated the Major’s Field to the late Merrill “Mack” McCarty, one of the original co-founders of

Clayton Valley Little League.

Fitzgerald went on to introduce former Chicago Cub Jared “The Spark” Martin who in turn introduced the teams that make up the 2004 CVLL roster.

Martin, who is also the baseball Vice President for CVLL Board of Directors, played outfield for the Cubs from 1976-1981.

But the big stars of the day were of course the kids. Decked out in their brand new, soon to be soiled uniforms they smiled like pros that just sold stacks of $20 autographs.

They responded to the cheers with waves and cheers of their own, one team tossing candy to folks in the lower decks. They stood proudly as local resident, Corina Loftin, sang our National Anthem; and then they all threw their hats in the air as Naval Academy graduates do. After the parade, families lingered in the sunshine while enjoying carnival games and old fashioned Kettle Korn.

I was there in both professional and parental capacity. My boy was signed by the Peanut Division Yankees and was not about to miss an opportunity to bask in the love of his fans. He was also under the

See

CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE GIANTS wave to adoring fans during Opening Day Ceremonies

Romano, Page 16

Council celebrates 40 years of incorporation

BY JULIE PIERCE AND ELDORA HOYER Special to the Clayton Pioneer

On Tuesday, March 16, 2004, we celebrated the 40th anniversary of the first Clayton City Council meeting, which took place on March 18, 1964.

We were honored to have several of the founders of our City present at our council meeting, including three of the original council members, Bob Hoyer, our first Mayor, and George Abbott and David Cook. Also present was Ray Ollila who joined the Council in 1967.

Bob brought greetings from Henry Wagner and Al Liming, also on that first Council and from Marguerite Ellingson, our first City Clerk. Maury Huguet, our first (and current!) city attorney, was on hand, and Bob noted that Maury is the longest tenured city attorney in Contra

Costa County.

Bob Hoyer presented us with some words of wisdom and a copy of the first City budget - the total budget for that first year was $23,517. While the amounts have changed over the years, the revenues and expenditures are similar in proportion to what we have today.

Those original councils were very prudent with the City’s resources and we are trying very hard to maintain the high standards they set. We were pleased to hear Dave Cook say that in 1964 they had a “vision” for the City and that over the years, we have collectively far exceeded that vision. High compliments indeed. Bob noted that all of the original Council members are still around so serving Clayton must be a healthy thing to do!

In our meeting room, Mary Spryer set up a colorful Happy 40th

Anniversary Clayton display of photos and articles recounting the history of the city and the incorporation which all enjoyed seeing again and which provided the backdrop for our commemorative photos. The Clayton Historical Society Museum contains much more information about our incorporation - stop by and take a look on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons from 2 to 4 p.m.

This week I sat down with Bob & Eldora Hoyer and reviewed a bit of the history of the incorporation of our City.

What follows is a brief summary of how Tamara Steiner / Clayton Pioneer and why that effort took place, taken from “The Story of Clayton” written by CURRENT CITY OFFICIALS CELEBRATE WITH CLAYTON’S ORGANIZERS. the Hoyers in 1999 and as recounted to Standing, from left, Maury Huguet, Jr., city attorney since incorporation; Bob Hoyer, Clayton’s first mayor; David Cook, George Abbott, members of the me directly by Eldora and Bob.

See

Council,

Page 14

original city council; Councilmember Gregg Manning; Ray Ollila, original city council; Dave Shuey and Bill Walcutt, current Councilmembers. Kneeling and seated from left, Councilmember Pete Laurence, Mayor Julie Pierce and Eldora Hoyer.

‘Every 15 Minutes” volunteer is passionate

BY JILL BEDECARRE Clayton Pioneer

We’ve heard the phrases.

Don’t drink and drive. Choose a designated driver. Driving Under the Influence.(D.U.I.) Dead on Arrival (D.O.A.) We’ve seen the images .A curbside memorial. A candle vigil.

A front page photo of a crushed car and the young innocent faces of teens that died in the crash. Some say enough is enough. But volunteers like Laurie McCann don’t buy it.

It’s never enough when a young life is at risk. And so, the reason for “Every 15 Minutes” at Clayton Valley High School (CVHS). In two weeks, CVHS will be the scene of a drunk

LAURIE MCCANN driving crash and all that comes with the horrific consequences of poor choices and irresponsible behavior. The dead bodies, the injured, the dramatic airlift of the critically wounded to John Muir Medical Center. The

D.U.I. arrest. The chaplain and police officer notifying parents that their child was killed in the crash. A body being weighed and measured and placed in a body bag until he or she is identified by family members.

It’s all simulated, of course, but “emotionally charged and shocking for many,” says McCann. “Teens think they are invincible.” Hopefully by the end of the two-day program, we’ve taught them that they are not.” McCann has been involved with the “Every 15Minutes” program since its inception at Clayton Valley in 1999. The following year she was given an award by the Mt. Diablo Unified School District Safe and Free Schools Task

Force for “Outstanding Service Promoting Safe and Free Schools and Communities.

CVHS Principal John Neary introduced the program to Clayton Valley after experiencing its impact at his high school in Tahoe. Neary sent out a letter to potential parents and com-

munity leaders asking for their support in bringing the “Every 15 Minutes program to CVHS. “Somehow my name got on that list,” says McCann. She attended the meeting and never looked back.

The program is held every other year at the high school

and takes anywhere from six to 10 months to plan. “Laurie is extremely efficient, (with) high energy. She’s totally committed to the philosophy of the program. I trust her to do this program at Clayton Valley,” Neary says.

Throughout the planning

See McCann, Page 14

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Take advantage of these great deals and support the Pioneer advertisers

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 26, 2004

Around Town Lani Henley is engaged

Folk art on exhibit at the Pioneer

4th of July Volunteers Needed The City of Clayton, Community Services Commission, is recruiting volunteers for this year’s 4th of July Parade and Celebration.

This is the first year that the City will be organizing the event and volunteers are urgently needed, reports Linda

Smith, Community Services Commissioner. “We need 100 volunteers, and to-date, we have 10,” said Smith in her report to the city council on Mar. 16.

Volunteers are needed for set-up, decorations, registration, parking, Kiddieland,

Alana (Lani) Henley and Nicolas (Nick) Courville are engaged to be married at the end of May. Alana is the daughter of Bob and Lois Henley of Clayton and Tom and Sue Broaddus of Palo Cedro. Lani is a Community Services Officer with the Sacramento Police Department.

Nick’s parents are Ken and Mary Ann Courville of Dixon.

Nick is a Sales Manager for Coca Cola.

The couple will be married in Sacramento at the Croatian American Culture Center and plan to make their home in Sacramento.

The folk art works of Clayton artist Carlene Honeychurch are currently on exhibit at The Clayton Pioneer offices. Carlene is a classical folk artist and thoroughly enthused about both folk art and her many years of work in the style. The works will remain on exhibit until the Art and Wine Festival in May. Clayton lays claim to much talent. Other artists interested in exhibiting their works at the Pioneer offices are encouraged to contact the office at 6720500. crowd control, parade line-up, parade flow control, first aid, lost and found and for clean up.

With city finances stretched to the limit, the City is also seeking donations (large or small) to help offset the costs of hosting the event.

To volunteer, call Rhonda Basore, City Clerk, (925) 6727304.

Diamond Terrace Doll and Quilt Show Beautiful handmade quilts, hundreds of antique dolls, music, food and spectacular weather created the perfect recipe for the inaugural doll and quilt show held last Saturday at Diamond Terrace Retirement Community in Clayton. More than a dozen collectors showed off their vintage dolls and quilters from Cottontales of Clayton displayed their handmade quilts and clothing The quilts came in all sizes and shapes with colorful patterns and designs. Music students from Clayton Valley High School and Diablo View Middle School played piano music to the delight of the more than one hundred visitors. The Clayton Valley Historical Society was on hand showing off their quilt and historical collections. There were also a few Vintage Cars on display, adding to the ambiance of the artistic event. For more information on upcoming events at Diamond Terrace call 925-525-5100.

Party on, leprechauns

Clayton Irish, by birth or by choice, were “wearin’ the green” on St. Patrick’s Day as merry makers enjoyed the tra-

ditional corned beef and cabbage at local restaurants. At left, tiny Claytonians, Madeline Michael (center) and Sophie Pecher, right, enjoyed the Irish ballads of singer Sinead Clare at The Fox and The Fiddle, while Jeff Campbell, at right, put everyone in a corned beef and ale mood with the mournful strains of the bagpipe at Ed’s Mudville Grill.

Happy Norooz

Among these, the goldfish represents life, the flower is for beauty, a mirror and a candle symbolize light in the new life, the cookie is for the sweetness of life and an apple is for nourishment in the coming year.

The Clayton Pioneer wishes all of our Persian friends a healthy and Happy Norooz.

The first day of spring is also the first day of the Persian New Year. This year, that day fell on March 19 at 10:47 p.m.

Families celebrate the date by setting a table with symbols of new life in the coming year.

Lynne French

Clayton Resident

“2003 R ealtor Of T he Y ear!”

6200 Center Street, Suite E Clayton, CA 94517 Lynne@LynneFrench.com

East B ay B usiness T imes

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C S oming

MARY TARANTINO OF THE CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB took time out last Saturday to attend Diamond Terrace’s doll and quilt show and sale. Mary admires one of the more than hundreds of vintage dolls on display.

oon THE LYNNE FRENCH TEAM From left Julie Clairmont, Heather Gray, Sharon Sundin, Angelique Stone, Lynne and Danny French, Ruth Reed, Julie Dunn and Jeff Gillett.

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March 26, 2004

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Navlet’s ushers in Spring with brand new store in Concord When you step into Navlet’s Garden Centers’ new Concord store on Kirker Pass Road, a tall ficus tree surrounded by a colorful array of seasonal plants greets you.The inviting entrance

area of the store, we find 50,000 square feet of plants, trees, pottery and decorative items. Nash is quick to point out that Navlet’s is serviced by heirloom growers and specialty vendors who offer

THE NEWEST NAVLET’S STORE on Kirker Pass Rd., in Concord has a “shopper friendly” layout sets the tone for what lies ahead…nearly 70,000 square feet of every plant, flower and garden accessory imaginable from the common azalea to the not-so-common perennial.

The attractive tan and green A-frame exterior is the perfect complement to the interior décor. The ceilings are high and the aisles are wide creating an open, spacious feel to the main building which includes a gift center, children’s section, garden supplies and check out counter.

The store layout is “shopper friendly” with easy access to and from the different specialty areas. On the left is a 2500square foot Green House which manager Tim Nash says is “our crown jewel.” The tranquil sounds of water flowing from fountains, colorful hanging plants and plenty of light invite you to relax and enjoy the atmosphere while you shop.

Moving outdoors to the back

plants and trees that can’t be found anywhere else.

“We have one of the largest

STORE MANAGER, TIM NASH helps Clayton gardener, Casey Lenzi find the perfect choice for her spring garden

selections of fertilizers, including organic mixtures.” Along with the variety and specialty offerings, customers from Clayton love the convenient location. “When they come into the store, they comment “this is great, you’re right around the corner’,” says Nash.

An experienced group of

Page 3

We’re goin’ shopping at Concord Feed

employees is always on hand to help customers with their gardening needs. “We are all about customer service. If we don’t have the answer, we’ll find it out, and if we don’t have the product, we’ll get it.” Nash has been with Navlet’s Garden Centers since 1987 and earned his California Nursery Professional certification in 1992. His specialty is butterfly gardens, landscape design, roses and perennials.

Although the store has only been open for a few weeks, the response has been overwhelming, says Nash.

Clayton resident Casey Lenzi was quick to make the short trip from her home to Navlet’s when she decided to take advantage of the wonderful warm weather and work on her garden. “I practically own half the store by now,” she commented. She loves the convenience, the variety, the fountains and the “wonderful pottery area.” “They just happened to have what I need,” smiled Clayton resident Skip Ibsen as he filled his cart with plants and flowers.

To celebrate it’s grand opening in Concord, Navlet’s is featuring a three-day Grand Opening sale at all five of their locations, starting Friday, March 26. The sale will include special on tomatoes, bird baths, herbs, fountains and more. Navlet’s also offers a wide variety of classes including the “Let’s Talk Dirt IJ” coming up, taught by Navlet’s own Buzz Bertolero.

Navlet’s Garden Centers has served has served the Bay Area since 1885. All locations are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., seven days a week and will remain open until 6:30 p.m. starting April 4.

40 pound bag of Nutro Natural Choice $24.99 (reg. $29.99) plus a free box of biscuits exp. 4/10/04

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Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 26, 2004

There’s no place like home Awesome annuals Awesome annuals can be excellent accessories for your perennial borders. Annuals are not bad choices when used in combination with your staple perennials, they extend the seasons, they fill in the holes and some may re-seed. Corn Cockle is a romantic, cottage garden

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CORN COCKLE plant. Wispy, tall stems grow to three feet tall and are topped with a delicate and stunning two to three inch wide dark purplish pink bloom that lasts all summer long. Plant this annual in a mass planting for maximum charm.

Space it through the garden for more impact. Agrostemma githago ‘Milas’ is great in the rear of the border or in front of a fence.

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These plants will self-sow. Keep the plants that land in the right places, and pull out those that don’t. Enjoy Corn Cockle in your home. It makes a great cut flower.

This is an awesome annual, grown locally with our climate in mind.

Ocean Pearl is another Agrostemma. This superior plant offers pristine white two-inch flowers on two-foot tall stems.

This annual is in constant motion with the breeze. Grouping Ocean Pearl behind a border of Nemesia will extend the beds bloom time through August. Plant purple cornflower, or Salvia’ Indigo Spires’ as a backdrop. This is the beginning of a pleasant cottage garden.

Place Achillea Moonshine on both sides of the Ocean Pearl, and let nature take its course. It may take up to two years for the Yarrow to really establish itself, all the while the Corn Cockle is blooming and thriving. As time goes on, the annual ties, and the Yarrow takes control and flourishes. You can really get your money’s worth from a worthy annual. They need love too.

Viola Etain is one of the most beautiful violas. In our warm climate, plant Etain in part shade and enjoy every beautiful bloom.

This large, light yellow blossom is perfectly edged in lavender, very unusual, and a must to see.

Etain has a long blooming season from spring through fall. Cut back faded blooms to rejuvenate. This viola prefers rich soils and fertilizers every six weeks. When planting Campanula Poscharskyana, also called Serbian Bellflower, use the Etain Viola to extend bloom season.

These two make an excellent pair.

The bellflower naturalizes in a part shade environment, and reaches only six inches tall, blooming in shades of lavender.

Imagine piles of ten inch tall Etain, profuse in blooms accenting the soft green foliage of the

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Virginia Stock is an attractive annual, which can be used to replace all that Sweet Alyssum that some feel compelled to keep buying. Let’s plant a different annual, one that catches the eyes of friends and people walking by.

Malcomia Maritima is the botanical name for Virginia Stock, which, just so happens to be one of the easiest plants to grow. Plant in full sun, and give regular water to keep awesome. Growing only ten inches tall, this annual has a compact growth and sweet fragrance. Pink, lavender and white, plant this in pathways or as a bed edging.

Nemophilia Maculata Baby Five Spot is another container combo worth adding. Plant this annual around a container grown Solanum Rantonnetii, or Purple Potato Tree. Choose one of the 24” standards as the centerpiece for the container. Surround the perimeter of the container with dark purple Million Bell Petunias for a cascade. The Baby Five Spot will fulfill the medium place in the container, growing less than a foot tall and twenty inches wide.

FIVE SPOT The Five Spot is a showy five lobed white blossom with one dark purple spot at the end of each lobe that has a bloom. This purple and white combo container garden will be a showstopper all season long. You will love this annual and want to plant it again.

Shade gardeners have awesome annuals too. Asperula Orientalis Blue Woodruff is a soft addition to a shade garden filled with Meyer Fern, Leten Rose, and Spider Wart. The Meyer

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

makes a hardy backdrop to a shade garden. The soft ponytaillike fronds are as soft as they look, reaching three feet tall and wide. Space as necessary. Stagger plants with the Hellebore in front of and in between the Myer fern.

Plant two Spider Warts for each Hellebore.

Tradescantia Virginiana has long grass-like leaves that arch. Many three petal flowers are born late spring through early fall, in colors of blue, magenta and white. The Blue Woodruff is easy to grow and very attractive. The sky blue bloom of the Woodruff contrasts with the Leten Rose’s bold chartreuse bracts. Lamium White Nancy would be an excellent ground cover to plant with the Woodruff. It has variegated foliage of green and white, growing twenty-four inches wide and six inches tall. White Nancy blooms white from spring till mid-summer.

Annuals have a place in the Clayton garden. As more people plant beautiful perennials, and as they demand more beauty from their beds, folks will realize that some plants are so explosive with flowers that they simply take all the life out of them in a short time. But, we will still plant them again.

Treat them like fun earrings.

You wear them for a spell and put them in a drawer when you find something new. Plant some awesome annuals... just for the beauty of it.

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March 26, 2004

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 5

There’s no place like home The Search for an agent PATTY Is it necessary to interview multiple agents?

Real estate agents are used to competing with one another for business. An agent is often one of several agents being considered by a prospective homebuyer or seller. Sometimes, the contest is fierce. Recently an agent complained that she was one of eight being considered by a seller who wanted to make sure that he selected the right agent to list his home.

Is it necessary to interview numerous agents in order to find one that's right for you? Not necessarily.

While most real estate experts suggest interviewing three agents before making a choice, you may not have to interview at all depending on your situation.

The recommendation to interview three agents comes from experts who assume that you don't already have an agent.

Talking with more than one agent gives you a basis for comparison. But, if you bought or sold a home recently and had a good working relationship with your agent, you may want to consider using that agent again. Just make sure that the agent is experienced in the area where you want to buy or sell this time.

It's rarely a good idea to work with an agent from out of the area, even if you have

complete trust in the agent.

Having intimate knowledge of the local market place is one of the factors that make an agent superb. No matter how good an agent might be, it's impossible to cover an enormous territory successfully. If you're buying or selling outside of your agent's domain, ask your agent to recommend a local agent who can better serve your needs.

There are many qualities that define a great real estate agent. One of the most important is trustworthiness. Experience also ranks high on the list.

However, a relatively new agent can do an excellent job for you if he or she has adequate support from experienced colleagues.

But, there's no substitute for high ethical standards.

If you don't have personal experience with an agent you're considering using, be sure to check references.

Ask each agent to give you a list of recent clients he or she has worked with. Give the references a call and ask them if they would work with the agent again.

Be sure to ask what they liked and didn't like about working with the agent. For example, you might discover that an agent is a good negotiator and has excellent people skills-two desirable qualities in an agent-but that she's a bit disorganized and weak on follow-up. If you're

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ESTATE

a stickler for attention to detail, you might consider finding another agent who'll better understand your needs.

There are various reasons why sellers might want to talk to several agents before listing their home for sale.

Some sellers want to find out what different agents have to say about how they would market their home.

Other sellers know whom

they want to list with but they're interested in getting several expert opinions about the probable selling price of their home.

If you're just looking for price opinions, and don't want to go through the hassle of interviewing agents from several real estate offices, ask the agent you have selected to bring a few agents from his or her office through your home and take a survey of their opinions about a good list price.

Listen to your instincts when choosing an agent.

Buying and selling homes can be stressful, so it's important to work with an agent with whom you have a good rapport.

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Intero Real Estate Services is proud to announce that Susan Quattrin has joined our team of innovative real estate professionals–the team that is setting the standard for customer service in the real estate industry.

Susan Quattrin (925) 280-8584 Visit www.susanQuattrin.com

Susan Quattrin, a San Francisco native, long time resident of Contra Costa County and a strong supporter of our local schools, brings an extensive real estate background to Intero, including a number of years in real estate development and property portfolio/asset management. She began her residential sales business in 1991 at John M. Grubb followed by an additional two years dedicated to corporate relocation and employee buy-out administration. Susan has spent the previous five years with The John Katz Team, Coldwell Banker, Walnut Creek. At Intero, Susan and her Intero team offer quality and full real estate services to buyers and sellers throughout Contra Costa County. Susan also aligns her proven acquisition and disposition services with estate planners and attorneys for probate and trustee concerns. Don’t hesitate to call Susan Quattrin for your real estate needs. She can be reached in our Walnut Creek office at (925) 280-8584.

Let our team be your team

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

By joining Intero, Susan affirms her commitment to Intero’s core values of trust, respect and integrity. We are confident that, with Susan’s expertise and supported by exceptional management and state of the art technology, the team will consistently exceed your expectations. When experience counts, this Team is committed to quality service and great results.

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

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

prurealty.com/billwalcutt

GEORGE VUJNOVICH, Broker 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517

Tel: (925) 672-4433 Fax: (925) 672-4424

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

georgevujnovich.com Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty

ADDRESS

1111 Peacock Creek Drive 97 Regency Drive 337 Mt. Washington Way 618 Julpun Loop 263 Mountaire Circle 1286 Shell Circle 1458 Indianhead Circle 5004 Raven Way 1161 Moccasin Court 701 Condor Place 1074 Feather Circle

PRICE

$

915,000 610,000 533,300 558,000 625,000 490,000 432,000 632,000 565,000 413,500 510,000

SALE DATE

03/15/04 03/11/04 03/11/04 03/10/04 03/09/04 03/09/04 03/05/04 03/04/04 03/04/04 03/04/04 03/01/04

SF

3620 1900 1600 1939 1919 1709 1355 2315 1911 1595 1651

BED/BATH

4/2.5 4/2 3/2 3/2.5 4/2 3/3 3/2.5 3/2.5 4/2.5 3/2.5 3/2.5

ADDRESS

7024 Molluck Way 801 Gray Fox Place 59 El Portal Drive 635 Mt. Duncan Drive 3203 Coyote Circle 126 El Portal Place 206 Condor Way 800 Gray Fox Way 67 Regency Drive 3102 Coyote Circle 109 Forest Hill Drive

PRICE

SALE DATE

SF

$ 579,500 669,000 672,500 715,000 376,000 657,500 555,000 599,000 570,000 395,875 812,500

03/01/04 02/27/04 02/27/04 02/26/04 02/25/04 02/24/04 02/23/04 02/20/04 02/18/04 02/12/04 02/11/04

1816 2237 2857 2960 1252 2427 1911 2542 1801 1554 2680

BED/BATH

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

ADDRESS

1279 Shell Circle 1340 Shell Lane 3049 Windmill Canyon 20 El Toro 904 Arrowhead 1022 Tiffin Drive 926 Arrowhead 928 Kenston 1224 Bridlewood 1294 Shell Circle 24 Eastbrook Court

All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed

PRICE

$ 408,000 449,900 530,000 606,000 462,000 600,000 459,000 525,000 799,000 485,000 584,000

SALE DATE

02/11/04 02/06/04 02/03/04 01/30/04 01/30/04 01/30/04 01/30/04 01/27/04 01/26/04 01/21/04 01/14/04

SF

1430 1745 1493 2099 1904 1764 1749 2852 3540 1745 2056

BED/BATH

2/2 3/3 3/2 4/2 3/2.5 4/2 3/2.5 4/4 4/4 3/3 4/3.5

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 26, 2004

There’s no place like home “Plant safe trees this spring,” says PG&E As spring fever and planting frenzies hit Clayton homeowners, PG&E wants to remind customers to practice safety while planning and planting their landscape. March is the perfect time to learn about proper tree selection and to take stock of trees

surrounding homes and within your neighborhood. Here’s what PG&E suggests: Inspect trees. Look for broken branches from storm damage and evidence of disease or insect infestation.

Remove trees and branches

Smith Trim Crown molding Baseboards Doors Wainscoting Interior & exterior trim Custom trim

Don Smith

Phone: 925-673-3900 Fax: 925-673-3901 Cell: 510-710-5747 License No. 820457

Real Estate Lending Purchase and refinance

that are dead or dying, but do not trim within 10 feet of power lines. OSHA mandates that only “line clearance certified” tree trimmers are allowed within 10 feet of power lines.

Think about how planting new trees might improve landscaping, provide heat or wind protection. Planning for properly placed shade trees now can reduce summer energy bills in the future.

It is important to plan your landscaping with future safety in mind. All too often, the most visible and hazardous obstacles are ignored - overhead power lines.

Many times power lines are overlooked as a potential problem because certain trees take many years to grow to the height of a power line. For example, it could take more than a decade for an oak to grow to mature height. But once a tree grows into power lines, it becomes a

deiss design group Your Local Architects

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safety hazard for you, your neighbors and PG&E. A tree that grows into power lines can cause fires and outages that may affect your entire community.

Many customers find the look of utility poles that carry power lines unappealing. Poles cannot be completely hidden, but here are some tips: Strategically plant vegetation to draw your eyes away from existing power poles.

Plant trees that have a spreading crown to diffuse the vertical view.

Strategically plant trees in your yard to block the view of existing power poles. Keep in mind that you must allow for an appropriate clearance. For example, trees that have a spreading crown might be planted 20 feet from the pole and lines and block the view of the electric facilities while not posing a hazard.

Plant lower-growing trees or

Clayton residents Randy Welty, Ted Sudderth, Doris Ward and Casey.

373 Mt.Washington Way - Clayton - CA 94517 Tele: (925) 673 - 6733 Fax: (925) 673 - 6734 E-Mail: rwdeiss@ddg-llc.com

It’s easy and available 24 hours a day!

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PETE LAURENCE’S roots go deep into the Clayton soil. He’s lived here since 1954 and was a member of the Clayton Valley High School Class of ‘63. His long relationship with Clayton has given him a thorough knowledge of its history and a good perspective on its future.

Patricia Harrison

18 years experience in model homes, residential and commercial Clayton resident

HAS BEEN SUCCESSFULLY SELLING HOMES,

STRAIGHT LINE IMPORTS Fabrication and Installation Installation of:

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

PETE’S EXPERIENCE WITH INVESTING is rock solid.

He can also handle relocations, tax deferred exchanges guaranteed sales, equity advances and swing loans.

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When it’s time to BUY or SELL, remember . . .

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CLAYTON RESIDENT FOR 10 YEARS

925 . 672 . 1772

Broker-Owner, Realtor, GRI

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

Julie Rogers Shannon Malone Shannon Wirth

(925) 673-2922 Fred Guanzon (925) 381-3001

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(925) 673-9737

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Countertops * Bar/ Vanity Tops Bath/ Shower Enclosures * Fireplace

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PETE LAURENCE

925.693.0016

Licensed. Bonded.

A CIVIC MINDED MAN, Pete began his public service in Viet Nam, serving with the Green Berets. Continuing at the local level, he has been president of the Clayton Business and Community Association, and has served three times as the mayor of Clayton.

PETE

majestic oak or stately redwood, as they are magnificent looking.

But planting such trees near electric lines means the utility must eventually prune them to maintain clearance from power lines.

Electric utilities must keep trees and vegetation clear from overhead lines to comply with the law, ensure public safety, increase fire safety and improve reliable delivery of electricity.

Some examples of trees that work well around power lines are the Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis), Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), Star magnolia (Magnolia stellata) and the Smooth sumac (Rhus glabra). Your local nursery can suggest many other plants that will only be around 20 feet tall at maturity.

Also, consider driveways, walkways, sewer and water lines or septic systems to prevent damage caused by roots.

Consult with a landscaper or nursery operator in advance about the growth characteristics of particular species.

Make sure the tree has sufficient room to grow, above and below ground.

One final thought as you plan and plant the landscaping around your home or business, look out for the long-term interest of your neighborhood by planting the right tree in the right place.

Mode Nouveau Decorating

BUYERS AND SELLERS!

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ME ABOUT MY FREE HOME FINDING SERVICE

shrubs near the base of poles, but no closer than 10 feet. In some areas, PG&E is required to clear a 10-foot cylinder around the pole that extends eight feet above the ground to maintain fire safety.

Do not plant trees that grow tall near power lines or poles.

Tall trees grow into lines and may present other safety risks.

When trimmed or removed, poles will be exposed again.

Do not plant vines that will grow up poles. Vines on poles may pose a threat to utility workers, when climbing poles.

Underground facilities, such as electric, gas and telephone lines, and television cables, may also pose a hazard during stump removal or tree planting. To find out where these facilities are located, call Underground Service Alert (USA) at 1 (800) 227-2600 at least three days before you plant.

Look up for power lines to consider mature tree height requirement. Shape and height are important when planting near power lines.

Trees that grow in pyramidal or columnar shape are far better than the spreading shapes such as an Elm. Select power line friendly trees that grow to a mature height of 25 feet or less.

You may have envisioned a

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R EAL E STATE S ALES AND F INANCING 5400 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite B-4, In the Clayton Valley Shopping Center

March 26, 2004

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Refrigerants: out with the old - in with the new Were you aware that the EPA regulations are changing the type of refrigerant that heating and air conditioning contractors will be able to offer their customers in the equipment they purchase? In January, 2010, R-22 equipment, commonly known as Freon®-22 equipment, which most consumers presently have as their existing air conditioners, will no longer be manufactured, as R-22 has been determined to be one of the ozone-depleting HCFC’s.

The EPA has found an environmentally friendly refrigerant that is called Puron®. Puron® has been around a little over eight years, it is universally accepted by the EPA and is the new refrigerant of the future. You may be thinking, well 2010 is six years in the future, why worry about it now? The reason being is that R-22 is going to start becoming scarce sooner than later. If you are taking into consideration replacing your equipment, you might want to contemplate a Puron® system.

Here are some reasons why: Freon®-22 is beginning to be phased out of production toward the end of 2004.

In 2005, there will be a 35% reduction, and in 2006, there will be nearly 50% less available. What that translates to

Home and Garden Show at Pavilion Spring is here and with it comes the 19th Annual Contra Costa Spring Home & Garden Show, at the Chronicle Pavilion in Concord. Whether you are contemplating a remodel, challenged with finding the professional who is just right for your upcoming home project, or looking for innovative, one of a kind gifts and décor, you’ll have to look no further than the Contra Costa Spring Home & Garden Show next month.

All of the basics in home improvement are covered, including companies specializing in windows, screens, doors, custom cabinets, countertops, flooring, carpeting, tile, heating and air, closet organization, skylights and kitchen lighting.

Service vendors include home security, financial advisors, mortgage assistance, and estate planning, along with the expected general contractors, painting contractors, and even a contractor referral service.

Those seeking gift and gourmet will not be disappointed.

Various companies will feature items such as gourmet dips and spreads and goodies of all kinds The show runs April 2-4.

Show hours are Friday, noon-7 p.m., Saturday 10-7, and Sunday 10-6. Admission for adults is $5 and children 12 and under will be admitted free.

you, if you have a problem with your Freon®-22 system, is that you could incur higher maintenance and operating

SHERI DICKSON HOME WORK costs, as they are going to become increasingly less available. This will cause a higher demand, which in turn will cause a higher price that the dealer will have to pay and must pass onto you, the consumer.

When Puron® first entered the marketplace, there was a considerable price difference, but now systems are becoming more affordable and the air conditioning that you receive is a perfect comfort offered at a higher SEER rating. The “SEER” rating, Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio on equipment is proposed to be mandated in 2006 by the U.S. Department of Energy to either a 12 SEER or

13 SEER minimum. Hence, if you are considering changing your equipment, you may also want to take into account the higher efficiency ratings as well. The higher the efficiency rating, the greater the savings on your utility bills.

In addition, PG & E may offer a rebate; you can check on their website at http://www.pge.com/res/rebat es/ Be prudent not to shortcut yourself now when considering a new system, as it may cost you more to operate and repair in the future. If you intend to stay in your home long term, carefully weigh all of your options. Note, when you change out a Freon®-22 air conditioner to Puron®, your indoor coil needs to be changed in addition to be compatible with the Puron® system and an expansion valve is needed to meet actual rated efficiency. Copper linesets should also be replaced as well, as the old oil reacts differently with the new Puron® refrigerant.

Remember, airflow is the key to operation and efficiency, so upgrade filtration whenever possible.

Sheri Dickson is co-owner of Pro-Tech Heating and Air Conditioning

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Call me (925) 673 2170 Linda Garrido CA Ins. Lic. # 0A30997

The Garrido Agency, at the local Clayton Station.

5439 Clayton Road Suite, F Clayton, CA 94517

Page 7

THE VAN-FLEET REMAX TEAM AND

THE REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT GROUP PRESENT

Investment Real Estate Basics

Spend an evening with Paul Conrow and Steve Swanson of Diablo Funding Group and learn the essential elements necessary for successfully investing in real estate

Learn:

The importance of having a s trategy Leveraging and financing alternatives What are the possible p itfalls Calculating your cash f lows What to look for in an investment h ouse How to buy at the right p rice How to get s tarted

When:

Where:

Oakhurst Country Club 1001 Peacock Circle Clayton Serving a light dinner snack and beverages RSVP CALL (925) 889-5815 BY FRIDAY,

April 22, 2004 7 - 9 pm

APRIL 16, TO RESERVE YOUR PLACE PAUL CONROW retired from corporate America as Senior Vice President, Visa International, responsible for worldwide telecommunications engineering and operations. During his 40-year career with various companies including Bell Labs, ATT, the Gap and Fireman’s Fund, he’s held a number of positions related to technology, customer service and finance. He’s a member of various boards including a fund raising charity sponsored by Harmon Killebrew (1984 Baseball Hall of Fame).

Paul is extremely active in the real estate industry. He’s received the Affiliate of the Quarter from both the Contra Costa Realtors in Motion and the Realtors Marketing Association in San Ramon. He’s also the 2003 and 2004 Treasurer of the Women’s Council of Realtors and is a licensed Real Estate Broker.

STEVE SWANSON retired after 30 years at ATT Bell Labs and Pacific Bell as Chief Technology Officer. Over his career, he was involved with a number of large efforts, including a deployed military ABM system, the first large-scale desktop call center system for telephone companies, and rebuilding Pacific Bell’s billing system, which quickly became the worldwide leading billing package for large telecommunications companies, implemented throughout the US, Australia, Italy, Germany and most of the US. He brings a strategic and technical view to mortgage lending, holding a BS/MS in Computer Science and an MBA from Sloan. Besides mortgage lending, he’s on the boards of a number of technology companies and conducts international workshops in building executive client relationships.

PAUL AND STEVE are branch managers for Diablo Funding in Danville where they are focused on developing educational, support and financing programs for the real estate investor. Both own investment properties as part of their portfolios, and understand the issues involved.

Josie Van Fleet-Bronson For superior service and a successful real estate transaction in Clayton or surrounding communities, call Josie, a 19-year Clayton resident and area specialist — The Van Fleet-Bronson Team.

Specializing in: Property Management Loans/Refinancing Real Estate Sales - Residential and Investment Ranked #15 in RE/MAX of California and Hawaii and #30 in the world by RE/MAX Int’l.

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RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Suite D Clayton, CA 94517

925-672-4333

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The Van Fleet-Bronson Team

Your pet should be tied to our apronstrings!

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Left to right: (Back Row) Danny Provinse, Colby Chambers, Ron Chambers, Miroslav Bronson. (Front Row) Kim Chambers, Cathie Provinse, Jennifer Nascimento, Josie Van Fleet-Bronson, Lynne Wills, Kathy Frame

Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 26, 2004

Choosing coverings for those new windows Many projects sound simple enough; window replacement is a good example. You do your research, find the windows you want, and have them installed,.

Easy! Your house is secure again, but you’re tired of the fish bowl effect and the colorful sheets greeting your neighbors.

The next step is the privacy

issue.

The old blinds are...well…old, no longer fit and you hate them. You've seen a blind or shade at your friend's house or in a magazine and you love the look. It's time to have your beautiful new windows measured for your dream coverings. You are shocked to discover the silhouettes you want-

La Veranda Café

Northern Italian Cuisine in downtown Clayton Fresh soups, salads, antipasti, pizza and pasta Dinner and lunch daily Brunch on Sunday Children’s menu and take out service available

For reservations call (925) 524-0011 6201 CENTER ST. CLAYTON

The Magic & Myster y of

Peter Morrison Make your child’s party the experience of a lifetime with Peter’s amazing

Children’s Magic Show 1-877-624-4264

or visit www.morrisonmagic.com

Come and see Peter live every Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Skipolini’s in downtown Clayton

ed don't fit in the opening of your energy efficient double hung windows, or the new vinyl frame has reduced the mounting depth to only accommodate mini blinds. How did this happen?

The newest style specialty windows -- you know the ones with angles, arches, and eyebrow tops -- aren't they beautiful? They look so good in the magazine. I just love them. But, they are nearly impossible to cover.

So how are you going to protect your furnishings, floors or even think about watching your big screen TV with all that glare?

There are many innovative new products and possibilities available, but they should be explored prior to window selection. By analyzing the use of each room and the look you wish to achieve, your decorator can assist you in selection, give you exact depth requirements, and show you the products available for your specific needs. Being equipped with this information will allow you to work with the window salesperson to avoid costly mistakes and disappointments. There are questions, options and solutions you may not think of and your

ALISE LACOSSE

DECK

HALLS

THE

window salesperson may not ask the right questions, or know how to advise you. These are just a few issues to consider if you want to have the best information available and achieve the end result you have in mind.

Consulting a professional is a smart decision.

Hunter Douglas has developed a few new ways to cover windows that are multi functional. If you are thinking about replacing your dust collecting mini blinds ,consider a top down-bottom up duette (cellular) shade. This is a favorite. It gives full coverage to shield you from the sun and adds a buffer from the cold in the win-

ter. Its best feature is its ability to be lowered partially from the top, allowing you to see beautiful Mt. Diablo, the skyline and rolling hills, while maintaining privacy below. It can also be raised from the bottom when privacy is not an issue. With black out fabric, you can enjoy a darkened bedroom or home theater effect for your television screen.

The newest product, Trios, looks like a duette, but splits open like a blind. It can just as quickly be closed, or raised to stack at the top.

Alouette Light Louvers, at first glance, look like wood blinds. However, they have a fabric cell that rotates for privacy and light direction. Slats are two and three quarters inches wide and are available in semiopaque and room darkening fabric. This shade is very lightweight and can cover a window up to 120" wide and 120" high.

Silhouette remains a favorite, as well, and makes a beautiful under treatment for decorative fabric side panels, swags and valances.

For my Oakhurst neighbors who have windows of every shape and size and three levels of windows on one wall, it can be tricky to cover them. Many

BY MURELEEN BENTON CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Special to the Pioneer

If you look at the historical bursting of past “bubbles,” you’ll find that economic growth after the bursts was slow for many years to come. The bubble of 1929 was similar to what we recently experienced because it was based on a technology revo-

lution and the expansion of global communications. After that bubble burst, the decade of the Great Depression followed.

However, only four years after the bust of the dot-com bubble, optimism in the stock market is growing quickly again.

This leaves us wondering if we have not only forgotten the lessons we have learned throughout history but perhaps also overlooked those learned more recently. We may be failing to recognize important warning signs even if they were fresh in our minds just four years ago.

was at 5,000. In 2004, it’s around 2,100. In March 2000, the Fed Funds rate was at six percent. In February 2004 the rate is much lower, hovering at one percent.

The impact of this rate being historically low is reflected in the Bank Prime Rate which was at four percent in fourth quarter 2003 compared to nine percent in March 2000. The annual average unemployment rate for 2000 was four percent while the rate for 2003 was a much higher six percent.

But you should also look at the similarities between today’s economy and the landscape immediately preceding the 2000 dot-com bubble burst. The gross domestic product (GDP) is growing rapidly, just as it was at the end of 1999. New home sales are expected to set a record in

Everybody’s talking about Diamond Terrace

Diamond Terrace Retirement Community, with its country setting, is located in the beautiful historic town of Clayton. You’ll love our friendly caring staff, convenient location and the spectacular views of Mt. Diablo and surrounding hills. You’ll find our monthly rates c h e c k b o o k f r i e n d l y , and you'll know why so many active seniors call Diamond Terrace home.

Q Q Q

Spacious one and two bedroom apartment homes Restaurant style dining Cultural, recreational and exercise programs Most utilities

Q Q Q Q Q

Alise Lacosse is owner of Alise Interiors. She can be reached for questions or comments at 672-7701

Recovering from the dot-com mess

THAT WAS THEN, THIS IS NOW First of all, let’s compare where we were in early 2000 with where we are today. First, we can look at what is not the same: In 2000, the NASDAQ

Q

of our favorite shades do not come in specialty shapes. The only way to have consistency with custom shutters. They are beautiful,l but there goes the vacation fund.

How about those transom windows? You know, the ones in our bedrooms, living rooms and family rooms -- pretty much all over the place. We didn't cover them because the cost to do so was almost as much as covering the taller ones below.

I wish the architect had given us just one opening to deal with.

The eight inches of wall between them is such a problem.

My new home of one year has beautiful shutters, installed by the previous owner. But the transoms and arches were left naked. The bedroom and family room receive strong afternoon sun. This generates the broiler effect. Continuing with the shutters and joining them with a wood panel painted to match the new shutters is my ultimate choice. Yes ,that's what I'll do as soon--as I build up a vacation fund that I can steal from.

Housekeeping, complimentary laundry facilities 24-hour emergency maintenance services Scheduled local transportation for shopping, medical appointments and outings 24-hour staffing small pets welcome

To schedule your personal tour and complimentary lunch, or to receive a brochure, please call 925.524.5100

D i a m o n d Te r r a c e Retir ement Community

6401 Center Str eet, Clayton, Calif or nia 94517

Alise Interiors

Make it your own!

A lise Interiors is now offering custom furniture for every room in your home

G G G G

Custom made to your specifications Styles and fabrics to fit your lifestyle Less expensive than retail stores Hunter Douglas products-draperies, valances and bedding, custom framing and mirrors

Your hometown resource Call for a complimentary consultation

672-7701

Weekend and evening appointments available

2003, just as they did in 1999.

People are trading online again, just as they were in 2000. Dotcompanies are advertising again and foregoing profits for revenue. Analysts are even beginning to value stocks based on 2005 projections, although this is more routine since the market is normally forward-looking.

THE RISK FACTOR Perhaps the most important similarity between 2000 and 2004 is the mindset of taking risks. Thanks to the $125 billion that flowed into the market in 2003, optimism is growing.

While the circumstances may have changed, the current market environment has at least one factor in common with that of the late ‘90’s: high stock valuations. So what can you do differently this time around? Your best bet is to limit your current and future risk by following some fundamental financial planning strategies, such as: Know your risk tolerance.

Factors such as your goals, your attitude toward investing and you’re time horizon are important to consider when evaluating your level of risk.

Consider your timeframe.

Keep your investment strategies consistent with your investment timeframe. Long-term and shortterm goals require different approaches and investment options.

Dollar-cost average. For a long-term focus, use dollar-cost averaging to take advantage of market fluctuation. Dollar-cost averaging requires a set financial commitment over time.

Short term means low risk.

For short-term goals, take low risks with certificates and other investments that have shorter time horizons.

Diversify for type, tax and time. Diversify across several different types of investments.

Also consider diversification in regard to taxes and time horizons.

Establish reasonable expectations. If you’re prepared to deal with market volatility and don’t expect immediate doubledigit returns, you can meet the uncertainties of the future with greater confidence.

Get help. A professional financial advisor can help you limit your risk during these uncertain times. He or she will work with you to develop a comprehensive plan to meet your specific long-and-short-term financial goals.

Mureleen Benton can be reached for questions or comments at 685-4523.

March 26, 2004

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 9

Ham - centerpiece of the Easter dinner LINDA WYNER

FOOD

FOR

THOUGHT

Prior to the 20th Century avalanche of beef in the American diet, pork was the protein mainstay. Pigs were easy to raise—just let ‘em loose in the forest or field—and just about everything is edible.

One of the most popular cuts is ham—the centerpiece of the Easter dinner table. Hams come from the hip joint (aitch) through the shank (tibia and fibula) of the hind leg. The halfham you find in supermarkets is either the butt (containing the aitch) or shank (containing the hock or knee joint). Picnic hams aren’t really hams at all but the cured shoulder of the porker. Fresh hams are just that—uncured meat. This time around, though, I’m talking about rosy pink (cured) ham.

Connoisseurs favor country ham over urban (non-country) ham, although the latter far outsells the former because it is more widely available, costs less and is easier to prepare.

Those of us on the West Coast don’t see much country ham but if you’re from the South, hardly anything can match a

Virginia ham.

A top-drawer country ham (can you say Smithfield?) comes from pigs that are fed a nut-based diet and finished with field foraging on harvested peanut farms. After slaughter, the ham is dry-cured for four to six weeks, then the skin is rubbed with black pepper and other spices, smoked for about a month and aged for up to two years. A country ham has a finer texture and saltier and strongerseasoned flavor than urban hams.

Domestic urban hams (from pigs mostly raised on corn) are either “sweet pickle” cured or injection cured. Sweet pickle curing involves immersing a ham in sweet seasoned brine.

Injection curing is just that— the brine is injected into the ham with a series of hypodermic needles. After curing, some urban hams are smoked and aged.

So, what’s all this talk about curing, you ask? Well, it’s required to arrest bacterial decay. Before refrigeration, it was a practical necessity, now it is mostly done for flavor.

Saltpeter (a nitrate chemical used to preserve the meat and give it its rosy color) is part of most cures, although it is controversial because it is believed by some to be carcinogenic.

Because brine cures necessarily add extra weight to the ham,

“water added” or “natural juices” can be found on the label. By law, such water content cannot exceed 10% or the ham must be labeled “imitation.”

Most urban hams are fully or partially cooked. They should be heated to the producer’s instructions (generally 140°F) but the better flavor and texture develops around 155°F to 160°F (don’t overcook a ham, though, because it will become tough and dry).

Country hams require much more preparation before eating; the preparation includes scrubbing, cold-water soaking, rescrubbing, simmering, skinning and roasting. A thin, salty, panfried slice of ham, maybe with a little red-eye gravy, eggs and biscuits is a fine Southern breakfast. Or bake a thick 1” slice with 1-tsp whole cloves, 1-tsp dry mustard, 1/3 c packed brown sugar and ¼ c vinegar in a 350°F oven for an hour. It will serve 4 people easily with such accompaniments as mashed sweet potatoes, sautéed greens and a fruit salad. Some folks enjoy country ham in a Sunday casserole: Scalloped Country Ham 4 Tbsp. butter, divided 3 Tbsp. flour 1½ c milk Dash cayenne pepper ½ lb. fresh mushrooms,

sliced 4 green onions, sliced thin 2 Tbsp. Port or Madeira 2 Tbsp. chopped parsley ½ tsp. dried tarragon ½ c cracker crumbs 1 ½ c minced ham 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped Make white sauce by melting 3 Tbsp. butter. Stir in flour and pepper and cook for a few minutes. Remove from heat and add milk, whisking well. Return to heat, stirring until thickened.

Melt remaining 1 Tbsp butter in large frying pan. Add mushrooms and green onions and cook for 5 minutes. Add port, parsley and tarragon. Mix in ham and eggs.

Spray or grease bottom of 1 qt. casserole. Sprinkle ¼ c of cracker crumbs, add mushroommeat-egg mixture, cover with white sauce and sprinkle remaining crumbs on top. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until brown and bubbly.

Imports shouldn’t be overlooked in ham cookery. Parma ham—or prosciutto—is drycured and air-dried but not smoked or cooked. (Less common Westphalian and Bayonne hams have wonderful flavors, too.)

Try saltimbocca some evening. Pound pieces of chicken or pork very thin, top with a sage leaf (or sprinkle dry sage generously over one side of the meat) and a thin slice of prosciutto. Secure with a toothpick.

Quickly sauté in a Tbsp. of butter about 3 minutes per side and

Monopoly has a long history The time is 1933 and Franklin Roosevelt is president.

The nation is struggling with the hardships imposed by the Great Depression. Charles Darrow, an unemployed heating sales representative from Philadelphia, copyrights a game he calls Monopoly.

Darrow submits his game to Parker Brothers, who reject it because they feel it is too complicated for the mass market.

Darrow goes into production himself and sells the game to local stores and to FAO Schwarz Toys in New York.

The game sells well and news of the success gets back to Parker Brothers who license the game from Darrow. In 1935, Monopoly is America’s best selling game. At the end of 1936, one and three quarter million Monopoly editions were sold and Charles Darrow retires a millionaire.

Charles Darrow didn’t really invent Monopoly but more or less discovered it. His game evolved from a game called Landlords, which was patented in 1904. The Landlords game included a continuous path of forty spaces, four railroads, two utilities - water and an electric franchise and twenty-two rental properties. Other similarities to Monopoly included a parking space, a jail, a “Go to Jail” space and a luxury tax.

In 1933, Darrow plays a game called Finance, an adaptation of Landlords, where properties were named after Atlantic City, New Jersey streets. Chance and Community Chest cards were part of the game and houses and hotels were important features. With just a few additions and changes, Darrow had his game.

Parker Brothers purchased Darrow’s copyright and helped him patent the game. In return, Darrow received a royalty for every game sold. The game’s immense success caused the forerunners of the game to come forward. Parker Brothers was able to come to financial terms with the makers of Landlords and Finance. Part of the agreement had Parker Brothers producing both games, neither was a success.

Parker Brothers would later merge with another game company, Milton Bradley, to form

MIKE BANDUCCI

PLAY TIME

what is today known as Hasbro Games. Monopoly is made in several different versions including Disney, The Simpson’s, Lord of the Rings and many more. In 2003, a specialty game company, Winning Moves, under license from Hasbro games, introduced a replica of the original 1935 Monopoly game. The game has wooden hotels and houses, metal tokens, original artwork and original Title Deeds and property cards. This First Edition game can be found only at specialty game and toy retailers.

Do you consider yourself a Monopoly expert? Maybe you would like to enter a Monopoly

tournament. Monopoly tournaments happen all across the world. A US champion is crowned every three years from players who compete in local and state championships.

Champions from all fifty states are invited by Parker Brothers to attend an all-expenses paid trip to vie for the title of United States Champion. National champions from up to thirty countries participate in a tournament to determine a Monopoly World Champion.

What properties are the best investments? According to Philip Orbanes, a leading expert on the subject of Monopoly, the orange properties, St. James Place, Tennessee Avenue and New York Avenue, are the best investment. Philip, in his book, Monopoly Companion The Players Guide, uses detailed statistical analysis to determine that these properties are inexpensive to develop, are landed on frequently and return a good value. The Green properties are considered the worst investment. If you buy a railroad, do not stop at one.

Controlling all four railroads will be a cash cow for the owner. Avoid the two utilities due to poor return on invest-

add ¼ c Marsala (or white wine) to the pan juices to make a quick sauce.

Linda Wyner is an attorney

in Walnut Creek by day, and an accomplished chef and “foodie” by choice. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.co

Computer and Network Services * Design, build and service home and small business networks from 1 to 500 computers

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Mike is the owner of Toys, Games & More. Contact him with any questions or suggestions at 673-8634.

672-7025

$8 Per Week

Rising Phoenix Martial Arts 1028 Diablo St. in Clayton (old Post Office)

6 week minimum/10 week maximum purchase New Jazzercisers or those returning after 6 months or more only. No cash value. Not valid with any other discount or coupon.

1-800-FIT-IS-IT www.jazzercise.com

Toys, Games and More

In the Clayton Station Shopping Center

Specialty toys and games at discount prices Up to 20% off every day!

Klutz Arts and Crafts Kits

Playmobil Breyer Horses

THOMAS TRAINS

Lamaze Infant Toys

CLASSIC GAMES – SPECIALTY CHESS SETS, POKER CHIPS AND BACKGAMMON

PUZZLES

- 20 to 1000 Pieces

Easter Bunnies – pay attention!

Find the perfect basket fillers or hop away with a custom made Easter basket!

Snuggle up with a Ty Plush puppy or bear

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“Birthday Headquarters” Find that unique, perfect little gift for $15 or less

673-8634

Free festive gift wrapping - Plenty of free parking Located in the Clayton Station across from Blockbuster, Toys, Games and More is your hometown toy store, locally owned and operated by Mike and Christine Banducci.

Toys, Games and More supports the following organizations: Clayton Community Children’s Center, Clayton Children’s Center, Mt. Diablo Elementary, Ayers Elementary, Highlands Elementary, Clayton Valley High School Athletic Boosters, Diablo View Middle School, Northcreek Academy, CBCA, Clayton Community Library, Build-a-Gym, Clayton Valley Little League, The Cub Scouts, MDSL Soccer, St. Agnes School, Tabernacle Christian School, Dana Hills Swim Team, Oakhurst Swim Team

Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 26, 2004

Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., MAR. 29 FOR THE APR. 9 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT MAR. 26, APR. 2, 9 Digital Thunder Bowling @ Clayton Bowl 4-6 p.m. Digital Thunder Bowling on Friday afternoons for kids includes music, lights and bumper lanes. Clayton Valley Bowl.

689-4631 MARCH 27 Child Safety Fair Loma Vista Preschool 10-12 noon. Loma Vista Preschool PTA hosting a free child safety fair on bike helmet safety, fingerprinting, car seat checks, pool safety, fire safety, CPR Demonstrations and stranger awareness.

Wendy Nelson, 925 370-6035, wendydn@yahoo.com NOW THRU MAR. 27 My Fair Lady @ CTA Crossroads Theatre, Walnut Creek Thurs.-Sun. 8pm, Sat. matinee 2pm. World’s Greatest Musical by Lerner & Loewe is the standard by which all musicals are measured at acclaimed CTA Crossroads Theatre. 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek. www.ctacrossroads.org 944-0597 MAR. 29 Theology on Tap @ Black Diamond Brewing Co., Walnut Creek 7-9pm. Casual forum for adults in their 20’s & 30’s for stimulating discussion sponsored by St. Bonaventure Catholic Community. Free admission. Black Diamond Brewing Company, 2330 N. Main St., Walnut Creek. www.stbonaventure.net 672-5800 MAR. 30 Patty Cakes @ Clayton Library 11 a.m. Story time for children up to 3 years on Tuesdays.

Clayton Library. www.cclib.org 673-0659

R&M Pool, Patio and Gardens, 6780 Marsh Creek Rd., Clayton.

672-0207 APR. 12-16 Clayton YMCA Spring Break Camp @ Clayton Community Gym 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Early drop off 7:30 a.m., pickup by 6 p.m. Super sports mania spring break camp for grades 1-7. Call 925-889-1600 for more information.

APR. 18 Canto Bello Spring Ring Handbell Concert 4 P.M, Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton APR. 19 National Library Week Activities, Clayton Community Library 3:30-5:30 p.m. Worm stories and "wiggle worms"- make and eat your own creation while the grown ups enjoy our backyard hiking presentation. All ages welcome. No registration Required.

6125 Clayton Road, Clayton APR. 21 Art for Life @ Clayton Library 3:30-5 p.m. Celebrate National Library Week by creating your own masterpiece with Anthony Knutson, director of The Art for Life Foundation. Food, art and stories, too! Free admission but advance registration required. Clayton Library www.cclib.org 673-0659 Apr. 22 Investment Real Estate Basics, Oakhurst Country Club 7-9 p.m. Spend and evening with Paul Conrow and Steve Swanson of Diablo Funding Group and learn the essential elements necessary for successfully investing in real estate. Call (925) 889-5815 to reserve your place. Light dinner snack and beverages served.

MAR. 30 Picture Book Time @ Clayton Library 11 a.m. Story time on Thursdays for children 3-5 years who may attend without parents. Clayton Library www.cclib.org 673-0659

APR. 23 Historical Society Annual Spring Pot Luck 6 p.m. Clayton Historical Society annual program & pot luck.

Odd Fellows Hall, Cowell Rd., Concord. www.claytonhs.com 672-0240

MAR. 31 Diablo View Middle School Concert 7:00. To raise funds for a Disneyland trip the Diablo View Jazz Band will host a Guest Artist Concert on Wednesday, March 31 at 7:00 p.m. in the Multi-Use Room at Diablo View Middle School. The Concert is open to the public and tickets will be on sale at the door. For advance purchase tickets, please call 925672-1066. See April 25 entry under Schools and Education.

APR. 24 Clayton Cleans Up 9 a.m.- 12 noon. Organize your neighborhood, scout, church or other civic group. Individuals welcome. Bring your trimmers and gloves. Help trim plants & pick up litter. Contact Dana Deely at 672-8645 for more info or to sign up. City of Clayton. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304

APRIL - JUNE Concord/Clayton Mt. Diablo Region YMCA Programs at the Clayton gym for adults and children including hockey, basketball, soccer and volleyball.

Call 889-2600 for information

MAY 7, 8 Clayton Historical Society Annual Gardens Tour Friday and Saturday rain or shine. Call 672-0240 for more information, www.claytonhs.com. Tickets will go on sale early this spring.

APR. 2 Easter Seals Team Captain Kick-Off Meeting 11:30 a.m. Become a Team Captain. Planning and information meeting for 2nd annual Easter Seals Walk With Me East Bay. RSVP Lynne Anderson 510-835-2131x130 or landerson@esha.org. CSY Hayward, Contra Costa Campus, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Road, Concord, Library Room 149.

MAY13 Puppets and Judy Puppet Show, Clayton Community Library 11-11:30 a.m. and 4-4:30 p.m., Library Meeting Room, 6125 Clayton Road, 673-0659, www.claytonlibrary.org

APR. 3 Mt. Diablo Elementary 4th Annual Benefit Auction 6:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road, Concord. Reserved seating limited to 250. Tickets are $40 each.

Food by Outback Steakhouse, live auction, silent auction, casino fun, DJ Entertainment donated by Case Productions (Kevin Case).

All proceeds benefit Mt. Diablo Elementary School. For additional information call Caren Case at 673-1266 or Staci Enriquez at 672-2464.

APR. 3 Clayton YMCA, Healthy Kids Day @ Clayton Community Gym 1-5 p.m. Topics include staying active, healthy eating, demonstrations by local emergency services, vendor tables. All are welcome, Call 925.889.1600 for more information.

MAY 17 46th Annual Pro/Am Golf Tournament Mt. Diablo Region YMCA is hosting a golf tournament, partnering with Diablo Country Club and Lexus of Pleasanton/Lexus Champions for Charity. Foursomes will be assigned a golf professional,. Social hour and live auction offer players the opportunity to bid on a package for participation in the National Lexus Champions for Charity golf tournament. All proceeds will benefit the YMCA scholarship fund. For registration information, contact jfmcafee@mdrymca.org or call the YMCA at (925) 609-9622.

MAY 22 19th Annual Dana Hills Community Garage Sale 9-1p.m. Sponsored by Lori Hagge, Allice Ponti & Larry Schafer, Century 21 Realty JUNE 3-6 Contra Costa County Fair 1201 W 10th Street, Antioch, info@cccfair.org

APR. 3,4 Semi-Annual Used Book Sale @ Clayton Community Library The Clayton Community Library Foundation used book sale is Saturday, April 3 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday April 4 from 12- 4 p.m. Most books on sale for $.50! Books are ½ price on Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.Clayton Community Library Foundation Members only preview will be Friday, April 2 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Purchase memberships at the door. Proceeds support library programs and purchase books and materials for the Clayton Community Library. 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton

APR. 1,8,15,22,29 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting 10 a.m., 5 & 6:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. Prospective members welcome. Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord.

800/326-8450 x2023

APR. 3 Fertilizer & Soil Presentation & R&M Pool, Patio and Gardens 10 a.m. Fertilizer and Soil Presentation by Industry Expert Tom Priest. Informative rundown on fertilizers & soils for the garden.

All questions will be answered. Presentation repeated on May 1.

APR. 1,8,15,22,29 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker. Oakhurst Country Club. www.claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

APR. 1 Sons in Retirement Monthly Meeting @ Oakhurst 12 noon. Sons in Retirement John Muir Branch 19 holds its monthly meeting on 1st Thursday of month. Oakhurst Country Club. 672-6418 APR. 13 GFWC Clayton Valley Woman’s Club 9:30 a.m. coffee, meeting at 10:00 am with lunch following.

Clayton Valley Woman’s Club meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. Mary Tarantino, 798-3152.

APR. 24 Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Afternoon Tea and Fashion Show 1 p.m. Donation $25. All proceeds benefit Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Charities. Reservations call 689-6649, Holy Cross Lutheran Church corner of Alberta Way and Ygnacio Valley Road APR. 29 Clayton Business & Community Association Monthly Meeting 6:30pm. Monthly dinner meeting on last nonholiday Thursday of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon. Oakhurst Country Club. Ed Hartley 672-2272

BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT Mar. 30, Apr. 6, 13, 20 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900 APR. 6, 20 Clayton City Council Meeting @ Clayton Library 7pm. City of Clayton City Council meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of month. Open to the public. Clayton Library Community Room. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 APR. 8 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 APR. 13, 27 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. Clayton Library Community Room. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304 APR. 29 Clayton Business & Community Association Meeting, Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting on last non-holiday Thursday of month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon. Oakhurst Country Club. Ed Hartley 672-2272

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION APR. 18 Clayton Valley High School Open House 6:30-7:30 p.m. for new students and families to find out about school, 7:30-8:30 p.m. for current families and students to visit classrooms.

APR. 20 Parent Faculty Club Meeting (PFC) @ Mt. Diablo Elementary 7:00 p.m. This is the place where you can come and voice your concerns, comments and suggestions on ANY subject and help make decisions on how the money you raise gets spent. As a parent of a child attending Mt. Diablo Elementary, you are automatically a member of the PFC and your input is valuable!

Please join us and help make a difference. Child care is provided for this event. Agendas and minutes are posted on the web site. If you would like to have a specific item included on the agenda, please contact Rosy Straka at rosystraka@yahoo.com or 672-3200. http://www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/mountdiabloelementary APR. 25 DVMS Jazz Band To Perform at Disneyland Twenty-five musicians of the Diablo View Middle School Jazz Band will perform on the Plaza Garden Stage in Disneyland. The band members will also participate in a Soundtrack Session in a Disney Sound Studio. To raise funds for the Disneyland trip the Diablo View Jazz Band will host a Guest Artist Concert on Wednesday, March 31 at 7:00 p.m. in the Multi-Use Room at Diablo View Middle School. The Concert is open to the public and tickets will be on sale at the door. For advance purchase tickets, please call 925-672-1066.

The Community Calendar is sponsored by

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

1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Suite D, Clayton 94517; Phone (925) 672-4333 www.CallTheVanFleetTeam We are proud to support the Children's Miracle Network, an alliance of premier hospitals in North America.

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

March 26,2004

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 11

Religion PLACES OF WORSHIP The Pioneer wants to know what is happening in your parish, congregation, temple, synagogue, mosque or other place of worship. Tell us about your ministries, upcoming activities or notable members. Send your news items to Clayton Pioneer, PO Box 1246, Clayton 94517 or e-mail religion@claytonpioneer.com.

BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON On Friday, March 26, Shabnam Koirala speaks about the relationship between education and socioeconomic development in her talk Participation, Collaboration & Social Change. Ms. Koirala grew up in Kathmandu, Nepal. She currently lives in Berkeley, where she is completing a doctorate in education. For the past three years, she has been involved in a participatory research project with the Nepali community in the Bay Area. All are welcome. For more information:672-6686.

CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN This year’s 7 p.m. Good Friday service is interactive in nature. The service uses paintings and other objects placed around the sanctuary to invite participants in a self-guided, hands-on and creative way to reflect on the seven

last words of Christ.

The congregation again hosts a 6:30 a.m. sunrise service on Easter Sunday morning at Diablo Valley Ranch. This popular service consists of singing hymns, sharing testimonies, praying and hearing a sermon. In past years, both congregation members and visitors have enjoyed this experience. After the service, The Ranch invites all to gather in the cafeteria for hot drinks and doughnuts. For more information: 672-4848.

ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY On Thursday, April 1, at 7:30 p.m. Fr. Bernie Bush, S.J. speaks about the social teaching of the Catholic Church and current social issues in the light of the Gospel. Fr. Bush discusses the practical love that requires serving the poor and oppressed of the

world.

During Holy Week, St. Bonaventure will celebrate Holy Thursday with the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, including the washing of the feet and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. On Good Friday, the service includes the reading of the Passion, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion. The Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday will begin with the lighting of the Easter Fire at 8:30 p.m. and includes the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Holy Communion and Confirmation.

For more information: 672-5800.

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL On Sunday, March 14, the Right Rev. William E. Swing, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of California, celebrated the Sunday morning worship service.

Bishop Swing has served this diocese, which comprises the five

Unity is central to Baha’i

BY Karen Laible Clayton Pioneer

The central theme of the Baha’i Faith is unity and the oneness of mankind. In Clayton, a devoted group of Baha’i followers regularly meet together in the homes of members for prayer, education (both spiritual and secular) and fellowship.

Baha’is follow the teachings of Baha’u’llah, the prophet-founder of the Baha’i faith. Baha’u’llah lived in Iran in the nineteenth century and Baha’is believe that he was the most recent in the line of messengers from God which includes Abraham, Moses, Krishna, Buddha, Zoroaster, Christ, Muhammad and the Bab. Baha’is believe there is only one God and that the revelations of God’s will through these messengers, or prophets, have been the chief civilizing force in history. In the Baha’I Faith, the messengers are believed to have served as intermediaries between God and creation; they were sent to renew spiritual teachings in languages understandable to the people and to introduce fresh sets of social teachings applicable to the times in which they lived.

From its beginning in 1844, the Baha’i Faith has grown to be the second largest independent world religion. It can now be found in 236 countries, territories and islands throughout the world.

In the United States there are 1, 178 local Spiritual Assemblies.

The national Baha’i House of Worship in the United States is in Wilmette, Illinois.

In addition to the prolific writings of Baha’u’llah, Baha’is study the holy books of all the major world religions. The faith promotes world unity through understanding and cooperation among all the religions of the world.

Baha’is believe that the purpose of religion is to unite, never to divide. Among the principles promoted by the Baha’i Faith are the abandonment of all prejudice, the realization of equal rights and privileges for all women and men, the value and necessity of universal education and the need for adherence to high personal moral standards.

Baha’i parents are strictly forbidden to impose their religious beliefs on their children. Baha’is believe that children are to be taught a well-rounded religious education without prejudice and with an emphasis on family life and moral values. When children reach the age of 15, they are encouraged to choose their own spiritual path. Children are taught that service to mankind is of primary importance and later in life, many of these children choose to devote at least some period of time to the service of others.

The Baha’is of Clayton assem-

bly formed about three years ago.

Whenever nine or more adults of the Baha’i Faith reside in a town or area, a “local spiritual assembly” is formed. The assembly consists of nine people who are elect-

Karen Laible RELIGION EDITOR ed once a year. These nine members assume the administrative responsibilities for the local

group. There is no clergy in the Baha’i Faith; it is believed that people at this time in the history of the world have enough knowledge and education to search for truth and interpret sacred writings on their own.

The Baha’i Faith has its own calendar year, consisting of 19 months of 19 days each, or 361 days. The extra four or five days (in leap year) are added between the 18th month and the 19th month to adjust the calendar to the more widely used Gregorian Calendar. These “extra” days each year are special times of prayer and service to others. The Baha’i year begins each spring on March 21. The last month of the Baha’i year (from March 2 through March 20) is a special period of fasting. During this time, Baha’is do not eat or drink for 19 days from sunrise to sunset, setting aside time for prayer and medita-

counties of the Bay Area, for twenty-five years; his “cathedra,” or “bishop’s chair,” is the beautiful Grace Cathedral at the top of Nob Hill in San Francisco. During his visit to St. John’s, the Bishop spoke of the Episcopal Church’s tradition of full inclusion of all persons and the affirmation of all committed human relationships.

During Holy Week, several special traditions continue at St. John’s. On Holy Thursday, a Lenten tree (a brittle Christmas tree) is stripped to make a Good Friday cross. The cross is then decorated with fresh flowers from members’ homes on Easter

Sunday. Throughout Lent, a pine coffin is filled by parishioners with sticks and stones. The contents of the coffin represent their own personal burdens. At the conclusion of the Good Friday service, these sticks and stones are incinerated or buried. The Sacrament of Holy Baptism is

administered on Easter Eve. For more information: 672-8855.

ST. MARTIN OF TOURS St. Martin of Tours is a traditional Anglican Church using the 1928 Book of Common Prayer. All are invited to Easter Day services.

For more information: 680-1613.

A welcoming place and sacred space where thinking minds and caring hearts truly grow in faith

SAINT JOHN’S PARISH T HE E PISCOPAL C HURCH

IN

C LAYTON

Sunday Worship: 8 & 10 a.m.

5555 C LAYTON R OAD

Q

C LAYTON

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

BISHOP SWING, of the Episcopal Diocese of California

St. Bonaventure Catholic Community invites you to celebrate Holy Week and Easter with us Holy Thursday, April 8

tion.

The local Baha’i Community of Clayton holds meetings based on the Baha’i calendar. The group holds a Feast (a meeting based on spiritual, administrative and social aspects) on the first day of each Baha’i month—every 19 days. All community members gather for these evenings. Baha’is also meet throughout the year for special holy day celebrations.

The Baha’is of Clayton are a very welcoming, friendly group of dedicated people. They welcome newcomers to the group at any time, from any religious background.

9 a.m.

7 p.m.

Morning Prayer Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper

9 a.m.

Noon 4 p.m.

7 p.m.

Morning Prayer

Good Friday, April 9 “The Seven Last Words,” presented by Fr. Tom Allender

Stations of the Cross for Families Celebration of the Lord’s Passion

Holy Saturday, April 10 9 a.m.

Morning Prayer 8:30 p.m. The Easter Vigil

Easter Sunday, April 11 Masses at 5 a.m., 7 a.m., 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. in English.

1 p.m. in Spanish.

St. Bonaventure Catholic Community 5562 Clayton Road, Concord 672-5800

Take an Easter Break with your friends at

Clayton Community Church Sunday, April 4 at 12 noon

Giant Easter Egg Hunt for kids ages 2-11

Diablo View Middle School Soccer Field Co-sponsored with the YMCA (Church Gathering in the gym at 9 and 10:45 a.m.)

Thursday, April 8, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Citywide Communion Service to remember the Passion of Christ

Holy Cross Lutheran Church invites you to Holy Week Services Palm Sunday - 8 and 10:30 a.m.

Maunday Thursday - 7 p.m.

Good Friday - Noon and 7 p.m.

Easter Sunday 9 a.m. Continental Breakfast 10:30 a.m. Easter worship service with string quartet

Holy Cross Lutheran Church 1092 Alberta Way in Concord at the corner of Alberta Way and Ygnacio Valley Road

Telephone: 686-2000

Diablo View Middle School Gym

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We meet at Diablo View Middle School in Clayton where Clayton Road and (upper) Marsh Creek Road meet For more information, call 673-9060 or visit our Website at www.claytoncc.com

Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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RENTAL NEEDED JUNE 11THROUGH JULY 10. Home, apartment or condo in Clayton. Going on vacation? Would you like to rent your home to my parents who are visiting from Australia? Your home would be very well taken care of, perhaps left cleaner than left. Please contact Collette @ 925-5240305.

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LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Web site.

Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.

HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page.

Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517.

Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone.

Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability.

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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.”

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Painting Katy Chapel

BY CHARLENE HONEYCHURCH Special to the Clayton Pioneer

I decided to paint this sweet chapel in Katy, Texas, for two reasons. First, it is a wonderful subject and would be a delightful addition to almost any decor, and second it is a good building in which to demonstrate the basics of painting buildings and home portraits. Learn the fundamentals with this chapel and then try a picture of your own home.

One basic concept to remember in any landscape (with or without a building) is to start with your furthermost background: example, start with the sky, then mountains and then the distant trees. You then work your way forward. Building layer upon layer as you get closer in range.

If your buildings are large, (especially light colored) you’ll want to sketch them lightly in so you can paint most of the background around them.

I paint my portraits from photos. I usually get one photo of the whole building, then a distant shot with any interesting landscape or support buildings, and lastly a close-up of the house’s special features that I want to note (i.e.: lamp, door, weathervane, etc.) Enlarge the photo of the house to the size you want the painting to be.

There are three ways this can be achieved: Use an artist’s enlarger, projecting the image onto tracing paper, then sketching the outline of the house onto the tracing paper. Include the placement of doors, windows, chimneys.

Smaller details can be sketched freehand.

Sketch the whole house freehand Enlarge the photo using a printer, and then trace it onto tracing paper.

Remember that this is folkart so the small imperfections that may occur when you freehand add to the charm and character of the piece. When the sketch is complete, retrace in ink.

Preparation: Whether your surface of choice is wood, canvas, Masonite, or an old wooden box, the surface needs to be clean, smooth and given a coat of primer or gesso. Let that dry.

For the chapel and most of my paintings, I base with two coats of white. Let the first coat dry. Then while the second coat is still wet, touch the corner of a large flat brush in your sky color, Cape Cod blue. Starting at the top, work your way down the painting in large sweeping motions back and forth with the sky getting lighter as you

progress downward.

Trace on your horizon (where the ground starts), any mountains and the outline of the building. You don’t want any dark colors behind the white chapel.

Grass: I have based all the

grass and shrubs in black green.

Leave a strip of white between 1/4 to 1/2” to indicate a walkway. Using an old scrubby flat brush, dry brush leaf green in a pouncing motion, (like stenciling) over the black green. Don’t make it too even, the light and darks show the rises and dips in the grass, carry this up and slightly over the walkway. For the grass nearest the Chapel, highlight and texture with Timberline Green. Shade the lawn to the left of the chapel with Christmas green, indicating the chapel’s shadow. Leave the lawn immediately under the chapel black green for the deep shadowing. Give texture and shape to shrubs by using the same scrubby brush and by drybrushing in that same pouncing motion in forest green; then with the same dirty brush highlight and add more shape and depth

with leaf green.

Sideload a 1/4” angle brush in thinned black and shade the topside of the walkway.

Chapel: Base the roof in with walnut. Highlight the sunny side with thinned white

using a large angle brush.

Tape off the walls of the chapel to be shaded. Using a large flat brush and very thinned black, shade in all front-facing walls. The windows of the chapel and belfry are to be painted in black.

Using a good angle brush and black thinned with a flow, medium shade the areas following areas. Around the door, the entire window trims, the edges of all the walls, the eves, the stairs and the banisters.

After the windows are shaded then load a liner with white and paint the detailing of the windows. Highlight the window trims if necessary.

Belfry: After highlighting the roof, draw the edge of your angle brush straight down to indicate the ridges of the roofline. With a fine liner loaded

Page 13

Welcome to the first of our new feature on the arts. The Pioneer is interested in our readers’ art and crafts projects. If you would like to contribute to this column, please call Tamara Steiner at 6720500 for more information. with walnut, paint the cross.

Moving down to the belfry’s windows, dry brush white with a 3/4” rake brush across the black to suggest shutters or slats.

Put the pattern back on and finish tracing in the details of the foreground. The steps and banister, the lamp post, the trees and the sign.

Steps and bannister: Base in the steps in walnut. The tops of each step is painted black, and the bottom of white. The banister is based in white. The shading from the chapel will show through the slats and indicate spacing. Shade with thinned black the top and bottom of the vertical slats to show separation with the top handrails.

Lamp Post: Base in the bottom of the lamp post in black.

Highlight the right side with a thinned white on your small angle brush. Use the sharp edge of your brush to emphasize details under the globe. Paint the globe a thinned white with some shading at the top to show shape, then give it a double “c” stroke for highlight.

TREES: All three trees are based in walnut. The shading is done in the thinned black and the highlights are done with light cinnamon; then use a thinned white, being sure to be consistent with the light source.

Tree #1 is only the trunk and spindly branches with a few brown leaves clinging to its tips.

Tree # 2 is small and a solid green. The range is from black green, then forest green, finally leaf green. As the color lightens, gyou use less of it. The leaf green is only on the right side (facing the light source.)

Tree #3 is the tallest. The colors are the same as Tree #2, but the leafing isn’t as dense. The leaves on both trees are done in the same manner as the grass and shrubbery.

Sign: The sign frame is based in black, the inside is white and the brick foundation is light cinnamon. With a fine liner, paint the cross and the lettering in black. Reload the liner in white and lightly indicate the grout between the bricks. Load

the angle brush with a thinned walnut and lightly indicate the sporadic placement of darker bricks.

Shade with the small anglebrush sideloaded in thinned black the inside of the sign, and the upper overhang of bricks on the foundation. Using the same brush reloaded in white, highlight the top and right side of the sign and the foundation.

Supplies: Canvas or board approximately 16x12”, Delta Ceramcoat Acry-Blend, Delta Gesso, painters tape, tracing paper, graphite paper, black

Reprinted with permission from ToleWorld Magazine

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Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

McCann,

From Page 1

stages, McCann carries her binder and cell phone with her at all times. The players involved in this simulated crash scene and events that follow are almost too numerous to mention from the law enforcement personnel and medical staff to the local hospitals, businesses, service clubs, parents and school faculty,. With the program only two weeks away, Laurie’s phone never stops ringing. She doesn’t get much sleep and the meetings are endless. Her 13 year-old son Michael says it best. “Every 15 minutes, someone calls about ‘Every 15 Minutes.” Laurie recently attended College Park High School’s two-day program where three students passed out during the assembly. McCann talks nervously about the kid’s

Council,

From Page 1

A California voting record

March 26, 2004

reaction and stresses the importance of carefully positioning crisis counselors throughout the stadium and gym during the program. “I don’t watch what’s going on on the field or in the gym. I watch the kids,” she says. She worries about the kids who try and hide their faces, or the students who fidget uncontrollably, or the ones who just can’t deal with the experience.

Her family has gotten used to the calls and the meetings and the sleepless nights. McCann has been involved in some sort of youth drug and alcohol program for the past 18 years. She got involved with the Parent Education Program (PEP) at the local elementary and middle school when her daughter was in kindergarten. She wanted to do something, but couldn’t see herself “cutting out circles” in a classroom. “That wasn’t my cup of tea,” she says. “If it didn’t effect at least 100 kids, I wasn’t

interested.”

So she teamed up with PEP. The PEP is an intense nine to 12 week program where parents train to become facilitators in the classroom for drug and alcohol prevention. Discussions revolve around peer pressure, bullying, good choices and poor choices and issues that are sensitive and sometimes difficult to talk about. “We get to talk to the kids the way teachers can’t,” says McCann. We hear what’s going on and we learn where we can make a difference.” She’s taken the training and re-certification classes, facilitated in the classroom and coordinated the program.

McCann is quick to point out that she’s not a one-woman show. She shuffles through page after page of volunteers for the Every 15 Minutes program.

There’s Sherry Watkins who organizes all of the area high schools that use John Muir med-

ical Center during the two-day program. Sherry co-chaired with Laurie at Clayton Valley two years ago. There’s Mark and Judy Hall who are in charge of the command center and assemblies. Concord police officer Nancy Vedder coordinates the police action. Pamela Newacheck handles all the media. Patti Collyer orchestrates the retreat for the 32 student participants. Markstein Beverage Co., Contra Costa Crisis Center and CVHS Vice Principal Dr. Adeyinka Fashokun, are actively involved. They work together for one purpose….to reduce the number of alcohol-related traffic fatalities among youth.

The name of the program came from the fact that in the early 1990’s someone in the United States died every fifteen minutes in an alcohol-related traffic collision. The death rate is now one every thirty minutes.

The cost of the program (between $8 and $10,000) is covered entirely through grants and donations Principal Neary swears by the program’s success. He’s had parents tell him that they no longer drink and drive after experiencing Every 15 Minutes.

He’s had kids tell him they’re sober because of the program.

“It’s not foolproof.” Neary explains. He recalls that a student, who was one of living dead in the program two years ago, was drunk at graduation.

“If we save (only) one, and I know there’s been more, we’ve done our job”. Laurie agrees.

She’s had kids tell her that they’ve gathered car keys from their friends who were drinking at a party. Others made decisions not to go to the popular local party scene. McCann is passionate about what she does.

“It’s my job. It’s the best thing I’ve done since I got married

and had kids,” she says. And what keeps her going? On the cover of her binder is a photo of a police officer and his daughter, friends of the McCanns. The father died, and then later a drunk driver hit his teenage daughter, right after Clayton Valley hosted their first “Every 15 Minutes” program. The teen survived and is still recuperating.

Neatly tucked away in the front of McCann’s binder are thank you notes from kids who have particpated in the program.

During the past 18 years of her involvement with drug and alcohol prevention, McCann has kept every single card and note from the young children and teens that she has served.

was established when ninetyone percent of Clayton’s 364 registered voters approved incorporation of Contra Costa County’s 13th city on March 3,

1964 in Endeavor Hall. Clayton residents wanted local control of planning and development. They worried about development quality and density and the commercial “strip zoning” racing their way. They did not oppose development, but after many futile hearings in Martinez and elsewhere, they wanted to retain the semi-rural ambience of the Upper Clayton Valley.

In 1959, some leading Clayton citizens discussed incorporating Clayton to “retain its historic identity and rural atmosphere” through local control of land use planning and zoning.

They were Randall “Chubby” Humble, owner of the Pioneer Inn; George Murchio, land owner; M. F Ohman, general manager of Pittsburg’s Dow Chemical plant; Judge Wroy Renaghan; and Lawrence Wallace, real estate appraiser.

Appointed to their committee were Henry White, Martinez Hospital administrator; Thomas Grundy, Eldora Hoyer and

Robert Kuntz.

Although an initial incorporation attempt failed in 1960, when two quarry properties requested exclusion, the “Clayton Revolution” was rekindled in 1963 by an impending annexation that would divide the town and forever prevent incorporation of historic Clayton.

News of a “cherry stem” annexation using streets and the Clayton home of Concord’s city attorney to access Cardinet Glen [the subdivision of homes near City Hall on Wallace and Cardinet] was seen in an obscure paragraph of the Oakland Tribune by Clayton’s Nan Wallace on March 3, 1963, who alerted Clayton residents and formed an incorporation study committee.

To delay the Concord annexation long enough to explore alternatives, shocked Claytonians immediately filed notice of intention to begin incorporation proceedings.

Many residents circulated petitions and Eldora had the honor of delivering the papers to the county offices in Martinez to place it on the ballot. James Conley walked house to house collecting contributions for election expenses and ended up with enough extra money to buy a flag for city meetings. This time the proposed incorporation area excluded large properties whose owners, wanting Concord sew-

ers, could be expected to withdraw their lands and defeat the attempt to bring incorporation to a vote. It was hoped that future residents would annex to Clayton later.

While exploring alternatives to incorporation, the Clayton Incorporation Committee managed to have the Concord annexation attempt withdrawn because of irregularities, but it seemed evident that annexation attempts would continue.

Clayton residents decided to bring incorporation to a vote feeling that it must be done “now or probably never.”

At 8 p.m. on March 3, 1964, Sigrid Frank, a 69 year old Clayton “old timer” who was the poll inspector, stepped onto the front porch of Endeavor Hall, rang a brass bell, and in traditional style proclaimed, “Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The polls are closed.” The incorporation workers were tired but hopeful and euphoria built as the votes were tallied, with community “watchdogs” looking on. On top of the hill above town, Ken Byrd and Richard Hamb began ringing victory news across the valley with Clayton’s old school bell. The community had successfully declared it’s independence on March 3, 1964 in that historic vote.

Clayton’s first official meeting was March 18, 1964, when the council was sworn into office

by Judge Wroy Renaghan with a

large crowd in attendance.

George Abbott and Al Liming drove to Sacramento to file the incorporation papers directly with the Secretary of State, to ensure prompt processing.

Maurice Huguet, Jr. was hired as city attorney and Marguerite Ellingson became the city’s part time clerk. Huguet was then the youngest city attorney in Contra Costa County.

Our inaugural Planning Commission consisted of Joe Wallace, chairman, Joe Swicegood, Beth Laurence, Charles Levine and Howard Sumerlin. William Walker, a professional accountant, was appointed the first City Treasurer. Clayton’s city letterhead, still in use today, was designed in 1964 by Bob Hoyer with art by Ray Hare, a Clayton Valley High School art student.

Clayton’s standing among other jurisdictions grew with its activity on county, district, and regional boards and commissions and in the League of California Cities. In 1966-67 Clayton’s mayor chaired the Contra Costa Mayors’ Conference, and Clayton’s part time clerk was Conference secretary. Clayton was represented at the 1967 National Mayors’ Conference in Honolulu (at no expense to Clayton). Clayton councilmen and appointees filled many key roles and influenced regional decisions affecting Clayton.

On Clayton’s first anniversary, the City received a resolution from the County Board of Supervisors commending the City on its first year and “its efforts to comply with the wishes of its citizens in terms of community life, and for its forward looking actions related to balanced development.” The resolution noted that Clayton was incorporated to “maintain a careful balance between progressive development and preservation of one of the most scenic landscapes in the central part of Contra Costa County.”

Mayor’s note: I want to extend a special “Thank You” to Eldora and Bob Hoyer for taking the time to help me with the facts for this article. We can all be especially grateful to all of the residents who worked so hard circulating petitions, organizing and holding hearings to ensure that Clayton remained such a wonderfully unique city for all of us. Many of those who served on the incorporation committee are still around - take the time to tell them “Thank You!”

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Spring prescription for optimal skin care The signs of spring are everywhere—cherry blossoms flutter in the breeze, wild mustard dazzles against brightgreen hills, forsythia and daffodils splash in yards and fields. Like the goddess Persephone, spring has returned in all her glory and serves to remind us that refreshment and renewal are at-hand.

SPRING CLEANING As in any time of year, the prescription for optimal skin care includes cleansing, hydrating, protecting. Each day our body shed tens of millions of dead skin cells. Some get loofahed off in the shower, some tumble into the carpet as we walk through the living room, contributing to the collection of debris we call house dust and which in turn are consumed by nature’s little scavengers, the dust mite. (Shall we talk about the thousands of dust mites living in the pillow you rest your head on each night? Uhm . .

The lion roars

BY BETH NEUDELL Clayton Pioneer

The Lion King roars in San Francisco’s Orpheum Theatre through September 5. Under the direction of Broadway’s Julie Taymor and choreographer Garth Fagan the play sizzles in the heat of the African sun.

My son wanted to do something else the weekend we had tickets and my husband could live the rest of his life without seeing another musical. My daughter likes musicals so she was excited about seeing the play.

I was just hoping it would live up to the wonderful reviews I’ve heard. I insisted we go together because, like many families, we split up on weekends and rarely do things together.

We were richly rewarded for our efforts with an unforgettable experience. The sets are simple, which allow the lions and other animals to be the stars. The costumes are the most amazing I’ve seen in a play and include puppets and masks that blur the distinction between human and ani-

.let’s not.) At any rate, cleansing is a healthy habit that doesn’t change from one season to the next; but an important adjunct of cleansing—exfoliation—runs on a strict timetable, according to sun exposure.

Some of the professionally administered exfoliation processes involving the delicate areas of the face, neck and decollate increase sensitivity to sun exposure, so if you’re keen on this type of skin refreshment, the time to act is now.

RENEW Mild exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells without irritating the skin, removing barriers that allow moisture and special care products to work more efficiently. By removing surface layers, we stimulate new cell growth to help maintain a healthy, viable dermis.

We do this everyday—scrubbing, rubbing, scouring, brushing, scratching, washing and generally bathing. But, unless mal. Giraffes graze across the stage on their awkward legs (stilts) eliciting the image of a herd moving across the Serengeti. The result is magical.

My favorite character is Scar, the evil, twisted lion. His costume has vivid red stripes and a lion head mask above his head that pivots in front of his face when he bends forward. His every movement suggests discontent and malice as does his voice.

Keep in mind this production is not for small children. The stampede scene is loud and scary and Scar is deliciously evil.

Everyone recognizes the music from the animated Lion King movie. From the very beginning, the fusion of the orchestra, the sun shimmering on stage, and Rafiki’s chanting raises the music and score to a high-

we take a strictly scientific and systematic approach to exfoliation, we’re not necessarily going to remove that top crust of skin—the horny layer—with any great efficiency. Some of those millions of cells left behind build up, creating a dull barrier to the boatloads of lotions we spend jillions on and apply with religious fervor in the attempt to make our skin soft, supple and dreamy again.

But, because the surface skin cells are dead, applying every conceivable cream, oil and vitamin is not very effective in altering the health or appearance of the surface of the skin.

These cells absorb little, so while moisturizers do offer some prevention against further dry skin at the surface, they do not have a long lasting effect.

The trick is to eliminate the dead wood so to speak, so the lotions can get in and do some

CYNTHIA GREGORY

LOOKIN’ GOOD actual good.

REJUVENATE What can a good peel accomplish? A trained esthetician can apply an acid solution to slough away dead cells and reduce the appearance of fine lines; even out skin tones, especially helping to erase hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure or hormones; skin texture is refined, enlarged pores appear smaller, the appearance of superficial scars may be reduced; allowing the skin to radiate a healthier glow.

Chemical peels can vary in strength and depth of penetration. A series of spa or salon treatments will yield excellent results requiring virtually no recovery time. More intensive

Page 15 the trouble and expense of turning back the hands of time and erasing the results of environmental exposure, it is imperative to do all you can to prevent further damage. Wear at least a SPF 30 facial sunscreen daily.

A moisturizer containing SPF 15 isn’t enough. Layering moisturizer and foundation which both contain SPF 15 is better, but optimal protection results from a physical barrier of SPF 30 on top of these other products. It is critical to use appropriate sun protection—for immediate and future care of your beautiful skin.

medical-grade peels are available through your dermatologist or plastic surgeon, but can require from several weeks to several months to recover a “normal” appearance.

Microdermabrasion is exactly what it sounds like: controlled abrasion of the skin that involves blowing fine grains against the surface to eliminate dead cells, not unlike sandblasting fine marble to eliminate the stains and abuses of time and nature. Our European cousins began using microdermabrasion in the middle 1980s, a practice that has finally caught on here, with vigor. Microdermabasion can accomplish the same results of a chemical peel, but more immediately.

Cynthia Gregory holds a master's degree in fine arts and is a California licensed esthetician.

She combines the surprising aspects of teaching English at Solano College and practicing esthetics at Permanent Solution, in downtown Clayton. Reach her at ceegregory@aol.com.

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Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 26, 2004

Clayton Sports Clayton area sports shorts PIONEER

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Local soccer, basketball, volleyball, hockey, cheerleading, wrestling, softball, football and baseball tryouts, clinics and special events are aplenty, giving local residents a variety of sports activities to choose from.

Monica Powers

CVAA FALCONS FOOTBALL & CHEERLEADING SIGNUPS Clayton Valley Falcons will be taking signups for football and cheerleader squads in March and April for the 2004 season. Boys and girls seven to 14 years-old are eligible to register for the season that runs from August 1 through Thanksgiving weekend.

Signups will be Saturday, Apr. 4 at the Safeway in Concord on Clayton Rd./Denkinger Rd. from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and this Saturday, Mar. 27, and again Apr. 10 at Country Waffles in Clayton from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The last signup will be Apr. 15 at Aladino’s Pizza in Clayton from 6-8:30 p.m. For more information visit www.cvaafalcons.com or call 927-7377.

This month‘s Rocco’s Pioneer Athlete Spotlight shines on Monica Powers of Carondelet High School. The versatile freshman athlete from Clayton is being featured for her exploits on the basketball court where she is a starter for the State Champion Carondelet Cougars. The amazing thing isn’t that Monica could earn a starting spot for the #1 team in the State as a freshman, but that basketball isn’t even her favorite sport!

She actually prefers to play water polo, where she started every game for Carondelet last fall as the Cougars reached the North Coast Section semi-finals. At the start of basketball season Monica learned the Carondelet system before moving into the starting lineup as a forward and staying there for the final 13 games.

“She has a forward’s body but a guard’s mindset,” says Carondelet varsity basketball coach Margaret Gartner. Since moving into the starting five Monica has used her 6-0 frame to provide good defense and toughness on the boards.

“We feel she gets her great passing ability and toughness from water polo. We know we’re just borrowing her from water polo,” Gartner adds. The coach anticipates Monica moving to the backcourt next year when the NCS championship team’s lone senior, Lauren Russi, graduates.

“Monica practices with the guards. She’s very versatile and enjoys shooting the 3.” Monica has been a long-time member of the Dana Hills Otters Swim Team and was a CYO basketball and track standout prior to starting high school this past September. Her older sister Alicia helped the Cal Bears volleyball team to the NCAA Regionals last fall.

MDSL GIRLS SOCCER TRYOUTS Tryouts for Mt. Diablo Soccer League U15 Girls and U18 Girls Class 1 teams are scheduled for 9-11 a.m. at Ygnacio Valley Park April 3.

Please visit WWW.MDSLSOCCER.ORG or call 672-3532 for additional information.

Favorite subject: Health Favorite sport: Water Polo Favorite band: Maroon 5 Favorite team: Los Angeles Lakers

DVSC SOCCER TRYOUTS Diablo Valley Soccer Club will be holding tryouts April 58 for boys and girls of all soccer skill levels in ages Under 15 through Under 19 (born Aug. 1, 1985-July 31, 1990). DVSC will be having teams with professional trainers in all age groups from under 9 through under 19. DVSC has Class 1 and Class 3 teams in every age group. For more information call 229-DVSC or go to www.dvsc.com, where you can

Favorite Athlete: Erika Lorenz and Peter Varellas (water polo players) Favorite movie: Top Gun The Clayton Pioneer spotlights a local youth athlete from our circulation area in the second issue each month. And Rocco’s congratulates the athlete with a free family pizza.

If you are a coach or 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. Deadline for nominees for our April 23 issue is Monday, April 12.

Romano, from page 1

LET'S GO BOWLING

mistaken impression that his favorite superhero, The Flash, was going to be in attendance.

Jared, I’m sorry to say that he was a tad disappointed once I explained the difference between The Spark and The Flash.

Actually, it was hit or miss up until parade time. In true Yankee fashion, he held out for a private batting coach, first pick of the snacks and a guaranteed “clean up” spot in the bat-

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register (no charge) for tryouts in advance.

DVSC SOCCER ACADEMY FALL LEAGUE REGISTRATION Based on the success of its popular DVSC Soccer Academy, the Diablo Valley Soccer Club is introducing a new Soccer Academy Fall League program this year.

Registration is now being accepted for boys and girls in the Under 6 through Under 8 age groups (born Aug. 1, 1996 through Dec. 31, 2000). Learn to Play the DVSC Way where every one will train, learn and play. The program combines trademark DVSC professional training with a fall soccer league concentrating on skills development. Team rosters will be 6-8 players each with smallsided games to maximize ball touches and player development. For registration packet (there are no tryouts) call 229DVSC or visit www.dvsc.com.

YMCA HOSTING VARIOUS SPORTS @ CLAYTON GYM Concord/Clayton Branch of Mt. Diablo Region YMCA will be holding a variety of leagues and programs in the coming months at Clayton Community Gym. Coed leagues for ages 18 and older runs Apr. 7-June 9 for soccer and Apr. 1-June 3 for volleyball. Outdoor soccer league for pre-K through eighth grade is Apr. 17-June 19 and floor hockey league Apr. 19June 28. Men’s 3-on-3 and 5on-5 basketball leagues for 18 and older is Apr. 4-June 20 and for 40 and older is Apr. 5-June 21. For registration and other information call 889-1600 or www.mdrymca.org.

CLAYTON VALLEY FOOTBALL CAMP Clayton Valley High School’s coaching staff will be holding the 3rd annual Clayton Valley Youth Football Camp June 21-25 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. ting order. Thrown in to sweeten the deal was a private chauffeur (me), cleat cleaner (me), valet (again, me), and a personal water “toter”. (This position used to be referred to as “water boy” but some how “water broken down father” seemed unflattering.)

While the negotiations were taking place, Mr. October busied himself with his GameBoy. I believe there was a time not so long ago when kids would take advantage of a lull to toss the old cowhide around, play a little pepper or pick sides for a quick scratch game. Instead, the boys crowded around the GameBoy as Coach Steve and I loosened our arms while discussing the finer points of contract negotiations.

Thankfully, in the end, an agreement was reached and he donned the Yankee jersey just in time to join his teammates as they proceeded onto the track.

The remainder of the festiv-

for boys and girls entering grades 5-9. Campers will be split into 5th-6th, 7th-8th and freshman groups to learn fundamentals and techniques of football. Cost is $125 for the first 150 campers. Registration forms are currently available at Mavericks Sport Club, Ed’s Mudville Grill and Linguini’s Restaurant. For information call Eagles head varsity football coach Herc Pardi at 682-7474, ext. 3115.

www.romaniaanimalrescue.4ever.cc

YOUTH WRESTLING PROGRAM IN CONCORD Community Youth Center in Concord is holding freestyle and Greco Roman wrestling practices for youth in kindergarten through 12th grade. Call 671-7070 or visit www.concordyouthcenter.com for schedule.

CONCORD BOCCE REGISTRATION

TERRAPIN SPRING BREAK SWIM CLINIC, SIGNUPS The Terrapins are offering spring clinics at their Concord facility for summer recreation swimmers who want to get a jump on the summer season. A one-week camp April 5-8 is for all competitive swimmers ages nine and older. The camp will be taught by Terrapin Head Age Group Coach Paul Stafford and Terrapin staff. Camp to include classroom and in water instruction. For more information contact Paul Stafford at 925-6808372, ext. 206. The nationallyranked Terrapins are also taking signups for swimmers ages six and above of all levels for their year-round swim team. For information call 680-8372, email terrapinswim@msn.com or visit www.SwimTerrapin.com.

ROMANIA ANIMAL RESCUE GOLF TOURNEY

Romania Animal Rescue, Inc. will be holding a golf tournament Apr. 26 at Oakhurst Country Club with proceeds helping send UC Davis students to Romania this summer to spay/neuter stray street dogs.

Cost is $160 per person and includes green fees, cart rental, box lunch, awards dinner, raffle prizes and auction items.

Reservation deadline is Apr. 12.

For information call Rory Janes at 672-5908, e-mail romaniadogs@joimail.com or visit

ities was uneventful, mainly because I missed the festivities.

I had to fulfill my volunteer duty as a Photo Day Kid Wrangler immediately following the parade. Fortunately I was able to bribe The Spark to run me over some Kettle Korn.

I must remember to include a Kettle Korn addendum in next year’s contract.

Joe Romano is a Clayton resident and freelance writer.

You can reach him at jromano01@yahoo.com

CVLL 2004 Major division games began last Sat., Mar. 20, with all the other divisions taking their first official swings this Sat., Mar. 27.

The 2004 CVLL season features nearly 1000 players on 73 teams in 12 divisions for boys and girls, ranging in age from five to 18 years in softball and baseball.

CVLL games conclude June

Concord Bocce Federation is taking team registrations for the summer bocce ball league at Newhall Park. Teams must have a minimum of six players and not more than 10.

Registration is $150 per team.

Call 675-5263 for details.

CLAYTON GYM OPEN FOR BASKETBALL & VOLLEYBALL Concord/Clayton Branch of the Mt. Diablo YMCA is offering basketball open gym for all ages Monday, Thursday and Friday nights and volleyball open gym for all ages Tuesday nights at Clayton Community Gym. Call 889-1600 or visit www.mdrymca.org for more information.

CONCORD ADULT SOFTBALL REGISTRATION

Concord Parks and Recreation Dept. is taking team registrations for their spring and summer adult softball leagues. Men’s, women’s and mixed leagues are being offered. Call Concord Parks and Rec at 671-3279.

LAS LOMAS HIGH SEEKS FOOTBALL COACHES Las Lomas High School is looking for a head freshman football coach and staff. For information call LLHS head coach Doug Longero at 9354110, ext. 2219 or e-mail Dlongero@Acalanes.k12.ca.us.

12. The champions in Minor A & B, Majors, Softball and Junior leagues advance to the District 4 Tournament of Champions. The CVLL season is divided into two halves. If a team wins both halves they automatically go to the TOC. If there are different first-place teams in the first and second halves of the season a one-game playoff determines the TOC representative. In addition, the league has now added a four-team league playoff at the end of the regular season to allow the four highest placed teams the opportunity for one or two extra games.

Area baseball supporters are invited to see the San Francisco Giants play the Colorado Rockies on Fri., May 28, and help CVLL. Tickets are $23 per person, with CVLL receiving fundraising support for every ticket sold. To purchase tickets, contact Joel Harris at joelharris@aol.com, 672-3332 (home) or 757-4605 (work).

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Choosing the right pet When adding a new dog or cat to your family, there are many practicalities to consider.

Would you like a new baby who requires frequent meals and lots of training, or are you looking for a mature pet who has been temperament-tested and whose size and appearance will not be a surprise?

What is your lifestyle – are you a homebody or a traveler?

Cats tend to be solitary and adjust well to being left alone for longer periods of time than a dog. An indoor kitty will also have a litter box, so potty breaks are not an issue.

Kittens are typically the most active, however be sure to check with the shelter staff regarding the kitten’s personality because kitties are real individuals. Adult cats generally get along well with young children. These wise felines are

capable of leaping to the top of a bookshelf when play becomes too rough and tumble, while a kitten may be overwhelmed and bite or scratch, perhaps even being injured.

If you are considering a dog, it is important to be realistic about your schedule and activity level. The best dog for an avid hiker is quite different from the perfect companion for a person who likes to curl up with a book.

Knowledge of the American Kennel Club (AKC) groups may be helpful in determining which breed or mixed breed will best fit your lifestyle.

Sporting Group Dogs, such as the Irish Setter, Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever, are best known for their hunting instincts in the water and forest. They have a gentle nature and make great

family pets, however without regular exercise they can become overweight diggers, chewers and barkers.

The Hound Group includes the Blood Hound, Afghan and Beagle. When Elvis Presley sang “You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog” he must have been referencing that although hounds love people, these dogs follow their instincts and may be a challenge to train and keep safe at home.

The Working Group includes the Akita, Mastiff and Portuguese Water Dog. These dogs have helped humans through the ages however their strength and training requirements may make them unsuitable pets for the average family.

The Terrier Group has dogs who are feisty and energetic like the Cairn Terrier or the

larger Airedale Terrier.

Terriers make delightful family members and are best suited for a family prepared for a challenge and armed with consistent training habits and a sense of humor.

The Toy Group includes such favorites as the Chihuahua, Pomeranian and Toy Poodle. Although small, these little dogs often have a big attitude. They prefer constant companionship and may travel on most airlines as carryon “luggage” that slides under the seat.

The Non-Sporting Group includes the Boston Terrier, Chow, Dalmatian, Tibetan Spaniel and Bichon Frise.

These dogs vary in personality, size, shape and coat.

The Herding Group includes the Border Collie, Australian Cattle Dog and

Page 17 Welsh Corgi. These dogs make excellent companions if they are well trained, although their herding instinct can be very

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PAWS

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problematic. The image of a Corgi (less than 12 inches tall at the shoulder) driving a herd of cows by leaping and nipping at their heels may be worth considering if you are attracted to herding dogs.

I have worked and lived with cats, purebred dogs and

mixed breed dogs for over 40 years. I love them all for a variety of reasons. Purebred dogs make lovely family members, though many are performance–driven animals needing jobs to be kept happy and out of trouble. Most mixed breed dogs reflect the characteristics of the different breeds they resemble – perhaps mellower in their behaviors and easier to live with.

Consider your own lifestyle as you search for a new feline or canine family member. After all, you are selecting a friend for life. In the words of Roger Caras, “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole”.

Brenda F. Barnette is the CEO of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She has been helping bring animals and people together to enrich each others’ lives for decades and can be reached at bbarnette@arf.net.

ARF Pet of the Month “EMILY” is a snuggly, loving three-year-old Lab/Hound mix who was out of time at a public shelter. She is outgoing and is easy to train with yummy treats. Emily is recommended for families with children (or grandchildren) of all ages.

Bring everyone who will live with Emily – including any canine family members – to meet her at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek during

adoption hours: 2 to 7 PM Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 PM Saturday and Sunday.

ARF rescues wonderful dogs and cats every week.

Visit our website on Wednesday evenings to see the new, fabulous rescued animals available starting Thursday. Come to ARF to meet your new best friend!

(925) 256-1ARF. www.arf.net.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 26, 2004

Hikers’ and Skiers’ Haven

Whistler-Blackcomb Resort in British Columbia, Canada

KEVIN PARKER

“Whistler” was coined from the local alpine marmot who “whistles” to communicate.

The four of us—Grant Dillon, a fulltime SBC Salesman and part-time free skier, Heather Burns, a crafty home improvement whiz and dog lover, and Krista Parker, my all around navigator, budget monitor and travel companion—met in Walnut Creek on a lazy Thursday afternoon. We prayed for snow, scrambling to

get us to the airport.

We departed from Oakland Airport, made a brief layover in Seattle, and were on the ground in Vancouver before we realized we were on vacation. The 2-1/2 hour bus-ride up to Whistler Village is the first of many benefits this trip has to offer. Horseshoe Bay and Squamish are just a few of the highlights.

Once in the village it becomes apparent what makes

Some call it the largest ski resort in North America, while others grin about a ski season that stretches from November until late May, but I’d call it “Disneyland for Grown-ups”.

A winter utopia created for those of you looking to get away and enjoy what could be the ultimate destination ski resort.

This area was originally a fishing destination in the 1920’s until Garibaldi Lifts Limited was formed in 1960.

Thereafter, Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains were separate ski resorts until they merged in 1997 to create one of the biggest mountain resorts in the world. The name

find our passports, and checking and re-checking our gear which would require a suburban loaded to full capacity to

this destination so popular among travelers. I believe Whistler-Blackcomb Resort’s greatest attractions are as follows: The Mountains. 5280 vertical feet of skiing laid over two separate mountains (only one lift ticket required to access both), boasting 360 inches of annual snowfall, 33 chairs, 200+ trails, four snowboard parks, two half-pipes, 17 mountain restaurants and a seven-mile glacier run.

Whether you love skiing or snowboarding, they have all the steeps, deeps, chutes, bowls, glades, corduroy, cruisers and gentle rollers you

OUTDOORS WITH KEVIN

could ask for.

The Village: A lively, European style village located right at the base of the ski resorts. For those of you who take their après-ski and nightlife as seriously as your skiing, grab a Kokanee Beer or two and figure out how to dance in your ski boots.

Restaurants, shopping, bars, nightclubs and too many specialty shops to list line the streets of the village. From women in fur-coats to young hipsters celebrating a great day on the mountain, all walks of life are present in the village.

Things to do: There is a saying up in Whistler: “You come for the winters, but you stay for the summers.” There really is something for everyone. Winter activities include snow sports, snowmobiling, Helicopter-skiing, dogsledding, fishing, sleigh rides and Ziptrek Tours. Summer offers mountain biking, hiking (my personal favorite), golf, horseback riding, river rafting and so many others; I’d need a full page of the next issue to list them all.

One of my favorite experiences during the trip was definitely skiing Blackcomb Glacier’s seven mile run. The skiing, mind-boggling, the open expanses of the glacier itself, hard to imagine, but the scenery is a constant reminder that every once in awhile, nature gets it exactly right.

Don’t believe me? Come see for yourself.

Here are a few of my personal picks: E ATS : Mongolie Grill, Teppan Village, Casa Tapas, Whistler Brew House Savage N IGHTLIFE : Beagle, Garibaldi Lift Company, Tommy Africa’s

donna’s gifts Quality Gifts and Collectibles

Hop on over and fill your Easter basket with fun and beautiful

Photos courtesy of Kevin Parker

TWO VIEWS OF THE “ULTIMATE SKI DESTINATION” in British Columbia. At left, Whistler Mountain. Above, The Ice Falls. and Garfinkels M UST S KI -R UNS : Blackcomb Glacier (7 mile run), Sudan’s Couloir, Blow-hole, Backstage Pass, Dave Murray Downhill and Spanky’s Ladder A CCOMMODATIONS : LeChamois, Painted Cliffs, The Aspens, Glacier M UST D O : Fresh Tracks Breakfast So as I sit at the Longhorn, beer in hand, smile on my face and a slow burn in my entire lower body from skiing 95,000 vertical feet in four days, it is

impossible to overlook the intense beauty of this place.

Whistler Mountain, Blackcomb Peak, Overlord Glacier, Cheakamus, Garibaldi and Spearhead Mountain are just a handful of the majestic peaks found here. Nature’s beauty at her best with an alpenglow to make anyone stop dead in his tracks and stare in amazement!

Email Kevin Parker at kaypee@sbcglobal.net

It’s all smiles at Dr. Mason’s

gifts and collectibles.

Bring this ad in for 15% off gift items* *Does not include certain collectibles Offer expires 04/23/04

672-2440

Clayton Valley Shopping Center (next to Yardbirds)

Dr. Christina Mason, left and receptionist Candace Norwood

Changing Smiles…Changing Lives Whether you need routine dental care or advanced reconstructive procedures, we approach your dental needs with an attitude of caring, concern and respect.

Let my expert team, relaxing environment and progressive techniques change your mind about dental care.

“It is a strange and wonderful feeling to have the confidence to smile broadly and to wake up without a major tension headache. I promise to wear my mouth guard every night and protect the beautiful work that you, Dina and the rest of the your staff worked so hard on.”

-Tom Henley "A year ago I treated myself to a dental "makeover" by Dr. Mason. I am delighted with the result! I would recommend this office to anyone, both for general dentistry and the cosmetic dentistry miracle."

- Janet Easton

Free teeth whitening with initial exam Exp. 4/9/04 Some restrictions apply

Christina P. Mason D.D.S.

Call Today!

925-672-1559

Dr. Christina P. Mason D.D.S. 5433 Clayton Rd., Ste. J, Clayton In the Safeway Shopping Center www.claytondentist.com

When patients tell you that they really look forward to their dental visits, something special is happening. At Dr. Christina Mason’s dental office in Clayton Station, the atmosphere is calm and inviting with a color scheme and furniture that add to the warm appeal. The all-female staff is helpful and compassionate and cares about each patient individually. “When you have trust, there is no pain,” says one patient. “They make you feel so comfortable, so tranquil, so secure and so confident,” says another.

Mason is soft spoken but exudes confidence in herself and her professional approach to dentistry. Her office handles a wide variety of services from routine dental care including check ups and teeth whitening to advanced re-constructive procedures and full mouth rehabilitation. Dr. Mason cares for patients of all ages and especially enjoys serving families. A graduate of San Francisco State University, Mason has practiced dentistry in the Clayton Station since 1995.

March 26,2004

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 19

Rents starting at $1,675* *Studio Apartments for qualified applicants

Newly built on the cusp of Clayton Valley, Áegis of Concord’s resort-like setting is the perfect place to call your new home.

Complete with all the amenities usually found only at luxury hotels, Áegis provides independence, comfort and total peace of mind.

Come tour Contra Costa County’s finest senior living community, call today for an appointment.

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Studios and 1 bedroom apartments ranging from 425 sq. ft. to 840 sq. ft.

Spacious 2 bedroom apartments ranging from 1000 sq. ft. to 1680 sq. ft.

Month to month rentals State-of-the-art theater Restaurant style service in our beautiful dining room Overlooking Newhall Park Fitness center, swimming pool and outdoor fireplace Full-service day spa Concierge service Assisted living services available

'Aegis

Located on Clayton Rd., between Treat Blvd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd.

Senior Living

of

RCFE Pending

Concord

Marketing Showroom Now Open M

F i9

5

S tS

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Page 20

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

March 26, 2004

“What I love most about the Bay Area is that I discover something new every day.

The possibilities are truly endless. From the past-paced city life to the abundance of outdoor activities, there’s always something to keep me excited for each day.”

F

rom the Bay Bridge to the foothills of Mt. Diablo, the East Bay Area is quite simply one of the most diverse places in the world to live. Whether you’re talking about the various landscapes, where opportunities lie around every corner, or the wide array of people, all looking to make the most of every moment, it’s a truly great place to call home.

Just ask Lynne French. A longtime resident of the East Bay Area

When you call Lynne and successful local real estate F rench, be sure to request professional for over a decade, she a free copy of her special knows what makes this area spe- report “Home Buyers: How cial. That’s why she works so hard to Avoid Paying Too Much.” to help others make the most of This valuab ble information can save you precious time their unique opportunities here. and money as you prepare Whether you are buying or to make your move. selling, Lynne French is your best resource in the unique and often (925) 672-8787 complex East Bay real estate mar- www.LynneFrench.com ket. Give her a call or visit her Lynne@LynneFrench.com Web site today and make the most out of your East Bay Area real estate experience!

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

Clayton, CA 94517 Walnut Creek, CA 94596

GEORGE VUJNOVICH,

Broker

(925) 672-4433

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

georgevujnovich.com IRONWOOD AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

CHAPARRAL SPRINGS AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

Just Listed Stunning" Gorham" model! 3 bedrooms, 3 baths plus huge downstairs bonus room, 3 car garage & inside laundry room. Neutral décor throughout! Living room offers an upgraded travertine tile fireplace and views of the hills & city to Delta! Large family room with a recessed media nook & fireplace with raised hearth & gas logs. Gourmet kitchen boasts upgraded hardwood floors, maple cabinets, granite tile counters/island & pantry with glass door.

Spacious master suite features double door entry & use of upgraded marble tile in bath-tub surround, shower & counter-tops plus an enormous walk-in closet! $859,000

Desirable single story "Augusta" model!

3 bedroom 2 bath approx. 1816 sq ft. Neutral carpet and décor. Many upgrades including tile floor in the entry, and semi vaulted ceilings in the living room. $579,000

Prime golf course lot! 3 bedroom, 3 bath, approx.

1709 sq. ft. Gorgeous views of Mt. Diablo, surrounding hills and golf course. Gourmet kitchen with tile floor and counters. Full bedroom and bath downstairs. $ 489,900

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB !

FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

OAK HOLLOW AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

G DIN N E P

Beautiful Balboa Model! 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths apx.

4018 sq feet. 1 bedroom and 1.5 baths downstairs , extensive upgrades thru out this home include tile entry, gourmet kitchen with Corian counter tops, wet bar, and breakfast bar, walk in pantry and abundance of maple cabinets. Huge family room with built in entertainment center, neutral carpet and décor .

Quiet private lot. $999,950

G DIN N E P

Striking home on preium view lot! 4 bedrooms 3 full baths, appx. 2843 Views to the Delta and beyond, downstairs den with French doors, family room features a stacked stone fireplace, master suite features a retreat and a balcony with sweeping views. Secluded yard with a covered patio, and lush lawn. $769,000

D SOL

Immaculate home! Views of Mt. Diablo! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths apx 1651 sq.ft. Home features inside laundry, beautiful neutral décor and Berber carpet thru out. Large eat in kitchen with tile counters ,maple cabinets and hardwood floors.

Larger private backyard with aggregate patio and lawn area. Walk to downtown,pool and trails.

SOLD over list at $515,000

Just Listed! Fabulous “Moonlight” model!

One story, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 2,237sf, & 3 car garage. Upgraded beveled travertine floors in entry, hall, kitchen, family room & baths. Neutral décor, carpet & custom window coverings. Gourmet kitchen features granite tile counters (incl: full back-splash), island & maple cabinets. Family room with travertine fireplace, built-in speakers & wired for surround sound.

Great views from cozy front porch. Rear yard backs to oak studded open space & features a custom patio, lawn area and a variety or ornamentals. $689,000

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

D SOL

Beautiful Nantucket Model! 4 bedrooms 2.5 baths, plus bonus room., apx. 3620 & 4 car garage ! Extensive upgrades thru out the home including custom hardwood floors in the living and dining room. Spacious family room with separate playroom. Gourmet kitchen with an abundance of maple cabinets and walk in pantry. Upgraded tile floors, counters & island with built in breakfast bar. Backyard features sparkling pool and spa with automatic cover. SOLD over list at $915,000