MAY 15 Clayton Pioneer 2015 by Pioneer Publishers

Memorial Da Remembran y ce Monday, May

10 a.m. on Main 25 Street

Speakers, music

, JROTC rifle te am FREE event sp onsored by VFW Post 1525 and Korean W ar Veterans Cha pter 264

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

925.672.0500

WWII exhibit celebrates 70th Anniversary of war’s end CLAYTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY Special to the Pioneer

DAVE SHUEY

MAYOR’S CORNER Downtown property not selling; city may consider mixed use “For Sale, attractive downtown parcel nestled in charming western town nestled at base of Mt. Diablo. Perfect for…?” Many of you know that the City of Clayton owns the largest remaining parcel of vacant land downtown. This parcel is part of and covered by our Downtown specific plan and is zoned for retail development. It is part of the vision first set down decades ago, but has never been developed. It is now being marketed by Transwestern brokers and, despite their best efforts, a buyer/developer has not yet emerged for the hoped for retail use.

See Mayor, page 8

Pete Barra

VETERANS OF VFW POST 1575 PROUDLY POST THE COLORS AT THE OPENING of the Clayton Historical Society’s special exhibit to mark the end of WWII. The exhibit will remain on display through Veterans Day.

May 8, 1945 was a day for celebrating the end of World War II in Europe, called V-E Day ever since. The joy was short-lived when Americans quickly remembered that there was still a brutal war going on in the Pacific Theater. Fortunately, less than four months later, V-J Day (Victory in Japan) was declared and the world rejoiced. Seventy years to the day, on May 8, 2015, the Clayton Historical Society Museum hosted a celebration of its own as they honored and remembered the veterans of WWII with the grand opening of the newest special exhibit, WWII. Local veterans attended the opening, which was held from 7 until 9 p.m. on V-E Day. A color guard kicked off the evening and the “Star Spangled Banner” was performed by Clayton soprano, Mechele Fong. The guests of honor were the first to see the exhibit, which is made up of mementoes from the war and the home front and

See WWII Exhibit, page 9

City to cut water usage by 40% PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

Get ready, Clayton. Brown is the “in” color for summer, at least for lawn and turf. Residents and communities across the state are mandated to cut their water usage by at least 25 percent this summer, the fourth year of a historic drought. The City of Clayton is no exception, as they are cutting back water usage a whopping 40 percent from 2013 levels, said City Manager Gary Napper. “The state’s extended drought represents a serious challenge for all in California and requires each resident and property owner in Clayton to prioritize one’s water consumption habits,” he said. “For the city, our 40-43 percent reduction in water usage, in comparison to the 25 percent reduction assigned residential users, necessitates staff evaluate which water-dependent assets and facilities are the more essential to retain and operate.”

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

TAKE A GOOD LONG LOOK—THIS IS A SIGHT CLAYTONIANS WON’T SEE FOR AWHILE. The Clayton fountain has gone dry and will stay that way indefinitely, another casualty of the drought and the governor’s mandate to cut water use by 40 percent. Drinking fountains in the parks and the new water feature in The Grove are also turned off to meet cutback requirements.

For example, he said, landscaped plants and specimen trees will be the targets of the city’s limited outdoor irrigation

at the sacrifice of lawn and turf. The two-days per week outdoor irrigation constraint imposed on residents by the Contra

Costa Water District last month also applies to the city and “we’ll undoubtedly see visual stress to trees and plants as the

hot summer days set in.” “It is no longer ‘business as usual’” he said. Clayton residents will undoubtedly see the stress on lawns and turf, but some areas, such as The Grove Park and some downtown areas, are served by well water, and can be watered three times a week. The main area that will be affected, according to Clayton’s Maintenance Supervisor Mark Janney, is the Community Park and fields, which will only be watered twice a week. “They won’t look so great,” he said. Historically, Janney said, the city uses about 300,000-400,000 gallons per day, but it has been cutting back that usage in recent years due to the drought. So cutting nearly half of that will definitely impact what the residents

See Water Cuts, page 9

Book a date at the Farmers’ Market

What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Community Calendar . . . . .16 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 School News . . . . . . . . . . .10 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Mayor Dave Shuey, tossed out the first cabbage of the season Saturday to mark the opening of the Clayton Farmers’ Market. Back for a second year is the growing cookbook exchange that will gradually expand to include gardening, composting and produce books. Bring your books and “leave one, take one.” It’s a bit early in the season, but several local farms were on hand with cherries, strawber-

ries and the last of the season’s asparagus. In the coming weeks, look for locally-sourced honeycombs, fresh cut floand the ultimate comfort food, chicken n’ waffles. All Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association farmers’ markets accept WICFMNP (Woman, Infants, and Children Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program) coupons and CalFresh EBT.

See Market, page 5

MAYOR DAVE SHUEY (center) assisted by his children Catherine and Bennett (each end) were joined by Farmers’ Market staff and fellow council members Julie Pierce and Keith Hayden at the opening of the Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market last Saturday.

MDUSD board president injects more controversy into Charter saga JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Mt. Diablo Unified School District board president C h e r y l H a n s e n thrust herself MDUSD BOARD PRESIDENT into the midCHERYL HANSEN dle of the year-long Clayton Valley Charter High School controversy when she sent a letter and two emails to the Contra Costa County Office of Education urging the county to revoke the charter and immediately return Clayton Valley to MDUSD because of “incompetent, corrupt and dysfunctional” administration and board. Hansen said she was writing as a “long-time public educator and Clayton resident,” yet signed her Feb. 25 letter as President, Mt. Diablo United School Board. Clayton Valley was granted charter school status for the 2012-13 school year after charter leaders went to the county when the MDUSD board refused to approve their charter application. Hansen points out she was the only Mt. Diablo district board member to vote in favor of the CVCHS proposal in 2011. In the past six months Hansen was pulled into the charter school controversy because her boyfriend Bud Beemer, a retired school

See Hansen, page 8

Postal Customer ECRWSS PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Around Town Sarah Owen earns Girl Scout Gold Award

SARAH OWEN

Sarah Owen, daughter of Kirsten and Brin Owen of Clayton, earned her Gold Award – the highest honor in Girl Scouting, and equivalent to the Boy Scout’s Eagle rank. Sarah, who has been a member of Troop 31100 since she joined Girl Scouts in 2003 as a Brownie, aligned her Gold Award project closely with her future plans. Her career goal is to become a physical therapist.

Desmonds celebrate 60 years together

Clayton realtor honored by Coldwell Banker

She is passionate about health and fitness and she understands the need to educate others about a healthy lifestyle, particularly the youth of today. This passion drove her to create and organize the first annual 5K Run and Fitness Fair in Clayton with the help of her advisor, Pam Hall, City Council member Julie Pierce, thenMayor Hank Stratford and other city leaders. The event took place at Clayton Community Park with a 5K, a Fun Run and a Fitness Fair with more than 350 runners that donated 757 pounds of food for the Contra Costa and Solano County Food Bank. Sarah is a senior at Clayton Valley Charter High School and a member of the Public Service Academy. She will be attending Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo as a Kinesiology major in the fall while continuing her community service down there.

Clayton’s Stephanie happy to have her as a Lopez, a sales associate in member of Coldwell Coldwell Banker’s Walnut Banker Residential Creek office, has earned Brokerage.” membership in the ColdLopez has been well Banker International with Coldwell Diamond Society. Banker since Febru“It is with great pride ary 2013 and focuses that I honor Stephanie with on the communities STEPHANIE the Coldwell Banker Interof Clayton, ConLOPEZ national Diamond Society cord and Walnut designation,” said Mike Creek. She is an James, president of Coldwell Accredited Staging Professional, Banker Residential Brokerage. Coldwell Banker Previews Prop“Stephanie’s ability to go above erty Specialist and a member of and beyond, and to surpass her Coldwell Banker’s Top Drawer clients’ expectations, has helped Relocation Team. her achieve this prestigious award. Lopez can be reached by telephone She is a dedicated and committed at 925-305-9099 or e-mail her at real estate professional and we are Stephanie@myDynamicRealtors.com

Volunteers keep the library bookin’

Lindermans cruise through 50 years of marriage Clayton couple and high school sweethearts Mike and Karen Linderman had their 50th anniversary on May 2. They were married in Torrance, Calif., moved to the area in 1980 and raised a daughter, Cami, and a son, Chad. The Lindermans will celebrate with family and friends this summer on a cruise to Catalina and Mexico.

Photo Tamara Steiner

COUNCIL MEMBER JULIE PIERCE (center) with the library volunteers sharing Volunteer of the Year awards for years of service: Jeanne Boyd, Joyce and David Atkinson for 25 years; Carol Wolfe and Viola Liang for 20 years.

Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell since 1979 Better Homes BRE#00933393

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

George Vujnovich,

Broker, Clayton Resident

(925) 672-4433

cell: (925) 348-5700 georgevujnovich@sbcglobal.net

Immaculate & Spacious home located on a large lot! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 updated baths, approx. 2483sf & 3 car garage! Living and dining rooms with soaring ceiling, neutral carpet & silhouette blinds. All baths have been updated featuring sleek contemporary styles & design including vanities, faucets & lighting. Spacious kitchen adjoins family room with fireplace. Huge master suite with updated bath & large walk-in closet with organizer system. Private lot features a large lawn area & aggregate patio $779,000

Jennifer Stojanovich Lifelong Clayton/Concord Resident

(925) 567-6170, jenstojanovich@yahoo.com

www.jenniferstojanovich.com Cal BRE #01446062 Father/daughter team

Don, Realtor-Associate, Clayton Resident Emily, Realtor-Associate

(925) 408-3184

(925) 408-1871

Donald.kent.howard@gmail.com

howard.emily05@gmail.com

howardhomeseastbay.com Cal BRE #01846446 & Cal BRE#01938441

Diane and Bill Hayes Realtor-Associate, Clayton Residents,

(925) 890-4701, Dianemariehayes25@yahoo.com

homesbydianehayes.com

P E ND IN G

Beautifully updated single story rancher on a HUGE level approx. .46 acre lot! tucked away at the

end of the court, backing to creek with RV parking. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1407sf. Rural Country feeling yet located in the center of town. Gorgeous updated gourmet kitchen boasts slab granite counters, honey maple shaker style cabinets & stainless steel appliances. Updated baths boats extensive use of slab granite, tumbled tile and river rock! Upgrades include: Dual panes, thick baseboards, light fixtures & deco paint. Extensive RV/Boat/Toy Parking, 2 storage sheds. Backyard features patio area & composite deck, large lawn area, play structure, fruit trees & raised garden beds!

provided by Better Homes Realty

stairs bedroom and full bath! 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 1709sf with inside laundry & 2 car garage. Gleaming laminate wood floors flow from entry into living & dining rooms. Designer paint colors. Sun filled dining & living rooms with volume ceilings. Beautifully updated bath. Walk to downtown $529,900

1007 Feather Circle – Clayton Oak Hollow at Oakhurst Country Club! Desirable “Santa Fe” model! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1886sf. Well maintained open floor plan with neutral décor. Private backyard with covered patio. Walk to community pool and downtown Clayton! $659,000

201 Falcon Place – Clayton Windmill Canyon at Oakhurst Country Club! Lovely “Larson” model! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 2467sf. Desirable downstairs bedroom & full bath. Updated gourmet kitchen has granite counters & stainless steel appliances. Beautifully landscaped private back yard is designed with entertaining in mind. Coming Soon

4 Clark Ct. – Concord Spacious Single Story nestled in a priv. court! 4 bed, 2 ba, approx. 1881sf. Approx. .29 acre lot. Coming Soon

$625,000

SOL D

1262 Shell Circle, Clayton Chaparral Springs Premium Large Golf Course Lot

$524,000

$599,000

Cal BRE #01222762

Clayton Market Update

Chaparral Springs at Oakhurst Country Club! Impeccable "Willow" model! with desirable down-

8016 Kelok Way – Clayton

5230 La Corte Bonita – Concord

Denny and Dee Desmond, 21-year residents of Clayton, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this month. The two were married on May 7, 1955 in St. Cecilia Church in San Francisco. They have been active members of St. Bonaventure’s Catholic Church for more than 50 years. Along the way, they have volunteered in the Meditation Garden and worked with assisting elderly parishioners with shopping and errands. They are members of the Diablo A’s Model A Ford Club and frequently drive their Model A pickup on club tours. Their children are Mike and Reggia Desmond of Clayton, Tracy Desmond of Concord and Peggy and Steve Henry of Oroville. They have four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

1341 Shell Lane – Clayton

1900 Shadywood Ct. – Concord

Falcon Ridge at Oakhurst Country Club! Meticulous “Moonlight” model Single story on a prime view lot offers Sweeping Unobstructed Views of City to Delta & Beyond! 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 2237sf & 3 car garage. Gourmet kitchen features granite counters complimented by tumbled marble backsplash & maple cabinets adjoining family room is anchored by a travertine gas fireplace. Private lot features aggregate patios & walkways, lush lawn, & mature trees! $775,000

Cal BRE #00933393

Don and Emily Howard,

If a dollar value were placed on the 6,450 hours donated to the Clayton Library by a cadre of volunteers in 2014, the total would amount to almost $170,000, said Library Foundation President Joyce Atkinson in her 2014 annual report to the Clayton City Council on April 21. The volunteers contributed more hours than any other library in the system, said Atkinson. “The library operates with 60 percent of normal staffing, the volunteers do the rest.” The Foundation also raised over $48,000 from used book sales, memberships and donations. The Library Foundation welcomes new volunteers and members. Meetings are on the third Wednesday of the month at 7:30 in the Library Story Room. For more info, go to www.claytonlibrary.org.

G P E ND IN

www.georgevujnovich.com

Broker-Associate,

Photo courtesy of the Desmond family

Dee and Denny Desmond on their wedding day in 1955.

ADDRESS

PRICE

350 Blue Oak Lane . . . . . . . . . $826,000 . . . . .2448 1550 Haviland Pl . . . . . . . . . . . $600,000 . . . . .1549 120 Gold Rush Ct . . . . . . . . . . $625,000 . . . . .1591 788 Bloching Cir . . . . . . . . . . . $790,000 . . . . .2325 115 Oak Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,475,000 . . .3662 110 Shale Cliff Ct . . . . . . . . . . $1,050,000 . . .2700 1234 Buckeye Terrace . . . . . . $640,000 . . . . .1639 4801 Keller Ridge Dr. . . . . . . . $475,000 . . . . .1595

BED/BATH SALE DATE . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . . . .5/4/15 . . . . . .3/3 . . . . . . . . . .5/1/15 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . . .4/30/15 . . . . . .5/2.5 . . . . . . .4/28/15 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . . . .4/26/15 . . . . . .4/3 . . . . . . . . .4/25/15 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . . .4/24/15 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . . .4/23/15

ADDRESS

PRICE

810 Chert Place . . . . . . . . . . . $500,000 . . . . .1235 1015 Feather Cir . . . . . . . . . . . $610,000 . . . . .1638 1036 Pebble Beach Dr . . . . . . $975,000 . . . . .3307 112 Mount Etna Dr . . . . . . . . . $518,000 . . . . .1442 316 Mt. Palomar Pl . . . . . . . . . $753,000 . . . . .2692 1103 Oakwood Cir. . . . . . . . . . $1,090,000 . . .4180 604 Julpun Loop . . . . . . . . . . . $501,000 . . . . .1235 1262 Shell Cir . . . . . . . . . . . . . $524,000 . . . . .1709

BED/BATH SALE DATE . . . . . .2/2 . . . . . . . . .4/23/15 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . . .4/20/15 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . . .4/17/15 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . . .4/17/15 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . . . .4/15/15 . . . . . .4/3.5 . . . . . . .4/10/15 . . . . . .2/2 . . . . . . . . .4/10/15 . . . . . .3/3 . . . . . . . . .4/10/15

May 15, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

ts r e c n Co e Gr ove h T in

Around Town ‘Village’ neighbors continue Local students honored to grow in numbers for their Integrity

Saturdays 6 to 8:30 p.m.

At the Gazebo in The Grove Set up chairs and blankets on the lawn after 4 p.m.

May 23 Big Band Beat – San Francisco’s legendary party band modern rock, the Motown sound, the girl groups, disco/funk and more!

June 6 The Boys of Summer – The best Eagles tribute band this side of the Rockies,

June 20 Mustache Harbor Classic hits from the 70s and 80s Christopher Cross, Steely Dan, Ace, Kenny Loggins and The Little River Band

July 4 Plan B Celebrate the 4th of July with Clayton’s own Plan B!

July 18 Loose Blues BARBARA HALPERIN LIFTS A GLASS OF VIANO VINO at the CV Village ‘Taste of Spring’ event April 12 at Oakhurst CC.

Plays rockin' blues, rock 'n roll, R&B, and rockin' country to make you dance

Watercolors and wine highlighted the day at Clayton Valley Village’s “Taste of Spring” fundraiser at Oakhurst Country Club on Sunday, April 12. Paintings and photography by Northern California artists, along with wine from local vintners were appreciated by the more than 80 attendees. Local

sings the classics of Sinatra, Elvis, Justin Timberlake & even Lady Gaga

Diamond Dave –

Aug 1

merchants stepped up with prizes for the raffle and auction, and hardly anyone went home empty-handed. Event chair Sonja Wilkin declared the afternoon a success, and a boost for the further development of the organization whose goal is to help neighbors remain in their homes as they age.

Stumped at the border? This menacing looking fellow is not in Oz. And, he won’t throw apples at passing cars. He and his partner are really quite friendly as they stand watch over the town’s eastern edge. The two are the latest creations from Ed Waraner’s (Waraner Bros. Tree Service) chain saw. A jaunty little bunny also greets hikers on the Cardinet Trail and a regal-looking Smokey Bear stands in front of the Sunshine Fire Station.

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

CITY CELEBRATES KIDS FOR DOING THE RIGHT THING at the May 5 Council meeting. Diyar Kudrat, Ashlyn Givens, Alyssa Van Horn, Samuel Sidhu, Julie Deely, Mayor Shuey; Standing in front are MDE’s Erin Robinson and Dylan Gordillo-Wright.

Aug 15 Fundamentals high-energy stage show, 3 dynamic, lead vocalists, “Red Hot Rockin’ Soul”

Aug 29 Forejour – Pays tribute to the music of 80s mega bands Foreigner& Journey

The library meeting room was packed to the rafters at the May 5 City Council meeting with the proud parents and families of seven outstanding local kids honored for their “Integrity” as part of the community-wide Do The Right Thing initiative. “This is the best thing the city has done,” said Mt. Diablo Elementary principal Irene Keenan as she introduced Dylan Gordillo-Wright and Erin Robinson, both fourthgraders nominated by their teachers. Both students were lauded for their kindness and honesty. Diablo View Middle School Patti Bannister commended Diyar Kudrat and Julia Deely for consistently making good

decisions. “In middle school it isn’t always easy to make good choices,” said Bannister. “These students hold themselves to higher standards.” Three Clayton Valley charter students were among those receiving the awards for “fully engaging in the world in a meaningful way.” Alyssa Van Horn, Ashlyn Givens and Samuel Sidhu all “make their peers their better selves.” The Do The Right Thing program emphasizes six character traits on a rotating basis throughout the year: Courage, Integrity, Responsibility, Selfdiscipline, Kindness and Respect. Students are nominated by their teachers and presented with a certificate by the mayor.

Sept 12 East Bay Mudd 10-piece cover dance band with a powerful 4-man horn section

Thursdays

7 to 8:30 p.m.

Thurs. Concerts end promptly at 8:30pm

June 11 July 2 Aug 6 Aug 20 Sept 3

Lafayette Studio Big Band The Relyks Jam Daddy PHD’s Crossman Country

For more band information, go to www.cityofclayton.org. Chairs and blankets may be set out after 4 p.m. on concert days.

PENDING

523 Ross Circle, Martinez

$599,950

The Meadows – Completely updated home with 5BD/3BA 2,316 sqft. 1Bd/1BA on main level. Remodeled gourmet kitchen with granite counters, tile floors, stainless appliances. Brazilian Cherry hand scraped floors in living & dining room. Large backyard with built-in kitchen, hot tub, outdoor fan & great views.

1027 Pebble Beach Drive, Clayton

954 Maplegate Court, Concord

430 Meadow View Lane, Clayton

Coming Soon

2254 Sugarloaf Court, Brentwood

Cal BRE#01939535

$639,000

Portofino Estates – Stunning 4BD/2.5BA 2,745 sqft single story home on 14,100 sqft lot. Gourmet Chef Kitchen with granite counters, Tile floors, built in appliances and a pantry. Master Bathroom has tile floors, Granite Counters, Granite tile shower stall, sunken tub. Too much to list.

4618 Imperial Street, Antioch

Crystyl Ranch – 5BD/4.5BA 4,132 sqft with Bonus Room. Master Bedroom Suite on Main Level. High End upgrades from the hand scraped hardwood floors and Granite Kitchen Counters to the custom shutters throughout.

$1,195,000

Morgan Territory – 4BD/3.5BA 3,689 sq.ft. Custom Showcase Home. This spectacular home has a Chef's Dream Gourmet kitchen with cherrywood cabinets, granite/quartz counters, wolf range. Porcelain floors throughout main level. Panoramic views of Mt Diablo and surrounding hills 5 Car Garage, Wine Cellar.

$1,100,000

Peacock Creek – Luminous 4BD/2.5BA 3,307 Sq.ft. boasts charm and elegance on a picturesque setting. Gourmet Garden view kitchen with Family Room. Back yard is Entertainers delight with outdoor kitchen/BBQ grill, Built-in Spa and breath taking panoramic views

$534,000

Monterra – 4BD/3BA 3002 sq.ft home on one of the largest lots in the neighborhood. Nearly a half an acre! Panoramic View of the delta from the yard. Moments from Parks, shopping, HWY 4. 1 Bedroom and 1 Bath on main level. Cal BRE#01857217

Norma R. Fernandez, (925) 408-1349

Bonnie Manolas, (925) 216-8162

RFernandez@windermere.com

GetRealWithBonnie@outlook.com

Again we will work with the Food Bank & ask you to PLEASE DROP nonperishable FOOD items to our office bin by JUNE 4.

Lynne & Stacy offer free staging on ALL LISTINGS

Assisting More Buyers & Sellers than Anyone Else* *Statistics based on Clayton/Concord and Contra Costa County Closed sales by volume (1/2014-12/31/2014). Data by Maxebrdi

"Like" us on

- Windermere Clayton!

Two offices to serve the community

Cal BRE#01122025

Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Around Town Pioneer Travels

Jordans celebrate 60-year Anniversary Bob and Alice Jordan recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They were married April 16, 1955 in Glendale Calif. They met at a fraternity party at UCLA while students there. They have lived in Clayton for 52 years where they raised their three children Steve, Mike and Jill. Bob and Alice are active members of St. John's Episcopal Church. Alice was a charter member of the Clayton Woman's Club and has been in the same bridge club for over 50 years. Bob has been retired for 20 years and he and Alice stay active volunteering for Meals on Wheels as well as Clayton Relay for Life. They spend their leisure time going to plays, movies, concerts and local restaurants. They also enjoy taking classes at the local Cal State Hayward campus. They have been members of their Gourmet Club for more than 25 years and really enjoy getting together with their friends. They also love spending time with their family which includes 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

On ice in Argentina

Buon Giorno from Tuscany

ALICE AND BOB JORDAN

All Out Sports League recognizes achievement off the court

Aloha from Rainbow Falls

All Out Sports, a Clayton based youth organization, rewarded three of their outstanding student athletes with scholarships last month. All three winners received a $250 (529 college plan) scholarship Founder and CEO, Casey Copeland believes in balancing school, community and sports. “These three individuals exemplify what a student athlete is.” They all have straight A’s, do great community service and are active participants for their teams within All Out.

ALL-OUT SCHOLARSHIP Samantha Tuohey

WINNERS

All Out Sports League provides youth and adult sports in Clayton and Antioch. For more information, go to the website alloutsportsleague.com

Justin Durfinger, Alex Yu and

LEIGH KLOCK

Sue Elliott and Chris Smith of Clayton visited Chile and Argentina between erupting volcanoes in April. They read the Clayton Pioneer from front to back several times while traveling from the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile to the Perito Moreno Glacier, Los Glaciares National Park, in Argentina. This 97-square-mile ice formation is large enough to hold the entire city of Buenos Aires. It is one of 48 glaciers fed by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field located in the Andes Mountains.

Susan and Jerry Sappington spent their 15th wedding anniversary in the Tuscany Region of Italy with a stop in the quaint village of San Gimigano for wine and cheese. Other stops included Florence, Lucca and Portofino. Of course, they had to let the Italians know where they came from!

Sue and Frank Snyder of Concord stopped in Hilo to check out the Concord and Clayton Pioneer newspapers by Rainbow Falls on their 15-day Hawaiian cruise in April. Rough seas kept them from some sights, but not from making new friendships on board.

STEPHANIE LOPEZ

Realtor®, DRE#01874255

Realtor®, DRE#01370548

925.212.5593

925.932.7329 www.218MtWilsonPlace.com

Stunning views from this lovely 4 bed, 2 bath home ideally located at the end of a cul de sac and backing up to Mt Diablo St Park trail. Volume ceilings, fresh interior paint, new carpet, updated baths. Private deck off the master bedroom. Offered at $669,000

La Bella Palazzo

Luxu

Enchanting "La Bella Palazzo" is more than just a home, it is an expression of joy enveloped in architectural artistry. This 7,000 square foot residence features 4 master suites, an impressive media/game room, private office with terrazzo, downstairs and upstairs family rooms, a grand formal dining room and living room with hand crafted raw Italian Alder wood trusses soaring from above! The true chef will delight with deluxe commercial ovens, 800+ capacity wine cellar, wall of built in refrigeration, and exclusive butcher block island. The double turret, the wine barrel inspired solid wood doors, the near 360 degree uninterrupted views, 4 private patios, landscape plan including a 1,000 sf. casita/pavilion, infinity pool & spa, and regulation bocce court raise the bar for luxury living! For details visit www.1155RedfernCourt.com.

1342ElCaminoDr.cbrb.com Don't miss this Custom 1960's Clayton Rancher in a private, tucked away lot! This sprawling home retains original charm and provides stylish updates throughout. There are 5 generous bedrooms and 3 full baths. The Master boasts stunning new en suite and walk in closet. Updated open concept kitchen sparkles with granite counters and stainless appliances. The 5th bedroom with separate entrance is perfect for home office or au pair. The detached workshop/ man cave provides extra space for work or play! Lush landscaping and several outdoor entertaining areas make for perfect California living. Offered at $699,000

SOLD

PEND

ING

www.115OakCourt.com Rarely available – Exquisite Tuscan Inspired Estate in Downtown Clayton! Signature single story residence Custom built w/masterful detail – 5 extra generous Bedrooms, Master with en-suite & fireplace, 3 luxe Full Baths, open concept Great Room, Bonus Recreation Room and Top Chef Kitchen! 1/2 acre stunning landscape – pool, spa, gazebo, lawns, gardens, hobby vines, and more. Additional 1,900 s.f. downstairs, level space ready for build out (Construction bid available).

I N S P I R E D R E A L E S TAT E CST #2033054-40

For more information please contact

www.myDynamicRealtors.com

Ph: 925.672.9840

travel-2-go.com Clayton Station Shopping Center 5439 Clayton Road (Suite F) - Clayton, CA

Not responsible for errors or omissions. [Pleasant Holidays acts only as an agent for the various travel providers shown above.] CST# 1007939-10. UBI# 601 915 263. TAR# 5308. Copyright © 2015 Pleasant Holidays, LLC. All Rights Reserved. All photos courtesy of Pebble Beach Resorts.

May 15, 2015

Clayton Pioneer â&#x20AC;˘ www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 5

n a d t r W A e i n n i f e y t h g i One mor e m

4 1

Downtown Clayton was once again the destination for shopping and wine tasting when the Clayton Business and Community Association sponsored the 20th annual Art and Wine Festival, May 2-3. Thousands poured into town to sample premium wines, munch through the Food Court, browse the vendors and rock out to some local bands. The event is one of three

fundraisers mounted by the Clayton Business and Community Association to raise funds for scholarships, schools and community needs. An army of volunteers start setting up the day before and sometimes work through the night to assure a successful event. For more information about the CBCA or to apply for membership, go to claytoncbca.org or call 925.672.2272

3 Counter clockwise from top left: 1. Art and Wine maintenance volunteers Debbie Geller, Sandy Johnson and Dan Richardson 2. Tasting and shopping their way down Main St., Vicky and Mike Farnham and John and Anna Edwards 3. CBCA committee members Howard and Debbie Geller and event volunteer coordinator, Marcy Busse 4. Art and Wine chair, John Garrett Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

Market, from page 1

The drummers kept the beat as the CVCHS marching band headed up Main Street to begin their annual Music-a-thon fundraiser.

May 28-31

The market is downtown on Diablo Street and is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and runs through Sept. 19. BAND ON THE RUN Happily, the Clayton Valley Charter High School marching band chose the market opening to kick off their annual Music-a-thon fundraiser. The band marched through the market on their way to Diamond Terrace and the neighborhoods where residents could have a private lawn concert for a donation of $20. Music-a-thon donations are a major source of funds for the band, which expected to raise more than $5000 this year. Funds are used to offset band expenses for music, instruments, uniforms and travel.

FREE Daily Exhibits FREE Concerts 3 for FREE Thursday Bring 3 cans of food and receive one FREE admission.

Fun Family Friday Kids 12 and under FREE all day Buy 1 Carnival Red Wristband and get 1 FREE (until 6 p.m.) Visit our website for more Fair Fun information

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www.ContraCostaFair.com

(925) 757-4400

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Sunshine Station dodges bullet, remains open TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

For the second time in two years, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District failed to convince taxpayers to pass a parcel tax measure which would saved the district’s five fire stations, at least for another five years. Voters rejected a prior parcel tax measure in 2012. In 2013, a second try was aborted after the ballots were mailed because the data used to calculate the tax was faulty. This last failed measure proposed forming a Benefit Assessment District and levying a $100 annual parcel tax, which requires a simple majority of those voting instead of the two-thirds super-majority required to pass other taxes. In April, 38,529 ballots were mailed to property owners and only 9,495 — less than 25 percent — were returned. The final vote was 53 percent opposed. The vote left the district with no choice but to shutter the Knightsen and old downtown

CalFire BATTALION CHIEF MIKE MARCUCCI AND CAPTAIN JAMES KIRKMAN will remain at the helm of the CalFire Sunshine Station year around thanks to a contract with East County Fire.

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East County’s Brentwood station. In this event, fire insurance – already high – would skyrocket. Premiums could double, triple, even quadruple, says East County Board Member Cheryl Morgan. Some of the outlying homes could be deemed uninsurable, rendering them impossible to sell. FIRE SEASON LOOMS In the fourth year of the worst drought in recorded history, California is heading into the “worst fire season ever,” says Mike Marcucci, CalFire Battalion Chief at the Sunshine Station. “The grass is so thick you can’t get your hand through it.” Marcucci urges residents to be prepared.

“Be ready,” says Marcucci. “Clearing a 100-foot defensible area around homes is critical. It’s not ‘if,’ but ‘when’” another wildfire on the scale of the 2013 Morgan Fire strikes. Marcucci is currently working on a grant from the Fire Safe Council to ramp up prevention measures. The grant will fund fireresistant public landscaping projects, improving the fire roads and providing for community wood-chipping days. “Since the Morgan Fire, we’ve become very fund-able,” Marcucci says. Another grant from PG&E will go towards keeping areas under and around the power lines clear.

Earthquakes rattle nerves in Clayton and Concord PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

One thing is for sure — Clayton and Concord know how to rock and roll. That has never been so evident as in the past few weeks, when a small swarm of earthquakes rattled the Concord/Green Valley fault and sent jitters running through the residents. “I felt a big jolt on Sunday (May 3) then two on Wednesday,” said Concord resident Camille Howston, who lives off of Clayton Road. “It was scary!” Luckily for Howston and other residents in the Diablo Valley, the small swarm of quakes were not a precursor to “The Big One,” just a not-sogentle reminder that we live in

earthquake country. “These types of earthquake swarms are not unusual,” says AnneMarie Baltay, a seismologist with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), which monitors earthquakes. “It’s a pretty typical set of events.” She says that the USGS keeps tabs on the fault lines in California, and they see many small “events” like the swarm that jolted Concord. “They are not indicative of another, stronger earthquake to come,” she says. “In fact, they’re quite common.” She said that the swarm — with four quakes that registered above 3 points on the Richter Scale and the 20 or so much smaller ones that residents didn’t feel — usually would last about a week or so.

Baltay also said that the Concord swarm was quite deep, about 12-15 kilometers (15 miles) below the earth’s surface, so they were not as strong as quakes that happen closer to the surface. However, she says there is nothing to worry about on the Concord/Green Valley Fault. It’s bigger sister, the Hayward Fault, is the one seismologists have targeted for a large quake within the next 30 years. Still, that doesn’t mean that the Concord/Green Valley Fault is a wimp — it is capable of a magnitude 5 quake, and indeed shook with a 5.4 quake way back in 1955. The recent shakings just underscore the need to have earthquake safety plans in place.

RESULTS

A Lifetime of Smiles

tection responsibility falls to East County which then contracts with CalFire to keep the station open from November to April. The arrangement is known as an Amador contract and the cost to East County taxpayers is about $400,000. Additionally, the residents in this area pay an SRA fire service fee of $117 annually on top of their property taxes. The Amador contract runs from year to year and is never a sure thing. The district could opt not to renew the contract at anytime. Without the contract with CalFire, the Sunshine Station would close for half the year, leaving the Morgan Territory residents to rely on ConFire’s Station 11 in Clayton or

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KidFest marks Silver Anniversary The area’s longest-running annual family event, Bay Area KidFest, returns on Memorial Day Weekend presenting its Silver Anniversary edition May 2325 in Downtown Concord. KidFest has been produced by Clayton resident Jay Bedecarre since 2010. That year Concord officials said the city was no longer able to provide financial support and the event had outgrown its Todos Santos Plaza location. Long-time producer Beth Clark also retired after the 20th KidFest and turned over the reins to her marketing partner Bedecarre. At the suggestion of a friend he moved KidFest four blocks down Grant St. to Mt. Diablo High School, coincidentally his alma mater, where the festival was able to expand with triple the space. Bedecarre added a variety of extra free attractions plus nearly two dozen carnival rides geared for the core KidFest audience of kids 12 and under. Since the move Bay Area KidFest has been voted “Best Festival” in the area by readers of Claycord.com four consecutive times. The additional space also facilitated bringing in traveling shows from around the world like this year’s Aussie Kingdom, an educational exhibit taking visitors through the Australian outback with a chance to see kangaroos, wallabies and native Australian birds up close. Among the other free attractions included in the low KidFest admission are Kent Family Circus, SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer and audience participation in scenes from The Wizard of Oz. This year the 12th annual Spring

Diversity (Baisakhi) Festival is songs. all day Saturday, Bay Area PetKidFest is also a fundraiser Fest is Sunday and SportStars for local nonprofits in educaField of Dreams on Monday. From the first year of KidFest in 1990 when Bedecarre brought his two young sons to see Michelangelo of Teenage Mutant Power Rangers costumed TV and movie characters who interact with the attendees have been a KidFest staple. S p o n g e B o b SquarePants and Dora the Explorer from Nickelodeon have AUSSIE KINGDOM traveling exhibition been favorites over (open all day) and show (3 times daily) the years but this is highlights KidFest next weekend with the first time they animals and birds from down under. have been together at KidFest to meet and have their tion, health and youth sports. picture taken with kids of all Festival. Producer Bay Area Fesages. tivals has donated over $70,000 Kid’s Town America, face to organizations over the past painting, balloon art, martial five years. For the 20th year in a arts, games, KidArt, bounces, row, KidFest is partnering with crawls and sports activities at the Food Bank of Contra Costa KidFest are also free. There’s and Solano. Over 100,000 also the omnipresent Food pounds of food have been given Court, arts and crafts and to the needy by KidFest attenexhibitor booths. There is an dees. Every patron donating a extra charge for carnival rides. can of food gets $1 off the KidThe Main Stage features free Fest admission price. nonstop entertainment of priAdmission is $6 a person for marily local groups with music, those donating a can of food or dance, cultural and ethnic pre- $7 without a donation. Babies sentations, martial arts and more under 24 months and seniors 65 from 10:45 each morning. and over are free. KidFest is Another event added since the open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Satmove is a Memorial Day Mon- urday and Sunday of Memorial day noon time ceremony with Day Weekend and until 5 p.m. Mt. Diablo High School Jr. on Monday, May 25. ROTC and renowned vocalist Deborah Del Mastro singing the For complete KidFest information anthems for each of the military visit kidfestconcord.com or call (925) branches and other patriotic 671-3287.

May 15, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Obituary

Directory of Advertisers

Marie Cogan P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration, Calendar Editor John Jackson, Jay Bedecarre

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send School News to schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com

CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: $48 for first 30 words, 40 cents each additional word Non-profit: $24 for first 30 words, 20 cents each additional word To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 672-0500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on the website are forms for

calendar items, events & press releases. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 250 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters must be submitted via Email. CIRCULATION as of Sept. 2014 Total circulation of the Clayton Pioneer is 5,500 to ZIP code 94517, all delivered by US Mail to homes, businesses and post office boxes. We cannot start or stop delivery to individual addresses. This must be done directly through the Post Office The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,000 in Concord by carrier. Papers are delivered once a month on a Friday morning near the end of the month. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 or send an email to us at circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please call us or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon. SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $35/year for each paper, $60/year for both.

New Jersey native and a Clayton resident since 2010, Marie Cogan passed away May 4 in her Diamond Terrace apartment. She was the mother of former Clayton Pioneer editor Jill Cogan Bedecarré. The 92-year-old was born in Elizabeth, NJ to August Gustav Mueller and Madeline Smith. She married her high school sweetheart, John Cogan, on Jan. 6, 1945 while he was serving in the US Navy. Marie wrote him letters and sent boxes of goodies with peanuts and crossword puzzles while he spent three years in Brazil during World War II. They had son John Joseph (Jack) Cogan on Feb. 4, 1946 and daughter Jill Ann Cogan on Feb. 24, 1950 and then settled on Monica Court in Avenel, NJ for over 30 years. After John retired from a near 40-year career with Exxon the couple moved to California in 1991 to be close to their four grandchildren. She was a voracious reader and loved to jog. The couple enjoyed traveling to Ireland, England and Alaska. They also made several cross country drives to visit their daughter’s growing family. Marie made friends wherever she went. Son-in-law Jay Bedecarré says she knew more of his neighbors in Clayton than he did. At Diamond Terrace her friends said she was an unbelievably funny woman who, when asked what she wanted people to know about her responded, “That I’m a beautiful, skinny blond with a great sense of humor.” She lost her immediate family to three medical scourges of the past four decades: son Jack succumbed to AIDS in 1989, husband John to Alzheimer’s in 2005 and daughter Jill to breast

Business Services Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . . .672-8717 Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500 J.A. Ronco Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .872-3049 Schaefer’s Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-6065 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 MARIE COGAN

cancer in 2007. John and Marie were married 60 years and he died three days after their 60th anniversary. She is survived by son-in-law Jay Bedecarré, granddaughter Juliene Marie Bedecarré and grandson Jared William Bedecarré of Clayton; grandson John Jason (Emily) Bedecarré and great grandson Ted William Bedecarré of Corte Madera and grandson Justin Thomas Bedecarré of San Francisco. She is also survived by six nephews and three nieces, all on the East Coast, and sister-in-law Alyce Miller of New Jersey. She spoke almost daily with niece Jean Shipley, who was her Aunt Marie’s “second daughter.” The family thanks her caregivers Jennifer, Flora, Leah and Amy and Jill’s dear friend Ellen Herdegen for their love and kindness. The family said that anyone wishing to make a remembrance in her name can do so to the Cancer Support Community of Walnut Creek, Alzheimer’s Research and Preservation Foundation or a charity of your choice. Services were held at St. Bonaventure Chapel Wednesday followed by a burial at Holy Cross Cemetery in Antioch.

Obituary

Wilfred E. Barnes June 3, 1924 – April 16, 2015 Wilfred “Wil” Barnes died peacefully at home with his view of Mt. Diablo and his garden on April 16. Throughout his nearly 91 years he was a loving son, brother, husband, father, granddad and great-granddad to his family. He was a loyal friend, talented woodworker, World War II veteran and Rotarian. Born in Chicago, Barnes grew up in Springfield, Missouri, and Billings, Montana, where he enjoyed being close to nature and climbing the Rimrocks above the Yellowstone River. Graduating from Billings High School, Barnes enlisted and spent WWII in the Army Air

Force where he was trained in meteorology, communications and electronics at Amherst College, Yale, Harvard and MIT. While serving in Colorado Springs after the war, he met and married his wife Bernice in 1946. Using the GI bill, he graduated from the University of Chicago, with a degree in Physics and masters in Mathematics. He was awarded the first PhD in Mathematics from the University of British Columbia, in Vancouver, BC, Canada. It was in Canada that he also perfected the art of brewing great beer, a craft he practiced for many years for the enjoyment of

WILFRED BARNES WITH WIFE BERNICE IN THE EARLY 1980S.

his friends and family. “Bernie” and Barnes were married for nearly 60 years, raising their family in Pullman, Washington, where Barnes served as math

Marilyn Fowler, Concord Chamber executive director, presents the award to Michael Nicosia, managing partner of Ouimet Bros., with John and Sharon Ouimet and Don and Bea Ouimet.

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professor at Washington State University from 1954 to 1966, and Ames, Iowa, at Iowa State University where he was the head of the math department for 16 years, then stayed on as a math professor until retiring in 1994. While in Ames, they loved spending vacations at their cabin in the mountains of Colorado, a favorite spot for grandchildren, too. The couple moved to Albany, Oregon, where Barnes enjoyed his retirement crafting furniture for his family. After Bernice died in 2006, Barnes moved to Clayton in 2008 to live with his daughter Julie (Barnes) and husband Steve Pierce. Bernie and Barnes are greatly missed by their daughters Julie Pierce (Steve), Karen Barnes-Castro, grandsons Shawn and wife Jaime Pierce, Robert and wife Jenny Pierce, and great-grandchildren Ashlynn, Sadie, Gavin and Ellie and many dear friends. Family and friends gathered earlier this month to celebrate Barnes’ life at his home and raised a glass of his preferred scotch in tribute to a wonderful man and a long life well lived. Memorial gifts may be made to the Concord Rotary Foundation or Hospice of the East Bay.

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Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Unpermitted additions not a deal-killer Q. What might we face when selling our home due to some unpermitted additions we’ve made? A. The important thing is to disclose this fact to potential buyers. You are required to disclose anything you know about the property. A seller in our area wanted to disclose that a sunroom addition was done without permits but was up to code. Luckily he was instructed not to disclose that it was up to code because he didn‘t know that for

sure. When the buyer did their inspections they were informed that it wasn’t built to code. It is important to only disclose what you know for sure. One thing that would make it difficult to get financing on a home is if it has an addition with an unpermitted kitchen. I know of a seller that pulled the stove out of the kitchen area of the addition before sale so it wouldn’t be considered a kitchen. The buyer had the option to put a stove in after they moved in. I

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don’t think I would have suggested this but it was fully disclosed and the sale went through. The biggest problem that might arise from an unpermitted addition is the appraisal. The appraiser will attribute little value to this space. A buyer will like it though because they are getting extra square footage for very little extra money. Q. I am planning to put my home on the market soon. I am very uncomfortable with the security issues especially during open houses and having a lock box with my key in it on the front door. How do people deal with these issues? I am a single woman, by the way.

A. I have been selling real estate for nearly 18 years and have never had a theft at one of my listings and have never been robbed. I say this so you don’t worry too much, just be prepared. Don’t tempt a possible thief. Here are some common sense tips. • Before having your house shown, remove all valuables including jewelry, money, bank statements, credit cards and keys. Don’t leave them in a drawer with easy access. • Prescription drugs should be locked away in a cabinet. • Before an open house, discuss with your agent security techniques to use while people are walking through. Be sure that the agent will

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Without question, our community has an affection for it parks and open spaces that is unrivaled in my professional experience. The Grove Park and surrounding downtown area certainly leads the list of favorites. Concerts, parades, festivals, the farmers market and a host of other events truly make The Grove a place for the community to come together. The popularity of the downtown area inevitably leads to conflicts between users. Depending on where you’re at in life, you may find some of the other folks in the park to be a “bother.” As an example, families with small children are not always appreciative of older kids who are looking for a place to “hang out.” The park seems to be a place where many of our tweens gather to socialize after school. This

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has led to some conflicts between kids and between kids and adults. There have been reports of fights and of one or two young people taking part in much more serious activity such as selling drugs. The police department is aware of the issues and, to the extent possible, we are spending time in the park. At a recent Clayton City Council meeting, several resi-

Hansen, from page 1 principal and Clayton Valley alumnus, was ruled as having conflicts of interest when he was applying for a CVCHS governing board position. The school’s legal counsel said Beemer would potentially have conflicts in his capacity as commissioner of the Bay Valley Athletic League and also because of his relationship with Hansen. The legal firm said MDUSD is still the landlord of CVCHS and legal or financial matters between the school and district might be brought before the governing board. Beemer was outspoken in his displeasure with the school’s executive director Dave Linzey. Hansen's letter said the school’s leadership "has become so corrupt and dysfunctional that the only way to end the toxicity and restore a positive educational system is revocation of the charter." She added, “Mt. Diablo Unified is ready to step in immediately to provide students with clear, meaningful educational opportu-

nities and to restore trust and functionality to the Clayton Valley school community." Following the discovery of Hansen’s February letter and March emails to the county through a Public Records Act request, attorney Kristopher Carpenter of Young, Minney and Corr said Hansen was breaking MDUSD board policies in sending the letter and emails to the CCCOE, which is in the midst of investigating a series of complaints sent to them by individuals dissatisfied with the charter school’s leadership. Carpenter says Hansen was “using the weight of your office to support your personal position.” Carpenter then outlined in a three-page letter the “legal and ethical boundaries you have crossed in sending communications on behalf of MDUSD to the County Board and Superintendent.” He goes on to say “your attempts to sway the CCCOE’s investigation have violated

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REAL ANSWERS • If you feel uncomfortable with someone or a situation be very alert and perhaps contact someone nearby. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672-878 7or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

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engage with the people walking through, not just let them have free rein of your home. If the agent expects it to be especially busy ask if there should be two agents there. • Before having a showing, all lights should be turned on and all blinds, shades and curtains opened. • If a real estate agent or potential buyer shows up without proper notification do not let them in. Tell them to call your agent if they have interest. • When I list a home for a single, especially female, seller, I don’t put the lockbox on the door. She keeps control of the lockbox and only puts it out when she is expecting a showing.

Transwestern has contacted more than 650 retailers, sent 1000 mailers, and talked to more than 400 other brokers to try and entice the purchase and development. The city council specifically asked them to approach retailers like Trader Joe’s. Unfortunately, Trader Joe’s and others have commercial studies and data on buying habits and formulas on costs that “show” Clayton does not have enough population density to support their market. Long and short of it is, retailers say we just cannot support the type of retail we want. This is further complicated by the empty storefronts we already have had in

downtown for the last four years. For both our property and the vacant storefronts, Transwestern also had some sobering news. Restaurants have a tremendous failure rate, approaching 80 percent for nonchains, and it often takes more than $100,000 to make tenant improvements to get them in the door. Again, in short, the failure rate and cost are one reason we have not had movement downtown, as well as the economy itself. We did get two unsolicited bids involving residential over retail concepts that do not fit our current zoning. The council,

dents voiced their concern regarding the behavior of some of the young people. I have nearly 30 years as a police officer. I have raised two kids through the middle school age. I can tell you first-hand, not all children behave in public the way they behave at home. Some act very differently when they are not around you, their parents. This doesn’t make them bad kids, it simply makes them teenagers. The park is a beautiful place, built and supported by ALL of our residents. In a perfect world, all who come to enjoy the area would find it to be a fun and memorable experience. I ask all parents to speak to their children about the importance of our parks. Vandalism and other poor behavior not only destroys the park in a physical sense, but destroys the feel-

ing of safety our citizens enjoy. The park is not a “babysitter.” Please understand that kids, even “good kids,” if left to their own devices can make poor choices. Check in on them, stop by and say hello. Surprise them by bringing a snack. Swing by and monitor the kids in the park, let them know how much you care. If you witness criminal behavior, please call the police department. We will respond and take appropriate action. Remember, the park is a public facility, open to all. It should be shared by all groups and all ages. As always, thank you for helping make Clayton a great place to live, work and recreate.

MDUSD Board policy, and may have even violated law.” The school counsel finished by saying “what is made exceedingly clear by your actions is that detractors of CVCHS are willing to utilize any resource, even those [that violate] law and policy, to impair the success of the school in furtherance of their own personal agenda.” “We find this letter, which advocates revocation of our highperforming charter school, very troubling,” said Linzey. “It certainly demands answers as to why Cheryl Hansen would use her official title as Board President and district resources to influence an on-going investigation (by the Contra Costa County Office of Education) and to reassure our authorizer that MDUSD is ‘ready to step in immediately’ to take over our school. We are concerned as to whether MDUSD has taken any official action to actively take over our school for their own financial gain.” In November the county trustees unanimously gave Clayton Valley its maximum charter

reauthorization through 2020. Following the release of the Feb. 25 letter Carpenter and some CVCHS parents spoke at the Mt. Diablo board’s May meeting calling out Hansen. The board president responded by saying she was exercising her First Amendment rights in contacting the county. In other news, Clayton Valley Charter also has a request into MDUSD to add a second football/soccer/lacrosse all-weather turf field that would be used by school teams, students and local youth groups. CVCHS funds would pay for the $1.4 million project but it needs district approval since it is on MDUSD property. Contra Costa District Attorney Mark Peterson last month cleared CVCHS of a number of charges brought by individuals and the Stakeholders for Transparency group against Linzey and the school’s governing board. The DA’s office “found insufficient evidence of criminal wrongdoing to warrant criminal prosecution or additional investigation… I consider the matter closed.”

therefore, has discussed and will continue to discuss our options regarding the parcel. In particular, do we change the retail vision and re-zone to allow other concepts that bring people to the downtown, but will not be wholly retail? Or do we continue to bank the land and wait for the economy and other factors to bring that retail vision in the future? We know there are people on both sides of this and we asked for public comment at our last two meetings, but received very little. So, the council has requested that Transwestern ask “what if ” questions of the development community they interact with about to see if it makes sense to look at other potential uses. In other words, “if this parcel was re-zoned,

what potential development do you see being attractive?” This will allow input without commitment and then we can continue the discussion. So, while they are doing that work, the Council wishes you to weigh in as well as to the continued “vision” for downtown. Email me at dshuey@ci.clayton.ca.us and I will distribute to staff and the rest of the council and look for future meetings where we will continue the discussion. On the other hand, Crazy Horse was quoted as saying, “One does not sell the land people walk on (or put the Oktoberfest carnival on).”

Chris Thorsen is Clayton’s chief of police. For questions and comments, call him at (925) 673-7350.

Email the mayor dshuey@ci.clayton.ca.us

May 15, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Despite early hope, drought continues Our Mediterranean style climate allows us to condense the four well-known seasons into two. We can dissect the year into a wet winter season and dry summer season. Our water year is defined as the period from July 1 to June 30. Long-term climate data from the Clayton area indicates that more than 90 percent of our rainfall is recorded between the first of November and end of April. Therefore, additional rainfall this water year will not significantly change the statistics reported to this point. Without a doubt the main weather story in our area and throughout the west is the continuation of drought conditions. A backwards glance into rainfall records shows what transpired. To date, Concord Airport has received only 79 percent of normal rainfall this water year. The National Weather Service reports that for the average for the entire Bay Area was only 76 percent of normal.

WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS Unfortunately, this is the fourth year in a row when rainfall totals fell below 85 percent of normal. The only silver lining seems to be that the current water year totals represent about a 15 percent improvement over the previous one. Northern California relies heavily on Sierra Nevada snows and reservoir storage for its water supply. Data from the latest mountain snow surveys are dismal. As of May 1, snow water content in the Northern and Central Sierra averages from 1

to 2 percent of normal. Data from the Northern Sierra rainfall index (consisting of eight stations) shows current water year has produced 68 percent of normal rainfall. That represents a six percent improvement over the very dry water year that preceded it. As a result, mountain reservoir water levels remain very low, about 59 percent of average. Monthly rainfall statistics indicate that our rainy season had a Jekyll and Hyde personality. December held promise as a drought-busting month. Rainfall was reported on 16 of the first 20 days of the month, with many Bay Area weather stations reporting more than 10 inches of rain during this period. For a while there was plenty of talk of atmospheric rivers, El Nino, and drought relief. Despite promising forecasts of continued storminess, the last two weeks of 2014 were dry, but the year ended with hope for additional rains.

In January the evil Mr. Hyde re-appeared. For the first time since rainfall records have been kept in the Bay Area (more than 150 years), no measureable rainfall fell during the entire month. With the exception of a three-day period in early February, and a few days of rain in April, the dry weather pattern has continued through the rest of the rainy season. As a result, water year 2014-15 will go down as a fourth consecutive dry year. All the December hope for drought relief has evaporated. It is an unfortunate end to a water year that briefly held some promise. California and much of the west will see unprecedented efforts to increase water conservation and restrict water usage. And we will hope the next water year has more Dr. Jekyll and less Mr. Hyde. Woody Whitlatch is a retired meteorologist from PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

Tips on avoiding will challenges The primary purpose of estate planning is to ensure that your wealth is distributed according to your wishes after you die. But if a family member challenges the plan, that purpose may be defeated. If the challenge is successful, a judge will decide who’ll inherit your property. Will contests and similar challenges often occur when one’s estate plan operates in an unexpected way. For example, if you favor one child over the others or leave a substantial inheritance to a nonfamily member, those who expected to inherit that wealth may challenge your plan, often on

grounds of undue influence. There are steps you can take, however, to avoid these challenges. It’s important to recognize that a certain level of influence is permissible, so long as it doesn’t rise to the level of “undue” influence. For example, there’s nothing inherently wrong with a daughter who encourages her father to leave her the family vacation home. But if the father is in a vulnerable position — perhaps he’s ill or frail and the daughter is his caregiver — a court might find that he’s susceptible to undue influence and that the daughter improperly influenced him to change his will.

Water cuts, from page 1 see in public areas around town. When the city faced similar cutbacks in 2009, trees, shrubs, groundcovers and newer planting areas were given watering priority over turf, Janney said. That will again be the priority. In a recent memo to his staff, Napper outlined the water cutbacks. On the “hit list” were all public landscaped lawns, except the Clayton Fountain. Due to recent landscape renovations, this area has a high-efficiency irrigation system meeting the state’s Water Conversation Ordinance. The city will water it just two days a week as mandated; if the irrigation system can’t keep the lawn area semi-green with just the two day watering schedule, city staff will reevaluate and determine if the system should be shut down during the summer months. Lawns that will not be watered include North Valley Park and Stranahan Park. As Janney said, the Clayton Community Park will be irrigated for

the allowed two-days-per-week to try to keep the fields semigreen for play. At this time, the irrigation runs Monday night and Thursday night with the irrigation water meters shut down in between to prevent loss of water from mainline breaks. GROUNDWATER WELLS HELP Luckily, like some of the downtown areas, the parks in Westwood, The Grove, and Lydia Lane all use groundwater well water, which aren’t subject to the state water restrictions and can be watered three times a week. Other areas that will be excluded from cutbacks include the lawns in the downtown area at the Oak Street exit and ramp to Main Street, the tear drop (roses and boxwood island) on Main Street, and the area surrounding the Holiday Tree. These areas receive water from an existing city groundwater well. Another area that uses

WWII Exhibit, from page 1 all attendees were able to enjoy the refreshments set up by the Clayton Historical Society. The exhibit coordinator, Mary Spryer, learned a lot about the war while selecting items to put in the exhibit. She knew that whether they fought in the military, bought War Bonds, recycled valuable resources, volunteered with the Red Cross or used ration coupon when buying food, everyone in America participated in the war effort. Spryer had heard about

rationing in the 1940s from her parents, who were teenagers from 1941-1945 and from having mounted a similar exhibit 10 years ago. But when she began the research for this exhibit she realized for the first time that metal toys, typewriters, and sewing machines were not manufactured at all during many of the war years. Moreover, there was a request for all privately owned, non-essential typewriters to be donated to the armed forces for

PROTECTING YOUR PLAN Here are several steps you can take to avoid undue influence claims and ensure that your wishes are carried out: Use a revocable trust. Rather than relying on a will alone, create a revocable, or “living,” trust. These trusts don’t go through probate, so they’re more difficult and costly to challenge. Establish competency. Claims of undue influence often go hand in hand with challenges on grounds of lack of testamentary capacity. Establishing that you were “of sound mind and body” at the time you sign your will can go a long way toward combating

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groundwater is around the Clayton Community Library. This well, in addition to irrigating the library grounds, supplies the water to irrigate the Clayton Road landscape from the Oakhurst Drive intersection to the Mitchell Canyon Road intersection, along old Marsh Creek Road from Clayton Road to Main Street, at the Town Center Sign grounds, and at the Main Street tear drop island. Napper also said that all landscaping supplied with water from CCWD must be watered only two days per week, with no watering between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., no run-off, and breaks must be repaired as soon as possible. “It’s a big deal,” said Clayton City Councilwoman Julie Pierce. “Luckily we have planted many drought-tolerant plants throughout the city, so we’ll just have to see how they stand up to the hot summer months. I’m sure by September many of the plants and lawns in Clayton will be showing stress.” “It’s a serious problem,” she says. “We have to cut back.”

OAKHURST CUTTING BACK Also cutting back is the Oakhurst Country Club, said General Manager Tony Eichers. The golf course’s fairways and the roughs will be watered just twice a week, with the greens and tees three times, but only in the evening hours. “It actually will make the fairways harder, which make the balls go faster,” he said. “Our users might like it better.” Oakhurst buys well water from the City of Clayton, which allows for the additional watering. “I think we’ll be able to keep the greens in good shape, but it’s the ancillary areas that will suffer,” he said, including the patches of grass facing Clayton Road, and areas around the pool and tennis courts. They will be cut down to twice a week watering. “We need to do our part, too, to conserve water,” he said. He doesn’t foresee any fee adjustments because of the drought situation, but he will ask golfers to drive carts on the trails and not on the grass because that will distress the greens even more

their use. Spryer said that another difference between the 70th and 60th Anniversaries is that many items in this year’s exhibit were loaned by the descendants of the veterans rather than the veterans themselves. Even though the veterans are aging (an 18year-old recruit in 1941 would be 92 in 2015), what has not changed is the importance with which both the veterans and their descendants place on the part their family played in the war. Scrapbooks, newspaper clippings, pictures, and other mementos were kept safe and

intact for the past 70 years and were proudly loaned to the museum for this special exhibit. U.S. Army gear, medals, pictures, vintage newspaper front pages, in addition to items used by families at home, will be on display until Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2015. The museum is open on Sundays and Wednesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. and by appointment. The Clayton Historical Society Museum is located at 6101 Main St. in Clayton, Contact it at 925-6720240 or www.claytonhistory.org.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Schools Young artists shine at CVCHS Arts Expo

Emily York

THE WORKS OF 28 TALENTED STUDENT ARTISTS were displayed at the annual CVCHS Eagle Arts Expo. More than 100 pieces of art including paintings, photography and mixed media.

The arts are thriving in local schools as Clayton Valley Charter High School honored 28 young artists at the school’s annual Eagle Arts Expo on Thursday, April 23. This year, some of the winners included students from Pine Hollow and Diablo View Middle

schools. The Expo showcased almost 100 pieces of art made by students from all different kinds of materials: acrylic paint, watercolor paint, photography supplies, oil pastels, and even some 3D figures. The Expo was put together

by Art Department Chair and AP studio art and AP history teacher Katie Nolan, art and game design teacher Evan Hughes and English and photography teacher Elizabeth Abbott. The event was sponsored by the Michelangelo D’Onofrio Arts Foundation and Sunrise

Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord. DVMS student Jesse Miller won First Place for sculpture, while Alex King of CVCHS took Second Place. CVCHS student Sam Anderson won First Place in painting while classmate Babrielle Dela Cruz took Second Place. There were also winners in photo and mixed media categories. The school is producing a 16month calendar of all of the winning artwork. It is available for sale on the CVCHS website/web store under Art Expo Calendar at www.claytonvalley.org? A prestigious panel judged the event, including Christine Koppes, assistant to the curator of the Bedford Gallery; Suzy Wear, professor of art at California State University, East Bay; Kua Patten, museum consultant; David VanderJagt, pottery and clay artist and exhibitor at the East Bay Open Studios; Jeff

New state testing gets mixed reviews

ALISON EWING

DVMS CORRESPONDENT As this glorious school year comes to a close, there is one thing left that every student dreads; state testing. Until recently, all tests in the State of California have been taken with pencil and paper. Comprised of endless pages of multiplechoice questions, students would rather do almost anything else. In this new technology age, state testing is shifting to being entirely online. Many students are thrilled to have less questions and less hassle, but with the idea of the increasing importance of the scores, there

are also a handful of students who would much rather not deal with the stress. “Even though it is harder than the STAR test was, I think it is a more efficient way of testing,” said seventh grade student Aidan Reinwald. “I also think that we will be able to place people in classes that better fit them which will make things easier for everyone.” Sarah Grigsby, another seventh grader, explained her thoughts: “I can see how the state testing is important but it takes up a lot of valuable learning time and caused unnecessary stress.” Seventh grader John Parker said, “I believe that for kids who enjoy working on computers, it is an easier format, but at the same time kids that aren’t proficient at typing find it more difficult. Many kids mentioned that although they enjoyed the computer testing, reading for extended periods of time was grueling because after a while kids felt fatigued. All in all, I would still much rather click on the computer than fill in a bubble form.”

I had talked to several other people that all gave me similar answers: the new state testing is more efficient and for many, easier, yet it can also cause a lot of stress because of the growing importance placed on the scores. It definitely has its advantages, but in other ways many students find that it’s not

the best it can be quite yet because not only is it stressful, but it uses a lot of time that we could be using to get ready for finals. Alison Ewing is a student correspondent at DVMS. Send comments to editor@claytonpioneer.com

DVMS musicians bring magic to Disneyland Members of Diablo View Middle School Jazz Band and Symphonic Band became stars of their own Disney show on March 14, 2015, when they entertained resort guests at the Hollywood Backlot Stage at Disney California Adventure Park. The group traveled from Clayton to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim to take part in the Disney Performing Arts program. Dance, vocal and instrumen-

tal ensembles from all around the world apply to perform each year as a part of Disney Performing Arts at both the Disneyland Resort in California and the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Once selected, they are given the opportunity to perform at the resort for an international audience of theme park guests. Millions of performers have graced the stages of the Disney Parks in the more than 25-year history of the program.

Hegerstrand, video teacher at Northgate High School; Pat Moseuk, painter, teacher and owner of M J Studios in Pleasant Hill; Olga Jusidam, sculptor and member of the Lamorinda Art Alliance; Don Howard, photographer and realtor with Better Homes Realty who will be showing at the upcoming Clayton Wine Festival; Pat Jackson, designer and illustrator; and Kyle Arango and Kristin Becker. “Keeping Arts Alive” in First place the public painting by Sam Anderson schools is the goal of the CVCHS Michelangelo

PATTI BANNISTER DVMS PRINCIPAL As I write this it is hard to believe that we only have five weeks of school left of the 2014-15 school year. As always, these last weeks are filled with

dents. Our Spring Book Fair will be opened throughout the week. Ms. Brewington will be taking our seventh graders on the annual 10-mile hike on Mt. Diablo. On Wednesday of this week is our Open House where you can see all the fantastic achievements of our students. Not to be outdone, the following week we have the Spring Band Concerts on May 26 and 27 followed by the Film Festival on May 28. June is also filled with activi-

ties including Advanced Video Class Festival at the Brenden Theater on June 1, Eighth Grade Awards Night on June 2, the Promotion Dance on June 5, Eighth Grade Picnic on June 10 and finally, Promotion and the last day of school on June 11. Needless to say these are busy times but it is also a time to reflect on how fortunate I am to be part of such a dynamic school and community.

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Performances highlight end-of-year activities As of May 15, there are 20 days left of school. The end of the school year is busy with endof-year tests and a plethora of activities. Students recognize that another step to growing up comes along with promotion to the next grade and for fifth graders, promotion to a different school. It’s an exciting time that for some students is accompanied by a bit of trepidation about the unknown. Coming soon is MDE’s annual spring chorus production. This year our show is “Alice in Wonderland.” Students have been rehearsing since mid-winter. This show has one of the largest casts the school has seen in many years. We are very proud of these fine productions that showcase our fourth and fifth grade students’ talents. The performances are open to the public. “Alice in Wonderland” will have two performances in the Multi-Use Room of the school, beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 14 and Friday, May 15 in the MUR. On May 22, our Kindergarteners will perform in a production called “You Look Ridiculous” on stage at the MUR for

IRENE KEENAN MDES PRINCIPAL their families. The story and music was adapted by one of MDES’ all-time favorite retired teachers, Mrs. Hollenbeck. Research shows that student engagement in the arts is closely linked to academic achievement, social and emotional development, and in providing equitable opportunities. Students love to perform and watch their peers performances and I am happy that MDE has a strong tradition of providing many such opportunities for students throughout the school year. Email comments and questions to keenani@mdusd.k12.ca.us

The Play’s the Thing at MDE

Activities mark busy last weeks culminating events that showcase the amazing accomplishments of our students. The second week of May, teachers and staff were recognized by Parent Faculty Club and student body for their dedication and efforts throughout the year. The week of May 1822 was packed with activities. Mrs. Rush’s Service Learning Club is holding a book drive to support a middle school in Los Angeles that struggles to have good literature for their stu-

Second prize painting by Babrielle Dela Cruz

BRANNA SUNDY

MDES CORRESPONDENT Mount Diablo Elementary’s fourth and fifth graders will be performing “Alice in Wonderland, Jr.” to a full house on May 14 and 15. But this isn’t just any show. This is a spectacular, Broadwayworthy performance filled with months of hard work, dedication, and cooperation. And, boy, can the Queen of Hearts yell! “Alice in Wonderland, Jr.” is an amazing show, starring three Alices: Small Alice, Alice, and Tall Alice. “My favorite part of the musical is getting to practice and perform it with friends.” says Ana Hamilton, who has one of the roles of Alice in the musical. With a crazy Mad Hatter, the worried White Rabbit, optimistic Caterpillar, sassy Flowers and many other great characters, this show is sure to make you laugh. Director Sarah Wilcox comments, “We have 95 students par-

ticipating this year — 81 performers and 14 ushers. It’s a true testament to how much our community values the arts. We are very grateful to Principal Irene Keenan, the teachers and the MDE PFC for recognizing the importance of this program and the incredible efforts that have been made to keep it at our school.” The musical wouldn’t be possible without Mrs. Wilcox, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Huaco, Mrs. Baker, Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Young, and all of the teachers who judged the auditions. Thanks to everyone who is bringing the stage to life at MDE. Don’t be surprised if you hear the catchy classic Disney songs such as “I’m Late,” “The Un-birthday Song” and “Zip-aDee-Doo-Dah” around town after this fun performance. Branna is in fifth grade at Mt. Diablo Elementary School. Branna is an avid reader. She enjoys writing poetry and fictional short stories.

May 15, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Collaborative decision making part of professional development

DAVID LINZEY VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE At a recent Governing Board meeting, Board Chair Ted Meriam asked staff to address four key issues: student safety and success, labor relations, fiscal management and collaborative decision-making. Last month I shared with you information from key administrators on how effectively Clayton Valley Charter High School operates in student safety and fiscal management. This month I will finish up with labor relations and collaborative decision-making. Our vision is “to create first class citizens with a world class education.” Having staff members who are empowered with high-quality professional development has been a key strategy to our success. We offer more professional development opportunities to our teachers than most schools in the region and possibly one of the top professional development schools in the state. CVCHS offers the following Professional Development (PD) programs for our teachers:

CV summer band camp set for June The CVCHS Instrumental Music Program will hold the annual Band Camp at Clayton Valley Charter High School from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 22 to July 2. The camp is for incoming middle school students and freshmen with prior instrumental musical experience. Students will have nine days of practicing and performing in an ensemble, learning music theory and history, doing sectionals with local professional musicians and getting mentoring by high school musicians. Camp ends with concert at noon on July 2. Cost is $325 per student; sibling is $250. To register, go to www.claytonbands.org. For more information, send an email to: joseph.scott@claytonvalley.org.

• Summer Curriculum Institute • Summer Character Counts Symposium • Summer Ed Tech Institute • Summer Model Schools Conference • Advanced Placement Course Workshops • Summer Math Workshops • Bi-weekly Department planning time and Professional Learning Community meetings • Monthly PD sessions We are so proud of our teachers and staff for the diligent work they perform on a daily basis caring for and educating our students. Our school attorney shared with the Board how there have been no lawsuits against CVCHS by employees, nor any judgments for personnel violations. Our two employee associations have some of the best protections of any charter school in the state. This past year we were able to offer a 6 percent salary increase to all staff and significantly increase their health benefits. We know that taking care of our staff is a priority and a key to making CVCHS a great place to work. CVCHS is also committed to a partnership with parents in the education of our students. Key measures for collaboration include: Governing Board is comprised of representative groups including teachers, staff, administration, parents and community members.

Parent Faculty Club works with the administration, teachers and parents to support our school. Each department has a department chair and an administrator assigned to them for collaboration, communication and problem solving. The athletic and music boosters are a key support system to their respective programs. We communicate regularly with our community through School Messenger and the Voyage of the Eagle to keep everyone informed about important information, events and schoolrelated incidents. We keep our website updated so everyone is well-informed. We try our best to return calls and emails within 24 hours. Teachers and staff attempt to be responsive to all related concerns. We know that parents are a vital partner to the success of all of our students. In closing, I am so grateful to have a competent and stellar staff. Together, we are moving CVCHS forward “from Good to Great.” Thank you to our Board who tirelessly give of their time, talent and energy at a great sacrifice to their personal lives, because of their commitment to making CVCHS a school that we all are proud of.

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

Dylan Mitchell fundraiser benefits wrestling team

Twenty-one-year-old Dylan Mitchell was tragically killed two years ago on May 23 by a truck driver while riding his bicycle to work in San Francisco. Dylan’s mother, Julie Mitchell, is holding a fundraiser in his memory to benefit the Clayton Valley Charter High School wrestling team. The team was a huge part of Dylan’s life from sixth grade through his senior year. One hundred percent of donations go directly to the team. Go to: gofundme.com/dylanmitchell to make a donation.

There’s more to being ‘Perfect’

EMILY YORK

TEEN READS Everyone thinks about what it would be like to be someone else. Whether it’s because of their accomplishments or their looks, we wonder what it would feel like to spend a day in their skin. In “Perfect” by Ellen Hop-

kins, that’s the case for four high school seniors. For Cara Sierra Sykes, unreachable goals have been set by her parents. Their constant pressure has pushed her brother, Connor, to attempt suicide (but not succeed). For Kendra Melody Mathieson, all anyone ever sees her as is pretty — just another Cover Girl-looking face walking down the hallway. All she wants is for people to know that she is much more than that. For Sean Terrance O’Connell, baseball and football are his life. But keeping up with the high demand of being a high school star athlete can easily send him tiptoeing to the edge of his breaking point. For Andre Marcus Kane III,

he has spent his whole life bathed in wealth. But his parents wanting him to follow in their footsteps in the fields of real estate speculation and investment banking makes him feel like if he doesn’t do what they say he should do, he will disappoint them. This book was quite long, 622 pages to be exact. But it was worth every minute I spent reading it. This was a book I could read again and again and still find new things I love about it. Hopkins did a marvelous job at explaining how the only person you should stride to impress is yourself. Emily York is a sophomore at CVCHS.

Hats off to Clayton graduates

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Sports Championship meets highlight spring sports seasons JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

May is jam-packed with league, section and state championships in the eight spring sports for local high schools. Athletes and teams are geared up for the climax of their seasons and school year as they test their skills at the highest possible levels. SWIMMING & DIVING Juniors Anthony Vines and Ryan Levy are Clayton Valley Charter’s leading contenders at this week’s North Coast Section Swimming and Diving Championships at Concord Community Pool. This is a special year for high school swimming with the first-

ever CIF State Swimming Championships slated for the Clovis West Aquatic Complex May 22-23. The nation’s largest state has led the way in swimming performances for decades and having a state championship is expected to product a pool full of records. Eagles head coach Shaun Guest says Vines and Levy “are likely to place well at NCS. I'm predicting somewhere in the top 10 for their individual events. It will come down to fine tuning their race strategy this week (turns and finishes). Both of them are right on the cusp of going to CIF State Championships. It will be exciting to see what happens.” CVCHS is also entering boys and girls 200 and 400 freestyle

and 200 medley relays. Levy will be in the 50 and 100 free and Vines is in the 100 butterfly and 50 free while junior Chase Mitchell is in the 200 and 500 free. Sophomores Cameron Brandt and Jerron Miller, freshman Niklas Weigelt, junior Joe Snyder and senior Robbie Parker round out the boys relay lineups. Freshmen Eagle relay swimmers at NCS are Brooke Johnson, Erica DuLong, Lily Stagner and Julia Wickware. CVCHS also has Abbie Kubota, Kayleigh Rohrbach, Kayla Conger and Kristen Delong lined up for relays. TRACK & FIELD Clayton Valley Charter took second to Northgate in the boys and girls DVAL championships after the Eagle boys had gone undefeated in dual meets. Clayton Valley had incredible DVAL results in the shot put and discus. Kahlil McKenzie, Mykelle D’Tiole, Jake King and Jalen McKenzie swept the first four places in the shot put and Jeff Williams, Jalen McKenzie, King and Jack Fouts did likewise in the discus. Their teammates Tisi Alatini and Kiersten Fouts were 1-2 in girls discus. McKenzie in the shot put and discus, Williams in discus, Jordan Velasquez in the 100 meters and Brianne Newell in triple and long jumps are postseason contenders for CVCHS. The girls 4 X 100 meter relay with Jade Davis, Amber Booth, Katy Rangel, Jessica Johnson and Diwa Esco is also a team that can move forward. Tri Valley Area Meet is May 23 at Amador Valley in Pleasanton, the NCS Meet of Champions May 29-30 at Cal Berkeley and the CIF State Meet at Clovis Veterans Memorial Stadium June 5-6.

Jason Rogers photo

GEO FONSECA PLACED FOURTH IN THE 800 METERS at the DVAL track and field championships last week and is moving on in NCS competition. Eagles freshman Dylan White took third in the 320 and Sam Givens to advance.

BASEBALL DVAL baseball and perhaps NCS is graced with a once-in-ageneration player in College

Joern Weigelt photo

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER JUNIOR ANTHONY VINES is seeded in the top 11 for both the 50 free and 100 fly at this week’s North Coast Section swimming championships. His classmate Ryan Levy is seeded eighth in the 50 and 100 frees.

Park’s Joe DeMers, reputed to be in line for the National player of the year award. The senior is a lock to win his fourth straight league MVP award. He’s been called by one long-time local baseball observer “a combination of Clayton Valley pitching legend Ron Olson and Ygnacio Valley High’s Kiko Garcia [who went on to star in the World Series for the Baltimore Orioles].” DeMers lost a pitching duel with De La Salle’s Justin Hopper last weekend at Cal Berkeley at sold out Evans Diamond. In front of a pack of pro baseball scouts and 2500 fans, DeMers and Hopper hooked up in a pitching matchup that ended with the Spartans scoring three runs in the bottom of the sixth for a 3-0 victory, handing DeMers his first loss since last March. The Falcons won the Division II NCS championship last year after being eliminated in the semi-finals in 2012 and 2013. De La Salle has been even a little better winning two of the past three Division I titles (2012 and 2014) plus finishing second in 2011 and 2013 when they weren’t champs. The last league games are this week. The four-team league playoffs are May 19 and 21.

NCS starts May 26 and runs through finals June 5 and 6. BOYS GOLF Northgate took the DVAL championship by 12 strokes over Clayton Valley Charter at Diablo Creek Golf Course. Dominic Salomne was medalist with one over par 73 for College Park. He then took fourth at NCS qualifier to advance to the Tournament of Champions. Sophomore Daniel Schaefer finished fourth and junior Tyler Blazer sixth for CVCHS at the league meet and earned individual berths at NCS qualifier. De La Salle won the NCS Division I qualifier last week by seven strokes over league rival San Ramon Valley to reach this week’s TOC at Monarch Bay GC in San Leandro. The NorCal Championships are next Monday at Corral De Tierra Country Club in Salinas leading to the state finals at Poppy Hills GC in Pebble Beach June 3. BOYS TENNIS College Park swept the singles and double titles at the DVAL tournament. LACROSSE Carondelet had its three-year reign as NCS champions

stopped in the 2014 finals by league rival Amador Valley. De La Salle won its fourth NCS crown since 2008 last year. DLS is No. 3 seed this year while Carondelet is sixth seed. College Park qualified boys and girls teams for NCS. NCS play began this week and runs through May 23 for boys and May 21 for girls. SOFTBALL Concord teams have been a major factor in NCS Division II softball this decade. Concord High has won three NCS titles since 2010 while Carondelet was second in 2011 and 2014 and CVCHS was runner-up to its cross-town rival Concord in 2013. Final DVAL games are this week with the league tournament for the top four teams May 19 and 21. NCS begins May 26 and concludes June 6. BOY’S VOLLEYBALL De La Salle is seeded second and College Park sixth in Division I NCS. Northgate and Concord are in DII of this year’s section championships that began this week and run through May 23. Northgate (DII) and De La Salle (DI) were section runners-up last year. NorCals are May 26-30.

Kristian Ipsen qualifies for Worlds by finishing first and second! JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Clayton’s Kristian Ipsen kept up a hectic schedule when he barely finished his final NCAA Swimming and Diving Championships for Stanford in

Iowa and he was headed to Greensboro, NC less than two weeks later for the USA Diving Synchronized National Championships. The stakes were high in Carolina as berths for the American synchro teams in the

World Championships were in the offing for the winners. Ipsen ended up doing something unique as he finished first and second in the threemeter synchro event earning the Clayton man a trip to Kazan, Russia for the World

Championships beginning July 24. Sam Dorman teamed with Ipsen to score 853.38 points over two lists of 3M synchro dives to earn the national title and a trip to the World Championships. The pair sat in third

Clayton Valley doubles teams reach DVAL semis

Photos courtesy CVCHS tennis

DYLAN KIES AND DANIEL CASTRO (left photo) reached the semi-finals at the Diablo Valley Athletic League tennis tournament as Clayton Valley Charter’s No. 1 doubles team. Their teammates, DONOVAN HUNTER AND BEN SMITH, were losers of the other semi for new coach Tammie Snyder. The first-year coach inherited a team hit hard by losing seven seniors who graduated last spring and had only one single senior on this year’s squad. CVCHS ended up third in the Diablo Valley Athletic League behind champion College Park and Northgate. Four of her five freshmen had never played tennis until his spring season. Not a single Eagles player taking part at DVALs had been in the league tournament before.

place after the preliminaries. The duo came back with 438.45 points in the finals to secure the national title. Dorman and Ipsen took the lead after their fifth round front 3 ½ pike scored 80.91 points, while the two teams ahead of them — coincidentally teams they also were a part of — missed their dives in that same round. Ipsen also finished second teaming with Troy Dumais as divers could compete on more than one team. Ipsen and Dumais, the 2012 Olympic bronze medalists in 3M synchro, finished second to Ipsen and Dorman with 834.81 points. “I’m super tired now. It wasn’t too difficult (diving with more than one partner) because we all do similar hurdles and similar back presses. It was a little confusing having to think before we went what dive we were doing next. Our [his two teams] orders were completely different and I had to keep looking at the sheet to make sure we were doing the right dive. Other than that, it wasn’t too bad. It was pretty fun, actually,” Ipsen said. “I’m excited. Sam and I are both finishing up college, so we’re going to be able to get in a little more training time together, which will be nice. Before this, the last time Sam and I trained together was U.S.

nationals in Ohio in December. I feel like we’ll be able to perfect some of the little things before Worlds.” Ipsen was voted Pac-12 Conference Men’s Diver of the Year for the third straight time after sweeping the diving competition at the Pac-12 Championships, the second Stanford performer ever to do so. His conference titles in the 1meter, 3-meter and platform competitions brought his alltime Pac-12 title count to six. He did not compete in the Pac-12 meet as a freshman as he prepped for the 2012 US Olympic Trials. USA Diving also announced that Ipsen is one of 32 divers selected to the AT&T High Performance Squad for 2015. The AT&T High Performance Squad includes the divers who most exhibit the potential, skill and determination to become 2016 Olympic Team members. Pending U.S. qualification, a maximum of 16 divers will compete for Team USA at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. The squad has been proven to be a pipeline to the Olympics as all 11 members of the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team for diving were members of the group in the years leading up to London. USA Diving contributed to this story.

May 15, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 13

Sports year, he qualified for North Coast Section and hopes to do so again this weekend. Snyder has received the team’s “Most Improved” award for water polo. Since starting to swim at Dana Hills he’s learned an important lesson: “Hard work always pays off. You get what you put in. In a cliché you say ‘you reap what you sow.’” Out of the pool he volunteers in his spare time and is part of the CVCHS Public Service Academy. He will also be coaching at Dana Hills during the summer recreation season. CVCHS student journalist Celine Herrera contributed to this Spotlight.

Athlete Spotlight Joe Snyder Grade: Junior Sports: Swimming, Water Polo

JOE SNYDER

School: CVCHS Clayton Valley Charter junior Joe Snyder has been competing in swimming since grade school. He began in the Dana Hills pool as a member of the DHST Otters and has been of the Concord city championship team every year as well as taking

part in County Meets for the Clayton team. When he went to CVCHS he not only joined the swim team but also the Eagles water polo squad. During his three years on varsity he’s swam the 100-meter freestyle and 100 backstroke. Also he’s been on the 200 and 400 free relays. Last

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

Clayton Valley Hall of Fame Class of ’15 honors special athletes, teams, coaches

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Photo courtesy Clayton Valley High School

THE 1967 NORTH COAST SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING TEAM OF COACH ROGER ZINO will be inducted into the school’s athletic Hall of Fame Saturday. The team was undefeated while racking up 11 place finishers at the league meet. They went on to win the school’s first NCS wrestling title and then was second among 275 high schools at the North State Tournament. The team included, front row from left, Jim Skiles, Derrell Hoschouer, Walt Roberts, Dave DuBois, Rick Beberg, Pat Martucci, Doug Balough; middle row, Gary Foster, Steve Wagner, Bob Beard, Bruce Irvine, Jeff Cuthberson, Mike Aquir, Larry Kanagaki, Tom Lockyer; back row, George Shinn, Lenny Davenport, Ross Eversole, Bob Sherman and Lancer Smith. JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Ten athletes including two Olympic bronze medalists, a coach, two teams and a community supporter comprise the fourth class being inducted into the Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame this Saturday evening. The Pioneer earlier profiled honorees Community Supporter Matt Mazzei, 1977 girls volleyball team and coach Gary Gardner, 1967 wrestling team and future United States Olympians Erin Dobratz McGregor (2000 swimming) and Kara Kohler (2009 swimming). The other inductees are: DERRELL HOSCHOUER (CLASS OF 1967 WRESTLING AND TRACK) He was 28-1-1 his senior year for the North Coast Section champion wrestling team that took second at North State. The Eagles won the Del Valle and Diablo Valley Athletic League tournaments while Hoschouer won Del Valle, league tourney and dual meet, NCS and North State individual titles and was named East Bay wrestler of the year. As a junior he was part of another strong Eagles team that took fifth at North State and third at NCS. He competed in the pole vault two years as well. TOM MCCARTY (1972 FOOTBALL AND BASEBALL) McCarty captained the Clay-

ton Valley football and baseball teams in his senior year which he capped as CVHS athlete of the year. After being second team all-DVAL as a junior safety he was a two-way all-league standout his final year including being picked for the Contra Costa Cerebral Palsy All-Star game where he scored a twopoint conversion in a 14-12 victory. A highlight of his senior year was leading CVHS to its first-ever football win over Antioch. He led the league in touchdown passes and in interceptions as a defensive back. He later coached at seven high schools including his alma mater and at UC Davis. PAUL BELLUOMINI (1974 FOOTBALL, WRESTLING AND TRACK) He earned six varsity letters—two each in football, wrestling and track. Belluomini helped the Eagles to the DVAL football title as a junior and then the Turkey Bowl championship his senior year when he was a team captain. He was wrestling team MVP as a senior and DVAL champ as a junior. He had the fastest pin of 12 seconds at the Livermore Invitational. He finished his senior year winning two of the school’s most prestigious awards: Grand Altair and athlete of the year. He received an appointment to the US Military Academy and won other scholar athlete awards. He was the San Francisco 49ers training camp center from 1981-89.

JOHN MAHLOCH (1986 BASKETBALL) A four-year varsity basketball standout, Mahloch set nine school records, many of which still stand three decades later. He was a three-year team captain, winning many tournament, league and East Bay honors. He was the DVAL’s top scorer his junior and senior years, unanimous all-league. As a senior Mahloch was second team all-Northern California and led the Eagles to the most wins in school history25, also still a record. He was recognized as athlete of the year in 1986. He played two years of college basketball at Stanislaus State and helped the Warriors to a league championship.

TIFFANY EDWARDS PANFILI (1990 SOCCER, TENNIS, SOFTBALL AND TRACK) She came to Clayton Valley as a sophomore after spending her freshman year in England. She played three years of varsity soccer and softball, two years of track and added a fourth sport as a senior part of the No. 1 Eagles tennis doubles team. That earned Edwards athlete of year in 1990. She was an allAmerica softball player as a senior and played on a traveling softball team that made it to the national championship game. She went to Cal Berkeley where she demonstrated her versatility by scoring in the top seven nationally in the heptathlon. She qualified for the 1992 Olympic Trails in the javelin.

MIKE WOJCIEHOWSKI (1996 CROSS COUNTRY AND TRACK)

LORI HOKERSON (1991 VOLLEYBALL, SOCCER AND TRACK) Hokerson managed to earn 11 varsity letters that led to athlete of the year honors as a senior as well as several scholar athlete awards. Her track exploits included a CIF state meet every year except when injuries sidelined her as a sophomore. Her final year Hokerson won Bay Valley Athletic League, NCS and NCS Meet of Champions in the 300 low hurdles. That earned her a place in the nationally-renowned Golden West Invitational. Showing she wasn’t all business all the time as a senior she won the track’s Best Escape from Practice Team Award. Her

Middle distance runner Wojciechowski won DVAL track titles three years and was the league cross country titlist twice. As a senior he was Foot Locker National second team all-West after taking second at NCS and helping the Eagles to the runner-up section placement. The team and Woj then replicated those finishes in CIS Division III cross country. After Clayton Valley he was Diablo Valley College MVP and went on to UC Davis as a cross country national qualifier. He still holds the school 1600 meter record from 1996 when he was in the top 30 nationally.

See Hall of Fame, pg 15

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Sports Final NCS realignment keeps Clayton Valley Charter High with all seven DVAL schools in new super league 2016-2020 JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

The mystery of where Clayton Valley Charter High School sports teams will play starting in 2016 was finally settled at the end of last month when the North Coast Section Board of Governors accepted the final proposal presented by its NCS Alignment Committee that combines the Diablo Valley Athletic League’s seven schools with five from the Diablo Foothill Athletic League in a new super league. This decision culminated the quadrennial process that began a year ago and places schools in leagues from the fall of 2016 through spring 2020. NCS undertakes this review every four years to ”balance the needs of geographic proximity, time and cost of travel, loss of instructional time and competitive equity.” The final alignment keeps Eagles sports teams with the other six Diablo Valley Athletic League schools (College Park, Concord, Ygnacio Valley, Northgate, Berean Christian and Mt. Diablo) in the new 12-team super

league with five Diablo Foothill Athletic League teams (Acalanes, Alhambra, Campolindo, Las Lomas and Miramonte). CVCHS was the only school in the Valley Conference still in flux after the NCS Alignment Committee met at the end of February and changed its recommendation from last fall to move Clayton Valley Charter to the East County-based Bay Valley Athletic League following an appeal by Heritage High of Brentwood. Heritage appealed the realignment setup that moved Clayton Valley to the BVAL based on longer travel times to the Concord school which would increase transportation costs and cause a loss of instructional time for the East County schools. The alignment committee eventually went back to a proposal submitted by Clayton Valley Charter executive director Dave Linzey last October that has been termed “Clayton Valley Charter #2 Proposal.” In that setup the BVAL would remain with its six teams while CVCHS would join the rest of the current DVAL schools along

with five from the DFAL in a super league of 12 schools. Linzey said, “This was the super league proposal where we believe CVCHS belongs, so we are pleased with this decision. These schools in the DFAL have more sports and levels of athletics similar to CVCHS as opposed to the BVAL schools.” Generally in a super league setup each sport for boys and girls is aligned separately to get as much competitive equity as possible. In other words CVCHS would compete against teams of similar ability decided on a sport-by-sport basis. It’s understood that some DFAL schools (Campolindo and Miramonte in particular) were concerned about the new alignment since they anticipate 26-35 minute drives to Concord for games against Clayton Valley. DVAL commissioner Craig Lee and his DFAL counterpart Pat Lickiss are already working on the new league. “Next [school] year we will dive into the specifics during what will be a year-long effort that deals with each sport individually. Lee says the first items on

the agenda for setting up the new league are: • League leadership structure commissioner(s), officers • League structure - divisions, leagues, etc. • League name “Next fall we will meet in sport-specific committees to decide the details. We have to have the fall season sports completed by November 2015 so the fall teams can start committing to games for the 201617 season,” Lee added. “I have been encouraged by how the principals and athletic directors in both leagues are willing to

work together to come up with whatever is best for the students. It will be a very busy but very rewarding year. The new league is very diverse in many ways.” The schools joining with the DVAL schools have rich athletic histories. Campolindo of Moraga has won the SportStars Cup for overall excellence the past several years. Miramonte of Orinda has also racked up numerous section titles while Alhambra of Martinez, Acalanes of Lafayette and Las Lomas of Walnut Creek also have successful teams in various sports. The latter three

schools also have a long history playing Mt. Diablo, Clayton Valley, College Park and other Central Contra Costa schools. CVCHS co-athletic director Eric Bamberger, who is also the school’s boys basketball coach, said, “We are very pleased with the placement and look forward to competing in our new league in the fall of 2016.” Dublin and Dougherty Valley moved from the DFAL to the East Bay Athletic League to form a second 10-team super league that includes Carondelet and De La Salle with nine schools from the Tri-Valley area.

3 MDSA girls teams win soccer championships in Nevada

Anonymous email claims CVCHS started weight class for football In the past month another issue at Clayton Valley Charter High School arose when North Coast Section commissioner Gil Lemmon was sent an anonymous email March 10 claiming football coach Tim Murphy is conducting an unauthorized zero period weight training class this spring semester. Executive Director Dave Linzey and the school reacted quickly last month with a letter to Lemmon explaining the

process of adding the seventh strength and conditioning class for the second semester due to demand. The majority of students in the zero period class are members of the football team, which the letter writer claimed was set up to keep players eligible for fall play. Linzey stated adding the class “followed all protocols of our master schedule development and normal course offerings procedures.”

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The school is nearly halfway through a two-year NCS probation for violations that primarily arose through football practice and transfer issues. The anonymous claims, which Linzey said came from dissatisfied employees, appear to be aimed at impacting that probation. Further NCS violations could see suspensions of coaches, ineligibility of teams to take part in NCS competition or even more severe penalties for the athletic program at CVCHS. Lemmon told the Pioneer last week that he is “working on this review [of the weight training class]. My review is not complete.” The school’s new co-athletic directors Tom Sparks and Eric Bamberger were examining every transfer to the school and uncovered a freshman basketball player who did not complete his paperwork. They selfreported the violation to NCS and the frosh team had six games removed from the 201516 schedule and forfeited one game from this past season. This new violation certainly caught Lemmon’s attention. He said any further CVCHS issues could bring “serious consequences to multiple sports,” including postseason bans. - Jay Bedecarre

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Team Phoenix won the championship of the U10 silver bracket in Carson City, Nevada. The team went undefeated in four matches against teams from Pleasant Hill and Davis in nearfreezing cold temperatures, sleet, rain, hail and wind. Phoenix includes, front row from left, Katelynn Brown, Ashlyn Albert, Abigail Schauman, Lauren Gherlone, Melia Febriquer; back row, coach Heidi Brown, Hawah Opeyany, Campbell McGee, Jacklann Bellamy, Laine Moraes, Emily Beeson, Kaitlyn McNevin and coach Chris McNevin.

May 15, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 15

Sports

TYLER LEHMAN SPORTS TALK The 2015 National Football League draft was good overall for the Raiders and 49ers. After the free agency period both teams had numerous holes on their roster and were able to address some of those through the draft. The Raiders filled a major need at wide receiver with their

first-round pick Amari Cooper. The 6-1, 203-pound receiver from Alabama was the best collegiate route runner in the country last year. The pick of Cooper shows the Raiders are committed to making Derek Carr their franchise quarterback. USC defensive lineman Leonard Williams, considered by many the best prospect in the draft, was available when the Raiders made the fourth pick and Oakland opted to take Cooper, giving Carr a major weapon. Cooper will be an impact starter to begin the season. The new receiver and Carr are already being dubbed “AC/DC” by the silver and black fan base. The rest of the Raiders draft went reasonably well.

Hall of Fame, from page 13 Eagles soccer teams twice were NCS runners-up and another time a semi-finalist. LINDSAY KIYAMA (2005 WATER POLO, BASKETBALL AND SWIMMING) Kiyama, the second youngest member of the CVHS Hall of Fame, won four swimming, three water polo and two basketball varsity letters ending up with 2005 athlete of the year honors. Her sophomore year the water polo team racked up the most wins in school history with 20 and was NCS semi-finalist. The next two

years she was first-team all-BVAL. As a senior she was selected for the Contra Costa County postseason all-star basketball team. She qualified for NCS three years in swimming and was a finalist as a senior when she was team MVP in all three sports. She was UC Davis water polo MVP. The Hall of Fame began in 2008 during the school’s silver anniversary year. Additional classes were added in 2010 and 2013. The induction dinner is this Saturday, May 16, at Centre Concord.

Oakland GM Reggie McKenzie had a few reaches such as second round pick Mario Edwards Jr., a defensive tackle out of Florida State. He is extremely athletic, but the issue for him is work ethic. He ballooned up to 310 pounds last year at Florida State and played uninspired most of the year. He finished the season with only three sacks and 23 tackles. Some scouts had a firstround grade on Edwards Jr., but most had him ranked as a thirdor fourth-round pick. If he can keep his weight around 270 pounds like he was at his pro day, the sky is the limit. He could end up being the steal of the draft or a major bust. The Raiders also drafted tight end Clive Walford from Miami who should be another strong addition to the Oakland offense. Linebacker depth was added in the draft for the Raiders, as well as offensive line depth. Right guard is still an area of concern that the Raiders will need to address by the start of the season. The 49ers draft will be feast or famine. There is a lot of talent among the players they drafted, but their draft picks are raw and will require a lot of coaching. The 49ers first pick, Arik Armstead, is a physical freak, at 6-8, 280 pounds. He only amassed two and a half sacks last year at Oregon and will have to be coached to harness his talents. Armstead is a defensive line-

man, an area of expertise for new head coach Jim Tomsula. The 49ers, with their second pick, drafted Jaquiski Tartt, a hard-hitting safety out of Samford. Tartt looks like he can be a great safety, but like many of GM Trent Baalke’s picks in this draft, “best player available” reigned supreme over need. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing but the 49ers could have used some more cornerback and wide receiver help early in the draft. Safety wasn’t a pressing need with Eric Reid and Antione Bethea already on the roster. The 49ers did draft a wide receiver, DeAndre Smelter, in the fourth round. While talented, he tore his ACL last year at Georgia Tech, and will have to sit out a year before he is ready to play. The Raiders and 49ers both improved through the draft. The Raiders gave Carr some much-needed weapons on the offensive side of the ball while the 49ers bolstered their defense. There is no exact science behind the NFL draft and there are rarely “sure” picks. Both the Raiders and 49ers drafted some project players, but if coached properly, the 2015 draft could be a boon for each team. Tyler Lehman is a junior at San Francisco State University and a 2012 CVHS graduate. He is majoring in print/online journalism and wants to be a sports writer. Email your comments or questions to tyler@claytonpioneer.com.

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Sports Shorts JR. EAGLES YOUTH FOOTBALL, CHEER ORGANIZATION SIGNUPS SATRUDAY Clayton Valley youth football and cheer teams are now known as CVAA Jr. Eagles. Online registration for the upcoming fall football and cheer teams is open with the first in-person registration day this Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Clayton Community Park. Visit their new website cvaajreagles.com for more information.

SUMMER PROGRAMS REGISTRATION OPEN AT ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES Summer programs for youth basketball, youth volleyball and tee ball plus adult volleyball and softball are now open in Clayton offered by All Out Sports Leagues. For complete information on All Out Sports programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

DIABLO FC U15-U18 TEAMS HOLDING OPEN TRAINING SESSIONS

Diablo FC is holding open training sessions for boys and girls U15-U18 players for 2015-16 season. The club’s U15-U18 premier teams all compete in the highest level of Nor Cal Premier in the National Premier League. Open training sessions are an opportunity for players to train with teams and be evaluated for initial player placement. For more information and schedule visit diablofc.org.

ognizing college football’s premier student-athlete. A four-time academic all-conference award winner, Buhagiar is pursuing a master’s degree in psychology from SJSU.

OAKHURST REGULAR HELPS CAL STATE EAST BAY GOLFERS TO STELLAR SEASON Freshman Ignacio Ognian, who is a regular at Oakhurst Country Club, helped the Cal State East Bay men’s golf team to sixth place at the NCAA West/South Central Regional at Hiddenbrooke Golf Club in Vallejo. Despite firing the third-lowest score of the final day, the Pioneers just missed earning a spot in the NCAA National Championships. They finished the 54-hole tournament at 916, three strokes behind fifth-place West Texas A&M. The top five schools in the 20-team field advanced to Nationals. Although the Pioneers fell short in their bids to capture the CCAA Championship as runnersup or advance to the NCAA finals they closed out one of the best seasons in program history.

20TH RED DEVIL CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT JUNE 26 Registration is open for the 20th annual Red Devil Classic golf tournament scheduled for Friday, June 26, at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. Contact Lou Adamo louadamo@gmail.com or Ralph Vallis rv76667@aol.com to become a sponsor, play golf or attend the dinner. The event benefits Mt. Diablo High School student athletes and promotes academic success.

BUHAGIAR HONORED FOR 2ND TIME BY NATIONAL FOOTBALL FOUNDATION. San Jose State University linebacker Vince Buhagiar from Clayton Valley High is one of 817 seniors from the 2014 season to be awarded membership into the National Football Foundation and College Football Hall of Fame’s Hampshire Honor Society. The Society admits college football players who maintained a cumulative 3.20 or better grade-point average throughout their college career, was a starter or significant contributor in one’s final year of eligibility and met all NCAA requirements towards his degree requirements. A 2013 graduate majoring in psychology, Buhagiar completed his college football career last season as a four-year starting linebacker. He shared the 2014 team lead with a personal single-season best 96 tackles. In his four active seasons, he started 41 out of 50 games, was 2010 third-team Freshman All-America, 2012 first-team All-Western Athletic Conference choice and finished seventh on the San Jose State list for career tackles with 324. During the 2014 season, Buhagiar was a semifinalist for the NFF’s Campbell Trophy rec-

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FOOTBALL OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION SEEKING NEW MEMBERS

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

CONCORD CUP XXII SOCCER THIS WEEKEND The area’s largest annual youth soccer tournament, Concord Cup, returns for its 22nd season at a variety of local parks this Saturday and Sunday. About 90 boys and girls club and recreation teams from under 10 through U19 are taking part at five local parks. Visit concordcup.com for complete information and the schedule.

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MDSA FALL LEAGUE SIGNUPS ACCEPTED THROUGH JUNE 14 Boys and girls 4-18 years of age wanting to play in Mt. Diablo Soccer Association fall league can register for guaranteed placement until June 14. After that date players will be placed on wait-list. Fall league play begins in August when all registration closes. Families are requested to sign up for volunteer duties to help the organization offer its AYSO program. For complete information visit mdsoccer.org. CLAYTON VALLEY FOOTBALL CAMP JUNE 16-19 State championship finalist and Northern California Bowl winner Clayton Valley Charter High School hosts its Future Champions Youth Football Camp June 16-19 from 5-8 p.m. at the Concord school for players in second through eighth grades. Camp Director Michael Dominquez and Eagles head coach Tim Murphy explain that the camp has individual and group instruction and team competition with fundamentals and techniques of football taught by the CVCHS staff. To register, email coach.dmngz@gmail.com or call (925) 726-1503 for an application. AT

3 BASEBALL CAMP SESSIONS CLAYTON VALLEY THIS SUMMER

Clayton Valley Charter High School coach Casey Coakley has put together a staff of current CVCHS coaches and players as well as Eagle alumni to provide baseball instruction to youngsters 6-13 years of age at the school. The summer baseball camp will consist of instruction in the fundamentals of hitting, throwing, fielding, catch play and other aspects of the game. Summer baseball school sessions will be held June 15-18, June 22-25 and June 29-July 2. Each daily session runs 9 a.m.–12 noon. Fee is $120 for one session with discounts for multiple weeks. To reserve a baseball school spot or to get more information email casey.coakley@claytonvalley.org.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JUNE 3 FOR THE JUNE 12 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

IN CLAYTON Saturdays thru Sep. 19 Farmers’ Market 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown Clayton. pcfma.com/clayton. May 16 Free Shredding Open to the public. Limit three boxes or bags per household/business. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Travis Credit Union, 5441 Clayton Road, Clayton. (800) 877-8328.

May 16 “America Sings” Featuring the Blackhawk Chorus. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$28. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. May 16 Spring Concert Performed by Winds Across the Bay, Youth Wind Ensemble. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 23, June 6 Saturday Concerts in the Grove 6 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. ci.clayton.ca.us. For a complete concert series list, see Page 3.

May 17 “Life, Death, Dance” Performed by Diablo Symphony Orchestra. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$28. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 25 Memorial Day Observance Program to honor our lost heroes, sponsored by VFW Post 1525. Huey helicopter fly over and Huey on display. 10 a.m. Veterans Memorial flagpole monument, Main and Oak Streets, Clayton. Free.

May 17 “Sentinels of Freedom” An Armed Forces celebration by Contra Costa Wind Symphony. 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $18-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

June 1 Clayton Classic Golf tournament sponsored by CBCA. 12 p.m. shotgun start. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. claytoncbca.org/event/claytonclassic. 672-2272.

May 20 – June 14 “A Little Night Music” Rapturous and seductive musical. American Conservatory Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco. $20-$140. act-sf.org. (415) 7492228.

June 11 Thursday Concerts in the Grove Featuring local talent. 7 - 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. For a complete concert series list, see Page 3.

May 22 - 24 “Greater Tuna” Hilarious two-man show. Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez $10-$25. 439-7529.

IN CONCORD Pavilion Concert Schedule The Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road, Concord. theconcordpavilion.com. Shows start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. May 24, KBLX Stone Soul May 28, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga June 14, Spirit West Coast Festival July 3, California Symphony, 8 p.m. July 7, Smashing Pumpkins and Marilyn Manson July 9, Van Halen and Kenny Wayne Shepherd July 15, Chicago and Earth, Wind and Fire July 18, Sublime, 6 p.m. July 21, 5 Seconds of Summer Aug. 4, The Boys of Zummer Aug. 7, Idina Menzel Aug. 14, The Pink Print Tour Aug. 26, Slipknot Sep. 20, Counting Crows Tuesdays Farmers’ Market Tuesdays year round. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org. Thursdays Music and Market Thursday night live music and farmers’ market. Music: May 28, Concord High Jazz Band; June 4, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, June 11, It’s a Beautiful Day. Market 4 – 8 p.m.; music 6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org. 3rd Sundays Antique Faire Antiques, collectibles, handmade arts and crafts. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free admission. concordantiquefaire.com. May 23 – 25 KidFest Nonstop activities for kids, tweens and parents; arts and crafts, food court and rides. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 2450 Grant St., downtown Concord. $6 with canned food donation for Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano; $7 without. kidfestconcord.com.

ON THE MOUNTAIN Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Events Calendar for more information. May 16 Butterfly Walk Walk to find butterflies and wildflowers. 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon Trailhead. May 17 Oak Knoll Hike Hike to the Summit and visit interpretive center before returning. 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Meet at Juniper Camp Trailhead. Snake presentation at Summit Audio Visual Room from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 7 Round the Mountain Hike Views in all directions as you circle the park’s dominant peak via Deer Flat, Prospector’s Gap and Oak Knoll. 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Meet at Juniper Camp Trailhead.

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Thru May 17 “Greater Tuna” Hilarious two-man show. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $10-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611. May 15 - 16 “Get Happy” Concert by Diablo Women’s Chorale. Mount Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church 55, Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. $10-$20. diablowomenschorale.org. May 15 – 16 “Mulan Jr.” Presented by Arts Education, Teen Theatre. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $16.75. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

May 22 – June 27 “Anything Goes” As the SS American heads out to sea, two unlikely pairs set off on a course to true love. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $37-$63. centerrep.org. May 23 Age of Improv Presented by Trapped in a Rumor. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. May 23 Papa Doo Run Run Performing classic rock hits of the 1960s and 1970s and the Beach Boys. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com. May 24 “I’ll be Seeing Youz” A Bronx boy’s musical perspective of WWII performed by Franc D’Ambrosio. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com. May 28 “A Musical Journey” Songs from around the world by Festival Opera Lite. 7 p.m. Walnut Creek Marriott, 2355 North Main St., Walnut Creek. 9342000. May 29 – 30 “Unlaced: A Study of Control and Chaos” Presented by Smuin Ballet. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $54-$73. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 5 Jurassic Improv Presented by Trapped in a Rumor. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 6 Comedy Don Reed, featuring Melissa Villasenor and hosted by Emily Epstein White. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $17-$20. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611. June 6 Improv Invasion Presented by Commander Doug Productions. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 6 “The Show 2015” Presented by Dance Fusion Company. 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 7 Piano Recital Presented by The Ballet School. 5:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Church, 2317 Buena Vista Ave., Walnut Creek. $10-$15. walnutcreekchorus.com. May 20 “Two Among the Righteous Few” Author Marty Brounstein shares a true story of courage and rescue during the Holocaust; one with a personal connection as well. 11 a.m.; potluck 12 p.m. Concord United Methodist Church, Sherrill Hall, 1645 West St., Concord. Free admission; books available for $13. 672-6870. May 30 Concert Pianist Erin Kathleen Downey performs modern works of Biblical classical music. 7:30 p.m. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $15. 672-4848.

SCHOOLS May 20 Spring Instrumental Concert Presented by Northgate High School. 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $5-$14.75. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

FUNDRAISERS 2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org. Clayton Relay For Life For a complete list of current fundraisers, see Page 22. May 15 – 17 Onstage Theatre Five lovely Onstage ladies perform to raise funds for a trip to New York City where they have been invited to perform “The Ladies Quintet.” Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $20$25. 676-5705. May 30 Bocce Tournament Sponsored by CVCHS Senior Men to renovate the CVCHS Teachers’ Lounge. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Ipsen Family Bocce Park, Main and Oak Streets, Clayton. $35. claytonvalley.org.

AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call 673-0659. May 18 College Financial Planning, 7 p.m. June 8: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m. The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or 6465455.

GOVERNMENT 1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

St. John’s Stage presents

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Nantucket Powerful solo drama. Kenward calls up his childhood experiences to expose the light and dark sides of “paradise.”

Friday, May 29

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St. John’s Episcopal Church 5555 Clayton Rd., Clayton

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June 13 “Don Quixote” Performed by Soo Dance Academy. 6 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $23-$28. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 13 – 14 “Guys and Dolls Jr.” Performed by Poison Apple Productions. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $18-$20. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 14 “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” Presented by The Vagabond Players. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $10-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com.

CHURCHES AND RELIGION May 17 “Come Travel with Us” Presented by Walnut Creek Chorus. 3 p.m. Trinity Lutheran

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May 15, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 17

Include pets in your disaster plans Colby and Brody If you’re like millions of pet owners nationwide, your pet is an important member of your household. Unfortunately our pets are affected by the same disasters that we are. The likelihood that you and your pets will survive an earthquake or other emergency such as a fire or flood depends largely on the emergency planning that you do today. Some of the things you can do today to prepare for the unexpected, such as an earthquake, are the same for any emergency. These things include putting together an animal emergency supply kit including water, food and medicines. Other important items include a collar with an ID tag and a harness or leash. A crate or other animal carrier is important especially for cats. Familiar items

DEBBIE DEMELLO

PET PAUSE such as toys, treats or bedding will help your pet cope with a stressful situation. Also make sure your pet’s microchips are updated. Create a plan to get away. Plan how you will gather your pets and where you will go. If you must evacuate, take your pets with you. Pets most likely cannot survive on their own and

even if they did you may not be able to find them when you return. If you go to a public shelter your pets may not be allowed inside. Try to secure appropriate shelter for them beforehand depending on the type and number of animals in your care. Consider family and friends in another location willing to take you and your pets in an emergency. Other options may include a hotel or motel that takes pets or a boarding facility or veterinary hospital. Find out before an emergency happens in any of these facilities are viable options for you and your pets. Develop a buddy system. In the event you are not at home when an earthquake or another disaster happens plan with neighbors or friends to make sure that someone is available to

care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to. Talk with your pet care buddies about your evacuation plans and show them where you keep your emergency supply kit. Also designate specific locations, one in your neighborhood and one farther away, where you can meet. Be sure and comfort your pet during a disaster. They are frightened too and having you near to reassure them will help. It will probably do a lot to help you too. If your pet is not ready to be comforted right away don’t force it. Let them come to you when they are ready. A good emergency plan can make the difference between life and death for you and your pets. Debbie DeMello is a dog trainer and owner of Who’s Training Who in Walnut Creek. Contact her at debdemello@aol.com

Will Windows sour Apple’s apps?

WILL CLANEY

TECH TALK It wasn’t that long ago that Microsoft released Windows 8 for the smartphone, tablet and PC, if you recall that uneventful release in 2012. The biggest drawback to Windows 8 was the lack of apps available to it. Apple, on the other hand, had nearly a quarter million apps in its App Store. Windows had a few thousand in their “beta” app store (aka Marketplace, now just called Store). So, Apple had a big lead in apps. Do they still have a lead?

Microsoft always was the programs leader during the heyday of Windows XP and Windows 7. It was the primary reason Windows grew so big so fast, and was loved by so many. There are millions of programs that run on PCs, servers and laptops, even today. Just to be clear, and to try to shed some light on the subject, Microsoft calls executable software “programs” and Apple says “apps.” So what’s the difference, tomato-tomahto? The difference between an app and a program is how it works. In simple terms, programs contain nearly all the software needed to execute the program, mostly independent of the operating system, whereas apps are smaller and reuse software already part of the operating environment and are more dependent on the operating system. A program can take hours to load, an app in minutes. A program must be uninstalled, an

app can be gone in one click. During the Steve Jobs days, as it is today, Apple required developers to get approval of their app before it was offered for sale in the App Store. They did this as a discipline so apps would run as promoted. Apple’s attention to detail is what makes them great. But, therein lays a problem. For some developers the Apple requirements seemed too strict. They chose the Microsoft environment for development instead, that helped launch the largest trove of programs ever. Fast forward to today. We see a similar theme playing out. This time however, Microsoft has a new advantage; it can utilize both programs and apps. According to some basic research on the subject Apple stands at approximately 1.3 million apps, and apps for

Microsoft Windows 8 are approximately 400,000. So the clear winner: Apple. Or is it? With so many legacy applications already in service for Windows XP and 7, Microsoft is busy porting (adapting) them to be apps in the Store for Windows 10, but until then they work as regular programs. Soon the combined Microsoft “programs and apps” or “pro-apps” will rule the market once again. Windows 10 is a game changer but will it be enough to overpower Apple’s lead? My opinion is it will because of the abundance of legacy programs and the desire of users to keep running what they know best. For them it’s tomato. Visit your local computer dealer for a demo. William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to will@claytonpioneer.com.

are ARF Stars

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One-year-old Colby is a mellow, lovable boy who would be great for a first time dog owner. He would love to join his family on a nice weekend hike, or relax and watch TV. Is good with cats, children, and other dogs. We recommend Colby take a Basic Manners class where he can learn polite ways of seeking creature comforts in life. He currently weighs 77 pounds. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 50% off one 7-week dog training session.

able for a first time cat guardian. The adoption fee for adult cats is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday. The primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arflife.org, or call (925) 256-1ARF.

Brody is a sweet five-yearold boy who can be a tad timid at first but not for long. Once he settles in, he loves to “chirp” to you, and is very interactive and loving. He will soon become your new best friend! He is suit-

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Someday your prints will come SUSAN SAPPINGTON

CLOTHES UP This month’s article is all about “scale.” It is the third of the three-part series, “Creating the Illusion” with our wardrobe. What does scale mean? Scale is all about the prints we choose to wear. Many of us are frightened of prints because we do not know if they should be worn on top or on the bottom. More than not knowing, we especially shy away from wearing any type of print on the bottom because we feel it draws attention to areas we do not want people to notice. Because of our tendency to stay away from prints, many of us often dress completely “monochromatic” (which means one solid color, head to toe). This article will help you make the decision if prints are right for you and if so, how to determine which print to wear. The size of the print is very important. Larger prints work better on larger women. Conversely, a larger print can overwhelm the smaller frame while the smaller prints can make larger women appear even larger.

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As discussed in past articles, using inside-outside lines can help with illusion. The same holds true with print. If a print is worn on top, it is best to wear a solid color on the outside. This can be as simple as a cardigan, shrug, jacket, etc. This will give the illusion of length. Wearing prints on the bottom can be tricky. Triangle or oval shaped-people should consider wearing solid colored shirts or slacks as this is really the best choice. Women who are more rectangle, hourglass or an inverted triangle can get away with wearing prints on the bottom. Some women need to wear prints on the bottom to create

the illusion of adding more “tush” (for those of us lacking in the bum area). For most women, wearing print on the top is the safest and usually the most flattering. It is great knowing what looks fabulous on our different body shapes. What about handbags and jewelry? We need to keep the size of our frames in mind when selecting accessories. While today’s oversized handbags and statement necklaces may be popular, it would be a shame if our lasting impression on someone was the gigantic necklace we wore or the handbag we carried, instead of our face.

No matter what your shape, no matter whether you wear prints or solids, remember to forget what the tag size says. It is just a number. What matters is the proper fit. We are excited to bring ETCETERA Clothing to Clayton. Our first show featuring the Spring/Summer collection will be May 8 – May 22. Please contact me for your personal appointment. Next time, “Dressing for Your Age.” Susan Sappington is a wardrobe consultantant the area development manager for EtCetera Styles. Send comments to susan@etcstyles.com

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May 15, 2015

Clayton Cleans Up celebrates Earth Day Undaunted by cloudy skies, nearly 200 Claytonians — big and little — turned out for the annual Clayton Cleans Up event, held in conjunction with Earth Day Clad in bright green t-shirts with custom artwork designed by local artist Elena Nielsen, and carrying big orange bags, the trash-seekers fanned out through city streets and trails in search of cigarette butts, cans, bottles and all manner of litter. Every year, someone finds something noteworthy. This year, Boy Scout Troop 262 dragged a mattress out of the creek. The boys were rewarded

2 3

Photos counter-clockwise from top left.

for their day’s work by finding a nickel and two pennies. By noon, the streets were sparkling and ready for the Art and Wine Festival the following weekend. Hamburgers and hot dogs were waiting back at City Hall along with local organizations sharing ideas for enjoying and caring for natural resources. The event is sponsored by the Clayton Pioneer, Republic Services, Travis Credit Union, the City of Clayton, Innovative Impressions, CBCA, Peet’s Coffee & Tea and Orchard Supply Hardware.

5 4

1. CVCHS Garden Club Team Blue got down to some serious work at the library: Bryce Pamer, Peyton Siville, Floyd McCluhan, and Claire Olson 2. Lil’ dude, Cooper Calabio proves size doesn’t matter when it comes to picking up trash. Shirt was a little big, but he’ll grow into it. 3. Boy Scouts Troop 262 were the proud finders of a mattress, a nickel and two pennies: Nathan Burkhardt, Cian Murphy, Ellie Pierce, Gavin Pierce, Ruairi Murphy, Rob Pierce, Dylan Lynch, Martin Lynch, Austin Burkhardt and Sean Murphy. 4. Republic Services not only provided all the food, they sent Fred Rapetto (left) to help Howard Geller grill the burgers. 5. Brownies from Troop 32481 and Junior Troop 30124, Claire Calabio, Lindsey Wiggenhauser, Kiley Ruff and Isabelle Ruff with parent Jennifer Ruff Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

Book Review

Estate, from page 9

Action-packed ‘Thieves’ steals your interest SUNNY SOLOMON

FOR

THE

BOOKS

“Among Thieves?” Shouldn’t it be “Honor Among Thieves?” Nope, author John Clarkson got it right; there is no honor among the thieves and other lowlifes found in this crime thriller. I’m reviewing “Among Thieves” by Clarkson (Minotaur Books, February 2015) because by the time this newspaper comes out, Mother’s Day will have come and gone and “Among Thieves” would make a great Father’s Day gift. Every character in the novel is a thief, thug or ex-con, but some of the bad guys (and two women) are badder than others. Clarkson makes you read a bit before the plot takes shape and you know, or think you know, who the good bad guys are. The story opens: “Tuesday morning started out damn near perfect. Right up until Demarco Jones told James Beck, ‘Manny wants to kill somebody.’” Beck, an ex-con himself, knows that if Manny used “the word kill, it was not metaphorical.” Beck is one of the good bad guys and ex-cons Manny Guzman, Demarco Jones and Ciro Baldassare are Beck’s partners, operating out of a bar in Brook-

lyn’s Red Hook neighborhood. The potential kill-ee is a crooked Wall Street guy who has injured, fired and threatened to blackball Manny’s cousin Olivia Sanchez from ever working on Wall Street again. Olivia suspects some very bad trading in a major hedge fund at the firm where she is now no longer employed. Olivia turns to Manny for help, Manny turns to Demarco, and Demarco to Beck, knowing that cooler heads than Manny’s should prevail. And Beck is cool, but after calling on Olivia to find out what she expects Manny to do for her, he realizes Olivia’s problem involves much more than her being fired. That problem quickly becomes Beck’s and goes from singular to plural. The funds, not quite hedged bets, are in the millions and involve mobsters, a Russian arms dealer, the U.S. military, common thugs, an exNYPD officer as bodyguard for the Wall Street guy, Russian mobsters to protect the arms dealer and offshore bank accounts to protect all those illegal millions. Did I mention Glocks? Initially, they’re after Olivia who knows too much, then Beck for trying to help Olivia. On Beck’s side are ex-cons who know their way around weapons like a Benelli M3 shotgun, a Winchester 12 gauge, a Charter Arms Bulldog .44 cal-

iber revolver, a Browning HiPower 9-mm automatic, and a humble six-inch Bucheimer sap. Beck’s “band of merry men” includes a doctor on call to fix those gunshot wounds, head butts and poked eyes, and an attorney, computer hacker and bevy of hoods to cover his back. The story accelerates like Beck’s customized 2003 Mercury Marauder. Clarkson piles one bloody and brutal confrontation on another, with a cast of well-drawn characters. Keeping track of the money becomes a deadly shell game Beck plays with cunning and “an alert state of calm.” He’s almost always ready for what comes next, even if the reader is not. Happy Father’s Day. Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com to ‘talk books.’

to determine if you’re mentally competent. Avoid the appearance of undue influence. If you reward someone who’s in a position to influence you, take steps to avoid the appearance of undue influence. Suppose, for example, that you plan to leave a substantial sum to a close friend who acts as your primary caregiver. To avoid a challenge, prepare your will independently — that is, under conditions that are free from interference by family members or other beneficiaries. People who’ll benefit under your estate plan shouldn’t be present when you meet with your attorney, nor

should they be present when you sign your will and other estate planning documents, or serve as witnesses. Talk to your family. If you plan to disinherit certain family members, give them reduced shares or give substantial sums to nonfamily members, make sure you meet with your family as soon as possible to explain your reasoning. If that’s not possible, state the reasons in your will or include a separate letter expressing your wishes. Family members are less likely to challenge your plan if they understand the rationale behind it. To deter challenges to your plan, consider including a no-

contest clause, which provides that if a beneficiary challenges your will or trust unsuccessfully, he or she will receive nothing. Keep in mind, however, that you must leave something to people who are likely to challenge your plan; otherwise, they have nothing to lose by contesting it. If your estate plan leaves any family members less of an inheritance than they expect, there’s a risk they’ll contest it. Although there’s no guaranteed way to protect your plan, the strategies discussed can minimize the chances that a disgruntled beneficiary will challenge your plan in court. Richard A. Littorno is an attorney specializing in estate planning. He has offices in Walnut Creek and Pittsburg. Send your questions to Richard@LittornoLaw.com.

Movie Review

Ageless Adaline must face her own ghosts In “The Age of Adaline,” the new film from director Lee Toland Krieger, the fountain of youth turns out to be as simple as crashing a car into a frozen lake, dying and then being brought back by a lightning strike. However, because Krieger creates such an enchanting history for his heroine, it’s rather easy to get past the set-up. Adaline Bowman does not look a day older than 29 and has been this way for more than 75 years. As Adaline, Blake Lively gives a graceful yet repressed performance; almost as if playing the role too hard or too loose would give away the character’s secret. Adaline is raising her daughter alone after her husband dies in the 1930s. After her car crash and subsequent rebirth into immortality, Adaline not only chooses to continue living a normal life, but she almost flaunts the fact that she always looks so young. This catches up to her when FBI agents track her down and just “want to talk.” She escapes and from then on, decides she must constantly move and change her identity at least once a decade. We pick up the story in late 2014, a few weeks before she is about to change into

someone else. Living now as Jennifer Larson, Adaline works in San Francisco. Cinematographer David Lanzenberg captures San Francisco beautifully with several sweeping overheads and a nocturnal time-lapse shot. At a New Year’s party, Adaline bumps into tech millionaire Ellis Jones, played by Michael Huisman. Infatuated, Jones keeps after Adaline, while she continues to push him away. Their story begs to be more interesting, but the emotional wall Adaline has built up frustrates Ellis as much as the viewer. It is not until Adaline meets Ellis’s father that the film takes a turn for the better. Harrison Ford’s appearance as William Jones gives “The Age of Adaline” the boost it really needs. One of the better moments in a film this year is when Ellis and Adaline step into the Jones’ family residence and William recognizes Adaline from his youth. What might otherwise be considered a convenient plot contrivance actually enhances the suspense. As William struggles with all the emotions that have bubbled up, Adaline debates whether she now has an excuse to run away yet again. The Adaline and William storyline is just enough

JEFF MELLINGER

SCREEN SHOTS to save the film and justify Krieger’s choice of romance as its backbone. “The Age of Adaline” posits that science is responsible for Adaline’s condition yet the film doesn’t explore it much. It puts all its weight behind the romance aspect. One wonders what the movie would have been had it swayed more toward the science-fiction genre. Some of the better scenes are between Adaline and her 80-year old daughter, played by the always sublime Ellen Burstyn. Adaline’s “lost love” flashbacks also work well but the relationship between her and Ellis just never really clicks. Despite the fact the film loses its nerve in the last 10 minutes, there is still enough about “The Age of Adaline” to recommend a viewing. BJeff Mellinger is a screen writer and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. He lives in Concord. Email comments to editor@concordpioneer.com.

May 15, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 19

Grill me some cheese, please

It’s National Grilled Cheese Sandwich month. You might think that the idea of combining cheese and bread goes back millennia, and you’d be right if you were to look at ancient Roman cookbooks. However, it appears the idea of grilling cheese and bread together is a 20th century phenomenon. The availability of inexpensive loaves of bread and processed cheese helped make grilled cheese a staple in 1920s America.

First prepared open face, it soon gained the second slice of bread to make it more filling. This sandwich provided critical nutrition during the Depression and it was a favorite of the Allied armed forces in World War II. School cafeterias and home cooks were soon making grilled cheese (with tomato soup, of course) part of regular meal plans. Almost 100 years later, you’ll still find grilled cheese in diners and fine dining establishments

alike. Kids love it and adults find it a comfort food. For a gourmet spin, substitute focaccia or ciabatta for white bread or use goat cheese or Gruyère. Other fancy ideas include adding tomato marmalade, jalapeno, blue cheese and maybe some thin-sliced roast beef. Or try a fried egg or even potato chips in the filling. You don’t have to be a fivestar cook to come up with your own unique version of the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Start by sneaking in international flavors. Make a version of a Cuban sandwich by melting Swiss cheese with dill pickles and thinly sliced ham on a soft roll, pressed flat during grilling. Grill a Caprese mix of sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil on some crusty French bread.

Caramelize some onions and combine with slices of Comte cheese on a soft baguette for a Parisian spin. Or make a grilled cheese dessert. Try blueberries, mascarpone cheese and Brie between thin bagel slices. Or Norwegian gjetost (a cow-goat cheese with distinctive sweet caramel notes) with sliced apples coated in cinnamon and sugar. My mama’s version of grilled cheese used a homemade version of a Southern staple: pimento cheese spread. Just like most treasured recipes, it has evolved over the years. For the current iteration, I recommend Tillamook cheese for its great melting properties. I usually use a dense, cracked wheat bread. I also tend to overfill the sandwich so some of the

filling spills onto the griddle and toasts on its own. Oh my, those little bits are tasty. PIMENTO CHEESE SPREAD (Serves 4) 2 c. shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese 1/3 c. mayonnaise 1 tsp. onion powder 1 (2 oz.) jar diced pimentos, drained 2 T. sweet pickle relish 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper 8 slices of bread Stir together cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, pimentos, pickle relish and cayenne pepper. Spread on four slices of bread and cover each with another slice. Melt butter on warm griddle and grill sandwiches until golden brown on each side.

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FOOD

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As a final note, if you’re going to a Giants game this year, stop at the American Grilled Cheese Kitchen and indulge in one of their glorious sandwiches. There is another location on Harrison in the Mission. Linda Wyner owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Send suggestions or questions to lwyner@pansonfire.com

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DESIGN & DÉCOR Spring is such a beautiful time of year. It’s an invitation to come and play outside and revisit the goodies you tucked away so carefully at the end of last summer. Whether it’s Patio dining and lounge furniture, a cobalt blue market umbrella, glazed pottery to hold your annuals or your beloved hammock, rummaging through your outdoor décor and bringing it out of hiding from the garage or the backyard shed is like Christmas in June. As you thoughtfully reassemble things, dusting and cleaning as you go, you may start to feel like something is missing. Could it be the outdoor pillow with the embroidered seashells? The pair of rustic lanterns for your dining table? No, you’re not missing an actual “thing,” you’re missing some “oompft.” Every living space, indoors and out, needs some “oompft” now and then. It’s the main ingredient in keeping things looking fresh. So, where can you get some much needed spring “oompft?” SWING FROM THE CHANDELIER Your breakfast nook table has a chandelier, your dining room table has a chandelier, maybe even your master bathroom and foyer have chandeliers. So, why not add a chande-

lier over your patio dining table? Whether it’s electrified or has battery operated candles, adding a chandelier will make a very festive and decorative statement. If you have a trellis over your table, or your table sits inside a gazebo, this makes things easy. You already have an “outdoor ceiling” from which to anchor the fixture. If you have an umbrella over your table, consider using fixtures that are typically battery operated or rechargeable and can attach to the umbrella pole. You can also swag a series of string lights inside the umbrella for a bit of sparkle and ambience. ROLL OUT THE CARPET… AND TOSS A PILLOW An outdoor area rug is the perfect way to group your outdoor furniture and create a designated lounge or dining space. Outdoor area rugs come in all sorts of wonderful synthetic fibers, sizes and colors that you can combine with your existing furnishings to create a wellrounded look. And don’t just stop there. In addition to the area rug, collect synthetic outdoor pillows to bring your lounge furniture to life. Maybe

an extra-wide bolster pillow for your love seat, a series of coordinating accent pillows for your sectional, or smaller kidney pillows for each of your dining chairs. And the clean-up of these synthetic jewels is so easy: warm water, mild dish soap, rinse with the hose and air dry. It’s a great summer project for the kids. PANELS WITH SWAG Outdoor drapery can create quite a bit of drama outdoors. Solid colored, big resort-like stripes, floral patterns, or geometric — consider adding panels to an existing gazebo or trellis to help with sun control as you read the Sunday paper, add privacy for an intimate outdoor dinner party, or produce a shaded area for the kids to play. Depending on the design aesthetic you’re after, drapery panels can be anything from a heavy canvas or sheer, gauze-like panels that float and move freely with the breeze. Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.

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Page 20

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Performing Arts

Theaters offer early summer laughs SALLY HOGARTY

STAGE STRUCK Help send a local theater company to New York by

attending a special performance of “The Ladies Quintet” on May 17 at 3 or 7 p.m. at the Martinez Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward Street, in Martinez. The show by Concord playwright Kathryn McCarty opens OffBroadway on June 3 at the Theatre Row Studios. The series of intimate solo performances has already run in Chicago and Los Angeles and now has its

sights set on the Big Apple for a one-week run. The cast of five women includes three local actresses (Helen Means, Sheilah Morrison and myself), who will perform at the fundraising event as well as singer Anita Viramontes. A question-andanswer session follows the show. For tickets to the May fundraiser, call 925-676-5705 or email tickets@galateanplayers.com. Pittsburg Community Theatre brings a little bit of small-town Texas to California with “Greater Tuna.” The good ole’ down-home laugh-out-loud fest runs May 14 - May 17 at the California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., in Pittsburg and May 22-24 at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward Street, in Martinez. Actors Gregory Brown and Brian Villanueva bring more

Photo: Jeff Strawther

GREGORY BROWN AS AUNT PEARL AND BRIAN VILLANUEVA AS STANLEY appear in the side-splitting ‘Greater Tuna’ at the California Theatre in Pittsburg May 14- 17 and the Campbell theater in Martinez May 22-24.

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MOLLY BELL STARS AS RENO SWEENY in the classic Cole Porter musical “Anything Goes” at the Lesher Center May 22 – June 27.

than 20 eccentric characters to life in rapid-fire performances. It’s always amazing to watch the as they walk behind a screen and immediately come out the other side as a totally different denizen of Tuna, Texas, where the Lion’s Club is considered too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. According to director Betty Brown, there is an “absolute scene stealer” in this production but she refuses to spoil the surprise so you’ll have to see for yourself. Tickets range from $10-$25 and can be purchased by calling 925-427-1611 (California Theatre) or 925-4397529 (Campbell Theatre) or by going online to www.pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com or www.eventbrite.com. A lovely heiress, a sexy nightclub singer, a crew of singing sailors and Public Enemy #13 are all on board to keep the action hot and heavy in Center Rep’s upcoming production of “Anything Goes.” The wonderful Cole Porter musical, directed by Michael Butler, runs May 22 – June 27 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts. Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Only Shakespeare could start with a violent storm at sea and manage to turn it into one of his finest comedies –“Twelfth Night.” This masterpiece of mistaken identities follows shipwrecked twins who must navigate across a strange island to find love – and each other. The comedy runs May 27 – June 21

GARY CARR Special to the Pioneer

basics, each performer will have a professional headshot taken, create a sample resume and learn an audition song as well as scenes from “Aladdin, Jr.,” “Matilda” and “Newsies.” Performances take place on July 2 at 1 and 3 p.m. at Endeavor Hall in Clayton. For more information, call 925-222-9106 or visit www.claytontheatrecompany.com. Sally Hogarty is well known around the Bay Area as a newspaper columnist, theatre critic and working actress. She is also the editor of the Orinda News. Send comments to sallyhogarty@gmail.com

Wouldn’t you rather be on an island? Are you sure about that? St. John’s Stage presents Mark Kenward’s solo show, “Nantucket,” at St. John’s Episcopal Church, on Friday, May 29. A master storyteller, Kenward plays all the characters with an astonishing ability to inhabit each role. “Nantucket” is a hilarious and haunting performance that takes an unflinching look at the dark side of paradise. The Contra Costa Times hailed the show as “astounding, funny and breathtaking,” and The Stark Insider marveled that “so powerful was his hold on the audience, the only evidence that anyone was even breathing was an occasional gasp.” When Kenward was 8-years old his family moved to Nantucket, arriving with all the dreams you would expect of people moving to a famous old island. But in the dead of winter Nantucket is a different place, where the reality is that not everyone will be a survivor.

After the show’s extended run at The Marsh Theatre in San Francisco last year wowed both audiences and critics, “Nantucket” returns for a 2015 North American tour. Following his performance at St. John’s, Kenward will take “Nantucket” on a two-month Fringe Festival tour to Berkeley, Ottawa, Toronto and Edmonton. Kenward has performed his work in more than 35 cities throughout the U.S. and Canada, including a reception for The House of Representatives. He has created seven full-length solo shows and directed several others, including Kurt Bodden’s “Steve Seabrook: Better Than You,” which played at St. John’s in 2012. “Nantucket” is directed by Rebecca Fisher. Performance time for the May 29 show is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 and can be bought online at www.BrownPaperTickets.com or by phone at 925672 8717. St. John’s Episcopal Church is located at 5555 Clayton Rd. in Clayton. “Nantucket” is not recommended for children under 13.

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at the Bruns Amphitheatre, 100 California Shakespeare Theater Way in Orinda. For more information, visit 510-540-9666 or www.calshakes.org. Following a successful run of “Arsenic and Old Lace,” the Clayton Theatre Company is preparing for Summer Stage, a theater camp for ages 6 – 16. Artistic director La Tonya Watts and managing director Roxanne Pardi will focus on musical theater training and preparation during the three-week camp, which takes place June 15 – July 1 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. In addition to learning theatrical

‘Nantucket’: One man is an island

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IN “NANTUCKET,” MARK KENWARD TAKES AUDIENCES ON A TRIP to the fabled island, using his childhood experiences to expose the light and dark sides of “paradise.”

May 15, 2015

‘Phantom’ returns with solo show Franc D’Ambrosio, best known for more than 2000 performances as “The Phantom” in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award-winning musical “The Phantom of the Opera,” returns to the Bay Area for a special Memorial Day weekend presentation at the El Campanil Theatre in Antioch. On Sunday, May 24, D’Ambrosio will perform his popular and critically acclaimed program, “Franc D’Ambrosio: I’ll Be Seeing Youz — A Bronx Boy’s Musical Perspective of WWII,” which celebrates the music and songs of the World War II era with his distinctive voice and style. It will also include a tribute to “The Phantom of the Opera.” Affectionately known as “The Iron Man of the Mask,” D’Ambrosio was awarded the distinction as the “World’s Longest Running Phantom” and retained the title for more than a decade. With the success of his national and international tours, he has joined the ranks of the famed Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman as only a handful of “Phantom” alumni to successfully crossover to solo careers. D’Ambrosio has been continuously touring for 11 years, and is also a frequent

FRANC D’AMBROSIO

guest artist with major orchestras and symphonies throughout the country. D’Ambrosio’s credits also include an Emmy Award-nominated television show, two Grammy considerations, a National Theatre Award nomination, and the coveted role of Anthony Corleone in “The Godfather — Part 3.” He has released the recorded version of this show, which is the No. 1-selling CD on the LML label, which will be available at his performance, along with several others of his recordings. For more information on the performance, visit the El Campanil Theatre’s website at www.elcampaniltheatre.com or call 925-7579500.

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 21

Dry winter means early Spring on Mt. Diablo FREE ESTIMATES

MIKE MARCHIANO

925-672-9955

MOUNTAIN MIKE Spring has sprung once again and once again it started in January. Wild flowers bloomed much earlier. Many are still in bloom, including poppies, lupine, Monkey flower, ethereal spears, serrated onions, mariposa lilies, and some Mount Diablo globe lilies. Chaparral that likes to extend its blooming season into June finished up in April this year. Another drought year with no snow pack in the Sierras is hitting this state very hard. On Mount Diablo the December rains gave us hope as creeks and springs started to flow and ponds filled for the first time in three years. But without the expected late winter rains these water sources will again dry up by early- to mid-summer rather than late fall. At least this year frogs and toads, tiger salamanders, fresh water shrimp, dragonflies and damsel flies along with myriad other aquatic insects have had enough time to mate, lay eggs and metamorphosis into adult. The effects of the drought have had severe consequences on a large stand of Coulter Pines in the Donner and Mitchell Canyon area. The trees were weakened by the lack of water and left them susceptible to a tiny (oneeighth of an inch) wood boring beetle. Little if anything should be done by humans to interfere. Nature needs to take its course and it will recover in a timely manner. The biggest thing these dying trees add to is the danger of fire. Everyone please be careful as we enter into this summer For any of you birders out there, Donner Canyon, Back Canyon and Mitchell Canyon are still some of the best spots in Contra Costa to see summer migrants, including tanagers, orioles, various warblers, vireos, black-chinned humming birds, calliope humming birds and Allen’s and Rufus hummers, to mention just a few. Check with Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association for any hikes led by the pros. An assortment of beautiful

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butterflies is also flying through the canyons, looking for buckeye, monkey flower, paintbrush and thistles. Large tiger and pale swallowtails, California sisters, Sarah orange tips, painted ladies, admirals, buckeyes, blues, coppers and hair streaks are filling the air. For those of you who hike Black Point, Twin Peaks, Eagle Peak and up to Mount Olympia, keep your eyes open for whip-tailed lizards and the ever camouflaged Coast Horn Lizard. These locations are the last stand for the horned lizard in Contra Costa, so it is very special to see this totally harmless and unique creature blending into its surroundings as it feeds on the indigenous harvester ants. Our only venomous snake in Northern California, the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake, is also out and about. This snake, which is rarely reaches four feet in length, is very timid and tries to avoid any human contact. It does not attack and only bites to eat small rodents or in self defense when attacked. Therefore do not try to pick one up or touch it. Leave it alone and continue on your way after admiring the beauty of this reptile — it will leave you alone. If you are fortunate you may see our other common reptiles, fence lizards (also called blue bellies), alligator lizards, Alameda whip snakes, gopher snakes or king snakes. None of these are a threat to humans but all will defend themselves, so leave them be. Finally, familiarize yourself with poison oak. It’s not lifethreatening but a real itchy nuisance for several weeks for those who touch it and do not wash it off. Michael Marchiano is a naturalist with Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association. Email comments or questions to mmarchiano@gmail.com.

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2090 Ricardo Dr. Concord

Call for Price

3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1646 sq.ft. Listing agent: Paula Johnstone

Rula Masannat Sales Agent

ACTIVE LISTING

DRE# 01923757

1041 Feather Cir. Clayton

415-310-2905 rulawithmazzei@yahoo.com

$674,900

3 Bath, 2.5 Bath, Approx. 1886 sq.ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

2415 Deer Tree Ct. Martinez

$464,900

3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1749 sq.ft. Listing agent: Rula Masannat

Paula Johnstone Broker Associate DRE# 00797857

925-381-8810 heypaula10@gmail.com

PENDING

27 Asbury Way, Pittsburg,

$294,900

3 Bed, 2 Bath, Approx. 1305 sq.ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

$435

3984 Royal Arch Dr. Concord

$400,000

3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1646 sq.ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

$345

Matt Mazzei, Jr.

SOLD: Buyer Representation $150

$75

440 Powell Dr, Bay Point

3 Bed, 2.5 Bath, 1426 sq. ft.

Broker/Owner $425,000

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959

925-693-0757 (Main)

DRE# 01881269

925-766-6745 mazzeirealty@yahoo.com

6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton

925-693-0752 (Fax)

Page 22

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

May 15, 2015

Moonshine Yarrow adds garden luster NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL Moonshine Yarrow has been a favorite perennial of Clayton garden lovers for many years. This classic perennial is tried and true. Moonshine Yarrow has all the attributes that one desires when gardening and landscaping in our Clayton climate. Moonshine yarrow has aromatic, fern-like silvery-gray foliage. The foliage of this

yarrow alone is intriguing. The silvery-gray color adds a pop to a landscape area, especially when surrounded by black micro bark, which provides instant contrast. Once spring begins to warm, Moonshine Yarrow’s growth surges. Foliage begins to expand, forming clumps that allow Moonshine’s flower stalks to form. These stalks can reach anywhere from 18 to 24 inches tall. Above the stems, tiny bright lemon-yellow flowers line flat flower clusters. These flat shaped flowers are very appealing to both bees and butterflies. Moonshine Yarrow is relatively carefree to grow. It thrives in full, hot sun and is very

drought tolerant. Spent flowers will need to be deadheaded, and the entire plant should have a severe pruning in the early summer to promote another glorious wave of flowers. This perennial is deer resistant and makes a great cut flower. Unlike other yarrow, Moonshine has sterile flowers, therefore you don’t have to worry about this perennial running crazily throughout the garden. Moonshine Yarrow is an approved perennial by the Contra Costa Water Department for water-wise plant installations. For those craving summer color in their lawn replacement project, Moonshine Yarrow may just the

perennial to consider. It is easy to find companion plants to accent Moonshine Yarrow. Salvia Hot Lips and Moonshine Yarrow planted together make a stunning spring-through-summer display. Add some dark purple from Penstomen Midnight, or Lavender Hidcote to cool down the display. Evergreen companion plants to consider with the Moonshine Yarrow would be Rhaplioepsis Rubrum Compacta and Grevillea low form. Moonshine Yarrow isn’t picky about how it’s installed. Make sure your hole is double the width of the container that the plant purchased in, add a

handful of planting mix to the hole, loosen roots of the plant before placing in the hole and cover with more planting mix. You will have to water to establish. Please keep in mind that drought tolerant plants are tolerant of drought after they are established. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Contact her with questions or comments at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

Relay offers hope, opportunity to fight cancer PAT MIDDENDORF Special to the Pioneer

Our community has not gone untouched by cancer. That’s why Clayton’s Relay for Life, to be held Aug. 15-16, is a unique 24-hour celebration of cancer survivorship and a tribute to those who lost their battle to this disease. The American Cancer Society first started Relay for Life 30 years ago and this year Clayton Relay is celebrating its Fifth-year Anniversary. Last year there were hundreds of participants and dozens of teams at the event. Supporters across the city of Clayton raised funds for the ACS and took to the track in honor of loved ones and friends affected by this pervasive disease —raising more than $85,000! Clayton Relay Leadership Team member Mindy Thompson reflects on why she is passionate about this event: “I Relay to help the cause. I Relay to end Cancer. I Relay so hopefully my children won’t have to

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

CANCER SURVIVORS AND THEIR CAREGIVERS lead off last year’s American Cancer Society Relay for Life. This year’s event will be held at Mt. Diablo Elementary on Aug 15-16.

go through the loss I did as I watched my father die from this deadly disease.” Many people carry a similar message. Terry Newberry of Magic Entertainment says, “Not only is it the right thing to do for the community and the cause, it’s a fight that we all need to

participate in. I am honored to provide my services.” SO WHAT CAN YOU DO? First, Relay for Life is looking for teams. There are already many incredible teams such as St. John’s Cancer Crusaders, Flower Sisters, Campers for a

Cure, Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise Rotary, the Pink Party Posse, the Gamma Girls, Team Christy and Team Anu that come together in a show of unity so they can contribute to this crucial cause. Teams join from local businesses, community organizations, families, neighborhoods, sport teams, schools, and just about anywhere. All teams will rally together to take turns walking the track at Mt. Diablo Elementary on August 15-16. Each team will strive to have a representative on the track at all times while entertainment, music and fun activities keep a festive atmosphere to celebrate the gains made in the fight against cancer To form a team please contact Sydney Alcock at Sydney@sktm.com. There are also many sponsorship opportunities. Though we’ve come a long way in the fight against cancer, sponsorships by businesses and organizations help fund groundbreaking research, discover ways to

The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club installed officers for the 2015-16 year on April 14. The newly elected officers are: Merle Whitburn/auditor, Connie Weimar/president, Maggie Gardner/co-president and coeditor, Kathy Hester/co-president, Sheila Driscoll/vice president, Aleta Huck/co-vice president, Jeanne Groschwitz/ recording secretary, Sharon Hupp/corresponding secretary, Joyce Atkinson/treasurer, Rosemary Harwood/budget director and Nancy

Domingo/parliamentarian. The club was organized and federated in 1973. They have several major fundraisers each year to donate funds to community organizations and a scholarship for a selected woman recipient attending Diablo Valley

ed to attend this ceremony. Teams or individuals can purchase Luminaria bags to decorate and are then lit in this ceremony. You can go to the website to learn how to purchase these bags. You can also become a Donor of Hope by giving a taxdeductable donation of $100 and be recognized with a special gold Luminaria bag. There are so many different ways to participate and to join the fight to eradicate cancer in our lifetime. For information, visit www.relayforlife.org/claytonca or www.facebook.com/RFLClaytonCA

Clayton Relay for Life Fundraising Events May 28 Technique Tuesday The technique is Tuesday, but the class is Thursday. Card making class taught by Michele Pryor, independent consultant for “Close to My Heart” crafts. 6 – 8 p.m. St. John’s Episcopal Parish, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. $30. Contact Lorraine at lorraine.henney@comcast.net.

May 30 Baking for a Cure

Club News The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club

detect cancer at its earliest, and help people with cancer today. Many businesses in town have already started sponsoring Relay by giving a percentage of their profits for a day to the ACS. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a sponsor please contact Nancy Salmon at fish@pacbell.net. At dusk on the eve of Aug. 15 the Luminaria Ceremony takes place at MDES. This is a solemn and touching ceremony to remember friends and family who have lost their battle to cancer or for those who continue their fight. Everyone is invit-

College and going on to higher education. The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club meets at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of the month, except July and August, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. Guests are welcome to attend meetings and social events to have fun and make new friendships while volunteering and helping the community. The theme this year is “The Joy is in the Journey.” For more information, call 6727947 or go to their website at claytonvalleywomansclub.org.

Creekside Artists Guild Join the Creekside Artists Guild for an afternoon of art and music as they celebrate their ninth anniversary, Sun. May 17, 4-7 p.m. at Diamond Terrace. The guest speaker is Jacquelyn Smith, president of Art Concepts, one of the top corporate art consulting firms in the county. Noted watercolorist, Qian Gao, will give a plein air demo. Diamond Terrace is at 6401 Center St., Clayton. For more information, contact Arlene Nielsen at creeksideartsfest@gmail.com or (925) 673-9777.

Bake sale. 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Starbucks, Clayton Station. Contact Michelle Treshler at mrtres94@aol.com or Gigi Pishny at gmpishny@mmm.com to donate baked goods.

June 2 Eat to Support Relay For Life Ed’s Mudville Grill will donate 10-20 percent of all sales to Relay For Life Clayton. Must present flier when order; download at relayforlife.org/claytonca. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Ed’s, 6200 Center St., Clayton. Contact Lorraine at lorraine.henney@comcast.net.

June 7 Brooklyn Heros for a Cure Canesa’s Brooklyn Heros will donate 20 percent of all sales to Relay For Life Clayton. Must present flier when order; download at relayforlife.org/claytonca. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Canesa’s, 6026 Main St., Clayton. Contact Lorraine at lorraine.henney@comcast.net.

Summer is coming, be ready! our pantry is stocked with staples to add to your fresh farmers market foods

925-672-2025 1028 Diablo St, Clayton Visit us on Facebook