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May 21, 2004
925.672.0500
Oakhurst hill continues to slide BY TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Property owners in the Oakhurst Geological Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) were notified last week that the ground in the large open space area between Kelok Way and Golden Eagle Place has slipped nearly an inch in the past 13 months. The GHAD Newsletter
JULIE PIERCE
MAYOR’S CORNER
Cities strike “deal” with governor Last month, thanks to many of you, the League of California Cities turned in petitions with over 1.1 million signatures to qualify our LOCAL (Leave Our Community Assets Local) initiative to protect and secure local funding against state raids without first getting your (voter) approval. Our measure that I wrote about in the February 23 issue of this paper [see the article at www.claytonpioneer.com] will be on the ballot this November. The efforts of our coalition got the attention of Governor Schwarzenegger. He knows all about people power! Thursday, May 13, the cities, counties, special districts and
See Mayor, page 14
outlined the findings of Berlogar Geotechnical Consultants, which suggest a “slow landslide movement northward...approximately 30 feet below the surface of Golden Eagle Place and involving a part of the slope.” According to City Engineer, Rick Angrisani, this movement appears to be at the base of a larger pre-existing landslide,
which was repaired by the developers during the grading of the site prior to the construction of the Oakhurst homes. As part of an ongoing geological monitoring of the area, Berlogar installed two inclinometers to measure ground movement; one is in the pavement on Kelok Way and the other is in the open space down the slope behind 8004 and 8008
Kelok Way and midway between Golden Eagle Place and the mid-slope bench. Measurements over the past 13 months indicated no noticeable movement in the inclinometer located in the pavement. However a 0.9 inch offset, approximately 55 feet below the surface, was noted in the inclinometer located in the slope area. Berlogar indicated
that slippage may be occurring in a 700 foot long, 300 foot wide area of the slope. According to the Berlogar report, it may be that only part of this area is moving, or this area could be part of a larger area that is moving. It is also possible that the area involved could enlarge and “encompass areas that are presently not moving.” and Berlogar recom-
Clayton’s secret gardens revealed By all accounts, the Clayton Historical Society’s 12th Annual Clayton Gardens Tour was a smashing success. Everything and everyone cooperated to make the two day event one to remember. Both days dawned bright and sunny. Blue skies and big puffy white clouds set the stage for the six garden delights. The tour began in Concord at the home of Bill and Jean Andrewsen with roses, roses and more roses. The magnificent terraces and pool at the Morgan Territory home of Roy and Melanie Alarcon (R&M Pool and Patio) were next. A mile or so down the road in Curry Canyon, is the lovely new/old (seven year old) Victorian home of Mike and Laurie Rose, where native toyon trees live in perfect harmony with classi-
cal topiaries. Then it was back into town to Glenn and Candy Fagerlin’s “Backyard Wildlife Habitat,” (so designated by the National Wildlife Federation) where a pond full of coy basked happily in all the attention. Just a short jog over a hill or two, the hillside garden, pool and spa belonging to Kevin and Judy Roberts, is a marvel of vision and engineering. The day was warm and the last garden provided a shady respite in Joe Swicegood’s half acre of redwood, cedar and sequoia trees on Mitchell Canyon Road. Over 700 toured the six gardens this year, according to Ticket Chairperson, Sally Turner, and many of them stopped at the home of Don
BY TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Elaine Shingleton was recently honored by the City of Concord for a lifetime of caring for others. Shingleton, an oncology nurse at Mt. Diablo Medical Center and a long time Clayton resident received the Lifelong Achievement Award from the City of Concord’s Human Relations Commission on April 17, recognizing nearly 30 years of volunteer service.
Shingleton, 56, is a youthful, no-nonsense grandmother with sparkling eyes and a quick smile. She is an active member of St. Bonaventure’s Catholic Church where she is involved in prison ministry. She currently volunteers her time with “Kids and the Power of Work” (KAPOW), a national organization which introduces students to career awareness through lessons taught by business volunteers in the classroom. She is president of the board of trustees of
See GHAD, page 14
Village Market plans to re-open
TAMARA STEINER/CLAYTON PIONEER
GARDEN GATE (above) leads to front of the Rose Victorian in Curry Canyon. At right, lazy dry creek in the front yard of the Andrewsen’s Concord home.
and Marie Schell for an oldfashioned Victorian garden party. Turner estimates that more than 120 volunteers contributed to the success of the event. She anticipates that net proceeds from this year’s tour will top $12,000. All the funds go to support the Clayton Museum.
Shingleton honored for her service to others
ELAINE SHINGLETON received the Lifetime Achievement Award from City of Concord’s Human Relations Commission
mends that the GHAD continue to monitor the area. The only way to stop the land from moving is to go in with structural reinforcements the cost of which is estimated to be between $8 and $12 million. Funding of the repairs would require the voters to approve a bond issue. In anticipation of possible
“Wingz to Fly,” a fledgling nonprofit which helps to prepare foster teens for self sufficiency when they turn 18 and no longer receive county support. “Everything I do, I see as a ministry,” said Shingleton from her office on the oncology floor at Mt. Diablo Hospital where she is the Director of Medical Patient Care Units. “I love my work, here. I’ve had several special encounters with patients that really deepened and touched my faith.” Her approach to nursing is holistic. She sees the whole patient—heart and soul. A few years ago, she engineered a wedding on the oncology floor. “The bride’s mother was here with just a very short time to live.” So, Shingleton, with the help of her staff, found an empty four-bed room, ordered a wedding cake and arranged for a limousine. Shortly after the wedding, the bride’s mother died. “She would never have made it to the wed-
ding day,” she said. Shingleton first volunteered to help people in pain in 1976 when, after a short period of training, she became a telephone counselor with Contact Care Center in Lafayette. “I talked with many interesting people,” she recalls, “and I knew that I was making a difference.”
“Everything I do, I see as a ministry,” Elaine Shingleton No stranger to troubled times, herself, in 1989 Shingleton lost her first grandchild in infancy from congenital heart problems. In 1994, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, hardly missing a day of work through her chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Then in 2001, after nursing him through
his own two year battle with cancer, Shingleton lost her beloved grandson, Christofer, 11. Coworkers from every department at Mt. Diablo Hospital donated countless vacation hours, making it possible for her to stay home to care for him. Through all the tough times, Shingleton has had the support of many. “God knows how we would have gotten through all that without community support,” she said. “Helping others is just a way to give back all that we’ve been given.” Shingleton was nominated for the award by Candy Negrete of Clayton, who writes “With all of her activities, what is significant is that she gives a personal touch. She is about people, not institutions.” This dedicated nurse sits on the Board of the American Cancer Society of East Contra Costa County, the California East Bay Oncology Nursing
Work to renovate the fire damaged Village Market may begin as soon as mid June reports owner Sam Sandhu. The store was badly damaged in an early morning fire on January 15. Vic Johnson of Greenspan Insurance Adjusters, estimates losses from the fire will be about $400,000. Johnson was on site last week completing the final estimates and plans to rebuild. When the architects have reviewed the plans, Sandhu will apply for the building permits. Plans for the store include a new deli and some outdoor seating. “We hope to work with the city to make some outdoor seating next to the park,” said Sandhu. The second story may be built out as apartments or as offices. Responding to reports that he might be moving to another location, Sandhu replied “No, not true. I love this town. I bought a house here. My daughter bought a house here. This is where I want to have my business.” According to Randy Champion, chief fire inspector for Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, the cause of the fire is still under investigation. Society and Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa County and serves on the Nursing Committee for the Bay Area Tumor Institute, all organizations dedicated to research and improvement of the quality of life for cancer patients. She and husband Art have been married for 29 years and live in Dana Hills. They have six grown children.
Pioneer Territory is growing Beginning with this issue, Pioneer Territory is expanding into Concord. We now mail to those carrier routes that border Clayton. We welcome all our new readers. We hope you enjoy the paper.
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 21, 2004
Around Town Hudkins to attend Leadership Forum
Time to tour, time to chat and time to take tea together at tables decorated in lovely garden colors to enjoy canapes, pastries and a glass of wine or a cup of tea. "What a nice finish," commented Nancy Haley of Clayton. "We love the Garden Tour. We come every year." Joe Swicegood's 42-year old peaceful forested backyard on Mitchell Canyon Road was a pleasant place for Bob and Eldora Hoyer to stop for a chat with Bob Cartan at the end of a lovely day of garden touring.
De LaSalle junior, Matt Hudkins of Clayton will attend the National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) on Medicine in Los Angeles in June. Hudkins will join 350 other high school students from around the country who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and an interest in a career in medicine.
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
ABOVE FROM LEFT, BOB HOYER, Bob Cartan and Eldora Hoyer enjoy the shade in the Swicegood garden. At right, Nancy Haley, Joann Pini and Sharon Swint finish the tour with tea at an old-fashioned Victorian Garden Party.
This year's Garden Tour had an added little "twist." Garden lovers gathered for an old fashioned Victorian Garden Party at the home of Don and Marie Schell following the tour. The "green thumbers," and those whose gardening skills begin with an "ooh" and end with an "aah,"all sat
Gregg Manning walks home with first place
Crean honored at UCD Katie K. Crean of Clayton has been accepted for membership in The National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS), a highly selective, non-profit honors organization. This UC Davis student will be honored during a campus ceremony this fall. NSCS recognizes first and second year undergraduate students who excel academically. The society was established in 1994 on the principle that with scholarship comes a responsibility to develop leadership and a duty to perform service. “NSCS provides the
Gregg Manning, 62, took first place in the age division 6069 in the Contra Costa County Library Fun Run/Walk on April 25. The event started at the main library in Pleasant Hill and ran a course along the streets and trails around the area.Manning finished the 5K walk (3.2 miles) in 39 minutes. Over 400 runners and walkers have raised about $15,000 for the library system, and the money is still coming in, reports Arlene Nielsen of the Clayton library. Clayton made quite a smart showing in the event, winning prizes for having the most volunteers and the most entries in the event. The oldest entry and the youngest entry were both from Clayton, and the town had the largest group of children entered. "The only prize we didn't win was the 'most coordinated in dress,'" reported Manning, with a chuckle.
Clayton Resident THE LYNNE FRENCH TEAM From left Julie Clairmont, Heather Gray, Sharon Sundin, Angelique Stone, Lynne and Danny French, Ruth Reed, and Julie Dunn.
Rentals C oming S oon!
In addition to visits to cutting-edge medical schools and clinical facilities, Hudkins will have the opportunity to hear from and interact with leaders in the medical field. Students have up-close and personal contact with physicians, surgeons, researchers, scientists and medical educators as they go behind the scenes to view these professionals at work. NYLF is a non-profit educational organization that brings various professions to life, empowering young people to make informed career choices.
6200 Center Street, Suite E Clayton, CA 94517
Lynne@LynneFrench.com
opportunity for students, like Katie, to be recognized for their outstanding academic accomplishments early in their college experience,” said Steve Loflin, NSCS Executive Director.
“2003 Realtor Of The Year!” East B ay B usiness T imes
(925) 672-8787
Windmill Canyon Area 404 Hummingbird Place 3 bedroom 2 bath updated single story with views. $1,895 per month
3014 Windmill Canyon 3 bedroom 2.5 bath with private flat lot, RV parking. $1,995 per month
Clayton border
Clayton border
Almost an acre with panoramic view! Zoned for horses. $629,980
Single Story 3 bedroom 2 baths, remodeled kitchen
Clayton border
Clayton border
3 bedrooms 2 bath with pool
$469,980 Clayton border
$439,980 Single Story 3 bedroom 2 bath totally remodeled in and out $549,980
Single Story updated
$459,980
Walnut Creek - Private Tranquil setting. This beautiful updated home has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths with over 2,000 sq. ft. Recently updated with hardwood flooring, remodeled kitchen, carpeting, Anderson French slider, recessed lighting, fresh paint and texturing throughout and downstairs bathroom remodeled. Outside you will find new front landscaping, patios and driveway. $769,980
Diablo Ridge @ Oakhurst Country Club This contemporary style duet has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths with an inviting master suite. Living room and family room share two way fireplace. Gourmet kitchen and indoor laundry room. Close to community pool/spa, shops, parks, schools and trails. $429,980
Oakhurst - This 5 bedroom plus bonus room with 3 full baths, 2 bedrooms on main floor, over 2,800 sq ft of living space. Upgrades galore, hand-carved hickory flooring, built in entertainment center with surround sound wiring and speakers, newer Victorian fireplace mantel with granite around the fireplace. Outside you will find RV parking, a raised deck with Diplomat Spa. $769,980
Clayton Regency - This spacious 3 bedroom, 2 full bath is updated throughout, large living room and dining room, gourmet kitchen with breakfast bar and indoor laundry room. Low maintenance landscaping with front porch and backyard has redwood deck with cover and a storage shed. Beautiful views of rolling hills. $139,980
Clayton - 41+ acres, 3 possible building sites. Coming from Clayton, this property is on the left, one mile before Deer Valley. Lot has wonderful views of the surrounding hillsides. $499,980
May 21, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
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PERENNIAL GARDEN DESIGNS and Consultations, by Nicole Hackett, aka Garden Girl. Plant the right perennials in all the right places. Add curb appeal and interest. Together, we can create a magazine beautiful garden. Call or e-mail for price or to schedule appointment. GardenGirl94517@aol.com, (925) 408-7792, voicemail
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EASLEY ESTATES ranch home, newly remodled, 4 bd/2.5 ba on 1/3 acre, fenced pool, private yard end of court. 2-car garage, all appliances, gardener and pool service included. $2600/mo plus deposit. No smoking or pets. Annual lease. Available 6/15. (925) 381-9490.
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HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance.
New group forms to raise awareness of Mt. Diablo Creek The group came to together in response to the City of Concord’s proposed update to the General Plan, which would affect the eight miles of creek that run through the Concord Naval Weapons Station. If this undeveloped land is made available for civilian use in 2005, Friends of Diablo Creek want to make sure that any development is “creek friendly, and that there are provisions for wildlife corridors. There are two opportunities for the public to learn about Friends of Diablo Creek. On Sunday, May 23 at 12 noon, all
are invited to a picnic, ice cream social and hike with the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association. Hikers are asked to bring a bag lunch and meet at the Mitchell Canyon Staging Area at the south end of Mitchell Canyon Road. On Thursday, May 27, the group will meet at 7 p.m. at the Clayton Community Library for a photographic presentation by John Keibel, of the plants and animals at the Concord Naval Weapons Station. For more information on Friends of Mt. Diablo Creek call Mary Malko at 925-689-8225.
LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.
More Around Town . . . Rotary hosts Russian baker's delegation Clayton resident and Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise Rotarian Bob Deiss and his wife Karen recently shared their home with two Russian bakers as part of the Productivity Enhancement Program (PEP) in conjunction with the Center for
Novgorod and Vladimir Mikhaylov from Labinsk spent one week with the Deiss's and two weeks in homes of other Bay Area Rotarians during the three-week program. During their stay, the Russians had opportunities to visit over 25
From left, Bob Deiss, Sergey Sula, Vladimir Mikhaylov and Karen Deiss
Citizens Initiatives. CSI is a non-profit organization that has brought 4,000 Russian business people to the United States to study and learn about American management and production techniques. Sergey Sula from Nizhny,
local bakeries and food-related businesses to learn about American bakery products, baking techniques and business management. Bob and Karen Deiss enjoyed the experience of opening their home to Sergey and
A J Landscaping AAA Travel Abbey Carpets ACME Auto Repair Aegis Senior Living Aircloud Wireless Internet Alice's Montessori Alise Interior Apronstrings Pet Sitting Bill Walcutt, Prudential Realty Blimpie Burkin Electric Castus Low Carb Superstore Cathie's Creations Central Self Storage Christina Mason, DDS Cindy's Curtains Clayton Fitness and Tanning Clayton Flowers Clayton Hair Works Clayton Valley Bowl Computers USA ComUnity Lending Concord Feed Contra Costa County Fair Crossroads Theatre Curves Dana Hill Care Home Diablo Ford Diamond Terrace Doug Van Wyck, State Farm Insurance East County Glass Fleury's Carpets Garrido Insurance George Vujnovich Better Homes Realty Graham Family Photo Hair by Jim Hair Systems HomEquity J. Richard Call, Mortgage Broker Jim Hudak, Brainstorm Records Kidfest Kim Morucci, Kropa Realty La Veranda Restaurant Linguini's Lisa Truesdell, State Farm Insurance Lynne French, Caldwell Banker Mavericks Mazzei Auto Mike's Auto Body Mode Nouveau Monte Vista Vet Mureleen Benton, American Express Network Service Center Nu Image Painting Ouimet Funeral Home Patty Flannery, Coldwell Banker Permanent Solutions Petar Guest Home Pete Laurence, Better Homes Realty Peter Morrison, Magician Pro Home Systems Pro Tech Heating and Air Conditioning Regina's Pet Grooming Rocco's Pizza Sherie Fico, Chase Smith Bernal Roofing Smith Trim St. John's Episcopal Church State Farm-Hamid Asemi Straight Line Imports Tammy Cerruti Gift Baskets The Fox and the Fiddle The Maids The Marble Shop Tipperary Construction Tom Legault, Kropa Realty Toys, Games and More Van-Fleet-Bronson, Remax Real Estate Veterans of Foreign Wars Zandonella's Restaurant
HAIR STYLISTS/MGR (New Fantastic Sams Salon). Cuts, color, perms, free education, flex hours, fun atmosphere. Base plus commission. Great Concord location. Call Aaron, 925-899-8687
Member of the California Newspaper Publishers Assoc.
Friends of Mt. Diablo Creek is a new community group formed to raise awareness of Mt. Diablo Creek and its watershed. Its main goal is to focus on education through a variety of programs that involve cleanup days, school garden and art contests and other learning activities. Since Mt. Diablo Creek flows through the city of Clayton, the group hopes to attract community members who are concerned about the preservation and restoration of the creek’s habitats and natural resources.
Clayton Pioneer Directory of Advertisers
Vladimir even though the language was a challenge. They solicited help from friends who spoke Russian and were able to learn much about the Russian landscape, government and economy. The Deiss’ have always pursued an interest in world affairs and taught their children to do the same. "The whole experience has enriched our lives," says Bob. Owen Murray is a member of the local Rotary Club and brought the idea of the Russian delegationalong with Rotarian Rich Bailey to the Clayton Valley Club about seven years ago. Bailey has been instrumental in coordinating host families and the details of the work study program. Murray has personally hosted 22 Russian bakers at his home over the years and has spent time in Russia visiting and studying. He is passionate about the program and believes that it is most effective in establishing good will between Russian and the United States. "I've seen the results first hand," he says.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” You can also e-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com
930-8523 671-2708 686-9901 685-8495 692-5838 260-4119 825-4364 672-7701 798-7621 686-3800 673-9531 672-1519 288-1429 672-6442 685-2222 672-1559 672-9395 672-2010 682-4664 672-2440 689-4631 672-9989 672-5363 825-9530 779-7916 944-0597 603-7555 672-8814 432-9717 524-5100 672-2300 432-1433 676-1010 673-2170 672-4433 680-1333 673-0300 686-0885 673-9737 937-2300 673-7293 671-3287 437-1650 524-0011 672-6868 686-4747 672-8787 602-5600 757-5600 689-2739 693-0016 672-1100 685-4523 672-5009 672-1777 682-4242 210-7480 672-8990 672-2841 939-7920 877-624-4264 937-3300 673-3776 672-8270 947-6105 256-4120 216-6461 673-3900 672-8855 672-6622 335-9801 672-6333 672-1333 798-6243 439-6910 216-2679 937-8181 673-8634 672-4333 673-9015 432-1700
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Clayton Pioneer
GEORGE VUJNOVICH, Broker 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517
Tel: (925) 672-4433 Fax: (925) 672-4424
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
georgevujnovich.com Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty
ADDRESS
264 Mountaire Circle 7 Atchinson Stage Road 31 Atchinson Stage Road 5187 Keller Ridge Drive 4103 Coyote Circle 567 Mt. Olivet Place 136 Joscolo View 615 Julpun Loop 3064 Windmill Canyon 534 Mt. Dell Drive 104 La Encinal Court
PRICE
$
695,000 638,500 610,000 710,000 395,000 680,000 725,000 520,000 579,000 497,000 750,000
SALE DATE
05/10/04 05/09/04 05/07/04 05/06/04 05/06/04 05/04/04 05/03/04 04/30/04 04/30/04 04/30/04 04/29/04
SF
2,566 1,864 1,926 2,237 1,026 2,078 2,313 1,904 1,816 1,926 2,857
BED/BATH
5/3 4/2 4/2 4/2 2/2 4/2 4/2.5 3/2.5 3/2 4/2.5 5/3
ADDRESS
387 Blue Oak Lane 6040 High Street 353 Blue Oak Lane 112 Mt. Whitney Way 3507 Coyote Circle $ 1033 Pebble Beach Drive 401 Wawona Lane 1221 Buckeye Terrace 137 Mountaire Parkway 530 Mt. Dell Drive 301 Coal Mine Court
PRICE
SALE DATE
895,000 535,000 799,000 635,000 419,000 876,000 750,000 495,000 550,000 425,000 527,000
04/29/04 04/28/04 04/28/04 04/27/04 04/23/04 04/22/04 04/22/04 04/21/04 04/20/04 04/19/04 04/16/04
SF
3,454 1,920 3,373 2,135 1,595 2,873 2,505 1,639 2,177 1,423 1,597
BED/BATH
5/3.5 2/1.5 4/3.5 4/2 3/2.5 2/2.5 4/2 3/2.5 4/2.5 3/2 2/2
ADDRESS
216 Falcon Place 1816 Yolanda Circle 606 Golden Eagle Place 1477 Indianhead Circle 105 Forest Hill Drive 4705 Keller Ridge Dr. 8003 Kelok Way 106 El Portal Place 33 Westbrook Court 53 El Portal Drive 1267 Shell Circle
All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed
PRICE
$
630,000 610,000 590,000 480,000 860,000 382,000 740,000 716,000 527,000 676,000 413,000
SALE DATE
04/16/04 04/15/04 04/15/04 04/14/04 04/12/04 04/12/04 04/11/04 04/09/04 04/07/04 04/06/04 04/05/04
SF
2,053 1,780 1,816 1,709 3,335 1,026 2,894 2,428 1,933 2,857 1,145
BED/BATH
3/2 3/2.5 3/2 3/3 4/2.5 2/2 5/3 4/2.5 4/2 5/2.5 2/2
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 21, 2004
The Van Fleet-B Bronson
Family
Personal Service Make s the D ifference Featured H ome
J o s i e V a n F l e e t -B Bronson For superior service and a successful real estate transaction in Clayton or surrounding communities, call Josie, a 20-year Clayton resident and area specialist — The Van Fleet-Bronson Team. Specializing in: Property Management Loans/Refinancing Real Estate Sales - Residential and Investment 2003/2004 Better Business Honor Roll Ranked #56 worldwide of 90,000 RE/MAX Realtors 2004 Heritage Registry of Who’s Who Member, Concord Chamber of Commerce Member, Oakhurst Country Club RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals
1536 Kirker Pass Road, Suite D Clayton, CA 94517
925-672-4333
Two homes on one lot with spectacular views of Mt. Diablo! This property has everything. Main house features 4 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths, 2,222 sq. ft. of living space, eat in kitchen, living room, family room, dining area, beautiful brick fireplace in family room with ceiling fan, open floor plan and large inside laundry. Sliding glass doors in master bedroom opens to a breathtaking back yard with fruit trees. The guest home features 762 sq. ft. of living space with 1 bedroom, large living room, 1 bath, new carpet, built in 1982 with permits. $875,000
Properties A vailable
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This one is a Clayton charmer with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and nearly 2,191 square feet of living space located in a quiet family neighborhood. Many features accent this lovely home including a spacious floor plan with formal living room, family room, both with their own fireplaces, formal dining area, eat in kitchen, converted garage as a bonus room (done with permits), inside laundry, fresh paint and a detached 2 car garage. This home is near great schools and has views of Mt. Diablo. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to own this special home! $610,000
We l ove r eferrals
Enjoy a wonderful dinner at The Fox and The Fiddle, downtown Clayton, when you refer a successful buyer or seller to Van Fleet-Bronson, RE/MAX Real Estate.
Mark your calendars! Come to our seller’s class and learn whether
“To Stage, or Not To Stage”
June 8, 7-9 p.m. Oakhurst Country Club
Homeowner says "sell it as is!" This 2 bedroom, 1 bath mobile home has 800 sq. ft. of living space, central heat, 2 car carport, newer redwood deck, additional laundry room, appliances are included, near community pool, and club house, easy freeway access! $19,000
Coming Soon
157 Kilburn Street 16711 Marsh Creek Road
Pending Properties
5476 Roundtree Place, K 3887 Concord Blvd. 797 Armstrong Way 2131 Jefferson Way 719 Eagle Court
Recent Concord Sales Address 1975 Bonifacio Street #6 1133 Meadow Lane #88 4888 Clayton Rd #7 1133 Meadow Lane #9 5450 Concord Blvd. D1 2055 Sierra Road UnitA 3815 Northwood Drive F 3055 Treat Blvd. #29 1420 Bel Air Drive #206 3641 Clayton Road #48 1555 Schenone Ct A 5333 Park Highland Blvd. #36 1540 Lexington Road 1310 Lexington Road 1437 Saint James Parkway 1321 San Jose Drive 1737 Sapling Court 3330 Alfonso Drive 2543 Montgomery 2077 Carmel Drive 3156 Ida Drive 3580 Cranbrook Way 1986 North 6th Street 2524 Prestwick Ave 1889 Granada Drive 2937 Glenside Drive 3384 Benton Street
Price 128,000 131,000 159,000 180,000 206,000 266,000 260,000 276,700 275,000 273,000 277,500 304,000 330,000 390,000 360,000 360,000 352,500 355,000 395,000 357,000 376,500 392,500 415,000 390,000 420,000 410,000 415,000
Sale Date 5/4/04 5/7/04 4/29/04 4/28/04 4/29/04 4/30/04 5/4/04 4/30/04 5/5/04 5/10/04 4/28/04 5/7/04 4/30/04 5/6/04 4/29/04 4/30/04 4/30/04 4/30/04 4/30/04 5/7/04 5/2/04 5/6/04 4/30/04 5/3/04 4/29/04 4/30/04 4/28/04
SF 432 722 741 759 794 962 1240 1053 940 1020 1093 1104 940 1024 1576 825 1288 1278 1103 1450 1108 1127 1404 1103 1132 1499 1285
Bed/Bath Studio/1 1/1 1/1 2/1 1/1 2/1 3/2 2/1 2/2 3/2 2/1 2/1 3/1 3/1 3/2 2/1 3/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 3/1 3/2 3/2 3/2 4/2
Address 2040 Esperanza Drive 5449 Anselmo Court 4260 Lancelot 4984 Hames Drive 2031 Fir Street 3072 The Alameda 934 Faned Way 1494 Duncan Drive 3872 Larkspur Drive 1553 Thorn Drive 3895 Village 4638 Adams Drive 1765 Glazier Drive 5352 Meadow Wood Place 5373 Meadow Wood Place 1790 Clinton Drive 1614 American Beauty Drive 4464 Pinon Court 1380 Water Lily Way 4717 Springwood Way 1830 Paul Lane 1170 Camino Solano 5180 Heritage Drive 5382 Aspenwood Court 1951 Holly Creek Place 5290 Homedale Drive 963 S Rosehedge Court
Price 399,950 435,000 410,000 460,000 459,000 455,000 485,000 475,000 470,000 505,000 470,000 505,000 495,000 517,000 540,000 545,000 555,000 559,950 600,000 610,000 605,000 667,000 765,000 850,000 831,000 851,500 926,500
Sale Date 4/29/04 4/30/04 4/29/04 5/4/04 5/5/04 4/29/04 4/30/04 5/5/04 5/7/04 5/4/04 5/7/04 5/7/04 5/5/04 5/7/04 5/7/04 4/29/04 4/28/04 5/11/04 5/5/04 4/29/04 5/6/04 4/29/04 4/28/04 5/5/04 4/30/04 5/4/04 5/11/04
SF 1152 1420 1284 1483 1621 1254 1519 1593 1793 1568 1818 1717 1712 1748 2003 2010 1917 2537 1934 1954 2162 2731 2981 3246 3584 3951
Bed/Bath 3/1 3/2 4/2 3/2 4/2 3/2 3/2 4/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 3/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 4/3 4/2 5/3 4/3 4/2 5/5 5/3 5/3 5/3
May 21, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 5
There’s no place like home Herb gardens spring to life
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
Herb gardens are functional and beautiful. Sage, rosemary and thyme are just a few of the ingredients that one will need for today's herb garden. Today, our herb gardens will have a focal point. They will be perfectly layered and sweetly accessorized. We no longer need to hide our herb garden with the tomatoes on the side of the house; let's be proud of our garden. Consider bordering the boundary of the herb garden. This gives you a starting and stopping point. Use any material that fits your style, such as moss rock, used brick or pavers. The choice is yours. Choose a sunny location for your herb garden. Work soil conditioner into the first six inches of the dirt. Use an organic soil conditioner rich in mushroom compost, redwood compost, fir bark, earthworm castings, bat guano and chicken manure. It would be a bonus if the conditioner contained beneficial mcorrhizal fungi and humic acid. This combination of ingredients brings life back to Clayton soil. After you have found your herb garden location and amended the soil, it’s time to think about your focal point. Statuary makes a lovely focal point. Consider a figure or an urn. This creates height in the garden. In the herb garden of today, a planted garden urn filled with Agastache Apricot Sunrise and surrounded with Golden Variegated Lemon Thyme is spectacular. Agastache reaches two feet by two feet and blooms dark-peach, salvia shaped flowers all summer long. The fragrance of the foliage is sweet and enchanting. This perennial is graceful and hummingbirds adore the nectar. Thyme, with green and yellow variegation, has lemon scented foliage. It's great used fresh or dry. This bloomer reaches eight inches and will spread down the side of the urn creating some classic, functional drama. Salvia Elegans, also known as pineapple sage, is an excellent, unique choice for an herb garden. This bright red bloomer reaches three feet tall and wide. Plant this perennial herb three feet to the right and the left of the urn for a spiking, colorful backdrop. The light green leaf has a delicate pineapple scent, and, is great in teas and salads. Rosemary Tucson Spires planted in between the pineapple sage and back two feet adds evergreen stability and some contrast to the bright red blooms of the sage. See how the layering works from the focal point and back.
Now, let's look at our focal point. Do we add a pathway for access, or do we surround with medium growing plants? Today, we are adding a pathway. Natural stone paths leading to a focal point make a design statement. The results are instant. Plant wooly thyme or chamomile in between each stone. Both plants tolerate some traffic. Toward the borders of the pathway, plant Golden Variegated Sage and Red Wonder Nasturtium.
mer and winter seasons, this perennial can reach 16 inches tall and spreads wider with age. If allowed to bloom, clusters of purple flowers appear early summer through fall. Divide to control size. Basil has come a long way. Try Siam Queen Basil, or Cinnamon Basil for a punch of flavor. Basil is tender. This plant is one you will need to replace every year. Protect this plant from snails. Cilantro is a must!
GOLDEN variegated sage
The golden sage is a perennial that reaches 18 inches tall and wide. Dark-green centers and golden-yellow edging makes this foliage plant a show stopper. Plant one sage to two Red Wonder Nasturtiums. The red wonder is a clumping form of the family. The bloom on the red wonder is a double red. That color combined with the Golden Variegated Sage is fabulous, and they make nice additions to salads and other dishes. Plant lavender behind the pathway border plants. English Lavender may reach three feet tall and wide and is extremely fragrant and traditionally beautiful. Lavender makes great teas, oils and even soaps. Use the blooms in simple flower arrangements. Put the long-blooming purple, stacked flowers on top of gray foliage. Cut back after bloom to control size. Leave three feet for the lavender to spread. If space is an issue, consider some of the dwarf English Lavender such as hidcote or munstead. An herb garden just isn't an herb garden without some culinary herbs. Greek oregano is an excellent, flavorful addition to your herb garden. Hardy in our sum-
Cut your plants often to prevent flowering. Once cilantro flowers, it's fol-
lowed by seed. This will complete the cycle of life for the herb and it may die back sooner. Cilantro is great in summer dishes like salads and marinades. Use organic fertilizers with your herb garden. Formula 49 is a year-round organic based granular fertilizer, mild enough for tender basil. If 100 per cent organic is your style, several are on the market. E.B. Stone makes a lovely fertilizer full of beneficial mycorrhizal fungi and this product is granular, easy to apply and efficient. Use annuals to support your herb garden during fall and winter. Since most of our choices are perennial, our winter may be a little bare. Snap dragons and pansies are both edible and love the cooler weather. Buy plants like these in October, they will supplement your garden until spring warms up and all your perennial herbs come back to life. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her at with questions, comments or suggestions at GardenGirl94517@aol.com
BURKIN ELECTRIC Residential & Commercial
“Let Us Light Up Your Life”
James J. Burkin, Owner Phone: (925) 672-1519 Pager: (925) 340-9797 STATE CONTRACTORS LICENSE #631523
Alise Interiors
Make it your own!
A lise Interiors is now offering custom furniture for every room in your home
G G G G
Custom made to your specifications Styles and fabrics to fit your lifestyle Less expensive than retail stores Hunter Douglas products-draperies, valances and bedding, custom framing and mirrors
Your hometown resource Call for a complimentary consultation
672-7701
Smith Trim
Weekend and evening appointments available
Crown/Baseboard Doors/Windows Wainscoting Decks/Cupolas Interior & Exterior Trim Custom trim
Don Smith Phone: 925-673-3900 Cell: 510-710-5747 www.smithtrim.com License No. 820457
Equity Only Loans 1st, 2nd or 3rd Mortgages
J. Richard Call, Broker
Mortgage Company of California
The lender with a (925) 937-2300
Remodeling or buying new? We can make your home look beautiful Abbey Carpets/Contra Costa Floors Use our Abbey Credit Plan and get six months to pay --
INTEREST FREE!
C ARPET V INYL H ARDWOOD C ERAMIC T ILE L AMINATE W INDOW FASHIONS Visit our showroom M-F 9-5; Sat. 10-4 Commercial. Residential.
Expert installation. Free in-home consultation
1170 Burnett Ave. Ste. E Concord
(925) 686-9901
Celebrating our 9th year of service
Since 1963 Clayton resident - 30 years
Kim Morucci Ideal Walnut Creek Location on the Lafayette Border Beautiful three bedroom, two bath home with detached office. Spacious deck and swimming pool. All on a huge lot with mature landscaping and towering trees $674,000
Coming Soon Concord/Clayton border. 2 bedroom, 1 1/4 bath, lower end unit condo.Ideal location. Immaculate. Call for details. Kim Morucci is a Clayton resident specializing in Clayton properties and neighboring communities. Thinking of buying or selling? Call Kim for professional and dedicated service.
925.437.1650 cell
925.672.3135 direct
Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 21, 2004
There’s no place like home What to do when homes are in short supply Finding a home to buy when there's not many to choose from is frustrating, to say the least; but you can increase your odds of buying sooner rather than later. First, get your finances in order. Then when the right property comes along you can make a strong offer. When home listings are low and the demand for homes is high, buyers often find themselves competing for housing. Preapproved buyers have a leg up on the competition. Find an energetic, trustworthy agent who specializes in the area where you want to buy. Sometimes listings sell before they hit the open market. An out-of-area agent probably won't hear about new listings when they become available. You should work with someone who'll call you about a new listing before the public hears about them. Carefully analyze what you need and want in a home.
Prioritize the list and put the essential features at the top. Buying a home requires making compromises. It's unrealistic to expect to find all the features you desire in one property. Usually buyers need to see some of the local housing stock in order to know
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ESTATE
how to prioritize their housing wants and needs. Make sure you let the agent know exactly what you need in your home. If your priorities change, let your agent know. From time-totime you should reconsider
listings that you liked but discarded because they didn't match your criteria. Such a listing might be worthy of another look if your priorities have changed since you last viewed the property. For example, you might have initially wanted a home that you didn't need to renovate. After looking for a while with no success, you might decide to consider a home that only needs a cosmetic redo. In this case, it might be worth reconsidering a cosmetic fixerupper that you passed on initially. Of course, you need to make sure it's still on the market. Ask your agent to find any expired listings that might work for you. An expired listing is one that didn't sell during the listing period. Sometimes expired listings are re-listed, but often sellers decide to take a break from marketing. This is particularly the case over the holiday season or during the winter
months. Although an expired listing is no longer actively marketed, it may still be for sale. A "move up" Clayton couple had difficulty finding a home that suited their needs. I remembered an expired listing that had the features these buyers wanted and contacted the listing agent. The sellers were getting their home ready to go back on the market. They were happy to show it a little early. The home was a good match, and the buyers bought it. Finding that special home becomes easier if you are flexible in your search criteria. For example, buyers open to several architectural styles find more options available to them. By accepting several neighborhoods, more listings become available. Buyers willing to make cosmetic improvements increase their odds of finding a home. Be diligent and look at every listing that might work
for you. Don't simply look at the outside, because the inside may surprise you. Consider foregoing the perfect home this time around. Make sure you buy a good home that will be easy to resell.
Lynne French is a realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and a Clayton resident. For any real estate needs or questions contact Lynne at (925) 672-8787 or e-mail her at lynne@lynnefrench.com.
PATTY FLANNERY Clayton Resident Since 1979
Realtor Associate International President’s Circle
Voice Mail: 925-210-7480 Residence: 925-672-0541 Notary Public
Be with the best!
California, Contra Costa County
by appointment only
granyflany@hotmail.com
Good time to repair AC leaks
SHERI DICKSON
HOME WORK
Are you asking yourself "Why is my air conditioner not cooling my home?" This time every year, we begin to receive telephone calls asking if we can come out and recharge systems. Many customers believe that air conditioners need recharging every year. In fact, completely sealed systems use that refrigerant for the life of the equipment. If a system develops a leak, then the lost refrigerant needs replenishing and any leak needs repairing. Refrigerant does not wear out. If your system is low on refrigerant, there is definitely a problem because the lost refrigerant evaporated into the atmosphere. What does the technician need to do when he comes out? The refrigerant charge (the amount of refrigerant) needs checking to see if it meets the charge specifications. Filters and dampers register airflow and the general operation needs to be confirmed in order to check charge. Once charge is confirmed to be low, the exploration process goes into effect: look for obvious oil leaks; do a
leak test using electronic leak detector or an equivalent method; and decide on repairs vs. replacement. It is in the best interest of the equipment and the customer to complete the repairs. If the cost is too high, the cost-effective plan is to replace the equipment. It is a law that once you find a leak, repair is necessary or you must remove any remaining refrigerant from the system because of EPA regulations. Suggestions for preventing leaks If you have pets keep them away from the outdoor equip-
THE
SIGN OF A PROFESSIONA L
z z
Let our team be your team
Bill and Pam Walcutt Office: (925) 686-3800 Bill’s direct: (925) 437-5535 Pam’s direct: (925) 437-5570 bill.walcutt@prurealty.com
Complete interior and exterior painting Drywall repair and texturing Custom color consulting Special care taken to protect all furnishings
Bob and Sheri Dickson, Owners
925-673-3776
Celebrating 25 years in business family owned and operated
License #705148
Increase the energy efficiency of your home while improving the look and value Free
We also feature shower doors and mirrored wardrobe doors
$500 off
whole house package minimum 6 windows & patio door Not good with any other offer (expires 6/4/2004)
We will not be undersold!
prurealty.com/billwalcutt
Financing available ask for details
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$200 off regular pricing on any complete INTERIOR PAINTING
Free Estimates Michael O. Reilly - Clayton Resident Call us - 925-672-1777 License # 572337 B, C-33
Pro-Tech Heating and Air Conditioning
Vinyl Wood Aluminum. Fiberglass
Painting & Decorating
z
If you have a question or concerns, you may write to me at: sheridickson@protechheating.com. Sheri Dickinson, Coowner of Pro-Tech Heating and Air Conditioning
in home estimate
Nu Image z
ment. One common cause for premature leaks in outdoor condensing units is due to male dogs urinating on the outdoor coil and rotting it out. Poor installation is another reason as is poor solder joints and/or improper flares or loose fittings. Have a reputable contractor, licensed, insured and bonded install your system. Confirm that the heating and air conditioning contractor has a current contractor's license and it includes being "Home Improvement Certified." Preventative maintenance is very important to help prevent these types of problems.
Offer expires 6/4/04
W S
EAST COUNTY GLASS & WINDOWS INC. Complete Glass Service
www.ecglass.com 1-800-664-GLAS (4527)
Lic.#494305
May 21, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 7
There’s no place like home Taking the guesswork out of kitchen/bath remodeling
Est.1972
Smith & Bernal
Roofing Reroofs z Repairs z Maintenance Composition z Wood shake z Tar and gravel z Tile Gutters z Inspections z Ventilation
EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIRS Same day response
(925) 216-6461 Free estimates
Clayton resident
Lic. Number 727021
Desirable Nor thgate/ Walnut Creek Area This Northgate area 4 bedroom is a 2,378 square foot, singlestory on a 10,000 square foot lot! Features an updated gourmet kitchen with corian counters, washed maple cabinets and two convection ovens. Dual4-bedroom 2,378 sq. ft. pane windows, four sliders to three patio areas, formal dining and family tooms and a stepdown living room with vaulted ceilings. Near highly rated Valle Verde Elementary, Foothill Middle and Northgate high schools. Close to park, trails, library, shopping and golf.
Only $785,000. See Pete’s VIRTUAL TOUR available on MLS.
PETE LAURENCE Broker-Owner, Realtor, GRI Office: (925) 939-7920 Fax: (925) 939-1939 VM 24 hr: (925) 940-2777 1511 Treat Blvd. #100. Walnut Creek, CA 94598
BARBARA GUTRIDGE HOME WORK If you are considering a kitchen or bath remodel, you're probably asking, "What surface will I use on my new bathroom counter top?" or "What product is available to replace my shower walls?" The good news is that choices for bathroom surfaces are as numerous as Imelda Marcos' shoes. The bad news is that the choices for bathroom surfaces are as numerous as Imelda Marcos' shoes. To make your decision you'll need to know a little about each product without spending the next millennium in research. So I'll list a few of the popular choices available today. Stay away from the new obscure products; let someone else field-test them in their home.
Tile has grout. Enough said. It's the most difficult to clean, and joints are not mold/mildew resistant. If tile is the look you want, take comfort in knowing that it has good heat resistance. Another high maintenance product is stainless steel. Sinks have a seam around them, and it has poor impact resistance. The same products above are available for the bath. But here's where cast polymer excels. Formulated and designed specifically for the bathroom, cast polymer products are cultured, synthetic, marble, onyx and granite. Years
Let's start with the kitchen. In generic terms, you can choose cast polymer, solid surface, natural stone, engineered stone, tile, concrete, laminate, stainless steel and wood/butcher block. If the cast polymer product is gel-coated, it's a poor choice for the kitchen. It will scratch easily under kitchen wear. Solid surface cast acrylic products (Corian™ and others) are good kitchen choices. They offer several colors, have integral sinks (no seams to clean), unlimited shapes and edge treatments, and are stain, heat and impact resistant. Seams are invisible. They require professional installation to activate the warranty. Natural and engineered stone products are hard-surface products that are beautiful to look at, but natural stone requires some maintenance to keep sealed. Both have visible seams that can get worse with age. Integral sinks are not available, so you need a grout line to clean right where the most dirt collects.
One of the fastest ways to give a room a make over, apart from painting or wallpapering, is to rearrange furniture. By simply switching around your sofa, loveseat and entertain-
contact
Ted Sudderth ComUnity Lending
Your local loan experts offering you quality service and low competitive rates
Clayton residents residents Clayton Ted Sudderth, Sudderth, Ted Doris Ward Ward & & Doris Casey. Casey.
(925) 672-5363
6200 Center St., #230, Clayton DOC# 415-0005
Licensed by the Department of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act.
STRAIGHT LINE IMPORTS Fabrication and Installation Installation of: Countertops * Bar/ Vanity Tops Bath/ Shower Enclosures * Fireplace
Full Service Remodeling Available Specializing In Kitchen & Baths Lic # 789325
FREE ESTIMATES
925.335.9801 www.straightineimports.com
LOCAL SHOWROOM
GRANITE * MARBLE LIMESTONE * TRAVERTINE References Available Upon Request!
“Specializing in Servicing Clayton”
Barbara Gutridge is co-owner of The Marble Shop. Reach her at 439-6910 with questions or com-
ments.
Move furniture for new look
Purchase or Refinance Established 1980
of research and testing go into making it your best value. Sink and countertop is one piece construction; colors and custom shapes are unlimited. It's nonporous, stain and impact resistant. And, there's no grout to clean. Shower pans and whirlpool bathtubs are made of the same material as the shower walls and counter top. And here's the bottom line: it's more economical than all the products above.
984 Howe Road * Martinez Locally Owned & Operated!
at Fleury’s
ment center, you'll find the room can take on a completely new look. However, unless your family comes fully equipped with several moving professionals, moving furniture can be a backbreaking job. So how do you revamp your room without ending up in the chiropractor's office? Here are some ways to achieve success without the pain. Sketch it out. Professional decorators often make quick outline sketches of their ideas on paper. They also do some of their work on graph paper, which makes it easy to map out the square footage of a room and then compare it in relation to the squares of the graph paper. Each square on the paper represents one foot. For example, a two-foot-bytwo-foot overstuffed chair on the graph paper would be two blocks wide by two blocks high. Label the shapes for what item of furniture or decorative item (like a rug) each is representing. Go high tech. Browse through the software aisle of your local computer store or office supply store and you should find several programs geared toward interior and exterior design. With these programs, you enter in the measurements of your room and furniture and then you can move around each item on the screen until you're happy with the placement. Some of these programs also offer a 3-D virtual walk-through tour, where you can get a "humans' eye view" of just what the room looks like. Comparison shop. If you live in a housing development, many of the houses are the same model. See what your neighbors have done with the room you're looking to change, so you can get an idea of what works and what doesn't. Smooth sailing. If you're a hands-on type of person and believe moving around the actual furniture is the only way to get an accurate view of your new design plan, invest in tools that will make the job easier. New "as seen on TV" disks that are coated with ultra-slippery silicon can be placed under your furniture legs, making it easy to slide around cumbersome items. Plus, the disks won't snag on your carpet, preventing more headaches.
Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 21, 2004
There’s no place like home Are biweekly mortgage payments right for you? If you are one of the many American homeowners who have recently refinanced their mortgages and are in the fortunate position of having more expendable cash each month, you may be considering whether or not you should pay off your mortgage early. One common way to accelerate your payment cycle is to change it from monthly to biweekly. However, as with most financial decisions, you should first review the advantages and disadvantages of this strategy and consider your alternatives. Biweekly Mortgage Plan Setting up a biweekly mortgage payment plan can save you thousands of dollars and may ultimately cut more than six years off the life of your 30-year fixed mortgage loan. By dividing your monthly payments in half and paying that amount every other week, you would make 26 payments per year, or the equivalent of 13 full mortgage payments, rather than 12 full payments on a monthly schedule. This extra payment will cost you more each year, but by applying these payments to your principal you will essentially reduce the number of years you will owe on your mortgage and reduce your interest. For example, let's say you owe $200,000 on your 30-year fixed mortgage at a 7% interest rate. By implementing a biweekly mortgage payment plan, you would save more than $65,000 dollars in interest. If your mortgage were $400,000, you would save roughly $131,000. In addition, by paying an extra monthly payment per year, you would shave six years off your mortgage loan. Paying off your mortgage early also has an immeasurable non-financial benefit-peace-of-mind. Nobody enjoys the burden and persistent financial obligation of mortgage payments. Paying off your mortgage early would leave you with a great feeling of accomplishment and security. This can be an even bigger weight off your shoulders if you are close to retirement. Accelerated Mortgage Payment Plan An easy alternative to setting up a biweekly plan is to increase the amount of your monthly payments. For example, you can take one additional monthly payment, divide it by 12, and slightly increase each of your current monthly payments. If your mortgage is $1,000 per month, you could
simply pay $1,083.33 per month instead. This would add up to an extra monthly payment each year. It also gives you the freedom to
MURELEEN BENTON FINANCIAL SENSE return back to your regular payment schedule, if you lose your job or become ill. If you set up your own accelerated payment plan, be sure to instruct your bank to apply these payments to the principal of your loan. Otherwise, they could consider the payment an early payment and apply it to the inter-
est of the loan. You also should check with your bank or loan officer to confirm that there are no prepayment penalties associated with your loan. Consider Investing If you have the cash flow to pay off your mortgage early, you should first consider other investment strategies. Make sure you are sufficiently funding other important financial goals, such as your retirement savings accounts or your child's college funds. Let's say you earmarked an additional $1,000 a year for 24 years into a well-diversified mutual fund, 529 College Savings Plan or your 401(k) Plan At a 7.5 percent growth rate, your $24,000 investment would be worth $67,000. This would be a significant amount of money toward your retirement or college savings plan. (This illustration is hypothetical and is not meant to represent any specific investment or to imply any guaranteed rate of return.) Don't Forget Emergency Savings
Before you commit to paying off your mortgage early, make sure you also have significant savings stashed away in a money market account for a rainy day or an unexpected emergency. If prepaying your mortgage means you are diverting funds away from or forgetting to contribute to an emergency savings plan, you will be putting your financial security at risk. It is recommended that most financial plans include emergency cash savings of at least three to six months' worth of expenses. Pay off High-Interest Debt First Do not consider prepaying your mortgage if you are in debt. A good rule of thumb is to pay off all your debt first, starting with the highest interest rate. Consider taking out a home equity line of credit (HELOC) to pay off your high-interest-rate debt at lower rates. Interest rates on HELOCs are generally taxdeductible. Get Financial Advice When considering paying off your mortgage early, you
DO YOU DREAM ABOUT OWNING A HOME? can make your dreams come true with
also should note that you would lose some tax benefits that mortgages provide. Seek professional help from a qualified financial advisor to create or update your comprehensive financial plan and help
you decide if paying off your mortgage early is right for you. Mureleen Benton is a certified financial planner. Call her with questions or comments at 685-4523.
Mode Nouveau Decorating Do you need help making your home beautiful? No job too small! Consulting, staging homes, wallpapering, stripping, painting and accessorizing "I can even help you choose furniture"
Patricia Harrison
925.693.0016
Licensed. Bonded.
18 years experience in model homes, residential and commercial Clayton resident
LANDSCAPING We are licensed, bonded and fully insured Lic. #797271-C27
Yard Maintenance New Lawns French Drains Irrigation Systems and more Does your landscaper have a Clayton business license?
I do! Call now for a FREE ESTIMATE
(925) 930-8523 www.ajlandscape.com
Fixed or adjustable rate mortgages First-time homebuyer programs No-doc programs No-to-low down payment programs Home equity financing Call Sherrie Fico at Chase today
LOOKING FOR A CONTRACTOR
925-980-4046 or 925-672-6951
Tom A. Legault, Broker “Award Winning Services”
YOU CAN TRUST TO DO QUALITY WORK? YOU’VE FOUND US! Additions Windows/Doors Remodeling Crown Molding Decks Siding Overhangs Trim license# 783799, B, HIC
1399 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Ste. 26, Walnut Creek
(925) 937-8181
free estimates Recommended by Realtor of the Year, Lynne French
$50 of f
Great Location
on jobs of $500 or more
1137 Keith Dr., Concord
Expires 6/04/04 One Coupon per job
Tipperary Construction, Inc. General Contractor Clayton resident
Declan Woods Noel O’ Meara 925. 216-2679 925. 518-0821 fax:672-7055
Three bedroom, two bath rancher with large expanded master bedroom. Large living room, family room and game room. Beautiful yard with pool, spa, covered patio and gazebo. $699,000
A beautiful bathroom begins with
cultured marble, granite & onyx
N ow Open Every unit individually alarmed Computerized gate access Professional on-site management Complete moving and packing supply store New climate control space
Let us help you get started
Free truck use with move-in (some restrictions apply)
Call us today for a FREE no obligation telephone quote and consultation. We can also help you create a budget plan.
Special for Clayton residents: residents: Free lock with move-in
The Marble Shop Manufacturing & Installing Affordable Beauty Since 1976
925. 439. 6910 180 Bliss Ave.., Pittsburg, www.themarbleshop.net
Never clean grout again Stock Wall Panels Installed starting at
$670 does not include tear-out, wall prep, plumbing or doors
M ON -S AT 9-6, S UNDAY 10-2 G ATE HOURS 7 AM TO 7 PM DAILY
$30 off prepay 3 months $60 off prepay 6 months Good on 10’ X 10” or larger units only Only one special per rental
(925) 685-2222
www.centralselfstorage.com
4901 Ygnacio Valley Road, Concord Major credit cards accepted
May 21, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 9
Summertime, the livin’ is easy and your best friend is HOT According to composer George Gershwin, Summertime means “the livin’ is easy, fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high.” This special season means we need to protect our companion animals from extreme heat.
BRENDA BARNETTE PICASSO
PAWS
AND
AND
CLAWS
Keep in mind that when it’s hot for you, it’s even hotter for them. Dogs and cats do not sweat through their skin. They cool themselves by panting or rapid breathing, which means animals must work hard to stay
cool. Too much heat can be extremely dangerous or even fatal. If your best friend has a shorter nose, like Persian cats and bulldogs, he is more susceptible to heatstroke than breeds with longer noses. If your dog or cat begins very rapid, noisy breathing, has trouble swallowing and looks very distressed, she could be having a heatstroke. Heatstroke is an emergency. Get the animal out of the heat. Apply cold, wet towels to the back of the head. Place cold packs wrapped in towels or plain wet towels between the back legs and on the belly. Cool off your furry friend and then take her to the vet immediately. The best plan is to keep your dog and cat protected from the summer heat. Make sure that your dog or cat has plenty of fresh water to drink. A bucket that holds a gallon or more of water will stay cool longer than water in a shallow pan. Some dogs consider ice cubes a treat, and you can add a few to the water bowl.
Dogs and cats do sweat a little through the pads of their feet. The cats I know don’t appreciate water added to any part of their body, but dogs often enjoy having cool water on their feet. Some dogs enjoy walking through or even lying in a child’s wading pool. It is dangerous to leave your dog or cat in a car for five minutes. If he can’t go inside at every stop with you, he’s safer at home on hot days! Car interiors heat very quickly in the hot sun, even with the windows open. If it’s 85 degrees outside, it will climb to 102 degrees inside your car within ten minutes. In half an hour, it will reach 120 degrees or more! If it’s 90 degrees out, temperatures can top 160 degrees faster than you can walk around the block. Animals who go outside need access to shade. Dark coats absorb heat. Lighter coated animals, especially white ones, are at higher risk for skin cancer from exposure to the sun and they are more susceptible to sunburn.
Brushing longer coated dogs and cats regularly gives them natural insulation from the heat. However, if the coat is matted, a summer clip makes your buddy much more comfortable and allows you a new start at keeping him brushed. Be a little careful because newly clipped animals can sunburn. If your dog spends time in the yard, make sure she has access to shade. Shade trees, a covered patio or a cool spot under the porch helps to keep her comfortable. California law requires that a tethered dog must have access to water. If the dog is tangled and not able to get to water, you may face animal cruelty charges. Companion animals want to be with you. They will be safer and cooler inside with you, where they can spend their time doing what they do best: being your best friend! Brenda F. Barnette is the CEO of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She helps bring animals and people together to enrich lives. Write to her at bbarnette@arf.net.
ARF Pet of the Month “MARTHA” is a marvelous t e n - m o n t h - o l d Spaniel/Retriever mix who was out of time at a public shelter. She is a friendly dog who loves to play. Martha is recommended for active families with children (or grandchildren) eight years old and above.Bring everyone who will live with Martha – including any canine family members – to meet her at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890
Twins were a surprise for everyone
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
RAGGEDY ANN, left and Raggedy Andy are never far from mom, Kittie’s side
Raggedy Ann (left in the photo) made her grand
entrance on April 30 at 1:15 a.m. at the Blue Oak Stables
on Morgan Territory Road. This was to no one’s surprise. HOWEVER, ten minutes later, brother, Raggedy Andy, joined her and this WAS a surprise, a big one! Actually, Andy was a rather small surprise, weighing in at less than 30 pounds. Sister Ann topped the scales at 50 pounds, but their combined weight was still far less than the 110-pound average weight for a single foal. A host of willing volunteers helped the mare, Chuck ‘n Annie Kittie (“Kittie”) and owner Brenda Long bottle-feed the tiny foal around the clock for the first few days. “I’ve had more help with these two foals than I did with my own kids,” Long laughed. According to Long, in
Owner died and this Jack Russell duo needs a home Chacho and Daisy’s owner passed away recently. His brother, Tom Ward of Clayton and H.A.L.O. (Homeless Animals Lifeline Organization), are try-
swim and is very active, but also enjoys quiet moments curled up next to her favorite people. Both dogs are good with kids. Please
Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek during adoption hours: 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.Also at ARF: Enjoy a free Well Mannered Dog Seminar from 7 – 8 p.m. at ARF on Wednesday, June 9. Get new tips about housetraining and crate training for any dog. Visit our Web site to learn more about adding a dog to your family.(925)256-1ARF www.arf.net.
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fewer than 20 percent of live birth twins, do both survive. And twins generally, are rare. Usually one or both are aborted early in the mare’s pregnancy. But, Raggedy Ann and Andy beat the odds and are doing more than just surviving. They are thriving. At press time, Ann’s weight was up to 70 pounds, and Andy’s was 45 pounds.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 21, 2004
Clayton Sports Local athletes compete in CYO Diocese championship track and field meet at DVC BY JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
During the season, the 131 athletes in grades 3-8 who had registered with St. Bonaventure CYO Track & Field team worked
hard to develop new and improved skills. They also exhibited good sportsmanship towards their teammates and toward competitors, which is part of the values taught in CYO sports. Along the way, the kids had a lot of fun
courtesy St. Bonaventure CYO track CLAYTON RESIDENT AMANDA JOHNSTON (left) gets ready to run her leg of the 4X100 sprint medley. Her foursome from St. Bonaventure CYO tack team captured third place at the Championship Diocese meet at Diablo Valley College.
Clayton resident, Mike Rose, has been in business for over 31 years and has always provided quality repair with excellent customer service!
I would like to start by introducing myself. My name is Dennis Simon and I am the Head Golf Professional at Oakhurst Country Club. I first turned professional 33 years ago. I have been in the golf business since I was 12 years old. I started out working in a bag room cleaning clubs for the membership at a private club where my father was the head professional. I opened Oakhurst Country Club in October of 1990 and it was the thrill of my life in the golf business. I was born and raised in the East Bay. I thought I would start with
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Championship are listed in the box below with their respective event(s). Here are some highlights: Floyd Williams, who competed in three separate events, the 100 meter the 200 meter and the long jump, actually won all three and in winning the long jump, he set a new CYO Diocese long jump record of 14 feet 5.25 inches. Alexis Krup won the high jump, placed second in the 800 meter and fourth in the 400 meter. Cameron Szechner won the 1600 meter (the metric "mile"). And in the 1600 meter event, every one of St. Bonaventure's runners ran their personal best time, which in track and field is one of the most important accomplishments that athletes can attain. Lena Chavez won the fifth grade girls shot put. In the relays, the fourth grade girls sprint medley relay team of Carol Ann Trost, Chrissie Adarme, Katrina Buhagiar and Amanda Johnston placed third. With those kinds of results it was an overall superb performance by the St. Bonaventure CYO athletes.
The coaches responsible for this kind of team high performance are Head Coach Joe Sullivan and his assistants, Danny Sullivan, Jerry Johnston, Daniel Spalding and Keith Muller. Head Coach Sullivan wrapped it up this way, "The kids worked hard and by the end of the season they had
met kids from a lot of different schools with a lot of different backgrounds. And to see all of the kids watching the shot put event on Saturday cheering for their teammates and giving each other 'high fives’. . . well, that's what it’s all about"!
Corey Pfeiffer - High Jump Felicia Roybal - 100 and 200 Meter Katrina Buhagiar - 200M Isaiah Dargan - 400M (alternate) Amanda Johnston - 1600M Ted Hall - 1600 M Cameron Szehner - 1600M Michael Stupka - 1600M Jordan Davis - 1600M
Davis Ensminger - Shot Put Vincent Buhagiar - Shot Put Christopher Leon - Shot Put Kristin Adarme - Shot Put Lena Chavez - Shot Put Katie Goodspeed - Softball Throw Patrick DeYoreo - Long Jump Floyd Williams - 100M, 200M, Long Jump
3rd grade girls 4x100M relay Felicia Roybal Deiziana Dargan Tianna DeSilva Clara Stegall
5th Grade Boys 4x100M relay: Brenden Eddy Patrick DeYoreo Rahil DeSilva Michael Stupka
4th grade girls Sprint Medley relay (100M, 100M, 200M, 400M) Carol Ann Trost Chrissie Adarme Katrina Buhagiar Amanda Johnston Alexis Krup - 400M, 800M, High Jump
6th grade boys Sprint Medley Relay (100M, 100M, 200M, 400M) Bryan Johnston Marc Kuzbari Travis Rogers Vincent Buhagiar
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practicing and competing while seeking individual as well as overall team improvement. Then on April 24th, CYO Track and Field Section One Qualifying Meet was held at Freedom High School in Oakley as one of the first key steps for many of these athletes toward qualifying for the big end-of-theseason championship meets. On May 1-2, the Section One Championship was held at Diablo Valley College (DVC) stadium where athletes from 18 teams participated in the second step. At the end of those meets, 28 St. Bonaventure CYO athletes qualified for the Diocese of Oakland CYO Track and Field Championship Meet, which was held May 7-8 at Diablo Valley College. Nearly 300 athletes from more than 30 teams from three different sectional qualifying meets from Contra Costa and Alameda counties qualified for the two-day championship meet at DVC. The 28 athletes from St. Bonaventure's CYO Team who qualified for the Diocese
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what is the most important part of the game, and that is the grip. Most golfers don't understand that the way you have your hands on the club actually controls the position of the clubface. That is the major reason why 90 percent of golfers slice the golf ball. Golfers try just about everything they can to stop slicing the ball but never look at their grip. That should be the first thing they check to correct ball flight. To form a neutral grip (for a right-handed golfer), place your left hand against the club square or perpendicular to the target line. The club should run diagonally from under the heel pad. The fingers of the left hand should close around the club, turning up toward the palm with the pressure in the last three fingers and the thumb running straight down the handle, slightly right of center. The right hand is placed square against the club. Then, it is closed around the handle, with the right forefinger "triggered" and the thumb resting on the left side of the handle. In the completed grip, the V's
formed by the thumbs and forefingers of each hand point approximately straight up each
DENNIS SIMON SIMON ON GOLF arm. The right hand pressure is in the two middle fingers. There are primarily three different grips: the "full finger", "the interlock" and "the overlap" which is also known as the Vardon grip. In the full finger grip all of your fingers rest on the handle. On the interlocking grip the pinky finger of the right hand interlocks with the index finger of the left hand, and
in the overlapping grip your pinky finger of the right hand rests on top of your index finger of your left hand. The most common grip is the overlapping, but which grip you choose is usually a personal preference. To form the so called stronger grip, which you might need if you have trouble releasing and rotating the club through the swing, place the club deeper in the left palm or move toward the fingers. The left hand then is turned more to the right, with the back of the hand more on the top of the club (instead of square to the target line as it is in the neutral grip). The right hand also is turned more to the right or under the handle so both V's point approximately to the right shoulder. If you need further help with your grip, or any part of your game you may call Oakhurst and schedule a lesson with one of our four golf professionals. Dennis Simon can be reached at Oakhurst Country Club 6729737 ext. 201
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 11
Clayton Sports PIONEER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Alana Laux Alana Laux is clearly in the glow of the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight this month. Alana is a freshman at Clayton Valley High School where she runs track on the varsity team. The
rays of the spotlight may be focused primarily on Alana's track skills, which make her the topic of this article, but Alana sees more in life than just sports.
Running races and running them fast is what Alana does best. In track and field she excels at the 100 meter and 200 meter sprint races, along with relays of varying lengths. In fact she will run whatever length race the coach wants or needs. At press time, she was undefeated in the 100 meter and 200 meter for the season. Her fastest times are 12.43 seconds for the 100m and 25.7 seconds for the 200m. (During soccer season her exceptional speed contributes to her success in that sport, as well.) Alana's parents, Allan and Karin, say that Alana seems to
have this "overdrive" that she can literally "kick in" whenever she needs it. They also say that Alana is possibly interested in medical school someday and with her 4.0 grade point average and her motivation that is clearly a possibility. "Alana has always worked very hard to achieve her goals. Sometimes it can be very challenging (for us). We are very proud of her." Joe Sullivan, her high school coach, describes her this way. "Alana is an outstanding athlete and a wonderful young lady!"
Competition strong at BVALs JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer Clayton Valley High School
Men and Women varsity swimming and diving Teams took second and third places respectively at the competitive Bay Valley Athletic League's Championships Friday, May 7 and Saturday, May 8 at the Brentwood Aquatic Center. Nine local high schools participated with 988 individual entries and 190 relay entries. Trials were held on Friday and the top eight swimmers in individual events advanced to the championship finals on Saturday. Swimmers who finished in places nine through 16 made it to the consolation finals on Saturday. As expected, De La Salle High School with 29 swimmers entered in 58 individual events won the men's varsity championship and Carondelet, with 31 swimmers and 61 individual entries won the women's varsity championship. Athletes were limited to a maximum of four event entries each (two individual event entries and two relay event entries each). CVHS had 14 male swimmers and 20 female swimmers on its varsity squad with 68 combined individual entries, forcing its swimmers to rise to
Sports Shorts CVHS "BOCCE DAY" AT THE OLD CVHS TRACK AND FIELDSaturday May 22 from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Community Fundraiser for new track & field. BBQ on the blacktop, games, etc. Call 672-8802 for information. CVHS 2004 FOOTBALL PARENT MEETING - Tuesday, May 25 at 8 p.m. - The meeting for incoming
the challenge. Liberty had 16 female swimmers taking second place among the women's teams. Relay entries were even with CVHS and Liberty at 12 (six each for men and women) and DLS and Carondelet both at six each. One interesting aspect of the meet was that many swimmers from the various teams were still seeking North Coast Section qualifying times. Another intriguing aspect was the competitive battle again between the CVHS and Liberty ladies teams. On April 23 the CVHS women beat Liberty by a mere four points in a regular season league meet when CVHS took first and third places in the last race of the day, the 400 yard Freestyle Relay, to win the regular season BVAL championship. But that was not to be the case this time. Team results for varsity women were: Carondelet 581, Liberty 362, CVHS 342, Deer Valley 264, Freedom 219, Ygnacio Valley 140, and Antioch 104. Team scores for varsity men were: DLS 588.5, CVHS 343.5, Freedom 234, YV 229, Liberty 221, Deer Valley 203, and Antioch 129. CVHS individual and relay "top eight" results in the Championship Finals included: 200 Yard Medley Relay, Women - 2nd place (Ziedler, Freshman, JV and Varsity parents and players will be held at the CV Multiuse room. Topics will include Football Youth Camp, summer weight training, the Lift-a-thon, CVHS Athletic Boosters and the 2004 season schedule. Freshmen can sign up that night. Come meet the coaches and get ready for another outstanding season; especially with the new CVHS track and field stadium. Call Herc Pardi, CVHS Head Varsity Football Coach, 682-7474 Ext. 3115 if any questions or for more information.
Hansen, Yung, Kiyama); Men 4th place (Walker, Peterson, Zewan, K.Bowen); 200 Freestyle, Women - K.Porcella 7th place and S.Boessenecker 8th, Men - Zefeldt 6th and T. Porcella 8th; 200 Individual Medley, Women -Yung 3rd, Men - Zachan 4th and Walker 7th; 50 Freestyle, Women Kiyama 3rd and Ziedler 5th, MenK.Bowen 2nd and Zewan 4th; Diving, Women -Cutter 2nd and Chirco 5th, Men - K. Goodwin 1st; 100 Yd Butterfly, Women -Yung 7th and Hansen 8th, Men - Zachan 6th; 100 Freestyle, Women Kiyama 3rd; Men - K. Bowen 2nd; 500 Yd Freestyle, Men - T. Porcella 7th; 200 Freestyle Relay, Women -3rd place (K. Porcella, S. Boessenecker, Richards, Farizell), Men - 3rd place (Zefeldt, T. Porcella, Walker, Zachan); 100 Backstroke, Men - Walker 3rd, D. Boessenecker 8th; 100 Breaststroke, Women - Hansen 5th, Men - Zewan 4th; 400 Freestyle Relay, Women - 3rd
place (Ziedler, K. Porcella, Yung, Kiyama), Men - 2nd place (Zefeldt, Zachan, Zewan, K. Bowen). Other Clayton area swimmers with individual "top eight" results included: Matt Biel from DLS, 200 Freestyle 2nd and 500 Freestyle 1st and Julianne McLane from Carondelet, 500 Freestyle 2nd. Both swimmers also competed at NCS at Heather Farms in Walnut Creek on May 14-15. The individual CVHS swimmers and divers who made NCS were: 200 Individual Medley Anita Yung and Matt Zachan; 50 Free - Kayla Zeidler, Lindsay Kiyama and Kevin Bowen; 1 M Diving - Caiti Cutter, Katie Chirco and Korance Goodwin; 100 Fly Yung and Zachan; 100 Free Kiyama and Bowen; 100 Back Bryce Walker; 100 Breast Lindsey Hansen and Matt Zewan. CVHS also had three women's and three men's relay teams qualify for NCS.
Favorite Sport: Soccer and Track Favorite Band: Rascal Flatts Favorite Subject in School: Biology Favorite Pastime: Spending time with family and friends. The Clayton Pioneer spotlights a local youth athlete from our circulation area in the second issue each month. If you are a coach or an administrator and would like to nominate a young person (under 20 years of age) for the Rocco's Athlete Spotlight, please send information to sports@claytonpioneer.com or fax to 672-6580. Deadline for our June 18 issue is Monday, June 14.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
It’s all chemistry What exactly is the pharmaceutical phenom known to the free world as Botox? If you believe all the hype surrounding the big "B" -- it's the mira-
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Don't get me wrong, I'm as keen on 'better living through chemistry' as the next modern gal, but I'm almost 100 percent absolutely sure that I wouldn't go so far as to have Botox injected into my armpits to prevent unsightly perspiration on my favorite designer tee-shirt. Then again, I'm not a famous celebrity worried about the general anarchy that might ensue if fans discovered that I actually (gasp!) broke a sweat when nervous. Many of our most celebrated superstars are obvious imbibers of the most notorious injectable since the polio vaccine, and we wouldn't recognize them if they didn't. But it isn't just the rich and famous who have chosen to go the Botox by-way. This little beauty secret has gone so mainstream that business executives vying to impress clients and boards of directors, lawyers endeavoring to sway juries, and soccer moms working to tie the hands of time, are doing it. So what exactly does 'doing it' involve? First of all, let's define what Botox is and what it isn't. Botox is not poison - if it were, as they say, half of Hollywood would be dead. It isn't botulism, either. Rather, Botox is a by-product of the botulism bacteria. To press the point, and since bacteria is a living organism, you could go so far as to say that Botox is actually botulism poo. To get technical, Botox is a purified toxin produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum and is used to treat existing wrinkles and reduce wrinkle-producing facial expressions. To administer the drug, a physician will inject small doses of it to paralyze a specific muscle, say the "frown furrows" that appear between the eyes and contribute to an angry or tired appearance. Within three to four days, the lines of the facial expression treated are said to be reduced, and the overlying skin appears smooth and unwrinkled. I heard one plastic surgeon call it a minifacelift because when injected in specific areas, such as the forehead, the ensuing muscular
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LOOKIN’ GOOD paralysis has a "lifting" effect. How it works: muscles function because of stimulus they receive from the brain, which assigns an action based on data input ("I'm afraid!" or, "I'm happy!"). If there is interference of that "assignment," the muscle remains "blank." The message still gets sent, but because of chemical obstruction, the message goes missing. By selectively interfering with the underlying muscles' ability to contract, existing frown lines are smoothed out. The effects of Botox are reported to last three to five months, though repeat treatments are necessary to retain the results. According to one source, although it's impossible to get botulism from Botox injections, it isn't risk-free. If too much serum is injected, for example, or if it is injected into the wrong facial area, a person can end up with droopy eyelid muscles (ptosis) that could last for weeks. Naturally, it (almost) goes without saying that you will want to choose your reputable physician through a referral, and not simply go with the guy who is offering the best deal for you and sixteen of your closest friends at a gala Chardonnay, Brie & Botox event. Naturally, for those who are squeamish about needles, or for whom the $400-$1500 price tag for injections are a turn-off, there are alternatives. There is a swelling market of "topical Botox" products that aim for the same effect, at less cost. One popular and widely-advertised product claims the same effect, but doesn't go the distance. While Strivectin-SV does in fact enhance the body's production of collagen so that wrinkles get "plumped-up" and appear less obvious, it isn't a
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neural-inhibitor, so wrinkleproducing muscles continue to work away creating more wrinkles. Another product, called the Wrinkle Prescription (WRx), is also a topical cream and does block the muscles from receiving the "contract and wrinkle" message. It can be used in tandem with Botox to prolong the effects, or can be used on its own to achieve the same results, though more gradually, and with out the stab of a needle. W-Rx is more expensive than Strivectin, but cheaper and less painful than an injection. It's a personal decision, and the informed consumer will make the best choice. It isn't really surprising that
Ed's Mudville Grill in downtown Clayton is the place to be this Saturday, May 22, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. for a very special fundraiser. Clayton's own police officers will be waiting on tables as part of the annual Special Olympics event. Tip them generously as all proceeds benefit the Special Olympics of Contra Costa County. For information call Susan Burdett at 673-7350 or the restaurant at 6200 Center Street, Clayton, 925-673-0333. The Special Olympics torch is travelling throughout California and will be coming over Kirker Pass at 12 p.m. on Saturday June 22. Sgt. Jason Russo and interns Kimberly Nelson and Andrew Sammut will bring the torch up Clayton Road to Main Street. Clayton will keep the torch overnight and pass it on to the Concord Police team the next day. The torch will be taken from town to town until it reaches its final destination in Stockton, where the Northern California Special Olympics Games kick off on Friday, June 25.Call Susan Hulse, Regional Director, Special Olympics for more information 925-673-7350.
Aegis grand opening Aegis Senior Living in Concord is hosting it's grand opening on May 23 from 1 to 4 p.m. featuring Golden Girl of Theater, TV and movies, Rue McClanahan,. The event is open to the public and includes guided tours, music and refreshments. Models are now open at Aegis, the new independent and assisted living community with 146 apartments including a mini theater, ballroom, swimming pool and Jacuzzi. The residential building on Clayton Road features state-of-the-art design with an expert staff that is sensitive to the needs of people who are aging. Aegis has used advanced technology to create individualized care plans and will concentrate on enhancing the life of the residents through its special culture, Optimal Living. The Redmond, Washington based company owns and or manages 30 independent and assisted living communities in the western United States. For more information on Aegis grand opening call 925-692-5838.
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fair and classes On Saturday, June 12, a Community Arts Fair, hosted by the YMCA at the Clayton Community Gym will feature a variety of artists from all over the Bay Area. The event will include live art demonstrations, artwork for sale and fun activities for kids. The Fair begins at 10 a.m. and admission is free. Beginning June 3, the YMCA will offer art classes for all ages. Art and the Creative Mind is for ages 6-12 and will be on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Introduction to Art follows for teens 15 -18, and adults. Instructor Seth Ahonen, a local artist and graduate of St. Mary's College will teach the classes. Registration is required for the eight-week session and scholarships are available. According to District Vice President Lisa Ramirez, no one is turned away due to lack of funds. "It's our intention to begin a brand new arts enrichment program that will offer something for everyone. We're excited about this," said Ramirez. For more information on the YMCA arts enrichment programs and the Community Arts Fair call the YMCA at 925889-1600.
May 21, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
Virus subscriptions...your clock is ticking
WILL CLANEY TECH TALK Do you know when your antivirus program expires? When it does expire, you expose your system with the latest viri, Trojans, worms and exploits. The clock is ticking. All virus programs have expiration dates tied to their subscription period
relating to the virus definition files. When the subscription period ends, the virus definition updates stop, and it immediately stops protecting you. Purchasing an antivirus program like Norton or McAfee will not protect you unless you subscribe to the latest virus definition files. Is your subscription up to date? Unlike magazine subscription freebees at the end of the subscription period, antivirus definition files simply quit updating your computer once you reach the end of your subscription contract. When you purchase a new computer from Dell, HP, Gateway or Costco you get the antivirus program prepackaged on the hard drive. Once home and preferably before you connect to the Internet, you must install the antivirus program and activate it. Activation starts the subscription
agreement term. Most pre-packaged antivirus subscription periods are one to three months. What you need is a full version, and full protection for one year. Antivirus software has two parts. The first part is the application, meaning the program, which executes instructions, i.e., the engine, and the second part is the definitions or data file. The engine searches through the antivirus data file and compares the entries in the data file with other files on your computer's hard drive. If the engine finds a match between your data file and the files on your computer it determines that a virus exists and attempts to eradicate it before it can do harm to your important data or operating system. New or modified viri invented every day with unique signatures or definitions require constant updating. Access to the def-
inition file through a subscription is critical to keep your computer virus free. For example, the latest threat is (actually a worm differing from a true virus but realized in the same way a virus is) known as W32/Sasser.worm.d. the name is nearly the same as the original, W32/Sasser.worm.a, but the new version, called a variant, requires a new definition for the antivirus program to detect it. Sasser is a variant from Lovsan Blaster the original "Blaster" virus. Updates on new and variations of existing viri are the reason it is essential to keep your subscription current. I've known for some time now that it's easier to protect against a virus than to fix an infection. Once you're infected, it is entirely possible that the fix won't entirely wipe the virus out. There may be hidden programs,
CVHS Hip-Hop group to perform at Kidfest Clayton Valley High School's Hip-Hop Dance club will perform at this year's KidFest at Todos Santos Plaza in Concord on Sunday, May 30 at 4:45 p.m. The group features more than 20 talented performers including four Clayton residents; Sophia Brown, Nicole
Smith, Mitzy Albano and Missy Polido. The group started just last year with only four members and has grown in size and popularity. The 15th annual KidFest is a three-day event (May 29, 30 and 31) featuring all types of entertainment, food booths,
petting zoo, Nickelodeon's Dora the Explorer, comedy, juggling and more. Five handson activity centers such as a
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which help the virus return, propagate, track your bank account or invite other viri in. My recommendation for a virus program is McAfee 8.x. Some of you remember older versions of McAfee and probably weren't happy with some of the results or in the way it worked. Much has changed in
the virus/antivirus business and McAfee is the best-equipped program to handle today's challenges. Be sure to contact a licensed professional if your files get infected. Will Claney is the owner and operator of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 672-9989.
Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Mayor, from page 1 redevelopment agencies of California made a pact with the Governor to address the state budget shortfall while working together to secure State Legislature and voter support in November 2004 for another new constitutional amendment. Cities insisted it have revenue and mandate protections equivalent to or better than those in our LOCAL initiative. The Governor personally committed to bring the same leadership he exercised with workers’ compensation reform and Propositions 57 and 58 to the passage of the new constitutional amendment. Absent agreement, the Governor declared he would oppose our measure. The centerpiece of the agreement is a permanent reduction in the Vehicle License Fee (VLF) rate car owners pay from 2 to 0.65 percent (its current effective rate). This would trigger elimination of the VLF “backfill” (approximately $4 billion) which would be replaced with a like share of property taxes by the state to local governments, dollar-for-dollar except for a twoyear “contribution” by cities and counties of $700 million ($350 million each) in both 2005-05 and 2005-06. In the third year, cities and counties would receive
the full amount of the replacement property tax in exchange for the VLF backfill, which would grow as property tax grows in the future. This agreement would increase every city’s and county’s share of the property tax. Right now, our city only gets 4.35 percent of the property tax revenue. The new constitutional amendment would contain the same revenue protection features as our LOCAL initiative, as well as some new features that enhance the level of revenue and mandate protection: It would: Protect the property tax allocations of local governments; Protect the remaining VLF and require the state repay to local agencies the current year’s $1.3 billion VLF backfill “loan” in 2006-07; Protect the authority and methods of distribution of the local sales tax, and guarantee that the quarter cent sales tax is returned to the cities when the Prop 57 state deficit bonds are retired. New provisions would require (1) repayment by the state of its deferred unfunded mandate obligations to local governments over five years, beginning in 2006-07; and (2) that mandates automatically expire if the legislature fails
GHAD, from page 1
$300,000. According to City Engineer Rick Angrisani, as the reserves built up, the City Council voted to reduce the assessments, planning to raise them again as needed. But, in 1997, Proposition 218 passed requiring voter approval of new or increased local taxes. As the reserves dwindled, the GHAT went to the voters three different times for increases to the assessments. All three times, the increase was defeated. Current assessments bring in $28,600 per year for GHAT operations. Current balance in the operations account is $3,600. Clayton hillsides (and hill-
geologic problems that are common to hillside developments, the City required developer Presley Homes, to form the GHAT as a condition of approval of the subdivision. The special district was to be funded through annual assessments on the property tax rolls and the property owners in the district were initially assessed $100 to $125 per year. The original intent was to use a portion of the assessment proceeds for maintenance of facilities, such as concrete ditches and drains in open space areas and to fund a reserve for future repairs of $200,000 to
to fund them. The two year budget agreement can only take effect if the new constitutional amendment is approved by the legislature and passed by the voters. After two years, cities would get back the VLF backfill loan and the state could no longer take the protected revenues to balance the state budget without voter approval. What does this all mean for Clayton? In addition to the $2.7 million the state has already taken from Clayton since 1991, Clayton will “contribute” an additional $78,000 to fund the state’s budget deficit for each of the next two years. It will be painful, but in exchange, the Governor will join with local agencies to pass a new constitutional amendment to secure our local shares of the property tax. Since Clayton only gets just over four percent of that check you write, every penny counts! In addition, we’ll get back secured property tax dollars in lieu of those dollars we lost to the VLF reduction. We would also get repaid for the $207,987 “borrowed” by the state when they shifted the VLF rates last June. The state would not be able to “borrow” from local agencies again without first getting voter approval. Before anyone thinks this is a
May 21, 2004
complete solution - it’s not! Neither our LOCAL initiative, nor this agreement with the Governor restores everything the state has taken over the years. We are not even close to being returned to the prior levels of funding we had before the thievery began over a decade ago, but it does set a new base funding that we can count on, eliminating the guessing game about how much more money would be taken this month. And the state will also continue to take redevelopment agency monies, to the tune of $337,000 next year. What does this mean for our LOCAL Initiative? It will still be on the ballot and will provide a safety net for local agencies should the legislature fail to put the new bill on the ballot. The Governor has pledged to work with us to get legislative approval and to campaign hard for passage of the new measure, so we are optimistic about its success. The Governor heard our plea, now we hope the legislature will, too. We’ll keep you posted on our progress. The momentum behind both of these measures should provide a real incentive to the legislature to make significant structural reforms to the budget process and to stop using local agencies as their ATM machine!
sides all around the Bay Area) are vulnerable to landslides during periods of heavy rain. Serious landslides occurred in several areas of the Oakhurst development during the “El Nino” rains of 1998. Damage to public and private property was extensive, and in 2000, the City filed suit against Presley Homes. The suit was settled for $628,500 in 2002. The funds are being used to repair damage to public property and to perform the ground movement monitoring that resulted in the Berlogar report. To date, there is only $14,000 of the lawsuit settlement remaining for monitoring.
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May 21, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
Religion
Clayton Flowers
The Pioneer wants to know what is happening in your parish, congregation, temple, synagogue, mosque or other place of worship. Tell us about your ministries, upcoming activities or notable members. Send your news items to Clayton Pioneer, PO Box 1246, Clayton 94517 or e-mail religion@claytonpioneer.com. 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The staff also invites all to church services Sunday 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. For more information, call 798-5330.
ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY will greatly miss
KAREN LAIBLE RELIGION EDITOR BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON
On Saturday, June 5, at 7:30 p.m. the Clayton Baha’i group welcomes Fereshte and Toni Faustini as guest speakers for the evening gathering. Both Dr. and Mrs. Faustini have degrees in computer science and work in the Silicon Valley. The topic for the evening will be “Nature of the Soul—Good and Evil!” All are invited to participate in the discussion and fellowship. For more information: 672-6686.
FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH,
4006 Concord Blvd., Concord, has openings for summer and fall preschool. The preschool is open Monday through Friday,
Hide and Seek, The DaVinci Code BY REV. JOHN BENNISON, RECTOR St. Johns Episcopal Church Special to Clayton Pioneer
Part 1 The perennial observance of Mother’s Day has passed, with Father’s Day right around the corner. Retail spending on moms this year was estimated at $10.4 billion. As a father myself, I’d say money well spent; especially if dads might fare nearly as well! Looking for the perfect gift, in either case, one might consider some fun summer reading, like Dan Brown’s controversial bestseller, The DaVinci Code. After all, it’s all about the thrill and the threat of a Divine parent; and presumably, the startling implications for contemporary Christian folklore. If you haven’t read the book, you have a choice here. You can either continue reading these comments and risk spoiling a few possible literary surprises in store for you. Or proceed with a commentary like this as a reference lens, brought to you in two parts. In either case, it’s helpful to remember historical fiction is still fiction. Its primary purpose is entertainment, not edification. Though there’s been a barrage of counter-claims from historians, ecclesiastical authorities, religious conservatives, etc., attempting to debunk some of the assertions portrayed in the book as historical facts, the book taunts us with underlying possibilities that are still fun to imagine; namely, the nature and presence of the sacred feminine, as revealed — or concealed — in the Christian tradition and human story. The DaVinci Code is a story about code makers and code breakers, about secret conspiracies, corruption, power struggles, mystery, murder and mayhem, with a little romance, and even a hint of ritualistic sex thrown into the mix. As an author, how could you miss? The story begins in modernday Paris, when the murdered body of the Louvre’s curator is found laid out at the foot of the
Clayton resident Rich Nielsen as he and his wife, Peggy, move to a new home in the Sacramento area. Rich has served the St. Bonaventure community in a variety of ways. He has been a member of the facilities committee of the parish since 1998. As the parish developed its future building plans, Rich served on the initial Architect Selection Team, which chose the architects to design the new buildings. Rich then served as the Chairperson of the Building Committee. In this role, he has volunteered untold hours of service as the on-site project manager. Rich has also been instrumental in the children’s faith formation program at St. Bonaventure. He has been a catechist for fourth and fifth grade
students for the past eight years and this year he was the fifth grade chairperson On Thursday, May 27, at 7:30 p.m. St. Bonaventure will hold the spring Mass of Remembrance. This Mass is a special celebration for those who have lost loved ones during the last year. All are invited to bring pictures of their loved ones and to stay for hospitality following the Mass. On Saturday, May 29, the Filipino Community of St. Bonaventure will hold its annual Flores de Mayo celebration, honoring the Blessed Mother. The event will begin with the recitation of the rosary in the parish hall before the 5 p.m. Mass. Dinner featuring traditional Filipino foods will be served in the hall following the Mass. All are invited. For more information: 6725800.
ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL
The Parish observes the Feast of Pentecost on Sunday,
May 30, at the 8 and 10 a.m. worship services. In the Anglican tradition, Pentecost is the third most important observance in the Church’s liturgical year—just behind Easter and Christmas. Pentecost celebrates the gift of the Spirit as God’s knowing presence. The sacrament of Holy Baptism is normally administered on this feast day. The annual church picnic will take place at the Clayton Community Park following the 10 a.m. service. The “Cine-Sancta” program begins in the month of June at St. John’s. Each month, interested adults attend a selected secular film screening at a local theater. A discussion follows, over coffee, facilitated by John Bennison, the parish rector. This popular program combines theological discussion with a night at the movies. All events at St. John’s are always open to the community. For more information: 6728855.
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Community leaders gather for National Day of Prayer Lisa Ramirez, District Vice President for the YMCA headquartered in Clayton was among some 25 community leaders who came together on Thursday, May 6 at Clayton Community Church (CCC) to celebrate the National Day of Prayer. The event was co-sponMona Lisa in a pose that resembles DaVinci’s Vertruvian Man. The main suspect who is then pursued by the authorities is a Harvard professor of symbology, Robert Langdon. Helping him elude the chief inspector is a beautiful French cryptologist, Sophie Neveu. The convoluted puzzle to be solved becomes a treasure hunt in search of the legendary Holy Grail. The main characters’ adventures are threatened by two other mysterious groups; a secret society called the Priory of Sion, and a conservative Catholic organization, Opus Dei. Both have their own reasons for wanting to ensure that the true identity of the Grail is not revealed. As it turns out, the Holy Grail isn’t the cup of Christ, but a secret code, which reveals the lineage of a well-known father and obscure mother; namely, Jesus and Mary Magdalene. And, DaVinci’s paintings reveal a different Magdalene than the harlot characterized by the early church’s attempts to discredit her true identity and relationship with Jesus. Perhaps the weakest link in the book’s complex chain of events lies, in fact, with the presumed notion that such a revelation would have cataclysmic ramifications. A married Jesus with a shared human lineage would not only reinstate the power and authority of the feminine divine; but presumably undo the doctrinal argument for a celibate male priesthood, as well as the untainted purity of Jesus as the Christ. Yet, believe it or not, there are believing Christians who wouldn’t necessarily find such a claim or revelation much cause for alarm. Brown’s novel, of course, is not the first piece of fiction to consider the what-if scenario of a married Jesus, and the possibility of human offspring co-created between the one accorded the title of eternal Son of God, and a mortal female. For example, in Nikos Kazantzakis’ Last Temptation of Christ, there is the dreamlike sequence where the author invites us to imagine the human side of
Jesus succumbing to the natural desire to save himself from an agonizing, untimely death on the cross; and opt instead for love and marriage, children and family, and growing old together with Mary. It may be helpful to put the controversy over this latest novel in some perspective. After all, the Christian doctrine of the Incarnation itself is a presupposed, inexplicable, theological self-contradiction (Jesus as fully human, and fully divine); which must ultimately be taken on faith. The outrageous divine act itself (lit. skandalon, Gr.) is revealed in the New Testament gospels themselves, when God enters human flesh in the nativity of Jesus of Nazareth. The Incarnation is a code that can never be cleverly deciphered. Viewed as such then, just how big a theological jump is it really to regard those who follow Jesus — the messiah and offspring of God – to be spiritual sons and daughters of the Most High themselves? A bigger challenge for those troubled by this novel may be to deconstruct what remains for so many the exclusively-male image of God, which still pervades so much of Christian language and culture when speaking of the Divine. In that regard, the pop controversy surrounding Dan Brown’s book may prove helpful. This is what we’ll look at in “Hide & Seek, Part II,” in the next issue of The Pioneer. Meanwhile, we might consider our own experience of God. Is it about an elusive, shadowy, secretive figure; whose truth and presence you must pursue and decipher? Or, is it like the mother or father of the prodigal son or daughter, who has no interest in hiding; but rather waits at the gate, forever ready and eager to welcome us home? Saint John’s Episcopal Parish’s Adult Forum will host a 1-hour open discussion of The DaVinci Code, Sunday, May 30 at 9 a.m., in the Fireside Room. The Rector will facilitate. Everyone is invited and welcome. For more information: call 6728855, or email info@saintjohnsparish.org
sored by the YMCA and CCC to bring awareness to the necessity of prayer for effective leadership. Guest speakers were Sherie Laurence, wife of Council Member Pete Laurence, Ramirez and Sean Robinson, pastor of Clayton Community Church.
Clayton’s
Memorial Day Observance Veterans Veterans of of Foreign Foreign Wars Wars Memorial Memorial Flagpole Flagpole on on Main Main Street Street Memorial Memorial Day, Day, May May 31, 31, 2004 2004 at at 10:00 10:00 AM AM
Program 9:30 10:00 10:10 11:15
AM AM AM AM
Gather and be seated Presentation of colors Memorial day program “Taps” and colors retire
Clayton Valley VFW Post 1525 invites you and your family to join your Clayton and Concord neighbors at this year’s observance
Program Participants Julie Pierce, Mayor of Clayton Mark DeSaulnier, Contra Costa County Supervisor Ron Van Buskirk, Quartermaster, VFW Post 1525 Robert Riser, Bugler (Concord) Pine Hollow & Diablo View Middle School Bands Veterans of Foreign Wars Color Guard Olympic High School ROTC Color Guard (Concord) United States Marine Corps Color Guard Boy Scouts of America Troop 242 (Clayton) Public - Open mike to take a moment to remember someone
Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 21, 2004
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., MAY 24 FOR THE JUNE 4 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT ONGOING - SEPTEMBER 26 Unfinished Quilts of the 30’s & 40’s @ Clayton Historical Society Museum 2-4 p.m. and by appointment. Everyday items from the 1930s and 1940s will also be on display including pictures, depression glass, clothing, toys and books. A finished “Lone Star” quilt from 1942 will be displayed. Clayton Historical Society Museum, 6101 Main Street, Clayton, 672-0240. ONGOING - AUGUST Concord/Clayton Mt. Diablo Region YMCA Spring and summer programs at the Clayton Community gym for adults and children including hockey, basketball, soccer volleyball, fitness classes and art classes. Call 889-2600 for information. MAY 14 AARP meeting, Mt. Diablo Chapter 524 @ Pleasant Hill Senior Center 1:30 p.m. Assembly of Vial Of Life Materials: CD cases with emergency medical information sheets. All participants will receive a Vial of Life. For Information please contact Fred Nelson (925) 451-1292, 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. MAY 20 VFW, Veterans of Foreign Wars Meeting @ Concord Veteran's Building 7:30 p.m. Lt. Jerry Novakovich VFW Post 1525. Buddy Poppies will be distributed on Friday, May 28, and Saturday, May 29, 2004. Sign up to man a Donation Station at one of the three Safeways' located in the Clayton/Concord area. Contact Pete Loechner (925) 682-6533. Concord Veteran's Building, Willow Pass and Colfax, Concord. MAY 21, 28, JUNE 4, 11 Digital Thunder Bowling @ Clayton Bowl 4-6 p.m. Digital Thunder Bowling on Friday afternoons for kids includes music, lights and bumper lanes. Clayton Valley Bowl, 689-4631. MAY 22 19th Annual Dana Hills Community Garage Sale 9 a.m. - 1p.m. Pick up maps and info at the entrance of Dana Hills. Sponsored by Lori Hagge, Allice Ponti & Larry Schafer, Century 21 Realty. Call 682-4663 for information. MAY 22 Special Olympics Tip-A-Cop @ Ed’s Mudville Grill 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Come for an evening of dining fun and be waited on by Clayton’s finest. All proceeds benefit the Special OIympics of Contra Costa County. For information call Susan Burdett at 673-7350. Ed’s Mudville Grill, 6200 Center Street, Clayton. MAY 23 Friends of Mt. Diablo Creek Picnic & Hike @ Mt. Diablo State Park, Mitchell Canyon Picnic Area 12 - 1 p.m. picnic, 1 - 2:30 p.m. hike. Learn about newly formed creek group. Bring a bag lunch- ice cream and soda provided. Hike to explore past & present mining activities of Mt. Diablo area with Ranger Cameron Morrison. (Moderately strenuous hike to Mitchell Rock.) See www.mdia.org for hike information. Friends of Mt. Diablo Creek is a community group seeking to increase awareness of Mt. Diablo Creek and its watershed, to preserve and restore the creek's habitats, and to add to the quality of life for the residents of Clayton, Concord, and Clyde. MAY 24 Red Hat Society 6:30 p.m. First get together for a new Clayton chapter, “The Grape Expectations.” Members are women who are dedicated to greeting middle age with a sense of humor and gusto. Open to new members. Call Avalene Regan, 672-5674 or Judy Cowan, 673-5144. MAY 26, JUNE 2,9,16,23,30 Skipolini’s Classic Car Show downtown Clayton 6-8:30 p.m. Every Wednesday evening, now through October, Skipolini’s sponsors the classic car show. A DJ spins oldies on the Skipolini’s patio while people stroll the street checking out thecars. MAY 27
Friends of Mt. Diablo Creek Meeting @ Clayton Library's Meeting Room 7 - 9 p.m. Learn about our recently formed creek group. The evening will feature "Environmental Treasure,"John Keibel's photographic presentation of the plants and animals of the Concord Naval Weapons Station. There will be a brief presentation about the County's upcoming Open Space Ballot Measure. Clayton Community Library, Clayton. MAY 31 Memorial Day Program @ Downtown Clayton Flagpole 9:30 a.m. seating, program 10 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Annual program run by VFW Post 1525. All are welcome to join in this year’s observance to honor our veterans. JUNE 3-6 Contra Costa County Fair Carnival open Thurs. 1-11 p.m., Fri.-Sun. 11a.m.-11p.m., exhibit buildings open until 10 p.m. 925-779-7916 Thurs. June 3 (50's Nite): the Diamonds 5 & 7:30 pm Fri. June 4 (Kid's Day): Crdle 7 pm; Molly Hatchet 8 pm Sat. June 5: Smokin' Armadillos 8 pm, Sat. June 5 (Grad Nite): Red With Envy 10 pm, Sun. June 6 (Hispanic Day): Hispanic Rodeo 7:30, Fri & Sat 5, 7 &9 pm: The Hypnosis Company, Ages 6 and under free, 7-12 $4, 13-61 $7, 62 and up $4. 1201 W 10th Street, Antioch, info@cccfair.org. JUNE 4-26 I Do! I Do! @ CTA Crossroads Theatre Follow the life of a couple from their wedding day through 50 years of life together, as they navigate family, mid-life crises, quarrels, reconciliations and growing old together. Written by the authors of The Fantasticks. Opens June 5, preview June 4. Saturdays, Thursdays and Fridays 8 p.m., Saturday matinees 2 p.m. CTA Crossroads Theatre, 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek, 944-0597, www.ctacrossroads.org. JUNE 5 Experimental Aircraft Association Rally @ Buchanan Field 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 393 is offering free airplane rides to kids ages 8-17. For applications and information call Pat Peters at 925-930-6447. A short ground school will be conducted by a qualified pilot prior to the free ride to explain the basic principals of flight. MDPA Club House, 200 Sally Ride Drive, Concord. JUNE 12 - AUGUST 28 Bound for Books, Summer Reading Program @ Clayton Community Library Keep up your reading during the summer and win exciting prizes. See librarian for details. Clayton Community Library, Clayton. JUNE 12 YMCA Art Fair @ Clayton Community Gym 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Demonstrations and work for sale by Bay Area artists. Fun activities for kids of all ages. Admission is free. Clayton Community Gym JUNE 13 Concord Mt. Diablo Gymhkana Trail Ride @ Russelmann and Marsh Creek Roads 7:30 a.m. sign ups, 8:30 a.m. start. Classes- pole bending, birangle, hurry scurry, speed barrels, skill barrels and cloverleaf barrels. All age groups welcome. For information and entry forms call Jennifer or Linda Hull, 673-1838 or CMDTRAplayday04@aol.com. Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association, Russelmann & Marsh Creek Roads. JUNE 14 - AUGUST YMCA 1/2 Day Sports Camps @ Clayton Community Gym 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 1/2 day sports camps for boys and girls entering grades 1-6. Coaches will focus on fundamentals, skill improvement, learning the basics of offensive and defensive strategy, and sportsmanship through age appropriate games and activities. Camps in baseball, flag football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, and super sports. Clayton Community Gym. JUNE 15, 22, 29 Story Book Club @ Clayton Community Library 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. Be your own author! Write and illustrate a picture book for display in the library. Registration required, program is free. For children entering grades 2 and up. Sponsored by Philanthropic Ventures Foundation. Clayton Community Library, Clayton.
JUNE 22 12 - 1 p.m. Torch Run for Special Olympics, Downtown Clayton The torch will come over Kirker Pass at 12 p.m. Sgt. Jason Russo, and interns Kimberly Nelson and Andrew Sammut will bring the torch up Clayton Road to Main Street, Clayton. The torch’s destination is Stockton, CA, where the Special Olympics Games will be held in on Friday, June 25, 2004. Call Susan Hulse, Regional Director, Special Olympics for information 673-7350. JUNE 22 - JULY 29 Patty Cakes @ Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. Story time for birth to 3 years. Clayton Community Library, JULY 2-30 Friday Night Family Movies, Clayton Community Church 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Outdoor movies and social in the parking lot next to the Clayton Community Church offices, 6055 Main Strteet, Clayton. For information call Brad Carter, 673-2159.
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS MAY 20, 27, JUNE 3,10 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting 10 a.m., 5 & 6:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. Prospective members welcome. Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. 800/3268450 x2023. MAY 20, 27, JUNE 3,10 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker. Oakhurst Country Club. www.claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640.
BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT MAY 25, JUNE 1, 8, 15 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ Clayton Library 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. MAY 25, JUNE 8, 22 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. Clayton Library Community Room. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304. MAY 27 Clayton Business & Community Association Meeting @ Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting on last non-holiday Thursday of month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon. Oakhurst Country Club. Ed Hartley 672-2272. JUNE 10 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304.
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION JUNE8 Parent Faculty Club (PFC) Meeting, @ Multi Use Room, Mt. Diablo Elementary 7 p.m. Don't miss this important meeting! The allocation and spending of carryover funds will be a top of discussion. Babysitting is provided. If you would like to have a specific item included on the agenda, please contact Rosy Straka at rosystraka@yahoo.com or 672-3200. http://www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/mountdiabloelementary. Mt. Diablo Elementary Multi Use Room.
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May 21, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 17
Peter Morrison...Clayton’s magic man
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
MAGICIAN PETER MORRISON CAPTIVATES HIS YOUNG AUDIENCE in downtown Clayton at Skipolini's with one of his many amazing card tricks. Clayton resident Morrison is a master of the sleight of hand magic and is known throughout the Bay Area as a seasoned performer. From left, six year-old Tony Romano, three-year-old Roger Salcedo and seven-year-old Cody White. BY JILL BEDECARRE Clayton Pioneer
Rabbits suddenly hopping out of black hats. Doves disappearing in a flash. Small white balls multiplying in the blink of an eye. It's the stuff good magicians, like Peter Morrison, are made of. It's the stuff that leaves audiences of all ages spellbound. Morrison refers to the effect of his performances as "unleashing the moment of astonishment." Local writer, Joe Romano, and a fan of Morrison's style of magic, puts it in layman's terms when he said "it's the ‘huh’ effect.” Clayton resident Morrison calls his style "classical." He shows up at party or show
dressed in a black tux, hair slicked back. He's a seasoned performer, comfortable entertaining before a group of 500 or in a close-up, one-on-one encounter with a curious fiveyear-old. He loves what he does and it shows. Recently at Skipolini's in downtown Clayton, where Morrison performs every Tuesday, it looked like he was having as much fun as his audience. He smiled, laughed and strolled with ease from table to table, demonstrating one of his many specialties, sleight of hand magic. He does amazing things with cards and coins and rings and ropes. Small white balls magically disappear and reappear out of nowhere. The card in your hand that you
City of Clayton has commission openings The City of Clayton is accepting applications for the following positions: Planning Commission The City of Clayton is accepting applications for the Planning Commission. Appointments currently held by Ben Jay, Glenn Miller and Kevin Parker will expire June 30, 2004. The twoyear terms are from July 1, 2004 until June 30, 2006. These are volunteer positions with a $100 monthly stipend. The applicant must be a resident of Clayton. The Planning Commission holds approximately 24 meetings a year on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month. In addition, there are intermittent study sessions and subcommittee meetings. The applicant should demonstrate service and dedication to the community. The Planning Commission is an advisory body to the City Council and
is responsible for City planning issues, including site plan reviews, development decisions, and environmental clearances. Community Services Commission Appointments currently held by Barbara Dwyer, Sebastian Jacobs, Linda Smith and Natalie Hartley (student member) will expire June 30, 2004. These are volunteer positions with a $75 per month stipend when a meeting is held. The alternate and student members are strictly volunteer positions. Applicant must be a resident of Clayton. The Community Services Commission meets the second Thursday of each month at 7-9 p.m. and from time to time may have more than one meeting in a month. Applicants should demonstrate service and dedication to the community. The Commission is an advisory body to the City Council and is
memorized changes suit with a quick wave of Morrison's hand. And you wonder, how did he do that? Morrison's gift of magic didn't happen overnight. He got the bug when he was five years old after seeing a performance of the famous Doug Henning. He began practicing and performing for family, Rotary clubs or for whomever walked in the front door. When he was in fourth grade, his knack for entertaining switched to guitar playing and his passion for magic didn't resurface until he was in his 20's. He recalls that his girlfriend (now his wife), who was a Church youth director, asked Morrison to help her with one of her lessons, and he responsible for recommending user fees and policies for use of City facilities and sponsored community activities. The Commission also helps coordinate the 4th of July celebration, Clayton CleansUp Days and the Years Eve celebration. How to apply: Pick up an application for either position in person at
used magic to get the message across to the students. The reaction from the kids immediately rekindled his love for performing magic, and Morrison moved full speed ahead towards a career as a magician. He practiced eight hours a day and included magic in his daytime sales job. His clients loved it and he perfected his skills. He was once asked by his boss at ADP Payroll Services, “where do you see yourself in five years?” Morrison replied, "as a full time magician." His decision to do just that came on September 11, 2001 when he was on a cruise. "I quit my job when I came back," he said. “I figured, life is too short, you might as well be doing what you want to be doing." Morrison devotes all of his time today to his career in magic. He performs, competes, studies and markets himself, and hopes to direct his talents to the next level…as one of the top trade show magicians. He's a new member of the Academy of Magical Arts and served for two years as Vice President of the Society of American Magicians. He hobnobs with the best in the business like Eugene Burger and Jeff McBride, and hopes to perform at the Magic Castle in Los Angeles, the premier magic venue known to magicians all over the world. He's performed at the prestigious Bohemian Grove on the Russian River in Sonoma County and in venues throughout the Bay Area. And wherever he performs, his goal is to engage the audience. "Audience's have to like you first and then they can enjoy the show," says Morrison. He's in constant demand by corporations for his stage and strolling routines, but he lights up when he talks about his performances
for children. In seven months, he'll get his share of performing for the younger set. Morrison
and his wife, Dawn, are expecting their first child in December.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 21, 2004
Hikers’ Haven
Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve Robert Sibley Regional Preserve (named for Robert Sibley, former Director and President of East Bay Regional Park District) is a 660-acre park made up of volcanic dikes, lava flows, mudflows and many other examples of
people from all over the state you ask? The stories of the "Sibley Mazes" include construction by a local psychic and sculptor, while others believe witches and warlocks conjured up the mazes. Oddly enough, the fact remains that not even
Photo courtesy Kevin Parker
MOST OF THE SIBLEY MAZES are "Cretan” or classical type mazes
the extinct volcanoes that once dominated this area. This park provides a network of hiking trails, picture book views of surrounding landscapes and even the extinct Trailhead: Sibley Staging Area Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 2 to 3 miles (depending on number of mazes viewed) Getting There: Follow Highway 24 to Oakland. Exit Fish Ranch Road. Left on Grizzly Peak Blvd. Left on Skyline Blvd. Immediate left into Sibley Staging Area. Round Top Volcano. However, I believe there is something else found within the boundaries of Sibley that attracts a steady flow of visitors year round. What could bring hordes of
the East Bay Regional Park District knows who constructed them. Park policy actually forbids any rearranging of nature, and the mazes are undisturbed. There are at least five mazes, however, many of them seem to disappear and then reappear in various spots throughout the park. I located five mazes during our journey through the park, but I am certain that more of these mazes lay hidden awaiting discovery. The mazes themselves are a gathering place of many groups of hikers, bikers, curious folks, miracle seekers, spiritual groups, healers, psychics and even dogs. We did not witness any supernatural activities while in the park, but I will admit feeling a certain "energy" in the areas surrounding the mazes. The Sibley Mazes are simply made labyrinths, marked out with rocks less than one foot high and a single path which winds its way to the cen-
ter and then out again. Most range from 50 to 100 feet in diameter. Each maze is set up so that you have to walk the entire maze before you reach the center. You must also do the same when exiting the mazes. At this time of year, the earth tone colors of the worn footpaths contrast the greens of the native foliage and grays of the rocks producing an amazing gamut of colors very appealing to the eye. Each maze represents a tweaking of nature, producing both beautiful and fantastic results. To many, the mazes represent a spiritual or healing magnet that draws them back again and again as they silently navigate the rock mazes, paying special attention to never crossing over the stone migraines. No one knows who tends to the mazes, but the rocky sculptures keep clear paths with obvious care and attention to their boundaries. At the center of each maze is an altar space where many visitors leave offerings that the park rangers remove periodically. Most of the Sibley Mazes are "Cretan or classical type mazes," which trace their origins as far back as 1200 BC. The Chinese believed these mazes kept away evil spirits that supposedly only travel in a straight line. People say that the maze is a symbol of life, death, rebirth and spiritual knowledge. I think one commonality holds true, all maze designers like patterns. It is these patterns that delight the
I want to emphasize that the beauty of the Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve itself is enough of a reason to visit the park. The mazes add a bit of unexpected beauty not often found within the boundaries of any East Bay Regional Park. Whether you go for a hike looking to enjoy nature or
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Although the number of crash-related fatalities for children has steadily decreased since 1975, motor vehicle crashes remain one of the leading causes of death for children. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that, on average, six children under the age of 15 years were killed and 721 were injured in crashes everyday in 2002. Sadly, most of these deaths could have been prevented. Half of all children under age 15 killed in crashes were completely unrestrained. Although all 50 states currently have some form of child restraint laws, parents and drivers need to make sure children are correctly restrained every time they get in the car. Here are some tips to help keep kids safe in vehicles. All children 12 and under should ride in the back seat of the vehicle appropriately restrained. NHTSA recommends that newborn infants and children who are at least one-year old and weigh 20 pounds or less should ride rear-facing in an
infant or convertible seat. Toddlers over one year old and between 20 and 40 pounds should ride forward-facing in a convertible or combination seat. Young children over 40 pounds or under four feet nine inches, and up to at least eight years of age should ride in a belt-positioning booster seat with a lap and shoulder seat belt. Older children over eight years old, or taller than four feet nine inches, should use a lap and shoulder seat belt. All child safety seats should be used and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, as well as the vehicle owner’s manual instructions. Never place a rear-facing infant seat in front of an airbag. Adults are encouraged to be good role models and always buckle up when they get into a car. Seat belts in combination with air bags provide the best protection against injury and death in crashes. For more information about child passenger safety and state laws, please go to State Farm’s Web site at statefarm.com Doug Van Wyck CLU ChFC is State Farm Insurance Agent with offices in downtown Clayton.
Coming up June 5-6 All aboard! for a great event coming up. Clayton Station Shopping Center is hosting a sidewalk sale with participating merchants on June 5 and 6 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There will be plenty of sales and savings, plus refreshments, entertainment, balloons and some surprises. Mark your calendars and bring the whole family for a fun day at Clayton Station Shopping Center at Clayton Road and Kirker Pass
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senses and prove that nature can take on so many types of beauty. The largest of the mazes is set down in an abandoned quarry pit. This is by far the biggest and most popular maze because it is one of the easiest to locate within the park. The second maze is set in the hill above, and a third one takes a little exploring. Hiking for 15 minutes or so from the abandoned quarry pit, you discover a fourth heart-shaped maze, hidden deep in a ravine. On my last trip to Sibley I discovered a fifth maze located between Round Top Trail and Round Top Peak (el. 1763). All five of these mazes represent a place where many go to pray, cleanse, purify, heal or just observe. Some may be on a walking pilgrimage, while others are on a spiritual journey. But whatever these mazes offer, it most likely exists on many different levels. Each seeker finds what they came looking for.
whether you're looking for a spiritual journey, this place has something to offer everyone. For more information, call (510) 562-PARK or www.ebparks.org/parks/sibley.htm Get out there and enjoy! Send comments/ideas to Kevin at kaypee@sbcglobal.net.
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May 21, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 19
Boiled, broiled or fried, shrimp is far and away America’s favorite seafood Is there any doubt that America’s favorite seafood is shrimp? Maybe you recall Forrest Gump, a fictional character Tom Hanks introduced on screen about 10 years ago. He walked around for much of the movie espousing hundreds of ways to prepare shrimp. Closely related to crabs, crayfish and lobster, these crustaceans have a soft body capped by a large pointed head and nearly innumerable legs. Fortunately, most of us buy shrimp without their heads attached. The Alaskan shrimp leads an interesting lifestyle— most are born as males and then transform into females for the rest of their lives. Females carry their eggs until they hatch— from as few as one or two hundred up to 4,000. Virtually 90 percent of the shrimp sold in the U.S. is farm raised with the balance caught
by trawlers. Shrimp farming is widespread in tropical countries where it is part of the “blue revolution”(aquaculture) in lessdeveloped countries around the world. Both governments and environmentalists struggle to balance the need for healthy protein sources and with the income it takes to keep waterways clean and disease free. Shrimp gets its name from the Middle English shrimpe, meaning to contract or wrinkle up (in Middle Low German, schrempen and Old Norse, skorpna.) Sellers classify them by
size and number. For instance, large shrimp commonly known as 16-20-count meaning there
are 16 to 20 shrimp per pound. Prawns, by the way, aren’t technically shrimp. These decapod
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dark vein. Cutting along the back of the shrimp and removing the vein is desirable, although chefs often cook shrimp in the shell, which gives the meat a bit more flavor. A fine protein source, shrimp has about 90 calories per 3-oz. serving, virtually no carbohydrates and little fat. Broiling, boiling, pan-frying and deepfrying are typically the methods used to cook shrimp; the key is to avoid overcooking them. Below are some favorite recipes for main dishes and soup.
CLASSIC SHRIMP SCAMPI 1 lb. medium shrimp, shelled and deveined 3 Tbsp butter 1 Tbsp canola or olive oil 2 Tbsp minced green or yellow onion 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbsp. lemon juice 2 Tbsp. dry white wine Salt, pepper to taste Parsley or parmesan cheese for garnish Melt butter with the oil in a large frying pan. Add onions, garlic, lemon juice and wine, and cook until bubbling. Add shrimp and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until they turn pink. Serve over pasta or in a separate ramekin and top with grated parmesan cheese. TEQUILA SHRIMP 1 lb. med. or large shrimp, shelled and deveined ¼ c. tequila ¼ c. lime juice ¼ tsp. salt
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crustaceans are a little larger and they still make for fine eating. There are more than 2,000 species of s h r i m p . Americans know them as white, tiger, pink and brown, but they all turn pink when cooked. Some people find Asian tiger shrimp to be bland and tough, while white shrimp from Central and S o u t h America tastes the sweetest and firmest. Chinese white shrimp can be mushy and watery. Rarely seen here on the West Coast, brown shrimp is popular in the Southeast, where some of the iodine flavors seep through into the final dish. It’s best to ask the retailer the country of origin when purchasing shrimp. Shrimp is very perishable. Since shrimp freezes and defrosts well (most are IQF, individually quick-frozen before importation to the United States), there’s little reason to buy fresh shrimp. To prepare shrimp, pull off the tail and then gently remove the shell around the body. Along the outer curve of the body is a
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Local Address Local Address 925-603-7555 Local Address 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 Local Address Local Address Local Address 4375 Clayton Rd-near Treat Local Address Local Address Local Address 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 same center asLocal Starbucks Localshopping Address Address 000-000-0000 Local Address 000-000-0000 000-000-0000 Local Address000-000-0000 Local Address Local Address Local Address Local Address
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*Offer based on first visit enrollment, minimum 12 mo. c.d. program. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations through 7/11
The Diamonds (Thursday) The Hypnosis Company (Fri & Sat) Thursday
Saturday
Molly Hatchet (Friday)
Carnival Closes at Midnight $3 off regular price admission with your Student I.D. Card and Unlimited Rides Wristbands $9.00 ($9 Savings) when purchased between 7-9:30 pm. Valid until close of the Fair Sat. night only.
Hispanic Day
Sunday
sponsored by Diablo Beverage of Contra Costa
FOR
THOUGHT
¼ tsp. cayenne pepper dash Tabasco sauce 1 Tbsp. olive or canola oil Marinate shrimp in tequila, lime juice, salt, pepper and Tabasco sauce for an hour or overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat skillet with oil, add drained shrimp and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink. Serve in warmed tortillas with guacamole and shredded lettuce, or in fajitas with grilled onions and peppers.
THAI FISH SOUP 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbsp. grated fresh ginger 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced 2 Tbsp. canola or olive oil ¼ c. ground dried shrimp 4 Roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped ¼ c. peanut or cashew butter 2 c. chicken stock 2 c. coconut milk ¼ c. fresh lime juice 1 lb. cooked peeled shrimp 1 lb. meaty fish fillets (mahi mahi, halibut) ¼ c chopped cilantro salt, pepper and Tabasco sauce to taste Heat oil in skillet and add onion, chilis, garlic and ginger. Cook until vegetables are soft. Add tomatoes, ground shrimp, and nut butter. Add chicken stock slowly, blending well. Add coconut milk and lime juice, and simmer about 30 minutes to thicken slightly. Meanwhile, poach the fish and flake into serving bowls. Divide the cooked shrimp among the bowls. Top with the soup and garnish with cilantro. Serves 6-8. Note: dried ground shrimp is in Asian and Mexican food stores; I’ve also found it at Food for Less on Clayton Road. Linda Wyner is an attorney in Walnut Creek by day, and an accomplished chef and “foodie” by choice. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com
4th o f J uly V olunteers U rgently N eeded
The Commission
Friday
Grad Nite
FOOD
The Clayton Fourth of July celebration has been an annual event for more than 25 years. This year the event is organized by the Clayton Community Services Commission.
50's Nite, 62 & over - Free Admission Kids Day, 12 & under - Free Admission
LINDA WYNER
The Smokin' Armadillos (Saturday)
urgently y need ds volunteers to
help with the traditional parade, the food and crafts vendors, and Kiddieland. About 100 volunteers in various capacities are needed to pull off the event. To date, there are fewer than 20 . “It’s probably going to be a scaled-back event if we don’t get enough volunteers in a very short period of time. We may just do the parade. But even the parade requires over 50 volunteers,” said Laura Hoffmeister, assistant to the city manager. Time is running out. If you can volunteer please call Rhonda Basore, City Clerk, 673-7304. Want to be in the parade? Participant guidelines and application are online at cityofclayton.org. Deadline for filing is June 19.
Antioch-Oakley
Page 20
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 21, 2004
Red tailed hawk is really a ‘nice guy’ I hope you are enjoying length with a wingspan of the abundant bird activity 46–58 inches. The brown around town this spring. It’s feathering on the head breeding time and birds are extends part way down its nesting everywhere. I saw a chest, looking like a hood few fledglings (baby birds) and is it’s best identifier. Its at the feeders with their par- flight feathers on its back are ents. It’s pretty comical a dark-brown color and if when the young birds are at observed when flying overthe feeder but wait for a par- head, has a wide, dark-colored band on the trailing ent to feed them. One early morning a few edge of the underside of its weeks ago, I witnessed a wings. An interesting characmale Red Tail Hawk serve teristic of the Swainsons his mate breakfast in bed. He Hawk is that it travels the made a graceful landing on longest migrating distance of the side of the nest, and then any North American bird of gave over his catch of the prey. In the fall it will morning, a delectable little migrate to Argentina and mouse, which she took in her other locations in South beak, and then flew to a tree nearby and enjoyed while he stayed in the nest with the young ones. What a nice guy. I have seen two little fluffy ones in the nest stretching their wings, so watch for them to be out flying with their parents around city hall. RED TAILED HAWK On the subject of hawks, I recently America. Another local hawk, very made a trip to the Lindsey Wildlife Museum similar to the Swainsons, is Emergency Hospital with a the Coopers Hawk, although Swainsons Hawk we found it is a bit smaller, being about injured on our deck. The 14-20 inches in length. The Swainsons Hawk is approxi- Coopers Hawk is a grayishmately 18–22 inches in blue color while the under
as rusty hinges, school bells, has taken classes at Wild bird walks. You can email her whistling, and dogs barking. Birds Unlimited and has fre- at Each imitation is repeated quently participated in local Cathie@claytonpioneer.com. two or three times, then another song starts all in rapid succession. It is common for an individual bird to have as many as 25-30 songs Sat. June 5, 9-4 in its repertoire. Scientists found that female mockingat New Location birds love the males that make the most different sounds. Unmated male mockingbirds sing more than 6000 Main Street, Clayton mated ones and are the only (925) 673-0300 ones to sing all night long. Free 5 min. chair Raffle Cathie Gernhardt has massage provided by 1st prize - Free Haircuts for a year! lived in Clayton for the past Clayton Mind & 2nd prize - Gift Basket of Scruples Products 38 years. Bird watching is Body Connections 3rd prize - 30 minute massage at Clayton Mind & Body one of her greatest joys. She
Grand Opening
CATHIE
GERNHARDT
FOR THE BIRDS parts are white and have horizontal stripes. The head is like a black hat and there are three horizontal black stripes running across the tail. Both of these hawks prey on smaller birds and are likely to go after birds at your feeders. If you’re wondering about those crazy birds that keep singing all night long, meet the Mockingbird. It is about ten inches in length, including its relatively long tail, and has a light gray coat with a whitish underside with its wings and tail being a darker gray with white patches. It’s thought the song of the mockingbird is, in fact, a medley of the calls of many other birds. They have also been known to imitate other sounds they hear such
Hair by Jim
Toys, Games and More Your Clayton toy store in the Clayton Station Shopping Center
673-8634
ty l a i c e Sp toys and s game
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20% off Must present coupon exp. June 30, 2004
at discou nt prices Toys, Games and More
EVERYTHINinGthe store
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May 21, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 21
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Page 22
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
o, we're not talking about the language of France. We're referring to what many people throughout the Clayton Valley area are talking about: Lynne French. As one of the area's leading real estate professionals, she's changing the way people look at buying or selling homes.
May 21, 2004
N
With an unsurpassed knowledge of the local home market and a dedicated approach to her clients' unique needs, when people around here speak
French, they are talking about the best real estate service you can get in the Clayton Valley area. Give Lynne French and her team a call today and discover the language of success. You'll be glad you did!
When you call Lynne French, be sure to request a free copy of her special report "Squeezing Every Last Dollar From Your Home Sale." This valuable information can save you precious time and money as you prepare to make your move.
(925) 672-8787 www.LynneFrench.com Lynne@LynneFrench.com
6200-E Center St. 1801 N. California Blvd.
Clayton, CA 94517 Walnut Creek, CA 94596
GEORGE VUJNOVICH,
Broker
(925) 672-4433
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517 georgevujnovich.com
VINEYARD/HORSE PROPERTY
WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
REGENCY MEADOWS
Vinyard/horse property. Spectacular 4-year old, 1-story, contemporary lodge-style home. 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, apx. 3,416sf, 3 car garage + rv & more parking. Enormous great room features a dramatic custom fireplace, 16" tile floors & soaring vaulted beam ceiling. Romantic master suite with fireplace, jetted tub & sitting patio with views. Apx. 1.00 acre lot boasts a vineyard & offers a shaded horse area surrounded by majestic Heritage oaks. An irreplaceable must see setting! $999,000
JUST LISTED! Absolutely one of Oakhurst's best view lots! Commanding panoramic views encompass an unobstructed landscape from Mt. Diablo all the way to the Delta. Highly desirable & rare 1 story "Keller" model. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, apx. 2,053sf, 2 car garage & inside laundry. Upgraded marble tile entry with mirrored art/plant nook. Formal dining room. Gourmet kitchen with tile counters, island & an abundance of oak cabinets. Family room with vaulted ceiling & upgraded marble tile fireplace. Large master suite with retreat. Situated on a quiet court with no side or rear neighbors. Extremely private lot with deck overlooks the 10th hole of the golf course & awe-inspiring views. $700,000
JUST LISTED. Well maintained Mediterranean. In a quiet court setting with Mt. Diablo views! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, apx. 2,390sf, 3 car garage with workshop area & inside laundry. Step-down living room looks out to Mt. Diablo! Formal dining room with Tuscan column. Gourmet kitchen with new Laminate "wood" floors, tile counters, island & a large bay window eating nook. Family room with brick fireplace & recess for entertainment center. Spacious master suite. Rear yard offers a deck with built-in bench seating & planter boxes, aggregate walkway & paver patio, various lawn areas, fruit trees & a raised vegetable garden. $699,500
DIABLO RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
REGENCY MEADOWS
BLACK DIAMOND AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
ING D N PE
JUST LISTED. Gorgeous end unit on a prime golf course lot. Backs to 7th fairway with wooded & rolling hill views. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, apx. 1,595sf, attached 2 car garage & inside laundry. Light & bright with neutral décor. Formal dining area. Two-way tile fireplace separates living room & family room. Upgraded tile floors in entry, kitchen & family room. Master suite overlooks fairway & hills. Cozy patio offers absolute privacy. Within walking distance to community pool & spa. $435,000
Mediterranean Beauty with Mt. Diablo views located at the end of a cul-de-sac! 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, apx. 2,400sf, 3 car garage with workshop/storage + rv parking. Expanded floor plan features an upstairs bonus room/bedroom with its own 1/2 bath & multiple skylights! Beautifully maintained with neutral décor. New carpet & laminate floors throughout! Gourmet kitchen with tile counters, laminate floors & stainless steel appliances. Master suite offers a sitting area looking out to Mt. Diablo. Lot features a deck, brick trimmed patio & huge spa! $699,900
ING D N PE
Fantastic prime golf course view lot backs to 11th hole. Boasting sweeping wooded, fairway & Mt. Diablo views! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Upgraded gleaming hardwood floors & plantation shutters throughout 1st floor. Elegant living room with soaring vaulted beam ceiling & marble fireplace. Gourmet kitchen features upgraded slab granite counters, separate eating area & a large pantry with upgraded frosted glass panel door. Spacious master suite offers gorgeous views. Rear yard features an aggregate patio, trellis covered deck & a spectacular array of roses! $575,000
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
Spectacular "Belvedere" model on a prime view lot! 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,911sf, & a 4 car garage with workshop area, extensive built-in storage & workbench + rv/boat storage in huge paved side yard! Bedroom & full bath downstairs. Living room with fireplace. Formal dining room. Enormous great room with stacked stone two-way fireplace, walk-around bar, wired for surround sound with built-in speakers. Sunning master suite features a retreat & balcony offering sweeping views. Gourmet kitchen with upgraded tile counters, island, floor, dual motorized skylights & spacious pantry! Huge level view lot overlooks City, Carquinez Strait, surrounding hills & ridgeline. Professionally landscaped featuring custom patio, large lawn area, an assortment of colorful flowers & ornamentals, fountain room for an rv+boat & still plenty of room for a pool too! $1,125,000
FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
ING D N PE
Exquisite "Serenade" model on a prime view lot overlooking golf course, hills, valley to Delta & beyond! 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, apx. 3,079sf & 3 car garage. Bedroom & bath on main level. Immaculate & upgraded throughout: Cherry wood cabinets, marble floors, upgraded lighting package, hardware, window trim & plantation shutters. Gourmet kitchen with granite tile counters & island. Great room features a brick fireplace with raised hearth & custom built-in media center. Romantic master suite with jetted tub & balcony offering panoramic views. Professionally landscaped level lot with lush lawn, an assortment of flowers & ornamentals, patio & views! $850,000