In Th is Iss ue
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May 24, 2013
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Eagles Debra and Steve Gonsalves have landed in CV Hall of Fame JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
JULIE PIERCE
MAYOR’S CORNER
Rock ‘n roll into summer at The Grove School is almost out and we are off to another spectacular summer in Clayton. The farmers market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, and we have nine more concerts in our “Concerts in The Grove” series. Saturday evening is our next Concert in The Grove with Cover 2 Cover, a high-energy dance band with a variety of musical styles spanning five decades. They are one of the top cover bands in the Bay Area. Our first concert was a great success. Since the state’s dissolution of Redevelopment agencies, our concerts are now 100
See Mayor, page 13
Jason Rogers photo
DAUGHTERS KELLI DUPELL (LEFT) AND JENNIFER GONSALVES HERRERA (RIGHT) WERE ON HAND to enjoy the induction of their parents Debra and Steve Gonsalves to the Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame last Saturday evening at Centre Concord. All of the Gonsalves clan are graduates of Clayton Valley. The work for the school and in the community that Steve and Debra Gonsalves have done over the years was recognized at the dinner which also honored Eagle coaches, teams and athletes dating back to the 1960s.
The Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame inducted its third class last Saturday evening at a packed Centre Concord. Athletes, teams and coaches dating from the 1960s to the end of the millennium were lauded for their accomplishments on the field, court, track and pool. Yet none of the newlyenshrined Hall of Famers has had a greater impact on the school over the past four decades than Debra and Steve Gonsalves, who are this year’s Community/ Leadership honorees. Steve Gonsalves still has his name on the Dan Della Gym wall for the school record of 677 career rebounds while playing for legendary basketball coach Bruce Iversen from 1968 to 1971. It was during his high school days that the all-league basketball star, who also played on the football and golf teams, met and fell in love with cheerleader Debra Culum.
See Hall of Fame, pg 10
Community clubs Budgets may drive out crossing guards honor local graduates with scholarships PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer
With the end of school fast approaching, there are a lot of happy kids in and around Clayton. And none are happier than the handful of high school seniors receiving scholarships from local businesses and organizations. CLAYTON BUSINESS & COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Since its inception, the CBCA Scholarship program has awarded more than $200,000 in college scholarships to graduating seniors from Clayton. This
year the CBCA awarded a total of $25,000 in college scholarships to six graduating seniors from Clayton Valley Charter High School and one from Berean Christian High School. Twenty-five applications were received for three types of scholarships: Academic, Arts & Music, and Community Service. Thirteen students were interviewed. Michael Kerr of CVCHS was awarded a $5,000 Academic scholarship because of his
See Scholars, page 8
FRONT ROW: CBCA SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS Lauren Valory, Demi DiQuattro, Jason Fernandes; Back row: CBCA member David Johnson, grads Joshua Warzecha and Nicholas Bazan and CBCA member, Kerry Quinn.
What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Ask Alyssa (NEW) . . . . . . . .9
The streets of downtown Clayton are relatively safe, but no more so than between 7:30 and 8:15 a.m. and 2:30 and 3:15 weekdays. That’s when crossing guard Ben Ross is on the job, manning the crosswalk at Center and Oak Streets. Don’t even try to speed or inch your way into the crosswalk – Ben’s loud, New York yell will have you quivering at your steering wheel. This isn’t just a lark for Ross – it’s his job, and one he takes quite seriously. “At nights they belong to their parents, and during the day they belong to their teachers, but when they are crossing the streets, they belong to me.” Ross is Clayton’s one and only crossing guard, one of only a few paid by the Mt. Diablo Unified School District, and part of a dying breed, if other nearby cities are any indication. Most cities in MDUSD have picked up the bill for crossing guards, but tight fiscal budgets are making that tougher to do. For the past four years, Walnut Creek City Council has put their funding of crossing guards on the chopping block, only to be saved at the last minute with desperate pleas from parents. Concord hasn’t been so lucky, electing do away
Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Community Calendar . . . . .14 CVCHS Reporter . . . . . . . . .9 Design and Décor . . . . . . . .16
NO PLACE IN CLAYTON IS SAFER THAN THE CORNER OF OAK AND CENTER STREETS before and after school when crossing guard, Ben Ross, takes charge of the intersection.
with the $45,000 annual expense it pays to keep school crossing guards on the job, and replace them with volunteers trained by Concord Police officers. It’s a tough decision, and one Concord Councilman Edi Birsan isn’t happy with. “The policy of training locals is just in the first year of phase in,” he says. “My concern is that these sort of things have a high drop-out rate and I do not want us to wind up with schools without coverage.” He says that he would like to keep the funds in the city budget, “at least till the whole See Crossing Guard, page 2
Directory of Advertisers . . . . .5 Fashion Over 50 . . . . . . . . .16 Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Food for Thought . . . . . . . .15 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . .17
Clayton remembers the fallen The community is called once again to gather on Memorial Day to remember those in the armed forces who gave their lives in the line of duty. There will be special remembrances of those from Contra Costa County who have lost their lives on the battlefields of The Global War on Terror since 9-11. Services will begin with an over flight by a Viet Nam Huey helicopter at 10 a.m. on May 27 at the VFW flagpole at the west end of Main Street.
Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 PHMS Reporter . . . . . . . . . .9 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Speaking of Sports . . . . . . .12 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
The program lasts about an hour and includes music, poetry and speeches.
Steve Pierce
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Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 24, 2013
Around Town Bedecarré honored for KidFest and Concord Cup
Photo courtesy City of Concord
JAY BEDECARRÉ AND CONCORD MAYOR DAN HELIX
Crossing Guard,
Local Girl Scouts cross the bridge
Long-time Clayton resident Jay Bedecarré (left) was presented with a proclamation from Concord Mayor Dan Helix at last week’s Concord City Council meeting declaring May 25-27 as Bay Area KidFest Days in Concord. Bedecarré also accepted a second plaque proclaiming May 18-19, as Concord Cup Days in Concord commemorating the 20th annual youth soccer tournament that brought teams to the area from all over California.
CASSIDY BAUMANN, SOPHIA ZUNIGA MILLER, Jayna Regehr, Chloe Pearson, Sydney Kupsh, Madeline Schmitt, Piper Christensen, Karen Christensen (leader) of Troop 31227 gathered at the lookout on the Sausalito side of the Golden Gate Bridge.
from page 1
Several troops from the Diablo Shadows Girl Scout Service Unit of Concord/Clayton participated in the 32nd Annual Girl Scout Golden Gate Bridging on Saturday, May 11. The Girl Scouts crossed the bridge as part of a day-long event at San Francisco’s Presidio. Bridging is a traditional Girl Scout celebration of accomplishments where girls make the transition from the Junior program level to the Cadette program level. More than 5,100 Girl Scouts from a record-setting eight states participated.
Local sci-fi writers to host book signing
Winships on the Wall
Local science fiction writers, Jay Hartlove and Harald Hansen, will read from their new novels at a fundraiser book signing at Cup ‘O Jo Coffee House on Main Street on June 1 from 4-6 p.m. Jay will read from his upcoming novel “Daughter
Cell,” the sequel to “The Chosen.” Harald will read from his newly released “The Ghosts of the Multiverse.” Net proceeds from book sales will go to CVCHS, and additional donations will be welcome. Wine and cheese will be catered as well as the usual fine coffees and teas.
Clayton residents April and Bruce Winship packed the Pioneer along on a trip to China in early spring. April says, “Our trip was amazing. China is interesting on many levels: culturally, historically and politically. The Great Wall was incredible.” It was their first trip to Asia and they would go back again.
LEADER JEN ARROWSMITH, Shayla Kaplan, Aynsley Bryd, Abbie Henzie, Isabella Samardzic, Lexie Solari, Christina Muller, Tess Beckon, Mariah McCloskey and Siena Rassushin of Troop 32408 bundled up for their walk on the Golden Gate Bridge. HARALD HANSEN, CHRISTINA JOSEPHINE AND JAY HARTLOVE
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thing is up and running for a year or two city-wide.” Many of the Concord schools affected by the phasing out of paid crossing guards have taken matters into their own hands. At Ayers Elementary School, a parent volunteer took the helm and became trained by CPD, and in turn trained other parents. At Cambridge and Meadow Homes Elementary School, parents recently started a “Walking School Bus” program. Parent volunteers walk students in a formation that resembles a school bus along eight different routes to Meadow Homes Elementary. In 2010, six people under the age of 16 were killed or injured while walking in Concord, according to the Office of Traffic Safety. Still, any accident is one too many for Ross. “When I was growing up in New York, I saw a child dart into the street and killed by a coal truck,” he said. “It’s stuck with me ever since.” Despite his gruff exterior, most of Ross’ “young goats” – as he calls the kids who cross on their way to and from school – adore him. He has been known to stay until nightfall, without pay, if some kids are left playing at the foot of School Hill and parents are late in picking them up. “I’m not going to let anyone be left alone,” he says. Suddenly, some eager young boys go jogging across the street. “Hey!” Ross yells. “This is a crosswalk, not a cross-run.” They immediately slow down, toss Ross a grin, and head home, slower – but safe.
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May 24, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
s t r e c n o C The G rove
All in the family at County Fair PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer
Although great musical collaborations have been born in many ways, having wisdom teeth extracted isn’t usually one of them. But when Concord teen Alex Uy had that pesky operation a few years ago, it heralded the beginning of her love of guitar. “I was so bored, I just decided to pick up a guitar and see if I
forms – and records – as SemiPrecious, an act that nails Cold Play, Metallica, Taylor Swift and Leonard Cohen covers in their own distinctive style, along with many of their own compositions. ‘PASSION FOR MUSIC’ “Uncle Dave” – also known as Clayton attorney David DeMordaunt – credits their success to Alex’s talent for music. “I always have loved music, had a passion for it, but it is rare to see
Charter High marching band next year.) She already participates in the CVCHS full orchestra. Oh yeah, and if music weren’t enough, she was just selected as CVCHS’s most outstanding freshman. “I couldn’t ask for a more amazing combination of characteristics, in a collaborator and in a niece,” says the proud uncle. To which Alex replies, “I used to be afraid of you, Uncle Dave.” Not anymore. The collaboration as Semi-Precious has not only brought out the musical talent in both of them, it has brought them closer together. “When I married into this family, I knew I’d have a lot of nieces and nephews,” says DeMordaunt, adding that Alex’s dad, Joseph, has many siblings,
all with kids. It wasn’t until he started working on guitar with Alex that he began noticing something special. “It is such a blessing to get to know her in this way, and to share the music with her,” he says. “I never thought I’d have such a chance.” It’s not every uncle and niece who can say they are working on recording a CD together, or that they will be performing in venues throughout the East Bay.
in
Saturdays 6 to 8:30 p.m.
At the Gazebo in The Grove Set up chairs and blankets on the lawn after 4 p.m.
May 25
Cover 2 Cover A high-energy and fun-filled dance band from the East Bay.
June 8
Tennessee River Band A Tribute to Alabama
FAMILY AFFAIR While it’s all new to Alex, DeMordaunt has had experience, recording five CDs of original music throughout the years. He taught himself guitar while in See Singing
e
June 22
Diamond Dave Dave Hosley covers the classics of Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Justin Timberlake and even Lady Gaga
July 6
Duo, page 6
Livin' In The USA A Cross-Country Music Trip: This fully themed and costumed "all hits" cover band
July 20
The Chicago Tribute Authority This upbeat tribute band plays the music of the greatest hit bands of the last 45 years.
August 3 Live by the Groove Enjoy the sounds of your favorite music from the 70s, 80s and 90s.
August 17 Flashback Six-piece band featuring hits from big band/swing, early rock 'n' roll, Motown/soul, R&B/funk, classic rock, disco and country.
August 31 Mixed Nuts
CLAYTON
DUO,
Alex Uy and her uncle, Dave DeMordaunt, will appear at the County Fair, 4:30-5:15 p.m. on May 30.
could play,” says Alex, now 15. Despite the fact that she was already a proficient pianist, she quickly realized she needed help. So she called on her Uncle Dave, a music aficionado, recording artist and mentor extraordinaire. The collaboration has been more than either could have imagined, as the duo now per-
the same thing in someone so young. She is a musical force in and of itself.” Alex, whose soft-spoken demeanor hides a beautiful voice and natural stage presence, seems surprised by her uncle’s praise. She shouldn’t be, with her experience on piano, violin and piccolo (she will play in the Clayton Valley
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 24, 2013
KidFest will be a monkey’s uncle this year GARY CARR Special to the Pioneer
KidFest is back. With dozens of giant inflatables for little kids to bounce on and crawl through and a new zip line ride that lets festival-goers zoom three stories above the action below, there is something for the youngster in all of us. All this, and baboons, too. One of Northern California’s favorite annual family institutions, family-friendly Bay Area KidFest, returns to Concord on Memorial Day Weekend for its 24th year with more attractions than ever. KidFest brings three days of family fun from 10 a.m.
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to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Monday, May 25-27 at Mt. Diablo High School, 2450 Grant Street in Downtown Concord. The performance stage features the first Concord appearance of San Francisco’s exciting Velocity Circus, presenting “Monkeys in Space,” a spectacle sure to please kids of all ages. These “monkeys” are rollerskaters and acrobats in monkey costumes. The roll and bounce through a story of good health, with Queen Green pitted against the evil King Cavity. There will be three performances daily at 1, 3 and 5 p.m. on the main stage. And baboons? No costuming here – these are the real thing, performing with trainer
‘WILD ABOUT MONKEYS’ IS A FEATURE at KidFest. The trained baboons appear every day at noon, 2, and 4 p.m
Kevin Keith in “Wild about Monkeys,” the only traveling animal exhibition that features trained baboons. Training baboons is Keith’s
specialty. When a movie producer needs a performing baboon, chances are Keith will get the call.
See KidFest, page 9
Amgen Tour races by Clayton on way to summit
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ALTHOUGH DOWNTOWN CLAYTON WAS NOT ON THE AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA this year, the race did at least go through our ZIP code. Stage 7 of the Tour began in Livermore and climbed north up and over Morgan Territory Road before making the grueling 3,865 ft. climb up Mt. Diablo to the summit. In what has been described as “one of the greatest climbs ever in American cycling,” Leopold König passed tour leader Tejay van Garderen, who won the overall race in Sunday’s finish in Santa Rosa. Clayton’s Jennifer Jay followed the Stage 7 race for the Pioneer. See more of her photos on the Clayton Pioneer’s Facebook page.
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May 24, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Fourth of July parade looking for volunteers P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517 TAMARA
R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers
AND
TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration S TAFF W RITERS : Denisen Hartlove, Pam Wiesendanger, Peggy Spear
We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse
PIONEER INFO CONTACT US Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send Church News to churchnews@claytonpioneer.com
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CLASSIFIEDS Classified rates per insertion: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 each additional word Non-profit: $24 for first 30 words, $.20 each additional word To place your classified ad over the phone, call the office at (925) 6720500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Or, you may fax your typewritten ad and credit card information to (925) 672-6580. All classifieds must be paid for in advance by credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Clayton Pioneer
reserves the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. 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 Website. Attach your photo to the form. Make sure the image size you are about to send is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. The only format we accept is JPG. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on our Website are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 250 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter in a Word document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.
Who doesn’t love Clayton’s annual Fourth of July Parade? The downtown comes alive with red, white and blue celebrating our nation’s independence. With floats, bands, civic participants and even a Kiddie Parade – featuring the community’s children and youth with their decorated wagons, strollers, scooters, bikes and tricycles, and sometimes even the faithful family dog – it is a parade in true Americana tradition. This year’s Master of Ceremonies will be Carl “CW” Wolfe. To keep the parade going, organizers are looking for volunteers and donations. Most of the help is needed the day of the parade in the following areas: Barricade and street closure set up (early morning) Decorations Parking control Crowd control Parade Line-up Parade flow control Clean-up If you or your organization can help anytime between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, contact Clayton City Clerk Laci Jackson at 925-673-7304 or email her at ljackson@ci.clayton.ca.us. The parade also needs funding. Tax deductible donations may be made to the Clayton Fourth of July Parade, City of Clayton, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton CA 94517. TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PARADE Anyone interested in being in the main parade (not the Kiddie Parade) as an entrant or organization must submit an application form to the Fourth of July Committee by June 24. Due to the popularity of the parade and limited downtown space, the number of approved entrants may be limited. The committee will review all applications submitted and ensure a variety of entries. To provide a safe environment for parade entrants and spectators, all vehicles must have appropriate liability insurance, a licensed driver, and all entrants are restricted from tossing candy or using water squirt devices. Applications and information is available on the City of Clayton’s website at www.cityofclayton.org. Entrants for the Kiddie Parade do not need an application or pre-approval; merely show up in red, white and blue well before the parade begins at 10 a.m. TRADITIONAL PANCAKE BREAKFAST The annual pre-parade Pancake Breakfast will again be held at Endeavor Hall beginning at 7 a.m., presented by the Clayton Valley Sunrise Rotary Club (nominal cost involved). Come on down and eat, meet and greet, and wave a flag. Remember, the streets will be closed to traffic and parking so park outside of the downtown area and walk in. Or better yet, leave the car at home and walk to the Town Center.
Who or what Ghosts of the Multiverse?
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Islamic radicals descend on San Francisco, deciding whether or not to destroy the city. Navigating through sexual politics, our everyman tries to stop a war and save a family on the verge of falling apart.
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Computer Tech Growing business has position for onsite pro computer tech in Contra Costa County. Must have experience in Windows and Mac OS, network repair and troubleshooting. ComputersUSA! 672-9989. Diablo View Construction is looking for a full-time employee. Requirements: Basic construction knowledge, driver’s license and car, hard working and dependable. Room for advancement. 822-5144. Come join Mazzei Realty! Currently interviewing and hiring new and experienced real estate agents. Call 693-0757 for details. Real Estate Agents Be Successful! Lynne French is expanding and interviewing for a few agents. Call her today 6728787.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Help Fight Hunger Anna Chan – AKA: The Lemon Lady needs your help! Weekly commitment appreciated. For more info and contact numbers, go to thelemonlady.blogspot.com. Clayton Community Library Needs volunteers. Minimum age 13. Minimum commitment is 6 months. Some training provided. Contact: Arlene at 673-9777 or nielsenjanc@aol.com.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 24, 2013
Is it a shut-out for first-time buyers? LangeTwins Family Winery Winemaker’s Dinner Monday June 3, 6:30 p.m. 4-course dinner paired with wines $45 per person Bring your friends! Call for Reservations
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Q. I want to buy my first house. Are first-time buyers being shut out of the housing market? A. Congratulations on getting into the housing market. Don’t give up! In the current market it is difficult for the firsttime buyer. They are the only group of buyers whose share of home purchases have not increased over the last several months. Typically 40 percent of buyers are first-timers. Now they are less than 30 percent. Financing is a problem for them. Half of loans for first timers are FHA loans where they only have to put 3.5 percent down. Consequently, they have to pay mortgage insurance to qualify for such a low down payment. Recently the mortgage insurance premiums have increased many basis points. Some buyers have been priced out. In multiple offer situations, some sellers don’t want to look at an FHA offer. There is steep
agent should demonstrate, perhaps through a letter, as I’ve suggested before, about what a great addition you would be to the neighborhood.
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ANSWERS competition from investors with cash and people with high down payments. These days FHA loans are fine loans. There is much misinformation about them. They can close in a customary timeline and the appraisals are just as good as a conventional loan. As a first-time buyer, try to be patient. Have your realtor present you and your offer in a positive way. Most sellers care about their neighbors. The
Q. Do you think we are experiencing another housing bubble? A. I certainly hope not. My other answer is that I really don’t know. What I worry about is affordability. I know many buyers who have been priced out of the market. Investors are not bidding on as many properties as they use to, either. Prices have gotten too high for them to fix up, resell and make a profit. If the buyer pool gets smaller there will be less demand. If the supply gets larger and the demand gets smaller, prices might go down. If interest rates go up fewer people will be able to afford their loan. Rates can’t stay this low forever. I do expect prices to level off. I hope after that we can resume normal
CLAYTONIANS TRICIA DAUSSES support for Bosnian kids.
AND
es said. “Although in years past we have volunteered our time and services in various areas of Bosnia, this year we are bringing professionals here to train with us in California for three this summer,” she said.
from page 3
DANETTE NELSON garner local
Other local businesses supporting the effort include Ed’s Mudville Grill, Skipolini's and Starbucks. For more information, go to spgcsi.com.
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The Clayton committee for the American Cancer Society’s signature event, Relay For Life, is looking for chairpersons, volunteers, team members, team captains and sponsors for this year’s event. Two important committee positions are open: fight back chair and publicity chair. In addition, volunteers are needed for day-of event activities for before, during and after the relay. The committee also requests business sponsors and donations. Support fundraising efforts now by attending a bake sale and an ice cream social. Both
events take place June 8: Bake sale from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Clayton Station Starbucks, 1536 A Kirker Pass Road, Concord; Ice Cream Social honoring cancer survivors from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Dana Hills Cabana Club, 296 Mountaire Circle, Clayton. Free for survivors; $5 donation fir all others. Relay For Life is a grassroots event intended to pull communities together in order to raise awareness about cancer and to raise funds for research in hopes of finding a cure for cancer and sponsoring programs for cancer victims and their families. Join the 2013 Relay For Life.
Lynne French is the Broker/Owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates and a Clayton resident. in at 6200 Center Street in Clayton. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. E-mail Lynne@LynneFrench.com.
Singing Duo,
Bowling fundraiser helps autistic kids Pins were flying recently when the Clayton Valley Bowl hosted the Bowling for Bosnia fundraiser. Sponsored by the Speech Pathology Group Children’s Services International (SPG:CSI), the event supported the Bosnia Autism Project. “Unfortunately education, treatment and speech and language therapy is often nonexistent for many children who need it most, so our mission has been to ‘teach the teachers’ and provide sustainable aid to children with communication impairments,” says Tricia Dausses, a Clayton resident and member of SPG:CSI. SPG:CSI has collaborated with the Bosnian government since 2009, working both here and abroad to bring educational resources to the country, Dauss-
appreciation, which is 1 to 6 percent a year. The reason we might not have a bubble is because current buyers are qualified for their loans. Money is tight. We don’t have the easy loans we had in the last “hot” market. There is something I have noticed about many people. They seem to think that everything, good or bad, is permanent. If prices are going up they will continue to go up. If prices are going down they think they will be on an ongoing decline. The truth is, nothing is permanent. Everything is temporary. Real estate will never be as black and white as people would want.
Have fun and be part of the team working to bring an end to such a devastating disease. “Less cancer; more birthdays! That’s our goal,” Lorraine Henney, committee member, says. Monthly meetings are held the second Thursday of the month at St. John’s Parish, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. Team captains meet from 6 to 7 p.m. The Relay committee meets from 7 to 8 p.m. The relay runs from 10 a.m. on Aug. 3 to 10 a.m. on Aug. 4 at Clayton Community Park. For more information, please contact Lorraine Henney at 890-6771 or go to relayforlife.org/claytonca.
high school, and played in a variety of “garage” bands. As an adult, he has focused more on songwriting, except for when he played guitar and bass with the Clayton Community Church band. Most recently he was in a Livermore-based heavy metal band, Letters to Ruin, but the band went inactive when their singer moved to Santa Barbara. He won’t have that problem with Alex – at least for three years, when she goes off to college. “Sometimes it hits me that she’ll move on someday,” DeMordaunt says. “The uncle in me is proud, but the musician in me says, ‘hey, wait a minute…’” Luckily for him, music in the Uy clan is a family affair. Alex’s mom, Angelique, often sings with Semi-Precious, and even her brother Cameron – a student at Diablo View Middle School – plays trumpet, and sometimes joins them live on stage. Plus, two of Alex’s best friends from school have been known to help out when they are performing. Even one of Alex’s own songs, “Ferris Wheel,’ was inspired by a story her Uncle Dave told her. As the two dive into the song with their guitars, it is easy to see how music can just strengthen those family ties. Semi Precious will perform at the Contra Costa County Fair, from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. May 30, on the Community Stage. The Contra Costa County Fairgrounds is located at 1201 West 10th Street, Antioch. For more information, go to contracostafair.com or call the Fair Office at 925-757-4400. Semi-Precious will also perform a community concert at 5 p.m. on Sat., July 6, at the First Christian Church of Concord, 3909 Willow Pass Rd. For more about Semi-Precious, visit reverbnation.com/semiprecious.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 7
Concord struggles with budget unknowns: Next public hearing set for June 11 PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer
It’s kind of hard to plan a municipal budget when you don’t have the right numbers, a fact that the Concord City Council members are grappling with as they try to piece together a 2013-14 budget and a 10year financial plan. The culprit is $1.8 billion of “unfunded obligations” – including CalPERS retirement pension costs, unfunded state liabilities, costs associated with the Affordable Care Act and deferred maintenance. According to City Manager Valerie Barone, CalPERS is still working on finalizing the actual costs, and has not given cities any numbers – a fact that did not sit well with most council members.
“I am tired of being scared of the unfunded liability in the closet,” said Councilman Edi Birsan. “We need to set a date.” He asked that a plan be in place by September, even if the city had to use existing CalPERS information. The budget workshop, held at the May 7 meeting, was a grueling affair, as each department made presentations. On the plus side, the $79.2 million was balanced by using $5.38 million in Measure Q funds – the city’s half-cent sales tax. Mayor Dan Helix, who served on the city council three decades ago, remembers a time when the budget process was easier, thanks to revenue sources that flowed directly into city coffers. These days, however, it’s much more complicated. “Working on a municipal
budget is high on my leastfavorite-things to-do list,” he said in a recent op/ed piece in the Contra Costa Times. “Even after a significant reduction in personnel, we struggle with decisions about essential services, curtailing popular programs, outsourcing jobs previously held by city employees, and meeting the basic cost-of-living increases for our employees.” Even though the proposed budget includes increases in fulltime staff, council members were wary, citing the unforeseen costs of pensions and benefits. Barone said it “all balanced out,” as the increased hiring was necessary to just maintain the current level of service, and practical because of the higher price of contract labor and the initiation of the Affordable Care Act, which would likely require
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insurance coverage for even part-time employees. Birsan said he would like to investigate pursuing a new tax initiative after Measure Q runs out in 2016, perhaps a quartercent sales tax that would be palatable to voters but still meet the financial needs of the city. Helix says he also has high hopes for the revenue streams that the development of the Concord Naval Weapons Station will bring in, although that may be a ways down the road. Until then, the city has to adopt a budget for next year. The next budget workshop will be held at the June 11 council meeting, with plans to adopt one by July 1. It just may be created out of monopoly money.
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Rotary seeking host family for Nigerian teen The Rotary Club of Concord and the Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord are sponsoring a youth exchange student from Nigeria for the 2013-14 school year. Grace Ojochogwu is 17 years old, and will be a senior at Clayton Valley Charter High School beginning in August. While Igala is her native language, Grace speaks fluent English. She says she enjoys swimming, and is a member of her school’s cultural and dramatic club, so she is always involved in
dance activities and presentations. She is interested in becoming an airline pilot. Grace will arrive in California in mid-August and will return to her native Nigeria in mid-July, 2014. The Rotary Club of Concord and the Rotary Club of Clayton/Valley Concord Sunrise are looking for volunteer host families to host Grace, each family for a three-and-a-half to four-month period for the fall, winter and spring. Host families come in all shapes and sizes that
might include young children, older children or no children at all. Like other Rotary-sponsored youth exchange students, Grace will be provided a monthly allowance by Rotary. Each year Rotary districts worldwide arrange more than 9,000 international youth exchanges for secondary school students. In addition, Rotary sponsors outbound students ages 15-18 to live abroad in one of 188 countries with Rotary host families, anywhere from a few months to an entire year. If
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 24, 2013
Be mindful that you’re not mindless “In the kind of world we have today, transformation of humanity might well be our only real hope for survival” – Stanislov Grof, Russian psychiatrist
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Transformation is essential in achieving life balance. I am obviously a big fan of transformation in its various forms because I meet people every day trying to make a change. I am very grateful for the opportunity to aid those ready transform themselves into someone they only dreamed to be because I believe somewhere inside they always knew they could and would be. I always ask my clients about their habits and their behaviors. It helps me to identify bad and good habits and how those habits influence their physical behavior. For example, when they don’t sleep enough people get tired. When you’re tired you make bad decisions. Whether it’s what you eat, what you wear, who you talk to – and who you don’t – you are significantly affected by your lack of sleep. You start to become mindless, not present, or even absent-minded. When you decide that sleep
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the maintenance of your daily life, you begin to make changes. If you are mindful, you begin to establish priorities, rules that make sleep paramount to your life. You wake up a bit earlier, and then you begin to go to bed earlier. You might even begin recording those late-night shows, rather than staying up to watch. When you start to plan your routine, you learn to make the most of your waking hours and you enjoy them. So many times I wonder as I go through the day, how mindful am I? How mindless have I let myself become? Every day I use these two themes when working so close, physically and mentally,
with so many different people. Are they mindful of how they move through the world? Are they mindful of how they are holding a weight, or bending their arm? Are they mindful of how they don’t use their knees when they bend? I have found that by asking these questions I get a lot of interesting answers which helps me increase my personal awareness about a great many things. Personal awareness brings this to mind. Take a look at the definitions below and ask yourself which one are you, mindful or mindless? Which would you like to be? Mindless: lacking intelligence or good sense, foolish. Having no intelligent purpose, meaning, or direction. Giving or showing little care to experiences. Mindfulness: the state of active, open attention on the present. When you’re mindful you observe your thoughts and feelings from a distance without judging them bad or good. Instead of letting your life passes you by, mindfulness means living in the moment and awakening to experiences. Being mindful means you notice what is going on in your
present environment and you’re mindful to deal with it. You are identifying traits, not ignoring body signals. Mindfulness meditation is an essential tool. It is basically self-regulation – the ability to maintain function and stability by adapting to change. Ilima Heuerman holds multiple fitness certifications. She trains at Levity Fitness studio in Clayton. Email Ilima at IlimaHeuerman@levityfitness.com
Letter to the Editor Thank you Councilman My family and I want to extend our thanks and appreciation to Jim Diaz for taking the time to attend former police chief Fred Albrecht’s memorial service in San Bernardino He made an eloquent speech about Fred and honorably represented the City of Clayton. - Patty Nelson
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KATRINA SU AND MARYANN HAYES AAUW SCHOLARSHIP
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Scholars, from page 1 straight-A academic performance, excellent essay responses related to his father’s work ethic and his own. As a checker at KMart, Michael laments the limited opportunities that technology such as self-checkout leaves for young people to engage customers and develop interpersonal communication skills. Michael’s own work ethic, grades, and extracurricular activities combined with an impressive interview earned him the top award. He will attend UC Santa Barbara. Another CVCHS senior, Nicholas Bazan, won a $4000 academic scholarship. The committee particularly liked his essay critical of the overarching role social media plays in society. He will attend UC San Diego. CVCHS’s Joshua Warzecha, also a straight-A student, won another $4,000 scholarship for academics. He impressed the committee beyond his academics the sharpness of his interview skills. He will attend Dartmouth College.
Demi DiQuattro, a CVCHS senior, won $3,000 for an art and music scholarship. She plans to major in art at Chico State and to teach it afterwards. Jason Fernandes of CVCHS also won an art and music grant. Despite his superior grades, what impressed the committee was his outstanding leadership in the music program at his school, including Wind Ensemble and being selected as “Drum Major” for the school Marching Band. Lauren Valory, CVCHS, won a $3,000 community scholarship, for her passion for community service, both locally and in Africa. Briana Pearsall, a Berean senior was also awarded a $3,000 community scholarship. Also a straight-A student, she impressed the committee with her missions work, and was the only applicant with a stated goal of majoring in English Education. She plans to attend Biola University.
PETE LAURENCE AND MATT MCCOY WRESTLING SCHOLARSHIP
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN The Clayton Branch of The American Association of University Women (AAUW) presented a $1,000 scholarship to Katrina Su at the Clayton Valley Charter High School Senior Awards dessert night on May 8. Katrina was honored for her academic achievements and for her participation in school groups and community service. She is the treasurer of CVCHS Senior Women, president of the Multicultural Club and the project coordinator of the California Scholarship Federation and is a member of the Key Club and the Interact Club. Her career goal is to be a pediatrician and plans to begin her education studying Public Health at The University of California. CVCHS WRESTLING Each year, Pete Laurence, a local real estate broker and a Clayton Valley High School alum honors a young athlete from the CV wrestling program who exemplifies the qualities
that wrestling brings out: competitiveness, conditioning, enthusiasm, team spirit and good sportsmanship This year’s recipient is Concord resident Matthew McCoy, who is graduating with a 3.8 GPA. He has won the Coaches Award all three years he has wrestled, was chosen as MVP in 2012, and was a three-time captain. He is also an MVP for the CVCHS cross-country team and a volunteer for several community events. He will attend DVC in the fall. CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB The CVWC last year created a Diablo Valley College Scholarship for a woman with financial need, excellent grades, community involvement, and leadership skills who is transferring to a four year college or university in the fall to pursue a degree. The scholarship recipient for 2013 is Lissette Alaniz. She is graduating from DVC this spring and will attend the UC Berkeley in the fall to pursue a degree in architecture.
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May 24, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 9
Teens learn drinking and driving don’t mix Becoming a teenager comes with many benefits. One of the most iconic and sought-after freedoms that comes with maturing is obtaining a drivers license. For a teenager, a license to drive symbolizes independence. However, operating a motor vehicle is a powerful responsibility. Unfortunately, teenagers often abuse this privilege. In fact, car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens. Even worse, around one-third of those crashes are alcohol-related. This grave statistic is precisely why Clayton Valley Charter High School participated in the “Every 15 Minutes” program. On Monday, May 6, and Tuesday, May 7, all ninth graders at Clayton Valley filed into the school’s gymnasium to witness a powerful presentation. School administrators and teachers, police officers, a victim who lost his father to a DUI, and other guest speakers shared their universal advice to students. They explained the life-changing damages that drinking or texting
ROBBIE PARKER
CVCHS REPORTER while driving can cause. All of the speakers placed great importance on not only the effects of alcohol, but also driving while distracted or weary. They explained that distracting activities (like using a cell phone while driving) are not only illegal, but are proven to be just as dangerous and damaging as driving under the effects of a inhibitor. One of the students who attended the presentation, Chris Buzis, was impressed by the power of the presentation. “I feel like this assembly was well-
organized and had a good impact on the freshman class,” he explained. After the event and hearing the grim statistics, Buzis commented, “the statistics are horrible,” and that, “this needs to be taken care of or put under control.” Despite the already-potent message of the assembly, Clayton Valley traditionally participates in an even more thorough and interactive week during “Every 15 Minutes.” In years past, the sound of a heartbeat over the loudspeaker every fifteen minutes signified a death in an alcohol-related accident. Gravestones in the quad, which bore the names of students temporarily removed from school, emulated the sadness caused by the loss of a peer. In previous years, a mock crash constructed on the school field replicated the tragedy of such an accident. Students, covered in fake blood and gore, laid in the remains of a destroyed vehicle scene. Parents, teachers, students and police volunteers all
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performed their activities as if the scenario were real. However, because of the required expenditure and intensity of the scene, CVCHS students only experience the entire program every two years. This school year, CVCHS did not participate in the full program. Yet, even as a simple assembly exclusive to ninth graders, the message remains the same. Many consider the tragedies that result from drunk or distracted drivers an accident. However, engaging in these dangerous activates is no accident – it is a deliberate choice. Thanks to these deterrence programs, the teens at Clayton Valley can recognize the fatal costs caused by irresponsible driving. Maybe “Every 15 Minutes” can soon become “Every 60 Minutes.” By educating teenagers of the consequences, the roads of the future will only be safer..
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Stolen iPod swipes trust away, too Have you ever had something very important stolen from you? Just recently, my iPod was stolen. I even wrote an article all about cell phones, so that should tell you how important my iPod (which I used for texting as a cell phone) was to me. One minute I had it, the next it was gone forever. One of the worst parts for me was losing my pictures, because those are the things you can’t replace. It was like erasing all the memories I had, like none of it ever happened. I have had phones broken before, which led to the pictures disappearing, but to have someone physically wipe away those memories is much worse. And someone thinks they can
JENNIFER HOEHN PHMS REPORTER just take all of that from me, without consequences. Well, they are wrong. It’s their life that they are destroying. They probably don’t realize what they are doing to me, or really, to themselves. They are setting themselves up for a life with no pride, satisfac-
tion, goals or self-respect. Another thing that really gets me is obviously the cost. People have to earn money to buy the things they want; there should be no way around that. The insensitivity that goes along with stealing someone else’s property that they had to work for is beyond me. It is hours of someone’s work taken in a second by the poor choices and carelessness of someone else. I cannot even fathom the inconsideration to do something like that. Stolen phones are definitely on the rise, so watch your back, literally. My iPod was taken from my back pocket. Thirty to 40 percent of recent robberies in the country, in fact, include cell phones. Not only are cell phone
robberies a huge display of inconsideration, it is stealing. From a candy bar to a car, it is wrong. Thief, what makes you think you’re better than everyone else, and that it’s okay to not pay for something when the rest of us have to?
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Jennifer Hoehn is in the eighth grade at Pine Hollow Middle School. Her interests are writing and illustration. She also enjoys playing the piano, and has a Glitter Tattoo business with her family. Email her at jennifer@claytonpioneer.com
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Drugs, bullies top teen trouble list BLACKHAWK ELEGANCE & SECURITY
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no, but that is literally the best way to go. Don’t sound scared or too harsh, but look them in the eye and say, “no, thanks.” Whether they accept that or not is up to them. If they single you out, it’s not the end of the world. Just think about it as a chance to meet new people who are interested in things like soccer, swimming, or just lazing around rather than using drugs and alcohol.
Q: My friends are drinking and using drugs. They keep pressuring me to try it, but I don’t want to. How can I say “no”? A: Peer pressure is the worstespecially coming from a close friend. And it may be hard to say
Q. I’ve been getting bullied lately. How can I get them to stop without being a “snitch”? A. First off, bullies are looking for some type of reaction. Like Dr. Sullivan from “Pretty Little Liars” once said about Internet abuse, “People hide on
the Internet behind fake ID’s and the anonymity of text messages; nothing could be more cowardly.” So whether it’s an Internet problem or a face-to-face person, a good way to solve a problem is to pretend that you don’t care. Bullies can cause serious social and trust problems. I suggest that you talk to a trusted adult or even a psychiatrist about your dilemma. It’s not bad to be a so-called “snitch” if it solves your bully problem and keeps them off your back. Alyssa Brosamer is in the eighth grade at Diablo View Middle School. She enjoys helping her friends through the rough patches. Send your questions to Alyssa@claytonpioneer.com.
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KidFest, from page 4 He believes baboons to be by far the most socially intelligent primate. The act features mandrills, which Keith says are the only species of baboon to be safely and humanely handled in the U.S. today. When you see them perform, you may think that maybe Darwin was on to something. “Wild about Monkeys” is the most popular KidFest attraction ever. The baboons appear in three shows daily at 12 noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Also new is SportStars Field of Dreams with athletic activities, games and clinics for kids wanting to tune up their skills in a variety of sports. Crowd favorite Clayton Bikes BMX Stunt Team is back. And kids can have their photos taken with Dora and Diego, stars of “Dora the Explorer.” Most of the entertainment is free and includes the arts and crafts, bounce houses and games that have been KidFest staples for more than two decades.
Complete information is available at Kidfest.org or by calling (925) 671-3287.
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Again, the Main Stage will feature free nonstop entertainment with music, dance, gymnastics, martial arts and more. Tickets are $5 per person with the donation of a canned good for the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano. ($6 without a can donation.) Babies and seniors are free. KidFest benefits local nonprofit educational, health and youth sports organizations. It is alcohol-free and smoke-free. Sorry, no pets.
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Page 10
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 24, 2013
Sports Trio named top 2012-13 CVCHS athletes JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Valley Charter High School recognized three seniors as Athletes of the Year for the 2012-13 school year with football record-breaker Joe Protheroe winning the male award while Ashley Allen and Shannon Mestas shared the top laurels for females. Athletic director Greg Fister lauded the winners for being, “incredible leaders, record breakers who always put their teams first. Humble leaders who
have exemplified leadership, set the right example and pursued victory with character and excellence.” ASHLEY ALLEN AND SHANNON MESTAS Allen’s senior year was special as the captain rebounded from a “lost” season a year ago after breaking her back. She led the Eagles basketball team to the North Coast Section championship game in both 2011 and 2013 after being voted Diablo Valley Athletic League MVP both years. As a sophomore and
senior Allen, a four-year varsity standout, was a key cog of Clayton Valley teams who made it to the Northern California Championships. She was also a twoyear varsity starter in softball as a freshman and sophomore. Her 2011 back injury required three rods, four screws and fusion to repair but she returned to play the last DVAL game of her junior season and into the playoffs. The Eagles only lost two leagues in her final three seasons, both while she was out injured. Mestas was DVAL softball
Jason Rogers photo
ASHLEY ALLEN (LEFT) AND SHANNON MESTAS are sharing the 2012-13 Clayton Valley Charter High School Female Athlete of the Year award after both had outstanding individual seasons while helping their teams to top rankings and success. Allen was a two-time DVAL basketball MVP while Mestas will likely earn her third league softball MVP this season.
Hall of Fame from page 1 Four years after she graduated from Clayton Valley, Debra married Steve in 1976. They never ventured far from their hometown and alma mater. Steve Gonsalves followed his dad Matt into the family business, Conco Companies, where is now president. (Matt Gonsalves was inducted into the California Homebuilding Foundation Hall of Fame in 2000.) Gonsalves Stadium at CVCHS bears the family name. Not only is just about everything in it attributed to their generous donations, including the press box, lights and track, but Steve Gonsalves did not just hand over a check, he dug in and joined the committee to drive the stadium project, which included artificial turf and lights, to completion. CVCHS isn’t the only school to receive benefit from the couple’s generosity, whether the
need be big or small. Mt Diablo and Highlands elementary schools, Tabernacle Christian, Diablo View and Pine Hollow middle schools and De La Salle, Carondelet and Pittsburg highs, to name a few, also are grateful for their assistance. A few years ago when the Mt. Diablo Unified School District announced it was eliminating high school sports, Steve Gonsalves was the first person to step up to make a substantial donation of $100,000 in Coach Iversen’s name. Then he began calling others to do the same. The United Mt. Diablo Athletic Foundation sprang up among the six schools in the district to manage the effort. The Gonsalves were at Newhall Park running in the first 5K run in 2009 to raise money and awareness of the dire situation impacting student-athletes in the district.
Debra Gonsalves’ interest in helping also reaches far and wide, but it is clear her focus is still at CVCHS, where she has left her mark in the classroom as well as on the campus. She is well known as the “Queen of Campus Beautification” at the school, often seen planting flowers, cleaning gutters and mowing fields. For Debra it is a labor of love. She has worked in classrooms, counseling troubled girls and encouraging special education students to set goals for the future. She helped spearhead the “Do the Right Thing” program at CVCHS, worked closely with the Parent Faculty Club and Athletic Boosters and always helps with the “Every 15 Minutes” program. The Gonsalves family has seen another generation enjoy CVCHS as their daughters Kelli (Class of 2001) and Jennifer (2004) are Eagle alums.
Online Registration is now open for the...
2013 Fall Season! Mt. Diablo Soccer - AYSO Region 223 serving Clayton, Concord, and the surrounding communities
Everybody Plays. . . Everybody Wins! Fun, affordable memories that last a lifetime. Mt. Diablo Soccer has been the first name in youth soccer in the Diablo Valley since 1980. Every child plays at least 50% of EVERY game! We are an ALL VOLUNTEER league and our Vision is to provide world-class soccer programs that enrich children’s lives.
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MVP as a sophomore and junior and was all-league as a freshman as well. She figures to earn numerous more honors this post-season after helping to high Bay Area rankings. She recently broke school season records for strikeouts as a pitcher and runs scored offensively. Mestas also has recorded six nohitters this season, two of which were perfect games. She is also a two-year varsity cheer member and comp squad performer. She was an integral part of CVCHS cheerleading squad that finished third at nationals. JOE PROTHEROE Protheroe was part of the barnstorming offensive juggernaut this past fall that garnered Clayton Valley its first-ever NCS football championship. His work as running back earned him DVAL Offensive MVP, AllMetro, All-North Bay/East Bay, All-Northern California and All-State honorable mention laurels. The captain rushed for over 3,200 yards while setting new school marks in rushing yards, touchdowns and points scored. Protheroe was also CalHi Sports Player of the Year, winning the award over two De La Salle state champion players. The Eagles football team not only won DVAL and NCS titles but reached the inaugural CIF Division II State Regional Bowl Game. Ironically a late-game injury sidelined Protheroe and the Eagles fell by three points to Oakdale. Other nominees on the boys
Mike Dunn photo
JOE PROTHEROE signaled his Clayton Valley Charter High School football team’s status as No.1 in DVAL and NCS. His exploits last fall earned the school its first-ever Section title and he was given numerous post-season awards.
side were Joe Medrano, Jesse Medrano (football, baseball), Ryan Snyder (baseball), Matt McCoy (wrestling, cross country), John Ballard (baseball, track and field), Eddie Juarez (football, baseball) and Logan Bangert (football, wrestling,
lacrosse). Other girls nominated were McKenna DeLong (golf), Taylor Ryle (water polo), Megan Elms (volleyball, soccer), Casey Adams (water polo, soccer) and Jacee Almond (softball).
St. Bonnies 4X10 relay team eclipses CYO Diocese record
Photo courtesy St. Bonaventure CYO
The St. Bonaventure CYO track season concluded at the recent Oakland Diocese meet with 10 individual gold medals and eight winning relay teams for St. Bonnies. The sixth grade boys 4x100 relay team broke the Diocese record with a time of 53.106. The relay team was, from left, Zack Clemons, Parker Allen, Jaden Watt and Nasim Chin, who also won the 100 and 200 meter titles. Also winning Diocese gold medals were Ayanna Broome (3rd grade, softball), Maddie Thompson (4th, 400M), Samantha Schauman (4th, 1600M), Jackson Castle (5th, 100M, 200M), Sydney Kupsh (6th, 1600M), Ben Acebo (7th, shot put) and Kelly Osterkamp (7th, 1600M).
May 24, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Sports
Clayton Valley Charter league champions move on to NCS playoffs as #3 seeds JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Valley Charter has established itself as perennial North Coast Section qualifiers for the baseball and softball playoffs and this year both Eagles teams were seeded third based on excellent regular-season records. Now they want to turn those high rankings into NCS championships that would close out the 2012-13 school year as it started when the CVCHS football team won its first-ever Section title. Clayton Valley baseball captured the 2009 NCS championship to culminate the school’s 50th Anniversary celebration and has been to the Section finals or semi-finals most years since 2002. The team won the 2013 Diablo Valley Athletic League title dethroning College Park by splitting a season-deciding series two weeks ago and ending a run of losses to the Falcons. Clayton has won 20 or more games every year since 2007, except 2008 when it “only” won 19. Coach Casey Coakley’s team opened the playoffs on Tuesday hosting Marin Catholic. A win would put them into the second round this Friday or Saturday against the winner of the Newark Memorial-Rancho Cotate game. Casa Grande of Petaluma is the No. 1 seed with three-time champ Campolindo #2 ahead of the Eagles. Both College Park (13) and Concord (5) are also in the playoffs in the opposite bracket from CVCHS. DVAL made a scheduling change for baseball and softball this year to set up home and away series in the same week between two schools. One of the concepts was that in baseball it would require teams to utilize multiple pitchers against each team. Softball has no such pitching limitations. Defending champ College Park won the first game vs. CV 1-0 with a walkoff win in the bottom of the seventh as the teams were then tied for first place. The Eagles came back with a 7-2 victory that gave them a one-game edge they protected to win an outright league title. The Clayton Valley softball team is making it ninth straight NCS appearance, this time as league co-champ. Eagles soft-
Page 11
UMDAF honors college-bound district high school senior athletes United Mt Diablo Athletic Foundation will honor seniors from the six Diablo Valley Athletic League high schools who are going to play college sports starting in the fall. Among the athletes feted May 29 will be over a dozen from Clayton Valley Charter. “We had an outstanding class of senior athletes leading our varsity teams this year at CVCHS. Our sports teams excelled, the coaching was phenomenal on all levels and the future is bright for athletics at Clayton Valley Charter,” said athletic director Greg Fister. The Clayton Valley contingent at the annual UMDAF event includes Jacee Almond (Bucknell University, softball), Taylor Ryle (Long Beach State University,
water polo), Samantha Boeger (Chico State University, soccer), Kierra Willis (Fresno State University, softball), Joe Protheroe (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, football), Jesse Medrano (Fresno State, baseball), Ryan Snyder (University of Redlands, baseball), John Ballard (Colorado Mesa University, baseball and track), Casey Adams (UC Davis, water polo), Edward Juarez (Sterling College of Kansas, football and baseball), Jasmine Bandayrel (Academy of Arts San Francisco, soccer), Casey Henggeler (Mills College, swimming), Alex Shimberg (Willamette University, soccer), Graham Pimm (Whittier College, baseball) and Michael Kerr (UC Santa Barbara, lacrosse).
CV Blue Mid-Season Classic Tournament champions Photo courtesy Scott Anderson
JAKE FRIGARD TOOK A PAIR OF SECONDS AT THE DVAL SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS as his Clayton Valley Charter Eagles placed second in the team results this month. Frigard was runner-up in both the 200 individual medley and 100 freestyle at league. He was one of six individual CVCHS swimmers to make North Coast Section times while nine more qualified on relays.
ball coach Kristen Morley says, “We are really excited to be heading to NCS again this season. We feel accomplished that we are co-champions of the DVAL with Concord but we are not satisfied. We look forward to seeing how far we can go into NCS.” The softball team hosted American High of Fremont looking for its 20th win of the season in its NCS first-round game. Victory in the opener would also give them a Friday or Saturday quarterfinal home game. Like their baseball counterparts, CVCHS split its critical two-game series with Concord to tie the defending NCS champions for the league crown and also receive the DVAL automatic berth by virtue of winning the tiebreaker. Katilyn Covione came out of a bad slump to hit a tworun homer, sparking her team to a 7-2 victory over Concord in the final game of the DVAL season. Shannon Mestas was the winning pitcher after suffering a 4-3 defeat to the Minutemen earlier in the week despite 11 strikeouts. TRACK & FIELD The first NCS Tri-Valley Area Meet for new coach Darren Newell last week was one of mixed results. A number of
athletes who were ranked among the tops in their events did not reach their best times or distances, failing to qualify for the Meet of Championship this week that will determine the NCS representatives to the CIF Start Meet May 31-June 1. The Tri-Valley meet was noted for a number of disqualifications among State Meet favorites. Sprinter Sara Holt took second in the 100 meters while Eagle teammate Jessica Forrester was fourth. They then joined Janelle Bandayrel and Jevonie Rogers to place second to Deer Valley in the 4x100 relay. Clayton Valley girls were eighth in the team scoring. Pre-season top ranked triple jumpers Holt and Nicole Sims were the only two jumpers to not post a legal jump, ending their seasons. Tisi Alatini was third in the discus and seventh in the shot put to become the lone Eagle to advance on the boys side. SWIMMING & DIVING Juniors Jake Frigard and Taylor Thorsen were the Clayton Valley standouts at the NCS winning Championships last week at Concord Community Pool. Frigard was seventh in the 200 individual medley and 13th in the 100 freestyle. Thorsen was sixth in the girls
50 free and 12th in the 100 free. The NCS meet saw a pair of national high school records set in the same local pool that hosted two of America’s most memorial swimming meets ever in 1974 when the National AAU Championships and USA vs. East German dual meets saw a couple dozen world records established. Three male swimmers bettered Olympian Brendan Hansen’s national mark in the 100 NCS breaststroke final in a race many called the “most extraordinary heat” ever. Carondelet won the girls championship for coach Jasmine Millan, who doubles during the summer as coach of the Oakhurst Orcas rec team. BOYS VOLLEYBALL Clayton Valley boys volleyball claimed a straight set win over rival Concord in the opening round of the NCS playoffs 25-15, 25-21, 25-13 before losing in the second round to eventual champ Campolindo. LACROSSE Fourth-seeded Novato bounced CVCHS from the NCS lacrosse playoffs in the first round 20-4.
Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Little League
Clayton Valley Little League’s 50th season is still underway but one team has already claimed a championship. CV Blue, a senior softball team for girls 13-15, won the recent District 4 Mid-Season Senior Classic Tournament in Martinez earlier this month. Manager Brian Cohen’s team won five consecutive tourney games against East County, Antioch, Pinole, Martinez and then Antioch in the finals. The team includes, front row from left, Lauren Ness, Emily Nelson, Savannah O’Connell; middle row, Kylie Alberts, Lauryn Douglas, Nikki Mason; standing, coach Amy O’Connell, Madison Briscoe, coach Mike Ligon, Haley Crookes, Sophia Scott, Melissa Williams, Cami Cohen, Sierra Sprague, manager Cohen and Chasey Tooker.
Travel Baseball Tryouts for our 2014 fall travel teams
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Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 24, 2013
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Last year the San Francisco 49ers were on the brink of winning their sixth Super Bowl, only to lose to the Baltimore Ravens in a hard-nosed football game. They had everything going for them: a star rookie quarterback in Colin Kaepernick, and arguably the best offensive line and defense in the entire league. With a roster bursting with talent and athletic ability the 49ers fell just short, but not to
worry, Niner fans, they will be competing for that sixth trophy easily over the next few years. Adding talent through the NFL draft keeps teams competitive, and over the past few years the 49ers have been one of the best organizations at drafting top-tier talent. This year’s 2013 NFL draft was another one where the 49ers got an incredible amount of talent and value for their picks. The 49ers had the most picks in the draft, but because of the vast amount of talent already on the roster there was no way they could sign all the rookies they drafted. The front office packaged picks together and traded up a few times in the draft. They did this for their first round pick, and with the 18th overall selection took Eric Reid from LSU. Reid is expected to be a starter opening day. He is a safe-
Paul Kommer named coach of Eagles girls basketball replacing Bernard Barnes JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
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Paul Kommer could muster a complete basketball team at home between wife Megan and their four daughters, Molly, Sara, Katie and Hannah. Now he will be heading Clayton Valley Charter High School girls basketball with Katie and Hannah potentially part of his program. CVCHS Athletic Director Greg Fister announced the hiring of Kommer as the head coach to replace Bernard Barnes, who unexpectedly left after last season when the Eagles reached the Northern
California Championships for the second time in three years. Barnes was the head coach for six years. Kommer has been the junior varsity head coach for seven years. His teams lost only one Diablo Valley Athletic League game over the past five seasons and they’ve been undefeated league champs the last four. “I’m really looking forward to the challenge and opportunity to be head coach at CV. We plan on nothing less than continuing the tradition of success. Bernard and Kris [assistant coach Pascoe] did a lot for the girls basketball program and have left the program in
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Clayton Valley Charter High School coach Casey Coakley has put together a staff of current CVCHS coaches and players as well as Eagle alumni to provide baseball instruction to youngsters 6-13 years of age at the school. Summer baseball school sessions will be held June 17-20, June 24-27 and July 1-3. Each daily session runs 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Fee is $120 for one session with discounts for multiple weeks. To reserve a baseball school spot or to get more information email casey.coakley@claytonvalley.org.
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from Rice who will help fill the void that Delanie Walker left. With their two fourth-round picks they chose Quinton Patton and Marcus Lattimore. Patton is a wide receiver who played for Louisiana Tech. He fills the need at wide receiver for the 49ers, and he’ll be a great player in years to come, with stable hands and decent speed. The steal of the draft was Lattimore, a beast of a running back out of South Carolina. He wasn’t a top-15 pick simply because of injuries, and if he can remain healthy he will become one of the league’s best running backs. The 49ers draft was stellar overall. They filled almost all their needs and got great, young talent for the future. The 49ers are ready to dominate the league for many years to come. Email your comments or questions to Tyler@claytonpioneer.com.
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ty and will fill the hole left by Dashon Goldson, who headed over to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free agency. Reid played for one of the best defensive programs in college football in LSU, and he knows how to tackle a man forcefully. His coverage abilities are a bit questionable as of now, but that is something that can be worked on in training camp. Joining Reid on the defensive side of the ball will be Tank Carradine from Florida State and Corey Lemonier from Auburn. Both are defensive ends taken in the second and third round, respectively. They have great athletic ability and can come in as rotation guys and eventually be starters. The 49ers also drafted great offensive players this draft. With one of their two second-round picks they chose Vance McDonald, a great receiving tight end
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OAKHURST ORCAS SIGNUPS STILL ACCEPTED FOR SWIM SEASON
Head coach Jasmine Millan is still accepting registrations for the Oakhurst Country Club recreation summer swim team. For more info email coach Millan at swimcoach@oakhurstcc.com or visit oakhurstorcas.com.
MDSA GUARANTEED FALL LEAGUE PLACEMENT ENDS THIS MONTH Mt. Diablo Soccer is holding online signups for the fall AYSO season. Until the end of May every player who signs up is guaranteed placement on a team. Players who register during June are on a waitlist. Girls and boys 4 (must be 4 by July 31) through 18 are eligible for MDSA. Parents are strongly encouraged to also accept a volunteer assignment to assist MDSA operate. For more information email registration@mdsoccer.org or visit mdsoccer.org.
DIABLO FC U9-U18 COMPETITIVE SOCCER TEAMS WELCOME PLAYERS Diablo FC is now aligned with the San Jose Earthquakes and is encouraging boys and girls in the U9 through U18 age groups to visit the club website to get information on a player evaluation for the 2013-14 competitive season. Players who missed tryouts can register today at diablofc.org and the
great shape,” Kommer says. He has four players who earned all-league honors last year returning in seniors Kayla Taylor and Kimmie Anderson and juniors Hayley Pascoe and Morgan Giacobazzi. His biggest challenge is replacing one of the school’s all-time best basketball players in graduating Ashley Allen. A Cal grad, Kommer was on the rowing team for four years and in his senior year the Golden Bears were Western US champions. He coached the men’s lightweight crew for four years and a women’s club basketball team at Cal for two years.
Molly Kommer was firstteam all-DVAL in 2011 when the Eagles also reached the NorCal tournament after a runner-up finish at North Coast Section. She is currently playing at Sonoma State. Paul Kommer has done five Ironman Triathlons. The desire, energy and perseverance needed to complete those grueling competitions will serve him well in his new position as he is certain to face lots of scrutiny after the successful run Barnes put together for the Eagles, losing only two league games in three years with a pair of NCS finals banners and two NorCal qualifications to show.
appropriate age group coach will contact the player about an evaluation.
ball (4-16 year-olds) will all be offered in June and July. There are different deadlines for each program. For full information, visit alloutsportsleague.com.
3 MORE FOOTBALL, CHEER SIGNUPS FOR CV FALCONS Registration is still open for Clayton Valley Youth football and cheer. Football is for ages 7-14 while cheer accepts ages 514. The final three in-person registration days for the CVAA Falcons are Wednesdays, June 5 and July 10, 6-8 p.m. and Sunday, June 23, 1-3 p.m. at Mountain Mike’s Pizza by Clayton Bowl. The season starts July 29. For more information and online registration visit CVAAFalcons.com.
DVC HALL OF FAME HONORS ‘89 FOOTBALL TEAM
The Diablo Valley College Athletic Hall of Fame will be honoring the undefeated 1989 Vikings football team early next year with induction into the DVC Hall on the 25th anniversary of its 10-0 regular season. Please email Hall of Fame founder and chairman Steve Ward at sward@dvc.edu if you were a member of the team or know any of the players so they can be contacted about the event.
SUMMER YOUTH, ADULT PROGRAMS COMING TO CLAYTON GYM
Summer will be a busy time for All Out Sports League programs through Clayton Community Gym. Adult volleyball and summer leagues for youth volleyball (8-16 years-old), tball (3-5 year-olds) and basket-
CLAYTON VALLEY FOOTBALL CAMP JUNE 24-27 North Coast Section champion Clayton Valley Charter High School hosts its Future Champions Full-Pad Youth Football Camp June 24-27 at the Concord school. Camp Director Michael Dominquez and Eagles head coach Tim Murphy explain that the camp has individual and group instruction and team competition with fundamentals and techniques of football taught by the CVCHS staff. To register, email coach.dmngz@gmail.com or call (925) 381-5143 for an application.
BLAZE TRAVEL BASEBALL TRYOUTS COMING UP
Blaze baseball is a member of USSSA offering 11U and 12U teams which play in highly competitive tournaments throughout Northern California. This is a fall travel team that competes in weekend tournaments during September, October and November. Tryouts will be held July 13 and 14 at Clayton Community Park from 2-6 p.m. These competitive teams carry only 11 players. For questions about the Blaze program or tryouts, contact Casey Copeland (510) 282-4986 or visit alloutsportsleague.com to register for tryouts.
May 24, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
Kenny and Jimmie are ARF’s Stars Jimmie is a handsome boy with lots of love to give, He likes to play with kitty wands and sit close and snuggle. The adoption fee for adult cats is $50. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday, 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The primary caretaker must be present to adopt. ARF also encourages kids 16 and younger and canine family members (dog adoptions only) to be present during the adoption process. KENNY
JIMMIE
Kenny is bright, polite, gentle companion. Kenny’s low-key side will make him a great sofa buddy for a lucky adopter. We think Kenny would enjoy a Basic Manners class so he can train by your side - and
maybe show the young’uns how a sophisticated gentleman gets the job done. The adoption fee for adult dogs is $225 and includes 60 percent off one 7-week dog training session.
Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arf.net, or call 925.256.1ARF.
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Five signs your cat loves you ELENA BICKER
PET PALS Cats are stoic creatures, which can make deciphering their feelings a challenge. Recognizing that hissing, yowling or growling are NOT happy sounds in the feline world is easy. But how can we tell when our cats are pleased, happy or content? Here are clues indicating your kitty is feeling blissed out:
1. Blinking: Have you ever tried slow blinking while you and your cat look at each other? If not, give it a try; chances are your cat will blink back. Blinking indicates a relaxed cat, and is considered to be a way for cats to positively acknowledge our presence. 2. Purring: Purring is still a mystery in some ways (no one has determined exactly how cats purr), but we do know cats can purr in situations that have nothing to do with showing affection. Cats sometimes purr when they are very sick, perhaps as a selfcomforting behavior; some cats purr while they are playing; one of our ARF cats purrs all
through his clicker-training sessions. But if your cat purrs as you softly pet her, it is safe to assume she is content. It can lull us into contentment as well – studies have shown that purring can lower humans’ blood pressure. 3. Kneading. Kneading likely stems from early kittenhood, when babies knead on their mama’s abdomen during nursing. There are many charming euphemisms for this behavior, such as “making biscuits” or “making muffins.” Kneading is another way for your cat to show she is content and happy. A claw trim might be wise to protect your skin while she kneads on
Mayor, from page 1
eral, will lead the ceremony this year.
percent funded by our sponsors and by you, our concert patrons. Your generosity last season generated nearly $16,000 in funding, covering nearly half the concert costs for the season. The Clayton Business and Community Association and Allied Waste donated the rest. Nearly 2,500 people attended our first concert two weeks ago and you donated nearly $2,300. You are amazing! Thank you. A few gentle reminders about concert etiquette so everyone can enjoy the concerts: • No chairs and blankets may be set out unattended before 4 p.m. on concert days; you can stake-out your space before that time only if you stay with your stuff. • No riding of bikes, skateboards or scooters, etc. in the park during concerts. • No silly string or water balloons in park. • No umbrellas, tents, etc., during concerts. • Please pick up your litter and
ALREADY PLANNING THE FOURTH Planning is well underway for our annual July Fourth Parade. The parade entry application is on the city website: www.ci.clayton.ca.us. The deadline to sign up to be in the parade is June 24. Our five-person committee does all the organizing, but we need many volunteers on the fourth to help us make the parade run smoothly. Please let me know if you will help out this year.
use recycling and trash bins as appropriate. The concerts are scheduled to end at 8:30 p.m. and we try to stick to that time out of respect for neighbors near downtown. Sometimes delays may cause us to run a bit over. We hope residents will understand when that happens. The park officially closes at 9:30 p.m. on concert nights, at dusk on other evenings, so please help us clear the park by that time. Social gatherings may continue at our downtown restaurants or clubs. MEMORIAL DAY COMMEMORATION Memorial Day is Monday. Before the family BBQs and other activities, please join me, our council and community members at 10 a.m. at the flagpole on Main Street for our annual VFW Memorial Day ceremony to remember those who gave their all to preserve our freedom. Concord Mayor Dan Helix, a retired Army major-gen-
New clients only. Limit one per family. Expires 11/30/2013
you, or place a fleece blanket between your skin and kitty’s paws for added protection. 4. Head-butts: Ever had a cat come up and “bonk” their head against you? Head-butting is also an affectionate gesture. You may also observe cats doing this to other cats, or even to dogs. Of course, she might just be asking you to feed her, but at least she is expressing it in a positive way. 5. Grooming: Cats who are good buddies often engage in a little mutual grooming. Some cats even like to try this with their humans. When your cat licks your hand or arm, it’s her way of treating you in a familial fashion. Many cats will alternate rubbing their cheeks against you and licking you – a marking behavior as well as another positive way to show affection. This is their way to “mark” you even more intensely. Accept the gift graciously. Your cat is declaring you are hers. Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at (925) 256-1ARF (1273)
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MOWING TO COME The lack of winter rains have made it extra dry this year, and many of you have written to share your concerns about the dry grasses on our trails and open space. Our Landscape Maintenance District budget includes only one mowing of weeds during the year. That will be done by mid-June. As always, you can contact me by email at JPierce@ci.clayton.ca.us. Let me know what you think.
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Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 24, 2013
Book Review
Book club celebrates life in face of death SUNNY SOLOMON
FOR
THE
BOOKS
For all of you reading this review in the Pioneer, and living in a community that supports a wide variety of book clubs, Will Schwalbe’s title “The End of Your Life Book Club” (Knopf; Oct. 2012) may be a bit jarring, if
not flat-out confusing. What? A book club specifically organized to read books about dying? Or maybe a book club whose membership is made up of readers who are dying? Close, but not quite. Schwalbe’s book club, which begins when his 73 year-old mother is diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer, has a membership of two, Schwalbe himself and his mother. I can almost hear the groans of disbelief. How depressing! But it’s not. Of course, especially with this book, you don’t need to read the ending (something Mrs. Schwalbe
unapologetically does with everything she reads). We know what happens – Mary Anne Schwalbe does not survive the cancer. As much as this story is about the books that Mary Anne and her son Will read and discuss in the last year-plus of her life, the key word is “life.” This is a book about living, not just with cancer, but with books and the stories found between their covers, the stories found in our discussions of books and the stories of our own that seem to emerge from reading books. Books become the bridge between a mother and son; their
relationship, already close, intensifies as they begin to discuss topics they have seldom touched before, both personal and general (death fitting in both categories). Within these conversations we learn of the powerful role Will’s mother plays in his life. Long-held secrets are revealed and others alluded to but kept buried. Despite her diminutive size, she is a woman to be reckoned with. Mary Anne Schwalbe’s past is formidable, including theater, academics, family and church. And if that weren’t enough, later in life, after volunteering to work under the most wretched conditions at
an orphanage in the Thailand, she became an activist, organizer and volunteer for refugee organizations in almost every war-torn country in the world. Will and his mother begin a blog so their family and friends (who number in the hundreds) can be kept abreast of her health. Although the blog is ostensibly authored by Will, it is Mary Anne who does the writing. Just as many novels have their subplots, so does Will’s memoir of his mother’s dying. Reading has always been a connective tissue in the life of this remarkable family and Will’s book is testimony to
both his family’s past with his mother in it and to its future in her absence. “The End of Your Life Book Club” has its uneven moments and scenes I wish had been enlarged upon, but it’s well worth the read. And for those of you in book clubs of your own, all of the authors and titles discussed are contained in the appendix and are, indeed, a rich source for guidance. Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’
Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. JUNE 5 FOR THE JUNE 14
IN CLAYTON May 25, June 8 Concerts in the Grove 6 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. For a complete concert series list, see Page 3. May 25, June 1, 8, 15 Farmers’ Market 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturdays. Diablo Street between Main and Center streets, downtown Clayton. pcfma.com/clayton. May 27 Memorial Day Observance Program to honor our lost heroes, sponsored by VFW Post 1525. 10 a.m. Veterans Memorial flagpole monument, Main and Oak Streets, Clayton. Free. June 13 Railroads A look back at the railroads of the Clayton and Diablo Valleys and beyond. Railroad songs. Sponsored by the Clayton Historical Society. 7 – 9 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Free. claytonhistory.org. First Thursdays Oakhurst Business Network Meets first Thursday of the month for social hour. Hosted hors d’oeuvres, cash bar. 5 – 7 p.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Drive, Clayton. oakhurstcc.com.
IN CONCORD THURSDAYS THRU SEPT. 12 MUSIC AND MARKET Thursday night live music and farmers’ market. Market 4 – 8 p.m.; music 6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free. cityofconcord.org. May 30: Aja Vu June 6: Salvador Santana Salvador Santana, the 29-year-old keyboardist, vocalist, omposer and songwriter and Bay Area native performs. Salvador is the son of the famous Carlos Santana. June 13: The Jessica Caylyn Band May 25-27 KidFest 24th annual event with nonstop activities for kids, tweens and parents; arts and crafts, food court and rides. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Mt. Diablo High School, 2450 Grant St., Concord. $5 with canned food donation for Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano; $6 without. kidfestconcord.com.
ON THE MOUNTAIN Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Events Calendar for more information. June 1 Historical Loop Join Rich McDrew to hike several historical sites in the park. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Meet at Curry Point on South Gate Road. June 7 Night Hike Adventure Join naturalist Michael Marchiano for a twilight to dark excursion in Mitchell Canyon to look for nighttime critters. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Meet at Mitchell Canyon parking lot. June 9 Donner and Back Canyons Leisurely loop hike to enjoy quiet canyons and scenic views in Mount Diablo State Park. 2 – 4:30 p.m. Meet at Regency Drive Trailhead. June 16 Snakes Alive Meet the reptiles of Mount Diablo. Join naturalist Michael Marchiano in the Summit Audio Visual room between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Save Mount Diablo programs listed are free unless otherwise noted. Go to savemountdiablo.org and click on Activities/Guided Hikes for more information. 947-3535. June 1 Restore Marsh Creek Remove non-native weeds, water plants. Bring drinking water, gloves, hand trowel; dress in layers. 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Register with George at 947-3535 or gphillips@savemountdiablo.org.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Thru May 26 “Salome” Butterfield 8 Theatre Company presents this one-act play telling the Biblical story of Salome. Cue Productions Live, 1835 Colfax St., Concord. $10-$20. b8company.com. Thru June 22 “Sweet Charity” Meet Charity Hope Valentine, the girl who wants to be loved so much that she sings, dances, laughs and cries her way through romances.
ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO
Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $42-$57. centerrep.org. 943-7469. May 24 – June 8 “100 Lunches” OnStage Theatre performance. A successful playwright dines with a newspaper critic who consistently pans his work in public, yet privately seeks his help in writing a play of her own. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$22. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. May 28 Spring Concert Performances by Young Performers Orchestra and Diablo Regional Youth Orchestra. Premiering specially commissioned piece by Clayton youth George Curtis Van Liew. 7 p.m. Shadelands Auditorium, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. $10. 943-5846. May 30 Spring Concert Performances by Civic Art Education’s Jazz Band and Flock of Flutes. Jazz Band features Concord resident Jerry Brazil on drums. 7:30 p.m. Shadelands Auditorium, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. $10. 943-5846. May 31 – June 1 Smuin Ballet Bouquet Smuin spring dance series. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $70. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 1 “Rollin’ on the River” The Diablo Women’s Chorale launches its 71st Annual Spring Concert. 3 p.m. Mt. Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church, 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. $15 at the door; $10 for students. diablowomenschorale.org. June 2 Danville Community Band Musical journey featuring tunes and composers from continental Europe. 4 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $13-$15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 8 The Show 2013 Presented by Dance Fusion Company. 7 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20-$25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 9 The Ballet School Wonderful 90-minute demonstration showcasing the beauty and grace of the evolution of the dancer. 11:30 a.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. June 9 “Mostly Broadway” David Burnham performs a mixture of songs from many of his celebrated roles as well as some favorite Broadway standards. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $15-$25. elcampaniltheatre.com.
calendar@claytonpioneer.com
and their Community Orchestra round out the program. 2:30 – 5 p.m. CUMC, 1645 West St., Concord. Free admission; gratuities welcome. concordumc.org. 685-5260. June 7 Baha’i, interaction, fellowship and discussion. Topic: Guns or Roses. Speaker: Peter Nelson. His compilation of Baha’i writings on economic recovery leads to work with the Baha’i International Community and participating in a workshop with representatives to the United Nations on Eradication of poverty. 7:30 p.m. Free. For directions, call 672-6686.
FUNDRAISERS June 14, 15 Clayton Theatre Company Comedy Show fundraiser starring Showtime comedian Monique Marvez and Clayton’s own Kyle Fitzgerald. Don’t miss this hilarious show and help the CTC raise money for their first production in the fall. 7 - 8 p.m. No host bar and food. 8 p.m. show. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Show not recommended for children under 17. $30. Seating is limited. claytontheatrecompany.com. June 15 Car Show Cars, awards, barbecue, activities for kids. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Dave Brubeck Park, Concord Boulevard between Mendocino Drive and Denkinger Road, Concord. Free to spectators. $25 admission for car participants; $20 before June 1. Held by Calvary Temple to benefit Wounded Warrior Project. calvarytemple.org. June 27 Golf Tournament Get in some tee time while supporting ARF’s lifesaving work. Silent auction, raffle, lunch, awards. Contra Costa Country Club, 801 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. arf.net.
AT THE LIBRARY The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. claytonlibrary.org or 673-0659. Wednesdays Book Buddies A volunteer will read stories for children 3 and older. 1 - 2 p.m. Call in advance. June 12 Doorstep Farmers Story Time Special story time for the whole family. Doorstep Farmers provide music, games and fun facts about vegetables. Free samples to families that attend. 7 p.m. June 19 Cake Decorating Sue Faina demonstrates her techniques for cake decorating. 4 – 5:30 p.m. Ages 12 -18. Registration required. June 26 Cake Decorating Techniques with Judy as follow up to program with Sue Faina. 4 – 5 p.m. Ages 12 – 18. Registration required.
June 14 Comedy Sliders Presented by Trapped in a Rumor Improv. 7:45 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $12-$15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. ccclib.org or 646-5455.
June 15 The Blue Devils Drum corps performance. 7 p.m. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. For more information and tickets, go to bluedevils.org.
June 8 Mock SAT Take free practice exam and get help preparing for the real thing. Scores and test-taking strategies at follow up session June 27. 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Registration required.
June 15 “The Princess Test” This fun musical story is loosely based on Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Princess and the Pea” and is performed in Russian. 4:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
June 10 Maori Forever These vibrant dancers will give you a taste of New Zealand with traditional dances and songs. 7 p.m.
June 24, July 29, Aug. 26 Mini Mondays Children aged 2-5 discover the natural world around them. Children must be accompanied by adult. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Lindsay Wildlife Museum, 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. $15. wildlife-museum.org. 935-1978.
1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
CHURCHES AND RELIGION
May 25 College Workshop designed for college-bound teens.1 – 3 p.m.
GOVERNMENT
2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission 7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.
May 31 Chromatica Newly-formed East Bay chorus of men and women singing classical and modern music. 8 p.m. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $15. chromaticachorale.org. June 2 Spring Swing Concert and Dance Featuring songs from the 1940s and 1950s. Three professional groups will be featured: HouseBlend, BrassFire! and the BW Big Band. Concord United Methodist Church’s Chancel and Bell Choirs
Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at claytonpioneer.com. Click on ‘Events’
May 24, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
Ramp up your meals with this tasty leek LINDA WYNER
FOOD
FOR
THOUGHT
I just returned from a spring foraging sojourn to the Pacific Northwest. The king salmon have started to run and fiddlehead ferns, sea beans and all
manner of springtime sprouts, mushrooms, and more can be encountered throughout the region. One uncommon springtime treat are ramps. These wild leeks run rampant (sorry, couldn’t resist) in many parts of northeastern and central North America in the springtime. They were widely used by Native Americans in cooking as well as a healing herb. It’s believed that Chicago likely got its name from the Indian word for ramps or “stinky onion” (shikaakwa and other variations). Because they were one of the first greens to appear in spring, ramps were considered an important “tonic” by providing vitamins and minerals that had not been available during the winter. The Cherokee boiled or fried the young plants, while
the Iroquois consumed them seasoned with salt and pepper they got in trade with the Europeans. Both the Objibwa and Menominee dried and stored parts of the ramp for the winter months. When Europeans came to North America and encountered the ramp, they thought it resembled a distant cousin, the ramson, or bear’s garlic, and gave it its current name. Ramps are the subject of many a festival in West Virginia and else-
where but its popularity is threatening its survival with springtime foragers virtually denuding ramp patches in their quest (I collected six ramps out of dozens of plants I encountered) and highbrow restaurateurs buying up the small supply that shows up at farmers markets. Ramps resemble green onions at their white bases but have broad green (edible) leaves. A common description of the flavor is onions and strong garlic. In central Appalachia, they are most commonly fried with potatoes in bacon grease or scrambled with eggs and served with bacon, pinto beans and cornbread. Ramps, however, are quite adaptable to almost any food style and can also be used in soups, puddings, ketchup,
guacamole and other foods, in place of onions and garlic. One way to work ramps into a meal is through soup. This recipe will be familiar on paper but distinctively flavored in the bowl. POTATO AND RAMP SOUP 4 to 6 slices bacon 4 cups chopped ramps (including green) 4 to 5 cups diced red potatoes 3 Tbsp. flour 4 cups chicken broth 1 cups heavy cream salt and pepper to taste In a large skillet or Dutch oven, fry bacon until crispy; set aside. Add ramps and potatoes to the skillet; fry on mediumlow heat until ramps are tender.
Sprinkle with flour; stir until flour is absorbed. Stir in chicken broth and simmer until potatoes are tender. Stir in the cream and heat thoroughly. You can leave the soup rustic, or purée a portion or all to develop a different texture. Add salt and pepper to taste. RAMP PESTO 1 bunch (10 stalks) ramps ½ cup toasted walnuts ½ cup grated Parmesan 1/3 cup olive oil (more if needed) Salt and pepper to taste 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice Wash the ramps and cut the ends off the bulbs. Roughly chop the leaves and bulbs. Also
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roughly chop the walnuts, then place both the ramps and walnuts in a food processor. Pour in the cheese and start processing, slowly pouring in olive oil until you’ve reached a consistency you like. Add the lemon juice and salt and pepper. The pesto is best used fresh, but you can let it sit a while for the flavors to marry. The pesto
would be great on warm pasta, as a base for pizza or just to spread it on crostini (toasted rustic bread). Linda Wyner, a local attorney and foodie, owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@pansonfire.com
Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 24, 2013
Try tile for a splashy design JENNIFER LEISCHER
DESIGN & DÉCOR Tile is probably the hardest working building material in your home. It isn’t a newcomer to the building materials scene by any means – it has been around forever; fired roof tiles have been found dating back as early as the third millennium B.C. Tile is easy to find, from small boutique showrooms to big box stores. And talk about variety! Tile comes in a plethora of shapes, sizes, colors, patterns
and textures. From a cost perspective, it is a very viable building material because its price point ranges from a $1 to $2 per square foot, on up into the $80s or $90s per square foot. With such a wide array of pricing, surely there is a perfect tile out there for your budget that meets your design criteria. Let’s review some tile basics to get you started on your project: CERAMIC VS. PORCELAIN TILE Ceramic and porcelain tile are the most widely used tiles in design projects. The basic difference is that ceramic tile is best suited for indoor walls and floors with light to moderate traffic, as it is more susceptible to wear, chipping and cracking.
Porcelain tile is suitable for both indoor and outdoor areas with light to heavy traffic due to its higher density and durability. GLASS TILE Glass tile can be used for interior and exterior projects as it’s a very strong building material that is impervious to water and resistant to heating and thawing. Use glass tile to cover entire walls as a design statement, bar tops, and the traditional decorative backsplash in a kitchen or bathroom. Glass in a bathroom, walls or flooring, is functional as well as elegant and festive, depending on the colors and shapes you incorporate into your design. If you’re considering glass on your bathroom floor, make sure to incorporate
a porcelain or stone tile into the floor pattern that offers a “grip” to avoid slipping. STONE TILE Stone is an incredibly durable material. And because of this durability, it’s a perfect material for any living space that has high foot traffic or a lot of general wear and tear. Living spaces like kitchens, bathrooms and entries are all perfect contenders for stone. Stone has a softer side too: Try it as mosaic backsplashes – decorative focal points behind a cook top – or as murals in shower and tub stalls, or decorative exterior spaces like fountain walls or gazebos. Caring for stone tile is the same as any other decorative surface in your home. It needs to be kept clean. And, seal-
a flat piece or capped piece of metal over an equal sized ceramic tile. Metal tile is a great option for any living space, from your kitchen to your built-in barbeque.
ing it annually will maintain its natural beauty. METAL TILE Stainless steel, aluminum, and copper tiles are decorative, durable and introduce an interesting color palette to modern and traditional designs. Most metal tiles are constructed by overlaying
Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com
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“That’s definitely not enough protection,” he said, as he reached for an expensive looking bottle on the counter. Despite his convincing sales pitch (and his bulging biceps) I didn’t buy it, but I started thinking. How much protection do we really need, both for sunbathing and for daily use? A couple of days later, while nursing a sunburn in my room (I guess SPF 4 really wasn’t enough), I decided to do a little research on the Internet. I found that while SPF 15 used to be the gold standard, dermatologists have now settled on a sun-protection factor of 30 as a healthy baseline for daily use which can be found in everything from moisturizers to foundation
and lip balms. So if 30 is good, why not 50, 80 or even 100? Research says that SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent of the sun’s damaging rays. As the numbers go higher, the jump in protection is negligible; infinitesimal is the word the Skin Cancer Foundation uses. The big problem is that people don’t apply enough. The correct amount for daily use is a teaspoon for the face and a shot glassful for the body. Also, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours when in direct sunlight or after a swim. And it’s not just the SPF that’s important. You must use a broad-spectrum sunscreen which protects against both UVB and UVA rays. So which products
are recommended? Neutrogena is a perennial favorite for sunbathing. Special technology in the Ultimate Sport line helps to resist sweat, water and sportrelated “rubbing” ($10.49 at Walgreens). There are a number of other choices for daily use, including the new multitasking CC (as in color correcting) creams like Clinique’s Moisture Surge CC Cream with SPF 30 ($35). If we agree that sunscreen is the number-one defense against aging and skin cancer (and it is), then we should follow the advice of experts, and also good-looking young men in towel booths. Live long and pester! Judith Marshall is the author of “Husbands May Come and Go but Friends are Forever.” Send comments to Judith.Marshall@att.net.
You know the difference between a financial advisor and a salesman. So do we. When it comes to your investments, you need solid guidance. But how can you be sure your financial advisor isn’t thinking about a commission instead of your future? The key is to find a professional who collaborates with you to set your objectives, and who has the tools and motivation to consider possible options. As a Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor, I don’t represent products, I represent my clients. With access to in-depth research and analysis, I can help you create sophisticated Chris J. Held CFP® Portfolio Manager Associate Vice President Financial Advisor
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May 24, 2013
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 17
Performing Arts
Lights go dark on DAE SALLY HOGARTY Special to the Pioneer
Although the economy seems to be slowly crawling out of its fiscal hole, many small businesses – especially those in the performing arts – are still struggling to survive. Last year saw the sudden closure of the Willows Theatre Company’s venues in Concord and Martinez due to financial hardship. This year, another theater company closes its doors but not because of finances. Diablo Actors’ Ensemble (DAE) is moving out of its very intimate Walnut Creek theater space at the end of May. The building at 1345 Locust Street, which houses the 49-seat theater, the Paint Palette and The Bead Store, has been sold and the new owners envision remodeling the property into a restaurant. Originally a church, the theater space may soon be a kitchen, serving up food specialties rather than entertainment. “We’ve really loved produc-
ing theater in this small space the last five years,” says artistic director Scott Fryer, who along with his daughter, managing director Sam Fryer, has been in the Locust Street space for the past five years. “We’ve tried to do shows that people don’t see that often and that fit into our space where the front row is just a few feet from the action,” he says. According to Sam, some of DAE’s patrons “have described our space as ‘cozy,’ and they like seeing dad and I at every performance.” Sam also liked seeing her dad so often as they worked through the myriad complications involved in producing live theater. “We’ve gotten even closer, and I’ve learned so much in the past five years that has allowed me to do things professionally that would have been impossible before,” she says. DAE has been producing shows in a variety of theaters in Contra Costa County since 1977, but the theater on Locust
Sally Hogarty
DAE DIRECTORS SAMANTHA FRYER and father Scott Fryer, on the set of ‘Grace and ‘Glorie before the company’s final performance.
in DAE’s first production in the space, couldn’t agree more. “With the actors in such close proximity, each audience member feels connected to what’s happening. It makes every show more hilarious, more impactful, more sorrowful and more thrilling than if it were produced elsewhere.” Other companies have also taken note of the work done at DAE. San Francisco’s AfricanAmerican Shakespeare Company will remount DAE’s 2011 production of “Driving Miss Daisy” in November 2013 with Scott directing and original cast members L. Peter Callender, Ann Kendrick and Tim Beagley reprising their roles. As the Fryers pack up the space and find new homes for
for excellence, they also built a loyal audience, and they did something almost unheard of in theater today – they managed to be financially solvent.
The 12th 12th Annual Annual The
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Street was the first space they could call their own. “It really has been a dream come true,” says actress and DAE board member Nancy Sale. “The intimacy that both the audiences and actors feel would be difficult to duplicate in larger spaces.” Actor Joel Roster, who was
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the lighting and sound equipment, they have plenty to be proud of. Not only did the company win several San Francisco Bay Area Critics Circle awards
Civic Arts Education’s Young Performers Orchestra and Diablo Youth Orchestra take on the works of Shubert, Haydn, Brahms, and a world premier by Clayton teen George Curtis Van Liew, trumpet concerto, at the Spring Concert on Tuesday, May 28. George Curtis, 16, is not the youngest one of his family to be performing with the orchestra. That would be 8-year-old Joshua. They are joined by siblings Peter, 11, Lynnsae, 18 and Justin, 19. Justin will solo on his brother’s composition. The ensemble is a familiar sight to Claytonians, as the
family has previously performed in the annual Fourth of July parade, all playing instruments together in the back of a truck. This is George Curtis’ third composition for the orchestra. His first was performed in August 2012, “Days of Youth.” Then, at the 2012 Christmas concert, his “The Christmas Suite” was performed. The Spring Concert will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28, at Civic Arts Education Auditorium, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Tickets are $10. For more information, visit arts-ed.org.
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Summer dance movies return to East Bay Diablo Ballet and The Lafayette Library and Learning Center bring back the popular summer Dance on Film series Thursday, June 6, with the 1954 musical movie classic, “Brigadoon.” Starring Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse, Lerner and Loewe’s legendary Broadway musical tells the story of two American tourists who stumble upon an enchanted Scottish village that comes alive every 100 years. The score features such classics as “The Heather on the Hill,” “I’ll Go Home with Bonnie Jean,” and “Almost Like Being in Love.”
Before the screening, Diablo Ballet’s Artistic Director Lauren Jonas and film critic Beau Behan will share fascinating facts about the making of the film. Behan has been featured on NBC Bay Area, NBC News and in the Boston Globe, and can be seen on the TV show, “Beau’s Flicks & Nix,” every Friday at 6 p.m. on the Comcast Hometown Network, CHN 104. Dance on Film celebrates some of the finest examples of dance captured in popular movies. The series debuted last year to sold-out screenings and enthusiastic audiences. Admission is $5 for all ages.
Everyone is invited to enter a free drawing to win tickets to attend a future Diablo Ballet performance. The Dance on Film series continues all summer with additional screenings, all beginning at 6:30 p.m. On Wednesday, July 10, it’s “Singin’ In the Rain,” and on Thursday, Aug. 15, it’s “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.” All screenings take place in the Lafayette Library’s Community Hall, located at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette, and proceeds benefit the Lafayette Library and Learning Foundation. For information, visit DiabloBallet.org or call the Lafayette Library at 925-283-6513.
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Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
May 24, 2013
These lilies are pretty as a princess Princess Lily Alstroemeria plants thrive in our Clayton Valley gardens and landscapes. These hardy perennials are truly outstanding. They make great introductions to any mostly-sun location. Alstroemeria bloom is surges beginning in May, and have a final surge in October. They come in many bold colors — orange, maroon, red, yellow and pink. Alstroemeria plants are a touch more costly than most perennials, and are worth every penny. Once you’ve grown a Princess Lily, you will want to plant more. Princess Lily Alstroemerias have people names, and it makes choosing your plants interesting. Amina is an outrageous orangecolored Alstroemeria. Each
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL flower has a blast of vivid color, with a gold throat and wisps of dark orange freckles. For the garden lover that craves orange in a bed or border, Amina would be the selection for them. Combine Amina with blue flowering Sunny Border Blue Veronica.
Mathilde is a dark-coppery coral colored Alstroemeria. This Princess Lily would look dynamite planted in a large container with some dark purple to cool down the intense flower color. Plant Scavola New Wonder around the base of Mathilde. The contrast of the two colors together would make a very successful container combination. If you are looking for additional interest, add a four-inch coleus for foliage appeal. The brilliant blooms of Alstroemeria Oxana will surely please the garden lover needing a dash of deep pink-based red, or someone looking for something more formal. The flowers of the Oxana would nicely
accent dark-green-leafed Euonymus Green Spire, especially if the evergreen was pruned into a formal shape. Louise is a perfect dark purple blooming Princess Lily with lemon yellow throat and almost black freckles. This selection is a crowd-pleaser, and always the first to sell. Clayton Valley garden lovers are passionate about purple. Alstroemeria plants have periods of bloom and rest throughout the growing season. Their cycles run in six-week sessions. All spring long, the Princess Lily plants began to grow from their winter rest. Now that May has begun to warm, buds are becoming flow-
ers. After weeks of flowers, the Princess Lily will focus on growing more foliage, with a second surge of flowers thrilling growers in early July. The cycle goes until frost. Alstroemeria plants prefer to be fertilized with a water-soluble formula. Use something with a larger first number as the plant grows, and once buds begin to show, then feed with a product with a higher middle number. All of the Princess Lily Alstroemeria plants will bloom at about one-foot tall, and reach around two feet wide.
Alstroemeria plants like to be watered by sprinkler or hand. They do not thrive when they must rely on drip for their irrigation. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Contact her with questions or comments at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
Don’t be chicken – grill fruits and veggies DEBRA J. MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market
It’s almost summer and time to enjoy the all-American summer pastime – grilling and barbecuing. Grab that picnic basket and head for the nearest park or campground, or walk out your back door to the patio and fire up the grill. Sure we can grill burgers, steaks or hot dogs, but did you know that fruits and vegetables are amazing when grilled? Stone fruit like apricots, peaches and nectarines are super on the grill. The cooking process allows the sugars in the fruit to caramelize creating a sweet smoky flavor. Summer squash is delicious when grilled with a bit of olive oil and garlic. And there’s nothing better
Get up to
than the smell of onions cooking on the grill. Or big ripe tomatoes sprinkled with Parmesan c h e e s e . Grilling fruits and vegetables intensifies flavors and adds wonderful color and aroma to your meals. There’s no better place to find the freshest produce than your farmers’ market. Here are some tips for grilling produce, as well as a couple easy recipes: Fruits are best grilled when the coals have begun to die out or when placed on the outer edges of the grate, using more of an indirect type of heat. Use skewers for kebab-style fruit or veggie combinations.
Brush vegetables with oil or butter to prevent sticking to the grill, or spray non-stick coating on a cold grill. When grilling firm vegetables, such as potatoes, they may need to be cooked before grilling. This is especially important when grilling firm vegetables with other vegetables, to ensure that they are all done at the same time. Experiment with different cooking times. A quick guideline: Soft fruits such as peaches and apricots should be cooked about five minutes, hard fruits a little longer. Zucchini and other summer squash, onions and
peppers should be grilled about 10 to 12 minutes, corn about 15 to 20. A selection of chunked vegetables can also be seasoned and cooked in aluminum foil for about 15 to 20 minutes. For a quick and spicy grilled summer squash side dish, slice squash lengthwise and place on a platter cut side up. Brush with olive oil. Sprinkle with chipotle powder and salt. Place on the grill cut side down and cook for a few minutes till slightly soft. Serve hot. GRILLED PEACHES Cut and pit peaches. Do not remove skin. Brush cut side with melted butter, sprinkle with brown sugar. Place on the grill cut side down. Cook until softened. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
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