NOV 06 Clayton Pioneer 2015 by Pioneer Publishers

IT’S YOUR PAPER

CV rocks royal tradition

www.claytonpioneer.com

November 6, 2015

925.672.0500

CELINE HERRERA Correspondent

DAVE SHUEY

MAYOR’S CORNER

There’s a new Chief in town

We welcome our newest Chief of Police, Chris Wenzel, to Clayton. Chief Wenzel is most recently a former Commander in the Contra Costa County Sheriff ’s Office, and has an exemplary and varied 26 year law enforcement career. In addition to his role as Commander, he previously served as Chief of Police in Danville for more than seven years and he has been a Watch Commander and Facility Commander of the Martinez Detention Facility. He also is a Livermore Valley School Board Trustee and is happy to put off retirement and work with all of us, embracing a tradition of small town values. Welcome Chief! (Look for a profile of Chief Wenzel in the Dec. 11 Clayton Pioneer.) On the recycling front, I feel like I am beating my head over and over. In September residents recycled at a rate of 46.21 percent while the commercial sector came in at a lowly 9.89 percent, which brings our calendar year

PHOTO

ROBERT BURTON

See Mayor, page 17 NEWLY CROWNED HOMECOMING KING ANNA LAU AND QUEEN VERONICA RENNER stand proudly with Veronica’s father. BY

It was not Homecoming as usual this year at Clayton Valley Charter High School. For the first time in the school’s history, two female students, Anna Lau and Veronica Renner, were honored as the school’s Homecoming King and Queen. Before the two students were nominated, it has always been tradition for students to elect one male and one female student to represent the student body. Anna’s election as Homecoming King, however, shined a light on the changing times. “I was really, really shocked,” said Anna, who identifies herself with the LGBTQ+ community. “I started crying and I couldn’t stop crying for the next 20 minutes afterwards. It was a pretty big thing.” It was a long-held tradition that students would vote for one male and one female to represent the school as king and queen during Homecoming week. As a lark, Anna and Veronica, best friends, decided to post a picture on Instagram, telling their followers to vote for them for Homecoming prince and princess. After receiving positive support from their peers, the two marching band seniors decided to campaign for the Homecoming Court.

See Homecoming, pg 7

Honoring those who fought for freedom

Five local veterans share their stories of war

“I could hit a jackrabbit on the run on the farm,” he said, “so even though I hadn’t been trained on the gun I began zeroing in on the targets.” Kohler eventually served six years in the Navy and returned to Minnesota in May of 1947. The initial euphoria of the victory had worn off and the returning servicemen put their war experiences behind them. “It was a shock,” he said. “Everything else had grown, but my town was still the

PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

Nov. 11 is Veterans Day, a day to honor all the men and woman who fought America’s wars. While it is a day to celebrate our freedom and their service, it is all too easy to nod your head to a veteran, say “thanks for your service,” and go about your day off. However, many people who have never served in the military, especially in wartime, understand completely the sacrifices and experiences of these veterans. In this issue of the Pioneer, we introduce you to five different veterans with diverse stories of war and peace, but one common thread runs throughout: their military service impacted, and perhaps defined, the people they are today.

What’s Inside

Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Community Calendar . . . . .13 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 Holiday Page . . . . . . . . . . .18 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 School News . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Fuhrman photo courtesy of Kohler archives

ON THE MORNING OF DEC. 7, 1941, CHUCK KOHLER (CIRCLED) WATCHES THE SKY OVER PEARL HARBOR while he places sandbags for machine gun nests on the connect apron near his hangar. The Pearl Harbor survivor, 92, lives in Concord with his wife of 64 years.

Earl J. “Chuck” Kohler, Navy, Pearl Harbor Survivor, WWII Like many others of his generation, long-time Concord resident Earl J. “Chuck” Kohler left his family’s Minnesota farm in 1941 to enlist in the service to help with the war effort. He was 17. Since he was under-aged, he needed his father’s permission to enlist. “I was surprised he said okay,” the 92-year-old told me in a recent interview. “I was responsible for the day-to-day operations and did most of the heavy lifting, but he was willing to sacrifice for the greater cause.” After Navy basic training,

Kohler was assigned to Pearl Harbor. At the time of the Japanese attack, he was composing a letter to his mother on a Remington typewriter. Bomb fragments flew into the back of his head, Kohler ripped out the unfinished letter and crumpled it in the trash before racing outside. “I was afraid I’d get in trouble if somebody found it,” he confessed. Plenty of other trouble awaited him outside. “At first I didn’t realize what was coming. The sound of bullets ricocheting off the buildings didn’t quite register as danger.” An officer outside ordered sailors into an uncovered construction ditch, but as soon as

Kohler hit the bottom he jumped back out and headed to the ammo shelter to put up a defense. “The officer hollered at me to get back in the ditch, threatening to put me on report — a serious offense during war time.” Kohler weighed the consequences but didn’t look back, finding someone with a key to open the ordnance shack. With considerable effort, he and a fellow serviceman mounted a machine gun into a PBY-5A, an amphibious aircraft parked against a bunker. At first, Kohler fed the ammo, but he could tell his mate was far off-target, so he manned the gun.

same. I tried to make a go of it, but ended up moving to the West Coast.” After stints at Columbia Steel and the paper mill in Pittsburg and Antioch, Kohler went into construction in 1952 and helped build most of the highways in the area, some of which people still travel on. “I’m proud of my contributions,” he says. “My experience in the service taught me

See Freedom, page 6

Pedestrian bridges close for repairs

Clayton walkers and hikers will have to take a few round-about ways over the next few weeks as the city is repairing the pedestrian bridges in town, including the popular one by the library. Beginning about Nov. 9, construction crews from Granite Rock Construction will repair the wooden planks on seven local bridges, beginning at the bridge at Westwood Park and working downward to Upper and Lower Easley. Six of the bridges are on the popular Cardinet Trail, used by pedestrians and cyclists. Maintenance Supervisor John Johnston says that the plan is to complete a bridge every two days, ending before the busy Thanksgiving weekend. Signs were posted earlier this week notifying pedestrians of the bridge closures, Johnston said. For more information, contact project supervisor Mark Janney at 925-673-7327.

Postal Customer ECRWSS

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190

Around Town

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

November 6, 2015

Super-responsible students honored by City Council The students were all lauded for always “doing the right thing”, with special notice given to those students who exhibit a high degree of Responsibility. From Mt. Diablo Elementary School, Abigail Keller and Ada Jeffress were both honored by their teacher Katrina Reyes. “These students are exceptional,” she said. “They always have their work done and both encourage other students to do their best.” Sixth-grader Juliana Ward and eighth-grader Lauren Utne were the honorees from Diablo View Middle School. On hand to congratulate them was Principal Patti Bannister who gave a special acknowledgement to Julianna who recently saved her nephew from near drowning. Bannister praised Lauren as an amazing student who

Six local students were recognized for showing great Responsibility: Standing in back: Julianna Ward, Odeli Hernandez, Mayor Shuey, Hosna Opeyany and Lauren Utne; In front: Ada Jeffress and Abigail Keller.

Pioneer Travels

served in the school office as an office assistant and was “always there to pick up whatever didn’t get finished.” CVCHS teacher Anthony Vines introduced Odeli Hernandez, calling her “kind of a rock star,” and Hosna Opeyany, whom Vines said was always a positive presence on campus. The DTRT program emphasizes six character traits, Cousins Colby and Mason rotating them throughout the Salinas visited Lanse Aux Meadyear. Next month, the featured ows, Newfoundland this sumtrait is RESPECT. mer and took along the Pioneer

to keep up with local news. “This is is where the first Eurpeans (Vikings) ever landed in North America (long, long before Columbus — more than 1000 years ago,” says mom, Danielle Salinas who was born in Newfoundland. “This place also has the distinction of being the first in the world to ever be designated a world UNESCO site (back in 1978). It is located on the very tip of the island of Newfoundland, complete with lots of fog, icebergs and moose.”

Windermere Gives Back

At the Oct. 6 City Council Meeting, Mayor Dave Shuey continued its tradition of recognizing local students for exhibiting several outstanding character qualities as part of

the community initiative, Do The Right Thing. “My favorite part of this job,” he said, as he called the six students forward to receive their award.

Claycord 4-H brought their small animals to the Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm on Oct. 11 to celebrate National 4-H Week. About 18 club members attended the event. Several hundred people came by to pet the chickens, ducks, rabbits, pigeons, guinea pigs and snake. Megan Eberhart, a new youth member, says, “I love telling kids about the different animals and seeing how the animals react to the people.” Likewise, Jack Gallagher, a seasoned 4-Her, says, “I like telling people about my pigeon and seeing what they think of it.”

Grownups and kids alike ent animals as visitors learned were fascinated by the differ- the animals’ names and were shown how to hold them. Bethany O’Connor, a teen leader, asked one little girl, “Are you a pumpkin person or an animal person?” The little girl answered, “I’m more of a rainbow unicorn person,” but she still enjoyed petting the duck. Claycord 4-H meets at 6:45 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month, September through June, at Bethany O’Connor, local 4Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton H teen leader, shows a little Road, Concord. For more informaboy how to pet a Pekin duck tion, go to ca4h.org. Windermere agents, Margaret Kearns, Bonnie Manolas, Angelique Booth, Carol Vanwith the help of her duck, By Sophie Brockman, Club Sec- Vaerenbergh. Michelle Gittleman, Roxanne Fernandez, Mike Davis and Sylvia Jones spent Nike, during a National 4-H retary a Windermere service day sorting food for the Contra Costa-Solano Food Bank.

4-H Members Visit the Pumpkin Farm

Every year the staff and agents at Clayton’s Windermere Lynne French & Associates strive to make a difference in the community by participating in a few charitable events. So far this year employees have participated in two food drives and volun-

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

Better Homes BRE#00933393

George Vujnovich,

708 Anizumne Ct. – Clayton

Desirable Dana Hills Single Story Rancher! On a large corner lot. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1740sf & 2 car garage! Updated bathrooms. Walk to community pool, playground & green belt.

1505 Kirker Pass Rd #106– Concord

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

Don Howard

(925) 408-3184, Donald.kent.howard@gmail.com

SO L D

howardhomeseastbay.com

Cal BRE #01846446

Diane and Bill Hayes

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

S OL D

homesbydianehayes.com PRICE

5610 Ohman Place . . . . . . . $705,000 409 Chupcan Place . . . . . . . $600,000 5153 Keller Ridge Drive . . . . $750,000 17 Rhine Court. . . . . . . . . . . $720,000 331 Mt. Washington Way . . . $765,000 903 Condor Place . . . . . . . . $439,000 5272 Clearbrook Drive . . . . . $627,700

. . . . .2443 . . . . .1904 . . . . .2467 . . . . .1776 . . . . .2131 . . . . .1252 . . . . .1989

35 Calle Este– Walnut Creek

Walnut Orchards! Large Home on a Huge lot at the end of the court! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 1853sf. Downstairs master suite! $685,000

Super “Spring” model at Diablo Ridge! right out of a decorator magazine! 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1252sf! Stunning updated Slab granite kitchen & sleek updated baths. $439,000

BED/BATH SALE DATE ADDRESS

. . . . . .4/3 . . . . . .10/27/15 . . . . . .3/2.4 . . . . .10/9/15 . . . . . .4/3 . . . . . . .10/9/15 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . .10/6/15 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .10/2/15 . . . . . .2/2.5 . . . . .10/2/15 . . . . . .4/3 . . . . . . .10/8/15

1838 St. Michaels Way–Brentwood

Prestigious “Montelena” Subdivision! Sensational & Sprawling single story upgraded from top to bottom! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3785sf. 3 car garage & a sparkling pool!

$799,000

795 Silver Hills Dr. – Brentwood

Terrific “Pioneer” model on a court! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1904sf, fireplace, 2 car garage. Gourmet kitchen with slab granite counters. $600,000

903 Condor Place– Clayton

Realtor-Associate, Clayton Residents,

ADDRESS

“Corners Concord” Gorgeous First Floor Unit! 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, approx. 744sf & inside laundry! Updated kitchen features slab granite counters, maple cabinets & stainless steel appliances. $266,500

409 Chupcan Place – Clayton

Realtor-Associate, Clayton Resident

provided by Better Homes Realty

S O LD

www.jenniferstojanovich.com

Cal BRE #01446062

Clayton Market Update

$649,000

www.georgevujnovich.com

Lifelong Clayton/Concord Resident

$519,000

11 Mt. Teton Place – Clayton

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

Broker-Associate,

College Park Charmer! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1,247sf, plus a bonus buildinghome office-gym or artist studio? Walk to shopping, Mall and near freeway access!

$559,000

Broker, Clayton Resident

Jennifer Stojanovich

23 Baylor Ln. – Pleasant Hill

Black Diamond at Oakhurst Country Club! Extremely Rare “Grove” model! with desirable downstairs master suite! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1666sf & 2 car garage!

(925) 672-4433

Cal BRE #01222762

holiday season, as well as a project for our Windermere Community Service Day next June. If you know of a local project, family or organization in need, please e-mail Angelique Booth at Angelique@windermere.com.

Week celebration.

Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell since 1979

Cal BRE #00933393

teered their time sorting food at the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties. With the help of neighbors and the community, the office has donated 3,137 pounds of food in 2015. The Windermere office is looking to support families in need this

Exceptional Custom Built Estate in Exclusive Gated Silver Hills Community! Gentleman’s ranch on 11.40 acres! 4 bedrooms, library, bonus room, 4.5 baths, approx. 4816sf & 6 car garage. A must see to believe! $1,699,000

1070 Deer Oak Place– Concord

P E ND I NG

PRICE

2638 Wisteria Way . . . . . . . . $524,000 1560 Adelaide Street #10. . . $167,500 3196 Claydia Drive. . . . . . . . $435,000 5178 Sutherland Drive . . . . . $585,000 1455 LaTour Lane #29 . . . . . $260,000 3579 Kimball Way . . . . . . . . $408,000 2170 Belmont Road . . . . . . . $547,000

“Live Oaks” Fantastic Townhome situated in a Desirable Neighborhood! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1636sf & 2 car attached garage.

$459,000

BED/BATH SALE DATE

. . . . .1740 . . . . . .3/3.5 . . . . .10/2/15 . . . . .1039 . . . . . .2/1.5 . . . . .10/2/15 . . . . .1616 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . .9/30/15 . . . . .1832 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . .9/29/15 . . . . .904 . . . . . . .2/1 . . . . . . .9/24/15 . . . . .1372 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . .9/23/15 . . . . .2595 . . . . . .6/3 . . . . . . .9/18/15

November 6, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Renovated jail to be museum’s Halloween began early on soccer field newest permanent exhibit Around Town

CELINE HERRERA Correspondent

Photo courtesy Diablo FC

A week before trick or treaters converged on Clayton, the Diablo Futbol Club youth soccer organization hosted its 17th annual Halloween Kick or Treat Classic which combined soccer and Halloween costumes over the Oct. 24-25 weekend for boys and girls in the under 9 through U11 age groups. The host Diablo FC 05 U10 team was awarded best boys costumes. The mummified players were in costumes made by Kaci Falk and Dominque Gonzales, mothers of players on coach Daniel Rednic’s team. DFC 04 includes, front row from left, Nicholas Aiken, Jose Nunez, George Simpkins, Anthony McClintock, Kevin Martinez; back row, JJ Falk, Andy Arriaga, Niles West, Anthony Pelosi, Andres Leroux and Max Gonzales.

Sugar and spice, it’s all nice

CLAYTON RESIDENT ARLENE LEWANDOWSKI’S collection of flower pot cupcakes took a blue ribbon in the advanced category at the 8th Annual Cake & Sugar Art completion on Oct 17-18

“Let them eat cake!” Marie Antoinette supposedly declared during her short reign as queen of France. Her perspective may not have been the most appropriate at the time, as the French Revolution was in the making. Nevertheless, this historic statement, almost 250 years later, has a much more meaningful, more resounding sentiment that the Contra Costa Cake & Sugar Society has fully embraced. Cake makes everything better. “From professional to novice, our members are here to develop and refine their craft,” says charter member Arlene Lewandowski. “We conduct hands-on workshops that take place at each of our monthly meetings, but more importantly, the group is a network of support and fun.” For more information on the CCCSAS, go to www.cccsas.org.

For the time being, the Clayton Jail is taking no prisoners – or visitors, either for that matter. The tiny jail that stands behind the Clayton Museum on Main Street is closed for renovations. Clayton, once known as “the bloody folds of Contra Costa,” measured such a crime rate in the 1800s that Contra Costa County Clerk L.C. Wittenmeyer filed a petition to open a local jail on Oak Street as a temporary holding place for prisoners before they were transferred to the facility in Martinez. The petition required the jail to include at least two blankets, a water bucket and an outhouse for the miscreants that were guilty of disturbing the peace, cruelty to animals, desertion and malicious mischief. The delinquents that created chaos, trouble, and inconveniences while in jail were sent to a more secure facility elsewhere in the county. At the time, most residents in the Clayton Jail were guilty of debt-related crime. By the 1920s, the automobile made it easier to move the prisoners to Martinez and the jail became the local playhouse where local kids played hide and seek. Two decades later, Tony Gomez bought the jail to use for his family’s garage at their property on Oak St. In 1976 it was moved to the

Clayton

$749,900

Peaceful Paradise — Breathtaking views. 5 bedroom, 3 bath home on lushly landscaped, half acre lot. Open floor plan w/fresh paint in & out. Updated kitchen with granite counters, Formal dining & inside laundry Rm. Backyard features patio w/brick BBQ, deluxe redwood fencing and RV parking.

$689,000

Rose Glenn — Lovely single family home that features four bedrooms, two and half baths, hardwood flooring and awesome park like yard. Home provides approximately 2,356 square feet of living space that is an entertainers delight.

$425,000

ShellysHomes.withwre.com Cal BRE#01467993

Lynne offers free staging on ALL LISTINGS

$TBD

Beautiful — 3 bedroom, 2 bath rancher in great family neighborhood. Nicely updated with remodled bathrooms, new carpet, roof, and fresh paint inside & out. Backyard with patio, shed and unlimited possibilities.

ing

Holbrook Heights — 4 bedroom/ 2 full bath approximately 1,400 sq. ft. New dual pane windows throughout this single family home. Updated with fresh pain and skylights. There is a beautiful sun-room for you to relax and enjoy. Great location with close proximity to schools, restaurants and shops. Shelly Gwynn, (925) 207-3069

San Ramon

Concord

torical background information, the history of the Clayton police and will include among the artifacts the blacksmith tools that were used at the turn of the 19th century. New signage and pictures will demonstrate and showcase the jail’s history. Even though criminal activity has died down and miners, saloons, and petty activities no longer roam the “bloody folds of Contra Costa,” the jail’s history will never be forgotten. For more information on the jail project, go to www.claytonhistory.org. The Clayton Museum, 6101 Main St. is open Wed. and Sun., 2-4 p.m.

Martinez

$559,000

Picture Perfect Home — This charming con-

temporary-style home features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and just over 2,000 sq. ft. of open, light, bright living space. The quality formal living room offers a perfect space for entertaining while the family room combo provides a more relaxed environment boasting a cozy gas fireplace. The kitchen combo has stainless steel appliances, large eat-in counter with sink, and abundant cabinet space. This fabulous home is a must see.

Sylvia Jones, (925) 200-7491

S ing

Concord

museum where it was used as a storage shed until the mid-1990s. In 1994, a committee began plans to refurbish the jail; restoring it to its original 1800s look. This summer, a team of volunteers, headed by Museum curator Renee Wing, worked extensively to document the jail’s progression over the years. The volunteers are motivated to keep Clayton’s history alive. “It’s where our roots are,” says volunteer Sally Turner. Wing expects the renovations will be complete by the end of the year when the pristine museum exhibit will be open to the public. The exhibit will feature his-

S ing

THE CLAYTON JAIL WAS ONCE USED AS A GARAGE for the Gomez family. The old building was moved to the museum in 1976. The Jail is closed until the end of the year for renovation.

Walnut Creek

$589,800

Rossmoor — What a gem! Rare “end unit” with skylights, dual pane windows and crown molding. Bright and airy 2 bedroom + Den & 2 updated bathrooms. Remodeled kitchen, cut glass front door and gorgeous wood flooring in living areas. Charming patio with water feature and views of the hills. Won’t last! Inge Yarborough, (925) 766-6896 www.IngeYarborough.withwre.com Cal BRE# 01309306

infosylviarealestate@gmail.com

Martinez

$765,000

Brittany Hills — Stunning home on cul-de-sac in Brittany Hills. This gorgeous home features over 2,700 sq. ft. of living space including 4 beds and 2.5 baths. Guest bedroom on first floor, soaring ceilings & built in speaker system. Beautifully landscaped backyard w/ stamped concrete, fountain, pergola & built-in BBQ Convenient location near freeway, schools and shopping. Michelle Gittleman, (925) 768-0352 MichelleGittleman.com Cal BRE# 01745325

ric

P ew

Cal BRE# 01331733

Clayton

$680,000

Welcome to Paradise! Great opportunity with nearly 18 acres of privacy & all the comforts of country living. 2 bedrooms +LOFT, new carpet & laminate, light & bright w/dual panes. Indoor laundry, wood burning stove. Creek runs through offering swimming hole & views. 2 decks, filtered well water, storage Heather Gray (925) 765-3822 RealEstatebyHeather.com Cal BRE#01329100

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

"Like" us on

- Windermere Clayton!

Two offices to serve the community Cal BRE#01122025

Page 4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Say goodbye to your CD-Rom

WILL CLANEY

TECH TALK

Yes, my friends, the CD ROM drive in your computer is now considered a Dodo Bird, a dinosaur, and that’s the good part. Now for the really bad part: The CD’s you wrote all that data to is not only extinct, it’s useless,

Mitchell Canyon home safe after shed fire

A fire in an outbuilding on Mitchell Canyon Rd. last week prompted a fast and heavy response from CCCFPD and police. The huge, billowing cloud of black smoke could be seen from as far as the Martinez Hills. The fire burned a storage shed behind the home at 895 Mitchell Canyon and the surrounding trees late in the afternoon of Oct. 27. The residence was not involved and the homeowners were at home during the fire. The cause is under investigation. Seven stations responded, sending 22 CCCFPD personnel to the scene.

dead, (as in “Its dead Jim,” — Dr. McCoy of “Star Trek”) and defunct because the material used to produce a CD is degrading much faster than originally predicted. Ugh, as if computing wasn’t complicated enough comes this news. “In the early ‘90s when the first CD-R disc was introduced, manufacturers said the media had a data life in excess of 40 years,” according to Audioholics. But now the projected life of the best CDs is less than 14 years, and if you were fortunate enough to buy the “cheepie” CDs that life span has diminished to just seven years. There are still industry “experts” that say all of the above is nonsense, that the CD will last 50 years. Okay, fair enough, but you’re dead wrong. My eyes have seen the coming of the demise and it’s called CD rot. Just the other day I pulled a burned CD from my cool, dry storage cabinet and the surface was peeling off. So I thought about Murphy’s law, “if something can go wrong, it will.” Some manufacturers did and are still making burnable CDs that will last a bit longer, but the truth is the way they are made is the real problem. A CD is nothing more than a plastic disk covered in a metal oxide material similar to the consistency of Saran Wrap, with metal bits glued to the surface of that plastic disk. The wrap is thin, very thin. Technically, “The reflective part of the CD-R comes from a metal foil that is glued to one side of the polycarbonate [plastic disk],” according to the website Technically Easy. They continued, “The reflective color of a CD-R is determined by two things: The metal foil and the dye used. The type of material used can affect how long a CD-R will last.” And you

bought the cheap ones, didn’t you? “The biggest impact on the longevity of a CD is the type of dye that is used. There are a few main dyes used in CD-Rs: cyanine, phthalocyanine and metalized AZO. Each dye has a different chemical composition, so their color and shelf-life are different,” says Paul Salmon, the author of the Technically Easy story. Of course they range in price from cheap to dear. Did you pay $2 each or 50 cents? Then there’s this: The CD has a 4GB limit to its size, and the transfer rate is slow, like the products it replaced: floppy drives and tape backup drives. One can buy a 4GB USB Flash drive (a thumb drive) from Staples for $4 that is 10- to 20-times faster than any CD device. And, oh yes, did I mention CD media is degrading – rapidly. Put data on a HDD or SSD as they have the ability to recover data on failure, whereas the CD has no way to recover data. Once damaged, it’s lost. Conclusion: If you have valuable data on CDs transfer it to another media because you’re about to lose your data, which means years of photos, document files, music, art, family history, etc. Am I fear mongering? Yes. Justified for doing so? Yes.

William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to will@claytonpioneer.com.

1046 KASKI LANE, CONCORD

Single-story Mid-Century

Sitting on a third of an acre steps from Lime Ridge Open Space, this 1,687 sf, single story home with 4 bedrooms and 2 baths has an open floor plan. Exposed beam ceilings, brand new carpet, paint and lighting throughout. The kitchen features newer granite counters, plenty of cabinets and nice appliancesHuge master bedroom suite with great light and room for sitting area, desk or crib. Has second bedroom off of it as well w/large closets. Dining area opens to living room with picture windows and fireplace. Large enclosed sunporch, perfect for entertaining or kids' play area. Private backyard has synthetic grass, and the front yard boasts a large lawn; and drought resistant landscaping. Schools include El Monte Elementary, El Dorado Middle School and Concord High School. Offered at $600,000.

Other Homes For Sale — Call me for more information

Interest rates are holding at around 4% fixed – plenty of homes to choose from AND some great deals to be had! Let my team and I help you find a new home and we’ll provide you with a free one-year home warranty as a nice holiday gift!

Call today to get started and let’s go home shopping

ing

Ellard Place, Concord

Contemporary home near shopping and Concord Pavilion. This 2,071 s.f. home has 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Park-like private yard with large deck and hot tub. $40K in updates including paint, carpet, flooring and lights. Formal dining/living rooms vaulted ceilings, plus RV parking. Offered at $642,000

Inaugural science discovery day big hit at Cal State East Bay JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

NANCY E. BENNETT

New Home for the Holidays?

COMING SOON

Sheridan Ct., Concord Updated & spacious!! 4 beds, 2 bath Mid-Century Rancher on large lot!!

“This science discovery day was the culmination of over five years of work in the Capitol – being able to bridge the gaps between public policy, students, educators, schools, private industry and, most important, our local community,” said an enthusiastic Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla following the science discovery day - Explore! Discover! Create! – she organized last month at Cal State East Bay - Concord. Attendance reached nearly 1000 including over 500 students ages five to 14 who registered to take part in the activities presented by 19 community partner exhibitors from education, the private sector and government. The event was held in collaboration with the Bay Area Science Festival, which concludes this Saturday. Students were able to expand their knowledge of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields by participating in over 20 different hands-on science and technology activities at CSU East Bay’s Concord campus. Bonilla legislative aide Ryan Morimune said, “It was a beautiful day with plenty of engaged, excited and happy children jumping from table to table” around the outdoor quad on the campus off Ygnacio Valley Rd. “The event was so successful, children and parents were already asking about other similar events. I’d have to say the liquid nitrogen/ice cream presenta-

Photo courtesy office of Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla

A HANDS-ON SCIENCE DISCOVERY DAY was held at Cal State East Bay – Concord campus on Oct. 24 hosted by Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla. The event for students ages 5-14 featured hands-on science and engineering activities where students explored the STEM fields, discovered new interests and created lasting memories. Michelle Cox (left), representing Contra Costa Water District, demonstrated how filtration is used in the water treatment process. Filtration is one of the steps used at CCWD’s water treatment plants to ensure residents have clean and safe drinking water at their homes.

tion and how to extract your own DNA were probably the most popular, however every table was busy throughout the entire event.” Bonilla, who terms out from her Assembly seat year, is chair of the Select Committee on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Education. She said, “The STEM fields are the future of California’s economy and it’s important that we engage our students at the earliest age possible, so they’re not only prepared for a quality education, but also equipped to be competitive in our transforming economy.” She added, “It’s safe to say it

was a successful event that exceeded our expectations. We look forward to building upon this day with future events.” The event was also presented in collaboration with CSU East Bay, California STEM Learning Network, Contra Costa College, Contra Costa Community College District, Contra Costa County Office of Education, Contra Costa Economic Partnership, Diablo Valley College, Los Medanos College and Mt. Diablo Unified School District. Some school districts provided transportation to the event for their students.

the tour will go on. The CEMEX Quarry on Mt. Zion above Clayton may run out of capacity soon. The quarry area must be “reclaimed” based on an existing Reclamation Plan. CEMEX is proposing to lengthen the life of the quarry (and its impacts like dust, noise and trucks) by decades by deepening the quarry pit 200 feet. To do so, they must amend and extend their existing Land Use permit and Reclamation Plan with the county. The quarry might become a 450-foot deep lake after mining ends. Neighbors

and SMD are concerned about this expansion. The quarry is adjacent to Mount Diablo State Park and Mitchell Canyon, one of the Park’s most popular areas. SMD’s Land Conservation Director Seth Adams will lead the Sunday, Nov. 15 walk. Juan Pablo Galvan, an SMD Land Use Planner, will lead the same walk on Sunday Dec. 6 at the same place and time.

SMD hikes will review quarry expansion plans JUAN PABLO GALVAN Special to the Pioneer

Residents are invited to join Save Mount Diablo on two hikes to learn more about the CEMEX quarry expansion project, one at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 15 and another at the same time Sunday, Dec. 6. Hikers can meet at the Mitchell Canyon Staging Area at the south end of Mitchell Canyon Road (96 Mitchell Canyon Rd.) in Clayton to take a less-than two-mile easy round trip walk to view the quarry from nearby, and learn about what’s being proposed for the area. The walk is free, but the Mount Diablo State Park parking fee is $6. Besides learning about the project, walkers can view beautiful parts of the park and hear how to get involved and stay informed about the project. Heavy rain will cancel the hike, but with light rain,

www.LeighKlockHomes.com New Listing

Visit the website at www.savemountdiablo.org and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MountDiablo to learn more.

925.212.5593

www.4160CobblestoneDr.com

ALSO AVAILABLE NOW Crossings Home in Concord!

4 beds, 2.5 baths, almost 2,900 s.f. Updated 2-story with pool! Private showing only ASAP. Call Nancy for price.

With more than 80 homes sold this year, we’ve helped another 6 families into homes this month – how can we help you and your family with real estate today?

Super Sharp 4 bedroom, 2 bath, Cape Cod home in Canterbury Village, Concord. Remodeled and Updated throughout! Call for details. Offered at $517,000

SOLD 0 $529,00

Nancy E. Bennett, The Bennett Team #1 Realtor in Concord #1 Team, Keller Williams East Bay Agent Leadership Council, Mentor, Faculty Member and Top Producer

925.606.8400

SOLD 0 $710,00

www.1375ShellLn.com

Leigh Klock, Realtor

Nancy@BennettBetter.com

BENNETTBETTER.COM

November 6, 2015

CalBRE #01399870

Senior Real Estate Specialist Accredited Staging Professional CalBRE# 01874255

Leigh@LeighKlock.com

www.218MtWilsonPlace.com

November 6, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 5

MTC, ABAG stave off fight; Regional planning agencies to merge PEGGY SPEAR Clayton Pioneer

It wasn’t exactly a regional planning cage match, but two major local agencies were poised to fight for their authority in a battle that would have long-reaching affects on the development of the Bay Area. But an agreement reached last Wednesday to merge the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and the Association of Bay Area Governments staved off the threat, a decision called a victory by the more locally oriented ABAG. “This agreement preserves local control,” says Clayton City Council member Julie Pierce, President of ABAG and also a member of the MTC. Although ABAG had originally opposed the merger, the compromise agreement seemed to satisfy Pierce and other ABAG members, who were “deeply concerned” by the MTC’s original plan to envelop ABAG’s regional planners.

HISTORY OF AGENCIES ABAG, created in 1961, is an association made up of elected officials from city councils, boards of supervisors and other agencies in the nine-county Bay Area. It has a $23 million budget, which it receives planning funds from the MTC. The MTC was created nine years later with state and federal funds, and is not seen as representative of local Pgovernments as ABAG, said Concord Planning Manager Laura Simpson. The MTC is the regional governing body that oversees and coordinates transportation, like the design and construction of the new Bay Bridge eastern span. It has a $60.7 million budget from state and federal

Pete Barra

JULIE PIERCE PRESIDENT, ABAG

funds, and it also collects and distributes toll money from Bay Area bridges (with the exception of the Golden Gate Bridge). Traditionally, it has not been involved in issues such as land use development, affordable housing, estuaries, and other planning issues. The MTC voted unanimously on Oct. 28 to proceed with a study of a full comprehensive merger of the two regional agencies, Pierce said. “The original MTC proposal has been put on hold and all energies will be dedicated to this effort. This is a major milestone in our regional planning efforts. I would like to thank Supervisor Dave Cortese, Chair of MTC and ABAG Executive Board member, for leading this effort,” she said. “Now the heavy lifting begins.”

LOCAL REPRESENTATION Under the terms of the merger, MTC will provide the remaining six months of planning funds to ABAG until July, 2016. The agencies will retain a consultant to conduct a merger study and a implementation plan. The merger study will be directed by the Joint ABAG administrative Committee and MTC Planning Committee. And

finally, the original proposal to transfer ABAG planners to MTC is put on hold during the merger study. MTC’s original plan had worried so many local officials that many cities wrote letters of opposition to the plan, including Clayton and Concord. At the root of the opposition was MTC’s absorbing ABAG’s regional planners, something that ABAG officials like Pierce felt was not appropriate for a commission that was solely locked into traffic concerns. “We are in favor of one regional planning body,” Pierce told the Pioneer before the vote. “But it needs to have local representation, and with a few exceptions, MTC does not.” Other city officials in Contra Costa County weren’t so polite in their distrust of the MTC. Clayton Assistant City Manager and Concord City Councilmember Laura Hoffmeister reminded her colleagues at a recent council meeting when the issue was discussed that the MTC was in charge of the Bay Bridge redesign, and all the problems that have been recently associat-

ed with it. Others, like Concord City Councilman Dan Helix, said that the state and federal representatives would not be responsive to the needs and plans of local jurisdictions. Still, the idea of merging the two entities seems like a good idea to many, if only for economic reasons and to cut down on bureaucracy. “I believe the Bay Area is the only region in the state with two separate planning agencies,” Concord Mayor Tim Grayson said. “I would like to see how other regions merged, if indeed they did.” Regardless, it will be a large undertaking to merge the two agencies, Pierce said. “We have many issues of governance, planning tasks and organization to define,” she said. “We all need to be prepared for both challenges and opportunities that we will all face during the next eight months. This process will require not only MTC and ABAG Boards but local jurisdictions and stakeholders’ participation — the residents — if we are to create an agency that can truly serve the Bay Area.”

925-672-9955

www.nicholslandscape.com Lic. 542812 Fully Insured

Boyce Nichols - Owner Clayton Resident

Serving Contra Costa since 1991 More than 35 years experience

All Work Done by Owner Bonded & Insured Lic.#C10-631523

l l l

Professional Installation of:

Ceiling Fans, Recessed & Track Lighting Kitchen or Bath Remodel Exterior/Security/Landscape Lighting Electrical Service Upgrade Complete Home Wiring - Old & New Spa Installation l

www.BurkinElectric.net

Rental Centers Under New Ownership

Party and Special Event Rentals Equipment and Tool Rentals We believe good service is good business

James Burkin Sole Proprietor

INSPIRED REAL ESTATE

PITTSBURG 2150 Piedmont Way (925) 432-1600

Family Owned & Operated Clayton Resident

Pend in

Completely remodeled Regency Woods beauty with gorgeous newer kitchen and baths! Hardwood floors, new paint, crown, base, lighting, roof, HVAC, and spectacular Private Parklike Grounds! Offered at $785,000. www.808EberhardtCourt.com.

ing Pendiple Mult ers Off

A designer's thoughtful touch is in every aspect of this gorgeous 4 bedroom 2 bath residence. Radiating quality, elegance, and true upscale amenities and materials, the residence is a SINGLE LEVEL Clayton home not to miss! Offered at $799,000. www.554MountOlivetPlace.com

SOLD

Live in Walnut Creek and enjoy all of the spectacular amenities right outside your front door! The fabulous residence offers 2 master style bedrooms, 2.5 baths and gorgeous remodeled kitchen! Offered at $495,000. www.1964PomarWay.com

SOLD

See our website for a complete catalog of rental items

•Paver Patio & Walkway

•Retaining Walls •Drainage •Low Voltage Lighting

Residential Commercial Industrial

Wally’s

CONCORD 4286 Clayton Road (925) 685-1030

•Lawn & Plant Installation

“ Let Us Light Up Your Life”

Happy Thanksgiving from

Visit our showrooms

FREE ESTIMATES

Spectacular 4 bedroom, 3 bath! Walk to Golf Course and Shops — Offered at $489,000 www.4701CrestoneNeedleWay.com

Coming Soon

Spacious, Bright, and Beautiful Rossmoor Single Level. Surrounded by beautiful landscape and conveniently located to Community Facilities, Farmer's Market, and more. Call for more information!

STEPHANIE LOPEZ

Coldwell Banker “Top 100 San Francisco Bay Agent”

Est. 1946

www.wallysrentals.com

ASP Stager@ / Relocation Specialist

925.305.9099

www.HousesbyStephanie.com Realtor®, BRE#01370548

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Freedom, from page 1

ucin y y Eas a d n Su tening Lis 4-7pm g

Introd

us Live m

6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440 Entertainment from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Nov. 6, 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Plan B Nov. 13, 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Barefoot Country Nov. 20, 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Barrel House Nov. 27, 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Southbound Band Dec. 4, 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Crossman Country Karaoke Mon. & Wed. nights Open Mic Thur. nights, 8-11 pm

www.claytonclubsaloon.com

2 for the price of 1

Beer only. Good anytime with original coupon. Exp. 11/19/15

DON’T LET YOUR HEALTH BENEFITS SLIP AWAY

Most flex spending account plans require that you spend your money by Dec. 31 or risk losing it. These services may qualify for reimbursement:

Call today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam

Eye Examinations, Eyeglasses, Contact Lenses, Prescription Sunglasses, Computer Glasses

Use your FSA Benefit dollars before December 31!

9am - 5pm,Tue through Fri By appointment Sat & Mon

Foresight Optometry

to be fiercely independent. With limited education and options I did whatever I could to increase my skills so I’d never have to be dependent on others.” Many decades passed before Kohler spoke about his experiences. In 2010 he went back to Pearl Harbor and, with the help of a naval historian, he was able to stand on the spot where the first bomb hit. “Everything came back. Somewhere on that day, I lost a 17-year-old youth and aged about 20 years in one day.” What Chuck Kohler wants most of all, is for people to look to the beacon on Mt. Diablo that commemorates Pearl Harbor from sunset on Dec. 7 to sunrise on Dec. 8, and remember all the veterans who gave their lives so that we can enjoy our freedoms.

Pete Laurence, Army Vietnam Green Beret It may have been a generation after WWII, but young people, like Kohler, still felt the call to fight for their country.

Jeanette Hochstatter, OD 5442 Ygnacio Valley Rd. #180 925-672-4100 CLAYTON VALLEY CENTER

www.ForesightOptometry.com

Offering All-Season

Training & Riding Instruction

Private Riding Lessons Birthday Parties Camp l

CAMPS INCLUDE

w Horseback riding w Horse games w Free camp w Horsemanship T-shirt

PETE LAURENCE

Thanksgiving Camp

Nov. 23, 24 & 25

$300.

Limited camp size.

All Camps 9 am to 3 pm.

Winter Camp 1

Dec. 21, 22 & 23

Enrollment Form On-line 925.360.7454

November 6, 2015

3141 Morgan Territory Rd., Clayton

Winter Camp 2

Dec. 28-31

Winter Camp 2, $400.

or $100 per day any camp

www.EarthquakeArabians.com

Pete Laurence, a Clayton resident since 1954, was in the Yukon Territories working for a Bush Pilot service in 1964 when the Viet Nam conflict was heating up. Recalling President John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural speech imploring the next generation to do their part for America, the 19year old returned to the U.S. and enlisted in the Army with hopes of becoming a member

ROOMS HARD TO COOL? ROOMS HARD TO HEAT?

HEATING / AIR CONDITIONING Ductless Mini-split Systems

of the Special Forces. After a year in Korea as a Military Policeman, his tenacity and smarts got him into Special Forces training. This elite group, known as the Green Berets, spent 16 weeks learning the Vietnamese language and culture, as it would be their mission to work directly with the South Vietnamese people. As an A Team Weapons Sergeant with his 12 man team, he was eager to get to Vietnam to help the Vietnamese people fight Communism. His unit was welcomed by the villages they were sent there to help. Laurence says his unit was something like “the Peace Corp with guns.” They helped the villagers get their crops to market safely, delivered medical services, and became part of their community. In fact, Laurence was asked to be in several weddings during his time there. They also trained the villagers to defend themselves against the North Vietnamese Communists. They often found themselves in extreme danger, being fired upon or surrounded by the enemy. On occasion he barely escaped, carrying an injured soldier on his back. Laurence feels grateful for his experience serving but also for making it home. One of his good friends from Clayton Valley High School did not. His buddy Jerry Novakovich was killed in an ambush in 1968. As an only child, Novakovich did not have to go to Vietnam, but he volunteered to go anyway. Both these young men had strong determination to help their country, to do their part as the next generation of Americans, and to fight for freedom. When Laurence returned from his service he talked with high school and college students about Vietnam, correcting misunderstandings about the U.S. role there. He was an adamant defender of freedom because of what he saw with his own eyes – what the communist government of North Vietnam was doing to the people there. When Laurence visited the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C. he made rubbings of the names of Novakovich and three other of his friends lost to the war. He keeps those rubbings, framed, above his desk to remind himself every day to make the best life he can because they didn’t get the chance to. Deanna Ped, Air Force Senior Airman in Afghanistan While it is hard to remember the veterans who didn’t come home, it’s also difficult for veterans to think of those who were left behind at home. When Aiden Ped was a tiny infant in 2009, his grand-

EARL J. “CHUCK” KOHLER

mother would sing a song to him: “My mommy lies over the ocean, my mommy lies over the sea…” That’s because Aiden’s mom, Air Force Senior Airman Deanna Ped of Concord, was serving in Afghanistan, and missed most of the first year of her son’s life. Her husband, Matthew, a Marine, was also serving over-

DEANNA PED

seas, in the heart of the war zone. “Aiden was preemie, born two months early,” Deanna Ped says. “He was in the hospital for two months. Two months after he got out, I got the orders I was to report to training. ‘We need boots on the ground over there,’ I was told.” It was heartbreaking, Ped says, and an example of what many women and families faced in this latest war. Ped was part of an elite 13-person team stationed at Kandahar Airfield, and the first night she arrived, they suffered a rocket attack. “It was a blur. We were trained to fall on our stomachs, cover our heads and cross our legs.” It was the first of many “incoming” incidents she would face in the eight months she was in Afghanistan, and they soon became routine — as did the blistering 120-degree heat. “We had water, but it was always warm,” she says. “To this day I can’t drink cold water.” But Ped was a “queen” over there, earning accolades from the highest echelons of the Air Force. “Little did they know that while I did great things during the day, I would wake up screaming at night, or go off

by myself to write poems to my son. I felt so guilty to have had to leave him.” When she returned to the states, she said that at first she was “little more than a glorified babysitter to Aiden. “Then one day, I was holding him in front of a mirror, and he was looking back and forth, then suddenly he smiled and burrowed his head into my chest. He recognized his mom. And I’ve been mommy ever since. Ped and Matthew both retired from the service, and now have two more children: 3-year old Reid and 11month-old Ailey. But both parents suffer from bouts of PTSD — sometimes severe. “Being in the service gave me strength and a strong work ethic,” Ped says. “But it also taught me I’m never going to leave my kids again.”

Raymond Henderson, U.S. Army Sergeant, World War II (Merchant Marines), Korea, Vietnam Most veterans serve in one war, and will say that’s enough. Others, however, find themselves in throes of two, sometimes three different conflicts. Concord resident Raymond Henderson’s military

RAY HENDERSON

story begins in the Mission District of San Francisco, and ironically ends up there three wars later. Not much of student, Henderson, at 15, doctored his birth records in 1944 to gain entry into the Merchant Marines. “I was told by the captain of the ship we’d be gone six weeks, and then I’d better ‘get my ass in school.’”

See Freedom, page 7

November 6, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517

TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design P EGGY S PEAR , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration, Calendar Editor S TAFF W RITERS : Peggy Spear, Pamela Wiesendanger, Jay Bedecarré

C ORRESPONDENTS : John Jackson, Kara Navolio, Patricia Romero, John T. Miller

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

PIONEER INFO CONTACT US

Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 www.ClaytonPioneer.com

Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send School News to

schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com

LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on the website are forms for calendar items, events & press releases.

CIRCULATION as of Sept. 2014 Total circulation of the Clayton Pioneer is 5,500 to ZIP code 94517, all delivered by US Mail to homes and businesses.. We cannot start or stop delivery to individual addresses. This must be done directly through the Post Office. The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,500 in Concord by carrier. Papers are delivered once a month on a Friday morning near the end of the month. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please call us or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon. SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $35/year for each paper, $60/year for both.

Homecoming, from page 1

“I feel it’s great that there was a change in scenery during the lineup,” said student Isaiah Thurman. “It seems as though the popular crowd would usually win, but in a way, the underdogs won this time.” Anna is president of Spectrum, which is a club at CVCHS that supports members of the LGBTQ+ community. She is also the vice-president of CV Senior Men. She plays the French horn and in the future, she says she would like to become a music educator. Veronica, who was crowned queen, is a member of the Clayton Arts Academy and show choir. She is also the captain for the CVCHS drama and improv troupe. In her spare time, she loves to paint, sing and dance. She plans on graduating college with an emphasis in musical theater and wants to travel to Africa to join the Peace Corps. Not all students, however, share the enthusiasm for the break in tradition. Various comments and conversations about gender neutrality came up on different social media platforms. One student on Twitter mentioned, “I’m gonna say it again, but letting a female win homecoming ‘king’ is stupid.” Another student vented on the social media platform to say, “Letting two girls be homecoming king and queen is like having lesbian parents and still calling them ‘mom’ and ‘dad.’”

Some thought the crowning of a female king cast a negative light on the school. Veronica disagrees. “We’re a society that’s constantly changing and we need to allow ourselves to change and grow.” Others said that CVCHS wasn’t ready to break a tradition that was held for more than 50 years. Even with controversy, the Homecoming title raises awareness about the LGBTQ+ community. Students were witnessing more same-sex couples at Homecoming festivities and more felt comfortable expressing their sexual orientation. “There are a lot of things targeted against [the LGBTQ+ community],” Anna says. “This election brings visibility. The more you see, the more you accept.” Other students also felt more comfortable expressing their sexual orientation to peers. The school administration also said that it was a significant step into the future of CVCHS. “I think it was absolutely awesome,” Director of Student Services Miguel Romo said. “I think it reflects our times here as a society and that we are very accepting of different viewpoints and perspectives. It was beautiful to see that everyone was accepting of the night and that situation.” Celine Herrera is a senior at CVCHS and editor-in-chief of The Talon, the school newspaper.

FREE estimates Specializing in Bathrooms and Kitchens l

Remodeling Windows/Doors l Crown Molding l Overhangs l Decks l Siding l Trim l

Declan Woods 925.216.2679 Clayton Resident

Tipperary Construction Inc.

General Contractor,

license# 783799, B, HIC

TipperaryConstruction.com

Now accepting major credit cards

Former councilwoman and city advocate dead at 81 Jeanne Musto, former Clayton resident and colorful civic figure, died on Oct. 8 at the Courtyards at Pine Creek in Concord from complications of vascular dementia. She was 81. Musto was a resident of Clayton for over 40 years and was active in city politics, serving on the Clayton city council for only one four-year term. “She felt she was better suited to her work as a private citizen,” recalls Councilwoman Julie Pierce. “She rarely missed a council meeting, ever.” “She was delightful,” says Pierce. “She was one of the strongest advocates the city ever had.” Musto was proud of her

many “crafting” skills and of her baking prowess. Her neighbors always looked forward to her baking treats. She spent the last 25 years cruising the world. Around town and probably around the world, she was easily recognized by her eccentric attire. Musto is survived by a son, a brother and numerous grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Don; her daughter, Michelle and her oldest brother, Robert. There will be no services, however memorial donations may be sent to The Dementia Support Group at www.alzfdn.org.

Freedom, from page 6 Well, eight months later, he arrived back. He took one look at Mission High School, where he was supposed to attend, turned around and reupped on a merchant ship. He sailed in wartime and peacetime, until in 1947, he decided he wanted off the ships. So he decided to enlist in the Army, and become a paratrooper. Ironically, he wanted to see if he had any animosity against Japan — “I lost two brothers in the Pacific,” he says — so he chose to be stationed there. “I ended up feeling sorry for the Japanese,” he says. “There’s no glory in war.” He stayed there until 1950, when he joined the Military Police. He was on his way back to the Bay Area to take a leave, when the Korean War broke out. He was part of the 7th Military Police Company, and sent back to Japan. His was one of the last units to leave for the Korean front, protecting supply lines. Eventually the Chinese forced a retreat. From there he headed back to San Francisco’s presidio, but he didn’t connect with the friends he had left behind. So when he had a chance, he took a post as an MP in Austria, where he met his wife. He stayed there for several years as part of an elite, multi-national peacekeeping unit, but returned to the states to Ft. Lewis, Washington, where he was bodyguard for a general. But in 1964 he was called to active duty again, this time in Viet Nam. “I wasn’t so lucky there,” he said. “I was injured in a mortar shell explosion and received the Purple Heart.” He was sent home and this time, decided he would use his training experience to help others. His first assignment? Taking over the “troubled” ROTC program at Mission High School. He loved the job, and ended up staying there until he “graduated” with the class of 1991 — even though he has already completed his GED years before. “The military gave me an education and a love of modern military history,” the 86year-old says. “After all, I lived it.”

Page 7

Directory of Advertisers

Business Services Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . .672-8717

Construction and Trades Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700 Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144 Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500 Hammercraft Construction . . . . . . . . . . . .209-814-9412 J.A. Ronco Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .872-3049 Schaefer’s Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-6065 Soto HVAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .497-7426 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679

Dining and Entertainment Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440 Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Education Clayton Valley Charter High School . . . . . . . . .682-7474

Employment City of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-7304 Events Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . .800-949-3276

Financial, Insurance and Legal Services Archvest Wealth Advisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .215-5600 DuRee, Daniel – The Law Office of . . . . . . . . .210-1400 Littorno, Richard – The Law Office of . . . . . . . .432-4211 Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . .672-2300 Flowers A Floral Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .705-3088

Funerals Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242

STEVE BARTON

ice in 1968. He then spent the remainder of his first year in paratrooper training and noncommissioned officers training. With his expert rating in rifle and machine gun, he was sent to Vietnam in January 1969 as a sergeant in light infantry. His unit was sent to the Hobo Woods, which was heavy with the Viet Cong forces and in an area that is now known for its extensive tunnels built by the enemy to quickly move from place to place. He saw heavy fighting and lost friends, as did most soldiers serving during this time. He was awarded a Combat Infantry Badge, Army Commendation, and earned a promotion to Staff Sergeant. It would be another 34 years before Barton would learn he also was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service in a combat zone. Barton regrets that his father did not live long enough to see him receive this medal. His father had earned two Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts in WWII. Upon his discharge at the end of 1969, Barton began a 26-year career with Bank of America. After extensive travel around the world with his job, Barton and his wife and two children settled in Clayton in 1987. Barton now is part owner of the Clayton Club Saloon and active in the Clayton Business and Community Association. As Barton reflects on his service, he says, “You learn that when a soldier goes down, it is only by sheer luck that it wasn’t you. You realize that you are lucky to be here, back home, and you have to take responsibility for coming home. You have to do the right thing always, whether it’s easy or you are in the midst of a war.” Part of the responsibility he feels is reflected in his philanthropic activities with CBCA. And on Veterans Day and Memorial Day, he offers all veterans a free drink at the Clayton Club. He wants them to know they are appreciated.

Staff Sergeant Steve Barton Vietnam Even though Steve Baron didn’t choose to serve in the Army, he says he wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. After graduating from high school in Westwood, CA, Barton attended college for two-and-a-half years. At Concord Pioneer writers John that time the college defer- Miller, Kara Navolio and Peggy ment was only two years; he Spear contributed to this article. was drafted and began serv-

Health and Wellness Assistance League of Diablo Valley . . . . . . . . .934-0901 Foresight Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4100

Home and Garden Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Clean Cleaner Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .383-1253 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Silvia’s Housecleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .350-9179 Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-5609 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 The Royal Rooster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2025 Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055 Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services Postal Annex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5246 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245

Pet Services Pittsburg Pet Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-7387 Photography Rochellez Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-677-4170

Real Estate and Mortgage Services Bennett, Nancy – Keller Williams . . . . . . . . . . .606-8400 Clayton Fair Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-0324 French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . .672-8787 Hayes, Diane and Bill – Better Homes Realty .890-4701 Howard, Don – Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .408-3184 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593 Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . .932-7329 Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . .567-6170 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness All Out Sports League . . . . . . .www.blazetravelball.com Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .360-7454 Services, Other ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029 Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . .682-4518 Wally’s Rental Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-1030

Travel Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840 Holiday Section Clayton Business and Community Association 672-2272 Clayton Mind and Body Connections . . . . . . . .673-0686 Wood Rose Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-4644

Respect

Do the Right Thing

Schools

Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

November 6, 2015

October saw CVCHS out in the community October was a “fast and furious” month of fantastic happenings here at Clayton Valley Charter High School. Here are a few highlights from our student organizations that have taken their “Commitment to Citizenship” outside of the four walls of the campus. Their participation and contribution to community service is just one example of how our students take CV’s mission seriously – emphasizing that character matters. These students and

ISAIAH THURMAN

CVCHS

CORRESPONDENT

With a Nov. 30 UC and CSU application deadline right around the corner, seniors at Clayton Valley Charter High School are finding themselves in a state of peril as they try to prepare for college. To plan out the future for their lives after high school, students across campus are determining which college and major they’re interested in. Many seniors have been waiting for this moment to come for years, but not all of them feel ready to move on. Out of 242 students, 57 percent of students would like

their school leaders are shining the light on all that is deserving here in our community. October was National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and two of our athletic programs joined together in support of the American Cancer Society’s fight to end breast cancer. CVCHS football and girls’ volleyball programs demonstrated their support by wearing pink and raising funds. Our football program was honored with a visit by Oakland

Raider alumni Morgan Bradshaw, presenting an award for the team’s outstanding work raising money and awareness for the NFL’s “Crucial Catch” high school program. Our team raised more than $4,000 – the highest fundraising high school in California during their Pink Game last year. Our Lady Eagles Volleyball program hosted its annual “Dig Pink” game to bring awareness to end breast cancer. This year’s game raised nearly $3,700. Way

College stress can sour senior year to go to a four year university, 36 percent want to attend a community college, 2 percent are going to trade schools, 2 percent are entering the military, another 2 percent plan on doing something else, and 1 percent are going straight to work or are going to be working students. Seniors may be feeling confused and overwhelmed, but Cindy Edwards, a guidance counselor, recommends that students who haven’t started applications yet do a college search on Naviance. Naviance is an online program that can assist students with finding a college with the major they are interested in and what their chances are of being accepted. It’s not a very wise decision to wait until the last minute, since some websites can crash from having too

many people on them at the same time. Seniors should start to gather information for their college applications if they haven’t already. The seniors of CVCHS have been given information about college applications, but not all of them know where to start. It’s been a struggle for students to cope with everything that’s being thrown their way, and time is running out. Although senior year can be fun once in awhile, it can also be quite stressful because of things such as college applications. Sometimes, you wish you weren’t a senior.

to bring it, Lady Eagles. The (pink) icing on the cake – a solid WIN against College Park. In addition, our Public Service Academy hosted a canned food drive during our Homecoming celebration. CVCHS students displayed selfless and generous acts by collecting hundreds of cans for the “Let’s Can Hunger” program. Canned food collected will help benefit local non-profit organizations that provide and improve local access to sufficient food resources for individuals and families in need. And finally, I would like to report a highlight that extends CVCHS’ reach across the globe. Last month, I had the privilege of hosting a delegation from the Republic of China. Business and education leaders representing

one of China’s premier education foundations visited our community to learn more about CVCHS’s curriculum and our successes incorporating creativity in core subjects and afterschool programs. The foundation, sponsored by China’s Ministry of Education, is seeking to bridge their students’ academic achievement gap through the accomplishments of model schools in America. What an amazing opportunity to share the positive happenings at CVCHS and to forge a new relationship with global education partners. October certainly exemplified our vision for creating a Community of Citizens. I’m proud of the impact our students make in our local commu-

DAVID LINZEY VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE

nity. Citizenship has become embedded in the very culture of this community, interwoven into its identity, and is the vision for our student body. Not only does this work in a single classroom, but it extends within our local community and throughout the world. David Linzey is executive director of CVCHS. Contact him David.linzey@claytonvalley.org

Community partnerships fuel STEM education

DR. NELLIE MEYER

MDUSD

Isaiah Thurman is a senior at SUPERINTENDENT CVCHS. He is involved with Mt. Diablo Unified is very CSF, cross country, and the engiexcited about building our Scineering student council. Je plans to ence, Technology, Engineering, major in Engineering. and Math (STEM) programs. To this end, we want to share some

of the new initiatives we are working on to support our students. First, we are thrilled to have the partnership of Tesoro, sponsoring robotics classes at all of our middle schools. Tesoro is a valuable partner in our STEM efforts. This year with their help, we will expand our girls STEM summer camp and our robotics programs. Robotics is taught after school and within the day as electives. We thank Tesoro for their sponsorship of our Tech Education Symposium to be held Feb. 20 at Valley View Middle School. Secondly, our engineering classes at our middle and high

New leadership needs to unite CVCHS PABLO HERNANDEZ AND TOMMY VO

TEEN SPEAK

As Clayton Valley Charter High School students recently said goodbye to a great number of teachers and staff, many questions arise on how it is affecting their education. With the voluntary resignation of 25 teachers and staff members since May of 2014, the situation has undoubtedly changed the landscape on campus. With the addition of Principal Jeff Eben, several new teachers, and with Executive Director Dave Linzey now working off campus, this school has undergone serious change. There is an influx of new faces, new leadership and new attitudes. Last year, some former teachers said that the administration brought a hostile environment on campus. This led to many teachers, including former chemistry teacher Tori Campbell, to voluntarily resign in the middle of the year. Campbell wrote a letter about her tenure at the school to the Contra Costa County Board of Education. In her letter, published online by the community group Stakeholders for Transparency, she states: “I would like to state one simple truth: I left CV mid-year because I was miserable working there ... People who are ‘proadministration’ are rewarded and people who are ‘anti-administration’ are shunned or disciplined.” Campbell’s resignation was only one of many. Several teachers who were students’ favorites, like Cate Sundling, Jenny Krnich

and Christine Reimer, have departed from the school partially as a result of the conflict between teachers and administration. Current math teacher Robert Bergman comments on the recent departures of his colleagues. “I think people have to do what’s best for themselves, their health and their family. While many of them fought the good fight, many of them just gave up.” ASB President Hosna Opeyany said that it was the students who ultimately “took the hit. “It was a domino effect,” she said. “Their problems took a toll on us and inevitably became our problem, too. There was a lack of unity and the feel of a family. This year has a different vibe and feel to it, in a good way. I think student voices are now being heard. We are making good strides towards the future.” With the new school year already on its track, many new faces around campus are ready to take on the challenge of promoting a healthy learning environment for students. New principal Eben said, “ My whole thing about work since I’ve been here is to build a positive culture.” Regardless of what happened before, each side can agree on one thing: students and their education matter. It seems to be a consensus that more needs to be done to provide a prosperous environment on campus. Many on each side can agree the administration and teachers must create a unified bond in order to serve the main priority at school, the students. Pablo Hernandez and Tommy Vo are seniors at CVCHS.

schools are providing excellent preparation for college and careers. With the support of our partners at Chevron, our Project Lead the Way classes now start at elementary school and go up through our high schools. These courses teach the principals of engineering with hands on projects and industry experiences. Lastly, we are part of a countywide effort to increase computer science with the CODE.org organization. Each year we participate in the week of code but we want to make this a year-round event. We hope to provide professional development and lessons for interested teachers from K-12 that introduce the skill of coding within math and science classes. Thank you for your support as we work hard to improve our students’ educational experience. Dr. Nellie Meyer is superintendent of schools for MDUSD. Email questions and comments to meyern@mdusd.com

DVMS students show support against drugs

NATALIE PURSCHE

DVMS CORRESPONDENT

During the week of Oct. 26, the DVMS school leadership team and students held the annual “Red Ribbon Week,” promoting drug and alcohol awareness. Each day of the week represented a different spirit day and topic, starting with Monday’s “Show Some Self-respect! Don’t do drugs!” when students wore red to show self-respect. Later in the day, they listened to Tyler Durman, an inspirational speaker who the students said was “phenomenal and funny.” Durman, originally a teacher, now speaks to more than 200,000 teenagers each year to raise awareness for issues such as cyber-bullying, relationship abuse and addiction. Durman says, “Pain can often be your

See DVMS, page 9

Lawn-to-garden rebates refresh yards November 6, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

JENNIFER MARKLE Special to the Pioneer

Clayton residents John and Linda Perkins took advantage of the Contra Costa Water District’s and the state Lawn to Garden’s rebate programs to transform their front lawn into a beautiful garden. The design for the front landscape was done by the Perkins themselves. With the CCWD rebate program, residents get a rebate towards an approved designer. The landscape was installed by Diablo Lawnscape. Jared and Jennifer Markle are the owners of Diablo Lawnscape and also Clayton residents. Diablo Lawnscape is a full service landscape company offering design, maintenance and landscape construction services. Converting your lawn to a drought resistant garden is a great way to save water. The plants are watered with a drip irrigation system vs. a sprinkler head, resulting in a dramatic water savings. The drip irrigation system used for the Perkins home is called Netafim. Netafim offers a low maintenance, durable and cost-efficient system. The plants are watered directly, providing less run-off, resulting in fewer weeds and healthier plants. For landscape depth and texture there is a Lodi river rock dry creek bed, which will help with

Before

After

NO LONGER IS A LUSH GREEN LAWN a suburban status symbol. Clayton homeowners John and Linda Perkins prove that a beautiful front yard can be low maintenance, drought tolerand and economical.

lawn to qualify. You must fill out an application prior to completing any work. Rebates are offered for both residential and commercial properties. Links to applications are provided below. Residential homeowners can earn up to $1,000 ($1 per square foot) from both programs. Commercial properties are eligible for larger rebates. Once residents have submitted their applications, the CCWD will do a site inspection and send the homeowner an approval letter to proceed. Residents will receive a letter from the State of California as well with approval to proceed. At this time, you will want to contact an approved designer from the CCWD list of designers. Residents have six months to complete the installation with the CCWD and 90 days to complete your installation with the state. The state is only accepting a limited number of applications. For more information, contact the Contra Costa Water District Lawn to Garden Rebate Program at www.ccwater.com/160/RebateInformation and click the “Steps to Participate” link. Info on the state rebate program is available at www.SaveOurWaterRebates.com or 1-844-642-7410. For a free quote on lawn-to-garden design, contact Diablo Lawnscape 925-381-3757 or Jared@diablolawnscape.com.

runoff of rain during the rainy season. The Perkins also added large 1,200-1,800-pound moss rock boulders and a natural flagstone pathway with matching flagstone paver porch. For mulching the Perkins used a medium redwood bark. Putting in bark or mulching around plants is a great way to save water as well; the mulch keeps the water from evaporating around the plants and helps as a weed blocker. There is an approved list of drought resistant plants, trees and shrubs to choose from. The list is

quite extensive and a designer will help residents choose a plant list for installation. The garden comes to life at night with a FX Lumiaire ZDC landscape lighting system. The system includes zone dimming and color changing capability. The system is Wi-Fi controlled. The Perkins are loving their new front yard and couldn’t be happier with their decision to convert their lawn to a garden. The rebate programs are currently offered are for front yards only. You must have an inground sprinkler system and

back, and/or talking about the joys and effort of writing. These weekly get-togethers are just one of the local programs inspired by The National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) organization, which challenges professionals and non-professional writers to try their hand at creating the next great read. “Writing can be an isolated endeavor and being part of a community of writers can make a difference in what we accomplish,” says Clayton resident Christa Fairfield, a member of the California Writers Club, Mt. Diablo branch. To that end, she and others in Clayton are creating a “Write In” group where the community is invited to come together to

inspire and support each other in their writing efforts throughout the month of November.” She says NaNoWriMo provides a structure for innovation that “adds a secondary level of inspiration and support through the online community one joins when they sign-up for NaNoWriMo.” NaNoWriMo is a nonprofit organization that celebrates diverse voices, and encourages everyone to tell their stories. For the past 10 years, NaNoWriMo participants reserve the month of November to get down to work and write their stories. Last November, spanning six continents, NaNoWriMo welcomed 325,142 writers. Of those participants, 58,917 writers hit their goal

of completing a 50,000-word draft of a novel. These incredible statistics would not be possible without support systems. NaNoWriMo has various programs suited for every writer, including school programs, resources for libraries, and community centers, and a “virtual” writing retreat. NaNoWriMo volunteers provide support to members through local writing groups, working on concepts for their novels, and simply gathering with others who enjoy writing. For more on joining the local chapter of California Writers Club, visit cwcmtdiablowriters. wordpress.com. For more information about NaNoWriMo, visit www.nanowrimo.org.

best teacher.” Tuesday, students wore tiedye shirts to symbolize how drugs can mess up your body. Tuesday was also called “Truthful Tuesdays: Face the Facts, Drugs aren’t Healthy.” Wednesday was Superhero Day. Students wore superhero logos and colors to promote, “Be Your Own Hero and Stay Away From Drugs!” Thursday was Crazy Sock Day and students wore colorful socks, promoting “Be True to Yourself: Stand Tall Against Drugs!”

Friday, the last day of “Red Ribbon Week,” ended with the theme “Say BOO to Drugs.” Students wore Halloween costumes, or the color orange in honor of drug awareness. Students then showed off their costumes with a Halloween costume fashion show in the amphitheater.

Schaefer’s PAINTING

Interior & Exterior Popcorn Ceilings

Page 9 Fall S

ecial 1 any i 0 Of f n teri terior o p

r int jo exb ion th is

or pa

ment

Sheetrock, Texture Cabinet Refinishing

Bryan Schaefer

Clayton Resident License #708321

(925) 260-6065

Family Trade since 1936

JENNIFER LEISCHERR Correspondent

Can you imagine writing a novel, 50,000 words to be exact, in one month? Thinking through the logistics, do you duck tape yourself to your desk chair and just write continuously? Does this mean no sleep, no food for 30 days while you focus on your masterpiece? If that sounds too hard — but writing a novel in a month still sounds intriguing — join local writers every Monday evening in November from 7 to 8:30 pm at St. Bonaventure’s Catholic Church, 5562 Clayton Road, in Room A1. There will be an hour of quiet writing and a half-hour of connections, feed-

Pioneer seeks MDES student correspondent

Attention MDES students: Do you like to be on top of everything that is happening in your school? Have a strong interest in current events? Love to read and have opinions on books? The Clayton Pioneer is seeking a student correspondent from Mt. Diablo Elementary to contribute news items and commentary once a month.

Student correspondents must have good writing skills; spelling, punctuation and grammar. Send an email telling us why you want to be a correspondent to tamara@claytonpioneer.c om with your email and phone number. Feel free to share your thoughts on possible stories and/or topics.

Keep your packages safe & sound during this holiday season at postal annex. For a small fee, we will keep your packages to be picked up at our location!

PostalAnnex97, Clayton Station Shopping Center 5433 Clayton Rd. #K, Clayton, CA 94517

Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM, Sat: 9:30AM-4PM Sun: Closed

DVMS, from page 8

License # 958849

Try writing a book this month

Design • Installation • Maintenance Commercial & Residential • 925-381-3757

Clayton Fair Properties For Lease

Concord – Commercial Office, 1722 sq. ft., fresh paint, new carpet, light and bright. Excellent location. Contact Maureen (925)

685-0324

Natalie Pursche is in the seventh grade at Diablo View Middle School. She is an avid reader, enjoys writing, and loves to spend time with her friends and family. Send comments to natalie@claytonpioneer.com.

925-250-0334 FREE ESTIMATES

Owners Dustin & Kim Waraner Contractors Lic #879423 Arborist Lic WE-7372A

www.waranertreeexperts.com

925-672-7920

6160 Center St, Clayton CA carol@interiorspanache.com

Call email foor appointmr an e today nt

www.interiorspanache.com

Full-Service Design Firm

• Remodels, Kitchens & Baths • Design consultations • Hunter Douglas Priority Dealer • 21 years of design experience – model homes, commercial • Major furniture brands & residential at a discount • Clayton resident for 15 years • Licensed general contractor

* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/15/15 – 12/7/15 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. A qualifying purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the product models set forth above in the quantities set forth above. If you purchase less than the specified quantity, you will not be entitled to a rebate. Offer excludes Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection of Silhouette® Window Shadings. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. © 2015 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas. HOL15MB5

Page 10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

November 6, 2015

Club News

CBCA elects new board

We repair all major appliances, most major brands, and we’re local

Over 35 years Experience

Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer Clayton residents

Office: (925) 672-2700 Cell: (925) 956-8605

State of California B.E.A.R license #A44842

http://ApplianceRepairsbyBruce.com

Joe Ronco/Owner 925-872-3049 jaroncoconstruction.com

35 years Clayton/ Concord resident Lic#844344

DON’T LET YOUR HEALTH BENEFITS SLIP AWAY

Most flex spending account plans require that you spend your money by Dec. 31 or risk losing it. These services may qualify for reimbursement:

Call today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam

Eye Examinations, Eyeglasses, Contact Lenses, Prescription Sunglasses, Computer Glasses

Use your FSA Benefit dollars before December 31!

9am - 5pm,Tue through Fri By appointment Sat & Mon

Foresight Optometry Jeanette Hochstatter, OD 5442 Ygnacio Valley Rd. #180 925-672-4100 CLAYTON VALLEY CENTER

Doug Van Wyck

CLU ChFC, Agent Insurance Lic. # 0586396

6200 Center St. Ste. A Clayton, CA 94517

925-672-2300

www.dougvanwyck.com

1101000.1

www.ForesightOptometry.com

The Clayton Business and Community Association elected their 2016 officers at the regular meeting on Oct. 29. President elect Bob Steiner assumed leadership in a bitter sweet passing of the gavel. At the same meeting the club honored and bid farewell to past president and long-time member, Gregg Manning. Manning and his wife Joan are moving to Massachusetts early next year. Steiner, co-publisher of the Pioneer newspapers and a retired banker, is looking forward to an active year as the club continues its operating transition to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. Debbie Geller and Cindy Haydon were both reelected to the board as first and second vice-presidents, respectively. Paul Jordon was re-elected to treasurer. New to the board is Brenda Safreed as secretary. Safreed was travelling on business and was not present at the meeting.

Letter to the Editor

CBCA 2016 board of directors: Bob Steiner, president; Debbie Geller, first vice-president-programs; Cindy Haydon, second vice-president-membership and Gregg Manning, past president.

The CBCA has just recently come off of a very successful Oktoberfest celebration. Oktoberfest and the spring Art and Wine Festival are the two major fundraising festivals mounted by the club during the year. When the Oktoberfest final accounting is complete, it is expected that the net proceeds from this year’s event will exceed $120,000, said

event co-chair, Marilyn Schmidt. The two events provide the majority of the funds that are returned to the community each year in the form of grants, scholarships and civic projects.

A big thanks goes out to the hundreds of volunteers who helped make Clayton’s 12th Annual Oktoberfest a huge success. All profits from this event will be donated back into the community by the Clayton Business & Community Association (CBCA) (a 501c3 organization). Mary Ann Lawrence Event Chair

Eagle Scout Project benefits Markham Park

For membership information, call (925) 672-2272 or go to claytoncbca.org.

2015 was banner year for Clayton Valley Woman’s Club support of Contra Costa Blue Star Moms

The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club adopted the Contra Costa Blue Star Moms as a service project several years ago and donates to care packages that the Blue Star Moms send to overseas troops for July 4 and the holiday season. In 2015, Clayton Valley Woman’s Club members donated approximately $1,800 towards postage and supplies, prepared nearly 800 creamersugar-stir stick packets, folded and stacked over 1200 Sunday comics and sewed more than 250 patriotic pillow cases for the care packages. The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club meets at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of the month, except July and August, at Saint John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. Guests are welcome to attend meetings and social events. For more information, call Sheila at (925) 672-7947 or go to claytonvalleywomansclub.org.

Clayton Valley Woman’s Club members Connie Weimar, president, and Kathleen Horvath, Blue Star Moms service project chairman, show items collected by members at the October meeting for the holiday care package donations to Blue Star Moms.

Julian Rike, Life Scout with Boy Scout Troop 444, completed his Eagle Project at Markham Nature Park in October. Julian decided to put his passion for the outdoors and his conservation practices as a Scout Leave No Trace trainer to work for the community. He spearheaded a project to remove invasive palm trees along the creek in the park and replace them with native and drought tolerant plants and trees. Scouts from neighboring troops helped Julian and others from Clayton’s Troop 444 complete the project. Julian is hoping to have his Eagle board review and make the rank in November.

Clayton Valley Woman’s Club 2015 busy year catalogued in library display case

I thank you for your continued business. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL ME TODAY

Stop by the Clayton Community Library during October to view the library’s display case, which is devoted to activities of the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club. The case includes the new 2015-2016 membership directory, a list of service projects, a list of upcoming 2015 events, a list of annual fundraisers and pictures of some of the previous spring fundraiser tables. The Clayton Valley

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

Woman’s Club is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs International. The Clayton Woman’s Club was organized and federated in 1973 and was incorporated in 1982. In 2002, members voted to change the name to GFWC Clayton Valley Woman’s Club to better reflect the membership. For more information about the club, go to www.claytonvalleywomansclub.org.

A Name to Remember in a Time of Need

Michael Nicosia, Managing Partner John & Sharon Ouimet • Don & Bea Ouimet

925.682.4242

• fax 925.682.4281

Dignified Professional Services Complete Funeral Services Cremation & Memorialization Services Worldwide Shipping Arrangements Pre-Need Planning

4125 Clayton Road, Concord, CA 94521 OUIMETBROTHERS.COM

November 6, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 11

Pets

Holidays can be hairy for pets DEBBIE DEMELLO

PAUSE

FOR

PETS

The holidays bring delicious food and drink, decorations, holiday plants and lots of company. While all these things bring joy to our homes they can all pose certain problems for our furry friends. Of course you want to include your pets in the festivities as much as possible but as you celebrate this holiday season it’s good to take some necessary precautions. Some things to consider are holiday plants. Many of them are poisonous to both dogs and cats. Holly, mistletoe, poinsettias and many types of lilies are common poisonous plants. Some plants may cause vomit-

SUNNY SOLOMON

FOR

THE

BOOKS

Having recently finished reading children’s author Kate DiCamillo’s Newbery Medal winning “Flora & Ulysses” (Candlewick Press), I’m going to go out on a limb and recommending not only “Flora & Ulysses,” but everything this woman writes. With the holidays almost at hand, and hoping that books are high on your gift-giving lists, may I suggest to parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles or anyone wondering what book to buy for that early-to middle reader on your list that you consider choosing a book by DiCamillo? Let’s start with “Flora & Ulysses, The Illuminated Adventures.” Mind you, your special reader may already be into chapter books, but please don’t dismiss anything simply because it’s illustrated. This book is marketed for kids from eight to 13, but phooey, it works for ages 13 on up. What’s it about? Um, a squirrel, a vacuum, a young girl? In DiCamillo’s own words: “I set

ing and diarrhea in your dog or cat and some may cause organ failure and death. Ask your veterinarian if you have specific questions but a good rule of thumb is to keep pets away from all holiday plants. Although a Christmas tree is not poisonous it still poses a hazard. Make sure your tree is in a stable stand and secured. Both dogs and cats can be attracted to shiny ornaments and tinsel. It’s best not to leave pets unsupervised around the tree at all. Along with all the decorating comes visitors. Some pets enjoy lots of company while some become over-stimulated and stressed, which can lead to bad behaviors such as jumping on people or even biting. It’s good to have a safe spot available for your pet during these times. A spare bedroom away from the festivities with fresh water, some toys and a comfortable place to sleep is a good idea. Use precaution to keep your pet from slipping out the front door. With all the people coming in and out it can be easy for a pet to sneak out. Make

For more information and an application please call (925) 673-7304 or visit

www.ci.clayton.ca.us Tempting as it might be to share holiday treats, save the Christmas cookies for Santa. Chocolate can be highly toxic for dogs. sure your pet’s identification tag and microchip are up to date. If you plan on throwing a holiday party consider leaving a cute, festive note on the food table to remind guests not to share holiday treats with the pets. Drinking glasses (especially ones with alcohol) and plates should always be kept out of reach of pets. Consider feeding your pets right before guests arrive so they are less tempted to beg. Sweet, fatty and spicy foods that we eat during the holidays are not good for pets

DiCamillo captivates readers young and old out to tell the story of a vacuum cleaner and a squirrel. I ended up writing a book about superheroes, cynics, poetry, love, giant donuts, little shepherdess lamps, and how we are all working to find our way home.” Flora and the squirrel (named Ulysses after the vacuum cleaner that sucked him up), enliven DiCamillo’s world and touch our hearts in unexpected ways. Like all DiCamillo’s books for middle readers, their story begs to be read aloud. The author never, ever writes down to her readers, and the vocabulary found in this and other stories may require a nearby dictionary: “Cynic”? “Malfeasance”? “Preternatural”? The illustrations, some in comic book style, only serve to enhance the depth of emotions just below the surface of the duo’s funny antics. Illustrations accompanying text (a key element of most of DiCamillo’s books) often give readers, both young and old, a reason to pause and maybe see what was just read in a different light. For the young, beginning reader there is DiCamillo’s Mercy Watson animal series, stories of the Watson family’s

The City of Clayton is currently accepting applications for Police Administrative Clerk. Salary Range $3434 - $4173 per month plus benefits. A city application is required to be completed and may be obtained at City Hall. Applications will be accepted until Friday, Nov. 6 at 5 p.m. (postmarks will not be accepted).

rambunctious pet pig. My own favorites for the older, middle reader are “The Magician’s Elephant,” “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane,” “The Tiger Rising,” “Because of Winn-Dixie,” “The Tale of Desperaux,” and a Christmas picture book that will take your breath away, “Great Joy.” DiCamillo writes with an eye and ear for the human condition, with its joys, its sorrows and its hopes. She writes with depth, humor, intelligence and more kindness that any children’s author I can think of. She is the sort of writer whose stories we should all want our children to be reading, especially in today’s world of isolated Internet reading and viewing. Taking the time to sit and read with or to our kids should never go out of style. Add to that the great fun of talking to our kids about what we’ve just read. Visit your favorite bookstore, in person or online. Kate DiCamillo’s books belong on the bookshelves of every family. 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.’

and cause an upset stomach or even a life-threatening illness. The holidays can be both a wonderful and a stressful time. The constant stream of visitors, parties and travelling can take a toll on both you and your pet. Try to spend some quality time alone with your pet every day.

Resort, Spa, Salon

Extraordinary Care for your Pet l

Open 7 days a week

Fully staffed & monitored 24/7

10% off Boarding & Grooming services with this ad (Not valid on major holidays)

Exotic Pets Welcome!

Debbie DeMello is a dog trainer and owner of Who’s Training Who in Walnut Creek. Contact her at debdemello@aol.com

Josie Van Fleet, Owner & Operator (925) 432-PETS (7387) 671 Willow Pass Road #6, Pittsburg

PittsburgPetResort.com

Enjoy this single level detached home with no stairs, a gourmet kitchen, hardwood and new carpeted floors, base and crown molding and lean as a whistle! Central air, forced air heat, dual pane windows, a fireplace, recent electrical and plumbing fixtures, and immaculate! A two-car garage with rear door also, a separate party patio, lush landscaping and only about one mile from the Pleasant Hill freeway access ramps. .See it quick, before it's gone! Call your agent or call Pete at (925) 890-6004

The time is NOW

Immaculate home

for starter or retiring!

Call Pete today to sell your home

Pete Laurence

Broker, Realtor, GRI DRE#00344166.

ReMax Real Estate Walnut Creek office Selling Clayton & all Contra Costa

(925) 890-6004 KNOWLEDGE

Taxi service available

Rossmoor Elegance! Why not retire to Rossmoor living with golf, tennis, activities, security gate, and relaxed living! This upgraded 2 Bdrm, 2 bath with 1,400+ sq ft and a garage has terrific views over the golf course and hills, a quiet location and is on one level without stairs. $609,000

SOLD!

SERVICE

INTEGRITY

Serving Northern California for Over 30 Years

l l

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

l l l l l

(925) 831-2323

Lic. #642272 Certified Arborist WE-3386A

RESULTS

Residential & Commercial

FREE ESTIMATES

Specializing in Large Hazardous Trees & Heritage Oak trees Crane Service Tree & Stump Removal Arborist Consulting Arborist Reports Pruning/Cabling Fire Abatement Custom Milled Lumber Firewood

Ed Waraner

8861 Marsh Creek Rd, Clayton Bonded and Fully Insured

Major Credit Cards Accepted

www.waranerbrostree.com

CCC Certified Fire Abatement

p o h s k r Wo sed clo 5 Nov. 1rating co for de

The Elves are busy at The Royal Rooster. Come See

• All new holiday theme trees • Gifts from favorites: Frasier Fir, Woof & Poof, Stonewall Kitchens, Elaine’s Toffee

925-672-2025 1028 Diablo St. Clayton, CA

Visit us on Facebook

Page 12

Performing Arts

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

November 6, 2015

Comedies, music highlight colorful fall stages

SALLY HOGARTY

STAGE STRUCK

Center REP has another winner with its current production of Christopher Durang’s “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” playing through Nov. 21 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts. Set designer Andrea Kevin Berne Bechert’s gorgeous country MARCIA PIZZO AND JACKSON DAVIS in Center Rep’s spoof home exudes warmth as it greets “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” running through audience members in Durang’s Nov. 21 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center. story of two sisters and a brother. Named after characters from Adopted sister Sonia (a knock- velously versatile Jackson Davis) Chekhov, the three have not out performance by Jamie Jones) have stayed at the family home always been on good terms. and brother Vanya (the mar- caring for their aging parents while fading movie star Masha (a wonderfully self-centered Marcia Pizzo) has traveled the world, living life to the fullest while also paying all her family’s expenses. When she unexpectedly returns with her new boy toy (an impressive Rob August) and announces plans to sell the money-pit family home, the sparks begin to fly. There is still time to catch Mark Anderson Phillips Eugene O’Neill’s humorous directs this fast-paced, hilarious, classic coming-of-age play, “Ah, yet poignant, story of a family Wilderness!,” at the American under stress. Adding their own Conservatory Theater’s Geary wacky comedic elements to the Theater in San Francisco. story are neighbor Nina (a lovely Hailed as “a valentine to Sarah Matthes) and housekeephearty turn-of-the-20th-Century er/psychic Cassandra (a very American life” by the Washingfunny Anne Hallinan). ton Post, the play runs through For lots of fun, call 925-943Nov. 8. “Ah, Wilderness!” is a Kevin Berne tender portrait of a sensitive Richard Miller (Thomas Stag- SHOW or go to www.lesherartsteenage poet whose experience nitta) reads a letter from his center.org. The number 13 may not be of first love leads him into the girlfriend while his sister, considered lucky by many but raptures of romantic poetry and Mildred Miller (Christina for Tony Award-winning comthe pain of heartbreak. Liang), listens in Eugene poser Jason Robert Brown and As the Miller clan prepare O’Neill’s Ah, Wilderness! Pittsburg Community Theatre, for their Fourth of July celebrations, their idealistic, literature- for young actors,” says A.C.T. it’s a magical number. PCT will quoting 16-year-old son, Artistic Director Carey Perloff . present Brown’s “13 the MusiRichard, is struggling with what “That’s what I love about it. cal” at 8 p.m. Nov. 20, at 2 and 8 it means to be young and in love. Later in his life, O’Neill would p.m. Nov. 21, and at 2 p.m. Nov. As Richard’s attempts to sow his write about his family from his wild oats intersect with small- father’s perspective, but here he town gossip, hilarious misunder- writes so poignantly and wittily about what it is to be a 20-somestandings ensue. Full of the vibrant nostalgia thing in love, trying to navigate of first love and other youthful adulthood and feeling completediscoveries, “Ah, Wilderness!” is ly overwhelmed.” For tickets and information, cona humorous portrait of a family’s attempts to stay united in the tact the A.C.T. Box office at 415749-2228 or online at www.act-sf.org. midst of growing pains. “‘Ah, Wilderness!’ is a play by The Geary Theater is located at 415 a young artist with glorious roles Geary St., San Francisco.

A.C.T. explores ‘Wilderness’ of first love

22 at the beautifully renovated California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., in Pittsburg. The first and only Broadway musical to have an all-teenage cast, “13” relives the angst, challenges and victories of navigating middle school. It follows Evan as he moves from his fast-paced New York City life into a sleepy Indiana town following his parent’s divorce. Director Steven MergogeyConti and musical director Doug Marttila are putting the enthusiastic cast of 15 teens through their paces. The talented young people includes local middle and high school students from Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood and Concord. For tickets, call 925-4271611 or go to www.pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. The California Theatre has become the place to go whether for an entertaining evening of theater or to catch a wide variety of music and ERIK dance. At 8 p.m. ALSTON on Nov. 7, the “Official Blues Brothers Revue” takes center stage as they don the official hat and sunglasses of the legendary Jake and Elwood Blues. Then at 5 p.m. on Nov. 14, it’s Vetjam 2015. Now in its third year, Vetjam features Doc Kraft and Company, A U.S. Army veteran of special operations, Kraft will knock-out audiences with his six-strings and accordion. Bill Schaub opens for Kraft with his smoky, Neil Diamond-esque voice and acoustic guitar sound. Finally, at 9 p.m. on Nov. 14, the Erik Awesome Alston’s Comedy Show makes its appearance with plenty of comedians and laughs to go around. For tickets to any and

all, call 925-427-1611 or go to www.pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.c om. Those with a sweet tooth have quite a treat in store this December. Solo Opera will present Engelbert Humperdincks’ delectable confection “Hansel and Gretel.” The fairytale adventure features a mystical forest, two lost children, an enticing gingerbread house, and, of course, a wicked witch. The company has pulled many organizations together to make this a special event including the Contra Costa Children’s Chorus and dancers from Lori Buffalow’s The Next Step Dance Studio. Proceeds will benefit the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. Performances take place at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18. and at 2 p.m. Dec. 19-20 at Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd, in Walnut Creek. Tickets are $25 (youth 17 and under), $35 (seniors) and $40 (adults). For tickets, call 925943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Festival Opera brings the culture of India to the Bay Area in a unique evening of music that pairs Gustav Holst’s classical chamber opera “Savitri” with local Bay Area composer Jack Perla’s contemporary opera

SOLO OPERA’S PRODUCTION “HANSEL AND GRETEL,” running Dec. 18 – 20 at Walnut Creek’s Del Valle Theatre. OF

“River of Light.” Holst tells the familiar Indo-American tale of Savitri and Satyavan while Perla shows the characters in today’s world with the Savitri of the earlier opera now a modern, assimilated Indian-American woman. For these performances, the Festival Opera Chamber Orchestra will also include outstanding Indian musicians Nilan Chaudhuri (tabala) and Arjun Verma (sitar). Coloratur soprano Maya Kherani will sing the principal roles in each opera. The operas perform Nov. 14-15 at the Oakland Asian Cultural Center, 388 Ninth St. in Oakland. To order tickets, go to www.festivalopera.org.

COLORATURA SOPRANO MAYA KHERANI sings the principal roles of Savitri and Meera in the two Indian operas presented by Festival Opera Nov. 14-15.

Improv troop targets Clayton’s Gary Carr

Piedmont Oakland Repertory Theatre presents

Gigi Benson as

1950s Manhattan witch Gillian Holyroyd, with Simon as Pyewacket, her familiar. In John van Druten’s

“

Bell, Book & Candle”

Fri-Sat-Sun at 7:30 pm, Through Nov. 8

Performing at the Pacific Boychoir Academy 215 Ridgeway (2 blocks off Broadway) in Oakland Tickets $20 at www.PiedmontOaklandRep.org

The third weekend of every month, the Spontaneous Combustion improv troupe creates a mini-drama out of an audience suggestion at Lamorinda Music Bldg in Lafayette.

Synergy Theatre’s Spontaneous Combustion improv troupe continues its comic explosion of hysterical scenes and outrageous characters on

Nov. 20 at its showplace in Lafayette. Spontaneous Combustion improvisations are all based on the real-life stories of a real

live person. The Nov. 20 show will feature the stories of guest Gary Carr, author of “The Girl Who Founded Nebraska and Other Stories,” recently published by EXIT Press. At this gala performance of Spontaneous Combustion, Carr will top off the evening by reading selections from his book. His reading will be followed by a reception and book signing. Under the guidance of artistic director Kenn Adams, Synergy Theatre performs fulllength improvised plays in a variety of styles and formats. Spontaneous Combustion performs on the third weekend of every month at The Big Room at Lamorinda Music. “We strive to create theater

with wonderful stories, compelling characters, and the vibrant spontaneity of the art of improvisat i o n , ” Adams says. “I have no idea how my stories GARY CARR will pop up during the evening,” Carr says. “After all, it’s improv.” Synergy Theatre is located in the Lamorinda Music building at 81 Lafayette Circle in Lafayette, CA 94549. The Nov. 20 show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 at www.brownpapertickets.com and also at the door.

BOOK YOUR EVENT BETWEEN

November 1 – November 30

1 FREE ITEM*

925.348.5609 Nick Eisenbart

Owner/Service Provider Concord resident

Serving all of Contra Costa County for 15 years Including Marsh Creek, Morgan Territory

Five Stars

on Yelp

November 6, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

The UPS Store

Independently owned and operated

Everything from home repair & maintenance to construction • EXTERIOR: painting, windows, doors, decks, outdoor structures. • INTERIOR: plumbing, drywall, electrical, trim, tile.

Specializin g in deferred m ainten home for sa ance, prepping le, repairs from home insp ections

Gary Romano

Sending a care package?

Get 10% off our packaging materials

Notary, Packaging, Fax and Copy Services Clayton/Concord Location: are available too!

Store Hours M-F 8-6:30 Sat 9-4:30

787-2500

Reliable & Professional Service Owner operated Over 35 years of experience

Vineyard Shopping Center

5100 Clayton Road Concord, CA 94523 ph: 925-689-6245

Page 13

Carpet Cleaning Services:

• Stretch • Install • Repair • Clean • Oriental, area rugs, upholstery Call for free estimate:

Low, Clean Cleaner Carpet e t a r w o l

Clayton Community Calendar

Lic. 979406

(925) 383-1253

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. NOV. 16 FOR THE NOV. 27 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

IN CLAYTON

Nov. 30 Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa County

Nicole Howell, executive director of Ombudsman Services, speaks about the organization’s works. Sponsored by the American Association of University Women 7:30 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Free. For info, call 672-3411.

IN CONCORD

Mondays Off the Grid

Rotating lineup of eight food trucks; live music from local musicians. Food trucks 5 – 9 p.m.; music 6 – 8 p.m. Grant St. between Salvio St. and Willow Pass Rd, Concord. offthegridsf.com.

Tuesdays Farmers’ Market

Tuesdays year round. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.

“A Swingin’ Holiday”

Diablo Ballet’s 22nd season opener. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $44. diabloballet.org.

Nov. 13 – 15 “November Nocturnes”

Performed by Tapestry vocal and handbell ensemble. 7 p.m. Nov. 13, United Methodist Church, 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14, Clayton Valley Presbyterian, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. 4 p.m. Nov. 15, Saint John’s Parish, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. Free. tapestryringersandsingers.org.

Nov. 14 Comedy

Performed by Erik “Awesome” Alston. 9 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $15-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Nov. 14 VETJAM 2015

Nov. 7 Veterans Day Run

A concert to benefit military veterans. 5 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $10. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com.

Nov. 26 Turkey Trot

Presented by West Coast Performing Arts Presenters. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Ceremony and 5K/10K run/walk sponsored by the Contra Costa Blue Star Moms. 8:15 a.m. Hillcrest Park, Grant Street and Olivera Road, Concord. $40. ccbluestarmoms.org. Inaugural Thanksgiving 5K/10K run/walk sponsored by Calvary Temple Church. 8 a.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. $35; Kids Drumstick Dash is free. calvarytemple.org/turkeytrot.

ON THE MOUNTAIN

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.

Nov. 14 “Waterloo: The ABBA Concert Experience”

Nov. 15 “Hello Gorgeous! A Live Tribute to Barbra Streisand”

Presented by West Coast Performing Arts Presenters. 3 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 15 “Too Old for the Chorus…But Not Too Old to be a Star”

Nov. 8 Trail Adventure

A musical revue about men and women who find themselves suddenly 50. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $10-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com.

Nov. 14 Hanson Hills Hike

Presented by Trapped in a Rumor Improv. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Family hike, 5K, 10K and half marathon. 8 a.m. Castle Rock Park, 1700 Castle Rock Road, Walnut Creek. Fees vary. Registration required. A short, steep hike of SMD’s newest property. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meet at Park and Ride lot, Peacock Creek Dr, Clayton. To register and for more info, contact smdinfo@savemountdiablo.org.

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Thru Nov. 7 “Cherry Orchard of the Living Dead”

Horror romp. Onstage Theatre/Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $12-$18. live@campbelltheater.com. 518-3277.

Thru Nov. 7 “The Full Monty”

Heartwarming, upbeat comedy performed by Contra Costa Musical Theatre. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45-$60. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Thru Nov. 15 “Urinetown”

A side-splitting send up of greed, love and revolution in a time when water is worth its weight in gold. Performed by Clayton Theatre Company. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $35. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Thru Nov. 21 “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike”

Nov. 20 “The Improv Games: Scuttlebutt – Part 2” Nov. 20 – 21 “Dorothy in Wonderland”

Presented by El Campanil’s Children’s Theatre. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $8-$12. elcampaniltheatre.com.

Nov. 20 – 21 “The Christmas Ballet”

Presented by Smuin Ballet. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $56-$73. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 20 – 22 “13 the Musical”

Hilarious coming-of-age musical about discovering that “cool” is sometimes where we least expect it. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $10-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Nov. 21 Illusionist

Timothy James performs. 2 p.m. Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. campbelltheater.com. 518-3277.

Nov. 21 Improv All-Stars

Madcap Chekhovian mash up. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33-$53. centerrep.org.

Presented by Commander Doug Productions. 8:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Exploring the resilience of a community struggling to find a home in the ever-shifting sands of the American dream. Strand Theater, 1127 Market St., San Francisco. $35-$95. act-sf.org.

Starring Jim Curry. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.

Thru Nov. 22 “Monstress”

Nov. 7 “The Official Blues Brothers Revue”

The only duo in North America sanctioned by Dan Aykroyd and Judith Belushi to don the official hat and sunglasses and walk in the legendary footsteps of Jake and Elwood Blues. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $49. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Nov. 7 - 8 “Russian Riches”

Performed by Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra. 2 p.m. Nov. 7, El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $7-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com. Nov. 8, Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 8 Concert

Brad Hogarth makes his debut as music director and conductor of the Contra Costa Wind Symphony. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 9 Stroke Support Group

Rev. Suzanne Tindall discusses grief following illness and loss. 7 – 9 p.m. Sterns Conference Room, John Muir Medical Center, 1601 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Free. Contact Ann Dzuna 376-6218.

Nov. 11 Veteran’s Day Concert

Presented by the city of Walnut Creek. 11 a.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. Free. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 13 – 15

Nov. 22 Tribute to John Denver

Nov. 22 “War of the Romantics”

Performed by the Diablo Symphony Orchestra. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 24 - 25 “Giyera – The Musical”

Story set in a small Filipino village during the Japanese invasion of WWII. Presented by Music Repertoire. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $20. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Nov. 27 – 29 “The Nutcracker”

One hour performance by Contra Costa Ballet. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $35. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 1 Holiday Concert

Presented by Walnut Creek Concert Band. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Thru Nov. 8 “Into the Woods”

SCHOOLS

Tony Award-winning masterpiece weaving together beloved fairy tales about wishes, family and the choices we make. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. $11-$21. dvcdrama.net.

Nov. 12 – 14 “Follies”

Cabaret-style talent show. 7 p.m. Clayton Valley Charter High School, Multi-Use Room, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. $10. For more information, email elizabeth.emigh@claytonvalley.org or call 682-7474, ext. 2678.

CHURCHES AND RELIGION

Nov.14 Help Local Foster Kids

Cindy Gershen discusses the Contra Costa County Independent Living Skills Program that helps young people transition out of foster care. 11 a.m. Sherrill Hall, Concord United Methodist Church, 1645 West St., Concord. Free admission; please bring any kind of beans, split peas, lentils or brown rice to help ILSP. concordumc.org. 685-5260.

FUNDRAISERS

2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast

Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org.

Nov. 6 Dinner and Movie Night

Donations go towards mission trip to Honduras. Tacos and burritos at 5:30 p.m.; “The Chronicles of Narnia” at 6:30 p.m. Faith Missionary Baptist Church Gym, 4266 Thompson Drive, Concord. Free. For more information, email fmbcevents@yahoo.com.

Nov. 6 – 7 Annual Church Bell Bazaar

Crafts, bake sale, jewelry, Christmas store, drawing. Proceeds benefit mission projects. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Fri.; 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sat. Concord United Methodist Church, 1645 West St., Concord. Free admission; lunch available for purchase. concordumc.org. 685-5260.

Nov. 13 – 14 Gala and Boutique

Friday night “Singing in the Rain,” wine, appetizers, music, auction, wine pull, raffle and boutique; 6 – 8 p.m. Saturday Classy Crafters Boutique and Country Kitchen continues; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Proceeds benefit Saint Bonaventure Food Pantry. Saint Bonaventure Large Hall, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Free admission. 672-5800.

Nov. 14 Boutique and Vendor Fair

Shop popular vendor products and handmade boutique items. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Faith Missionary Baptist Church Gym, 4266 Thompson Drive, Concord. Free admission; lunch available for purchase. For more information, email fmbcevents@yahoo.com.

Nov. 22 Holiday Faire

Student and vendor booths, raffle, Chef Wayne’s Hungry Eagles Food Truck. Sponsored by the Parent Faculty Club. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Clayton Valley Charter High School, Gym, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. Free admission. pfcholidayfaire@claytonvalley.org.

Nov. 29 A Sing-Along “Messiah”

Come sing along or simply listen to the masterwork of Georg Handel. Profits benefit Bay Area Rescue Mission in Richmond. 7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church of Concord, 1965 Colfax St., Concord. Free will offering. 676-7177.

AT THE LIBRARY

The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call 673-0659. Nov. 7: Water-Wise Gardening, 3 p.m. Nov. 7, 14, 21: National Picture Book Month, 11 a.m. Nov. 9: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m. Nov. 9: Meditation with Andrew Allen, 7 p.m. Nov. 9 and 23: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. Nov. 14: Mystery Program for Teens, 2 p.m. Dec. 9: Walnut Creek Civic Arts Jazz Band, 7:30 p.m.

The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or 646-5455. Nov. 10, 17, 24: National Novel Writing Month for tweens and teens, 4 p.m. Registration required. Nov. 19: Financial Education Workshop, 6 p.m.; 7:30 p.m. in Spanish Dec. 2: Art Journaling, 1:30 p.m. Registration required.

GOVERNMENT

1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council

7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission

7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

Meeting dates and times for local clubs and organizations are listed at claytonpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’

Sports

Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

November 6, 2015

CV, De La Salle head to playoffs as Bay Area’s top 2 teams JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Clayton Valley Charter and De La Salle continue to roll through opponents ranking 12 in Bay Area high school football polls. Each team is hoping to win another North Coast Section championship and return to CIF State bowl games next month. The Ugly Eagles (8-1 overall, 4-0 in league) look to extend an ongoing 21-game Diablo Valley Athletic League winning streak this Friday evening at Diablo Valley College against College Park. A win over the Falcons will give CVCHS four straight undefeated league seasons. The Spartans (8-1) have a final home game against California of San Ramon before they begin seeking their 24th consecutive NCS title. They have now gone 265 straight games against Northern California schools without a loss since Pittsburg, coached by Herc Pardi, defeated DLS 3527 in the 1991 NCS finals. Pardi’s Clayton Valley team tied DLS in 2004, the year the Concord school’s 151-game winning streak was snapped. The Eagles trailed 14-13 at halftime to city rival Concord High two weeks ago in their homecoming game at Gonsalves Stadium before the Ugly Eagles ran off 29 points in the third quarter en route to a 4222 victory that essentially

Photo courtesy CVCHS football

ON A TYPICAL FALL SATURDAY THE CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM gathers with the coaching staff to watch film of its Friday night game. The team came from behind to defeat Concord 42-22 in the annual clash of city rivals and the next day they were watching film on the big screen. CVCHS coaches rewarded the team with a trip to the theatre to view “Woodlawn” an inspirational film based on the 1973 true story of the Woodlawn High School football in Birmingham, Alabama. Clayton Valley Charter’s 84 varsity football players compiled a 3.17 grade point average in the first grading period of the year with every player retaining his eligibility.

clinched their fourth straight league championship. Last Friday CVCHS beat coach Tim Murphy’s old school Ygnacio Valley 68-8. The Eagles have outscored their four DVAL opponents 207-33. Their only loss this year was in the season opener to returning Division I state champion Folsom 27-26. The Bulldogs now stand 9-0, ranked behind only De La Salle in NorCal rankings. Once again the wing-gun

Eagles offense has a featured back. This fall Ray Jackson III is averaging 10.8 yards per carry with 1518 total rushing yardage and 16 touchdowns. After giving up 27 points to Folsom. Clayton Valley Charter is rated No. 1 in California Division II in some polls. The Eagles will be seeking their third NCS title in four years as the top seed for the post-season playoffs. A win at Section will propel them to the DII

Northern California bowl game where they are 1-1 in the last three years after winning the school’s first two NCS football titles in 2012 and 2014. “This time of the year is the best of all! Each week means so much and gets tougher and tougher. The goal is to take those championship pictures with your team after the deciding games...there are four championships in the next seven weeks and every year

Sean Farnham back to singular duty as MC for De La Salle High Athletic Hall of Fame JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

A year ago, Sean Farnham was once again master of ceremonies for his alma mater’s De La Salle High School Athletic Hall of Fame ceremonies. It was a little awkward because before he introduced the 2014 Hall of Fame inductees he was presented the prestigious Distinguished Alumnus Award. Last month’s ceremony at the school was a little easier for the ESPN broadcaster as he simply helped induct this year’s class that included two teams, five athletes and a coach. A 1996 DLS grad, Farnham “moved to Clayton when I was seven or eight. My parents live in the same house today.” Tom Dixon Class of 1994: He was a starter on the varsity volleyball team for four years and a member of two league champion teams. He was twice a member of the USA youth national team, had a record-setting college career at Loyola Marymount University and played professionally in Denmark and Spain. As an assistant coach at De La Salle in 2000-02 he helped lead the

SEAN FARNHAM

Spartans to three NCS volleyball titles. Rashad Floyd ’96: Floyd was a standout athlete, playing football and basketball and running track, all with great success. He graduated from Portland State University, where he was a starting point guard in basketball and an AllAmerica defensive back in football, and went on to play nine years of professional football, winning an Arena Bowl championship.

Rochellez

Photography

rochellez@live.com 510-677-4170

•Affordable •Fun •Professional •Quality

Rochelle Douglass

OWNER/PHOTOGRAPHER

The world is your stage

PORTRAITS - PARTIES - EVENTS

Digital Enhancements - Custom Creations

www.Rochellezphotography.webs.com

Tom Prindiville ’97: He was a premier track and cross country runner all four years and was named DLS’s Athlete of the Year in 1997. He was all-state as a sophomore, junior and senior, and a 1995 AllAmerica cross country runner. He still owns the school record in the 800-meter run and went on to a stellar running career at the University of Arizona. Charles “Chad” Taylor ’01: Taylor’s accomplishments in water polo, swimming and soccer were extraordinary. He was a two-time All-America in water polo and swimming, a North Coast Section MVP in water polo and is considered the best water polo goalie in Spartan history. In soccer he was named first team NCS, and in track and field he qualified for NCS meet in the pole vault. He was 2001 De La Salle Athlete of the year and went on to a great college career as goalkeeper for Stanford water polo. Maurice Jones-Drew ’03: Recently retired from the National Football League after a stellar career, Jones-Drew was one of the country’s best running backs at De La Salle and then at UCLA before signing in 2006 with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He led the NFL in rushing in 2011 and he was named to the Pro Bowl three times. He was a national

figure as early as 2001 for his breakout performance in De La Salle’s 29-15 victory over Long Beach Poly. As a Spartan, he was rated the number one all-purpose high school running back in the nation. Tea Hieta: Coach Hieta is the first woman named to the Athletic Hall of Fame at this all boys school. Hieta coached volleyball at De La Salle from 1997 to 2001 and guided the Spartans to their first and second NCS volleyball titles. A four-time All-American player for Brigham Young University and Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year in 1990, she is a native of Finland and was a member of that country’s World Champion team. 1992 Football Team: The core of this team was a group of student-athletes who were stunned by their loss to Pittsburg in the North Coast Section title game in 1991 and who were determined to work together as a team to achieve their utmost. Their dedication and commitment to one another were second to none and they made the 1992 season a perfect one, including winning the NCS title and state championship. They were ranked third in the nation and is the team that started “The Streak,” an unmatched 151game winning streak. 1997 Baseball Team: Winners of both the league title and section title, the 1997 varsity baseball team posted a 253 record, dominating opponents in every category of play. All nine starting players went on to play college baseball, as did the team’s top three pitchers. Farnham got extra pleasure in announcing the baseball team which included David Frey, who played with him on the Clayton Valley Little League Angels when they won the minor division Tournament of Champions.

those four are the goal,” Murphy said as his team eyed posing for the first of those four photos this Friday with a league championship. SPARTANS DEFENSE CARRIES TEAM

De La Salle lost its season opener in Texas due to a number of mistakes and that pattern has continued even as the Spartans have won eight consecutive games. Last week as they routed James Logan of Union City 57-14 DLS gave up two long kickoff returns for touchdowns after also allowing a similar play two weeks before against Long Beach Poly. De La Salle has relied on its

defense this year to overcome offensive turnovers and special team’s mistakes. The Spartans first-team defense, which in several games is hardly on the field in the second half of lopsided games, hasn’t allowed a touchdown since the third game of the season. By halftime of their anticipated renewal of football competition against Poly the Spartans had three turnovers, had two touchdowns called back due to penalties and gave up a kick return TD. They still led 22-6 at the intermission and then scored 30 more quick points in the second half with a running clock much of the way. “They’re talented and they’re good, but our defense was awesome tonight,” De La Salle head coach Justin Alumbaugh told CalHiSports after the first meeting between LBP and the Spartans since 2002. “All we gave up was that kickoff return so that’s just three points allowed by the defense in the last four games against some pretty good offenses. I’m really happy how they’ve come along [since the loss to Trinity of Texas].” In the NCS DI playoffs De La Salle figures to face two of three strong opponents as Pittsburg, Foothill and Antioch (led by sensational junior running back and Alabama-commit Najee Harris), have only one loss between them entering this weekend’s regular-season finales. Should De La Salle win NCS for the 24th year in a row they will likely be seeded into the open division State Championship game, held this year in Sacramento.

Teams enjoy success in fall tournaments

Photos courtesy MDSA

MDSA U13 Earthquakes runners-up at Palo Alto Tall Trees. MDSA Earthquakes under 13 girls placed second at the Palo Alto Tall Trees in the under 13 girls Samba flight, losing 2-1 to San Ramon U13 Copper in the championship game. Earlier the MDSA team had two draws and a 1-0 semi-final win over Corte Madera. The team includes, front row from left, Elena Tung, Nicole Ramirez, Lauren Fong, Sydney Francis, Katie Gavin, Daniela Ramirez; back row, assistant coach Kim Casey, Kendall Albert, Maryam Opeyany, Zahrah Shaghasi, Samantha Mason, Kennedy Walker, Samantha Schauman and head coach Charles Francis. Not pictured, Ava Watts and Robin Caves.

MDSA Arsenal win Ballistic Fall Harvest Classic MDSA Arsenal under 12 boys allowed only one goal in four games while racking up three wins and a scoreless draw to win the Ballistic United Fall Harvest Classic boys silver and bronze tournament. The local team blanked Livermore Fusion 3-0 in the championship game. The team includes, front row from left, Leandre Pepito, Titus Bishop, Garrett Alton, Kyle Pacak, Anthony Montoya, Cristian Galvan, assistant coach Jorge Calles; back row, Miles Davis, Francisco Ramos, Daniel Calles, Bakari Johnson, Alex Hockenbery, Noah Paschall, Keegan Boustead and Killian Pollock. Not pictured, head coach Jason Bishop

Sports

November 6, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Athlete Spotlight

Mia Mudaliar Grade: Senior School: CVCHS Sport: Vollyball

A basketball player in middle school, Mia Mudaliar tried out volleyball after her best friend, Smriti Sharma, inspired her to play. When her friend moved to San Diego Mudaliar felt alone. Mudaliar says, “When she moved to San Diego I had no friends. I always had insecurity issues and I wasn’t very good at making friends. She told me to start playing [volleyball]. At first I was totally against it, but I finally gave in and tried it. It was love at first play.” Mudaliar has played volleyball for five years. She was on the CVCHS junior varsity for two years (most inspirational award as freshman

and captain as sophomore) and has been on varsity the past two seasons. She is usually a setter, but she also has played as an opposite hitter and a defensive specialist. In the eighth grade, Mudaliar played recreation volleyball with All Out Sports League and then joined the Blaze Volleyball Club team in Clayton. She also played club with Bay Area Blast for two indoor and two beach seasons and last year she was on Xceleration. According to her varsity coach Sebastian Wilson, “Mia is always encouraging and pushes her players as much as she can. She always plays hard and she’ll do whatever

she can to make a play. Mia is always willing to lead and help out the team and her fellow teammates. She is just really an inspirational player.” Her favorite part about volleyball is meeting new people, seeing new places and improving with her team. “I also enjoy just playing the game, especially with a team that meshes very well.” When she’s not playing volleyball, she volunteers with the CVCHS Public Service Academy, dances to Indian music for weddings and parties and coaches volleyball. After graduation next spring Mudaliar wants to major in nursing to become a nurse practitioner for labor and delivery. As soon as she completes her master’s degree, she plans on joining the Peace Corps for two years and then return to America to become a travel nurse.

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

Page 15

Tryouts for the Blaze 2016 club teams are coming up in Clayton! • Girls Club Volleyball: 10u - 18u. Nov. 8, 11am-2pm

• Boys AAU Basketball: 9u - 17u. Dec. 6. See site for times

• Girls AAU Basketball: 11u - 15u. Dec. 6. See site for times • Boys Travel Baseball: 13u - 14u. Dec. 12, 9am-Noon

UTOPIC GARDENS

Clayton Valley Charter boys cross country ends 21-year drought with DVAL title JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Anthony Munch took over as Clayton Valley Charter High School cross country coach in 2013, returning to his alma mater. Last Saturday he was able to re-live an experience he had in 1994 when the Eagles boys team won the school’s first league championship in 21 years. CVCHS had five runners finish in the top eight at the Diablo Valley Athletic League at Hidden Valley Park last Saturday to easily outdistance Northgate and defending champion College Park. Munch took up cross country as a senior and was part of the Clayton Valley High Hall of Fame 1994 team that won the Mountain Bay Athletic League, was second at North Coast Section and fifth at State meet. Munch was named all-league for the undefeated league champs. This year’s Eagles were led by sophomore Dylan White who finished second to senior Jorge Bernabe-Velazquez of Ygnacio Valley, who also won the league meet two years ago. Sayed Opeyany was third, Michael Cox fifth, JJ Perez sixth and Anthony Maytum eighth to score 19 points for CVCHS. “The last two years the Eagles boys have gone into the DVAL finals tied for first, only to come up short due to sickness, injuries and excellent competition from league rivals. This year, from the beginning of the summer, the boys were determined to work as hard as they could to attain victory. This team learned to love hills for the competitive advantage they could bring, even racing to the top of Mount Diablo to prepare for the season,” Munch said. “We have had three different runners finish first on the team and all of the varsity seven have placed in the top five. Though we have many capable and talented runners, the Eagles lack the dramatic front-runner seen on so many successful teams, instead relying on a very strong pack. “Ideally, teams strive to maintain less than a minute gap between their first and fifth runners. This team is much more stingy than that, leaving a

receive an automatic berth into the NCS playoffs. The formulas for splitting the league involve objective data when available, normally the MaxPreps ranking for the prior two years.” Clayton Valley Charter will be in DAL Division Two for boys and girls water polo, girls golf, girls tennis and girls volleyball during the next two years. Those divisions include five to eight schools. In football CVCHS will be joined by Acalanes, Campolindo, Concord, Las Lomas and Miramonte in a six-team Division One.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Clayton Valley and Northgate each defeated the other Photos courtesy Chris Ruzicka school as visitors during the Clayton Valley Charter sophomores Dylan White (left) and DVAL season and, pending Kelly Osterkamp took second and third respectively at the wins in their final games this DVAL championship meet last Saturday at Hidden Valley past Tuesday, they will have Park. She was fifth at the league meet a year ago as a tied for the league champifreshman. White was the first of five Eagle runners to finish onship and have a one-game in the top eight as the school won its first boys cross countiebreaker playoff this Thurstry league meet since 1994. day to determine the automatic NCS berth. Each team scant 36 seconds between their the Diablo Foothill Athletic was 10-1 entering this week’s scoring runners at the DVAL League, Pat Lickiss, report that final DVAL game. championship.” Munch men- league principals from the tioned that three Eagle runners DVAL’s seven schools and the WATER POLO led at various points in the five DFAL schools (Acalanes, Both Clayton Valley CharAlhambra, Campolindo, Las ter girls and boys water polo league meet. Eagles sophomore Kelly Lomas and Miramonte) who teams were placed in the NCS Osterkamp was third overall in have been aligned together in a Division I tournament that the girls race with senior Claire new super league have ratified began earlier this week. Olson seventh as Clayton Val- the divisions for the 2016 and The Eagle boys (14-10) ley took third in the girls race. 2017 fall seasons. traveled to No. 2 seed San Lee explained, “The Ramon Valley on Thursday to Northgate won the championship over College Park, league will be called Diablo open Section play. De La reversing a one-point dual Athletic League and has been Salle (14-10) hosted Foothill split by competitive equity the same day in a battle of meet loss to the Falcons. Freshman sensation Rayna into two leagues for the fall East Bay Athletic League Stanziano of Concord com- sports. The divisions will teams. pleted an undefeated league remain the same for two On the girls side CVCHS season while winning the years and then adjustments (14-13) played Thursday at league meet by 18 seconds over can be made. Each league will Acalanes against Las Lomas. Jessie Boucher of Northgate, who was third a year ago. The Minuteman runner barely missed breaking the meet record. Stanziano earlier set a course record at a DVAL center meet when she clocked 21:34 at Castle Rock Park in Walnut Creek over a 3.3-mile course. NCS meet is in Hayward on De-water the soil Nov. 21 and the State finals are • French drains around your home one week later on Nov. 28 in • Sump pumps Fresno over the Thanksgiving • Foundation work weekend.

El Niño is Coming Prepare now for heavy rains

NEW DIABLO ATHLETIC LEAGUE DVAL Commissioner Craig Lee and his counterpart from

Hammercraft Construction

Lic: 963761

(209) 814-9412

tomsolveson@sbcglobal.net

925-524-0055

Drought Resistant & Beautiful!

CREATIVE DESIGN & INSTALLATION

www.UtopicGardens.com LIC. No. 898331

Fully Insured

Clayton Resident

It could be a virus, or it could just need a tune-up.

Prevent problems caused by viruses and spyware with regular proactive maintenance.

TOTAL DESKTOP CARE & SERVER WATCH Low cost, fixed fee services that monitor & maintain your network to minimize IT problems

Call Mark 925.672.6029 or info@netsolutions-ca.com

Sports

Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

November 6, 2015

First-round draft picks: a success for Raiders, disappointment for 49ers What a difference a year can make. The Raiders hit a homerun drafting wide receiver Amari Cooper with the fourth overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft. The jury is still out on the 49ers first pick Arik Armstead, but so far

through this campaign Armstead has not been very impressive. Cooper, the stud out of the University of Alabama, accumulated 228 receptions, 3,463 yards and 31 touchdowns playing three years for the Crimson

All Out Sports League crowns coed volleyball champs

Photo courtesy All Out Sports League

THE CRUSH WON THE MOST RECENT Clayton adult coed volleyball league championship. The Crush finished ahead of runnerup Spike Happens. Demolition Crew were third and Big C fourth. The champs included, from left, Konstantin Zadorozhny, Mike (Marat) Mudriyan, Nara Tumenbyamba, Taylor Job and Britany Job. The current Clayton volleyball fall league season concludes with playoffs Dec. 10.

Tide. He is the first rookie with three 100-yard receiving games in his team’s first six games since Mike Ditka did it in 1961. He is torching opposing corners. In week seven against the San Diego Chargers, Cooper took a bubble screen 50 yards all the way to the house while making at least four Chargers defenders look inept in the process. Cooper’s polished route running and top-line speed already make him one of the best receivers in the game and he’s played less than half an NFL season. The Raiders drafting has been on-point the past two years, but the same can’t be said for the 49ers Anyway you cut it, the 49ers

TYLER LEHMAN SPORTS TALK

are in a rebuilding phase. Coach Jim Tomsula is merely a figurehead until general manager Trent Baalke finds a coach actually capable of running the team. Armstead is a part of the rebuilding phase for the future, but he is coming along very slowly.

Coming out of the University of Oregon it was known that Armstead was a very, very raw prospect. He has amazing size and length, at 6-7 and 292 pounds. Despite his tremendous upside, Armstead only amassed 87 tackles and four sacks in three years with the Ducks. The 49ers drafted Armstead with the 17th overall pick in the hope that he can learn to use his monstrous frame to become a sack machine, but so far he’s been the same lackluster player he was in college. In fairness to Armstead, he hasn’t received a lot of playing time, but if he was producing in practice he would probably be playing more. Armstead is by no means a bust but he desper-

ately needs a great coach. Tomsula is not going to be the guy to make the 49ers a playoff team. Until they get a new coaching staff, their draft picks may languish without proper coaching. The 49ers (26) are a mess, but across the bay the Raiders (4-3) are hitting on their recent draft picks left and right. Amari Cooper is already a top 15 receiver in the league and Arik Armstead is just another guy.

Tyler Lehman is a senior at San Francisco State University and a 2012 CVHS graduate. He is majoring in print/online journalism and wants to be a sports writer. Email your comments or questions to tyler@claytonpioneer.com.

Diablo FC girls teams claim Classic championships

The Law Office of

Daniel L. DuRee Estate Planning Attorney

Please call today for a complimentary consultation

(925) 210-1400

1535 N. Main St., Walnut Creek

• Wills • Trusts • Healthcare Directives • Powers of Attorney • Probate

Photos courtesy Diablo FC

DIABLO FC 02 BLUE UNDER 13 GIRLS won the Dublin Fall Classic with a 1-0 shutout of Mill Valley Rockers Red 03 in the finals. The Diablo FC 02 Blue team includes, front row from left, Sara Bettencourt, Gema Haro, Ariyah McGlone, Vanessa Hawley, Lauren Wickham; back row, assistant coach Lyndy Enriquez, Olivia Bolton, Taylor Davis, Emmy Kinney, Clarisa Granados, Kaley Urias, Gianna Lazzarini, Kylie Nielsen, Alexa Harris, Ryanne Boland and coach Brandon Enriquez. The 02 Blue girls outscored their four opponents 8-1 with three shutouts in their four games.

Sports Shorts

WINTER PROGRAMS OPEN AT ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES

DIABLO FC 04 GIRLS TOOK TO THE FIELD dressed as “Braveheart,” complete with kilt, sash, warrior paint and won their first Halloween Kick or Treat Classic championship in the top under 11 division. They opened with a 4-0 win over Mt. Diablo Soccer Phoenix followed by a tournamenthigh score of 7-1 over Mustang Forza and 5-2 victory over Union Sacramento FC. In the finals Diablo FC 04 jumped to a 3-0 lead and then held on for a 3-2 win over California Magic from Orinda The team includes, from left, Erika Upson, Courtney Wagner, Helena Ban, Indigo Whiteley, AJ Pringle, Ananda Walker, Jules Colchico-Greeley, coach Miguel Gonzalez, Grace Dausses, Amanda Monahan, Liliana Bailey and Gigi Betti.

2015 Bowl. He was Asiasi’s teammate in 2013 at De La Salle and is now a top freshman at Tennessee, his father’s alma mater. McKenzie, now 344 pounds, made nine tackles in two recent games against Georgia and Alabama.

TRYOUTS FOR BLAZE BASKETBALL, Winter programs are now open for signups in Clayton offered VOLLEYBALL , BASEBALL COMING SOON by All Out Sports Leagues. Youth basketball signups are taking place Blaze competitive team tryouts for baseball, basketball and girls with the league starting Jan. 9. Thanksgiving and Christmas break volleyball are coming soon. Girls in 10u through 18U have volleyball basketball clinics for boys and girls in first through 10th grades are tryouts this Sunday, Nov. 8, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Clayton Comalso accepting signups. For complete information on All Out Sports munity Gym. Boys and girls in second through 11th grade have basprograms, visit alloutsportsleague.com. ketball tryouts Dec. 6 for spring/summer season that begins in February. Baseball tryouts are Dec. 12 for 13U and 14U teams. For DIABLO FC OFFERING FREE SOCCER CLINICS IN DEC. Diablo FC is offering free soccer clinics for ages 5-12 this complete information on Blaze competitive teams through All Out December. Each clinic will be run by the Diablo FC professional Sports programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com. coaching staff. All levels of players are encouraged to come to OAKLAND RAIDERS AND CVCHS EAGLES RAISE FUNDS improve skills while having fun. Visit diablofc.org for dates, times The Oakland Raiders partnered with the American Cancer Sociand to register online. ety to promote the High School “A Crucial Catch” program. In its inaugural year of 2014 Clayton Valley Charter High School and its PICKLEBALL DROP-IN PROGRAM COMING TO CONCORD Pickleball is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis, football team raised over $4,000 towards the cause, the highest table tennis and badminton. It’s played with two to four players on fundraising total of any high school in California. The Raiders paid a court about half the size of a tennis court with wooden paddles a visit to the Ugly Eagles at a practice in Gonsalves Stadium. Raiders and a plastic whiffle ball. One of the fastest growing sports among two-time Super Bowl winner Morris Bradshaw along with Wendy adults of all ages, pickleball is especially popular with young adults Cruz of the American Cancer Society and two Raiderettes presentand adults nearing or in their retirement years. To receive informa- ed the school through its captains and head coach Tim Murphy with tion on pickleball drop-in programs five days a week (including a plaque and a big “Thank You.” some evenings and Saturday) at Willow Pass Park tennis courts in BEARS GIRLS TRAVEL FAST-PITCH TRYOUTS NOV. 14-15 Concord visit teamsideline.com/concord or call 671-3423. Bears Softball Association is looking for girls for 12 Under thru 18 fast pitch travel teams for the spring/summer 2016 season. Bears CHEERLEADING BEING ADDED AS Softball, a premier, non-profit, girls fast-pitch organization based in HIGH SCHOOL SPORT IN 2017-18 Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill that will classify cheerleading as a the Concord/Pleasant Hill area will hold tryouts at DVC on the competitive CIF sport beginning in 2017-18. The state organization Nov. 14-15 weekend. For additional information or to register go to will come up with the rules, policies and standards to allow schools bears-softball.com, email bearssoftballassociation@gmail.com or to compete. A season for cheerleading will be decided and students call (925) 673-1150 for details on the tryouts. will be subject to the same eligibility and transfer rules as other WC AQUANUTS CO-HOST AQUATHON & DUCK DERBY sports. “One of the major goals in this process will be to develop Walnut Creek Aquanuts have partnered with Synchronized guidelines for competitive cheer programs that our member schools Swimming Athletes with Disabilities to co-host an Aquathon and can implement, meet the standards and be compliant with Title IX,” Duck Derby Nov. 15 at Clarke Memorial Swim Center in Walnut said CIF Executive Director Roger Blake in a statement. Creek. Aquathon is an annual fundraising event for WCA where DE LA SALLE PLAYER PICKED FOR ARMY ALL-AMERICAN BOWL athletes swim 5000 yards or more to earn money for the club Senior tight end Devin Asiasi of De La Salle has been selected through pledges. Athletes dive in at 8 a.m., swim 5K and then enjoy for the prestigious 2016 U.S. Army All-American Bowl Jan. 9 in the great food and mingling with friends. This year, Aquanuts head San Antonio Alamodome. The game’s website says, “A big and coach Kim Probst wanted to open the event up to the community physical presence, Asiasi has been one of the premier players at the and create a forum and fundraising event for a larger good. “SStight end position, regardless of class, for the last two seasons. He is AWD was a perfect choice for a partner since we both advocate for the consensus best tight end on the West Coast. He possesses a pre- the sport of synchronized swimming and its accessibility to athletes mier combination of size, athleticism and blocking and catching of all abilities”. WCA is currently researching the feasibility of ability; he is as complete a tight end to come from the West in some adding an AWD program to their year-round program. Every entrant will receive a free cap and be eligible to win prizes. For more time.” The game will be telecast live on NBC. Kahlil McKenzie from Clayton Valley Charter played in the information or to register visit aquanuts.org.

November 6, 2015

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 17

Wild turkeys not always welcome guests STACI HOBBET UPON THE MOUNTAIN

If you’ve lived in the Mount Diablo region for a long while, think back: When did you start seeing turkeys in such large numbers? If you answer that you only see them on a platter, you need to get outdoors more. I’m talking about the wild turkey, the bird Benjamin Franklin admired and insisted was a more appropriate national symbol that the bald eagle. I’m glad he lost that argument. I don’t remember seeing turkeys at all when I moved to Walnut Creek in 1988, let alone gangs of them strolling majestically along the sidewalks of my neighborhood as if out for a

leisurely after-dinner constitutional. The reason we see them so frequently now is that turkey numbers in California have increased dramatically since the early 1990s — because contrary to what many people assume, turkeys were not residents of California until the 1970s. California’s native tribes did not feast on turkey; nor did the miners of the Gold Rush. But the California Department of Fish and Wildlife wanted to add another game species to the mix in the state, so they began releasing populations of turkeys. The effort has succeeded — to the point of concern, in fact. If turkeys have scratched the paint on your car, uprooted your garden, or left their sizable calling cards on your deck, you’re probably concerned too. No one knows how many turkeys there are in the state now, although scientists are trying to survey them. They’re common in Mount Diablo State Park and virtually all the oak woodlands and savannahs that surround the Central Valley,

Mayor, from page 1

2015 rate down to 46.36 percent. Our rate in 2014 was 49.57 percent so we are going the wrong direction. While it appears we are doing well at our water rationing, perhaps we are losing sight of our other obligations. So remember, your brown can should be bigger than your blue can and be used considerably more. Incidentally, and despite the fact that El Niño is still just another rumor at this point, we are turning off or decreasing our irrigation systems around the city with the onset of short-

er days (less sun) and anticipated rain. Our crews have also continued to winterize our V-ditches, catch basins and sewer inlets. It is probably a good time for all of us to clean out our drains and gutters as well before it too late. The drought restrictions also require all users to cut back substantiality from the summer months allocations so let’s all do our part. On the government waste front, the Department of Transportation has new retroreflectivity standards for street signs and so we are replacing

including the counties of the Bay Area and north through Mendocino County. Surprisingly, not everyone considers turkeys a non-native species, or at least not on the same scale as gazania, star-thistle and eucalyptus. Fossil finds prove that California hosted a

turkey nearly identical to our current bunch, and some ornithologists say that makes them native: the turkey passport to California, last stamped in the year 7985 BC, hasn’t expired, they say. If a population of dire wolves were to be discovered somewhere, a case could be made to bring them back to California, too. Many people enjoy seeing and watching turkeys, including me, but the concerns are serious. Turkeys reproduce quickly, will eat almost anything and don’t have to worry all that much about being eaten themselves, (Thanksgiving aside). Wild predators like coyotes and bobcats, both commonly seen in Mount Diablo State Park, will grab a turkey dinner when they can, but it’s risky to try it. Turkeys have height, weight, beaks, claws, spurs and a lot of vigilant friends. But the gravest concern is Clayton Worsdell that the wild turkey competes A THIRSTY WILD TURKEY TAKES a directly with another groundsip from the birdbath in the based bird, our state bird, the Native Plant Garden behind California quail, which is having the Mitchell Canyon Visitor a tough time making it. Turkeys Center in Mount Diablo also vacuum up acorns, a critical State Park. perfectly acceptable, but “faded” signs to meet these standards. Over-regulation or street smart, you decide? A big shout-out to sergeant Tim Marchut and officer Rich Enea, who were honored with an Investigative Merit Award recently for their excellent police work. And another shout-out to the Clayton Community Library Foundation that recently gave $14,000 to the Contra Costa library system to purchase books and materials for the Clayton library. On the “sigh” front, we recently received news that our city health plan rates will be

going up from 5 percent to 19 percent, increasing our costs and making it even harder to keep a balanced budget. But we have and will continue to work within our means. In honor of our new chief and our great force, Robert Kennedy once said, “Every society gets the kind of criminal it deserves. What is equally true is that every community gets the kind of law enforcement it insists on.” Sounds like Clayton. Then there’s comedian Dennis Miller: “A recent police study found that you’re much more likely to get shot by a fat cop if you run.” Email me at dshuey@ci.clayton.ca.us.

food source for other birds too (woodpeckers, jays, ducks) and mammals (squirrels, deer, fox, mice, voles, opossums, raccoons). Confrontations between turkeys and people, and turkeys and pets, is also a worry. Turkeys are courageous and bold, just as Ben Franklin said, and may charge you if you get too close to a nest or poults. So don’t feed them; you don’t want them making themselves at home in your yard. If they show up at your bird feeder, remove the feeder for a short while and they’ll go elsewhere. If they show up at your birdbath, take a picture and pray for rain. Staci Hobbet is a docent with the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association. Email her at anastasiahobbet@gmail.com

A Floral nce Experie

Flowers for all occasions

Mitzie Richardson Richardson Mitzie

925-705-3088

flowersbymitzie@gmail.com flowersbymitzie@gmail.com

Facebook/afloralexperience.biz Facebook/afloralexperience.biz

Please Recycle

Reliable, top quality house cleaning

Local, experienced Concord & Clayton references

Quality cleaning 100% guaranteed.

“If you aren’t completely satisfied, then I’m not.”

Silvia’s Housecleaning

925-350-9179 silviacanalizo@gmail.com

Clayton & Concord properties COMING SOON. Call us for more info l

PENDING

513 Falling Star Dr. Martinez

$495,000

3 bed, 2.5 bath Approx. 1572 sq.ft. Listing agents: Matt Mazzei/ Kyle Garcia

For more information please contact

SOLD

3822 Shasta Cir. Pittsburg

Rula Masannat Sales Agent

travel-2-go.com

Clayton Road (Suite F) - Clayton, CA

Offer applies to voyages and cruise fares advertised in this promotion only; is not transferable and has no cash value. Offer is not combinable with Casino offers (including discounts, casino cash and complimentary cabin) and may not be combinable with other offers or onboard credits. Both cruise fare and airfare must be booked between November 3 and December 8, 2015 to qualify for the discounts. †Save up to $300 on Airfare per person is based on a discount on roundtrip flights booked through Princess eZAir. Additional airline restrictions and baggage, change and cancellation fees may apply. If airfare is not booked by the specified date, the air discount will not apply. Any changes made to airfare or air itinerary after the specified end date of this promotion will negate the discount. Please visit princess.com/ezair for information and to book your flights. ‡Save up to $300 on Cruise fare per person is based on a per person discount off applicable launch fares on a space-available basis at time of booking. Launch fares are offering fares and may not have been in effect for the past 90 days or resulted in actual sales in all categories. Intermediate discounts may have been taken and fares may remain at discounted levels after this promotion. *Cruise Fares apply to minimum lead-in categories on a space-available basis at time of booking. Fares for other categories may vary. Cruise Fares are per person, non-air, cruise- or land and sea vacation-only, based on double occupancy and apply to the first two guests in a stateroom. These fares do not apply to singles or third/fourth-berth guests. This offer has limited space regardless of stateroom availability. Offer is not transferable and is available to residents of the 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda and the District of Columbia who are 21 years of age or older and receive this offer. Fares quoted in U.S. dollars. Please refer to princess.com/sale for terms, conditions and definitions that apply to all bookings. Offer valid: November 3 – December 8, 2015. Promo code RY-. Note: For assistance reserving a wheelchair-accessible stateroom, please contact customer service at 1-800-774-6237. ©2015, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. Ships of Bermudan and British registry. CST #2033054-40

DRE# 00797857

925-381-8810 heypaula10@gmail.com

$270,000

Ph: 925.672.9840 Clayton Station Shopping Center 5439,

Paula Johnstone Broker Associate

DRE# 01923757

415-310-2905 rulawithmazzei@yahoo.com 3 bed, 1.5 bath Approx. 1053 sq.ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

SOLD: Buyer Representation 1301 Shakespeare Dr. Concord

$515,000

3 bed, 2 bath Approx. 1460 sq.ft. Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

We have buyers for your home... Call our office for a free consultation!

mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959

925-693-0757 (Main)

Matt Mazzei, Jr. Broker/Owner DRE# 01881269

925-766-6745 mazzeirealty@yahoo.com

6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton

925-693-0752 (Fax)

Warm up with winter squashes

Page 18

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

LINDA WyNER

Native to the Americas, these “veggies” (technically, they’re fruits) got their name from the Narragansett Indian word askutasquash which means “eaten raw or uncooked.” While some Native Americans perhaps ate squash without cooking, virtually all of the winter squashes these days are cooked before eating. Winter squashes come in all sizes and shapes but almost all have dense orange flesh. Spaghetti squash differ in that the fibers can be shredded out after cooking to resemble strands of spaghetti. All squashes contain tons of beta carotene and other vitamins and the fact they can be stored in a dark cool spot for months

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Hard winter squashes (not the tender zucchini and crookneck squashes of summer) are now flooding produce bins. Butternut, acorn, hubbard, spaghetti and kabocha are among the most popular, not to mention pumpkin.

after harvest while retaining lots of that nutrition is a real bonus. The word “pumpkin” is used in some countries to designate winter squashes, particularly throughout much of the Caribbean. If you’ve ever been to the Great Pumpkin Harvest in Half Moon Bay, you’ve no doubt been astonished by the huge pumpkins on display. Sorry to burst your bubble, they aren’t true pumpkins, but another squash bred to grow to gargantuan size. If that disclosure isn’t bad enough, it’s likely that the commercially canned “pumpkin” on your grocer’s shelf is probably Delicious, Boston Marrow or a similar squash with much richer flesh — and

Stuff your kitchen with sweet, crisp Jujubes DEBRA J. MORRIS Clayton Valley Farmers Market

You’ll probably see mounds of a round yellow fruit with browning skin around the market right now. It’s the jujube. Also called a Chinese date when dried, this fruit is slightly sweet with the texture of an apple. It’s a great snack or can be used in baked goods or candied. Most growers dry this little fruit. It has a thin, edible skin surrounding whitish flesh of sweet, agreeable flavor. The single hard stone contains two seeds. The immature fruit is green in color, but as it ripens it goes through a yellow-green stage with mahogany-colored

spots appearing on the skin as the fruit ripens further. The fully mature fruit is entirely red. Shortly after becoming fully red, the fruit begins to soften and wrinkle. The fruit can be eaten after it becomes wrinkled, but most people prefer them during the interval between the yellowgreen stage and the full red stage. At this stage the flesh is

crisp and sweet, reminiscent of an apple. Here are a variety of ways to enjoy this tantalizing fruit: Salads: Enjoy in a salad that uses apples or Asian pears. Toss with some walnuts, sliced jujubes, and a sweet vinaigrette. Breakfast: Slice thin and add to oatmeal or yogurt for added sweetness. Baked: Bake sliced jujubes with pork chops in the oven, just like you would apples. Jujube Chips: Slice thinly and place in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 250 degrees until dehydrated. Stuffing: Chop and add to your favorite poultry stuffing with celery, onion, and spices.

Here comes Christmas. Mark your calendar now

5 tin

6 p.

Tree

Ligh

• Me et a Mus t the G • Fo ic by M azebo f llow o DE Sch r Chris San for t o tma t o a s • Jo he cou down M l Choir ntdo in fr a i n Stre cide iends a wn et r an nd n d mun eigh don bors ity C u fo hurc ts at Cl a h yton r hot Com 11 a .m

11 De s

.-2 p

with sert

Mrs.

1 2 C

• Vi sit w at th ith Mr s. C eh • Pr izes istoric E laus an d , par • Br ty fa ndeavo Santa ing r Ha vors you r ca ll FRE mer E fo a

laus

actually more nutritious than pumpkin. While you could eat even the skin on a winter squash after it’s cooked, I don’t think it’s all that tasty and it has a weird texture. On the other hand, don’t overlook those seeds. Wash them up and brine them in some really salty water for about 30 minutes, pat them dry, drizzle with a little oil or melted butter, season with your choice of kosher salt, garlic powder, cayenne, etc. and roast them in a single layer in a 300-degree oven for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Squash is beautifully tender and delicious when roasted and caramelized in the oven. But microwaving is a great way to get tender squash on your table in no time at all. For acorn squash, cook for five minutes covered cut-side down in the microwave. Here’s a comforting coolweather soup you can make in under 30 minutes:

November 6, 2015

GOLDEN SQUASH BISQUE Serves 6 1 tsp. rice bran oil ¼ cup minced onion 2 cups mashed cooked winter squash 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or veggie broth 1 tsp. curry powder ½ cup plain Greek yogurt Salt and white pepper to taste ½ tsp. snipped fresh thyme (garnish) Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the

oil and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender. Stir in the broth (start with a cup and add more if needed), squash and curry powder. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the yogurt. Taste, adding salt and/or white pepper as desired. Serve in warm bowls, garnishing with the thyme. Linda Wyner owns Pans on Fire, a gourmet cookware store and cooking school in Pleasanton. Send suggestions or questions to lwyner@pansonfire.com

How to host a homey holiday

JENNIFER LEISCHER

DESIGN & DÉCOR

With a ghostly white kiss, Halloween has come and gone like the whoosh of a witch’s broom. And in an instant, the “holidays” are upon us. Whether we’re grocery shopping for our Thanksgiving feast or shopping for this present and that gift, it’s hard to stay ahead of holiday cheer. It seems like we turn the calendar page to November and we all hit the ground running as fast as we possibly can to get things, anything, done. Well, let’s all take a deep breath. Before any shopping shenanigans, let’s focus on the heart of the “holidays” — the gathering of friends and family, and, of course, decorating our homes. Keep the Squash It seems to me, like Cinderella’s carriage, retail sources for pumpkins disappear at the stroke of midnight on Halloween. So whatever you have

managed to keep away from the kids and their little plastic carving knives, you can now enjoy for a second round. Pumpkins make for wonderful containers. Consider a hollowed out pumpkin containing a hidden vase of flowers. Using this same idea, pierce the pumpkin with a screwdriver to create a pumpkin lantern, candle hidden inside. To transform a pumpkin into a food container, first install a bowl that fits the inside. Fill with your grandmother’s famous butternut squash soup, your Uncle’s perfectly whipped potatoes, sugar cookies for the kids, or an ice bucket for that special bottle of sparkling wine. Paint the Greenery Gold Setting the Thanksgiving dining table was a festive family tradition in my parents’ home. The design evolved from year to year, but the idea of bringing the outdoors in was first and foremost. Some of us have lovely old Oak trees in our yards with amazingly shaped leaves. For those of us who don’t, you need to take a nature walk in the park and see what goodies you stumble upon. Fallen acorns, big leaves, small leaves, whatever delights you, consider adding a touch of gold by spray painting your finds for a Midas looking centerpiece or subtle backdrop to a lovely flower arrangement or two. A perfect leaf sitting on top of each place setting, a per-

Season’s Greetings from Clayton Mind & Body Connections

Black Friday Sale, Nov. 27, 9 am - 1 pm $25 Membership plus Free gifts (925) 673-0686 www.mind-and-body-connections.com/news

fect acorn propping up a name card, a perfect twig sticking out of a creatively folded napkin — it’s just perfect. Musical Chairs, Tables and Linens I remember one of the first Thanksgivings my husband and I hosted, we invited our entire combined family, about 40 people, before we thought through any of the seating logistics. Long story short, we moved our living room into the garage in order to create a single dining table made up of every table, chair and table cloth we owned. Did everything “match?” No. And it was absolutely charming. Many of my past columns have focused on using what you have in your home to create something new. Creating from within, for me, feels very much like the holiday itself. Using what you have to create a festive environment is the epitome of “home for the holidays.” So enjoy your home for the holidays, wholeheartedly.

Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.

In the mood for some family fun?

if a r chil cco mp dren 1 a 2 Don atio nied by & und ns a adu er ppr lt

Looking for Searching for s ft gi h a ed n ft dmade stock unique, handcra ing ? ry el w stuffers? je l & beautifu Wood Rose Academy presents

ecia

ted

Learning & living the gift of self

The St. Nicholas Christmas Boutique

Saturday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

St. Nicholas himself will visit between 11 am and 2 pm!

Preview the event the day before with a few of the vendors:

Friday, Dec. 4, 3-5 p.m.

Silpada, Pampered Chef, Arbonne and many more brands will be featured

Both events sponsored & hosted by the Clayton

Business & Community Association

Go to claytoncbca.org or call (925)

672-2272 for membership info