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East Bay Regional Parks Activity Guide
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Polka, bier, ist der Oktober hier www.claytonpioneer.com
October 7, 2016
925.672.0500
CBCA OKTOBERFEST EVENT CHAIR MARYANN LAWRENCE CATCHES THE FIRST STEIN as Gregg Kallenberger and Bill Safreed tap the keg, officially setting the 2016 festivities in motion. The annual two-day event raises over $70,000 which is donated back to the community in the form of grants for charitable causes, scholarships, local theater, schools and civic events.
CBCA Bocce tournament honors Skip Ipsen’s dedication to Clayton BEV BRITTON Clayton Pioneer
In a fitting salute to Clayton’s downtown restaurants, the Ed’s Mudville Grill team won the inaugural Skip Ipsen Memorial Bocce Tournament on Sept. 25. Lester “Skip” Ipsen, who opened the original Skipolini’s Pizza Garden in 1974, played a large role in downtown Clayton. In 1984, he co-founded the Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA), a nonprofit that has raised and donated hundreds of thousands to the community. Later in life, he and his son RICKY NOLEN, LEFT, CAROL RICETTI-NOLEN, Aldo Ricetti and Kent donated funds and land to Larry and Linda Mullen won the Skip Ipsen Memorial Bocce build the Ipsen Family Bocce Tournament, playing for Ed’s Mudville Grill. Park, a multi-court private park that that is open to the public.
The CBCA operates and maintains the downtown courts through its bocce committee. The CBCA launched the two-day bocce tournament as a fund-raiser using a Swiss format, with 12 teams of four-six players. Teams included several of the Clayton Bocce League’s best players and representatives from each past championship team: Diablo Rollers, the 2014 summer champs; Ed’s Mudville Grill, 2014 fall and 2015 spring winners; the Avengers, the best of summer 2015; and this year’s top spring team, Chewbocce. The entire Clayton Bocce Committee was there to officiate the games, and Skipolini’s provided food and refreshments.
Last weekend’s Oktoberfest may turn out to be the biggest yet in its 13-year history. Saturday dawned sunny and mild promising enough heat to make a cold beer taste really good, but not enough to chase everyone home early. By noon, Main Street was already elbow-to-elbow and the biergarten tent was at its 500-seat capacity. Despite the early crowds, festival chair and Oktoberfest founder, Maryann Lawrence was unfazed. “It will all be fine,” she assured one frazzled volunteer. And, when it came time to tap the keg, a missing hammer was barely a blip on the radar. A block of wood was quickly produced and, after several whacks at the tap, the suds flowed, the band struck up “Beer Barrel Polka,” and the 13th Annual Oktoberfest was officially underway. The Oktoberfest is one of
two major fundraisers mounted by the Clayton Community and Business Association, the other being the Art and Wine Festival in the spring. Together, the festivals raise thousands of dollars which are returned to the community in the form of charitable contributions, scholarships, grants and civic events. The CBCA awards $25,000 in scholarships each year and the annual Tree Lighting and Mrs. Claus Dessert are both CBCA sponsored events. CBCA boasts a membership of 180, but the events require armies of volunteers. More than 200 were needed for the Oktoberfest alone. Volunteers come from members and the schools and organizations that CBCA has supported during the year. For more information or membership application, go to www.claytoncbca.org or call the CBCA office, 925.672.2272.
TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
have made a significant artistic or philanthropic contribution to Contra Costa’s Arts and Culture” in 1996. This is the 19th year giving recognition to worthy individuals and organizations (no awards were presented in 2009) in the county. Bedecarré became involved in the arts when he was part of the original
KidFest producer from Clayton wins CCC Arts award Jay Bedecarré has spent many years involved in the local arts and cultural scene and is being recognized this month for those efforts by the of Arts & Cultural Commission of Contra Costa County with a 2016 Arts Recognition Award. The county commission began “honoring those who
See KidFest, page 2
See Bocce, page 7
Home Tour needs homes
Love to decorate for the holidays? Do you start channeling Martha Stewart as soon as summer is over? Consider adding your home to the Clayton Historical Society’s annual Christmas Homes Tour. This year’s tour is Sun., Dec. 11 from noon until 6 p.m. If you love to decorate and enjoy compliments on your decor please contact Shannon Seven, sseven1@me.com, or JoAnn Caspar, jojocaspar@gmail.com. Only you will determine how much of your home you wish to show on the tour. The Clayton Historical Society is a nonprofit society and the Christmas Tour is one of their main fundraisers.
Photo courtesy of Kidfest
AC5 AWARD WINNER, JAY BEDECARRE, has been a part of the local arts scene since 1975 when he was a member of the original Concord Pavilion administrative staff. For the past seven years his company, Bay Area Festivals, has presented Bay Area KidFest at his alma mater, Mt. Diablo High School. Besides affording an opportunity for nearly two dozen local groups to perform on the KidFest stage, the annual Memorial Day Weekend event always features famous characters from literature, TV and the movies such as Scooby-Doo.
What’s Inside
Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Community Calendar . . . . .15 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 School News . . . . . . . . . . .16
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Around Town
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
95.7 The Game Celebrity Golf Classic at Oakhurst
Radio station 95.7 FM The Game came to Clayton last week for its inaugural VIP Celebrity Golf Classic. The station broadcast live from Oakhurst Country Club for its 6-10 a.m. morning show and The Afternoon Delight with former Oakland Raider Super Bowl tackle Lincoln Kennedy (foreground) and co-hosts Greg Papa (second from right) and Chris Townsend (right). The station broadcasts Raiders and Oakland A’s games and recently secured the radio rights for the Golden State Warriors. Proceeds from the posttournament silent auction of sports memorabilia went to the “More Than A Game” charity (www.mtag-usa.org). — Jay Bedecarre
Engineer Mike Krupicka (left) and show producer Derek Papa made sure the remote broadcast ran smoothly.
KidFest, from page 1
administrative staff of the Concord Pavilion in 1975. He says he’s especially proud of wining the county award since his mentor, Pavilion general manager John Toffoli Jr., was an inaugural AC5 recipient in 1996. The San Francisco native, who has lived with his family in Clayton since 1988, was marketing director at the Pavilion for its first 12 seasons and during that time advertised and marketed nearly 800 events. In collaboration with Toffoli he was
able to help the Pavilion present world-renowned artists in every musical genre from opera, symphony, ballet, modern dance and musical theatre to rock, jazz, country, pop, R&B and folk music. He was lauded by the city when he left the staff as “the man who made the Concord Pavilion known to the world.” He purchased a local advertising agency in 1987 and continued to market Pavilion events until 2002. In 2010 when the city of Concord said Bay Area Kid-
Fest could no longer be held at Todos Santos Plaza for financial and logistical reasons, Bedecarré moved the family-friendly event to his nearby alma mater, Mt. Diablo High School. KidFest has been held for the past seven Memorial Day Weekends on the school site. One of the major attractions of KidFest is the community stage where up to two dozen local groups perform annually. Bedecarré took over KidFest from long-time producer Beth Clark in 2009 after the city of Concord and Clark had co-produced the event for 20 years. He formed a company, Bay Area Festivals, and now
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also presents Camp and School Fairs, Bay Area Kids’ Book Fair, Super Holiday Boutiques (Dec. 4 this year at Centre Concord) and other events around the Bay Area. The other AC5 award recipients for 2016 are Solo Opera founder Sylvia Amorino of Concord, Richmond RYSE Center, Lamorinda arts activist Lawrence Kohl and Michael and Shannon Demers of Contra Costa Musical Theatre. Presentation of the awards to the five honorees will be made by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Oct. 25, at 9:30 a.m. in Martinez.
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Vernne Victa and Angela Musiello took a 7 day Caribbean Cruise to celebrate Vernne’s July 23 birthday. They started in Orlando where they visited the Kennedy Space Center and Universal Studios, and then hit the seas for seven days out of Fort Lauderdale with port calls at Nassau, St. Thomas and St. Kitts. We snorkeled, swam with dolphins and enjoyed the ocean. Picture above is of the Port of Entry in St. Kitts.
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Clayton Market Update
FRANCE A group of Clayton friends recently returned from a threeweek tour of France, taking the Pioneer along to keep up with local news. From Clayton were Mike and Jean Wells, Dave Holmes, Lori TurnerHolmes, Chuck and Peggy Bidondo, Carol Gray, Andrea Vollmerhausen, and Carol and Al Caton of Escalon. The trip included time in Paris, a river cruise from Lyon to Avignon, and a private hotel near the Pyrenees in the medieval town of Limoux which is in the up and coming wine region of LanguedocRoussillon. The photo was taken at the entrance to the fortified town of Carcassonne. The town has occupied this location for 5,000 years, is on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, and its 57 turrets were an inspiration to
Rare “Baccarat” model in Peacock Creek at Oakhurst Country Club! Backing to open space! Downstairs en-suite plus a bonus room/home office with separate entry. 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3530sf & 3 car garage! $1,079,000
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17 Newman Ct . . . . . . . . . . . $795,000 . . . . .2350 . . . . . .5/2.5 . . . . .9/20/16
17 Capistrano Ct . . . . . . . . . $875,000 . . . . .2500 . . . . . .5/2.5 . . . . . .9/6/16
307 Saclan Ter . . . . . . . . . . . $650,000 . . . . .1939 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .9/14/16
5002 Keller Ridge Dr . . . . . . $600,000 . . . . .1343 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . .9/2/16
7 Long Creek Cir . . . . . . . . . $430,000 . . . . .1075 . . . . . .2/2 . . . . . . .9/20/16
1067 Feather Cir . . . . . . . . . $600,000 . . . . .1338 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . .9/13/16
369 Mt. Washington Wy . . . . $900,000 . . . . .3479 . . . . . .4/3.5 . . . . . .9/2/16
October 7, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Administrative shakeup, lawsuit at Clayton Valley CHS JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Never far from the headlines, Clayton Valley is less than two months into its fifth year as a charter high school and there has been a major shakeup in its administrative staff plus a lawsuit filed by a recentlydeparted director. Soon after welcoming the school’s largest freshman class in many years and within weeks of the school opening principal Jeff Eben suddenly announced his resignation with the school quickly naming his replacement for the 2016-17 school year plus adding two administrators. No sooner had those changes taken place than former school administrator Greg Hile filed a lawsuit charging the school and executive director
David Linzey with “age and disability discrimination, harassment, retaliation and wrongful termination.” Eben was starting his second year on the Concord campus when he left less than four weeks into the fall semester. No reason for the resignation was been given by the school or Eben. The school issued a statement: “Since this matter involves a personnel issue, CVCHS is unable to provide any additional remarks at this time and asks the CVCHS community and media to respect the privacy of all involved.” The departing principal, who by all accounts was quite popular with all facets of the campus community, told the Pioneer, “I love the students and staff at Clayton Valley and will miss them dearly.” At the school’s regular Sep-
also suffered a heart attack and pulmonary embolism requiring cardiac stents and abdominal surgery in 2013, just months before he was in a car accident that resulted in a second abdominal surgery. His suit asks the court to find in his favor for unspecified compensatory damages including loss of wages, mental and emotional distress, all legal fees and “punitive and exemplary damages in an amount sufficient to punish and deter the defendants’ outrageous conduct.” Hile says that as his medical issues manifested themselves
tember governing board meeting Dr. Patrick Gaffney was announced as interim principal and John McMorris as deputy principal. Gaffney has been with the school since it became a charter while McMorris was principal of Northgate High for six years through the end of the 2013-14 school year. Executive director David Linzey said, “Dr. Gaffney has
“We also are fortunate to have welcomed two veteran administrators – John McMorris and Jim Stewart – who join our management team and ensure an exceptional student and employee experience at CVCHS. We look forward to John’s positive contributions as a seasoned administrator now at CVCHS. John was beloved by his students and parents [at Northgate] and we are confident he has much to offer our families.” McMorris resigned from
his Northgate post after it came to light that he was paid $20,000 per annum by the nonprofit Parent Faculty Club for two school years to supervise the school’s Model United Nations program. It was reported at the time that teachers or administrators supervising this extracurricular activity are usually paid about $1000 stipend. Ironically McMorris, citing fears of financial ruin for remaining district schools, had been an outspoken opponent of Clayton Valley converting to a charter back in 2011 when the school was seeking to leave the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. A year after the charter began McMorris lauded many of their efforts and reported to the Northgate site council and PFC that there were CVCHS programs Northgate should emulate.
“Linzey began to harass…and made fun of [Hile’s] difficulty speaking.” The suit says Hile was removed from some of his director responsibility’s and this January was told he could become dean of students or principal of a new alternative school while he “waited to retire on disability.” Two months later former principal Jeff Eben reportedly told Hile he could only return in 2016-17 as a teacher. Hile says both Linzey and Eben repeatedly “strongly suggested he medically retire.” Eventually he provided a physician’s certification that he
could perform the “essential functions” of the dean of students. That offer was rescinded in June and Eben placed him on administrative leave until the end of the school year when he was terminated. He is the second administrator to sue CVCHS after dismissal. The first suit was settled in favor of the school. At least two former employees have also filed legal claims against the school. Hile, through his attorney Jayme Walker, says “Clayton Valley is a good school and has wonderful students, teachers and staff. It has the potential
to be a great school, but it can’t meet that potential in an environment of discrimination and retaliation.” Walker added, “Greg Hile was a respected administrator for Clayton Valley Charter High School. Rather than treat him fairly when he was diagnosed with an illness, he was forced into a demotion. When he complained of discrimination, he was terminated. This conduct is blatantly illegal and outrageous and we intend to seek justice for Mr. Hile.” The school issued the following statement: “It’s unfortunate Mr. Hile felt the need to
AFTER
SERVING JUST ONE YEAR
of CVCHS, Jeff Eben (left) resigned. Dr. Patrick Gaffney (right) will serve as principal for this school year.
AS PRINCIPAL
been asked to transition from deputy principal to interim principal for the remainder of the 2016-2017 school year. As a seasoned administrator who helped open CVCHS, the Board values his history with CVCHS in this new leadership role. NEW ADMINISTRATORS NAMED
St. Mary’s College faculty member Monica Fitzgerald was an active Northgate parent while McMorris was principal. “Mr. McMorris was ‘the new sheriff in town’ at Northgate. He brought spirit to the community and new programs to the school. He’s a transformative leader who brought the Northgate community to a whole new level. We were very saddened when he left.” Fitzgerald added, “We’re very happy for Clayton Valley getting the opportunity to work with him.”
STUDENTS AIR FEARS At the CVCHS board meeting several dozen students were in the audience and a few spoke during the public comment period bemoaning the resignation of their principal
See Shakeup, page 18
Former director Hile charges Charter with discrimination
Greg Hile was hired as a teacher at Clayton Valley High School in 2009 and by 2014 was director of operations and administrative services at the now charter high school. At the end of the most recent 2015-16 school year Hile was terminated and is now suing the school and executive director David Linzey, charging “age and disability discrimination, harassment, retaliation and wrongful termination.” In his 15-page lawsuit filed in Contra Costa Superior Court last month, the 60-year-old Hile says he was diagnosed last year with Parkinson’s disease. He
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use the courts to unfairly attack the school and our administration for personal motives. CVCHS denies all allegations contained in Hile’s complaint. We intend to wholeheartedly contest Hile’s personal and frivolous accusations. “As this is subject to pending litigation, and because it involves personnel matters protected by privacy laws, CVCHS cannot comment on any specifics at this time. We respect the legal process but are confident CVCHS will prevail in this unnecessary lawsuit.” —Jay Bedecarré
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 7, 2016
Marsh Creek area property becomes parkland CAROLYN JONES Special to the Pioneer
The East Bay Regional Park District, in cooperation with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, has purchased a 76-acre former ranch on the eastern slopes of Mt. Diablo. The Hanson Hills property will become part of the future Deer Valley Regional Park,
extending the park’s southern boundary to Marsh Creek Road. The park district purchased the land from Save Mount Diablo for $730,000, its appraised fair market value. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy contributed $547,500, and Measure WW funds covered the remainder. “This beautiful property will be a tremendous asset for
generations of East Bay residents,” said Diane Burgis, a park district board member. “It’s also a critical part of the Marsh Creek watershed. We’re thrilled to be able to protect this ecologically sensitive area forever.” The property encompasses canyons and ridges covered with blue oak forests and native grasslands, as well as a seasonal stream that drains to Marsh Creek. The ridgetops provide panoramic views of Mt. Diablo, the Marsh Creek corridor and Morgan Territory Regional Preserve. It’s home to eagles, hawks, coyotes, mountain lions, deer, foxes and other species. The acquisition secures important land links that provide habitat for a number of special status species, including the Califor-
The Hanson children, all in their 80s, remember fishing for steelhead with their grandfather in Marsh Creek, just across the road, and camping out on warm nights atop the tallest hill. It was important to the family that the land they love so dearly be protected forever. “With this transaction, not only have we preserved essential wildlife habitat and ensured the protection of a strategic parcel that can later support outdoor public recreation and education, but we have also generated funds to protect Scott Hein more lands around Mt. DiaTHE HANSON HILLS PROPERTY is the latest acquisition by EBRPD. The 76 acres is part of the Marsh Creek watershed. blo,” noted Ted Clement, executive director of Save Mount nia red-legged frog and Alame- efforts to preserve land around Diablo. “It is valuable to have a da whipsnake. Mt. Diablo. Save Mount Dialocal land trust, the East Bay The purchase represents an blo acquired the property from important piece in long-term the Hanson family in 2014.
See Parkland, page 5
Take special care with holiday packages around. If you hear rattling, no coverage. Use bubble repack the items more wrap or Styrofoam packagsecurely. ing peanuts for breakable Before shipping gifts for • Examine the box. It’s best items. the upcoming holiday season, to always use a new box to • Don’t cover a box with be sure you know how to ship. However, if you are paper. A paper cover can pack safely so nothing is brousing a slightly used box, be get caught on the conveyor ken in transit. sure to examine it for any belt and be torn off, causHere are some basic tips: damage. Boxes with holes ing loss of the shipping or obvious corner or side label. • Make sure that there are at damage are not recom- • Do not use Duct or maskleast two inches of cushmended. A package need be ing tape. These tapes can ioning on all sides of the strong enough to survive a lose adhesiveness if item. fall from a conveyor belt exposed to extreme tem• Perform the “shake test.” system. peratures. After packing the box, • Don’t use paper for cushshake it and listen for any ioning. Paper tends to comThese basic rules are sufnoise from items moving press and provide little or ficient for most items, but TRICIA TAMURA Special to the Pioneer
more fragile or valuable items require a higher level of protection. For example, a glass picture frame needs more specialized cushioning than clothing. If you need help or have questions about packing gifts, call the UPS Store. A packaging expert will offer suggestions. Or bring in wrapped gifts, and we can pack up a shipment for you. The UPS Store is at 5100 Clayton Rd., Suite B1, Concord, CA 94521; 925.689.6245.
Weapons Station history comes to life at Historical Society meeting STEVE LANE Concord Historical Society
Local historian John A. Keibel will talk about the Concord Naval Weapons Station at the annual meeting of the Clayton Historical Society on Nov. 10. The subject is timely, with a pending Master Plan for substantial residential and commercial development by the city of Concord on the west side of Mt. Diablo Creek, along with parkland development by the National Park Service and the East Bay Regional Park District on the east side of the creek and up to the Concord hills ridgeline. Keibel is the author of “Behind the Barbed Wire: History of Naval Weapons Station
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Concord.” For much of its 63year life, the station was the largest West Coast ammunition transshipment port. Keibel’s presentation fleshes out the statistical history with stories from individuals whose lives were affected by the naval base. It’s an intricate web of life and loss, national defense and protest, scientific advance and obsolescence. The current Clayton Museum exhibit focuses on the Bay Point and Clayton Railroad Co. (BP&C) that was acquired by the Navy in 1946. At the time, the Port Chicago Naval Magazine was expanding to include the Concord “inland area” – creating the familiar landscape of ammunition bunkers and snaking U.S. Navy railroad tracks in the hills, surrounded by miles and miles of barbed wire and “No Trespassing” signs. The annual meeting and potluck will be followed by the
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MAYOR’S CORNER
Concerts in the Grove Park: Our 10-concert season has ended with record attendance, and I am happy to report it was a huge success. The word is out, and Clayton is getting kudos from residents of cities near and far for being one of the best
annual elections. The event begins at 6 p.m. at Diamond Terrace Retirement Living, 6401 Center St., Clayton. Keibel’s presentation will begin at 7. Suggested donation for the speaking presentation is $5 at the door. The Clayton Historical Society was founded in 1974 to “research, collect, record, preserve, display, borrow, share and interpret local history information and memorabilia, and to promote understanding of Clayton’s origins and development.” The Board of Directors ensures that the society’s and the museum’s mission is upheld. The annual meeting’s guest speakers typically draw members and potential new members to the event. Recent speakers have included Rod Plaisted, a magician, WWII veteran, CHP officer, private investigator and private railway owner; James M. “Doc” Hale
and Dean L. McLeod discussing the Native Americans of the East Bay and the cultural significance of Mt. Diablo Creek; and real-life Rosie the Riveters from the Richmond National Historic Park. For more information about the Clayton Historical Society, visit claytonhistory.org or contact the museum (925) 672-0240.
Grove concerts a growing phenomenon venues for summer concerts. A schedule for next year’s concerts will be announced soon. This year, we started our own Facebook page, “Concerts in the Grove – Clayton, CA.” Please “friend” it to get notices about the next concert series and other future Clayton events. Taxdeductible donations can also be made to the city for next year’s concerts. I am also pleased to report that the Grove Park restrooms just had some major water sup-
ply upgrades. We are hoping this will help alleviate some of the “flushing” issues and long lines during the concerts and other major events. The Clayton Theatre Company will be performing “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown” in October at Endeavor Hall on Center Street. Tickets can be bought at the box office one hour before curtain call or online at www.brownpapertickets.com or www.claytontheatrecompany.com.
See Mayor, page 13
October 7, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 5
Orchid show a chance to nurture love of flowers JACKIE KRSTULOVICH Special to the Pioneer
People often purchase an orchid at the market because of its irresistible beauty, but then they aren’t sure about its care. The phalaenopsis commonly sold is just one of 25,000 orchid species found in the wild. It can give you years of pleasure and beauty with minimal care. They’re one of the easiest orchids to grow and rebloom. The flowers grow well on a windowsill with indirect light, weekly watering and occasional transplanting. Orchids are one of the largest plant groups on earth and have been found on every continent except Antarctica. Orchids used to be a very expensive and rare possession afforded only by society’s elite class. But with today’s mass production techniques, orchids are within everyone’s budget. Those who want further education on orchid care or wish to expand into different types of orchids are welcome to attend a Diablo View Orchid Society (DVOS) meeting. This is the only orchid society located in Contra Costa County. Its members have extensive knowledge and passion for orchids, and they are more than willing to share that
We specialize in educating you to improve and maintain your wellness SUNG H. LEE, President of Diablo View orchid Society will be on hand at the annual orchid Show and Sale, Sat. oct 15 when orchids from around the world will be on display at the Willow Pass Recreation Center.
knowledge with anybody interested. Orchid societies are a great way of mastering the cultural requirements of orchids or to experiment with collecting and growing other species of orchids. The society has monthly meetings with expert guest lecturers who present various topics on orchids. It also has monthly raffles, which is an easy way to expand and diversify an orchid collection. The DVOS will be hosting a show and sale 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, at the Willow Pass Recreation Center, 2748 East Olivera Road, Concord. Orchids from around the world will be on display. The
Parkland, from page 4 Regional Park District and the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy working together to conserve valuable
landscapes for species while also providing park and recreation opportunities for the growing population,” added
event will include ribbon judging, orchid workshops, orchids and supplies for sale, a raffle, repotting service and a free orchid with new member signup. “It is a great opportunity to get to see different varieties of orchids on display,” says Sung H. Lee, DVOS president. “Also, you will have a chance to talk to experts and ask any orchid-related questions you may have.” Admission is $5, or $3 with a postcard available to print at www.dvos.org. Those under 12 are free. Krstulovich is a board member of the Diablo View Orchid Society.
Salvatore Evola, chair of the Habitat Conservancy board. The land will remain closed to the public (“land banked”) until the Deer Valley Regional Park Land Use Plan is completed.
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Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Vigilance needed as holidays approach
Letter to the Editor
Resident lauds Clayton PD and Good Samaritan
It can happen to everybody and on Sept. 15 it happened to me. lost my cellphone and, after going through a series of emotions, took steps to acquire a new phone. Advising family and friends and downloading my favorite apps took time but on Sept. 21, I was all set with my new phone. And then, a phone call on our landline from our Clayton PD – the lost phone was at the police staion. My sincere thanks go out to Officer Alan Pike for spending time to find me – all he had to work with was my first name so he had a lot of research to do. And a very warm thank you to the gentleman who found my phone on Mt. Wilson Way and dropped it off at the Clayton Police Department. Thank you sir for your honesty – the world needs more people like you. Gentlemen, you both made my day. It also does not hurt to have a backup phone. Thea Bay Clayton
Call Pete today to sell your home
(925) 890-6004
Pete Laurence
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expensive than others? A: Proximity to schools has increasingly become a high priority for families. Buyers and sellers near topranked schools often expect higher median list prices. Even within the same town, such as Concord, the school rankings are all over the map. The difference can sometimes mean 10 percent to 28 percent higher prices, according to Move, Inc. Clayton is an area where all three schools (grammar, middle and high school) are top rated and sought-after. Some families seeking a new home may find it costprohibitive, and they go so
far as looking in other states. They look for areas where there are excellent school districts that meet their price range. There are other key elements involved in making important housing decisions. Buyers also tend to look at proximity to jobs, freeways and shopping as well as property tax rates. These all tend to be higher-priced areas.
the practical needs of those struggling in the community. All proceeds of the Turkey Trot go to Compassion Outreach. Some examples of the program’s efforts are Harvest to Home, which provides meals on Thanksgiving, and Clean Start that funds loads of laundry at local laundromats. This is the second year of Turkey Trot Concord. A free Kids Dash is at 8 a.m. The 5K and 10K run and walk start at 8:15 a.m. The courses are new, flat and on major streets to accommodate a crowd. Last year’s race had almost 900 participants and raised $10,000. “(We) hope to have 1,500 this year and grow this new family and friends holiday tradition in Concord,” Graham says. Refreshments, including pumpkin pie, are included.
Awards are given for top finishers. Sponsors and volunteers are needed. The event wraps up by 10 a.m., so plan to wake up, pop the turkey in the oven, head downtown to pre-burn some holiday calories and be home in time for parades, football, turkey and to gobble up another piece of pumpkin pie. Registration is limited to the first 1,500 people. Cost is $30 and includes a race T-shirt and finisher’s medal. Bring two nonperishable items for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano and get a free turkey leg headband while supplies last. Todos Santos Plaza is at 2151 Salvio St., Concord.
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boo floors passed all tests, however. Cork is also considered a renewable resource because it’s cut from the bark without killing the tree. But the best product tested by Consumer Reports was more expensive than the high-rated bamboo products tested. They also recommend Armstrong Marmorette, a LynnE FREnCH linoleum that blends linseed oil REAL ANSWERS and tree bark without killing the tree. This was the highest Q: What are some floor- scoring linoleum in the Coning materials that are eco- sumer Reports test. friendly? A: Though oak flooring Q: What are the reasons may still be the most desirable, that some areas within the there are some green alterna- Bay Area are so much more tives that did well in a battery of Consumer Reports tests – including scuffs, scrapes, spills and other abuse. Manufacturers heavily promote bamboo as a renewable resource, but some bamboo products are still prone to denting and sun-induced color change. Top of the line bam-
THE
Chris Wenzel is Chief of Police of Clayton. Send questions and comments to chris.wenzel@claytonpd.com or call 925. 673.7350
Beyond oak, there are green floor options
Located on a quiet street, with a gourmet granite kitchen, upgraded baths, formal dining area, this home also has a 15' X 21' family room. Fireplace, forced air heat & cooling, dual pane windows, nice patio & yards and newly landscaped, drought tolerant front yard. All this for only $499,900!
SERVICE
During the holiday season I meet with local Post Office staff and other mail carriers to remind them to also be vigilant and to alert law enforcement should they see something suspicious. Lastly, we continue to have issues with damage to the gazebo at The Grove. Please tell your children to enjoy the park but observe the rules that are on the signs that are at the entrances. The gazebos are not play structures so please treat with respect.
School has started and is in full swing. The weather is changing and we will start to go into the holiday season. As a community, we become very busy and even though we are one of the safest cities
Holbrook home home Expanded holbrook with huge family room!
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this holiday and need to be reminded about pedestrian safety and being seen. Please make sure that your children are safe and also inspect their treats to make sure they are appropriate and safe. Please drive safely as well. Watch out for the little guys in dark costumes. They are hard to see. As the holiday season approaches, let’s be diligent in making parcels and personal property less accessible to criminals. I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating. Don’t leave packages, computers, phones, purses, etc., in plain view in your car. Lock everything up in the trunk or take it with you.
BEHIND
This large home is in good condition with granite updated bathrooms, a 3-car garage, large RV parking, a parklike yard, and a spa and swimming pool! Indoor laundry room, vaulted ceilings, a pantry and a wet-bar, and priced to sell!
KNOWLEDGE
in the state, we still need to be vigilant. I recently attended a neighborhood watch meeting and was very happy to see 25 residents getting involved and reporting back to me their concerns. 100 percent of those in attendance appreciated the police department’s service and that confirms to me the dedication of my staff. It’s important to hear what the issues are in our community and it’s because of the community’s involvement we are a safe city to work and reside in. Halloween is coming and it’s important to make sure our trick and treaters are safe. Children get very excited during
CHRIS WEnzEL
bedroom Clayton 5 Bedroom for only $760,000
The time is NOW
October 7, 2016
CCC Certified Fire Abatement
Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672.8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.
Thanksgiving run is a family-friendly fundraiser PAMELA WIESENDANGER Clayton Pioneer
Set the alarm and wake up early to a new tradition on Thanksgiving with Turkey Trot Concord on Nov. 24 at Todos Santos Plaza. “It’s a great family-friendly event, a great way to kick off the holiday,” says Linda Graham. Graham and her husband Darrell, members of Calvary Temple Church, presented the idea of the turkey trot to church staff as an opportunity to get back into the community. The church performed the Singing Flag for 25 years, but it was canceled in 2014 as the church decided to put their resources elsewhere. According to Graham, that includes Calvary’s Compassion Outreach – a program to meet
To register and for more details, go to turkeytrotconcord.org or call 643.1207.
October 7, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Obituary 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 B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration, Calendar Editor S TAFF W RITERS : Peggy Spear, Pamela Wiesendanger, Jay Bedecarré, Bev Britton
C ORRESPONDENTS : Kara Navolio, John T. Miller, Jennifer Leischer
We remember Jill Bedecarré
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. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 175 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have
priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters must be submitted via E-mail. CIRCULATION
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 free 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.
Daniel Shaw
July 18, 1958 – August 18, 2016
Daniel Kenneth Shaw, a devoted family man, died Aug. 18 in Clayton. He was 58. Dan fought a courageous 2 ½-year battle against multiple myeloma. Doing all he could to compete against the disease, his positive outlook never wavered. He is survived by his longtime wife, companion and friend Heather C. Shaw, and children Sarah A. and Zachary D. Shaw. Dan matriculated at UC Santa Barbara, majoring in accounting and dabbling in political science. Upon graduation in 1982, he joined his parents in Washington – where they were the proud owners of Richardson General Store on Lopez Island. Dan spent his summers working at the store, drawing him to the Pacific Northwest where he met his future wife, Heather Robertson of Bellevue, Wash. Dan and Heather were married at Center Church on Lopez Island on June 3, 1989. Not long after, they were blessed with the births of Sarah (1991) and Zachary (1994). In 1997, Dan was promoted to information and technology services officer at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. With this promotion, the Shaws relocated from Kirkland, Wash., to Clayton. In 2001, Dan became an
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 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144
Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500 Italian Heritage Tile & Stone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9000 J.A. Ronco Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .872-3049
Mr. Fix-it Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0347 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dining and Entertainment
investment advisor. His sense of fair play, integrity, ethics and honesty were assets to him in this line of work. Dan’s lifelong pursuits and interests included most sports as a fan and participant. More importantly, Dan loved being a father. He never ceased to be amazed by how much love he had for his children. Spending time with them was what made life worth living and having them, as well as his wife, by his side throughout this battle gave him strength to the end. A celebration of Dan’s life will be held Oct. 15 at the Oakhurst Country Club Heritage Room in Clayton. Please contact Heather by email at heatherdks@yahoo.com for more information. Donations may be made in Dan’s name to UC San Francisco for the Multiple Myeloma Translational Initiative Fund, Box 0248, San Francisco, CA 94143-0248.
Recycle this Bocce, newspaper from page 1
The winning team, sponsored by Ed and Stephanie Moresi, is made up of Carol Ricetti-Nolen, Aldo Ricetti, Ricky Nolen and Linda and Larry Mullen. The 14-12 championship game against Mazzei Realty had several ties, many tense moments and a wonderfully bowled final game-winning frame by Ricetti. Ricetti-Nolen captains the team, which has been playing together since the Clayton bocce park opened in 2014. For her, the best part of playing bocce is “the people – the community.” To help support the fundraiser, her team donated $300 of their winnings back to the CBCA. Since starting in 2001 with members of the CBCA forming a Sunday league, the Clayton Bocce League is growing steadily. After the Ipsen Family Bocce Park was built, the league moved from Newhall Park to downtown Clayton. Many teams from the league’s inception still play, going on 15 years of continuous play. The CBCA decided this year would be the last CBCA Golf Classic at Oakhurst. Going forward, they will host the bocce tournament honoring Ipsen, who died in March. “I think Skip probably invented the word community,” says Ed Moresi, who worked at Skipolini’s for 15 years. “He was pretty much the guy who brought it all together and got everyone to know where Clayton was.” Ipsen’s wife Linda, who played in the tournament on a family team, said Skip would have been delighted with the event. “He was very excited about the bocce park,” she says. “One of the most wonderful things that happened to him was with bocce ball. He had gone to the post office and dropped by the park. There was a group of disabled kids playing and he came home crying. He said, ‘That’s what this is all about.’ ” Michael Fossan contributed to this story
Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440
Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Events
Clayton Theatre Company
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Contra Costa Home & Garden Show
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .capitalshowcase.com
CVCHS – Holiday Faire . . . . .cvchspfc.com/holiday-faire
Diablo View Orchid Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .dvos.org
Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . .800-949-3276 Financial, Insurance and Legal Services
Aragon, Al - Citibank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-697-5000 Geraghty, Colleen – Prudential . . . . . . . . . . . . .305-0321
Littorno, Richard – The Law Office of . . . . . . . .432-4211
Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . .672-2300 Funerals
Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Health and Wellness
Harvest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-2305 Home and Garden
Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955
Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-5609 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243
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Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services
The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Pet Services and Supplies
Peace of Mind Pet Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9781 Rodie’s Feed and Pet Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 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 Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593
Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . .305-9099
Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . .567-6170
Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness
Blaze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.blazetravelball.com Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301-7496
East Bay Regional Park District . . . . . . . .888-327-2757 Senior Services
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Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . .682-4518 Travel
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Respect
Do the Right Thing
Page 8
ORCHID
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Event connects those in need with county services
Show & Sale
Oct. 15, Sat. 10-5
Willow Pass Rec. Center for info
www.DVOS.ORG
CLAYTON FURNITURE INC. A Family Business all since 1988 New F ls! a i c e Sp
3400 Clayton Rd. Concord, CA 94519
(925) 686-2299
Claytonfurnitureinc.com ucin y y Eas a d n Su tening Lis sic 4-7pm Introd
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KAREn MITCHoFF
COUNTY
SUPERVISOR
Although the economic outlook for the Bay Area is projected to steadily rise, members of our community need immediate assistance with the very basic needs in life. I am proud to recognize Project Homeless Connect (PHC), an annual one-day event hosted by Contra Costa County Homeless Services. During this day, a variety of community services for those who are homeless are provided in one location. The range
of support comes in many ways, including health care, benefits enrollment, state identification cards, school enrollment, haircuts, court sessions and emergency housing. PHC will be held 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Antioch Fairgrounds, 1201 W. 10th St. As a commissioner of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority, I am pleased to note that free rides will be provided to PHC from throughout the county. The pick-up and drop-off locations for Concord include the Concord Shelter, 2047 Arnold Industrial Dr., with pickups at 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon, and Monument Crisis Center, 1990 Market
6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440 Entertainment from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Oct. 7, 8 .................................................Tone Pony Oct. 14, 15 .........................................Desert Moon Oct. 21, 22............................................The Relyks Oct. 28, 29 ...................................................Plan B Nov. 4, 5......................................Southbound Band
Karaoke Mon. & Wed. nights Open Mic Thur. nights, 8-11 pm
www.claytonclubsaloon.com
Beer only. Good anytime with original coupon. Exp. 11/10/16
2 for the price of 1
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St., with pickups at 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. The volume of recipients attending PHC requires a multitude of volunteers to make this event a success. Volunteers are needed to help serve breakfast and lunch, assist with navigation of services and support service providers. My office will be present and participating in PHC, and I hope you will join us as well. I want to thank those who have donated time, materials and services for this important event, because PHC would not be possible without them. I will be holding the first of once-monthly mobile office hours at the recently refreshed Concord Library.
On the first Saturday of the month, I will be at one of the libraries in District IV to provide more convenient and accessible off-work hours to constituents. You don’t have to live in the city where I’ll be; any constituent is welcome to drop by. These hours are first come, first serve and no RSVP is required. For more information, call 925.521.7100. Contra Costa County’s District IV includes Clayton, Concord, Pleasant Hill and a portion of Walnut Creek.
Karen Mitchoff is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to karen.mitchoff@bos.cccounty.us
‘Flowers’ bloom as Clayton reads together of the foster care system. She saw children moving from home to home, being separated from siblings and then being released into the world on their 18th birthday with little support or services. Each year, nearly 20,000 young people age out of America’s foster care system, and many of them have nowhere to go. Victoria is a character described in both her best and worst to give
KAREN HANSEN Special to the Pioneer
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Live m
October 7, 2016
In “The Language of Flowers,” author Vanessa Diffenbaugh takes the sad story of children “aging out” of the foster care system and turns it into an extraordinary novel. The book is this year’s choice for Clayton Reads. While supply lasts, readers can pick up a free copy of the book at the Clayton Library. The Clayton Community Library Foundation, sponsor of the program, only asks that readers pass the book along to another reader when finished. The 9th annual Clayton Reads takes place Oct. 1-Nov. 16. The program is a part of the Contra Costa Library’s “One City, One Book” program. The idea is to encourage community members to focus on reading one book and to join book discussions, programs and presentations related to the book. Special programs for Clayton Reads include a flower art exhibit by members of the Creekside Artists, a flower arrangement demonstration from Sonset Flowers and a discussion on foster children by the Northern California Family Center. Set in San Francisco and Napa Valley, “The Language of Flowers” tells the story of Victoria. The teen is emancipated from foster care, leav-
ing her alone and emotionally barricaded. Her gift for flowers helps her change the lives of others even as she struggles to overcome her troubled past. Diffenbaugh has always enjoyed the language of flowers, having discovered it at a young age. She also likes the complication of a young women who has trouble communicating with others using a forgotten language that almost nobody understands. The author was born in San Francisco and raised in Chico. After studying creative writing and education at Stanford, she went on to teach art and writing to youth in low-income communities. She has always had a passion for working with young people. As her work began to focus on youth in foster care and she eventually became a foster parent, Diffenbaugh became aware of the injustice
readers a deeper understanding of the realities of foster care. The debut novel was wellreceived by reviewers and was a New York Times best-seller. Booklist says: “Enchanting, ennobling and powerfully engaging, Diffenbaugh’s artfully accomplished debut novel lends poignant testimony to the multitude of mysteries held in the human heart.”
Clayton Reads programs
All programs are at the Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. • Art Exhibit. October-November. Floral-themed art pieces by members of the Creekside Artists. The display includes depictions of some flowers mentioned in the book. • Book Discussion. 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 24. Join other readers and share your thoughts about the book. • Working with Foster Kids. 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26. Assumpta Kamani, a social worker with the Northern California Family Center, will talk about the center’s foster care program. NCFC is a nonprofit licensed foster family agency in Martinez that has served the needs of youth and families for more than 38 years. • Art Project for School-Age Children and Parents. 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10. Make a fantastic fall bouquet and a special vase. • Flower Arranging Demonstration. 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16. Learn tips, tricks and techniques as a fall-themed arrangement is made from start to finish. One lucky winner gets to take the arrangement home. Hosted by Sonset Flowers.
Look before you leap into a computer purchase
It happens all the time: You go shopping and there is the deal of a lifetime. Well maybe not a lifetime, but for this shopping spree, it’s exactly what you want. So you buy it without close examination because it’s just like the other one you liked – but cheaper. Building a computer is a mix and match assembly of differing manufacturers and components. No one company makes everything that’s going to be inside a computer, which is a fact that is hidden from the public. The key is to be informed, or at least look like it. Sales reps tell wonderful stories about the computer they are trying to sell you. Well, I tell stories too – mea culpa.
So if you have time to factcheck, do it. But there is often too much to learn in a short time. There is a difference between a “pig in a poke” and a good investment. The investment helps you attain your goals, while a pig in a poke is just a lesser quality product wrapped in a blanket – like pigs in a blanket (but you can’t eat them). A pig in a poke is an offer or deal that is foolishly accepted without first being examined. The advice means don’t buy a pig until you have seen it. This is enshrined in British commercial law as caveat emptor, Latin for “let the buyer beware.” This remains the guiding principle of commerce in
many countries and, in essence, supports the view that if you buy something you take responsibility to make sure it is what you intended to buy. Ask the salesperson to open the computer and show you the parts inside. If they can’t, then have then describe all the parts inside in detail. If they can’t, I think you should walk away. Let me tell you what you don’t want. First, avoid an HP because of too many overheating design issues. Second, you don’t want a computer with a Seagate hard disk drive (HD or HDD), because Seagate HDs crash more often than others due to a design defect (BSY, a firmware defect). Instead choose Toshiba, Western Digital or some
WILL CLAnEy
TECH TALK
other brand. Third, you don’t want “value” RAM; select Samsung or Crucial brands in “matched” sets. RAM can be mismatched, thereby creating systemwide crashes. Even if you’re not a computer tech, you can look like one by opening the chassis (box) and peeking (knowingly) into the bag, err, box. You deserve to know.
William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.
October 7, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 9
Rattlesnake wranglers are at the ready A few weeks ago, Clayton resident Erin Wilson was working in her garage when neighbor Stan Roe came by, heading home after a walk. As they chatted, he spotted a mature rattlesnake in Wilson’s front yard. It’s not uncommon to see snakes in this neighborhood, which is nestled into the northern foothills of Mt. Diablo. But what happened next isn’t so common. Wilson is a docent in Mt. Diablo State Park, as is Roe’s wife, Jenn. Roe alerted Jenn, who came to help Wilson keep the snake in sight. No one ran for a shovel. No one called Animal Services. Instead, they summoned naturalist Michael Marchiano, who will go anywhere in the area to capture and resettle a snake that has wandered into residential areas. The two women knew that the native rattler is passive and not the hissing, pugnacious
STACI HoBBET
ON THE MOUNTAIN
critter that urban legend maintains. They kept it corralled and in sight by moving along the perimeter of the yard until it retired, watchful, under a shrub. Marchiano arrived in about 30 minutes, bringing what little equipment he needed for the capture: a snake hook and a lightweight, glass-fronted terrarium for transport. “Within 60 seconds, seriously, he scooped up the snake,” Jenn Roe said. Wilson said he then “took
the time to educate us,” talking about the difference between rattlesnakes, gopher snakes and king snakes. “The rattlesnake never attempted to attack,” Marchiano noted. “The snake rattled in warning and tried to escape but never attempted to strike.” If this happens again, he advised them to put a large box over the snake and weigh it down to keep the snake in place. However, death is the much more common fate for a snake – any kind of snake – that ventures out of protected areas. Homeowners, worried about the safety of their children and pets, have reason for some concern. But we’re lucky in our region, because the Northern Pacific rattlesnake is our only poisonous snake and it’s a retiring soul. It wants only to flee to safety and is unlikely to strike unless cornered or stepped on. Its venom is very
seldom deadly. Rattlers are arguably more dangerous to pets, especially to inquisitive and unschooled dogs – which present big, snuffling noses just waiting to be honked. Despite any danger, it’s important to let rattlers live simply because they are deadly for rodents. Their favorite meal is a ground squirrel, and they love rats and mice as well. If residents become more tolerant of seeing a snake taking an occasional tour of a neighborhood, they won’t put out poison – which is much more dangerous than a lone rattler wondering which way is home.
To rescue a snake, call docents Michael Marchiano at 925-372-6328 or Dirk Muehlner at 925.876.2874.
Call fo Interio r special coupo rs Panach e n ders o of $150 for o ver qu ra amoun lifying t
Staci Hobbet is a docent with the Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association. You can send email to her at anastasiahobbet@gmail.com
Haruf puts his ‘Soul’ into final book
It’s a great pleasure to recommend Kent Haruf ’s last book, published posthumously in 2015. “Our Souls at Night” is a small gem. Haruf has left a literary legacy held fast in the fictional town of Holt, Colo. Holt is a small town with its inhabitants, as in all small towns, knowing just about all they need to know about one another. Or so they think. “Our Souls at Night” is the story of two senior citizens, seemingly at peace with their widowed lives until Addie comes knocking on the door of her neighbor Louis. After many years of widowhood, Addie decides that what she misses most of all is someone to be with through the night. Someone to talk with, to sleep next to, to fill that loneliest part of her life. Addie and Louis are neighbors of many years. Not friends, but certainly not strangers. Cautiously, she asks if Louis might like to try out
such an arrangement. Come by in the evening, share some small talk and then retire to her bedroom. She is careful to explain she is not looking for love, but for that special companionship at night – a companionship she never really experienced with her husband throughout a difficult marriage. Haruf ’s writing, with its simplicity of language, spare yet endearing, moves both the story and the reader into a
landscape of change. Addie and Louis, full of curiosity and hope, enter into the arrangement with a slowly growing delight and discovery of themselves. Old stories, regrets and secrets are shared, children are spoken of, and a rare intimacy develops. What begins very privately eventually becomes known in the community of Holt. It also becomes known to their children. Haruf does not cut corners. Neither the townsfolk nor their offspring approve. Addie and Louis continue the relationship, riding out the town’s disapproval. Louis is able to deal with his daughter, but Addie’s son fears his mother is being taken advantage of by Louis. The son’s own marriage is failing, and Addie’s grandson is sent to live with her for a period of time. But instead of creating a wedge between Addie and Louis, the young boy binds them more closely than ever.
was whether it was more costeffective to construct and operate a few large windmills on each wind farm, or several small ones. It turns out the answer to that question changed with time. In the early 1980s, a summit visitor could view examples of each technology. The first wind farms of the Altamont area employed small windmills, generally with a capacity in the range of 40-80 kW (1,000 kW = 1 MW). In 1982, PG&E contracted with Boeing to install one of the first operational large windmills. The MOD-2 was rated at 2500 kW. It was installed in southern Solano County, easily visible from Mt. Diablo as it was located across Interstate 680, just beyond the mothball fleet on the Sacramento River. The MOD-2 was a monster windmill. It had a wingspan of 300 feet and the propeller weighed 90 tons. The rotating area of the blade was more than 75,000 sq. ft. Wing tip speeds reached 275 feet per second, almost 190 mph. The first attempts at designing and building large windmills like the MOD-2 were not commercially successful because of maintenance and reliability issues. Small capacity windmill
installation, however, increased and solar energy generation rapidly in the wind farm areas. will help reach that goal. The dawn of the 21st centuWoody Whitlatch is a meteorry marked a new phase in wind farm development. Engineering ologist retired from PG&E. Email advances in blade design, pro- your questions or comments to peller materials and increased clayton_909@yahoo.com efficiency has resulted in a new generation of windmills with ratings in the 1,000 to 2,500 kW range, comparable to the original Boeing MOD-2. The Altamont wind farm area was populated by nearly 1,600 small turbines in 1985. Twenty-years later, the total reached close to 4,000. Beginning in 2010, a program began to replace the small old turbines at Altamont. Each of the new larger turbines produces enough electricity to replace about 23 old ones. The Shiloh wind farm area was developed in four phases between 2005 and 2012. The 750 windmills in this farm generate enough electricity to power about 700,000 homes. Windmill installations are predicted to increase in both the wind farms visible from the top of Mt. Diablo. California has set a goal of 33 percent renewable contribution to the total power portfolio by 2020. Currently, PG&E gets about 20 percent of its energy from renewables. Growth in wind
Sunny SoLoMon
BOOKIN’ WITH SUNNY
The story is not a sweet, ever-after tale (no matter how much the reader may want it), but life often interferes beyond our good intentions. Haruf has written an honest story, a very grownup story. Addie and Louis are products of a powerful rural setting and community. It is heartening to read of such characters who learn not to fear change and that bridges can be built at any age. “Our Souls at Night” was the impetus for a lively discussion at the Clayton Community Book Club. Haruf ’s legacy of “Plainsong,” “Eventide,” “Benediction,” “Where You Once Belonged,” “The Tie that Binds” and “West of Last Chance” is worth reading and rereading. 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.’
Windmill energy an evolving field
WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS
On a clear day, the top of Mt. Diablo is the best place in the area to enjoy a multidimensional sense of the Bay Area’s geography. The panorama from the summit includes nearby hills and valleys, residential areas, rivers, bays and plenty of windmills. Two massive wind farms stand out: Shiloh to the north in southern Sonoma County and Altamont to the southeast in eastern Alameda County. Both farms are fed by winds from the same sea breeze that cools Clayton during summer. The first windmills popped up in southern Solano County and the Altamont area in the late 1970s and early 1980s. At that time, the wind industry was in its youth. One early design question
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Sports
Page 10
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 7, 2016
Eagles face strong field to win DAL football title JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
The new Diablo Athletic League begins its first football season this Friday evening and four-time DVAL champion Clayton Valley Charter will face a tough task in winning its fifth straight league title in the tough Valley Conference. The Ugly Eagles came through a tough preseason schedule, winning four of five games, but lost the services of standout runningback Akeal Lalaind, who injured his ankle in the Honor Bowl and underwent season-ending ankle surgery. CVCHS head coach Tim murphy is midway through his fifth season in charge and his high-flying Eagles have enjoyed lots of success primarily because of its wing-T offense that has piled up a slew of school and Section records. Due to injuries last year’s post-season run to the State Bowl Game for the second consecutive season was credited largely to a young defense. Now this season that squad is more experienced and more effective. The team gave up 21 points in its season-opener but only 28 points total in the four games since then. When asked who has been a standout on defense Murphy didn’t stop talking until he listed linemen Koti Vaisima, Chase Boustead, Jeff Williams and Andy De Lira, linebackers Bryce Brand, Justin Roper, Aaron Fonseca and Masi Latu and defensive backs Evan Barney, Brandon Abon and Adrian Dolo. The double dose of losing 13-0 to Helix of La Mesa and Lalaind to injury in the Honor Bowl came in the 60th game of coach Tim Murphy’s time in charge and was the first shutout of CVCHS in their eight losses in now 63 games over four plus seasons. Murphy has lauded his defense but also says quarterback Zia Rahmany is taking charge of the offense with junior James Teofilo and sophomore Thomas Alatini taking up the slack for their
JAMES TEOFILO
fallen senior runner. The first DAL game should be a doozy. Clayton Valley Charter travels to Orinda Friday to meet unbeaten Miramonte in a 7 p.m. game that figures to go a long way towards determining the Valley Conference champ. The teams have a history as the Mats eliminated CVCHS 4438 in the 2013 North Coast Section Division II semi-finals. Miramonte went on to win the NCS title, the only time in four years Clayton Valley wasn’t DII top dog at NCS and hand a Murphy-coached Eagles team its lone home defeat.
VALLEY CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
@ MIRAMONTE (5-0) OCT. 7 The Mats completed an unbeaten pre-season as coach Jack Schram’s offense revolves around senior quarterback Tim Tague who has thrown 19 TD passes against only three interceptions. Six of his receivers have each caught passes totally over 100 yards as Tague has spread his passes around. This week’s mid-season NCS rankings have Miramonte as the No. 1 team in Division III while Clayton Valley is ranked fourth in the Open Division behind De La Salle, Monte Vista and Pittsburg. The Mats five opponents have only won six games combined so the CVCHS-Mira matchup will be the first big test for the Orinda squad. Miramonte is the most decorated of DAL football programs with eight NCS titles ranging from 1981 to 2013. The Mats have won Section championships in the past four decades.
@ CONCORD (4-1) OCT. 14 The last two years Concord has gone all the way to the NCS DII championship game only to lose to CVCHS in the finale. In fact, the Minutemen have lost to their crosstown rivals in three of the past four section playoffs. Concord has lost seven successive games to CVCHS including three in NCS play. The rivals didn’t meet in 2010 playoffs when the Minutemen won the NCS title. Coach Mark Bywater’s squad lost its season opener 2726 in Vacaville to Wood High but since then quarterback Nick Nunez has led the Minutemen to four wins while the Concord defense has only given up only three touchdowns and one field goal over those four games in victories over former DVAL rivals Mt. Diablo and College Park plus Liberty of Brentwood
Jason Rogers
CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HAS MADE ITS FOOTBALL REPUTATION IN RECENT YEARS WITH A NEAR-UNSTOPPABLE RUNNING ATTACK. This year the ugly Eagles have featured a stingy defense. Linebackers Masi Latu (10) and Justin Roper (80) exemplify the swarming CVCHS defensive effort this year.
and Benicia. Nunez, who was second team all-league as sophomore, has thrown for nine TDs and run for six. On the downside he has six interceptions. Seniors Mike Davis Jr. is the top rusher and Joey Agostino is the leading receiver. Concord travels to Lafayette to meet Acalanes in the league opener Friday before having their annual crosstown battle with the Eagles.
ACALANES (3-2) OCT. 21 The Dons brought in 68year-old Floyd Burnsed to coach this year. He spent about 20 seasons coaching rival Miramonte through 2001 where he won five NCS titles. The Dons started with lopsided wins over Alhambra and Skyline of Oakland before coming up short to undefeated Heritage of Brentwood and one-loss Analy in Sebastopol. They finished their pre-DAL sked with a lopsided win over one-loss De Anza in El Sobrante. Junior Robby Rowell has already thrown over 200 passes for the Dons with 14 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He’s passed for 1572 yards with a trio of receivers—Aidan McNamara, Matt Burns and Brian Merken—catching at least 25 passes each. The Dons offense has gained more than
three times as many yards passing than rushing. Clayton Valley and Acalanes played each other in 1960 and 1961, trading victories, but have never met since, a period of 55 years. The Dons are the only Valley Conference school without a NCS football championship on its resume.
@ LAS LOMAS (0-5) OCT. 28 The Knights have lost all five games while reaching double figures in scoring only twice. Coach Mikhail Ress-Nathans has found the going tough in his first season and they figure to have a rough run in the tough Valley Conference this fall. Three of the five losses were by less than a touchdown and the pre-season finale was a 24-23 defeat to College Park. Las Lomas and Clayton Valley first met in 1960 with LL taking a 6-0 win. They tied 7-7 the following year. The teams renewed their rivalry on an annual basis from 1968-74 with Las Lomas only winning the ’72 clash. They had three more games in 1995-97. But the rivalry has been hottest in four NCS post-season matchups this century in 2003, 2005, 2008 and 2013. Las Lomas has four NCS titles (1992, 200203-05) and in two of those beat Clayton Valley. The most memorable game was the 2003 triple
Coach Kevin Macy’s team has won three of five pre-season games. The quarterback to receiver combo of Jacob Westphal to Vincent Mossoti has CAMPOLINDO (3-2) NOV. 4 highlighted a passing offense Like Clayton Valley Charter, searching for a consistent runCampo has been to the CIF ning game to complement. State championship game the Campo has won three NCS past two years, The Cougars were state champs in 2014. See Football, page 12 overtime NCS championship game won by the Knights 37-36. The Eagles have won the most recent two NCS matchups.
Miramonte-Clayton Valley make football history again This Friday evening Miramonte and Clayton Valley Charter football teams will meet in their first-ever Diablo Athletic League game, but it won’t be the first time the two schools make history. The Ugly Eagles (2012, 2014, 2015) and Mats (2013) have won the last four North Coast Section Division II championships, with Miramonte eliminating the Eagles to take the title three years ago. But their history goes way back from there. In fact, Clayton Valley’s first-ever varsity football game was Sept. 18, 1959 against Miramonte. The game had been scheduled for the Orinda school field but a torrential downpour a couple
days before the game forced it to be moved to Concord. Clayton Valley High School had opened a year earlier with JV football. The Eagles won that 1959 afternoon game 27-0 and a year later beat the Mats 24-0. The two schools didn’t meet again until Miramonte came back to Concord Nov. 29, 2013 and shocked the defending NCS champs 4438 in the Section semi-finals. That is the only home game CVCHS has lost in five years. Thanks to local sports historian Herc Pardi for background information. The Clayton resident is the former head football coach at Clayton Valley and Pittsburg high schools.
Joe Protheroe piling up the yards, honors for Cal Poly SLO football; ex-Eagle adds new daughter at home JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Valley Charter won its first-ever North Coast Section football championship in the fall of 2012 and runningback Joe Protheroe was the featured back in coach Tim Murphy’s wing-T offense. He ended up as the third leading prep runner in California with 3,014 yards while scoring 222 points as a senior. He committed to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for the fall of 2013 but delayed his college enrollment one year. Over the 2014-15 seasons he ran for nearly 1000 yards and as a sophomore last year was first-team allBig Sky Conference and third team STATS FCS all-America. The fullback has started off Photo courtesy Cal Poly Athletics his junior season with a bang. He FORMER CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER RUNNING BACK JOE PROTHEROE will long remember the fall rushed for career high 217 yards of 2016. But it won’t be so much about his breakout season for Cal Poly football as for the on 31 carries two weeks ago at birth of his second daughter with wife Ashley. The ex-ugly Eagle is balancing football, South Dakota State, earning the studies and home life during his junior year at SLo. junior fullback Big Sky Confer-
ence Offensive Player of the Week after he scored on runs of 76 and 13 yards to help the Mustangs to a 38-31 upset of the then-No. 9-ranked Jackrabbits. Protheroe also was an honorable mention for College Football Performance Awards National Performer of Week 3 in the Football Championship Subdivision and has been nominated for FCS Offensive HERO of the Week by Hero Sports. This year he rushed for 560 yards in the first four games and scored six touchdowns. He’s done all this while helping his wife Ashley raise their daughter Jolene and prepare for a second daughter that came the day before the South Dakota State game. “Going into the game I just told myself that I wanted to do better for both of my daughters now,” Protheroe said. “It gave me a lot of incentive to do well by them and do well by my teammates because we’re all one big
family now.” In fact, having a young family is one of the main reasons that Protheroe finds so much motivation on the field. “Obviously, first off my family motivates me. My family at home and on the field. My teammates, they motivate me as well, the coaches motivate me, I wanna do right by them and make them proud and make my family proud.” Being a young husband has also helped him on the field as he tries to be a leader for the rest of his team. “Just trying to make sure everyone’s all good on the field and in practice,” Protheroe said. “I try to lead by example and I’ll try to be more vocal as the season goes on probably.” His high school coach Murphy says, “He is a great father and husband. He defines everything we try to teach our players at CVCHS. Bottom line, he is the total package.”
Sports
October 7, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Athlete Spotlight
Ryan Fischer Grade: Senior
School: CVCHS
Sport: Football, Wrestling
CVCHS senior Ryan Fischer played football and wrestling throughout high school, spending all four years as a varsity wrestler and three seasons on the Ugly Eagles varsity football team. Fischer has shown what true dedication and perseverance means when you play a sport. While he had played football for nine years, baseball and wrestled for
10 years before high school, he chose to follow in his older brother’s footsteps and pursue football and wrestling at Clayton Valley Charter. “[Fischer] does everything right and treats everyone right, the way a man should,” says football coach Tim Murphy. “I’m very proud of him.” Fischer was an allDVAL guard last year for the North
Coast Section football champs and won the team’s Most Relentless award. Fischer was league wrestling champion at 220 pounds as a junior and was second as a sophomore, qualifying each time for NCS. Last winter he went to the State CIF wrestling meet by finishing second at NCS. “It’s fun to be a part of a team and to compete with your brothers; to represent us and see what we can do together,” Fischer says about his favorite part of playing high school sports. He is also a part of the AVID club and Medical Careers Academy at CVCHS. He plans to wrestle in college. CVCHS student journalist Sydney Skow contributed to this Spotlight.
The Clayton Pioneer congratulates Ryan 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 11
Jose Fernandez:
The American Dream
JACOB SAMUELS SPORTS TALK
It was a Sunday morning, Sept. 25 to be exact, when the sports world was changed forever. The life of a budding superstar, just 24-years-old, was lost in a tragic boating accident off the Miami coast. Jose Fernandez of the Miami Marlins was more than just a phenom, more than just a pitcher, more than just a baseball player. He was a symbol; he was a hero; he was an inspiration. The tragic death of this young man has been welldocumented. I will instead say a few words about what he meant to our lives and the
message he leaves us with. Jose lived The American Dream. He tried three times to escape Cuba and find exile here in the United States, surviving time in a Cuban prison after one of his captures. Finally, after risking his life to save a drowning woman who turned out to be his mother, he settled in Tampa Bay at just 15-years-old. He learned English and graduated high school, was drafted 14th overall by the Marlins in 2011 and became a United States citizen just last year. He also picked up a Rookie of the Year Award and two All-Star appearances along the way. Jose worked hard for everything he got and he earned every last bit of it. Jose was a hero too. He was the leader of his baseball team and a leader in the Miami community. He actually personally knew the Coast Guardsman who discovered his boat. He
See Fernandez, pg 12
CVCHS teams aim for Section berths in first DAL season JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
State championships Nov. 26Dec. 3.
GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Clayton Valley went to NCS quarterfinals last year by winning a playoff with Northgate for the automatic section berth after tying for the DVAL title with the Broncos at 11-1. Second-year head coach Sebastian Sheehan’s team has won its first three DAL matches. DAL has Tuesday and Thursday games through the end of October. The NCS playoffs run Nov. 2-12. The Northern California playoffs are Nov. 16-22 with the CIF
CROSS COUNTRY Clayton Valley Charter head coach Anthony Munch was pleased with the results of the first of two DAL center meets last week. All six Eagles teams (varsity, JV and froshsoph boys and girls) were undefeated in matchups with Foothill Conference schools. Junior Dylan White finished third overall among all DAL boys with John Perez eighth, Michael Cox 20th and Branden Bizicki 21st. The other CVCHS runners were Matt Hyland, Nick Harrison, Paris Ruiz and Floyd McCluhan. Overall, the Eagles only lost head-to-head matchups with Valley Conference teams Campolindo and Las Lomas. The Eagles boys were third at NCS DII and made it to State for first time in 13 years. Kelly Osterkamp took 10th with teammates Serena Con-
Play is well underway in the new Diablo Athletic League Fall sports with North Coast Section competition actually beginning this month in golf. The new DAL setup placed its 12 schools in separate Valley and Foothill conferences for each sport. The Valley Conference contains the top-ranked teams based on results from the past two years for the schools that previously were in the Diablo Valley and Diablo Foothill athletic leagues. Clayton Valley Charter High School teams in the fall sports other than football are all in Foothill Conference and Eagles coaches have expectations of strong league showings. The winner of each DAL conference earns an automatic North Coast Section post-season berth.
GIRLS TENNIS Clayton Valley Charter has gotten off to a strong start in DAL with victories over Concord, Berean Christian and Ygnacio Valley. The coaches look at Alhambra of Martinez as their strongest league foe. League matches are on Tuesdays and Thursdays through Oct. 25. The DAL tournament is Oct. 27-29 with NCS team and singles-doubles competitions in November.
Jason Rogers photo
SOPHOMORE ALAYSIA MITCHELL RETURNS SERVE FOR THE CVCHS VOLLEYBALL TEAM last week against Concord in their DAL rivalry matchup. Clayton Valley Charter players Erika Scheafer (10), Madison Downs (12), libero Coco Alvarez (33) and Kylie Caton (14) are ready for a Minuteman return.
nel, Cassie Bizicki, Sarah Verderame, Natalie Ruzicka and Jessica Hevener were all in the top 40 on the girls side. DAL has its second Wednesday center meet for all 12 teams on Oct. 26 at Newhall Park in Concord. The league championship meet is at Hidden Valley Park in Martinez on Saturday, Nov. 5, with the NCS Meet of
Jason Rogers photos
SENIORS DALIA ANWAR (LEFT) AND MEGAN BRYS are key returning members of the Clayton Valley Charter girls tennis team that has started out with three straight wins in Diablo Athletic League. They are a contender for first place in the new DAL Foothill Conference which would give the Eagles an automatic north Coast Section playoffs.
Champions Nov. 19 and the Carrigan expects her Eagles along with Concord and Colstate meet a week later. lege Park are strong conWATER POLO tenders for NCS berths. Clayton Valley Charter girls Because there are eight water polo has a very busy with teams in the Foothill Confermonth with tournaments Oct. ence league matches began in 14-15 (Western States) and mid-September and continue Oct. 28-29 (Vintage) in addi- through a single-round of tion weekly Wednesday match- games ending Oct. 26. The es all month. Coach Kelsey NCS tournament is Nov. 2-12.
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Sports
Mt. Diablo High School announces Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2016 Three athletes, one coach and a championship basketball team spanning four decades from the 1950s to the 1980s are being inducted into the Mt. Diablo High School Sports Hall of Fame at an induction dinner Nov. 5. This year’s recipients are athletes Joe DeRosa (Class of 1971), Oscar “Bud” Peebles (Class of ‘59) and Howard Silva (Class of ‘69), coach Darrell Leckliter (1961-83) and the 1957-58 boys basketball team. DeRosa, part of a longtime Concord family, was a three-year starter in football and two years in basketball. He was selected to play in the Contra Costa-Alameda and North-South Shrine all-star football games after his senior season with lineman teammate Pat Micco. The duo went on to be starters at Cal for the legendary Golden Bears team led by quarterback Joe Roth and running-
the Northern California meet. Coach Charlie Karp’s 1958 team won the school’s first basketball title in eight years and reached the second round of the Tournament of Champions in Berkeley before the Red Devils lost to HOWARD BUD top-ranked McClymonds of SILVA PEEPLES Oakland. The squad finished with a 19-3 overall record. To order tickets for the back Chuck Muncie. DeRosa Saturday, Nov. 5, hall of fame dinner at Zio Fraedo’s Contialso played rugby at Cal. Silva was a two year starting quarterback for the Red Devils and three-year basketball starter. He was named to the 1960’s DVAL all-decade basketball team and was 1969 athlete of the year. Peebles was a key cog and all-league for two-time league champion MDHS baseball teams and also for the Red Devils basketball squads. Leckliter led the school to three straight league gymnastics championships from 1961-63. The ’63 team also went on to win the East Bay championship and advance to Photos courtesy MDHS
JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
nental Restaurant in Pleasant Hill contact Lou Adamo by phone (925) 212-9332 or email louadamo@gmail.com or mail a check to treasurer Larry Prosper, 3718 Hillsborough Dr., Concord 94520 by Oct. 20. Make checks payable to MDHSSHOF. Tickets are $55 per person. Proceeds go to help fund girls’ and boys’ academic and athletic programs at the school.DH
October 7, 2016
Fernandez, from page 11
made an impact on everybody who watched him play baseball, whether they were a fan of his or not. Jose made it seem like you knew him, like you were his best friend, even though you never said a single word to him. Jose was a pure inspiration. He played his passion- the game of baseball- with such joy and delight. He was always smiling and laughing and jumping up and down. Jose accomplished the extremely rare feat of getting to do what you love for a living. Ever since I’ve been little, all my coaches have told me the same thing, “Play every game as if it will be your last.” Jose did that. He pitched as if he was never going to pitch again. Jose
Fernandez loved what he did and he never took that for granted. That’s what we need to remember him by. That’s how we need to live our lives. The death of Jose Fernandez is a tragedy. The ceremony by his team just 36 hours later was moving. The home run by Dee Gordon was uplifting. The postgame circle was tearjerking. The hat pile in his honor was unforgettable. If you did not watch all of this stuff, please do, it’s worth it. It was all a reminder of one thing. Life is short and death is unexpected. We must treasure the time we have with our loved ones, with our friends and family. Please never forget that. R.I.P. Jose Fernandez.
MDSA Velocity defense stands tall at Palo Alto Tall Trees Tournament
Photo courtesy MDSA
Tryouts for the Blaze 2017 basketball teams are coming up in Clayton! • 2nd-8th graders on December 11th, 2016 • 9th-12th graders on March 4th, 2017
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MDSA 03 VELOCITY UNDER 14 GIRLS TEAM held four teams without a goal as they won the Palo Alto Tall Trees Tournament at the end of September. Velocity defeated Pacific FC Eclipse of Lodi 1-0 and Palo Alto Voltage 2-0 and drew with Palo Alto SC 04 White 0-0 to earn a berth in the championship game. They met Granite Bay FC Lions 03 in the finals and maintained their scoreless defensive record in a 3-0 win. Velocity includes, front row from left, Makeez Sekander, Daniela Ramirez, Alyssa Birder, Miya Quesada, Sydney Francis, Lauren Fong, nicole Ramirez, Emma Ramirez; back row, coach Kim Apana, Kate Concepcion, Abby Bennett, Lauren Luedtke, Megan Dickert, Lindsey Tellefsen, Kaya Twal, olivia yoshii, Kendall Albert and coach Ted Tellefsen.
Football, from page 10
DIII titles this decade (2011-14- they have been severely tested 15) to go with one in 1986. Clay- in their last three games. ton Valley and Campolindo have The Spartans lost at home never met in football. last month 23-21 to East, a Utah power and defending 4A state DE LA SALLE (4-1) TESTED champs. De La Salle had last lost THIS SEASON a home game in 2008 by an idenDe La Salle entered the sea- tical score 23-21 to New Jersey son with the label of a very power Don Bosco Prep. inexperienced team after 32 After that loss they reboundseniors graduated from the ed before a sold out Owen State champions and of the 27 Owens Field crowd and national juniors on this year’s DLS ros- TV audience to hold down ter only six played varsity last National No. 1 recruit Najee year. Seven sophomores are Harris and Antioch 28-21 two currently starting for DLS and weeks ago, keeping alive the
Sports Shorts
MDSA HOLDING SELECT TRYOUTS NEXT TWO SUNDAYS
Spartans winning streak against Northern California teams that dates back to 1991 when another East County team, Pittsburg, beat them in the NCS championship game. In their last three games DLS has won by one and seven points and lost by two, an unprecedented three-game stretch of close games. De La Salle has shown that some experts calling this version of the legendary school’s football program not at the highest level may be accurate. The Spartans have needed Kairee Robinson’s rushing exploits and some defensive stands tow carve out
their most recent two wins over Antioch and 28-27 to Servite in Anaheim. The Spartans play an independent schedule so they meet all East Bay teams the rest of the way against San Ramon Valley, Foothill, California, James Logan and Monte Vista. In the latest NCS post-season projections DLS is No.1 and Monte Vista No. 3 so that season-ending game will be one to watch. The team is famous for peaking at the end of the season and coach Justin Alumbaugh is hoping that will be the case again this fall.
utive Saturdays, Oct. 15-22-29, and concludes on Sunday, Oct. 30, wrapping up the fall rec season for under 10, U12 and U14 teams in local AYSO Region 223. For complete World Cup schedule and more information visit mdsoccer.org. The annual Area 2C Cup Tournament will take place Nov. 12-13 with top finishing teams from the World Cup competing.
Players on MDSA fall league teams are invited to try out for Select teams that will play this winter. Tryouts will be held at CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME Boatwright Field 3 in Concord on Sundays, Oct. 9 and Oct. 16. NOMINATIONS CLOSE OCT. 15 Check mdsocce.org for specific times for under 10, U12 and Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame will U14 boys and girls teams. Players are encouraged to bring water induct its fifth class on Friday, May 19, 2017 at the Shadeand a soccer ball to tryouts. lands Art Center in Walnut Creek. The Hall of Fame committee is seeking nominees for that 2017 induction class. NomiQUILT OF HONOR BOCCE TOURNAMENT nees must be a CVHS grad from 1959-2006 and was allOCT. 15 HONORS LOCAL VETS league in at least one sport. Nomination forms can be picked Quilts of Honor, an all-volunteer charity, will hold a bocce up at the high school office during business hours. Contact ball tournament fundraiser and award handmade quilts to several Herc Pardi by email at herc_pardi@hotmail.com or Dee Billocal veterans at the Ipsen Family Bocce Park in Clayton. QOH leter at deebilleter@yahoo.com with any questions. The commitis made up of quilters and their supporters who selflessly give tee will accept completed forms until next Saturday, Oct. 15. thousands of hours of their time and effort to create and bestow beautiful quilts. The tournament will begin with the pres- REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES entation of colors by VFW Post 1525 and QOH will recognize FALL PROGRAMS and award more than a dozen quilts to local vets. The tournaWinter programs including basketball offered by All Out ment will begin at noon. No prior experience playing bocce is Sports Leagues in Clayton are taking registration now online. necessary. There is room for 16 teams of 4-6 players per team. Tryouts for Blaze AAU boys and girls basketball will be held A raffle and silent auction will also be held. In addition to the Sunday, Dec. 11, for grades 2-8. For complete information on players, families and friends are encouraged to attend. Cost is All Out Sports programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com. $200 per team of 4-6 players and includes continental breakfast. Entry forms and tournament info are posted at DIABLO FC SOCCER TRYOUTS, ACADEMY claytonbocce.org. For more info contact Ed Hartley (925) 698COMING UP THIS WINTER 4191 (league@claytonbocce.org) or Gail Belmont at (209) 608Diablo FC will be holding tryouts for its 2017 teams starting 0890 (gail@quiltsofhonor.org). in January. The under 9-U13 competitive team tryouts will be in January and February while the U14 and older team tryouts will 8TH ANNUAL MDSA WORLD CUP be in May after spring league games conclude. Visit diablofc.org KICKS OFF NEXT WEEKEND to get more information and signup for Winter Academy clinics The eighth annual MDSA World Cup runs on three consec- and tryouts.
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Pets
ELEnA BICKER
ARF NOTES
As the season changes and the frost of winter slowly creeps in, it’s time to think of how to “winterize” our pets. It’s just as important to shield pets from cold weather as it is to protect them from hot weather – even during mild California winters. The best strategy is to keep pets indoors during inclement weather. When you do venture outdoors, keep dogs on-leash.
Winter is coming...
Snow and rain can wipe away familiar scents, causing a dog to become lost or disoriented. A fur coat isn’t enough protection from the cold, especially if the pet is short-coated, a puppy or a senior. Your pet might be more comfortable in winter-wear, like a sweater, jacket or booties. Look for coats or sweaters that cover from neck to tail and aren’t restrictive or uncomfortable. When indoors, be sure pets have a warm, draft-free spot to rest in with lots of soft, cozy bedding. Wrapping a pet in an electric blanket all day might sound like a good idea, but leaving an animal alone with an electric item is a recipe for dis-
aster. Warming pads, like SnuggleSafe, can be heated in the microwave and stay warm for 12 hours. When it’s cold or rainy, pets may resist going to the bathroom outside. Work with her to keep her comfortable. A jacket or rain slicker might help, or hold an umbrella over her to keep her dry. Chilly kitties will look for any warm place to curl up outside, including under the hoods of cars – where they run the risk of serious injury. Bang loudly on the hood of your car before entering. Any slumbering felines will be frightened by the noise and escape before you start the car.
Copper and Gabriel are this month’s ARF Stars
COPPER
Six-year-old Copper is a fluffy darling with lovely manners and an engaging personality. He is very social and would love to accompany you on neighborhood walks, on errands, or to the café. Copper has a positive history with other dogs. The adoption fee for dogs is $250 and includes a discount on the first six-week session of a manners class.
ish charm. He’s a friendly fellow, but his favorite activity right now is playing with his toys. He’ll amuse his new family for hours with his antics. It would be even more fun for him if he was adopted with one of his littermates. He is suitable for a first time cat guardian. Gabriel’s adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor. The adoption fee for kittens less than 6 months $125. Ten-week-old Gabriel is a Meet your forever friend at little delight and full of kitten- Tony La Russa’s Animal Res-
Mayor, from page 4
Clayton Valley Village, a group dedicated to helping seniors stay in their homes, will be hosting a fundraiser and “meet and greet” at La Veranda Restaurante on Oct. 23. Call 925-524-0011 for reservations and time. The Clayton Library’s Used Book Sale will be Oct. 25-26. Here are some interesting bits of Clayton history: Clayton City Hall: The De Martini Winery, which produced more than 200,000 gallons of wine per year at its peak, was retrofitted and converted to our current City Hall in August 1997. There were 1,600 acres of grapevines in
Page 13
Clayton at its height. Grapes were loaded on the top floor and moved to the lower floors as they were processed. The building was built into the hillside for natural cooling. Clayton stopped producing grapes in the 1920s due to Prohibition and a rootstock disease. Most grapes in California have been replaced with a rootstock that is resistant to the disease. The country of Chile still has the original Clayton Valley rootstock. Many of the stones in the winery came from the John Marsh Quarry. A sister winery was also built and is still located at the Easley Estate. Easley
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Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arflife.org, or call (925) 2561ARF.
used it for many years as a 7Up warehouse. Clayton’s First School: In 1863, there was a two-room school on the site of Mt. Diablo Elementary School. The original school bell sits in the school district’s office. Children had to cross a rickety old bridge over the creek to get to school. The school had heavy sliding doors between the two classrooms. Each room had a wood-burning stove for warmth. Grades 1-8 were taught, and the highest enrollment was 111 students in 1899. Only 13 were enrolled when the school closed in 1947. Endeavor Hall: Because the different Clayton congregations did not have the
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Never leave a pet unattended in a car on a cold day. The winter weather turns a car into a rolling refrigerator. If it’s cold outside, leave animals warm and safe at home. When coming in from a winter walk or play session, dry pets off thoroughly and take extra care to wipe legs, paws and stomach. Pets living in or visiting snowy climates can pick up salt, antifreeze or other dangerous chemicals on their pads, making them sick if they lick them. Pets should not be kept outside during the winter. However, if you absolutely must leave them outdoors for a limited amount of time, create a shelter that is dry, clean and well-insulated as well as protecting them from the wind and elements. Check water bowls to ensure they have plenty of fresh (not frozen) water. Animals with fragile immune systems – kittens, puppies and senior pets – might be more susceptible to illness during this time. If you suspect an animal has a cold weather-related illness, take them to see the vet right away. Elena Bicker is the Executive Director of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at 925.2561ARF (1273)
Please let our advertisers know you saw them in the Clayton Pioneer resources to independently build a church, Endeavor Hall was built in 1863 and served as a meeting place for several denominations and for community get-togethers. City meetings and elections were held in this building until 1995. The building was restored as a National Landmark and is currently rented to many of Clayton’s non-profits. It’s ideal for weddings, anniversaries and birthdays and is also home to Clayton Theatre Company. There is a full commercial kitchen, a large main room and an outside garden/patio area. Contact Jessica at City Hall at 673.7300 for rental availability. As always, e-mail questions or thoughts to hgeller@ci.clayton.ca.us.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Good ol’ Charlie Brown comes to Clayton
Performing Arts
SALLy HoGARTy
STAGE STRUCK
Come and enjoy an ordinary day in the life of a not-soordinary kid and his super special dog when Clayton Theatre Company presents “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” This wonderful family musical runs Oct. 13-19 at
October 7, 2016
Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Roxanne Pardi directs, with LaTonya Watts as assistant director. James Bradley Jr. plays everyone’s best friend Charlie Brown, with Gretchen Lee Salter as his sister Sally, Jennifer Katzer as Lucy, Alan McElroy as Schroeder, Jason Knott as Linus and Jeffie Givens as Snoopy. The talented ensemble includes Kailah Cayou, Kaylie Cooper, Jennifer Greenfield and Tevin Whack. For tickets and more information, visit claytontheatrecompany.com or brownpapertickets.com.
Alessandra Mello
LIZ SKLAR AS DESDEMONA AND ALDO BILLINGSLEA AS OTHELLO in California Shakespeare Theater’s production of oTHELLo, directed by Eric Ting
There is still time to catch a couple of shows closing this weekend. Center Repertory’s hilarious musical “It Should Have Been You” ends Oct. 8 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. In this wedding disaster, the bride and groom’s families clash on everything. And then the bride’s ex-boyfriend brings the wedding to a screeching halt. Hysterical chaos ensues as plots are hatched, promises broken and secrets exposed. Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Shakespeare’s most famous Moor “Othello” continues through Oct. 9 at the Bruns Amphitheater in Orinda, 100 California Shakespeare Theater Way. Eric Ting directs a gripping and provocative interpretation of the show, which focuses on the Bard’s words rather than elaborate costumes and sets. To make Shakespeare’s 400year-old work resonate with today’s audiences, Ting inserted short interludes that add historical information, contemporary racial jokes or other information to confront the audience’s assumptions and biases. Most of the time these are very effective. A superb cast, headed by Aldo Billingslea as Othello and Liz Sklar as Desdemona, will keep you captivated throughout. Call 510-548-9666 or go to www.calshakes.org. Just in time for the elections, Contra Costa Musical Theatre (CCMT) takes us
Photo courtesy Clayton Theatre Company
CLAYTON THEATRE COMPANY opens it’s 2016-’17 season with the family friendly musical, “you’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” at Endeavor Hall in Clayton oct. 13-19.
back in time to when the likes of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and an upstart named Benjamin Franklin were forging the country’s declaration of independence from the British Empire. “This is not only one of the great American musicals, it couldn’t be any timelier than it is right now,” says CCMT general manager Danny Boyle. The musical “1776” runs through Nov. 5 at the Lesher Center for the Arts. Scott Fryer directs, with Heidi Dahms as musical director. For tickets, call 925-943SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org.
For younger theater lovers, Fantasy Forum presents “The Princess and the Pauper” Oct. 13-15 at the Lesher Center for the Arts. The audience always plays an important part in Fantasy Forum productions, with some lucky young people even sitting on the stage. Come and help figure out just who is the princess and who is the pauper. Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org. Pittsburg Community Theatre is busy amassing sailor uniforms for its Nov. 1113 production of “Mister Roberts.” Alice Lustre directs this
rowdy saga of a group of bored American sailors stationed on a Navy cargo vessel in the Pacific. The one thing the crew and their popular officer Mr. Roberts have in common is a dislike of their smallminded skipper. The show performs at the California Theatre. For more information, go to www.pittsburgcommunitytheatre.org. Sally Hogarty is well known around the Bay Area as a newspaper columnist, theatre critic and working actress. She is also the editor of the Orinda News. Send comments to sallyhogarty@gmail.com
Diablo Ballet kicks off the season with ‘A Swingin’ Holiday and More’ The holidays begin in style as Diablo Ballet opens its season with “A Swingin’ Holiday and More,” Nov. 11-13 at the Del Valle Theatre in Walnut Creek. Sean Kelly created the annual production in 2012. Set to the exhilarating music of the ’30s and ’40s, the show features holiday tunes by Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Nat King Cole and Wynton Marsalis, as well as jazzy renditions of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker Suite” performed by the 16-piece Diablo Ballet Swing Orchestra. The program includes Diablo Ballet’s premiere of Lew Christensen’s classical “Airs de Ballet,” which was created in 1971 for the San Francisco Ballet. Set to ballet music from
Andre Gretry’s opera “Zemire et Azor,” “Airs de Ballet” is staged by former San Francisco Ballet soloist Leslie Young and rehearsed by Diablo Ballet’s regisseur, Joanna Berman. “I am extremely honored that Diablo Ballet has been given permission to perform this very special ballet, and I am excited to share it with our audiences,” says Lauren Jonas, artistic director and cofounder. “Happy Ending,” by resident choreographer Robert Dekkers, is set to the popular music of Pogo. This high-spirited, humorous work displays the versatile personalities of Diablo Ballet’s dancers. Following each performance, ticket holders are invited to meet and mingle with the
costumed dancers at a postperformance reception.
For tickets, call 925-943SHOW or please visit www.lesherartscenter.org or www.diabloballet.org.
Photo by: Bérenger zyla
Jackie McConnell and Jamar Goodman in “A Swingin’ Holiday,’ at the Del Valle Theater nov. 11-13.
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Page 15
Clayton Community Calendar
PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. OCT. 26 FOR THE NOV. 4 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com
IN CLAYTON
Oct. 8 Historical Monument Dedication
The Clayton Historical Society is dedicating the Keller Ranch House historical monument. 4 p.m. Near bridge behind Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road. claytonhistory.org.
Oct. 13 - 29 “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”
Presented by Clayton Theatre Company. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. $20-$25. claytontheatrecompany.com.
Oct. 29 Halloween Spooktacular Party
Refreshments, ghost stories, music, costume contest. Hosted by Diamond Terrace and Clayton Historical Society. 6 p.m. 6401 Center St., Clayton. Free. For more information, email reneewing@sbcglobal.net.
Mondays Off the Grid
IN CONCORD
Rotating lineup of food trucks. 5 – 9 p.m. 2151 Salvio Street. offthegridsf.com.
Tuesdays Farmers’ Market
Tuesdays year round, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
Thursdays thru Oct. 27 Farmers’ Market
Market 4 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.
3rd Sundays thru Oct. 16 Antique Faire
Antiques, collectibles, handmade arts and crafts. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free admission. concordantiquefaire.com.
Oct. 15 Concord Museum and Event Center
Docent-led walk through of restoration progress on former Masonic Temple. 1, 2 and 3 p.m. 1928 Clayton Road, Concord. Free; donations requested. concordhistorical.org.
Oct. 15 Orchid Show and Sale
Ribbon judging, sale of orchids and supplies, workshops, repotting service, raffle. Presented by Diablo View Orchid Society. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Willow Pass Recreation Center, 2748 E. Olivera Road, Concord. $5. dvos.org.
Oct. 15 – 16 Icing with the Stars
Contra Costa Cake and Sugar Art Society’s annual show. Open to anyone interested in entering or attending. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. First Lutheran Church, 4000 Concord Blvd., Concord. $5; $8 both days. contracostacakeshow.com.
ON AND AROUND THE MOUNTAIN
Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve programs are available for registration through ebparks.org. Parking fees may apply. For additional information, contact Black Diamond Visitor Center at (510) 544-2750 or bdvisit@ebparks.org.
Thru November Hazel-Atlas Mine Tours
Learn about the mining history and geology at Black Diamond Mines. Guided, 90-minute tour; Saturdays and Sundays. Must be age 7 or older with parent. $5. For reservation and ticket information, go to ebparks.org.
Oct. 16 In Search of the Nortonville Ghost
Find out who or what terrified miners in the 1870s. 4 - 6:30 p.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines Upper Parking Lot.
Nov. 6 Mid-Autumn Hike
Invigorating, five-mile ramble. 2 – 5:30 p.m. Meet at Morgan Territory Road Staging Area.
Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Event Calendar for more information.
Oct. 16 The California Tarantula
Meet and hold a tarantula while you learn about the life cycle of these harmless and fascinating creatures. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summit Museum.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Oct. 7 – 30 “The Fantasticks”
A timeless, romantic tale of a boy, a girl and their fathers’ schemes to get the two married. Presented by OMG, I Love That Show! Productions. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $39. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Oct. 7 – Nov. 5 “1776”
The most fascinating leaders in American history come to life in a musical about the birth of a nation. Performed by the Contra Costa Musical Theatre. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $50-$55. ccmt.org.
Oct. 8 “Elect to Laugh”
Political comedy for people who don’t like politics with Will Durst. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Oct. 9 “Fireworks and Fantasy”
Presented by the Diablo Symphony Orchestra. 2 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $35. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Oct. 9 “Harana: A Cultural Journey”
A showcase of the Philippine evolution of music through songs, movement and drama. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $25-$50. lesherartscenter.org. 9437469.
Oct. 13 – 15 “The Princess and the Pauper”
The audience plays an important part in this real life shell game. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Oct. 14 Comedy
Friday night live from the Pitt Stop hosted by comedian Mario Hodge. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Oct. 15 “The Wonder of Elvis – The Tribute”
Exciting, one-man show starring Rob Ely. 3 and 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $45. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Oct. 21 – Nov. 19 “Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery”
Comedic genius Ken Ludwig transforms the classic into a murderously funny adventure. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $33-$60. centerrep.org.
Oct. 28, 30 “Peter Pan”
Presented by El Campanil Children’s Theatre. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $8-$12. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Nov. 4 “A Salute to The Eagles”
Performed by Hotel California. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Nov. 6 “Above and Beyond”
Presented by Contra Costa Wind Symphony. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
FUNDRAISERS
2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast
Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org.
Oct. 8 Afternoon Tea Party
Sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1525 Auxiliary. 2 – 4 p.m. Oak Park Christian Center, 2073 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. $25. Email vfwaux1525@gmail.com for tickets and additional information.
Oct. 14 Fall Festival
Games, activities, haunted house, food. Sponsored by the Mt. Diablo Elementary Parent Faculty Club. 4 – 8 p.m. MDES, 5880 Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton. Free admission; tickets sold at event. For more information, email stacysummers79@gmail.com.
Oct. 15 Craft Fair/Oktoberfest
Handmade crafts, family fun, raffle. Proceeds benefit Dana Estates Neighborhood Alliance. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Dana Plaza, 4115 Concord Blvd., Concord. Free admission. danaestates.org.
Oct. 21 Golf Tournament
Golf, dinner, raffle, awards. Proceeds benefit St. Agnes Catholic School’s Development Fund. 10 a.m. check in. Boundary Oak Golf Course, 3800 Valley Vista Road, Walnut Creek. $175 individual; $650 foursome. For more information, call Dave Lucas at 787-8360.
Oct. 23 Native Plant Sale Extravaganza
Nov. 6 “The Trip to Bountiful”
Seven nurseries, including Markham Arboretum, help you purchase hard-to-find native plants. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Markham, 1202 La Vista Ave., Concord. bringingbackthenatives.net.
Nov. 6, 12 “Soundworlds”
Supper and silent auction. Proceeds benefit Clayton Valley Village. 5 – 9 p.m. La Veranda, 6201 Center St., Clayton. $45. Reservations only by Oct. 18. 672-3672.
Performed by The Vagabond Players. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $10-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com. Presented by Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra. 2 p.m. Nov. 6: Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10$30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Nov. 12: El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $7-$15. elcampaniltheatre.com.
Nov. 11 “La Vida de los Muertos – The Joyful Journey”
Presented by Carolina Lugo’s and Carole Acuna’s Ballet Flamenco. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $30-$40. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Nov. 11 – 13 “A Swingin’ Holiday and More”
Presented by Diablo Ballet. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $27-$47. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Nov. 11 – 13 “Mister Roberts”
Rowdy, realistic saga of American sailors aboard a Navy cargo vessel suffering from deadly boredom. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $12-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.
Nov. 12 “Rock Stars and Stripes: The American Rock Experience”
Presented by David Victor Presents. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $39-$79. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
Oct. 23 Sunday Supper
Oct. 26 “A Mysterious Author Affair”
Discussion with mystery writers Cara Black, David Corbett and Sophie Littlefield; book signings; desserts; raffle. Benefits Project Second Chance. 6 – 8 p.m. Walnut Creek Library, Oak Room, 1644 N Broadway. $20 in advance only. pscfundraising.org. 927-3250.
Nov. 4 – 5 Gala and Boutique
Friday night “Winter Wonderland,” wine, appetizers, auction, wine pull, raffle and boutique; 6 – 8 p.m. Saturday Classy Crafters Boutique and Country Kitchen continues; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Proceeds benefit Saint Bonaventure Food Pantry. Saint Bonaventure Large Hall, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. Free admission. 672-5800.
Nov.5 Silent Auction Gala
Dinner, dancing, entertainment and auction. Benefits Northgate High School Dance Department. 6 p.m. Heather Farm Community Center, 301 N. San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek. $60 per person; $100 per couple. For more information, contact Kourtnie at howertonk@mdusd.org or 938-0900, ext. 2197.
Nov. 6 Fall Fundraiser
Nov. 12 “The Everly Brothers Experience”
An afternoon of music, appetizers and desserts with Johnny Rockit and Candy Wrapper. Benefits charitable donations made by the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club. 4 – 6:30 p.m. Diamond Terrace, 6401 Center St., Clayton. $25; reservations required. Contact Aleta Huck at 672-9448.
Nov. 13 “Home Grown Talent”
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.
Presented by The Bird Dogs. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com. Featuring Evan Torres and other Bay Area artists. 7:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.
CHURCHES AND RELIGION
Oct. 15 Harvest Festival
Games, food, candy and prizes. 4 – 7 p.m. Faith Missionary Baptist Church Gym, 4266 Thompson Drive, Concord. Free admission. concordfmbc.com.
Oct. 16 Concert
Performed by jazz combo JaZ and highlighting the music of American composers. 3 p.m. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $15. cvpresby.org.
Nov. 5 Boutique and Vendor Fair
Crafts, including artwork, scarves, jewelry, holiday items; vendors. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Faith Missionary Baptist Church Gym, 4266 Thompson Drive, Concord. Free admission. concordfmbc.com.
Nov. 5 “Innocence, Love and Heartbreak”
AT THE LIBRARY
Thru Oct. 26: Guess the Weight of the Library Pumpkin Thru Nov. 16: Clayton Reads, “The Language of Flowers” Oct. 10: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m. Oct. 10, 24: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. Oct. 14 – 16: Used Book Sale, 4 – 7 p.m. Fri.; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sat.; 12 – 4 p.m. Sun. Oct. 17: Star Party with Mount Diablo Astronomical Society, 7 p.m. Oct. 24: Clayton Reads Book Discussion, 7 p.m. Oct. 26: Working with Foster Kids, 7 p.m. Nov. 10: Fantastic Fall Flowers, 4 p.m.
The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or 6465455. Oct. 10: Tarantula! 7 p.m. Oct. 13: Art Appreciation/Jose Guadalupe Posada, 6 p.m. Oct. 15: Day of the Dead Altar Building, 1 p.m. Oct. 20: Concord Book Club, 6:30 p.m. Oct. 22: Nicho Workshop, 1 p.m. Registration required. Oct. 27: Master Gardeners, 6:30 p.m. Oct. 31: Halloween Spooktacular, 6 p.m. Registration required. Nov. 5: Crafters’ Swap Meet, 12 p.m.
Concert by the singers of Chromatica. 7 p.m. Clayton Valley PresGOVERNMENT byterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $10-$20. chromaticachorale.org. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays
Oct. 14 – 16 “The Crucible”
SCHOOLS
A dramatized and partially fictionalized story of the Salem witch trials. 7 p.m. Clayton Valley Charter High School Multi-Use Room, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. $5-$10. For more information, email elizabeth.emigh@claytonvalley.org or call 682-7474, ext. 2678.
Oct. 21 – Nov. 6 “Hairspray”
Piled high with laughter, romance and deliriously tuneful songs. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. $11$21. dvcdrama.net.
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’
Schools
Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 7, 2016
Performing Arts school gets late start to inaugural term JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
When the first graduates from the Contra Costa School of Performing Arts get their diplomas in the spring of 2019 the senior class members as well as the school’s original administrators will be able to look back at their earliest times at the new public charter high school as quite an adventure. Executive director Neil McChesney has been navigating
through challenging waters during the past 15 months since his drive to start the unique charter high school was approved by the county board of education. Overcoming a legal challenge by the Mt. Diablo Unified School District, securing start-up financing and encountering real estate and permitting roadblocks were obstacles above and beyond the myriad tasks that would typically show up on a “To-Do” list for a new school. McChesney says starting a school from scratch is an
“immense and complex task.” Top of the list was finding a physical location in which to operate the School of Performing Arts. The dream of running the school on the site of the Concord Pavilion is still out there but after looking at numerous locations in the Central County the school will be in the Shadelands area of Walnut Creek for the foreseeable future. Because of permitting and construction issues this summer the leased facilities on North Wiget Lane just off Ygnacio
CVCHS Color Guard joins Marching Band on the field
COLOR GUARD MEMBERS Jenna Simpkins, Miya Adolphson, Kelsey Hill, Jasmine Purzycki, Aaron Suasin, Maxine Matthews and Mira Laiho, thematically outfitted in full pirate regalia to support the “Pirates of the Caribbean” field show.
The CVCHS Color Guard has experienced significant growth in size and skill this 2016-2017 season and performs alongside the Eagle Marching Band at all halftime field shows and competitions. The color guard is an instrumental part of the marching band field show and all Color Guard members are also accomplished musicians in their own right. The Color Guard interprets the music of the marching band through the synchronized work of flags, sabres or other props. During marching band competitions, the guard adds to the overall score of the band and is often judged in a category usually identified as “auxiliary.” For more information about the CVCHS Instrumental Music Program or to purchase tickets, go to claytonbands.org.
Valley Rd. in a two-story former business center won’t be ready until the first of the year. An organization that helps charter schools secure facilities, ACRE Education, is in the process of purchasing the buildings and will lease them to SPA. These matters meant that the opening of the charter school had to be delayed two and onehalf weeks until Aug. 29. In order to get the mandated 175 instructional days completed for 2016-17 the end of the school year, rather than coming in late May, will be the same day as MDUSD ends its year, June 9. For the first month or so the 330 students in grades six through 10 are in temporary quarters in a nearby building and will move into 10 portable classrooms on their school site this month. In a couple years when enrollment reaches 500 the school will also occupy the adjacent building. These facility issues haven’t dampened the enthusiasm for the new school, McChesney
nELLIE MEyER
MDUSD
SUPERINTENDENT
October is national Anti-Bullying Month, a campaign started 10 years ago to unite communities across the country to educate and raise awareness of bullying prevention. The Mt. Diablo Unified School District takes bullying prevention seriously as part of a priority to build a healthy, respectful and inclusive school culture and climate. We believe positive school climates promote opportunities for socialization, personal growth and character
said. “The students and families have embraced our little community.” The school has relied on grants, fund-raising and a line of credit to fund its expenses and manage cash flow. The first payment from the state will come in October. McChesney explains that public schools get approximately 37 per cent of their funding based on average daily attendance in the October payment with the rest spread out monthly through the school year.
typically have two or three days of summer workshops for staff) for its 18 teachers. Much of that time was spent integrating the performing arts into more traditional subject matter. After an intense six-month application process the new charter was chosen as one of less than 100 schools in the nation to be part of a Facebookdeveloped, cutting edge online curriculum program. The Personalized Learning Platform is provided free to the school, which is expected to “pay it forward” to its students and community. SPA students should have much lighter backpacks than their friends at other schools since the charter provided each student with a Chromebook and there are no textbooks used at SPA with the curriculum entirely provided digitally.
FIRST PRODUCTION CAST The school has already cast its first production “Metamorphoses,” a play by Mary Zimmerman that will be presented at the Pavilion. In keeping with SPA’s mission, also on tap are a holiday choral and vocal show in December, a late winter dance performance and an all-school musical in the spring. McChesney and his adminisFor a peak at the first day of trative team conducted a month- the Contra Costa School of Perlong professional development forming Arts check out a one-minute program this summer (schools video at cocospa.org/news.
MDUSD works to counter all bullying development. This creates positive impacts on student behavior, including lower absenteeism, fewer disciplinary issues, and higher academic achievement and success. Bullying occurs when one or more students threaten, harass or intimidate another student through words or actions. Cyber bullying, or online bullying, refers to bullying over electronic media. Research shows cyber bullying affects as many as one in four students That’s a frightening statistic, especially given how much cyberbullying is done anonymously. MDUSD has clear policies on bullying: Bullying BP 5131.2 and Anti-Bullying AR5145.4. We conduct anonymous surveys of
students and staff to learn about areas of concern regarding school climate or bullying. We also offer an extensive list of resources for families to review together to better understand actions that are considered bullying and how to stand up, speak up and strike back against bullying behavior. We need to remember our words and actions have power and should be used wisely. For more information, visit www.mdusd.org/cms/page_vi ew?d=x&piid=&vpid=139747 3247660.
30 years in multiple teaching and administrative leadership roles. He is viewed as an innovator and strong collaborator who is committed to building positive relationships with all stakeholders through effective and positive communication. As deputy principal and director of guidance, McMorris will be instrumental in enhancing school morale, strengthening community ties, overseeing student-centered programs and ensuring a quality academic experience for every student. Jim Stewart has been involved in education for more than 22 years. His peers consider him “a sound decision-maker, a calm, level-headed thinker and a leader with broad experience capable of handling whatever the day brings.” As director of discipline, Stewart serves as an outstanding role model for a safe, positive learning environment and promotes academic excellence for all students. He believes all students can learn but that each learns in a different way and at a different rate. Keeping the atmosphere positive is the key to his success, as well as maintaining the lines of communication among staff, students and parents. Stewart says teamwork is the ultimate
way a school can help a student attain his/her full potential. Kathleen Coakley Saunders’ passion for education runs deep. As a daughter, granddaughter and sister of educators, she has education “in the blood.” The Clayton Valley High School alumni and former teacher has a deep understanding of and commitment to the school community. Her 23 years of professional experience associated with teaching and designing curriculum at the elementary, secondary and college levels provides Saunders with a comprehensive perspective and understanding of the education system. As director of professional development, she brings this extensive proficiency to meet the needs of students and educators in a creative, innovative way. I am proud of the new team and returning staff who are committed to supporting Patrick Gaffney’s direction to enhance the unique school culture as well as heighten academic expectations for all students. Strong leadership is the key to Clayton Valley’s success and drives us forward on the road to greatness. David Linzey is executive director of CVCHS. Contact him David.linzey@claytonvalley.org
Dr. Nellie Meyer is Superintendent of Schools for MDUSD. Email questions or comments to meyern@mdusd.org
Leadership, experience keys to success at CVCHS
DAVID LInzEy VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE
We’re off to a great start for the 2016-17 academic school year, and I’m excited to welcome back the committed staff as well as the new leadership now assembled at Clayton Valley Charter High School. Bob Ralston is a rare talent in the world of education, with 23 years as a teacher/baseball coach at the high school, community college and NCAA level. He has a passion for helping young people make the transition from high school to college and brings a wealth of knowledge about educating high school and collegiate students. These skills will translate into his new role of academic advisor to the freshman, with a focus on reaching at-risk students and turning them around. John McMorris is a dynamic instructional leader with nearly
October 7, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 17
Commended Students in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program
Photo courtesy of CVCHS
2017 national Merit Scholarship Commended Students Victoria Klock, natasha Risser, Cailin o’Toole, Seth Walton and Sarah Condon with CVCHS Principal Patrick Gaffney.
Patrick Gaffney, Principal at Clayton Valley Charter High School announced that Sarah Condon, Victoria Klock, Cailin O’Toole, Natasha Risser and Seth Walton have been named Commended Students in the
LAuRA MCFARLAnD TEEN SPEAK Three weeks ago, Brock Turner was released from Santa Clara County jail after a three-month stay. The 27-yearold in the infamous Stanford University rape case only served half of his six-month sentence after being charged with three counts of sexual assault. Turner sexually assaulted an unconscious 22-year-old woman behind a dumpster at a college party. After being reported by two witnesses, Turner faced trial and a maximum sentence of 14 years. In the United States, the average prison time for rape is 8-9 years. The prosecution sug-
2017 National Merit Scholarship Program. A Letter of Commendation from the school and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), which conducts the program, will be presented to
these scholastically talented seniors. About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2017
gested six years, yet Brock received six months. And then he was released early for “good behavior.” The lack of punishment for violating a woman’s body is a mockery of both the victim and the crime. The injustice of this situation infuriates me. I’m constantly reminded of the statistic that one in five women are raped or sexually assaulted in their college years. The judge remarked that Turner’s light sentence was because anything more would have a “severe impact” on the young man. What about the impact on the victim, on both her mental and physical health? What about her scars, a daily reminder that her body and her dignity were violated? This case is not only about a woman being raped behind a dumpster. This is about the continuous denial of justice for sexual assault victims. The
three months Turner served are a symbol of something larger: the notion that men deserve priority over women. Turner was in jail for 90 days. I wonder if that is enough time to realize that sexual assault is wrong under any circumstance. Or if it’s enough time for the victim to heal, to feel safe outside her house again, to be able to live her life without the constant reminder of her assault. Brock was punished for his actions, but the sentence was a joke – and he only served half of it. No one should get away with sexually assaulting a woman, because it sends the message that the U.S. justice system does not take rape seriously. The punishment was a joke, but the crime is the furthest thing from funny. As a young woman in a world that still faces inequality
competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.6 million students who entered the 2017 competition by taking the 2015 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). “The young men and women being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” commented NMSC. “These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation. We hope that this recognition will help broaden their educational opportunities and encourage them as they continue their pursuit of academic success.”
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between the sexes, I am disappointed and angry that Turner walks free after three months in jail. However, I am hopeful that if enough people share this outrage, maybe something will finally be done. McFarland is a senior at Carondelet High School and a member of the cross country team. Send comments and questions to editor@claytonpioneer.com
Students speak out at board meeting A few of Clayton Valley Charter High School’s students are transforming what it means to be an involved student, not only by participating in a multitude of programs but by voicing their opinions to make the school the best it can be. CVCHS seniors Alissa Guevara, Cameron Martin and Yennifer Molina have decided that they want their opinions to be heard, and they are ready to make an impact on their school. The trio attended a governing board meeting on Sept. 14. The meeting had been widely advertised as being open to all students who wanted to speak about the resignation of principal Jeff Eben. All three students decided to voice concerns because they believe the condition of Clayton Valley as a workplace and school is being jeopardized. They wanted to raise awareness and said they had the students’ best interests at heart. Guevara has been involved with Model UN, Feminist Club, Academic Decathlon and Multicultural club. She also played volleyball for three years. Martin is the ASB Leadership president and was the class president in both his
sophomore and junior years. In addition, he is the California Scholarship Federation (CSF) vice president and has participated in CSF throughout high school as well as the Interact club and the Black Student Union. He was in the Medical Academy for two years and played both lacrosse and volleyball for two years. “I felt nervous because I was surrounded by people I know and interact with at school very often,” Martin recalls of the meeting. “I didn’t want what I had to say to affect any of my relationships or future interactions with staff members. But I was also excited to voice my concerns.” Molina is the current senior class president. She is involved in the STEM club, CSF, Model UN and Multicultural club, among others. She played water polo for two years and is in the Engineering Academy. When the three students grew unhappy with changes the school was making, they spoke up. This was a new experience for all of them, and while they were nervous, they were also confident in their public speaking abilities. One board member criti-
SyDnEy SKoW
CVCHS
CORRESPONDENT
cized them after the meeting, calling the CVCHS Leadership class “rude” based on Martin’s and Molina’s behavior at the meeting. The board member complained about how disrespectful the students had been on Facebook. They were also criticized for their lack of positive things to say about the school. However, fellow students applauded them, after retweeting and sharing videos taken of the students’ speeches that were posted on Twitter. The student body also began having more conversations about Eben’s resignation. “Although the tension in the school has decreased,” says Molina, “the thought of who will leave next remains in the minds of students.” Sydney Skow is a sophomore at CVCHS. Email her at sydneyaskow@icloud.com.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Holiday Gift Faire Sunday, November 13, 2016 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. CVCHS Large Gym
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also declared that suede skirts doesn’t mean you should are the “falling star” of this stop wearing them. season, aka the fad that has • Bralettes. I’m going to go reached its peak and already out on a limb here and say started to decline rapidly. How that bralettes will never go sad. out of fashion again. After all, they’re comfortable. If Here are the top trends for you don’t know what a fall, according to Google: bralette looks like, Google it. • Off-the-shoulder tops. • Dashiki dress. These From December 2015 to dresses are growing in popuMay 2016, “off-the-shoullarity in both the UK and der” searches increased by the U.S., making them a 347 percent in the United popular go-to as fall States. One of the most approaches. Again, if you’re popular searches was how to not sure about this trend, wear off-the-shoulder tops Google is a great resource. and chokers. • Bomber jackets. Searches • Bodysuits. You don’t need for bomber jackets went up to give these up for fall, as 612 percent in the United they are continuing through States in 2016. Black was the the season. No. 1 color, followed closely • Lace-up tops. This trend is by pink. still popular here but is • Boho dress. While there are dropping in popularity in no specific parameters as to the UK. That could be a what defines a boho dress, warning sign that it might you know it when you see it soon be on the decline in the – even if Google only United States. However, that knows it because the brand
Ripped jeans
has labeled it as such. • Ripped jeans. These are in it for the long haul, according to Google. Searches for ripped jeans have been increasing at a stable rate over the past couple years, making them a safe bet for a fall wardrobe. • Biker pants. Like ripped jeans, biker pants have slowly been growing in popularity over the years – making them a solid purchase. (Sounds like something a financial advisor would say.) You might not like these trends, and some trends might not look good on you. That’s where I come in. Let me help with wardrobe needs for you and your significant other. I am a personal stylist for both men and women.
Susan Sappington is the Area Development Manager and Wardrobe Consultant for ETCETERA Clothing of New York. Send comments to susan@etcstyles.com.
Drought-tolerant California fuchsia brightens fall landscapes
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Financial Professional Associate
October 7, 2016
nICoLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
Once the summer began to heat up, garden lovers noticed an unfamiliar, shrubby groundcover adorning some local drought-tolerant landscapes. The flowers seemed to appear almost overnight. Orange-red, tubularshaped blossoms were covering this unknown pile of fuzzy gray foliage. Folks found their way into the nursery to have this plant identified. California fuchsia has actually been available for decades, but it has suddenly become noticed by the masses. California fuchsia is found in nurseries and garden centers under two names, Zauschneria and Epilobium. Names occasionally get changed in the plant world, and this is the case with the California fuchsia. Various selections of shrub-like groundcover can reach 1-2 feet tall and more than 3 feet wide. During spring, the fuchsia is a simple pile of gray-blue leaves. Depending on the cultivar, these leaves may appear
smooth or have a slight pile. When some dry gardens are shy of flowers AugustOctober, the California fuchsia comes to life. Brilliant orange to deep red, tubularshaped flowers explode into bloom. These flowers are intoxicating to hummingbirds, who cannot resist the color or its perfect shape. Evert’s Choice is the most popular selection this season. Other options available are Wayne’s Silver, which has a stunning, metallic-gray leaf, and Canum, which looks more like a shrublet. The California fuchsia will thrive in any ClaytonConcord dryscape. It welcomes the full, relentless sun and heat. Consider planting on a hillside. It requires good drainage and isn’t picky about rocky soil. The fuchsia would make a nice companion groundcover to the springblooming Ceanothus. Another great application is in a mass planting along a bed or border. Imagine a hedge of purple-flowering Salvia Leucantha with an under-planting of fuchsia. The orange and purple flowers would dramatically contrast, creating a late summerautumn feast for the eyes. Or install California fuchsia along a rock garden or dry creek bed. This plant is so
The burst of color from California fuchsia adds a bounty of autumn interest to the Holmes-Turner’s Clayton landscape.
hardy that growing along stone will not be a problem. The groundcover is also deer-tolerant, which is great for landscapes that butt up to open space. Establishing California fuchsia can be challenging, and overwatering can be a problem. Signs of overwatering include wilty leaves. Many will naturally water more when they spot wilty leaves, so please be wary. When in doubt, use a moisture meter. California fuchsia is perennial, which means they enjoy a season of rest. Dur-
ing fall, you’ll notice the plants changing color as they get ready to go dormant. Leave them alone through winter. In the early days of spring, cut away last year’s growth in preparation for fresh, new growth. This plant is an exciting landscape addition that you’ll be thrilled to grow.
class. Linzey said, “The meeting with student leaders went very well. CVCHS has some of the brightest students anywhere. They show incredible love for their school as well as support and respect for the staff and administration. We are fortunate to have such great kids at CVCHS.” The board meeting concluded with a financial report on the unaudited final 2015-16
fiscal year budget that shows an $11.8 million surplus moving into the 2016-17 school year. This includes a $3.6 surplus from the recent school year, primarily due to $2.1 million that was budgeted for but not yet used to install new turf fields on campus. That project has been delayed for over a year while the school and district litigate other issues.
Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. You can contact her with questions or comments by email at Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com
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as well as over 50 other staff and faculty members in the past three years. Student body president Cameron Martin said that, although the school’s test scores are good and the campus is clean, the students want to be informed [about changes at the school]. “We’re kids, not test scores,” he said.
Senior Alissa Guevera gave an impassioned speech decrying the turnover in teachers and administrators as she and her classmates conclude their four years at Clayton Valley. As promised, the day after the board meeting Linzey, McMorris and Stewart met with the student leadership
October 7, 2016
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 19
Look at walls differently for unique creations
Sons In Retirement
Bernie Theobald, John Carl, Bruce Persons, Jack Barnaba, Ken Peterson and Art Owen of the Clayton/Concord Sons In Retirement (SIR) branch display the special SIR State President’s Success Award recognizing the branch’s management, notable 2016 growth and active membership engagement that they received at the branch’s monthly luncheon in August at Oakhurst Country Club.
ror or piece of art behind the headboard, but imagine retexturing the entire bed wall in reclaimed wood. Or try it in a stairwell with one or two uninteresting walls, or a powder room with no window, a laundry room that desperately needs some interest – really anywhere. Using different lengths, heights and colors of reclaimed wood is a fun and artistic way to create a one of a kind focal point to wake up a tired wall. Another option is a picture frame, but on a much larger scale. Look at the foyer and the long, plain wall leading up to the coat closet. Again, a piece of art or a full-length mirror are the go-to objects for large, uninteresting walls. But instead, opt for a decorative trim, typically used for window and door casing, or even crown and base
molding to frame something unique. In this case, an artistically painted focal point or area with textured wallpaper would be “fancy” once framed. The framing material can be stained or painted, or if you are an avid DIYer, a unique faux finish would be festive. Find a contractor to help, or take it on yourself. Either way, the idea is to create a focal point. Whether it’s drapey like window treatments or smooth like an upholstered headboard, fabric on walls can add texture. And from a functional standpoint, it helps muffle unwanted echoes. Using fabric on walls is best suited for dry living spaces – not bathrooms, kitchens or laundry rooms. Consider creating a focal wall behind the hutch in the dining room, or gather fabric behind a bedroom headboard.
Clayton Historical Society
KELLER RANCH HOUSE DEDICATION The Clayton Historical Society is dedicating the Keller Ranch House historical monument on Saturday, Oct. 8 at 4 p.m. near the bridge behind the Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road. This is the society’s 11th historical marker. The home is listed on the California Register of Historical Resources. For more information, go to claytonhistory.org. HALLOWEEN PARTY Diamond Terrace and the Clayton Historical Society are co-sponsoring a Halloween Spooktacular Party at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 29 at Diamond Terrace. All are welcome.
JEnnIFER LEISCHER
DESIGN & DÉCOR
For a cozy setting, add upholstered walls to a small bedroom turned into a study, reading room or knitting room. If you have a room dedicated to a really big TV, incorporate fabric walls to not only help with unwanted echoes, but also to create a dramatic setting – so dramatic even the Chinese Theatre would be green with envy. 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.
Clayton Valley Woman’s Club
The party features ghoulishly good music by the band Grimace and frightfully entertaining ghost stories and slide show by paranormal author Ellis Byrd. There will be scary good prizes for best costume, so dress to kill. Gruesomely good food will be provided by Diamond Terrace. Diamond Terrace is a senior residential community. The party is in their Main Dining Hall, 6401 Center St., Clayton. The Clayton Historical Society is the nonprofit historical and educational organization in SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR SILVERWOOD ELEMENTARY charge of the Clayton MuseFran Hahn, Adopt-A-School chairman, and Connie Weimar, um. Admission to the party is Clayton Valley Woman’s Club president, stand with a sample of free. For more information, the over $700 in school supplies donated by CVWC to Silverplease send an email to wood Elementary School in Concord last month. The club has reneewing@sbcglobal.net. donated school supplies for seven consecutive years. Michele Pryor photo
Club News
Fancy walls can be wonderful focal points. It can be as easy as paint applied in an artistic way, textured wallpaper from floor to ceiling, or a gathering of artwork and shelves displaying your precious finds and baubles. But I’m thinking bigger – with decorative wall accouterments. I have a thing for reclaimed wood. Whether from an abandoned barn, a dilapidated residential structure, or a dated billboard or sign, reclaimed wood has an amazing flare. Its texture is worn and rough, with wonderful muted colors. When reworked, reclaimed wood can become something completely different. For example, consider a transitional bedroom with a plain wall that anchors the bed and side tables. You could place a mir-
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October 7, 2016
Concord Blue Devils drum corps featured in national reality TV series JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
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The 17-time world champion Blue Devils drum corps from Concord will be getting unprecedented exposure in the next couple of months as a featured part of “Clash of the Corps,” an eight-episode reality series starting this week on Fuse TV. Wrestler turned actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is involved in the project as an executive producer through his Seven Bucks Productions company. Johnson’s brother-in-law Hiram Garcia is a fan of drum corps and marching bands and floated the idea of a reality show about it a couple years ago. David Gibbs of the Blue Devils was approached about having the local corps involved in the project. “We signed a development deal in 2015,” Gibbs says. That certainly didn’t ensure the Blue Devils would soon be on television screens around America. “We have been involved with multiple TV development projects over the years that never came to fruition,” Gibbs added. Some filming was done in 2015 when the Blue Devils won their record-setting 17th Drum Corps International world championship. That footage was used to sell the concept and Gibbs expects a little of it will end up in the series. Seven Bucks got together with 44 Blue Productions and “Clash of the Corps” is now a reality. The show will feature the
© 2016 Fuse, LLC. All Rights Reserved
BLUE DEVILS management hopes that the professional aspect of their musicians will come through during the eight-part reality TV series “Clash of the Corps” that is on the Fuse network starting this week. The 17-time world champion Blue Devils from Concord will star in the series along with The Cadets from Allentown, PA.
Blue Devils and The Cadets of Allentown, Penn., who have the second most world titles with 10. “I think having The Cadets from the East Coast and the Blue Devils from the West Coast appealed to the directors. We have totally opposite styles so the show may have a certain amount of ‘count-counterpoint,’” Gibbs said. Gibbs explains that no one with the Blue Devils has seen the episodes. “We’ll be watching Oct. 5 just like everyone else.” There were certain ground rules set with the producers about what could and could not be filmed. The Blue Devils’ videographer of over two decades, Mike Zapanta, served as a consultant on the series. The producers filmed auditions for this season, rehearsals and then a number of competitions on the Blue Devils annual
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there’s as much “physicality and mentality” in an 11-minute Blue Devils performance as in any athletic endeavor. “Our mission is to create great human beings who are musical and creative,” Gibbs said. Fuse has over 71 million cable subscribers receiving the network, which is geared to a multicultural 18-34 year-old audience. Spoiler alert: You will have to watch “Clash of the Corps” (or check the internet now) to see how the Blue Devils and The Cadets fared this year! The “Clash of the Corps” airs on FUSE TV at 11 p.m. weekly starting on Wednesday. The network is seen locally on Xfinity/Comcast channels 476, 779 HD; Wave/Astound 407; DISH 164, 9589 HD; DirecTV 339; AT&T U-verse 182, 1535 HD; Online fuse.tv
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cross country journey and competitions leading to the DCI finals in Indianapolis last month. Fuse’s press release for “Clash of the Corps” says the series “will capture the blood, sweat and tears behind the scenes and on the road in the highly-competitive work of DCI.” Gibbs has been part of the Blue Devils since he began performing with them in 1974 and he’s still passionate about drum corps and the BD. “We’re very excited that the activity [drum corps] gets this exposure. 44 Blue and Seven Bucks love what the kids are doing and they will bring that to the rest of the country and world through the show.” Gibbs speaks enthusiastically about how competitive and athletic drum corps is and says
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