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October 8, 2004
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Specific Plan not specific enough TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
With only about 3.5 acres of downtown land left to build on, what goes on that land and what it looks like is of huge importance to Clayton. If Councilman Pete Laurence has his way, any future buildings in downtown will not only have to reflect Clayton’s “Old West” theme, but they will have to be two stories tall. The Town Center Specific Plan (TCSP) adopted in 1990 reflects the city’s preference for sales tax generating retail business in buildings that preserve the downtown’s “Old West” feel. But, Laurence says, the plan doesn’t go far enough. In a Sept. 15 memo to the City Council, Laurence asks that the city “require (all) remaining construction to be two stories…” in an effort to double the space available for commercial development. Mayor Julie Pierce, who was a member of the committee that drafted the TCSP, thinks the existing plan is fine. “I don’t think the guidelines are soft at all,” she said. “Size and scale are already addressed very clearly in the plan. “Besides,” she continued, “how do we dictate to someone who has private property rights? Don’t we have to trust the property owners to do due diligence and do what is economically feasible?” The only new commercial construction that might be affected is is an 8,500-squarefoot building proposed for the vacant lot behind Clayton Community Church. The developers have made the
See Plan, page 19
KICKING
Photos by Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
OFF THE FESTIVITIES
at the first annual Oktoberfest, Mayor Julie Pierce taps the keg while Vice Mayor Gregg Manning fills his glass.
Oktoberfest rolls out the barrels JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Clayton celebrated in true Oktoberfest fashion last weekend as Main Street was transformed into a German Volkfest with all the trimmings. Sponsored by the Clayton Business and Community Association, the festival brought residents, families and friends together to enjoy imported German beer, great food and scrumptious desserts. Lines were forming in the early hours of the festival waiting to taste the mouthwatering bratwurst, beerwurst and hofbrau offerings.
And what’s a German festival without the toe tapping sounds of an oompah band? Festivalgoers were not disappointed. The Internationals played a variety of marches, waltzes, polkas and lively renditions of famous beer drinking songs. Two hours into the festival and the band tent was packed with music and dance lovers. They raised their beer mugs, swayed to the music and sang along with the talented foursome. The Internationals are the only nonGerman band that has been invited to play in the world famous Munich Oktoberfest. Those that came to shop,
shopped till they dropped with more than 30 vendors selling jewelry, arts and crafts, books and holiday gift ideas. Even the kids got into the Oktoberfest spirit with a pumpkin patch and kinderland. Mayor Julie Pierce helped kick off the event with the traditional tap of the first keg of beer. She was led onto the dance floor by a rousing rendition of “Roll Out the Barrel,” with the crowd singing their hearts out. “Do we know how to throw a party or what,” said CBCA
See Oktoberfest, page 17
THE INTERNATIONALS provided the polka music and yodeling for the two day event. Above, Bob Maggiore on accordion and Steve McGinnis on bass. Not pictured are Porter Goltz and Jan Meere.
Security cams needed at CVHS
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer CVHS PRINCIPAL JOHN NEARY
JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
The new Clayton Valley High School state-of-the-art football field is ready to go. The CVHS Eagles’ first home game of the season will kick off on the new turf this Friday, October 8. And to add to the
excitement, it’s homecoming weekend at the high school and fans are expected to fill the stadium. By the end of the month the new track will be open. And for the first time in a number of years, CVHS will host track and field meets at home. The multimillion dollar athletic facility raises the bar on high school sports venues.
But there’s a dark cloud in every silver lining. Vandalism is rampant at Clayton Valley High School and poses a disturbing threat to the improvements on and off the new field. According to Pat Middendorf, CVHS girls athletic director, everyone is tired of the destruction. “We want our school back and we want it now.” The snack shack was burned, goal posts have been cut down, windows have been broken in the press box, track equipment has been damaged, the senior tree is besieged by vandals, walls on campus bear bicycle tire marks, and just about every Monday custodians have to remove graffiti from buildings. Principal John Neary says the vandalism has become more aggressive in the past two years. Along with all the other prob-
lem areas, skateboarding on campus after hours has caused a lot of destruction. “It’s a burr under my saddle,” Neary says. There’s a lot at stake here. Besides the new field and turf, Clayton Valley has added 14 new classrooms, computer labs, computers in the classrooms and office, and new landscaping. “We’re in a great place,” Neary said, referring to the condition of the campus, and he’d like to keep it that way. There’s been discussion for some time about purchasing security cameras for the school and “the new multi-million athletic field has motivated us to go ahead with the project,” says Neary. He explains that current technology in video cameras is very sophisticated and if vandals attempt to destroy anything on campus, they are easily identified on tape. Cameras would
be turned on at night to monitor the activity of trespassers when the custodians leave, and turned off when staff arrives in the morning. It would take about 12 to 14 cameras to cover the cam-
“We want our school back and we want it now.” Pat Middendorf, CVHS girls athletic director pus and estimated cost for the security system is about $40,000. According to Middendorf, the school district has no money for the project. The CVHS
Parent Faculty Club is planning to donate $15,000 from their dues fund. And they’ve joined together with the Athletic Boosters, who are contributing about $6,000, to ask the Clayton Business and Community Association to help with the funding for the security system. CBCA contributed funds for goals, benches and a new scoreboard at the new stadium. In a recent letter sent to the membership, CBCA President Ed Hartley noted “protecting the investment is just as important as making the investment.” He said that the CBCA board has recommended that its association donate up to $20,000 for the purchase and installation of the cameras. If CBCA votes in favor of the proposed sum, explains Hartley, it would be one of the largest donation in the association’s 20-year history.
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
Around Town Erin Dobratz has her day
YMCA Back to School BBQ sizzles On September 22 the YMCA sponsored a community night BBQ at the Clayton Community Gym attended by
approximately 150 people. The BBQ was held the same evening as Diablo View Middle School's Back to School Night. Parents
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
ERIKA WOLFRAM, 7, works up an appetite on the Obstacle Course at the YMCA Back to School BBQ.
enjoyed hamburgers, hot dogs, drinks and macaroni salad (prepared by the children in the after school program) with their children. They then left them in the care of YMCA Program Directors Liz Travers and Delise Young and staff during the parents only back-to-school night activities. Liz Travers planned an evening of fun for the children that included a large air-filled obstacle course and soccer on the field. Delise said the BBQ was so successful Liz had to run to the store to buy more food. Parents were given information on the numerous YMCA after school programs available to the Clayton community. If you are interested in any of the YMCA's many programs call Liz Travers at 889-1600 for information.
CCC honored for Derby Day Mayor Julie Pierce honored Clayton Community Church for its Labor Day Soap Box Derby by presenting Pastor Shawn Robinson and Event Chair Mike Fossen with a commendation from the City. "When we started this church, one of our main goals was to become a real part of the community," said the Pastor. This (commendation) is not only a recognition, but a signal that we are moving in the right direction." "It was a wonderful event and the first of what we hope is an annual event for Clayton," said the mayor. Over 70 kids participated in the Derby and the church is planning an even bigger event next year.
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer MIKE FOSSEN, JULIE PIERCE AND SHAWN ROBINSON
courtesy of the Dobratz family
ERIN DOBRATZ calls family with the news of her Bronze Medal win.
Erin Dobratz was recognized by the City Council on Sept. 21 for her bronze medal win in the Synchronized Swimming team technical event at the 2004 Olympics in Athens. An official declaration presented by Mayor Julie Pierce honored Erin for her past and present achievements in swimming and proclaimed September 22, 2004 "Erin Dobratz Day." Following the Olympics, Erin returned to Stanford University where she is a senior majoring in Communications. Erin will continue to swim competitively on the Stanford synchronized swimming team.
Steve Weir urges voters to pay attention at Clayton Valley Women’s club luncheon Carnac the Magnificent (a.k.a. Steve Weir) recently spoke at the Clayton Valley Woman's Club membership luncheon and warmed up the audience with his funny take on Carnac's question and answer routine -- election style. Question: What kind of shoes will George Bush wear to the debate on Thursday? Answer: Waffle stompers. Weir, the Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder, got down to serious business when he talked about the upcoming presidential election and how to make sure your vote counts. "I'm here to tell you how to vote, not who to vote for," Weir said. He's been tallying votes for the county since 1989, and his
expertise and passion for the job are evident. Weir is on a mission to make sure voters are aware of the voting process and potential problems, especially with absentee ballots. Weir urges voters to read the instructions and pay attention to details to be sure their vote counts in the November election. "If you go to the precinct and mark that ballot with the pen they give you, we are going to count your vote," he said. Weir referred to the tallying process, which he oversees, as very "methodical." "If it's a close race, I might be looking like a snail," he said referring to the need to recount every vote. "But fast and cheap is not always accurate." It's good to know that your
vote really does count when it makes its way into the hands of a professional.
Jill Bedecarré/Clayton Pioneer
STEVE WEIR, Contra Costa County Clerk/Recorder
When you call Lynne French, be sure to request a free copy of her special report “29 Essential Tips That Get Homes Sold Fast (And For Top Dollar).” This valuable information can save you precious time and money as you prepare to make your move.
(925) 672-8787 www.LynneFrench.com Lynne@LynneFrench.com
S
omeone who’s always on the go and always in the know, Lynne French’s natural energy and positive personality drive her to make the most of every moment, whether it’s in her hobbies, in her home life with husband, Danny, or in her role as one of the area’s leading real estate professionals. With such a determined approach, it’s easy to see how Lynne has made such a
lasting impact through her long-running real estate career. By working her hardest and providing the most possible options, she has helped many Discover the Possibilities in the East Bay Area real estate market. Whether you’re buying or selling, Lynne French and her team are the ones to know for a higher level of service. Give them a call today and experience the difference for yourself.
6200-E Center St. 1801 N. California Blvd.
Clayton, CA 94517 Walnut Creek, CA 94596
October 8, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Around Town Cesar Muñoz celebrates return from Iraq
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
Clockwise from top: Efrain Muñoz (Cesar’s father), Pete Laurence, Cesar Muñoz, Eileen Muñoz (Cesar’s sister), Elena Muñoz (Cesar’s mother), and Laura Hoffmeister of the City of Clayton.
U.S. Naval Petty Officer 3rd Class, Cesar Muñoz was honored by friends, family and the officials from the City of Clayton at a party last week at Skipolini’s Pizza. Partygoers swayed to the sounds of Clayton’s Vintage Band and Councilman Pete Laurence presented Muñoz with a proclamation declaring September 25 as Cesar E. Muñoz Day in Clayton. “Since Cesar couldn’t come to us at the next council meeting, we came to him,” said Laurence as he commended Muñoz on his service to his country.
Steven Skinner to the rescue
Muñoz returned this month from a seven-month tour of duty in Iraq where he served in Supply Medical Logistics. Muñoz was stationed at Camp Ridgeway, about 35 miles west of Bhagdad. Muñoz was in Clayton to visit his parents for only one day on his way to Camp Pendelton, where he will report for duty and another possible tour in Iraq. Muñoz attended Diablo View Middle School and was a 2000 graduate of CVHS. He enlisted in the Navy in 2001. He is married and the father of a one-year-old daughter.
Stick ‘em up, pardner
CHP Officer Rob Pesmark honored On Tuesday September 28th CHP Officer and Clayton resident Rob Pesmark received recognition at the Hercules City Council Meeting and was presented an award by Mayor
Joanne Ward in conjunction with C.H.P and California State Automobile Association for outstanding achievement in vehicle theft enforcement. This award is given to officers who recover over 12 stolen vehicles per year. Rob received the award for 2002 and 2003, and is just shy of another award for this year. Rob and Denise Pesmark and their two sons, Charlie, 3, and Andrew 1, have lived in Clayton for five years. The Pesmark’s are members of Concord CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL Officer Mt. Diablo Trail Ride and Clayton resident Rob Pesmark Association.
Directory of Advertisers Aames Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-862-1947 Abbey Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 ACME Auto Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-8495 Aegis Senior Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .692-5838 Aircloud Wireless Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 Alise Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7701 All Bright Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5900 Apronstrings Pet Sitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-7621 Aragon, Al - Wells Fargo Home Mortgage . . . . . . .287-6921 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6622 Benton, Mureleen - American Express . . . . . . . . . .685-4523 Blimpie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9531 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 CTA Crossroads Theatre - Seussical . . . . . . . . . . .944-0597 Call, J. Richard - Mortgage Broker . . . . . . . . . . . . .937-2300 Clayton Community Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9060 Clayton Fitness and Tanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2010 Clayton Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4664 Clayton Hair Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1500 Clayton Saddlery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6100 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clayton Valley Medical Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6744 Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5198 Clip 'n Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-9355 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 ComUnity Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5363 Concord Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-1181 Concord Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9530
Jill Bedecarré/Clayton Pioneer
LUIS HAMILTON (center) surrenders to gunfighters Bill Pentello (left) and Alford Chappell (right).
Clayton resident Luis Hamilton was one of about 50 people who enjoyed a taste of the Old West when Gunfghters
of the Old West rode into town recently. Sponsored by Clayton Saddlery the group reenacted gunfights from old
Contra Costa Termite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-7665 Country Dog Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6100 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . . .524-5100 Dianne Davis Piano Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5677 East County Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-664-4527 Fantastic Sams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8580 Fasquelle, Henry, Piano Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2237 Flannery,Patty - Coldwell Banker Real Estate . . . .210-7480 Fleury's Floor Covering, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-1010 Fox and the Fiddle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1333 French, Lynne - Coldwell Banker Real Estate . . . .672-8787 Graham Family Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-1333 Greek Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-6967 Gregory,Cynthia - Permanent Solution . . . . . . . . . .672-8990 Hair and Make-up by Marissa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .408-8068 Haydon, Cynthia - Avon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8262 Help You Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-4950 HomEquity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1119 IMC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-2200 Instant Imprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9815 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . .939-7920 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Linguini's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6868 Law Office of Richard Littorno . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Lyone Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .827-1520 Main Street Aesthetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8969 Mavericks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-5600 Mazzei Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5600 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100
Nine-year-old Steven Skinner is a lifesaver. The young Clayton resident was quick to react recently when his mom Christine and twoyear old brother, David found themselves in a heap of trouble in a friend’s swimming pool. Mom and David were floating in the pool on a raft when David wanted some of his brother’s PB&J sandwich. They paddled over to where Steven was sitting and David got a piece of the sandwich. When they paddled back out to the deep end, David reached to get another piece and the raft tipped over. Mom, who can’t swim, went under the water clutching David as the raft landed on top of them. She came up once and screamed and tossed David up in the air to help him breathe. When Mom and baby went back under the water, Steven sensed they were in trouble and dove into the pool, flipped over the raft and quickly swam to retrieve a lifesaver raft, which he dragged over to Mom and David. He helped pull them to safety. “I thought my mom was going to die,” Steven said. I was taking deep, deep breaths. I was so west days. On the corner lot behind the Clayton Club Saloon onlookers watched a shootout between “Dave Tutt” and “Wild Bill” Hickock. The group performed in authentic dress and used the vernacular of the era making the old frontier come alive.
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
STEVEN, CHRISTINE AND DAVID SKINNER
relieved.” When not rescuing his family, Steven enjoys baseball and scouting.
What’s up “Around Town” Weddings, births, anniversaries, special honors, out of town guests, great events . . . Let us know what is happening "Around Town," and we'll share the news. Drop off the details and a color photo at the Pioneer office , 6200 F Center Street, or e-mail tamara@claytonpioneer.com
Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . . .280-8563 Network Service Center (NSC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5009 Norman Joyal Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0059 Nu Image Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1777 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Pacific Coast Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429-2123 Palace Beauty Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .408-8068 Pro Home Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .937-3300 Pro Tech Heating and Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . .673-3776 R&M Pool, Patio & Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0207 Robin's Nest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Robin's Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-6105 Smith Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6461 St. John's Episcopal Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8855 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 T&K Images . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0010 The Dog Smoothies & Sausages . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5415 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 TLC Pet Grooming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2547 Totah, Sam - Crocker Securities . . . . . . . . . . .800-641-2895 Truesdell, Lisa - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . . . .686-4747 Van-Fleet-Bronson, Remax Real Estate . . . . . . . . .672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . .672-2300 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . .672-4433 Walcutt, Bill - Prudential Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .437-5535 We The People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246-0370 Wine Thieves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4003 Young, Susan - All Natural Nails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .963-0893 Zandonella's Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-1700
GEORGE VUJNOVICH, Broker 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517 Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
Tel: (925) 672-4433 Fax: (925) 672-4424
georgevujnovich.com Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty
ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
1025 Feather Circle 1505 Tara Court 5127 Keller Ridge Drive 22 Long Creek Circle 341 Saclan Terrace 996 Kenston Drive 26 Nottingham Circle 704 Anizumne Court 9 Clark Creek Circle 3093 Windmill Cyn Drive 7016 Molluk Way
$539,000 $585,000 $720,000 $415,000 $555,000 $645,000 $685,000 $529,500 $385,000 $625,000 $590,000
09/30/04 09/28/04 09/27/04 09/27/04 09/22/04 09/17/04 09/16/04 09/15/04 09/14/04 09/14/04 09/14/04
1,338 1,739 2,313 1,376 1,991 1,682 2,210 1,749 1,050 1,816 1,816
BED/BATH
2/2 4/3 4/2.5 3/2.5 3/2.5 4/2 4/2.5 3/2.5 2/2 3/2 3/2
ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
63 Antelope Court 3305 Coyote Circle 550 Mt. Dell 641 Mt. Duncan Drive 586 Mt. Dell Drive 25 Atchison Stage Road 566 Mt. Dell Drive 1558 O'Hara Court 336 Saclan Terrace 370 Blue Oak Lane 25 Long Creek Circle
$885,000 $420,000 $450,000 $729,980 $435,000 $690,000 $440,000 $565,000 $590,000 $769,000 $439,900
09/13/04 09/10/04 09/10/04 09/09/04 09/09/04 09/08/04 09/07/04 09/03/04 09/03/04 09/02/04 09/02/04
3,162 1,252 1,423 2,481 1,423 2,275 1,423 1,739 1,929 2,515 1,378
BED/BATH
5/2.5 2/2.5 3/2. 5/3 3/2 4/2 3/2 4/3 3/2.5 4/2 3/2.5
ADDRESS
PRICE
SALE DATE
SF
1056 Pebble Beach Drive 37 Regency Drive 1163 Moccasin Court 1332 Shell Lane 262 Stranahan Circle 215 Round House Place 244 Roundhill Place 5120 Keller Ridge Drive 967 Tiffin Drive 5150 Morgan Territory 900 Elk Drive
$1,045,000 $649,000 $578,000 $515,900 $560,000 $575,000 $850,000 $640,000 $640,000 $930,000 $730,000
09/01/04 08/31/04 08/31/04 08/26/04 08/26/04 08/26/04 08/20/04 08/19/04 08/19/04 08/18/04 08/18/04
3,620 1,895 1,639 1,745 1,650 1,991 2,664 1,877 1,456 3,900 2,237
All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed
BED/BATH
5/2.5 4/2 3/2.5 3/3 3/2.5 3/2.5 5/2.5 3/2.5 3/2 4/2.5 3/2
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
The Van Fleet-B Bronson
Personal Service Make s the D ifference
Family
Featured H ome A Classic Victorian, circa 1876. Located in San Jose's coveted Willow Glen neighborhood. Two years in restoration. 4,600 + square feet, 4+ bedrooms, 4+ bathrooms. The kitchen is a gourmet cook's delight with brand new, yet appropriate, appliances, formal entry, music room, formal dining room & living room, laundry rooms, fabulous basement recreation room with large built-in bar and large screen television viewing area, wrap around front porch and second story balcony, crystal chandeliers and other tasteful appointments throughout. Too many features to list. For more information on this special home, please call our office or better yet, come by and see the many other features this once in a life time home has. $1,550,000
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Properties A vailable Back Yard to Die For! This is just a stunning home and property with beautiful front and back yards with pool, fountain and pond. Property backs to open space and is located in a great neighborhood. Home features include: 2,233 square feet of living space, a spacious family room with cathedral ceiling, wonderful kitchen and dining area, brick fireplace, breakfast bar, formal living and dining rooms, vaulted ceiling, master bedroom suite with slider to your private spa. Back yard features include: beautiful walkways, decks, landscaping with automatic sprinklers. Don't miss the refrigerated wine room and vault. Hurry! This one won't last. $524,950
2003/2004 Better Business Honor Roll Ranked #56 worldwide of 90,000 RE/MAX Realtors 2004 Heritage Registry of Who’s Who Member, Concord Chamber of Commerce Member, Oakhurst Country Club
Beautiful One Story Home with Delta Views! Enjoy all that this lovely home in Antioch has to offer including: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1,930 square feet of living space, recessed lighting, den, living room, family room with tiled fireplace, dining area, beam ceilings, beautiful spacious tile kitchen and with plenty of cabinets, new floor, island and breakfast nook. The stained glass stays in the master bedroom suite. There's cultured marble and double vanities in both baths and sunken oval tub in the spacious master bathroom. Slider in master bedroom takes you to the private, serene yard with large hot tub, gazebo and Delta views. Nicely landscaped front and back yards. Finished 3 car garage with free standing storage cabinets that stay. $474,000
RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Suite D Clayton, CA 94517
925-672-4333 www.CallTheVanFleetTeam.com
Old World Charm! Many features accent this lovely two
We l ove r eferrals
story home including: 2 bedrooms, 1 & ½ bath, and 1,187 square feet of living space in a quant neighborhood. Living room with brick fireplace, kitchen with dining area, wood paneled den/bonus room, screened in back porch and large attic. Roomy back yard that backs to open space with fruit trees, and rose garden. Walk on to your balcony from the double doors in the main bedroom overlooking the yard. There is so much potential to this adorable home with its style and character. Offered for only:
Enjoy a wonderful dinner at The Fox and The Fiddle, downtown Clayton, when you refer a successful buyer or seller to Van Fleet-Bronson, RE/MAX Real Estate.
Pending Properties 260 Stranahan Circle 118 & 120 Crivello Ave. 1130 Morello Ave. 4460 Shannondale Dr.
2068 Oakridge Lane 2806 Stirrup Dr. 770 Beatrice Street
Coming Soon 1061 Westmont Court 991 Almaden Court 375 Grovewood Loop 5324 Olive Drive
$325,000
Better Than New! Absolutely lovely, 3 bedroom, 2 & ½ bath home with 1,515 square feet of living space. Many features accent this great home including a wonderful kitchen, dining area and family room combined. Kitchen features a convection oven, glass cook top, microwave, breakfast bar and pantry. This home also has a formal living room as you walk in the front door and a beautiful staircase that takes you to the 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Snuggle up to the brick fireplace in this great family room. Also included are very nice front and back yards, well maintained and loved as is this home with a perfect floor plan. Located in a nice, quiet family neighborhood.
SALE ING PEND
2037 Sierra Road #7 3120 Lone Tree Way 1130 Veterans Court
$425,000
Concord sales on the Clayton side of town Address
Price
Sale Date
SF
Bed/Bath
Address
Price
Sale Date
SF
Bed/Bath
$1,017,150
9/15/2004
4300
5&4.5
$605,000
9/24/2004
1944
3&2
1175 Krona Lane
$729,700
8/26/2004
2484
4&2.5
5261 Crystal Ranch Drive
1739 Tennyson Drive
$542,000
9/14/2004
1313
3&2
1683 Dugan Court
5722 Roanwood Way
$565,000
8/16/2004
1919
4&2
5312 Oak Point Court
$1,001,950
8/20/2004
3211
5&3.5
1347 Pennslyvania Blvd
$420,000
8/25/2004
1080
3&1.5
1520 Schenone Court
$265,000
9/22/2004
768
2&1
2287 Flagstone Way
$689,000
8/20/2004
2493
4&2.5
5271 Pebble Glen Drive
$455,000
9/9/2004
1614
3&2.5
5504 Arizona Drive
$450,000
8/13/2004
1128
3&2
5450 Concord Blvd
$256,000
8/13/2004
902
2&1
5313 Oak Point Court
$979,950
9/12/2004
2418
4&2
4852 Myrtle Drive
$620,000
8/27/2004
1858
3&2
5279 Concord Blvd
$617,000
8/24/2004
1600
3&3
5550 Banff Court
$600,000
9/15/2004
-
3&2
1283 New Hamphshire
$540,000
9/3/2004
1481
3&2
5230 La Corte Bonita
$576,000
8/31/2004
1407
4&2
5510 Roundtree Drive
$264,000
9/3/2004
973
2&1.5
5330 Lightwood
$545,000
9/15/2004
1928
4&2
5474 Roundtree Place
$236,000
8/20/2004
973
2&1.5
1460 Rhode Island Court
$500,000
8/26/2004
1321
3&2
5183 Brookside Lane
$665,000
9/16/2004
2445
4&3
2148 Bluerock Circle
$539,000
9/2/2004
1572
3&2
5463 Preston Court
$549,950
9/13/2004
2049
3&2.5
5568 Pine Hollow Road
$920,000
8/13/2004
2311
4&3
$1,095,950
8/20/2004
3491
6&3.5
5004 Hames Drive
$520,000
8/17/2004
1555
4&2
5333 Park Highlands Blvd
$325,000
8/20/2004
1104
2&1.5
5252 Ambleside Drive
$890,000
8/20/2004
3168
5&3.5
1352 Maryland Drive
$445,000
9/2/2004
1128
3&2
5304 Oak Point Court
All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
October 8, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 5
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF CLAYTON SOLICITS PROPOSALS FOR COMMERCIAL-RETAIL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT
CITY OF CLAYTON PLANNING COMMISSION HAS ONE OPENING TO FILL AN UNFILLED TERM UNTIL JUNE 2006.
The City of Clayton, through its Redevelopment Agency, is seeking proposals from firms or individuals with demonstrated ability to design and construct smaller retail-commercial projects. The available vacant property for purchase (approx. 8,122 sq.ft.) is owned by the Clayton Redevelopment Agency.
The Planning Commission is composed of five members, who are appointed by the City Council for two-year terms. The Planning Commission advises the City Council on land use matters, including general plan amendments and zone changes. The Commission also makes decisions on site plans, use permits, subdivisions, and variances
The land is a commercial corner lot located at the northeast corner of Oak and Center Streets in the Clayton Town Center. The City is particularly interested in 2-story building proposals with ground floor retail use(s). The unimproved land is also located within the boundaries of the Clayton Redevelopment Agency Project Area. A copy of the Request For Proposals (RFP) may be obtained from the Clayton City Clerk by calling 925.673-7300, by writing to City of Clayton, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, CA 94517, or by email to: rbasore@ci.clayton.ca.us. All proposals are due by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 24, 2004. The City reserves the right to accept or reject any or all Proposals submitted within the timeframe specified or to extend the self-imposed filing deadline, at its sole discretion.
The Planning Commission meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road. The Planning Commissioners receive a stipend $100 per month when a meeting is held. Applicants must be 18 or over and a resident of Clayton. Applications may be obtained from Clayton City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, 673-7300, rbasore@ci.clayton.ca.us; or from the City's Web site: www.ci.clayton.ca.us By mail: E-mail:
Call City offices at 925/673-7300 contact rbasore@ci.clayton.ca.us
Please return the completed application to the City Clerk by 5 p.m., Fri. Oct. 22, 2004.
HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of
P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580 TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER Co-Publishers TAMARA S TEINER Editor J ILL B EDECARRÉ Assistant Editor and Display Advertising J IM Z EWAN , Sports P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant Member of the California Newspaper Publishers Assoc.
Insurance Management Corporation “Serving the Local Community”
Do you have the right business insurance coverage? With over 20 years of experience, we at Insurance Management Corporation understand that no two businesses are exactly alike. Over the past several years we have aligned ourselves with several of the top rated insurance companies in the industry today. This gives you the opportunity to take advantage of
race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance. LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” You can also e-mail your letter to tamara@ claytonpioneer.com
Estimated $1 to 1.8 million needed for capital improvements TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
The City of Clayton has a long list of capital improvement projects that have been deferred over the past few years because there is no money to complete them. The City needs between $1 and $1.8 million to replace inadequate irrigation systems and landscaping in almost every neighborhood in town and to repair the Clayton fountain at Center and Oakhurst Streets. The fountain only operates on select holidays and for community events. Daily operation of the fountain costs about $57,000 a year. Last year, the City Council appointed a Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee (BRLMC) to review and evaluate the City’s landscaping and to bring cost estimates for maintenance and improvements up to 2004 dollars. The findings are dismal. The current landscape assessment of $122.90 brings in about $535,000 per year, According to the BRLMC, this is only about one third of what is needed to maintain the landscaping at the levels preferred by most Claytonians.
Letter to the Editor Clayton Cleans Up The Clayton Cleans Up held on Sept, 25 had fewer participants than usual. We think that this was due in part to Soccer Season in full swing, and the fact that many Scout troops were involved in an adventure camp on the weekend of the 25th. Those who did turn out worked extremely hard and the Community Services Commission would like to thank them all. In addition to
The capital improvements are not provided for in the Landscape District budget, nor are they included in the General Fund budget. This year, the City will have to dip into reserves to make ends meet. According to Assistant to the City Manager Laura Hoffmeister, the original assessment, passed as Measure E by the voters in 1997 was probably inadequate to begin with. And, while the Bay Area inflation rate has been 25.7 percent since 1997, Measure E capped annual increases at two percent, allowing for only a 10 percent increase since inception. The District has been falling behind every year. The Landscape Maintenance District comes up for renewal election in 2007, but the City is hoping to bring the issue to the voters before then. In preparation for this, The BRLMC is meeting every other Monday to prepare a strategic plan for getting the District renewed. The public is invited and encouraged to bring concerns and suggestions to these meetings. Call Rhonda Basore, City Clerk, at 673-7300 for the date of the next meeting. Source: BRLMC Report dated Sept. 18, 2004 by Bill Vineyard.
litter pickup, volunteers also did trimming of overgrown shrubs along the sidewalks and planted bulbs near the picnic area near Black Diamond Plaza and along the creek trails. For those Scout Troops still looking for a community service project, we have lots of bulbs left that need to be planted. If troop leaders contact me at 672-7815, we can schedule a bulb planting work party sometime in October or November, when the weather is more conducive to bulb planting. Linda Pinder, Commissioner Community Service Commission
Classified FOR SALE BEDROOM SET: brand new, never used. 7-piece estate quality sleigh bed, chest, dresser, mirror, 2 nightstands, armoire. List $7,500, sacrifice $1,995, Dining Room Set: Brand new in box, 7- piece, solid cherrywood. List $2,000, sacrifice $495, Sofa, loveseat, and chair: New in plastic. $595. Memory foam mattress: As seen on TV. Brand new, still in plastic, $395.00. (925) 383-1988.
FOUND 2 ADULT CATS on Morgan Territory Road. One dark gray long-haired and one black with white mittens. (925) 672-2529
HELP WANTED HVAC INSTALLER 3 yrs. minimum experience. Good DMV and EPA certified. Call 925-673-3776
HAIR STYLISTS. New Fantastic Sams Salon. Cuts, color, perms, free education, flex hours, fun atmosphere. Base plus commission. Great Concord location. Call Aaron, 925-899-8687A.
SERVICES PIANO LESSONS Cynthia West, a Clayton Valley High School senior with ten years of playing experience and two years of teaching experience, is accepting beginning piano students for individual lessons. In each half-hour lesson, students are taught proper piano technique and theory in a comfortable environment. For more information call Cynthia at (925) 6735026.
Competitive Pricing Comprehensive Coverage & Complete Personalized Service. Our commercial client list ranges from companies with as little as 2 employees to more than 12,000 employees, assets of $10,000 to more than $1 billion and companies with only one office to companies with offices all over the world. General Liability Property Garage Liability
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Medical/Dental Business Auto Workers Comp
Phone: (925) 673-2200 Fax: (925) 673-2212
Get Your Home Loan From The #1 Mortgage Lender in Clayton* Al Aragon Home Mortgage Consultant 1277 Treat Blvd., Ste 150 • Walnut Creek, CA 94596
925-287-6921
6160 Center Street, Ste. B, Clayton, CA 94517
WWW.IMCSERVICES.COM “Your locally owned and operated Agency” License #OC54731 *Based on 2003 year end statistics by Marketrac Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2000 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All Rights Reserved #17557
Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
Frankly Speaking: Henry Frank Fourth in the Frank Family series At the time Henry Frank’s elder brother, Fred Jr., died upon his return from the Yukon gold rush in 1900, Fred was engaged to Lillien Russelmann. Fred had worked for Captain Russelmann on Spring Hill Farm east of Clayton, and upon his death, Henry assumed Fred’s position as ranch hand. By 1903 he was also married to his deceased brother’s former fiancée, Lillien. Henry Frank was born at home at the Clayton Winery in 1877, the fifth of the 12 Frank children. He attended Clayton School, now Mt. Diablo Elementary, on top of the hill. Lillien, an only child, inherited her parents’ ranch and the Victorian house her father had built in the 1870s. Henry tended his fruit orchards, vineyard and vegetable garden. He also raised livestock. He knew which hollowed out trees housed bee hives and would venture out at night to collect honey. Each Wednesday he loaded the wagon with whatever bounty the ranch produced and went by horsedrawn wagon to New York
Landing (Pittsburg) to peddle his goods. Mrs. Hillman would telephone Lillien when Henry passed her house on Kirker Pass and say, “Put on supper, Henry’s on his way home!” In horse and wagon days, the responsibility for maintaining county roads fell to local farmers because by the time a horse and wagon could get from the county seat in Martinez to Clayton, it would be time to eat lunch and head back for Martinez. Henry was contracted by Contra Costa County to maintain the section of Marsh Creek Road from the town of Clayton to Morgan Territory Road. For fun, local groups would pack a picnic lunch and hike to the top of Mt. Diablo. On one such occasion, Henry was in charge of distributing the sacks of food and supplies to be carried. Mary “Tootie” McGuire volunteered to carry a sack. When they reached the summit, Henry asked Tootie to open the sack to share what she had toted. The sack was full of rocks! The Frank men were
known for their wicked senses of humor. Henry was no exception. Henry and Lillien were Christian Scientists. They attended church in Concord in
the piano at church. She also organized sing-alongs at Clayton School for local children. Willmetta Frank Mann remembers her Aunt Lily playing “What’s Become of Sally” (that
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPH of Henry Frank and Lillien Mathilda “Lily” Russelmann taken in 1903 in San Francisco. Henry and Lillien Frank lived two miles east of Clayton off Marsh Creek Road. the Elworthy Foskett building on Salvio Street. Lillien was artistically talented and played
old gal of mine) on the school piano. Lillien’s “city cousins” would
come during the summer to camp on the ranch on the side of Mt. Diablo. They referred to the camping spot as “Camp Jolly.” In the late 1920s Henry decided to make the spot a resort and dug a swimming pool using a team of horses. He built a dressing room, snack vending area, horseshoe pits, picnic tables and a dance floor. A Victrola provided music. Henry and Lillien named their resort “Russelmann Park.” The park provided entertainment until it closed to the public in 1969, having been operated by three generations after Henry. The Victorian ranch house was the gathering place for many holidays. In preparation for one Thanksgiving, Lillien had been fattening up a turkey. Everyone kept teasing her that the turkey would not be big enough for the family’s dinner. When the family was at the table and she opened the oven door of the wood stove, she took out a small quail and set it on the platter to be carved. She got the last laugh. Henry and Lillien had three
JANET EASTON
OLD TIMES
children, Clarence, Lois and Alvin, all of whom inherited Lillien’s artistic flair. She taught them to play the piano and draw. All three married into local families and gave Henry and Lillien six grandchildren. The artistic genes are evident in some members of the current generation and decidedly missing in others. More information about these families and other Clayton pioneers may be found at the Clayton Historical Society Museum, 6101 Main St. The museum is open Wednesdays and Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m. Janet Easton is a member of the Clayton Historical Society. E-mail your questions or comments to jeaston51@aol.com.
Classical, jazz, blues, rock—give them all a chance It’s been said that music is the universal language. It can transcend cultural and personal differences as much or more than anything else. But within this wonderful medium for expression exists plenty of bias. It has long been one of my biggest pet peeves that many of us think “our music” is the only kind that really matters. This leads to factions and separation among musicians and music lovers. Perhaps it’s just an extension of our fragile human nature that we need things to set us apart from everyone else. True, we take pleasure when we find others who think like we do and have similar values to our own. But we prefer to be onto something special that makes us or our group a little better than everyone else. There are 12 notes in each octave on a piano. Certain musical instruments, such as wind instruments or guitars, allow these notes to be bent and shaped into additional, inbetween notes. Beyond that, different types of music are defined by the notes they use and don’t use, along with the
rhythms, harmonies and syncopation that takes place in a song or musical piece. There’s
JIM HUDAK
MUSIC NOTES no doubt that blues music utilizes different ingredients than classical. But they’re both legitimate musical art forms, in spite of the two very different musical camps in which they reside. One of my oldest friends happens to be a brilliant musician. He grew up studying classical and popular music and had an early interest in jazz and blues. He was very well rounded and was open to virtually any style of music. Nowadays, jazz totally consumes him. He suddenly looks down his nose at any
music that isn’t jazz. I would call it a phase, but it’s been going on for several years now. He’s quite a different person from the guy I used to know. Hey, heaven knows jazz is wonderful music. But it’s not the only music. Classical music lovers can be just as guilty. While classical music is marvelous and beautiful, it represents only one piece of the musical pie. And with much of it written more than 200 years ago, those who limit themselves to classical are missing out on a lot of other great music. Rappers and hip-hoppers,
you can be just as stubborn. While the rhythms, sounds, and poetry of the streets may be well represented by your choice of music, it’s not all there is. Just like jazz, classical, pop, blues, folk, country and rock, there’s room for everything. Do some exploring. Give it all a chance. The key is to keep an open mind. We need not cheat ourselves out of the ubiquitous nature of music just because we favor a certain type. It’s there for us all to enjoy without bias.
umn appears regularly in the Pioneer. Contact him at jimmydak@pacbell.net. His piano music
CD’s are available from his Web site at www.jhudak.com or at amazon.com.
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Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm & Christmas Trees
Thinking About
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Open Every Day through October 31st - 9 am to 8 pm
©Harvest Magic, Inc. 2004
Gigantic Plumpkin Playland with our famous Tunnel of Straw and Bean Pots z z Train Rides z Farm Animals z Coloring Contest z Food on Weekends z School Field Trips z z
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Beautiful long-stemmed Pumpkins -- all sizes, varieties and colors. Gourds, decorative corn, and winter squash. Barn filled with Fall and Halloween flags, crafts and seasonal decorations.
Buy One Ride, Get One Free* On our popular "trackless" train.
*Train operates weekdays 3pm - dusk & weekends 9am - dusk Limit one per household. Valid with coupon through Oct. 31st, 2004
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Just 2 miles East of Downtown Clayton off Marsh Creek Road
October 8, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 7
Chain mail takes imagination and infinite patience TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Chain mail is Dennis Clouse’s passion. No, not those insipid, irritating “send this to 10 friends and be saved” chain mail. This chain mail, or maille, requires a pair of needle-nosed pliers, thousands and thousands of tiny metal rings and unlimited patience. Longtime Clayton resident Clouse has been making chain mail garments and jewelry since the early ‘70s. Most evenings, you can find him at Starbucks with a large coffee and his latest project spread across the table in front of him. Some say the Roman warriors first used chain mail in the centuries before Christ. Other sources claim that chain mail originated with the Celts. In
Photo courtesy of Dennis Clouse
THE CROWN for this Cleopatra costume has more than 3500 rings
either case, these metal rings were linked together to form a kind of metal “fabric,” which, when worn over leather
padding, created a very effective barrier against the slice of an enemy’s sword. Even after the introduction of plate armor in the 12th century, chain mail served to “fill in the gaps” where flexibility was important – around the armpits, neck and chin. It was lightweight and versatile, but very costly and labor intensive to make. Mail garments were so expensive that only the richest medieval knights could afford them. With the invention of the modern gun, chain mail armor was relegated to museums, which is where Clouse first began to get interested in the craft. After returning from Vietnam he became interested in European history and armor collections. One day, he looked at a chain mail loincloth and
October is Rett Syndrome Awareness Month Rett Syndrome is a neurological disorder seen almost exclusively in females. Girls with Rett Syndrome appear normal after birth, and develop normally until they are around 6-18 months old when their brain stops developing and they cease to acquire new skills. They also lose previously learned abilities. Losses include communication skills, purposeful use of their hands, and many other motor skills. These girls may also have epileptic seizures, curvature of the spine, irregular breathing
and pneumonia. The most severe handicap in RS is Apraxia. Most girls with RS show an intense desire to communicate through their eyes, gestures and body language. Their true intelligence is very difficult to measure. Many of the girls use communicative and augmentative boards and special computers at school. Research is ongoing and the future holds promise. For more information on Rett Syndrome, visit www.rettsyndrome.org or call 800-818-RETT.
thought, “I can make that.” Initially, Clouse made his own rings by wrapping steel wire around a steel rod to create a spiral, then clipping each loop to make a ring. But, with a single tunic, or hauberk, taking about 25,000 rings (Clouse connects only about 200-300 rings per hour) this process soon became way too tedious and time consuming for him. It didn’t take him long to find a source for machine made rings. Today, most of Clouse’s garments are commissioned for theme costume wear. He recently transformed a young woman into Cleopatra. The crown for this costume alone contains more than 3,500 brass rings, weighs about 2 pounds and took six months and “dozens of fittings” to complete. Working without a pattern, Dennis fits the garment as he works. “You have to go around corners and curves,” he explained. “You have to keep increasing and decreasing until it fits.” If you see him working in his Starbuck’s “studio” in the next week or so, he is probably finishing a medieval tunic, or hauberk. Historically, the hauberk was worn over leather padding to protect the chest and arms of a fighting warrior. With no war to fight, Dennis is mak-
ing his hauberk strictly for show. The piece will have more than 25,000 rings and will have taken him nearly 80 hours when complete. Will he sell it? “If I get bored with it, I will,” he said. How much? “I wouldn’t let this go for less than $750.” A steal, we say.
When not fitting rings together, Clouse is a programmer with the University of California. A Clayton resident since 1959, Clouse graduated from Clayton Valley High School in 1964. He has one daughter and two grandchildren.
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
DENNIS CLOUSE in his “studio” at Starbucks, assembles a medieval hauberk, or chain mail tunic Interest in making and wearing chain mail has been on the increase, both because of the proliferation of Renaissance Fairs and among teens, who make bracelets and collars.
Do you or someone you know have an interesting or unusual hobby? Call The Pioneer and we’ll help you share your passion. 672-0500
Advertorial
Photo courtesy of the Anderson family
AMANDA ANDERSON, 17 a Clayton resident, was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome just before her second birthday.
Fox and the Fiddle: new owner, new menu, new look JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
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visit Fox and the Fiddle on Main Street in Clayton. The restaurant has a new look and a new owner and chef, Greg Severn. The interior has a fresh new décor and a menu that carries a contemporary theme with items such as pan roasted Tai snapper with snow peas and butternut squash soup. Other menu specialties include blockcut ribeye, pork porterhouse, petite lamb rack and Hawaiian white tuna. There’s also a bar menu with lighter fare, an oyster Happy Hour Wednesday through Sunday, and specialty drinks such as sake and Soju cocktails plus beer and wine. Bread is made fresh at the restaurant. Severn was born and raised in the Bay Area and is a graduate of Clayton Valley High School. He went to San Francisco State University to study filmmaking, but found his real passion was food when he waited tables to pay for his education. He moved to New York
to work as sous chef for his friend who owned a restaurant there and later became a cook at Moose’s in North Beach in San
Jill Bedecarre/Clayton Pioneer CHEF Greg
OWNER AND Severn.
Francisco. Severn presents “a more contemporary take” on the Fox and Fiddle theme and designed his menu after entrees he enjoys.
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Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
Should I wait for spring to go on the market?
LYNNE FRENCH
REAL ESTATE
Some sellers are averse to having their home on the market over the holidays. However, depending on market conditions, this winter could be an opportune time to sell. The price you receive for
your home is in large part a function of supply and demand. The more homes like yours there are on the market, the more competition you have from other home sellers. When buyers have a good selection of homes to choose from, they tend to be more selective. It can take longer to sell, and prices may be discounted. When there is a scarcity of homes for sale — called a low inventory market — your chances of a quick sale at a high price are better. Buyers have less to choose from so they’re more willing to make compromises. Prices tend to rise as buyers compete with one another for the limited supply of homes available.
THE SELLING SEASON There is a seasonal aspect to the residential real estate market. Spring is usually the period of most intense sales activity. Unless there is a pressing need to sell, most sellers wait until April or May to list their homes for sale. The inventory of homes for sale usually drops off starting in November and doesn’t pick up again until spring. This period of low inventory can be a prime time for sellers who break with convention and list their homes during the winter months. OFF SEASON SELLING This year could provide an excellent opportunity for sellers who choose to list their homes when most sellers are thinking
of taking their homes off the market for the holidays. Interest rates have increased over 1/2 percent on home mortgages in the last two months. Rates could move higher before they stabilize. Buyers may continue to look through the holidays this year in order to get into a home before interest rates increase. One of the primary reasons sellers don’t like to market their homes over the holidays is that it’s inconvenient. Discuss your concerns with your real estate agent and work out a showing arrangement that you can live with. Insist that showings be by appointment only. This way you won’t have agents arriving with their buyers to see your home while you’re involved in holiday
activities. Lock boxes are often used to facilitate showings. Usually a lock box is secured to a doorknob or handrail. It contains your house key and is used by agents to show your home. To avoid being inconvenienced during the holidays, ask your agent to remove the lock box and leave it with you. When agents call you for an appointment to show your home, you can put the lock box on the front porch for them to use. RENT-BACK AGREEMENTS Moving over the holidays may be inconvenient. You can control when you deliver possession of your home to the buyer by negotiating a mutually satisfactory closing date. If the buyer
wants to close early in order to hold an interest rate, negotiate a rent-back provision that allows you to rent your home back from the buyer for a while after the closing. The first few months of the year can also be a great time to sell because inventories are almost always at their low point for the year then. During January and February, buyers were out in force in our area. Most of the relatively few sellers who did brave the winter market had a profitable selling experience. For any real estate needs or questions contact her at: Phone (925) 6728787 or E-mail: Lynne@LynneFrench.com
The wealth effect can tempt you into overspending Have you been spending more lately, even though your income has not gone up? Perhaps your property value has appreciated, your investment portfolio is on the rise, and you feel wealthier than you have in a quite a while. If so, you may be prompted to spend more money, even though your income hasn't increased. Economists call this the "wealth effect," a phenomenon that can sidetrack consumers from reaching their long-term financial goals. Typically, as investors see their retirement accounts and home equity improving, they feel better about putting more of their paycheck back into the economy. Economists estimate that consumer spending fuels
approximately two-thirds of the economy. According to the National Center for Policy Analysis, the
MURELEEN BENTON FINANCIAL SENSE rule of thumb is that for every dollar of increased wealth people accumulate, they spend an additional four cents. This
trend has been more obvious during the last two years, as Americans refinanced mortgages and took money out to finance home improvements and other projects. However, while the wealth effect may be good for the U.S. economy, it is typically not as healthy for the individual consumer. Sometimes it gives investors a false sense of security and a feeling of permission to increase spending beyond their means. HOME SWEET HOME This false sense of wealth often starts with the increased value of your home. However, because you live in your home, its appreciation should be considered differently than an increase in stock performance.
While you can sell stocks and bonds to capitalize on growth and rebalance your portfolio, your home is a roof over your head and shouldn't be treated the same. For example, you should not cash out the appreciation in your home until you are ready to make a major lifestyle change, such as downsizing for retirement or relocating to where prices are lower. As a result of wealth effect, some consumers may feel that it's time to invest in bigger homes because they are enjoying large appreciation in the value of their current investment. However, homeowners should beware of the higher costs associated with larger mortgages, such as maintenance, property taxes and liabil-
LOOKING FOR A CONTRACTOR YOU CAN TRUST TO DO QUALITY WORK? YOU’VE FOUND US! DAdditions DWindows/Doors DRemodeling DCrown Molding DDecks DSiding DOverhangs DTrim
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a t s o C trol a r t Con ite Con m r e T
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Furthermore, to accommodate increases in your current lifestyle, you may be taking money away from retirement savings, education planning and other long-term goals. In the end, the immediate wealth effect may contribute to investors losing sight of their strategic financial plans and jeopardizing their personal economy. THE BIG PICTURE Following are some tips to keep you thinking about the big picture and to help you avoid a detour as a result of the wealth effect: Balance your assets: Record-low interest rates may have pushed home prices up close to their limit. Many experts agree that it
is unlikely that the real estate market will double in price again over the next five years. If your home is the biggest part of your net worth, strive to get your assets in greater balance. Max out retirement savings: Before you buy a bigger home or make any large investments, make sure you are contributing the maximum amount allowed to your tax-free and taxdeferred accounts for retirement savings. The REIT choice: Historically, real estate, as an asset class, has underperformed equities. Indirect ownership of real estate by purchasing shares of a real estate investment trust
See Wealth, page 9
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HORSE BOARDING FACILITY. Property is 5+ acres, two almost new barns. One has 20 stalls, the other 10 (presently 9 as one doubles for a foaling stall), 12x12 box stalls w/12x24 attached paddocks, lighted stalls available. Turn Outs, Hot water wash rack, Outdoor arena and 2 outdoor 60 ft. round pens, completely lit 12x24 foaling/medical stall available, individual lockable tack rooms, 80x180 lighted covered arena, Hot walker and no mud.
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October 8, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 9
I’m on a slow and steady train down to Dufferville So, I’ve been working this short term, contract position in San Francisco since late May. It’s got me out of my wife’s hair for the summer, so if nothing else it’s been worth it for that alone. It’s also been nice to spend those summer days away from the “East Bay Sahara” and get back to where they consider 80 to be a hot day. I’m working for a litigation support company. I can’t tell you any thing more. It’s very
hush-hush. The danger is that if I told you any more, you might nod off and whack your head on something unforgivably hard. The boss is kind of an exhippie. She holds guided mediations in the conference room each Friday. Honest. Remember San Francisco? Think about it. Aside from maybe during the old dot.com days, how many employers allow you to lie on the floor or, if you so choose, scream into a
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towel for an hour each week? Not many, I’d wager. And I say never pass up the opportunity for an experience whereby I might make an ass of myself. Most of the folks I’ve been working with are in their mid 20s to early 30s. Think this has made me feel a wee bit seasoned? You bet your Polident it has. And while there is a definite generation gap, for the most part they’re nice kids. I notice that this particular group of youngsters is very free-spirited and happy, as opposed to the bitter and disenfranchised folks of my generation. Most of them are still single, contemplating law school or a move out of state to pursue other interests. No real ties seem to hold them down. They’re smart and happy. Collectively, they’ve done a lot of living, certainly more than I had at that age (or at my present age for that matter). One woman moved from Texas with her boyfriend when he landed a job at the San Francisco Chronicle. Another
young man went from bartending on a cruise ship in Hawaii for eight months to writing for reality TV in Los Angeles. Their generation seems to LIVE more, whereas I think members of my generation were, to a degree, still suffering the affects of the brainwashing that told us to go to college and find a job with a safe, stable company that offers good benefits. Unfortunately, those safe, stable companies are the same ones that have been laying us off in droves for the past three years. My somewhat advanced age shows in various subtle ways. The office is rather quiet as we’re all plinking away on our computers, so conversations are carried on in hushed tones. Unless, that is, if I happen to be involved in the conversation. I’ve had to explain, much to my embarrassment, that as you age you begin to grow more hair in your ears, which muffles the sound, and “would you mind speaking up just a little?”
Many listen to portable CD players while they work, and they will often swap CDs. However, I’ve noticed that no one is interested in borrowing my Boz Scaggs’ “Silk Degrees” CD. Yeah, that’s right, I’ve got the CD and anyone who knows
JOE ROMANO
SO ANYWAY the album knows that it’s pretty damn good and I stand by it. The kids though? Not interested. Nor were they much interested in my old Elvis Costello and Joe Jackson albums, I mean, CDs. Though in all honesty, I was not very eager to groove to the sounds of Saliva,
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so I guess it’s all good. As Friday morning slides into afternoon, discussions about after-work drinks and weekend outings begin to float around. And while I know that they are secretly envious that I get to make yet another excursion to Home Depot and will perhaps get the opportunity to clean my garage, they hide it well. I think they pity me, for while they know I may be deaf, I’m certainly not “def ” which probably isn’t even a “def ” term anymore, which further illustrates my descent into Dufferville. I will admit that while the job has not been ideal, I will miss my youthful co-workers when the assignment comes to an end and I arthritically grip my walker and shuffle off into the sunset.
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may be more viable for those seeking real estate investment alternatives. Diversify: Investing in several different types of individual funds or securities, commonly known as diversification, works hand in hand with asset allocation, or how you weigh your investments in different asset classes (stocks, bonds and money markets). Remember that as the return of one investment is rising, the return of another investment is most likely falling. Budget wisely: The more money you have or think you have, the more important it is to live within a budget. A written budget allows you to track where your money goes and can help you free up cash for savings and long-term goals. Have a plan: Get help from a qualified financial advisor, who can help you create a comprehensive financial plan to assist you in strategically reaching your long- and short-term goals. This information is provided for informational purposes only. The information is intended to be generic in nature and should not be applied or relied upon in any particular situation without the advice of your tax, legal and/or your financial advisor. The views expressed may not be suitable for every situation.
Mureleen Benton is a Certified Financial Planner. Call her with questions at 685-4523
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Page 10
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
Vent-free appliances are practical and economical One of the today's most sought-after home amenities is a working fireplace. But many homes have no fireplace, some have a fireplace that doesn't work, and some have woodburning fireplaces that work fine but are considered just too much trouble to use. Now many home remodelers believe they have found a practical and economical answer -- the vent-free gas fireplace. The defining benefit of a vent-free gas product is that there's no need for venting, a hole-in-the-wall or a chimney - only access to a natural gas or propane supply line. That means the homeowner can affordably install an irresistible and captivating hearth just about anyplace he or she wants in the home. Vent-free gas fireplaces, logs, inserts, stoves and space heaters are now being used for 99 percent efficient supple-
mental heating in more than 15 million American homes. Because most vent-free gas products do not require electricity, they can also provide emergency heating during power failures. VENT-FREE APPLIANCE TRENDS As more and more vent-free gas products find their way into America's households, new trends are emerging in the way consumers include vent-free products in their home remodeling projects. For example, increasing numbers of homeowners are now using vent-free gas logs in masonry and woodburning fireboxes. Because vent-free products do not require a flue, chimney or vent, their installation is an especially cost-effective home improvement. Another useful emerging trend for the home remodeler
is the super-sized vent-free fireplace. Homeowners are increasingly opting for expansive gathering rooms in their homes. To satisfy this growing demand, several manufacturers have recently introduced ventfree gas logs that are 36 inches or more in length. These spectacular logs are often paired with large vent-free fireboxes that are 50 inches or more in breadth and proportionately tall. The result is a super-sized, alluring hearth that provides 99 percent efficient heat and saves money by zone heating, whereby you can lower the home's thermostat and still enjoy safe and instant heating in the room(s) you are using. Virtually all vent-free products come with an optional remote control; all remotes can be hand-held and some can be wall-mounted. Today, many homeowners are looking for a solution to "remotitis," that is,
the proliferation of remote controls cluttering up the room. With remotes for the TV, VCR, DVD player, satellite unit and other appliances, some homeowners feel that the last thing they need is another hand-held remote control to get buried or lost. Consumers are solving this problem with their vent-free gas heating appliance's remote by mounting it on a wall, where the temperature can be preset and the unit controlled quickly and easily. Yet another remodeling trend is the installation of ventfree gas fireplaces outdoors. Homeowners are taking advantage of the extremely efficient heating of vent-free fireplaces to cozy up their backyard decks and patios and even city terraces and rooftops. Outdoor fireplaces extend the use of decks and pools during seasonal changes. Many outdoor vent-
appropriate to his or her region. There's also a choice of log types, such as split oak and solid pieces of wood, as well as glowing embers. This year, homeowners seeking something a little different can even install a realistic set of coals in a gas-fired coal basket. Get a free copy of the newly updated Consumer Guide to Vent-Free Gas Products at www.ventfree.org. Consumers can find out where to purchase a vent-free appliance in their area by visiting www.ventfree.org. Source: Metro Editorial
free fireplaces feature full firebox openings and stainless steel construction, and they all add a stylish and comforting touch that turns an outdoor spot into a beautiful retreat. APPLIANCES FOR ANY DECOR Especially attractive to homeowners is that vent-free products come in an enormous selection of styles, sizes and colors to suit any home decor. Gas logs are available in a variety of styles in woods, including driftwood, oak, weathered oak, maple, pine, aspen, birch and many others. The homeowner can select a wood that's
Purchase or Refinance contact
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Fall season furnace maintenance SHERI DICKSON Special to the Pioneer
Another month has flown by, and fall has officially arrived. I think we have even experienced some of those autumn days, although summer keeps creeping in from time to time. I have put away all the summer house decorations and am slowly getting the house ready for the next season. Don't you just love the smell of that brisk morning air and then seeing all those pumpkins at the pumpkin farm and grocery store? Soon the leaves will start to change, and the holidays are right around the corner. In order to get ready for next season, you should consider a few housekeeping chores. When is the last time you changed your filter or at least checked it? Has it been done in the last 60 days? If not,
consider doing it now. Then if necessary, clean it or replace it before it gets plugged. Whether you have a washable, electronic or disposable filter, they will all get full of dirt and particles if they are not changed or cleaned on a regular basis. Your equipment will work harder, be less efficient, and you could notice a higher utility bill. Next on your list, consider having your furnace routinely serviced so that you are prepared to run it efficiently once the temperature starts to drop. These two steps should always be considered in order to keep your furnace in good working order. When phoning to set up an appointment, ask what the technician will do on the call and ask how long the job will take. A good service company will thoroughly go through your equipment and make any recommendations that they feel
are necessary. In addition, have them check out your hot water heater to make sure it is in safe condition. We perform this service to all of our customers as a courtesy and part of our furnace maintenance because most consumers do not think about the safety of their hot water heater unless they have had a problem. Undetected problems might be disclosed upon performing this maintenance, so it is wise to have it checked out now, before it gets cold and your equipment breaks down. If the cost of performing the maintenance seems relatively inexpensive, you are probably not getting the service you deserve, and they may try to sell you on replacing your equipment. If you are not having any problems with your equipment and your energy costs seem to be in line,
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October 8, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 11
When buying a home, read that termite report A "termite" report is technically called a "Wood Destroying Pest and Organisms Inspection Report." This report is required by a lender for real estate transactions from a licensed Structural Pest Control company. While it is for the protection of the lender's investment on the loan for the property, it also gives protection to the buyer. Since the termite report, along with the Home Inspection Report, is the buyer's best source of information about the condition of the home, it is important to fully understand the findings listed. THE INSPECTION REPORT Structural pest control companies are licensed by the state of California, use a standardized form and are regulated more closely than general contractors. The inspection report identifies wood destroying organisms such as different species of termites, fungus and dry rot, wood boring beetles, carpenter ants, excessive moisture conditions and more. When active infestation or infection is noted, the condition is identified in the report as a Section 1 item. The cost for fixing such items is usually the responsibility of the seller. Any structure that abuts or is attached to the main house must also be inspected unless otherwise specified by the seller or
their agent. An inspection will also identify any condition present that, while not yet damaging any
LARRY DOMINA HOME WORK wood, is likely to lead to problems in the future. Such a condition could be a leaky toilet or tub or sink drain that is wetting wood but has not yet caused a fungus or dry rot infection. When the outside grade is higher than the top of the house foundation, known as a faulty grade condition, these areas can also be a potential for problems. All such conditions are labeled as Section 2 items. DO IT NOW OR LATER? Before the 1980s, both actual and potential conditions were labeled Section 1. Every recommendation listed in the termite report was required to be completed before the lender would close escrow. The change to
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Section 1/Section 2 conditions was made at the request of the Board of Realtors to the Structural Pest Control Board of California. Today, only Section 1 items are required by the lender. Most financial institutions require that both the inspection and all Section 1 corrective work be completed prior to the close of Escrow. Section 2 items are left to the discretion of the seller and buyer. Because they are not a requirement, most sellers and buyers will opt not to do the work. The buyer should be very aware of work that was actually done and work that was recommended but not done. As often happens, unless conditions are corrected, Section 2 items often will grow into damaged conditions that become the liability of the new owner. It is in the interest of the buyer to have some Section 2 work done. As an example, a few years back, I did an inspection of a property in the Orinda hills
with an enormous hillside deck attached to the house. The numerous support posts were sunk into the hill in a fenceposttype manner. They were in earth/wood contact and were labeled as Section 2 items because no damage was evident, but I knew that it was probably inevitable. Four years later, when the house was put back on the market, these posts were now damaged from the years of earth/wood contact. New posts were needed, and many thousands of dollars of damage were now the new owner's responsibility to correct. A small amount of Section 2 work had become very expensive Section 1 work. READ THE REPORT If the buyer had taken the time to read the report carefully, and understood all the recommended work and the reason for the recommendations, this costly situation would have been averted. With all the paperwork generated in buying a home, an
Club News The Pioneer wants to know what’s happening in your local service club. Send your news items to the Clayton Pioneer, PO Box 1246, Clayton 94517 or e-mail beth@claytonpioneer.com ROTARY CLUB OF CLAYTON VALLEY/CONCORD SUNRISE The Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise meets each Thursday, 7 am, for breakfast at the Oakhurst Country Club. The club consists of 50 business and professional men and women that make up the membership. Members live in Clayton, Concord, Antioch, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Oakland and Walnut Creek. Clayton Valley Rotary is part of a worldwide organization of more than 33,000 Rotary clubs with 1.2 million members in 164 countries around the world. Rotary is an important nongovernmental, non-religious, non-political service organiza-
tion serving humanitarian goals in the world. The Rotary motto, "Service Above Self" encompasses what we are all about. The Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise was chartered in May 1987 and locally serves Clayton and the Clayton Valley area of Concord. The club is involved in many projects around the world but has some projects that are important in the local community too. Here are just a few. Camp Royal (youth leadership): Camp Royal is located in the Trinity Alps near Hayfork, CA. It is a weeklong, summer camp, leadership training experience for juniors (to be seniors) high school students. It invites sev-
eral motivational speakers and community leaders to speak and teach during the week. Volunteer Rotarian pilots fly speakers in and out of the Hayfork airport. Clayton Library Foundation: Each week the regular speakers at our club sign and donate a book that is donated to the Clayton Library in lieu of a speaker's gift. The club provides the books at the direction of the Clayton Librarian then completes the process by giving the book to the library. Dictionary Project (dictionaries provided to local 3rd graders): This is a major project for our club. We provide a hard cover, quality, dictionary to 3rd graders in several schools in the area. This book retails for $20 and is part of the Rotary Literacy Program. For more information about the Rotary Club of Clayton Valley /Concord Sunrise visit www.claytonvalleyrotary.org or call Chuck Graham at 925 6897640.
conditions that they missed. We'll explore this more in upcoming columns. After doing any kind of work on a property, all termite companies are required to issue a "Notice of Work Completed and Not Completed." Sellers and agents get copies of this report. Be an informed buyer and always request copies of all paperwork issued by a termite company for the house you are purchasing. When choosing a termite company, a referral from a friend or neighbor is the best way to begin. Always make sure they are a member of the professional organization, The Pest Control Operators of California. This organization has an arbitration service that can usually be of great help if you have any problems with the company you've chosen.
Larry Domina is the owner of the Contra Costa Termite Control Company in Concord. He can be reached at 925-680-7665.
CLAYTON BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION The CBCA is sponsoring a Candidate's Forum on October 28 at their membership meeting at Oakhurst Country Club. Dinner begins a 7 p.m. followed by the forum featuring the four candidates for the Clayton City Council. Candidates will be asked to respond to questions compiled by the association. CBCA is also gearing up for the holiday season with a host of activities including Christmas decorations for the downtown area on November 20, tree lighting ceremony on December 4 followed by the associations annual Christmas Party, and a visit from Mrs. Claus on December 11. The CBCA was formed in 1984 and has grown to over 130 members. The association is active in the community with fundraisers like the Art and Wine Festival in May, Oktoberfest in the fall and other activities including scholarship programs, golf tournament and contributions to many community endeavors.
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agent may or may not take the time to explain all items of the termite report. It is ultimately the liability and responsibility of the buyer. I can't stress enough to both buyers and their agents how important it is to read the report thoroughly. Carefully consider what the Section 2 information is and what the liabilities will be if this corrective work is not done. The termite inspector labels an area as Section 2 because they see a problem that should be addressed, not ignored. I'm often asked, "How long is your report good for?" The findings listed on the report are "good" for only the date of the inspection. There is no length of time with an expiration date for a termite report. It is strictly a report of conditions that existed on the day the inspection was made. A termite company is not liable for any condition that develops after the date of the original inspection. They may be liable, however, for any adverse
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Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
Clayton Sports Newly Named CVHS Stadium Opens for Homecoming JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
This Friday, Oct. 8, CVHS will play their first football game on the new artificial field turf against a tough Liberty High school team. The game will help determine where the Eagles stand this year in the BVAL and in their pursuit of an NCS berth. It will also be Homecoming for CVHS and a larger than normal crowd is
expected to be present for the special festivities that will be in store for the fans, the students and alumni alike. Alumni have played a special role in refurbishing the CVHS stadium over recent years. At its September meeting, the Mt. Diablo Unified School District School Board approved naming the staduim "Gonsalves Stadium" in honor of Steve and Debra Gonsalves, alumni who have sponsored
many of the improvements made to the stadium including the artificial field turf. The track and field turf project was completed quickly. According to Pat Middendorf, CVHS Girls Athletic Director, it was only 15 months ago that she and Steve Gonsalves first discussed the idea of a new field and track. The Committee that actually worked on designing and funding the project met for the first time in
Senior Championship Golf Tourney held at Oakhurst C.C. JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
THE NEW CVHS STADIUM is named in honor of major donors, Steve and Debra Gonsalves, shown here at the groundbreaking.
The 2004 Senior Championship was played at Oakhurst Country Club on Saturday September 25. The annual Oakhurst Men's Club Senior Championship is an individual net and gross scoring event and it features 6,283 yards of Oakhurst's many challenges as played from the gold tees.
FREE CLAYTON VALLEY PONY FALL BASEBALL CLINICS Fall baseball clinics will be held at the Tessoro Sports fields off Route 4 each Saturday through October 30 between noon and 3 p.m. for 11-14 year old players. Clinics will cover baseball fundamentals as well as advanced instruction in pitching, hitting, fielding and throwing. There will be no charge for these clinics. For details or more information please contact: Tom King (925) 6857452, Tim Bruno (925) 672-2992 or Bob Mazza (925) 672-8874.
lt Adu Softball
FALL SPORTS PROGRAMS AT THE CLAYTON/CONCORD BRANCH OF THE YMCA Start dates for Adult Sports (Ages 18 +), Clayton Community Gym at Diablo View Middle School Coed 5 on 5 Flag Football-Oct. 10 5 on 5 men's basketball (Sundays) - Nov. 7 Sign up today at www.mdrymca.org or call 889-1625. Got Sport Shorts? Let us know what is happening in local sports. Drop off the details about upcoming events and sporting activities at the Pioneer office or send e-mail to sports@claytonpioneer.com
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Stebbins with a four-under-par 68. Other top finishers were: Jerry Sugimura - (par) 72; Dave Brunton - (par) 72; Raja Toke -
73; Larry Sheppard - 73; John Wong - 73; Tom Keehbauch 74; Marlen Lawson - 75; and 6 players who tied for ninth place with net 76 scores: Jim Bennett, Chuck Becker, Jerry Erben, Ed Lexon, Peter Goodman and Bill Whelan. Following its tradition the Men's Club recognized a player's higher finish in either the gross or the net scoring (but not both) for final placing.
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Sports Shorts CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME CVHS Eagles host Liberty at home on new field at 7 p.m. Fri., Oct. 8.
This year in the gross stroke play Bill Whelan won the Championship with a score of 82. Tied for second place were Doug Murphy and Chuck Becker each with scores of 83. They were followed by a tie for fourth place between Enoch Turner and Geoff Stebbins who both shot 86. In the net scoring results (after adjusting for handicap), the champion was Geoff
September 2003. Great sponsorship and a lot of cooperation brought the project home in record time. "This project has been completed in a miraculously short time," said Middendorf. "Now, comes the fun part!" The field will be officially dedicated at a grand opening ceremony during a football game on Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. when the CVHS Eagles' will host the Antioch Panthers.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
Clayton Sports The world is Bocce Buzzards take gold in end getting flatter of season CBF league playoffs JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
"There is nothing like playoff bocce," says Ed Hartley, President of the Clayton Bocce Federation. "That may not be enough for ESPN, but it was still exciting!" The League began their playoffs on Sept. 12 and played the final championship game on Sept. 19. The teams that finished in the top eight places in the regular season standings began the playoffs in the quarterfinals. Those teams and their regular season results were:
Team
Won Lost Pct.
I Vincitori . . . . . . .23 Members Only . . .21 Downtown Bocce 20 On A Roll . . . . . . .21 Bada Bing . . . . . . .19 Bocce Buzzards . .19 Over The Hill . . . .17 Bada Bang . . . . . . .17
. . . .10 . . . . .0.697 . . . .12 . . . . .0.636 . . . .13 . . . . .0.606 . . . .15 . . . . .0.583 . . . .14 . . . . .0.576 . . . .17 . . . . .0.528 . . . .16 . . . . .0.515 . . . .16 . . . . .0.515
PF
PA
. . .336 . . . . .275 . . .326 . . . . .252 . . .332 . . . . .276 . . .344 . . . . .328 . . .308 . . . . .284 . . .316 . . . . .315 . . .312 . . . . .315 . . .289 . . . . .278
The quarterfinal contests were determined by the first place team playing the eighth place team, second against seventh and so on. Then throughout the remaining playoffs, the highest remaining team would play the lowest remaining team, etc. The playoff results were as follows: QUARTERFINALS: Downtown Bocce defeated Over The Hill by a score of 2-0. Bada Bang - 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Members Only - 0 I Vincitori - 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bada Bing - 1 Bocce Buzzards - 2 . . . . . . . . . .On A Roll - 1 SEMIFINALS
BOCCE BUZZARDS Will Weiss, Ray Vogt , Frank, Roger Wunderling, Roger Haserot, Ed O'Neil, and Ron Harris. (Not pictured, Bruce Millar, Tom Petrich, and Chuck Wright)
THIRD PLACE MATCH I Vincitori - 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Downtown Bocce - 1 CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH Bocce Buzzards - 2 . . . . . . . . . .Bada Bang - 1 So, the 2004 Clayton Bocce League medalists are: Gold: Bocce Buzzards Silver: Bada Bang Bronze: I Vincitori It was interesting that the sixth place team during the season took the playoff championship this year and that the eighth place team came in second. The Bocce Buzzards will have their name engraved on the League's perpetual trophy, which next year the League hopes to hang at their own courts right here in Clayton.
Bada Bang - 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Downtown Bocce - 0 Bocce Buzzards - 2 . . . . . . . . . .I Vincitori - 0
mine some months back. I remember he was an excellent ball striker and I really only had to "tweak" him a little to get him back on track. He sees me, walks up and says, "David, by any chance did you find a golf swing floating around behind you today, because I lost mine?" He had just played in his last match for the club championship and said the pressure was deafening to him-even though the day before, in a practice round, he had shot even par.
“Please, don't shop on price; you'll likely get an inferior product with a shorter lifespan...As the saying goes, ‘Buy it cheap, buy it twice.’” Will Claney
Golf under pressure? Just relax! Webster defines pressure as: strain; tension over press; rushing as to make the wrong move. The strain and pressure of competitive golf, whether in a tournament or in the Saturday morning skins game, can cause our golf swing to become one wrong move after another. One afternoon after playing golf with friends, I stopped at the 19th hole for a little libation. My eye caught a man walking into the pro shop looking rather distraught. I recognized him as a student of
The way we view the computer world is changing from CRT (cathode ray terminal) to flat panel, and the changes are accelerating as the price, performance and features continue to improve. Flat panel monitors are creating new viewing trends as they become the prevailing rage. Flat panels are the latest must-have product for every new computer purchase or upgrade, but determining which one to buy is harder than it was for the lowly CRT. So many choices, ranging from TFT to Plasma display, and so many specifications, from viewing angles to pixel counts, make choosing the best price performance demanding. Flat panels out-perform their older CRT cousins in a number of exciting ways, from performance features to size. CRTs are large, bulky and consume gobs of power in comparison to the flat panel. CRTs did have the upper edge with screens in excess of 19 inches, but not anymore. The flat panel is better looking, has less bulk, uses about the equivalent of half of a 60-watt light bulb of power and is quicker, brighter
The gist of this is if he had teed it up that morning, being in the mindset of just another stroll in the park, he just might have had his name on the trophy. The recent Ryder Cup comes to my mind. The Europeans play us, and can't wait to belly up to the bar for a brewsky when the match is through. The Americans can't wait to get to the locker room so they can change their underwear! Folks-this is the gospelwe just put too much pressure on ourselves. How about this thought. I think John Daly should be captain for the Americans every Ryder Cup. He'll have our guys staying in a trailer park close to the course. His menu will consist of fried chicken, BBQ ribs, corn on the cob and Roseanne Bar dancing around the campfire in a thong. And you can forget the Crown Royal; it'll be Regal Select with a rebate coupon.
Not that's relaxing, baby! If our best tour players have to relax and have fun to win, then so do you. That tro-
DAVE GRAY GRAY ON GOLF phy, that $20 bucks, win or lose, is not your right leg. It's just another stroll in the park. Dave Gray is a teaching professional at Diablo Creek Golf Course in Concord. E-mail your questions or comments to him at sports@claytonpioneer.com
and more brilliant. Flat panels give you more viewing space than their CRT counterparts. For example, a specification of 17 inches on a CRT yields between 15.1 inches and 16 inches of true screen size because CRTs measure part of the corners of the curved surface hidden behind the plastic cover. Flat panels, on the other hand, have no curved surfaces, so the user gets a full 17 inches (diagonal). Flat panels have come a long way in resolution and view angles, as well. Here are some important specifications to keep in mind when choosing your next monitor. Stick with the TFT or active matrix monitors and skip the plasma for now. The most important specifications are brightness, pixel pitch, contrast ratio, resolution and viewing angles. In my opinion, brightness, contrast ratio and view angles are the most important specifications. You could limit your search to these and still do well. Pixel pitch is stated in millimeters (mm), and nothing above .297 should be considered. Smaller is better, so .294 is better and .290 better still. This
measurement determines the sharpness of the picture or text at the edges, also known as the
WILL CLANEY TECH TALK “jaggies.” Brightness is stated by a number such as 250 cd/m2, with a larger number indicating a brighter screen. Brighter is better, and nothing less than 250 cd/m2 is acceptable. View angle indicates how far off center one can sit and still clearly see the screen. You may have experienced the screen view evaporate when trying to view from the side. This is view angle and should be 75 degrees or better. The larger number the better, so 85 degrees is good, but 140 degrees is superb. If you work in a brightly lit room, you’ll be concerned with contrast ratio of 450 to 1 or higher. The larger number is better, so 500 is better than 450, and 600 is fabulous. Resolution is important for those doing very fine or detailed work like engineering drawings or detailed photo work. Here, resolution is similar to the CRT and stated as 640x480 for basic viewing, 800x600 for general Internet viewing, 1024x768 for picture viewing and 1280x1024 for detailed viewing that engineers may need. Generally, flat panels don’t “flicker” like CRTs do, so the refresh rate isn’t very important, but anything above 60 Hz is good. Please, don’t shop on price; you’ll likely get an inferior product with a shorter lifespan. Some of the Costco products, for example, have two-year spans when the standard for flat panels is four to six years. As the saying goes, “Buy it cheap, buy it twice.” There are numerous good manufacturers with names you’ve heard and some you haven’t. My best picks are BenQ (say: ben then que), Impressions, LG Electronics, Samsung, ADI and Viewsonic, depending on your particular needs or wants. Get advice from a licensed BEAR (California licensed: Bureau of Electronics and Appliance Repair) professional if you’re unsure — don’t trust the salesperson’s agenda. Good luck, and great viewing. Will Claney is the owner and operator of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-672-9989.
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Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., OCT. 11 FOR THE OCT. 22 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT FALL YMCA Adult and Youth programs @ Clayton Community Gym Adult programs include flag football, ultimate kickball and volleyball. Youth sports programs include flag football, soccer and cheerleading. Sign up at www.mdrymca.org or call 889-1625. Clayton Community Gym 700 Gym Court, Clayton. THRU
ONGOING Art at the YMCA @ Clayton Community Gym Art program starts at the YMCA - sculpture, painting, drawing for beginners, advanced drawing.and Children's books, writing illustrating and publishing. For information contact instructor Seth Ahonen at 889-1612 or 889-1600. ONGOING After School Programs @ Clayton Community Gym 3-6 p.m., After school program for Diablo View Middle students. Homework help, sports and art activities. Fun, safe environment. Call Liz Travers for information at 889-1600. Clayton Community Gym, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton. ONGOING Dance Classes @ Clayton Community Church Wednesdays 4:30 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. Dance Technique Class, ages 8-adult, a fun multi-level dance class open to the community, $5 per class. Fridays 5:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m., Devotion in Motion, Pilates-based body-spirit mat exercise class for adult women, free. Wednesdays 4 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Praise Dance Class, ages 4-7, Free. Clayton Community Church, 6055 Main Street, Clayton OCT 5 - NOV. 16 Road Trip! Teens Read 2004 @ Clayton Community Library Read 15 hours to complete the journey. For grades 6-12. Prizes for all finishers- Carl’s Jr. coupon, classic car keychain, paperback book, Exploratorium guest pass, Blackhawk Automobile Museum Pass. All finishers will also be entered into a countywide drawing to win one of 1,600 additional prizes. See librarian for details. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. OCT. 2, 3, 9, 10 Voter Registration at St. Bonaventure St.Bonaventure will provide voter registration services after each mass. 55562 Clayton road, Concord. OCT. 8, 15, 22, 29 Digital Thunder Bowling @ Clayton Valley Bowl 4-6 p.m. Bowling on Friday afternoons for kids includes music, lights and bumper lanes. 689-4631, Clayton Valley Bowl, 5300 Clayton Road, Concord. OCT. 12, 19, 26 Patty Cakes Story Time @ Clayton Community Library 11-11:20 a.m. Story time for birth to 3 years, through October. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, 673-0659 OCT. 14, 21, 28 Picture Book Time @ Clayton Community Library 11-11:25 a.m. Picture book time for 3 to 5 year olds, through October. Child may attend without parent. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton, 673-0659 OCT. 9 Pasta Dinner for World Youth Day 6 p.m - 9 p.m. Knights of Columbus pasta dinner to raise funds for young adults to attend World Youth Day 2005 in Cologne Germany 8/11-21/2005. Adults $10, Child $6, family of 4 $30. Salad, pasta, garlic bread and dessert. For more information contact Claire Tryon 673-8564, or grey_eototo@msn.com. OCTOBER 15 St. Bonaventure Golf Tournament @ Boundary Oaks 1 p.m. Annual golf Tournament sponsored by St. Bonaventure Men's Spiritual Network. $95 Contribution per player includes 18 holes golf with cart, full course dinner and more. Contact Brian Gunderson at 673-5039 for information. Boundary Oaks Golf Course, Walnut Creek. OCT. 16 YMCA 24th Anual Boosters Event "Blackjack & Blues" Dinner & Auction @ Concord Hilton 5 p.m. - Midnight. Auction benefits youth in Contra Costa County. Enjoy casino gaming and jazz and blues music. Ganes include blackjack, craps, roulette and slots. Bid on over 200 silent auction items. Tickets are $125/person, $225/couple, or $1,100 for table of ten. RSVP by Oct. 1 to 609-9622, e-mail tking@mydrymca.org. Concord Hilton, 1970 Diamond Blvd., Concord.
OCT. 16 Chances for Children Flea Market & Antique Gift Sale St. Bonaventure Catholic community in Concord is sponsoring a flea market and antique/gift sale Saturday, October 16 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Anyone can rent a booth to sell high quality items. Or you can donate antiques and high quality items for sale by St. Bonaventure at the antique/gift sale adjacent to the flea market. Proceeds benefit St. Mary's Mission Hospital in Nairobi, Africa and a new school for a poor barrio in El Salvador. What a great opportunity to clear out those quality items from your house, make some money, and help some less fortunate people. For more information call St. Bonaventure at (925) 672-5800. OCT. 16, 17 Clayton Library Foundation Semi-Annual Used Book Sale 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat., 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. Sun. Gigantic used book sale to benefit the Clayton Community Library. Most books only $1. Library Foundation members only preview Friday, Oct. 15, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Books sell for 1/2 price Sun. 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. OCT. 16, 17 Fall Fest @ Todos Santos Plaza Sat. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sun. 11a.m. - 6 p.m. Free admission. Great entertainment, arts and crafts, food, beer, wine, margaritas, huge kids area and car show. Sponsored by the Concord Chamber of Commerce, Todos Santos Plaza, Concord. OCT. 19 Free Grandparents photo event @ Diamond Terrace Retirement Community 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free Open House and photo event by Graham Family Photo. RSVP by calling (925) 672-1363. Diamond Terrace Retirement Community, 6401 Center Street, Clayton. EXTENDED FROM OCT. 21 - 30 Seussical @ CTA Crossroads Theatre Seussical creates the witty, wild and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss as it has never been seen before. This story, not just for kids. Weds. Oct. 27 8 p.m., Thurs. Oct. 14, 21, 28 Fri. 8 p.m., Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29, 8 P.M., Sat. 2 p.m. Oct. 9, 16, 23,30, Oct. 9, 16, 23, 30, 8 P.M. $22-$25 per person, Tickets at CTA Crossroads Theatre , (925) 944-0597 , www.ctacrossroads.org, CTA Crossroads Theatre, 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek. OCT. 28 Ballot Initiative Presentation by League of Women Voters @ St. Bonaventure Church 7:30 p.m. Pro/Con forum on the Nov. 2 ballot initiatives. The League of Women Voters will present all sixteen initiatives in a non-partisan format. Large Hall, St. Bonaventure Church, Concord. Oct. 31 Clayton Halloween Parade, Main Street, Downtown Clayton 4 p.m. Bring little ones in costume and get in the mood for Halloween before you go out to trick- or-treat! Parade around downtown Clayton. Oct. 31 24 Annual Ghost Walk- Downtown Clayton 8 p.m. Begins and ends at Endeavor Hall. Led by Richard Taylor. Costumes are optional. Bring a flashlight for a tour of 12 stops around downtown Clayton with appearances by 3 guest celebrity ghosts! Suitable for all ages. All those who complete the walk receive certificate. Call Richard Taylor at 672-6171 for more information.
OCT. 12 Clayton Valley Woman’s Club @ Holy Cross Lutheran Church 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Business meeting, guests welcome. Refreshments served. Call Lois 685-1876 or Jackie 672-8103 for information. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Ygnacio Valley Road & Alberta Way, Concord. OCT. 14, 21, 21 Weight Watchers Weekly Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau 10 a.m., 5 & 6:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in and meeting on Thursday. 800/326-8450 x2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. OCT. 14, 21, 28 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker.www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. OCT. 24 Knights of Columbus Membership Drive @ St. Bonaventure Church. Membership drive will be held at the 7a.m. 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. masses. Members of the Knights will be present to answer questions about the Knights and their services to the community. The Knights of Columbus are a fraternal group of Catholic men committed to serving the needs of the Concord and Clayton communities through the Concord Council. For information call Jack Kavanagh, 687-8039 or Sumner Peery at 827-0916. St. Bonaventure Church. 5562 Clayton Road, Concord.
BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT OCT. 12, 26 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 6737304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. OCT. 12, 19, 26 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. OCT. 14 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 6737304, Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail, Clayton. OCT. 19 Clayton City Council Meeting@ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Open to the public. Agendas posted at the following locations: City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, Ohm’s Bulletin Board, 1028 Diablo St., Clayton, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton.
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS
OCT. 19 Parent Faculty Club (PFC) Meeting, @ Mt. Diablo Elementary 7 p.m. Please join us and help make a difference! Child care is provided for this event. If you would like to have a specific item included on the agenda, please contact Rosy Straka at rosystraka@yahoo.com or 672-3200. 7304. Mt. Diablo Elementary.
OCT. 8 AARP, Mt. Diablo Chapter @ Pleasant Hill Senior Center 1 p.m. Four part harmony group from 1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Meeting follows with presentation by Barbara Gearhart, Branch Director of Nightingale of Contra Costa, speaking about educated choices in health care for seniors. For information call Fred Nelson, 4511292. Pleasant Hill Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill.
ONGOING - DEC. 2 Adult Education Class @ Mt. Diablo Adult Education Thursdays 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m. Room B-1. Building Healthy Families, an informative series of classes to discuss topics relevant to parenting today. $5 per class or $35 for all 8 classes. Childcare provided for ages 18 months and up for an additional fee. Join at any time. Mt. Diablo Adult Education, 1266 San Carlos Avenue, Concord, 685-7340.
OCT. 12 Diablo Valley Lioness @ Back Forty Restaurant Diablo Valley Lioness meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month. Help plan community fundraising events. For more information call Lisa King, President at 330-1260. Back Forty Restaurant, 1918 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill.
ONGOING - NOV. 1 Adult Education Class @ Mt. Diablo Adult Education Mondays 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. Room B-1. Preschool power struggles. Learn how to turn these trying times into a rewarding growth period for both parent and child. $10 per class. Childcare provided for ages 18 months and up for an additional fee. Join at any time. Mt. Diablo Adult Education, 1266 San Carlos Avenue, Concord, 6857340.
The Community Calendar is sponsored by
T H E VA N F L E E T- B R O N S O N T E A M Personal Service Makes The Difference
1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Suite D, Clayton 94517; Phone (925) 672-4333 www.CallTheVanFleetTeam We are proud to support the Children's Miracle Network, an alliance of premier hospitals in North America. The Children's Miracle Network treats over 17 million children each year for cancer, pediatric AIDS, muscular dystrophy, heart disease, leukemia, sickle cell anemia, asthma and accident trauma.
IN SUPPORT OF THIS COMPASSIONATE CAUSE, THE VAN FLEET-BRONSON TEAM WILL MAKE A DONATION on behalf of our client for EVERY TRANSACTION CLOSED BY OUR OFFICE.
October 8, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
Clayton Community Church welcomes new pastor TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
Clayton Community Church has added a second pastor to its staff, announced Pastor Shawn Robinson last week. Scott Downing and his wife Janet arrived from Phoenix earlier this month where he was a pastor in the Assembly of God Church. As Pastor of Life Development in the rapidly growing Clayton church, Downing will work with the small faith groups teaching leadership training for those interested in mentoring others. “My job covers many ministries and I’m here to broaden what the church is already doing, not to
fix anything.” One area of special interest is the marriage ministry and he will be training mature couples to work with younger couples during the early years of marriage or during crisis times. Downing will also fill in as a preacher, describing his preaching style as more “teaching than preaching.” He described his goal for the next six months as one of listening – “to hear the hearts and the visions of the people already working in ministries,” he said. Downing was drawn to Clayton Community Church because of its commitment to the community. “There’s a specific sense of identity when you come into this town,” he said. He is excited about continuing
Church News CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH W.O.W. (Women of the Word) Bible Study group for women meets every Wed., 9:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at Clayton Community Church, 6055 Main Street, Clayton. We will be studying the book of Ephesians Sept. 22 – Dec. 8. Childcare is available. Join us for worship Sundays 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. at Diablo View Middle School. Children’s programs at both gatherings, Jr. & Sr. High meet at 10:45. Call 673-9060 for more information. CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Sun. Oct.10 is likely to be a turning point for Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church. The congregation has been without a fulltime pastor since Rev. Linda Regan retired in Sept. 2002. At the 10:30 am service, the Rev. Patricia Stout Plymale will preach, and at a special congregational meeting after the service members will vote on whether to call her as pastor. If the vote is affirmative, and the Presbytery of San Francisco concurs, she will begin her duties in November. If called, Rev. Plymale will be the fifth installed pastor of the church, which began meeting in 1957 in a garage on the site on Kirker Pass Road the church has occupied
to work toward “establishing a real clarified purpose throughout the church, celebrating what it is to be part of this town.” Clayton Community Church was started in 1995 by current pastor, Shawn Robinson with about 300 members. The growing church now has nearly 1000 members. Robinson is excited about the addition of Downing to the staff. “Scott brings the missing piece that completes our team. I believe he will be used by God to help the people of this community discover the depth of Jesus Christ’s love,” he said. Downing was raised in San Leandro and he and his wife are glad to be back in the Bay Area, but are still reeling a little from
“real estate shock.” “We were prepared for the prices, but not for how little you get for the price,” he said. The Downings have purchased a home in Coyote Circle and are expecting the deal to close escrow by the end of October. In the meantime, says Downing, they are vagabonds-house sitting for vacationing church members until they can move into their own home. The Downings have been married for 31 years and have two adult daughters. One daughter is married to a minister and lives in Stockton with her four-year-old son. The other daughter lives in Sparks, Nevada.
The Pioneer wants to know what is happening in your parish, congregation, temple, synagogue, mosque or other place of worship. Tell us about your ministries, upcoming activities or notable members. Send your news items to Clayton Pioneer, PO Box 1246, Clayton 94517 or e-mail religion@claytonpioneer.com. ever since. The current sanctuary was completed in 1997. CROSSROADS COVENANT CHURCH New worship time, effective Sunday, Oct. 3 is 9 a.m. Worship will be followed by a fellowship time with classes for all ages beginning at 10:45 a.m. 5353 Concord Blvd., Concord, 798-5905. There is a new group beginning this Sunday, Oct. 10 at 10:45 a.m. Are you curious about Jesus? A great teacher, mystic, healer? Come hear the eyewitness accounts and ask your tough questions in an open atmosphere. “Meeting Jesus” at Crossroads Church – a ten week group experience. HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH Fall Country Fair and Oktoberfest, Oct. 30. Carnival attractions in the late afternoon are followed by our traditional Oktoberfest meal and a charity auction with entertainment. Have any leftover yarn and don’t know what to do with it? Women of Holy Cross collect yarn for making infant layettes for newborns. Please call 686-2000.
Tips on feeding your toddler
DARCIE AZZOLINI
TOTS
TO
TEENS
As parents we all know how some mealtimes can seem more like war times! Evolving independence is a normal part of development in the toddler
stage. We want our child to start showing his or her unique personality, but sometimes this can manifest as a battle of will during meals. Nutritious meals are important for your child’s growth and development. Meals should not be a battle zone, but rather time for your family to enjoy together. Here are some tips for preparing and serving healthy, happy meals. WHEN TO EAT Toddlers have small stomachs and high energy levels; spacing snacks and meals out about every two hours between meals will help keep your toddler’s stomach satisfied. Having a consistent schedule set for snacks and meals will
Host a UNICEF gift party The Contra Costa Friends of UNICEF is looking for volunteers to host a Gift Party in their
homes to benefit children displaced by ethnic and political conflict in the Darfur region of
PASTOR SCOTT DOWNING
help make the routine predictable for your toddler. Children eat best when they are not overly tired or hungry. WHAT TO EAT Make snacks count as part of your toddler’s nutritional intake. They should be considered a valuable supplement. Include snacks such as basic fruits, vegetable sticks, yogurt or cheese. When introducing new food items to your toddler, serve them with an old favorite. Make meals attractive to the eye. Make sure the food is well cooked. WHERE TO EAT Be consistent with where you feed your toddler (at the table in a booster seat or in a
highchair). Making it a family style meal will help your child develop fine motor skills as well as social skills. They will also learn about decision-making. MAKE IT FUN Your toddler will let you know when he or she is full. It’s OK if they don’t finish an entire meal or refuse to eat what is given to them — they will not starve. Try again later or the next day. Mealtime should be an enjoyable experience, so avoid scolding or nagging your toddler if he or she has not eaten as much as you would have liked. Praise them when they are eating and trying new things.
Sudan, and to benefit children who have been victims of severe flooding in Bangladesh. The gift items are unique and beautiful arts and crafts from many parts of the world and are priced at $5
to $200. All proceeds go to UNICEF. If you or a friend can host a UNICEF Gift Party, please call Guity Kiani, 672-1095.
ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC CHURCH St. Bonaventure’s is having a flea market and antique/gift sale Saturday, Oct, 16 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Anyone can rent a booth to sell high quality items, or you can donate antiques and high quality items for sale by St. Bonaventure at the antique/gift sale adjacent to the flea market. Proceeds benefit St. Mary’s Mission Hospital in Nairobi, Africa and a new school for a poor barrio in El Salvador. What a great opportunity to clear out those quality items from your house, make some money, and help some less fortunate people. For more information call St. Bonaventure at (925) 672-5800. Discussion on stem cell research, Science vs. Morality on October 12 from 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. Rev. Richard C. Sparks, moral theologian and pastor of the Newman Center in Berkeley, will address the questions around Embryonic Stem Cell Research. Come and join the discussion regarding this important issue that will be on the state ballot this November as Proposition 71. For more information contact Mike or Jane Walker at 934-2129.
Remember that during this stage mealtimes will be a messy experience. Children learn through their senses, so it is totally appropriate for them to want to touch and feel the food
they are about to eat. Darcie Azzolini, Center-Based Program Director for Ware Care Services in Concord. She can be reached with questions or comments at (925) 671-0777 x 26 or e-mail dazzolini@wecarebmcc.org
A welcoming place and sacred space where thinking minds and caring hearts truly grow in faith
SAINT JOHN’S PARISH T HE E PISCOPAL C HURCH
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Sunday Worship: 8 & 10 a.m. 5555 C LAYTON R OAD
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Call anytime: 672-8855 or check us out online: www.saintjohnsparish.org
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On October 1, 2004, Cindy and Marty are retiring
Cindy’s Custom Curtains We would like to thank our community for supporting our business, which has blessed us with countless relationships. We are very grateful for the sixteen plus years of business. Thank you. Sincerely, Cindy and Marty Koll
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Page 16
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
Exotic pets: choose the right one for you Most people buy or acquire exotic animals for their children and, while this is often a rewarding and learning experience, many experiences end in tragedy because the type of pet is not appropriate for the child. Rabbits are probably the most delicate of the mammals we see in our practice. Unfortunately, fractured backs are common and occur when the animal is picked up and then dropped or if the rabbit is handled in such a way that it kicks its extraordinarily strong legs and subsequently injures its back. Similarly, reptiles are bought without thoroughly researching care, housing and nutrition. The most common problems are related to malnutrition or poor housing conditions. The most fragile tend to be green iguanas and chameleons, while snakes and lizards like leopard geckos and bearded dragons are more durable. Turtles and tortoises are another class of animals that are commonly owned as pets.
SUZANNE LEE, DVM
PAWS
AND
CLAWS
Many have specific environmental and dietary needs. Therefore, any stress that they endure will certainly increase the risk of illness or disease. Regular veterinary visits are important to detect and treat any zoonotic (transmissible to humans) diseases that may be present or to discuss proper preventative management. Be sure to contact a reputable dealer for information before acquiring any of these species, and keep in mind that if you’re willing to provide the effort, these animals are
beautiful and can often live a long time. Guinea pigs and rats are two of my favorite exotic pets. They have wonderful personalities, have fewer medical problems and are much more forgiving to changes in environment and habitat. They may have shorter lifespans than rabbits, but I see that my owners have a more fulfilling relationship. Children can enjoy these animals at home or even take them to school for show and tell. Many classrooms have these animals, and teachers can organize rotating care for these little guys to further the students’ education. None of the pets noted above require vaccines. However, it is important to have them examined regularly to ensure the health of the pet as well as everyone who comes into contact with it. Ferrets, on the other hand, do require regular vaccinations and need to be examined at least once yearly. Even though they are still illegal to own in
Snickers is ARF’s adoption star 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek during adoption hours: 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Also at ARF: Fabulous new classes for people of all ages. From pre-school through
adult, with special events for teachers and for families. You can have fun learning about animals afternoons and weekends in ARF’s new building. Visit our website to learn when your class begins! (925) 2561ARF www.arf.net
California, it is not illegal for veterinarians to treat them. That said, we do recommend regular examinations to check for dental disease, heart disease, causes for hair loss (often adrenal disease), diarrhea and many other illnesses. Many times, as with any youngster, they swallow something they shouldn’t have, and it needs to be surgically removed! These animals are escape artists, so their enclosures needs to be secure, and if they are roaming around the house, make sure they can’t get out! Birds are part of many families, and because they can hide their illnesses until they are very sick, it is important that they are seen by a veterinarian regularly as well. Again, researching their requirements is important, and poor diet is a common problem that causes many diseases. Stress particularly affects these animals and is difficult to identify before a problem arises. Again, acquiring a bird from a reputable source is important to ensure that it has the best start in life possible.
personal touch
LEOPARD GECKO
Suzanne Lee, DVM graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 1996, and has been with Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital since 1999. She can be reached at 672-1100
during business hours.
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Owning a nontraditional pet can be challenging, rewarding and overall wonderful experience. Their unique needs can teach everyone about our environment and natural history. Also, regular communication with your veterinarian will help keep both owners and patients safe, happy and healthy.
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(925) 672-2547
6078 Main Street, Clayton
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October 8, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 17
Bruce Lee-Mitchell Rock-Mitchell Canyon Loop ing, I wish I you were right. But in reality, my day job takes most of my time, unless I secure a sponsor to bankroll my adventures (If you know anyone, have them e-mail me!). For this week’s hike, I’ve found my way back to my roots and a local favorite, Mount Diablo State Park. This time of year, shorts and tank tops give way to long sleeves and windbreakers. But don’t despair because there is still some nice weather to enjoy before winter kicks into full swing. The loop I have chosen is yet another example of Mount Diablo’s ability to reveal new trails and scenery for those who pay close attention to the trails less traveled. From the trailhead, follow the single-track trail that heads directly towards the summit. As you pass the dead fallen tree, veer left as you smoothly descend toward the creek below. This unmarked trail mimics the meandering creek and connects to another unmarked fire-road near a pond (which is bone dry this time of year). Once again, veer right and follow the next single-track trail you see heading in the general direction of the mountain itself. A quick traverse across never-ending fields gives you a sense of the enormity of the
KEVIN PARKER
AVID OUTDOORSMAN For those of you who think I spend all my time traveling the globe, skiing, hiking and kayak-
“hugely memorable...magic...not to be missed”
y t Ba Eas iere m Pre
--Contra Costa Times
Crossroads Theatre presents
Now through Oct 30
Hike of the Week: Trailhead: end of Mt. Tamalpais Drive in Dana Hills (no facilities) Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 4.0 miles +/Time: 1 to 1.5 hours +/-
open space areas that surround Mount Diablo. Continue uphill onto Mitchell Rock Trail, and head in the direction of Mitchell Canyon Staging area. Stay on Mitchell Canyon Road as if you were headed up to Deer Flat. However, make a right onto Red Road and another immediate right onto a connector trail to Black Point Trail. This trail, which is called Globe Lily Trail on the map, is a true gem that can be easily missed if you are not paying attention. After rising a short distance above Mitchell Canyon, you literally head back in the direction you came from. Wide open views of Mitchell Rock, Uncle Sam Canyon and Deer Flat can be seen all along this trail. Head back to Mitchell Canyon Gate via Black Point Trail and Mitchell Canyon Trails, respectively. However, just prior to reaching the gate, take the trail to Bruce Lee Trail, which quietly skirts the hillside just above the parking area. A few switchbacks and another
9 pe rfo by p rmance opul s ar d added ema nd
Thursday Evenings, 8pm: Oct. 14, 21, 28 Friday Evenings, 8pm: Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29 Saturday Matinees, 2pm: Oct. 9, 16, 23, 30 Saturday Evenings, 8pm: Oct. 9, 16, 23, 30 Tickets: $25/$22/$20
1277 Boulevard Way,Walnut Creek
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OKTOBERFEST Chairperson, Mary Ann Lawrence
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CLAYTON RD
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top-notch candidate for a single-track adventure that takes you off the beaten path while maintaining great views with technical terrain. With that said, get out there and hike! Please note, some of the trails on this hike are not marked and do not show up on the Mount Diablo State Park
Map, Fifth Edition. I have done my best to explain my general route, but I suggest using a bit of the old spirit of adventure. if you know what I mean. For comments on this article or suggestions for future hikes, contact Kevin at kaypee@sbcglobal.net
member Howard Geller. Oktoberfest chairperson Mary Ann Lawrence was excited about the turnout for this firstever event. Look, it’s early and there are a lot of people here,” she said. “This is great,” exclaimed Clayton resident Joann Wellsted. CBCA is now over 130 members strong and their mission is one of service. They are an active group throughout the community and orchestrate a variety of events including the Art and Wine Festival, Clayton Classic Golf tournament, holiday activities and scholarship program for high
Scrabble Lesson GEORGE BUSH: When you rearrange the letters: HE BUGS GORE DORMITORY: When you rearrange the letters: DIRTY ROOM CITY MANAGER Gary Napper makes short work of a corn dog
school seniors. The CBCA meets the last Thursday of each month. For membership information call 672-2272.
Learn to play the piano
Sunday Brunch
LINGUINI’S
abrupt ascent put you on top of the plateau. Careful navigation will lead you back onto another unmarked single-track trail that eventually connects you back to the trailhead, thus completing the loop. The network of trails involved for this hike makes it a
Oktoberfest, from page 1
Based on the works of Dr. Seuss Directed by Claire Yarrington Choreography by Adam Elsberry Musical Direction by Matt Smart
Wednesday Evening, 8pm: Oct 27
Kevin Parker/Clayton Pioneer
UNNAMED SINGLE TRACK near Dana Hills will eventually connect you to the trailhead, completing the Mitchell Canyon Loop
Buy one entrée at regular price and get the 2nd entrée of equal or lesser value at 50 % off. With coupon - One per table Exp. October 30, 2004
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Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
Hummingbirds love red flowers, but love sugar more Lord who made this day with pride, I close my eyes and listen to the different sounds around, Where birds all a twitter produce a symphony of sound,
CATHIE
The finches with their constant chatter, the cooing of a dove, The sweet song of a robin as a blue jay squawks above,
GERNHARDT
FOR THE BIRDS Welcome to my happy world of backyard birding. I have been enjoying the beginning of Autumn, the leaves falling from the trees making the birds easier to see. Have you noticed that the song sparrows are back with their wonderful music? This leads me to a whole different topic of bird identification, which I have yet to talk about in my column; birdcalls and bird song. Every bird has it’s own distinctive call and song. I consider myself a novice bird authority, in no way am I close to being an expert, and when it comes to identification by call or song, I am also a beginner. I sometimes solicit the help of my special friend Shelby who has better hearing than I do. As she relies on my descriptive abilities to mentally visualize what she can not see, I rely on her exceptional hearing talents to help me distinguish bird sounds. This is for Shelby; I love the early morning as the sun peeks over the hill, Looking out the kitchen window where the world seems so still, When my tea is brewed and breakfast done, I take it all outside, I say a prayer and thank the
A hummer chirps quite loudly as he buzzes by so fast, Warding off all other hummers from his personal repast, The sharp whistle of a flicker carries through the air, While a sparrow sweetly sings a melody so fair, In the distance is the lone chirp of a solo Black Phoebe followed by the raspy heehee-hee of a busy chickadee, The perfect way to start my day I can’t help but crack a smile Knowing this musical creation was formed with supreme style. Now that I have amused you with my little poem I think it’s time for some identification information. Although I hope the next time you are out in your yard or, at the park, or on the trail, you will take a few minutes to listen to the beautiful music created by our feathered friends. One of my favorite backyard birds is the Hummingbird. They are definitely one of the busiest birds in my yard, darting to and fro, drinking nectar from the flowers and feeders with their long needle-like bills. I enjoy watching them take quick
baths in the fountains and sprinklers. There are a few different species of Hummingbirds common to our area along with several other that migrate through in the spring and fall. If you can get a long enough look to identify which species it is, let alone which gender, you are doing better than most people, including me. The most common hummingbird to our area is the Anna’s hummingbird. Measuring in at a whopping 3 ½ - 4 inches tall, it is considered a medium-sized hummingbird. Both sexes are metallic green above, the male having graygreen under parts with a dark rose-red crown and gorget with a grayish chest and all dark tail feathers. The female has a spotted throat with a center patch of red spots, grayish-white under parts, and white-tipped outer tail feathers. The throat of juveniles is frequently unmarked which is the only real identifying characteristic. A French naturalist, Rene P. Lesson named them, in the early 1800’s for Anna de Belle Massena, the lovely wife of Prince Francois Victor Massena, a naturalist and collector of specimens of birds. The first scientific description of the Anna’s hummingbird was based on a specimen in the Prince’s collection which was purchased in 1846 by the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. The Anna’s feeds on a large variety of flowers as well as insects and spiders. They eat more arthropods than most hummingbirds. It is not a myth that hummingbirds favor red flowers; however, sugar content
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takes preference over color. They are finicky eaters, because they need high energy food to maintain their incredible metabolisms. The hummingbird probably has the highest metabolic rate of any vertebrate. They also have the highest heart rate of any bird; so in order to get the most energy from their nectar collection they test each flower and feeder. Then upon determining which one has the highest sugar content, will return to it preferentially. Areas containing flowers and feeders with high energy nectar are sought after and fought aggressively for. The males are known to protect their favorite food source and chase away any intruding visitors. Anna’s Hummingbirds, like all hummingbirds, are incredible fliers. They can hover as well as fly backwards. The movements
ANNA’S HUMMINGBIRD
of Anna’s after the nesting season can take it far beyond the limits of its breeding range. A vagrant Anna’s may show up anywhere in the United States in the fall and winter. In recent years, they have become increasingly frequent visitors from southeast Alaska south along the coast to Mexico, and they may be fairly common in the
desert areas of southeast California, southern Arizona and southwest New Mexico. In California, where they are most abundant, they move to areas where plants, that are coming into bloom, will provide food. Often, this results in an altitudinal change in range, with birds moving into higher altitudes following the breeding season, and shifting to lower levels in the fall as temperatures drop. The Anna’s Hummingbird is the only hummingbird with a winter range primarily in the United States. We are fortunate to have a mild winter allowing the Anna’s to live here year round. Until next time, Happy Bird Day. Cathie Gernhardt has lived in Clayton for the past 38 years. Bird watching is one of her greatest joys. She has taken classes at Wild Birds Unlimited and has frequently participated in local bird walks. You can email her at
Cathie@claytonpioneer.com.
Clayton Police Blotter For two weeks ending September 30 The date and time shown are when the report was received by the police.
9/20, 8:09 p.m. Clayton Road. Hit and run. Officer O'Hara responding.
WEEK ENDING SEPT. 23 ACCIDENTS: 9/18, 10:49 p.m. Mt. Zion and Clayton Road. Property damage. Officer White responding. 9/19, 10:56 a.m. Clayton Road and Marsh Creek Road. Property damage. Officer Marchut responding. 9/21, 12:32 p.m. Clayton Road. Property damage. Officer Hosaka responding. 9/20, 3:56 p.m. 17 Capistrano Court. Property damage. Officer Enea II responding
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ARRESTS: 9/18, 12:53 a.m. Lydia Lane and Clayton Road. Officers White and Enea II arrested a nineteen year old Pleasant Hill male, a nineteen year old Concord male and a twenty year old Concord male for tampering with a vehicle. The nineteenyear-old Pleasant Hill male was also charged with having a loaded weapon in his vehicle. All three suspects were transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 9/18, 9:17 p.m. Clayton Road and Washington Boulevard. Officer Enea II stopped a forty-year-old Pleasant Hill male for a vehicle violation and found him to be driving under the influence. He was arrested and booked at the Concord Police Department. 9/19, 1:40 a.m. Nottingham Circle. Officers White and Enea II arrested a seventeen-year-old Concord female for being drunk in public. She was released to the custody of her parent 9/22, Midnight, Clayton Road and Delaware Drive. Officer O'Hara stopped a fortythree year old Benicia female for a vehicle violation and found her to be driving under the
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influence. She was arrested and booked at the Concord Police Department. 9/22, 9:41 p.m. Shell Lane. Officer White arrested a fortytwo year old Clayton male for domestic battery. WEEK ENDING SEPT. 30 ACCIDENTS: 9/30, 2:29 p.m. Stranahan Circle. Accident with injuries. ARRESTS: 9/24, 7:58 p.m. Ygnacio Valley Road. A twenty-five year old Clayton male was approached when he was recognized from past contacts and it was known that he had an outstanding warrant (suspended license) for his arrest. He was arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 9/25 9.36 p.m Ygnacio Valley Road. A nineteen year old Concord male was approached when he was recognized from past contact with police, and it was known that he had an outstanding warrant for vandalism for his arrest. He was arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 9/26 10:48 p.m. Atchinson Stage and Clayton Road. A twenty-seven year old Concord male was stopped for a faulty plate lamp and swerving from left to right on the roadway. After failing a field sobriety test he was arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 9/26 9:45 p.m. Main Street and Diablo Street. A thirty-three year old Concord male was stopped for speeding and found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 9/29 8:09 p.m. Heritage Trail. A thirty-seven year old Clayton male turned himself in for an outstanding warrant for a DUI. He was arrested and transported to the Concord Police Department for booking. BURGLARIES and THEFTS: 9/24 9:32 p.m. Kirker Pass Road. Burglary Vehicle. 9/28 7:52 p.m. Hurd Place Grand Theft. 9/28 6:28 p.m. Mt. Washington Way. Vehicle Theft.
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Page 19
Your acne prone skin needs a whole lot of TLC Acne isn’t a pretty subject, but it can’t just be ignored. It’s weird that even though most of us have suffered from bouts of acne in the past or will in the future (menopause, anyone?), we don’t generally know much about it. Fact one: Pimples tend to travel in packs. Like misery, pimples love company. Fact two: Though beauty may only be skin deep, acute cases of acne can have a negative impact on self esteem, which in itself can affect many levels of an individual’s health. Fact three: Acne is a non-discriminating condition that affects men and women of all ages. Oh, sure, you can blame pimples on fast food and hormones, which in fact, are two major factors in the production of “zits,” but as with most things in life, there’s more to it than that. BLEMISH, WHY FOR ART THOU? Acne is common among teens for a variety of reasons, including the fact that their young, healthy bodies are
kickin’ it in high gear. Brains, emotions, dexterity, cellular development and hormones are all running at top speed. With
CYNTHIA GREGORY
LOOKIN’ GOOD all that biologic production, there is bound to be excess. At the most basic level, acne forms in hair follicles. Given that the body is covered with billions of hairs, it’s amazing that we don’t suffer from more acne than we do. Nevertheless, inside each hair follicle, there is also a little gland producing oil to keep the skin soft and supple. In this hair follicle is a little pocket of warm and moist
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yumminess – the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Remember that our skin sloughs off billions of dead cells a day, effectively producing an abundant supply of pimple food. The body is a remarkable machine, but as extraordinary as it is, sometimes it takes only a very small wrench in the works to throw the whole system out of whack. If that warm, oily hair follicle gets full of sloughed-but-not-eliminated skin cells, it can get backed up with oil and protein. And then Monsieur Le Bacteria is more than ready to step up for that ripe party and invite all his friends. Once the bacteria colony is in full swing, a cap forms on the follicle, and a pimple is born. Because bacteria are mainly responsible for any given pimple, squeezing pimples is the most effective way of spreading the germs around, leading to a full-on acne attack. Another reason not to squeeze a pimple is because it is formed in the delicate tube-like structure of a hair follicle, and if you’re not
BREAKAWAY FROM BREAKOUTS Like many conditions, skin tormented by acne can benefit from proactive treatment. A healthy diet that restricts junk food is a good start. Drinking plenty of water is also a big boost for healthy skin. A regular facial helps, and many estheticians offer teen facials to help address the concerns of teenage skin. Regular cleansing with a quality product helps as well. I am apt to advise against over-the-counter acne “remedies” because they tend to be harsh on already reactive skin and can make a problem worse. If you apply a “drying” agent to irritable, oily skin, the skin may react by going, “Gosh! We’re under attack! Better produce more oil!” This is exactly the effect you don’t want. I also advise against so-called natural “scrubs” containing ground-up
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preliminary application to the city, but the building has not gone before the City Council. The building’s single-story design is based on the current specifications in the TSP, which expresses a preference for, but does not require, a two-story building. Robert Kendall, who represents the building’s developers, says they have already looked at the economic feasibility of a two-story building. Because of the parking requirements, a two-story building would have to be considerably smaller than 8,500 square feet, and that just doesn’t make sense to build. The developers have already invested thousands of dollars into the design of a one-story
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building and would not be happy with a change in the rules at this point. The council has asked for a study session to review the Town Center Specific Plan and determine if any of the provisions need to be amended. “Governments change and rules change,” said Councilman Bill Walcott. “Just because something has been one way doesn’t mean it has to stay that way. If we want two stories, let’s put some teeth in it. If we can get the power to control stories, let’s do it.” At press time, the Council was scheduled to meet in a study session Oct. 6 to consider potential changes to the TCSP.
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careful, under pressure, that follicle will rupture beneath the surface, and all that bad bacteria will spread to feed on healthy tissue.
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While doctors are looking for possible cancer, they may also come across other masses or structures in the breast that deserve further investigation, including: Calcifications are tiny flecks of calcium, like grains of salt, in the soft tissue of the breast that can sometimes indicate the presence of an early breast cancer. Calcifications usually can’t be felt, but they appear on a mammogram. Depending on how close together they are clustered and their shape, size and number, your doctor may want to do further tests. Big calcifications (macrocalcifications) are usually not associated with cancer. Groups of small calcifications huddled together (clusters of microcalcifications) are associated with extra breast cell activity. Most of the time this is non-cancerous extra cell growth, but clusters of microcalcifications can also occur in areas of early cancer. Cysts: Unlike cancerous tumors which are solid, cysts are fluid-filled masses in the breast. They are very common and are rarely associated with cancer. An ultrasound is the best way to differentiate a cyst from cancer, because sound waves pass through a liquid-filled cyst. Solid lumps, on the other hand, bounce the waves right back to the film. Fibroadenomas are solid, rounded lumps made of normal breast cells. While not cancerous, these lumps may grow. And any solid lump that’s growing bigger is usually removed to make sure that it’s not a cancer. Fibroadenomas are the most common kind of breast mass, especially in young women. Now, do the smart thing and go get your mammogram.
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Cynthia Gregory holds a master's degree in fine arts and is a California licensed esthetician. She combines the surprising aspects of teaching English at Solano College and practicing esthetics at Permanent Solution, in downtown Clayton, and can be reached for comment at ceegregory@aol.com.
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Breast cancer is the most common cancer that affects women. Today’s mammogram, a safe, low-dose X-ray of the breast, is the only screening method that’s proven to detect breast cancer in its early stages. Health experts agree that women should get mammograms every year after age 40. But based on your own particular situation, your doctor may suggest that you start screening at an earlier age. MAMMOGRAM BASICS Mammograms are quick and easy according to thebreastcancersite.com, a Web site that helps fund free mammograms for underprivileged women. Your breast is placed between two plastic plates which press your breast to make it flat. (It may be uncomfortable for a few seconds.) Powders or deodorants/anti-perspirants can fog the films or sometimes look like breast calcifications (tiny flecks of calcium, like grains of salt, in breast tissue) in a mammogram, so avoid wearing them during the procedure. X-rays are taken of each breast. Most standard mammographic workups include two views of each breast from different angles. Pictures will be taken of both breasts so they can be compared to one another to check for abnormalities. If you’ve already had a mammogram, the radiologist will compare your old mammogram to the new one, looking for any changes, so be sure to bring your old films with you if you are using a new facility. According to the American Cancer Society, your mammogram facility is required by law to send you a report within 30 days. You will usually be contacted within five working days if there is a problem with your mammogram.
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apricot pits and the like. If examined under a microscope, those “natural” granules are quite sharp and nasty looking and entirely capable of scraping the skin in an unbeneficial way. There are many fine products available to treat acne-afflicted skin with the kindness and respect it deserves. Ever the optimist, I assert that pimples may come and go — and they probably will at the
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Page 20
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
Cabbage…on a slightly sour note Growing up, I thought sauerkraut was a derogatory name for a pungent vegetable that I soon vowed never to eat. It was with some trepidation that I began to taste it in later years. While there are some preparations that still don’t appeal to me, I’ve since learned of some pretty palatable ways to enjoy it. Sauerkraut is a cabbage dish, but the literal German translation is sour herb. Actually, its shortened form, kraut, is a generic term for edible plants, and when made plural — krauter — it refers to herbs. Although it’s a staple of the German and Dutch winter diet, the dish did not originate in Northern Europe. It dates back more than 2,000 years to parts of China where workers on the Great Wall are reported to have
eaten cabbage pickled with wine to supplement their rice diet. The Mongols liked the dish and brought it West when they invaded parts of Europe. In
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some quarters, it is believes that the Celts developed the European version of sauerkraut when they started to cultivate the headed variety of cabbage.
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juice to avoid or heal canker sores. Sauerkraut is simply shredded white cabbage fermented in salt. The natural sugar in the cabbage converts to lactic acid, which preserves the vegetable. Vinegar used in some preparations tends to embitter the cabbage, in my view. However, home preparation methods can be controversial. Typically, a ratio of 3 Tbsp of salt to 5 pounds of cabbage is mixed together, packed into a stoneware crock, tamped down, then topped with more salted cabbage until the crock is filled to about 3 inches from the top. The brine that develops from the salted cabbage needs to be covering the cabbage completely. A weighted lid lies atop the cabbage for 5 to 6 weeks while the cabbage ferments at room temperature. The USDA recommends considerably more salt and other safeguards. Consequently, commercial preparations are recommended. I think that bottled or plastic-packaged sauerkraut has a better texture and flavor than canned. Either way, it’s good in stews and soups. SAUSAGE-APPLE-SAUERKRAUT BAKE 1 lb Polish sausage or Bratwurst, sliced into ½” slices 2 apples, peeled, cored and quartered
THE CELTS developed the European version of sauerkraut when they started to cultivate the headed variety of cabbage.
1 onion, chopped finely 2 c sauerkraut, undrained ½ c brown sugar 2 tsp caraway seed 1 c water ½ c buttered bread crumbs Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix together all ingredients and place in 2 to 3 qt casserole dish. Bake for 45 mins., top with bread crumbs and bake another 15 minutes until the topping is toasted. SAUERKRAUT SOUP ½ lb. ground pork 1 onion, chopped finely 1 clove of garlic, minced 2 Tbsp olive oil or butter 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced 2 c sauerkraut 4 c chicken stock salt and pepper to taste Sauté onion and garlic in oil or butter until translucent. Add ground pork and cook until reddish color has faded. Add pota-
to, sauerkraut and stock. Cook for about 45 minutes. Press potato against sides of pan to help thicken the soup. Add salt and pepper to taste and garnish with chopped parsley or diced salami. MIRACLE MARINADE ½ c dry white wine 1 c sauerkraut juice 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard 1 clove garlic, chopped 2 Tbsp onion, minced 1 tsp. dried marjoram 1 tsp. dried thyme Marinate boneless chicken thighs or beef steak for 6 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Drain and discard marinade. BBQ or pan grill meat to juicy tenderness. Linda Wyner is an attorney in Walnut Creek by day, and an accomplished chef and “foodie” by choice. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com
Take steps to scale down kitchen The kitchen is one of the busiest spaces in a home. Cooking, eating, entertaining and socializing all happen in the kitchen — it’s the main gathering place in the home. As a result, it is likely the most unorganized room in the house. If your kitchen cabinets and junk drawers are jammed and overflowing, you are running out of counter space, or you can never find what you need when you need it, it’s time to take control of your kitchen clutter. Here are some tips to organize your kitchen and keep it clutter-free, courtesy of organizedmom.com. Create an organizational plan.
Establish workstations like a restaurant does and keep related items at each station: prep area, cooking, baking and cleaning. Purchase storage solutions. Plastic bins, baskets, containers, racks and freestanding units are inexpensive storage ideas. You can find deals at dollar stores, or check stores that carry overstocks, closeouts and slightly dented items. You may even be able to re-use items you already own. For instance, a shoebox covered with the same contact paper as your shelves can store spice bottles. If you are short on cabinet space but have plenty of wall space, try using an old
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We know that it was an essential part of the diet during medieval times. Today, the Japanese serve tsukemono as an appetizer, and Koreans enjoy kim chi on virtually a daily basis. The Dutch discovered that it was suitable for long voyages and helped ward off scurvy (a disease that develops in the absence of Vitamin C). Captain James Cook was known to include barrels of fermented cabbage on his explorations. German and Dutch settlers brought their taste for sauerkraut to America. A New Year’s tradition of braising pork and sauerkraut is believed to bring good fortune to the family. Because Germanic names fell out of favor during World Wars I and II, Americans for a time euphemistically referred to sauerkraut as Liberty Cabbage. Today, we Americans eat nearly 400 million pounds of sauerkraut a year (about 1.5 pounds per person). The health benefits of cabbage and its conversion into sauerkraut are highly touted by nutritionists. The fermentation process develops isothiocynates, which are believed to be cancer inhibitors, particularly in the breast, colon, lung and liver. Sauerkraut is reputed to be rich in cruciferous phytochemicals, iron and fiber. Some homeopathic physicians and dentists recommend that patients rinse their mouths with sauerkraut
bureau to store canned goods, towels, extra dishes or cookware. Don’t forget to nest items inside one another to maximize space. Every item needs its own home. When items have a UTILIZING STORAGE SOLUTIONS and tossing unused gadgets can help keep your kitchen organized and d e s i g n a t e d clutter-free. place, they tend to get put away. If they don’t, items on counters that don’t they tend to get lost. Utilize belong in the kitchen. Organize for maximum efficienbins and baskets wherever possible to keep “like things” cy. Place items near each other if together and readily accessible. they will be used together. If Go vertical to free up horizon- your coffee maker sits on the tal space. Utilize the empty ver- counter, store the coffee cups, tical wall space in a nearby clos- filters and sugar in the cabinet et by installing shelves that can above it. Clean everything. Tackle cabibe used to store canned goods. nets, drawers, shelves, counterInstall hanging broom and mop tops, refrigerator, oven, etc. holders. Employ hooks, pegReplace tattered dishtowels and boards and Lazy Susans. If torn or worn shelf paper. your counter space is at a preKeep out clutter. Since you’ve mium, mount some of your small appliances under the cab- spent all that time organizing your kitchen, you’ll want to inets. Toss clutter. Get rid of what is make sure it remains clutterold and what you don’t use. free. Set aside some time once a Check expiration dates of month to check for clutter herbs, yeast, baking powder, buildup, and spend a few minetc. Throw out cooking gadgets utes each night putting away that are gathering dust. Remove anything that doesn’t belong in the kitchen.
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October 8, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 21
Plant trees for privacy, color and shade Fall is the best time of year for installation of trees and shrubs. The weather is cooling down to make planting slightly more comfortable, and winter rains are on their way to help establish the roots of the tree or
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
shrub. Even plants and trees that lose their leaves in the winter benefit from fall planting. During October many customers come in inquiring about certain trees and looking for suggestions. Do a little homework and look around town to see what is growing. Bring in a photo
or a small branch of a tree that you are considering. Listen or read about the tree’s description and growth and know what you’re getting into. Privacy is the No. 1 motivating issue for tree planters, followed by vertical interest and shade. There are some lovely selections of trees to consider for your privacy needs. For those considering an installation between two homes, consider the rooms that need privacy. Ilex ‘Wilsonii’ or Wilson Holly, makes an excellent privacy tree. This evergreen has rich, shiny green leaves and produces clusters of bright red berries. This tree will reach 6-8 feet tall and 10 feet wide, making it an excellent screen. Also, the Wilson Holly is wind and sun tolerant, perfect for our harsh environment. Dodonaea viscose, or the Hopseed Bush, trained as a tree makes an excellent screen as well. This evergreen has foliage that changes color with the seasons. It is tear drop shaped with foliage that changes to a wine red in fall
and lasts through winter. As spring warms, the bladed foliage begins to change to green. This tree can reach 10-15 feet tall and almost as wide. If the planter desires more flower power, plant a vine between the trees. The Bower Vine is an excellent choice. This plant blooms May through October and is evergreen and hardy in cold weather. Feijoa, or Pineapple Guava, makes an interesting screen with its gray foliage and dramatic inchwide bloom. Big central tufts of red stamens and four fleshy white petals tinged purple on the inside can create quite a stir. The flower of the Pineapple Guava is edible, as is the eventual fruit. Trim as often as needed to maintain desired height and width. Shade trees are a desirable feature in any Clayton landscape. Plant your selection away from the property lines in a central location in the yard for maximum shade. Pistacia chinensis is a good selection for providing shade. This moderate grower has a rounded shape that reaches 30
feet tall and wide and great fall color, turning orange, red and sometimes yellow. This is a reliable tree that tolerates little water once established to regular lawn water. Another great shade tree to consider is Sapium seviferum, or Chinese tallow tree. The Tallow has a dense, round crown, reaching 30 feet tall and 25 feet wide. Use in the lawn near the street or patio to provide moderate shade. The foliage is dense but flutters in the slightest breeze, giving the tree an airy look. Choose Tallow during the fall to show off its color. Some change to mixed colors of yellow and orange, and some take on a flaming red or plum purple that is highly desirable. Eriobotrya deflexa, or the Bronze Loquat, is a fast-growing evergreen that is sold multi-trunk or trained as a tree. Reaching 1530 feet tall and wide, this plant loves to have air circulating around its body. Do not plant too close to a fence. The foliage is large, prominently veined and
s h a r p l y toothed. The new leaves emerge bright copper and hold the color for a long time. Plant with Queen Palms for a tropical look. This plant makes a great screen for a pool or spa area. Chitalpa tashkentensis is another excellent shade tree. Varieties have a trumpet-shaped flower in white, PISTACIA CHINENSIS pink and sometimes lavender. It is fast growing to 20-30 feet tall Guava. Look for selections such and wide. This tree is desert as Morning Cloud and Pink tough. Incorporate on brumes Dawn. planted with ornamental grasses Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M and sages. The Chitalpa is sum- Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her mer blooming and compliments with questions, comments or suggestions Crape Myrtle and Pineapple at GardenGirl94517@aol.com
Advertorial
Fun new contest at pumpkin farm JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
DAVID AND SHARON OSTEEN celebrate 24 years at Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm on Marsh Creek Road.
The weather is changing and thoughts turn toward the upcoming holidays, especially Halloween. If you need help getting into the spirit of Halloween, Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm and Christmas Trees has everything you need and more. There are six acres of pumpkins, scarecrows, a giant straw maze, playland, bean pots, the Pumpkin
Farm Express and surprise visits from Rollin A. Plumpkin. There’s something new this year. Owners David and Sharon Osteen are sponsoring a Pumpkin Garden Contest. It’s easy and fun with a little imagination. Instead of carving and eating your pumpkin, try scooping out the seeds and pulp and planting a garden. Your pumpkin garden must contain at least one living plant. Pumpkin Gardens will be judged at Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm
on Saturday, October 16 at 1 p.m. There are age categories and prizes for the winners. The best part is that after the contest, when your pumpkin gets soft, you can plant your pumpkin garden directly into the ground. The Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm began 24 years ago when the Osteens planted a few pumpkins along with other vegetables in a small U-Pick garden. The farm grew from there and is now a favorite field trip site for schools from all over the Bay
“Look Who’s Selling Clayton!”
Area. It’s also become a tradition for local families to visit the farm together to pick their favorite pumpkin for the holidays. The farm also includes Christmas tree sales, spring planting tours and birthday parties. For more information on the Pumpkin Garden Contest and other activities at the Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm call 672-5198. You can visit the farm on Pine Lane in Clayton, just off Marsh Creek Road.
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4 Large bedrooms, 2 updated baths, approx 2325 sq.ft. Spacious formal living & dining room w/vaulted ceilings, family room w/wet bar, hardwood floor entry, updated eat-in kitchen w/tile counters & central heat/air. Spacious master suite, tile roof, new exterior paint & meticulously maintained yards!
Awake to Views of Mt. Diablo! 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Approx 2,549 sq. ft., Custom additions w/permits, new roof, pergo flrs, spacious family room w/brick fireplace & formal living & dining room w/bay windows, 3 sets of French doors, private landscaped backyard w/deck & RV parking too! Light & bright throughout!
3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,659 sq.ft. Large .26 acre lot! Original hardwood flrs throughout, formal living rm w/fireplace, light & bright family rm & eat-in kitchen w/double oven. Central heat, vaulted ceilings, shutters/blinds throughout & large backyard with sparkling pool
035 d $9,0 aved Sold! Selllerr S
ys!! Sold in 4 Da6,110 3 $ d ed v a Selllerr S
050! d $13,0 aved Sold! Selllerr S
350! d $24,3 aved Sold! Selllerr S
10 Mount Hamilton Ct.
Clayton
$599,500
182 Mt. Wilson Way
Clayton
$751,000
19 Long Creek Circle
Clayton
$350,000
5839 Verna Way East
Clayton
$555,000
4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,740 sq.ft. Huge premium lot! Huge backyard with fruit trees galore (plum, almond & orange). Backs to greenbelt. No rear neighbors! View of Mt. Diablo! Newer roof, updated kitchen with breakfast nook & very quiet neighborhood close to schools!
5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, approx 2,692 sq.ft. Lovely kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, gas stove, tile counters and garden window! Gas fireplace in family room, oak hardwoood flr in entry, kitchen & eating area, wet bar & large laundry room with storage. Master Bedroom features views & private deck, lovely backyard with spa & gorgeous views!
3 Bedrooms, 2 updated Baths, approx 1,075 sq.ft. Great Location in Clayton! Gorgeous Detached Town-Home with attached garage! Large front and back patio with trees! Hardwood floors, gourmet kitchen with white cabinets and granite tile counters & spacious family room for all your entertaining!
4 Bedrooms, 2 Updated Baths, approx 1,680 sq.ft. Huge .31 Lot with RV parking! Spacious family room w/brick wood burning fireplace & French doors off Dining room, new carpet, fresh paint in/out & tile entry. Some hardwood floors, spacious master suite, new heat/air & new roof/gutters.
750! d $20,7 aved Sold! Selllerr S
650! d $12,6 aved Sold! Selllerr S
650! d $27,6 aved Sold! Selllerr S
d $9,158! aved Sold! Selllerr S
1221 Buckeye Terrace
Clayton
$495,000
3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,639 sq.ft. Lovely home with decorator touches throughout! Spacious living/dining room combo with gleaming hardwood floors and double sided ceramic tile fireplace! Family room with custom tile and double sided ceramic tile fireplace, inside laundry room & lovely landscaped backyard with built-in BBQ, stamped cement & wired for a spa. Large Gourmet Kitchen with tile counters, gas stove, built-in microwave and dishwasher. Low Hoa Too!
263 Stranahan Circle
Clayton
$460,000
3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,339 sq.ft. Built in 95', Desirable floor plan w/master downstairs accessing patio. Sparkling kitchen with tile counters & gas appliances, elegant living room w/marble gas fireplace & neutral like new carpet, paint & linoleum. Professionally landscaped front & backyards & desirable corner lot!
1816 Yolanda Circle
Clayton
$610,000
3 Large Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,780 sq.ft. Gorgeous home inside & out! Spacious family room w/woodburning fireplace, dining room w/wood floors, new heat/air & new roof. Master Bedroom with French doors to private Trex patio deck, fruit trees & generous side & backyard with RV parking. Great Clayton Neighborhood!
22 Mountaire Ct.
Clayton
$759,950
5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, approx 2960 sq.ft. Immaculate inside & out! Professionally landscaped front and backyard. Gorgeous gourmet kitchen with granite counter, bay window, breakfast nook & much more! New paint in and out, 3 car garage, new dual pane windows and custom built-ins throughout. Must See!
You Could Save $27,050! By selling your home with Help-U-Sell instead of with brokers who charge a 6% commission* (the savings are based on a home selling for $600,000).You can select from many fine real estate professionals.Why not choose one that will also save you money when you sell? *Commissions are negotiable and not set by law.
You’re Paying How Much To Sell Your Home?
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Page 22
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
GSA wants everyone to take pride in who they are There is a place for everyone at Clayton Valley High School. When students enter CVHS, they are almost guaranteed to find a club that fits their liking, and if not they can create their own. The clubs at CVHS range from religious and ethnic clubs to groups that spend their time sitting in the quad in lawn chairs! One of the more interesting but not so well known groups is the Gay-Straight Alliance.
The GSA is a student-run club sponsored by Mrs. Bonneville, a CVHS English teacher. Many students have never heard of this club, and those who have tend to have misconceptions about the people in GSA. I decided to sit in on the second GSA meeting of the school year, which took place Sept. 23 at lunchtime. When I first entered the room, I noticed the laid-back attitude of the members of
School News CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL Clayton Valley Drama’s 2004/2005 season is off to a smashing start. Come to the MU Rm and join in the theatrical mayhem. On Oct. 21, 22, and 23 at 7:30 p.m. the ClaytonArts Academy Troupe will present the melodrama “Deadwood Dick,� based on the 1870’s dime novels of Edward L. Wheeler. The plot includes long lost daughters, stolen gold mines, kidnapped heroines and hairbreadth escapes. The production is directed, designed, acted, produced and constructed by students in the ClaytonArts Academy Troupe, which is the advanced drama wing of the CAA drama specialty. These CAA students must audition to be accepted in this production team and they put on two shows a year, one in the fall and one in the spring. Veteran Caitlin Kenney is directing assisted by Kellie Neilsen. $5 at the door.
“Viet Rock� is an all school production of Megan Terry’s venture into transformational theatre and her chilling vision of war playing Nov. 12, 13, 17, 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door (except for student nights). Drama teacher Tom Wills directs the production. An original and gutsy piece of theatre which challenges and ambushes the audience with an assault on social and political issues revolving around this country’s propensity for military intervention on a world scale. These issues were evident in Vietnam, before Vietnam and, unfortunately have continued since Vietnam. All 22 actors will play numerous roles in an ever-changing view of events both comical and tragic from our own storied American past and present. Rehearsals will be a potpourri of improvisation, roleplaying and structuring until Megan Terry’s and our state
GSA, but I also noticed that they were passionate about what they believe in. While I sat and listened, the club planned projects to end all discrimination. Jessica Myers, a senior and GSA president, began the meeting by reading a letter by Bette Midler to President Bush. The letter was about marriage and the fact that sexuality should not matter when it comes to love. Bette pointed out that what is done in the
bedroom is not what marriage or love should be based on. After GSA discussed this, they began to brainstorm ideas to get the word out about their club and the discrimination that gays unfairly face everyday. The members of GSA contemplated making posters, selling skittles at Homecoming, having a pride day (apart from the Day of Silence), making buttons and doing fund-raisers and sending a portion of profits to
ments and perspectives on war and the human experience. Subscribe to Clayton Valley’s award-winning scholastic newspaper, The Talon. Send a check for $15 to CVHS Talon, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord, CA 94521. The Talon staff will mail the monthly newspaper to your home, business or office. The first edition is scheduled for publication on Oct. 15. The student staff must raise all printing costs for the newspaper. Advertising rates are available by calling 925-682-7474 ext. 2602. Please support student journalism and stay informed on Clayton Valley High School events and issues.
MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY
DIABLO VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL The Entertainment Book fundraiser is a success. There were many multiple book sales; both local and out of town, and books are still being picked up. Totals for the sale will be forthcoming as soon as all orders are processed.
Fall Festival,Oct. 9, 2–6 p.m. Scarecrow Pageant and auction, cakewalk, games, dunk tank, Clayton Fire Engine and much more! Don’t miss this spectacular event. Additional information will be available on the school web site under Events. Parent Faculty Club (PFC) Meeting at 7 p.m., Oct. 19 in the multi use. Childcare is provided for this event. If you would like to have a specific item included on the agenda, please contact Rosy Straka at rosystraka@yahoo.com or 672-3200. 7304. Mt. Diablo Nights at Marina Skate on Oct. 22. Look for several additional Marina Skate nights throughout the year. For more information on school events and fundraisers visit the school Web site at http://www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/ mountdiabloelementary.
charity (maybe AIDS research). These are all long-term projects that will need planning. The group also discussed doing a “Didja Know?� every week during announcements to educate students about sexuality issues. Some of the facts that came up when they discussed this idea were, “fagot actually means a bundle of sticks and that dike is a bank to control water.� The GSA wants people who use terms like this in derogatory ways to understand literally what they are saying. While the group brainstormed, some people walked in late, but nobody seemed to care very much. Everyone in the room was friendly to their peers, and nobody was judging anybody else, which is precisely what GSA is aiming for. Last year, the GSA petitioned against the amendment to ban gay marriage, however, their signatures were ignored because most of the people who signed were minors. Although they would like to try to petition again this year, they
CYNTHIA WEST
STUDENT REPORTER have bigger goals to accomplish. GSA wants everyone to take pride in who they are; nobody should ever have to hide their “true colors� or feel scared to reveal themselves to friends. Overall, the GSA simply wants everyone to have tolerance for others’ differences on an everyday basis, whether they are sexuality, race or religion. Cynthia West is a junior at CVHS. E-mail her at cvhs@claytonpioneer.com
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October 8, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
October 8, 2004
GEORGE VUJNOVICH,
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Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
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BLACK DIAMOND AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
BLACK DIAMOND AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
Just Listed! Picture Perfect "Pioneer" model! on a quiet court. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,958sf, inside laundry & attached 2 car garage! Upgraded slate entry with soaring ceiling. Living room with upgraded slate fireplace. Formal dining & family rooms with gleaming hardwood floors. Light filled open floor plan with neutral décor & upgraded wood blinds throughout! Large kitchen with abundant oak cabinets, tile counters & breakfast bar, new appliances & upgraded porcelain tile floors. Mt. Diablo views from secondary bedrooms. Spacious master suite. Quaint secluded level lot with lawn area & ornamentals. Walk to community pool/spa & downtown! $579,000
Just Listed! Superb "Summit" model! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,991sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Upgraded & extended "WilsonArt" laminate wood floors. Large, open floor plan with neutral décor. Living & family rooms share two-way tile fireplace. Formal dining room. Kitchen with oak cabinets, tile counters & island. Large master suite with walk-in closet & vaulted ceiling. Larger private level lot features an aggregate patio with lawn area. $579,500
Simply Immaculate! "Kirker" Model! on a Premium golf course lot backing to 5th fairway with sweeping course, hillside & city/valley views! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,313sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Upgraded Italian marble entry with soaring ceiling! Upgraded neutral carpet & plantation shutters thru-out! Family room with tile wet bar & marble tile fireplace. Gourmet kitchen with tile floors, counters & island. Spacious master suite overlooks course, hills & valley. Level lot backs to course with brick trimmed patio, lush lawn area & a variety ornamentals! $729,000
FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
NEW CONSTRUCTION CONCORD/ CLAYTON BORDER
OAK HOLLOW AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
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Just Listed! Rare One Story “Champagne” model on a prime view lot overlooking valley to Delta & beyond! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 2,237sf & 3 car garage. Upgraded flooring & neutral décor throughout! Gourmet kitchen with an abundance of cabinets, tile counters & island. Formal living & dining rooms. Great family room with fireplace. Spacious master suite. Level lot with lush lawn area & a variety of flowers & ornamentals is situated on a quiet court backing to open space with spectacular views! $799,995
Palatial Mediterranean Estate! Approx. 8,000sf, 4 bedrooms, 4 full & 2 half baths, 2 bonus rooms, a library, enormous family room, formal dining & living rooms, 3 fireplaces. Grand foyer features a dramatic spiral staircase. Chef's gourmet kitchen boasts commercial grade stainless steel appliances. Exceptional attention to detail from the state-of-the-art mechanical systems to the rustic Italian doors & cabinetry throughout! Premium view flat lot (approx. 70 acre) on a quiet cul-de-sac overlooking city to Delta! $2.5 million
Meticulously maintained-like new! 3 bedrooms + loft, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,886sf & inside laundry. Neutral décor & upgrades. Sun filled light & bright living & formal dining room. Family room with fireplace. Gourmet kitchen features tile counters, island , upgraded tile floor & an abundance of oak cabinets. Nestled at the end of a quiet court backing to walking/golf path. Rear yard features a nice lawn area, cozy patio with extended walkway & a raise patio overlooking yard. Mature landscape includes a variety of flowers, ornamentals & palm trees. Walk to community pool & spa! $599,000