OCT 21 Clayton Pioneer 2005 by Pioneer Publishers

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IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

October 21, 2005

925.672.0500

Landscape measure goes to voters Measure M will raise the annual assessment to $365. Here’s where it goes:

GREGG MANNING

MAYOR’S CORNER It’s time to clear up misconceptions When I was urging people to vote Yes on Measure M at the recent October Fest, I discovered there are a great many things which people consider “facts” but that are, in fact, wrong. If we were in a big city, these would be called urban myths. Since we live in a small town I will call them small town myths. Here is an even dozen of these myths debunked. Myth: My property taxes are so high Clayton should be rolling in money. It would be nice if Clayton were getting all or even the lion’s share of the property tax everyone pays on real estate in the City of Clayton. With the value of houses in Clayton on the rise for a number of years and in solid double-digit range for the past few years, many new residents are paying pretty high taxes. However, the fact remains that the City of Clayton gets only 4.35 percent of the total property tax collected. This means if your property tax is $10,000 the city collects $435. Clayton is grateful for that small portion of the property tax that we do receive, but in fact, the City gets more from the fees on vehicles than from the tax on houses. Myth: Affordable housing is the same as Section Eight housing. There is no Section Eight housing program in the City of Clayton and there is little chance that there will ever be such a program. Section Eight is a rent assistance program and the lion’s share of the funds from this governmental subsidy program goes for apartment rentals. There are no apartment buildings in Clayton. Clayton has met its state imposed affordable housing requirements for every year since their inception. This is in

See Mayor, page A7

What’s inside SECTION A Around Town . . . . . . . . . .A2 Classifieds and Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . .A5 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . .A6 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . .A7 Letters to the Editor . . . . .A8 Music Notes . . . . . . . . . . . .A9 Food for Thought . . . . . .A10 CVHS Reporter . . . . . . . .A10 Kitchen Tour . . . . . . . . . .A12 SECTION B Hiker’s Haven . . . . . . . . . . .B1 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B2 The Full Monte Review . . .B4 Community Calendar . . . . .B5 Holiday Gift Shopping . . . .B6 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . .B8 Dining Around . . . . . . . . . .B9 Pet Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B10 Church News . . . . . . . . . .B11 Moon River Review . . . . .B12

$276

$69

$15

Operation of the district with a higher standard for landscape maintenance

Capital improvements including the repair and upgrade of irrigation system

Maintenance and operation of a downtown “Central Park”

Weekend operation of the city fountain

Landscape Maintenance District Standards Task

Currently

Under Measure M

Turf Mowing Trimming Shrubs Trimming trees Turf fertilization Shrub fertilization Irrigation repairs

Measure M will provide for a CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE “Watchdog” committee composed of Clayton residents will oversee and monitor landscape maintenance expenses

Once/2 weeks Once/18 mo. As safety demands Once/year None As required & funds allow Plant replacement None Weeds (spot spray) Every 2 mo. Trails - Weed Once/year abatement Open Space Once/year Firebreaks/weed abatement

Every week Once/4 mo. Annual program Twice/year Twice/year Quarterly inspection & repair As needed Every 6 weeks Twice/year Twice/year

For almost two years, the Blue Ribbon Landscape Committee has been sharing with our community what we have learned on our journey to understand the history and workings of Clayton’s Landscape Maintenance District, and the challenges of caring for the public roadway landscaping, open space and trails on such a large scale. We each initially thought it was a simple issue but you might liken it to preparing a meal for a family of four, and then finding

500 arriving for dinner. What we brought from our personal gardening experiences didn’t translate well to the scale and magnitude of three maintenance workers taking care of our community’s landscaping. Fortunately, the pride and satisfaction in a well-kept appearance to our own front yards, neighborhoods, and community enabled us to bridge that learning gap and we united under one goal: insuring Clayton’s ‘front yard’ is well kept, lasting and a source of visual satisfaction. Our efforts to keep you

informed have met with success yet some misunderstandings about Measure M need clarification: Will my assessment be increased by $365 if Measure M passes? NO. Currently, residential parcels pay about $125 annually. Passage of Measure M replaces the existing annual assessment that expires in 2007 (see Section 8 in the Ballot text), and provides the needed funding to insure the continuation and improvement of our community’s ‘front yard’. So, the new assessment is $365 per

In 2007, the current Landscape Maintenance District will sunset, taking with it the mechanism for funding the cost of maintaining and improving the city’s roadways, trails and open spaces. Not willing to wait until the District has expired and risk getting caught short with no way to pay for landscape maintenance, the city council will bring the issue to the ballot this November as Measure M. If passed, the new measure will raise the current annual assessment from $125 to $365, giving the city enough money to raise the current standards of landscape maintenance, to pay for the operation and maintenance of a city park and to run the fountain at Oakhurst Drive and Clayton Road on weekends. It will also guarantee a source of funding which will allow the city to issue a $2.5 million bond to complete a long list of

See Landscape, page A8

Where have all the flowers gone? DAN RICHARDSON Special to the Pioneer

TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

year for everything. What about the public landscape areas around town that are just dirt, or in need of renovation? Measure M insures that all public landscape areas in the District are treated equally by designating a fixed flat rate of $69 per year (out of the annual assessment of $365) to fund the estimated $2.5 million in deferred improvements throughout the District. It also directs that work be done as soon as practical so that those

See Flowers, page A8

Measure M Public Forum The Pioneer will sponsor two public forums on Measure M, the landscape assessment increase, which appears on the Nov. 8 ballot. The first forum is Mon., Oct 24 and the second one is Thurs., Oct 27. Both forums will start a 7 p.m. in the Clayton Library Community Room. Absentee ballots will have already been mailed to voters by Oct. 27. However, the ballots are not due until 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 8, leaving plenty of time for Clayton voters to attend a forum and become fully informed on this important issue before casting their vote.

Clayton woman has major IMPACT on inmates JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

While many of us shudder at the thought of just visiting a maximum security prison let along staying there for long periods of time, Collette Carroll jumps at the opportunity every Monday evening as she heads for San Quentin. This petite, energetic Aussie from Clayton is passionate about her involvement in a program called IMPACT, Incarcerated Men Putting Away Childish Things. Every Monday, barring any unforeseen circumstances like the most recent lockdown, Collette joins approximately 14 other inside facilitators who teach an intensive rehabilitative program to San Quentin inmates designed to break the bonds of incarceration. The program is divided into eight modules, each lasting about 16 weeks and classes are held every

Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. Topics range from addictions and relationships to violence prevention, morality and Financial Literacy 101. Having worked at the prison with IMPACT for the past four years, Collette has become a cheerleader for the incarcerated men that she mentors. “One of the main things that we are trying to teach is male accountability,” says Collette. The first module focuses on the male role in society and talks about the incarcerated men who haven’t had any real male influence in their lives. “They don’t come by it naturally. So we teach them what it takes to be a real man. We teach them how to find out who they are and how they measure up.” She tells inmates over and over again, “you have to see yourself out of here before it will happen.” One would think that Collette would get lost in the

shuffle each Monday, being the only woman in a class of over 100 men and 14 male facilitators, but that’s not the case. She admits she is fearless and not at

INMATES

IN THE

IMPACT

all intimidated. “I’m just not,” she says. Part of the reason is her passion for what Project IMPACT is and what it can do. “I see the

difference it makes. I see their faces. I see lights go on. I see inmates get out.”

See Impact, page A6

Photo courtesy of Collette Carroll

PROGRAM

at San Quentin attend class on addictions.

Page A2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 21, 2005

Around Town Concord Rotary helps in finding housing for Katrina victims As they learned of thousands left homeless by Hurricane Katrina, members of the Concord Rotary quickly stepped up to help. Partnering with Phoenix Programs, an organization that offers resources to homeless people, the two organizations developed an initiative to immediately respond to the crisis created in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Phoenix Programs CEO Michael Barrington and Jeremy Green, Director of Homeless Services, identified ways to help displaced families in the stormbattered Gulf Coast region. Phoenix Programs and Concord Rotary have provided three fully furnished apartments for families with five to six members. In addition, Phoenix

will offer job counseling and placement services using connections with Rotarians and

within the community. Green located three families in Oakland who had been dis-

Photo courtesy of Concord Rotary

Jeremy Green, Michael Barrington, William Bobetsky (standing), Zena Moses, Ivan Nicholas and Memory Woodard.

placed by Katrina and were in need of housing and support services. The first family, Zena Moses and Ivan Nicholas, arrived on Sept. 28 at their new apartment on Detroit Avenue in Concord. Welcoming them were Barrington, who presented the key; Green, also a Concord Rotarian, and board members William Bobetsky and Memory Woodard. Two additional families will be moving into their new apartments soon. To learn how you can help, visit the Rotary Club of Concord’s Web Site www.concordcarotary.org, or e-mail John Nelson Miller at john.n.miller@comcast.net . For more information on Rotary, contact the Rotary International Web site at www.rotary.org.

Andrea Mullins volunteers for Katrina aid in LA ANDREA MULLINS Special to the Pioneer

When my college friend Sean Arlt and I heard about the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, we felt like we had to do something. I was just completing a summer course with the Red Cross to receive a CNA degree (Certified Nursing Assistant) when the hurricane hit. I asked my CNA

Red Cross teacher how I might help and she referred me to the person handling the Katrina volunteers in the Sonoma County area. Next, Sean and I went to each of our professors at Sonoma State University and explained to them that we wanted to be away from school for ten days. Each of our professors thought it was a wonderful See Mullins, page A9

Brownie Troop 321 collects items for Katrina aid On Sept. 14, Brownie Troop 321 had their first meeting of

the school year. Troop leaders, Tami Purser and Sharon

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

BROWNIE TROOP 321: Kyra Trowbridge (kneeling), Sarah Williams, Haley Rivera, Lauren Russell, Ashley McNulty, Alison Macaulay, Rachel Delong and Sydney Purser.

McNulty, asked their Brownie Troop 321 to give them some ideas of what they would like to accomplish and do this school year in Brownies. The girls had lots of ideas, and one idea was to help other people in need. In the next few weeks the girls of Troop 321 were off passing out fliers to their neighbors asking for donations of clothes and money to give to Katrina victims. They also cleaned out their closets to give some of their own clothes, shoes, backpacks, school supplies and sports equipment. On Oct. 12 the parents loaded up their cars and vans with the collected goods and caravanned to St. Bonaventure’s to deliver the items to Sr.

Roberta Carson who is coordinating the Katrina relief efforts for the parish. As the goods were unloaded, the girls were very excited to see all the bags and boxes of items they had collected. Sr. Roberta was thrilled to see the girls bringing in boxes and bags one after the other to help out three families that have been relocated to our area from the Katrina devastated regions. On Nov. 4 the troop is participating in the Holiday Girl Scouts Boutique at Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All proceeds from the crafts and baked goods they are making will be donated to Katrina victims as well.

ANDREA MULLINS

AND

SEAN ARLT in front of their ERV in Louisiana

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS NEEDED FOR KATRINA VICTIMS St. Bonaventure’s Catholic Church has taken responsibility for the resettlement of three families displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The families have found housing in the West County area but are in need of furniture and household items to begin their new lives, reports Sr. Roberta Carson, coordinator of St. Bonaventure’s resettlement efforts. Especially needed are beds and bedding, dressers and other furniture, small kitchen appliances (toasters, blenders, mixers, etc.), laundry supplies and household cleaning products and toiletries.

“It’s overwhelming to resettle a whole family,” said Sr. Roberta. Transportation is and will continue to be a challenge for the relocated families as they begin to make their way into jobs and school. Those BART tickets with small remaining amounts can be especially useful to the families. Non-profit organizations can cash in those tickets for full fare tickets. Take your household items, furniture and BART tickets to St. Bonaventure’s, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. For more information, call Sr. Roberta Carson, 672-5800.

Jeffry Ranch, Clayton - 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, w/ 4th bed possible in-law unit with it's own entrance. Numerous upgrades including Pergo flooring, custom paint, ceramic tile counters and flooring, ceiling fans and custom built-ins. Large lot on a court with RV parking, hot tub, patio and deck.

Pine Hollow, Concord - 4 bedroom, 2 bath single story home at the end of a cul-de-sac. Dining area with sliding door to back patio, formal living room with views of the front yard and garden, gourmet kitchen w/ granite counters and custom cabinets. Outside enjoy the solar heated pool. Walking distance to tennis courts and park.

Black Diamond, Clayton - Sitting on the 12th fairway of Oakhurst golf course at the end of the cul de sac you will find this 3 bedroom, 2 .5 bath home. Inside you will find an inviting master suite w/a spacious walk in closet, formal dining and living rooms, newer carpeting and fresh paint. Community pool/spa and sports courts.

Walnut Creek/Concord Border - This charming single story 4 bedroom, 2 bath home located on a quiet cul de sac. Sitting on a large lot with gorgeous backyard and huge patio & sideyard. Inside you will find an updated kitchen with newer appliances, breakfast bar and dining $739,980 area.

Concord - Charming updated home with lots of upgrades! Sitting on over .42 acre flat lot you will find inside 2 bedrooms and 2 baths with newer carpeting, vinyl flooring, dual pane windows and doors. Remodeled guest & master baths, indoor laundry and $599,980 more.

Cowell Terrace, Concord - Spacious townhome in great location. Inside you will find 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, master suite with split bath and walk-in closet, indoor laundry and separate living and dining room. Relax out on the courtyard with patio.

Walters Glen, Concord - This charming condo is located on the 2nd level with 2 balconies in a great location. Inside you will find newer carpeting and fresh paint, kitchen w/pantry and a separate dining area. You can also enjoy the beautiful community pool and patio areas.

Concord/Clayton Border - This 2 story large home has fresh paint inside 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 baths and over 2,100 sq ft of living space. Kitchen with eating area, family room off the kitchen and formal living & dining room. You will also find nearby hiking trails. $729,980 Backs to open space.

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How to win in today's market! Free Educational Seminars examine the market & process. Chock full of valuable tips and strategies. Presented by Inge Yarborough & guest panel.

Buyers:

Date/Time: Oct. 25, 7-9 pm & Oct. 29, 10-12 noon Location: Fidelity National Title, 3100 Oak Rd., Ste. 100, Walnut Creek Registration: Seating is limited. Cost: Free – but donations to Habitat for Humanities are appreciated

Oct 21, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A3

Around Town

CVHS Homecoming celebration 2005

You can always tell when Clayton Valley High School's homecoming comes rolling along. The excitement is contagious, especially in downtown Clayton when homecoming royalty, clubs, cheerleaders and of course the marching band descend on Main Street for their traditional parade on Wednesday before the big game. There’s lots of noise, lots of smiles, fun costumes and a lively tribute to the Eagles football team. At Friday’s game, Oct. 7, the senior King and Queen were announced and this year's crowns went to two Claytonians, Stupka and Scott Bowen. Although the Eagles lost to Novato 14-0, spirits were high and fans cheered to their hearts content.

1. King and Queen Nicole Stupka and Scott Bowen. 2. Senior Women. 3. Freshman royalty Joey Levine and Danielle Bebo. 4. Sophomore royalty Dean Farley and Loriel Yachdav. 5. Junior royalty Megan Roberson and Scott Butler. 6. CVHS marching band. 7. Senior Men. 8. CVHS varsity cheerleaders. Photos by Tamara Steiner and Jill Bedecarré

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Page A4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 21, 2005

Around Town

State Farm7

Claytonians named to Martial Arts Hall of Fame Three Claytonians were recently inducted into the U.S. Martial Arts Hall of Fame at the organization’s annual awards banquet in Burlingame, CA. Evelina Lengyel received the 2005 Outstanding Coach award. Lengyel was one of the head coaches that brought back a winning team from the First World Traditional Wushu Festival in Zhengzhou, China in 2004.

Barbieri family welcomes baby Julia

Many of her students are recipients of awards from local, national and international competitions. Joshua Wolf was awarded the 2005 Kung Fu Instructor of

the Year in recognition for his commitment to the perpetuation of the history and style of Choy Li Fut kung fu. This year Joshua traveled with the Plum Blossom International

Andrew Lengyel, Sifu Evelina Lengyel and Joshua Wolf

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Federation to the hometown of Chan Heung, the founder of Choy Li Fut, and met the founder’s great grandson, Chan Sun Chui. Andrew Lengyel received the award for 2005 Outstanding Male – Forms. This past August, Andrew was invited to perform for important delegates in the cities of Jiangmen, Fut San, and King Mui, China. Locally, he is the current AMAPA Grand Champion for the East Bay Challenge. The USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame originated in the mid 1970’s under the United States Karate Alliance. In 1992 Dr. Jim Thomas, co-founder, brought this Hall of Fame to another level by honoring martial arts practitioners from other martial art styles.

MDES screams for ice cream

JULIA BARBIERI

The Barbieri family welcomed Julia Christine Barbieri on Sept. 2, weighing in at 6 lbs. 5 oz and measuring 19.5 inches. The daughter of Barbara and Paul Barbieri, Julie joins her two year old brother Eli at the family’s Morgan Territory home. Baby Julia’s grandparents are Dennis and Gail Barbieri of Clayton, Dave and Judy Carlson of Fergus Falls, Minnesota and Roger and Jean Kube of Wendell, Minnesota.

Mt. Diablo Elementary held an Ice Cream Social fundraiser on Fri., Oct. 7 from 5-8 p.m. when 610 people were served dishes of ice cream. The school made $1,425 for the PFC, which supports many of the programs such as the computer lab and the library. The party was co-chaired by Linda Martin, Sydney Alcock and Lisa York. The day before the event the scheduled ice cream distributor pulled out and left the even ice creamless. However, through a generous donation from the Clayton Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA), the night was a hit. The CBCA donated the ice cream so that the party could go on.

Val Stratford of Mount Diablo Realty gave out 500 bottles of water for free, SCORE Education Center of Clayton was on hand with free balloons

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Home features include: 2 bedrooms, 1½ bathrooms, 1,050 sq. feet of living space. This unit faces a Offered for beautiful greenbelt area. Home $324,000 features include tile kitchen, upgraded baths, new closet doors in master bedroom, freshly painted, newer air conditioning, ceiling fans and new slider to this cute tiled patio. Community pool and laundry. Well maintained unit in a quiet location.

HOME OWNER'S PRIDE! Lovely single story home with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2,437 square feet of living space on a large lot. Great floor plan, circular front entry way, spacious living Offered for $699,000 room and dining area, tile kitchen with island and breakfast nook. Beautiful professionally landscaped front and back yards with private mediterranean style courtyard with fountain. A definite Must See Home!

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October 21, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Classified HELP WANTED Oakhurst Country Club: two banquet captains, two part time morning and evening restaurant servers, two morning and evening banquet servers, one bartender, one morning fitness employee, and one full time landscaper/ maintenance worker. Flexible hours and golf privileges. Fax resume to (925) 6720148, or e-mail gm@oakhurstcc.com; or apply in person at 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton.

LOST Cat, White Persian, neutered, declawed, 10 years old. Lost from Feather Circle on March 7. Please call 672-6938. Clayton letter carrier lost ring on Saturday October 8 while delivering mail. Please call 672-4337 or 671-7949.

MISCELLANEOUS Woman seeking mothers' groups or playgroups. Please call Lanay Morrison at 5240775

Cozy cabin in South Lake Tahoe. 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 1 car garage. Great for a family or 2 couples. 10 minutes to Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Lake, casinos, skiing, and hiking. Please call Mike Risso @ (925) 890-4623. Tamarindo, Costa Rica - Steps to the beach, 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo. Call Carolyn Walsh at 925 381-3269 or www.dannyhankrentals.com. Cute House for Rent. 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, big yard, new kitchen, fresh paint throughout, RV parking. Animals welcome outside only. Gardening and water included. RSVP 925-759-2082, ask for Billy or Sylvia. $1,250 monthly. Deposit $1,300 or $1,800 with animals. Oakley.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED The Clayton Community Library Foundation is currently seeking to fill the

following volunteer positions: Lead Tutor (adult preferred) to act as liaison and match the needs of the student/parent requests with a volunteer tutor. Experience as an educator is not required. Scrapbook Historian - (adult preferred) to document the fun and interesting activities and events our local library provides for the community. Duties will include collecting newspaper clippings, flyers, photos, etc. of the events and placing them in the library scrapbook. May work at home. Events Photographer (min. age 16 years) to take simple 35mm and/or digital (to pass along to our webmaster) photographs of various library events to put on display in the library and be placed in the library scrapbook by the historian. Shelver - (min. age 13 years) to shelve and sensitize books in the library. Will train, day/time is Tuesday a.m. Call Arlene at 673-9777, e-mail akikkawa@ccc.lib.org or leave a message for Arlene at the Clayton Library.

SERVICES Licensed Daycare. 10 years experience. Regency woods, Clayton, all ages. PT/FT. Large day care room, large backyard. Indoor/outdoor activities, Clayton Library trips. Call Laura 524-0190. Need tutoring in math or Japanese? Algebra, trig, pre-calculus, calculus, and more. Middle school through community college students welcome. Tutor is UC Berkeley grad, now a stay-at-home mom. Call Noriko at 459-0128. $25/hr at my home near Pine Hollow Middle School.

TAMARA

Tutoring - elementary school teacher available for tutoring in all areas. Clayton resident. please call Leslie @ 672-8111

AND

P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580 R OBERT S TEINER , Co-Publishers

TAMARA S TEINER , Editor J ILL B EDECARRÉ , Assistant Editor and Display Advertising J IM Z EWAN , Sports

Tutor - (min. age 13 years) to tutor or give homework help at the library to local students in our community. You choose the age range, subjects, remedial help or light homework help, days/times.

P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant

Judi Jewett, MA.CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist Child Language Specialist Literacy support for teens Afternoon, evening and weekend hours, 925699-4160

Member of the California Newspaper Publishers Assoc.

Honey-Do List? Magic Hammer Remodeling Let me help.

Licensed Daycare. Black Diamond, Clayton. Ages newborn to 2 years old. Part time/full time. Loving and caring environment. Call Sholeh 673-1722. License # 073404952.

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Perennial Garden Design by Nicole Hackett AKA The Garden Girl. Personal consultations regarding plant choices, placement, identification, fertilizing and maintenance. Spring is just around the corner. Call or email for information and pricing. 925673-1746 (leave message) GardenGirl94517@aol.com

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Page A5

PIONEER INFO

Directory of Advertisers

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 office with your credit card information. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance.

Abbey Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Aircloud Wireless Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 Alise Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7701 All Loving Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0752 American Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .939-4800 Apronstrings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-7621 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .726-0154 Bay Arts Custom Children's Murals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .323-9323 Beautique Beaury Supply and Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0405 Benton, Mureleen - American Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-4523 Brown Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5305 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Cegielski Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-2855 Café Santee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429-3320 Candy Created Bouquets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6818 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 Clayton Fitness and Tanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2010 Clayton Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4664 Clayton Home Inspection Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9405 Clayton Sports Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8445 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clayton Valley Frameworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6066 Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4848 Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5198 Clayton Valley Villa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8401 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 ComUnity Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5363 Consignment Treasures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .671-7002 Contra Costa County Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-4400 Contra Costa Musical Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .943-7469 Cookies by Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .256-1137 Crocker Insurance Agency - Sam Totah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .941-1536 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Diablo Car Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .691-4529 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-5100 Donna's Gifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2440 Dryclean USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5653 Eagles Peak Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .465-0435 Elysium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1333 Englund's Tea Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8327 Essential Skin Care by Linda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0850 Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Coldwell Banker Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8787 Great Start Home Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-1008 Help You Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-4950 Hobson's Digital Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-0726 Home Equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9737 Hudak, Jim - Pianist and Composer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-7293 Instant Imprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9815 Integrity Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-493-5437x402 Joanna's Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8911 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .939-7920 Lerner Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-1130 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Magic Hammer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0949 Maverick's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-5600 Mazzei Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5600 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Merrigan, Deanna - Mt. Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9990 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 Morgan, Yvonne - Security Pacific Real Estate Svcs. . . . . . .974-7675 Morningside Horse Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3632 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . .280-8563 NBS Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-1845 Neptune Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-5100 Oakhurst County Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Pardi, Roxanne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8863 Pasos de Mt. Diablo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4467 Pavilion Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6868 Pro-Tech Heating and Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-3776 R & L Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2600 R&M Pool, Patio & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0207 Rahimzadeh, Helen - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .932-7375 Rodie's Feed and Country Store and Self Storage . . . . . . . .672-4600 Roberta Claire Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .625-1123 Robin's Nest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4600 Robin's Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-6105 Smith Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6461 Sobotka Air Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-9300 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 St. John's Episcopal Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8855 Stone Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-2094 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 The James Gang . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .974-7678 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Truesdell, Lisa - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-4747 Van-Fleet-Bronson, Intero Real Estate Services . . . . . . . . . .672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2300 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4433 Weekends at the Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0744 Wooden' It Be Nice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5595 Williams, Mike - Rath Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-5363 Winner's Circle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5305 Zandonella's Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-1700

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.” E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com

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Page A6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 21, 2005

Make homeowners’ insurance a top priority before you buy

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ESTATE

For years, real estate agents have advised their clients to get preapproved for a mortgage before they start looking at houses. Today, getting preapproved for a loan may not be enough to prepare you to be a bona fide buyer. You also need

to know that you’re insurable. Homeowner’s insurance is required to close any home purchase where a new mortgage is involved. A mortgage lender won’t give you a loan unless you have hazard insurance on the property with the lender named as an additionally insured. If you can’t get insurance, you can’t have the loan. So, lining up homeowner’s insurance should be a top priority. Given current conditions in the insurance industry, purchase contracts may begin to include a clause that makes the purchase contingent on the buyer’s ability to obtain homeowner’s insurance. Homeowner’s insurance carriers have recently been hit

Impact, from page A1 Some of the inmates who have been released since Collette became involved were “lifers,” serving life sentences for serious crimes. “This was so unusual,” Collette says. She explained that two of the men were paroled during Gov. Grey Davis’s term. And this is significant because Davis ran on a ticket that killers would never be released, she explains. Project IMPACT made a difference. Both men changed their life through their associa-

COLLETTE CARROLL

tion with the program. Collette says they were exemplary inmates and had a positive influence on fellow prisoners. There’s Pat, who was serving a life sentence. He was paroled in 2001 and is now a college graduate and homeowner, married with two children. Kevin Kemp, another “lifer” paroled in 2003, remarried his ex after 13 years of separation and is now employed as a counselor. Sterling was paroled this year and is now a business owner, married with one daughter. Eddie, another lifer, is a journeyman sheet metal worker and artist who attributes his freedom and success to Collette. “”I might have sunk back into old thinking ‘that I will never go home’ had it not been for the strengthening words and bright smile I received from her after one disappointing parole hear-

ing,” he says. “Today I celebrate my freedom, because of people, like Collette.” Tim was paroled in 2000 and was the only inmate who was not serving a life sentence. These five former inmates were the founding fathers of IMPACT, a group of men who came together in 1995 under the direction of San Quentin’s Chaplain Earl Smith in response to the overwhelming number of children whose fathers were incarcerated. Colette admits that her involvement in IMPACT wasn’t planned. She had been singing at the prison for 13 years helping out her husband, Roland, who was involved in prison ministry there. “I sang, that’s all I did for all those years,” she said. And then Chaplain Smith asked Roland and Collette to be a part of a team to advance an idea he had to start an outreach program for men getting out of prison, a program that would help the men with jobs, housing and drug rehabilitation. “The next thing I knew I was going to the prison every Monday morning at 10 a.m. and I was there until 5 or 6.” The incarcerated men planning the program knew exactly what they wanted to say and Collette would sit at a computer and put it all together. And the end result was the beginnings of the IMPACT program which promotes Accountability, Integrity and Responsibility (AIR). “It’s all about choices and consequences,” Collette explains. For Collette the program is unique in that it is developed and delivered by ex-offenders and prisoners. “They’ve already done the introspection and know where they went wrong,” and she explains that these men have a burning desire to try and reach young people before they make the same mistakes that they made. “They want to be in

with skyrocketing costs due to an increased number of mold and water-related damage claims. In an effort to control costs, carriers have become hyper-diligent about who they will insure, and what properties they will insure. For years, insurers have scrutinized applicants to make sure they were a good financial risk-checking credit reports and scores. Now, they also look at your claims record to see if you’re a good insurance risk. Insurance carriers are also checking out the property to make sure its claim record is clean before they’ll agree to write a policy. This means that you could have a squeaky-clean record, but you could be denied Richmond and Oakland and in Stockton and in Los Angeles and in Contra Costa County. They want to be telling these young men ‘don’t do what I did because it’s not the answer.’” It is this desire to take IMPACT to the streets that gets Collette discouraged. “I can’t make IMPACT move along as fast as I want to due to the fact that it’s very difficult today to get financial support,” she said. IMPACT is, however, making strides outside of the prison walls. The California Youth Authority is offering the program and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has expressed an interest. Recently Collette and a group of facilitators traveled to Philadelphia to present their program to prison wardens. Collette would like to see the program offered in juvenile hall, middle school and high school and she would like to see an IMPACT program for women In the meantime, Collette puts most of her energy into the inmates at San Quentin who are changing their lives through the IMPACT program. Some have long prison terms, others are about to be released in a few months. “It doesn’t matter because change starts within each of them, she says. “You can improve your environment no matter where you are by improving who you are.” “Just because you’re in prison doesn’t mean that you have to stay a bad person.” Kevin, who served 19 years, describes the IMPACT program as one of the bright spots during his incarceration. He writes in a recent newsletter “I credit the IMPACT program for giving me the tools to become the responsible man, father, son and husband I am today. The message is that in order to become responsible men, we must put away childish behaviors and thought processes. For more information on the IMPACT program visit the website at www.projectimpact.us

insurance if a claim or two has been filed on the property you’re attempting to buy within the last 5 years. Most insurers participate in a claims-sharing database, the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE). CLUE reports detail every claim made on a property during the last 5 years. A homeowner can obtain a copy of the Clue report on his home online at www.choicetrust.com for less than $15. A buyer cannot directly access the Clue report on a property unless the seller provides a copy. However, an insurance agent who has access to Clue can, and will, check the claims record.

for general information, be sure to begin the conversation by saying: “This is hypothetical.” Before you go house hunting, talk to an insurance agent to see if you’re insurable. If your purchase contract doesn’t include an insurance contingency, find out if the house is insurable at a price you can live with before you remove your inspection contingency. You can probably find insurance to cover a home with a bad CLUE report, but the cost may be prohibitive.

Insurers are also tightening up with already insured homeowners. Long-time insured customers may not be renewed if they have submitted a claim in the last year. To make matters worse, what you think is a casual inquiry, the insurer may interpret as a claim. A woman who had been with an insurer for over 10 years, called to ask if damage caused by a leaky roof would be covered by her policy. However, the insured never made a formal claim. She replaced the roof and repaired the damage herself. But the insurer dropped her at the next renewal date. Her benign inquiry qualified as an unpaid claim. If you call your insurer

For any real estate needs or questions contact Lynne at: Phone (925) 672-8787 or E-mail: Lynne@LynneFrench.com

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Mayor, from page A1 spite of the state continuing to change the definition of what qualifies as affordable housing. Myth: Affordable Housing draws a bad element that can’t afford to live here. It is a great deal more difficult to qualify for affordable housing under Clayton’s program than it is to rent a house within the City of Clayton. To rent you have to come up with the first and last month’s rent and probably a security deposit. Some landlords do a background and credit check but a great many skip the cost of that and

go with their gut. The Clayton affordable housing program has three levels depending on income and the size of the household. The levels are very low income, low income and moderate income. Income limits vary by household size across the three income levels. For a family of three the three limits are: $37,250, $59,600 and $88,800. For a family of five it would be $44,700, $71,550, $106,550. The cost of the house is adjusted under the program but you still have to qualify for a

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bank mortgage and with their money on the line, the banks do check you out. Myth: Clayton wastes water watering open space. Some, who move here from out of state, in the winter when the hills are green, believe the city waters the hills. The city has had phone calls in the spring and early summer when the hills turn golden complaining about the city turning the water off. While it might be nice to have the hills green year round, the city only waters city installed landscaping near the roads and trails. You would also need a grass that stays green year round without water and that species has yet to evolve. Myth: Clayton has lots of money. Since I moved here in 1979 I have heard over and over that the city has a secret stash of money. This is definitely not the case. All of the funds the city has are noted in the annual audits that, by law, are done by an independent auditor. These records are open to the public. A number of people, convinced there are other monies, have studied this data and have not found anything. Clayton is the smallest city in the county and has both the smallest budget and the lowest sales tax base. The city spends very frugally. Myth: Clayton was given the “grove” area down town, so the city should immediately develop it. Neither the grove nor any other city owned undeveloped property was given to the Clayton. Developers have given land for parks and open space as required by the conditions of approval. The grove was purchased by the city in 1999 for $500,000. The original intent was a retail/park combination with the retail sales tax covering the park maintenance. In a vote by the people, the land was designated as a park site but no funds were provided for development or maintenance. The city has been able to collect funds to develop the Downtown Park and the passage

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of Measure M will provide money to maintain the finished park. Myth: The 4th of July Celebration can be on another day. Every year there are calls to City Hall asking what day the 4th of July parade will be on? The City has and will always celebrate the 4th of July on the 4th of July no matter what day of the week it falls on. Myth: You can do whatever you want on your own property. We would all like to think this is the case but there are a number of regulations which prevent this. Without regulations for example we could have cars on blocks on front lawns. The most common addition to many backyards seems to be a shed. However, unless the shed is less than 150 sq. ft., it needs a permit. Even if it does not need a permit it has to meet location regulations such as being three feet from the side property lines. You also need a permit to cut down a tree if it meets certain measures. If you are making any changes on your property, you need to check with City Hall. Myth: There is plenty of vacant land in Clayton. There is little undeveloped land within the city limits. Clayton is just about 100 percent built out. The hills around the city are all open space and in many instances too unstable for building without expensive engineering. Any additional building will be on the remaining small parcels or so-called “granny units” on larger lots. Myth: If I don’t have garbage pickup I don’t have to pay. You have to pay because there is an assumption that every property generates garbage and it has to be disposed of somewhere. California is very environmentally concerned. This concern expresses itself in the subject of garbage and trash disposal. The current focus is on recycling since we currently do not have 100 percent compliance (but that’s a topic for another day). If

you can’t fill your 96 gallon garbage bin you should call the collector and get a smaller bin Myth: The city wastes money. This is patently untrue. We are the most frugal city in the county. We watch every cent because there are so few of them. We try to leverage every dollar we spend. We are always looking for grants and our public works crew is the most efficient and productive in the county. Myth: Clayton has as much crime as any other place. Not true! Clayton has the second lowest level of crime in the State of California for cities under ten thousand people. There are a number of factors that contribute to this. We have a small but efficient police force. They

Club News The Rotary Club of Clayton Valley-Concord Sunrise and in association with Got E-Waste Inc. of San Leandro put on what might be the largest collection of electronic waste in the nation. On Oct. 7-9, in cooperation with the City of Concord, the Rotarians used the Chronicle Pavilion to collect almost a million pounds of old computers, monitors, component equipment, old TVs and stereo equipment that had seen better days. Club members helped to process over 6,000 vehicles laden with electronic junk. A line of cars, trucks and even a motorcycle wound around the Pavilion parking lot while 25-30

are well led and motivated. They have the support of the people of Clayton. We also have a large number of residents who are at home, watchful and not afraid to call the police if they see something out of the ordinary. We also benefit from demographics and location. Cities near major highways always have a higher crime rate. Like freedom, a low crime rate results from eternal vigilance. Hopefully some of these “small town” myths have been debunked. Myths can only exist when the true facts are not known. If you have any questions about the City of Clayton you should go on to the city’s Web site. www.ci.clayton.ca.us or call City Hall at 673-7300. laborers from Got E-Waste unloaded and stacked the equipment. Rotarians collected the state required form and passed out brochures about their club. President Warren Taylor, CPA and Past President Richard Lueck, Century 21 Real Estate Broker flagged cars to a place where they could be unloaded. The public was delighted to have a place to dump their former high tech stuff without the customary $25-$35 fee for disposal. “It is great we can keep all this junk out of the land fill and salvage some of the metals from the equipment.” said Public Relations Chairman Chuck Graham. Below, view from above the Pavilion parking lot of the E-waste collected.

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Letters to the Editor In a Letter to the Editor, Clayton resident Gene Snow lists his reasons for voting no on Measure M. In the interest of accuracy and clarity, and in an effort to present a complete picture of the issues, the Pioneer asked Linda Pinder, former Community Services Commissioner and member of the Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee to respond point by point. Pinder’s responses are in italics. The Pioneer sincerely thanks both Mr. Snow and Ms. Pinder for their valuable input on this important Measure. TOP TEN REASONS TO VOTE AGAINST CLAYTON’S PROPOSED LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT INCREASE

1. It’s too expensive. LP: If we do not renew the district at a rate sufficient to adequately maintain the landscaping, eventually the decline will become so serious as to impact our property values. At that time it will be significantly more expensive to replace plants that have died, but which could have been saved by a more timely renewal of the district. 2. It will become more expensive as annual CPI increases are added. The CPI to be used reflects expensive items such as housing and medical care costs in one of the most expensive areas in the nation. Those costs have nothing to do with landscaping. LP: The Consumer Price Index, while not perfect, is the best economic factor to use in assessing the cost of living for a certain period. To be accurate, it must reflect ALL price changes, even housing and medical, because changes in these items are almost immediately reflected in the cost of labor and materials. The CPI is used in virtually all budgeting and forecasting, both for public agencies and in private industry. 3. It will be collected through our property taxes, the most regressive tax round. It will keep going higher and it will never decrease or go away.

LP: Yes the costs will probably keep getting higher, just as the cost of everything else in life goes higher due to inflation. And yes it will never go away, as this is a “maintenance” cost. If you are a homeowner, the cost to adequately maintain your home never goes away. You have ongoing costs for insurance, utilities, roof repairs, exterior painting, and even landscaping. While you may choose to forgo maintenance in your own backyard, the public landscaping should not be left to die off. 4. It rewards the City for installing, or having developers install, landscaping it knew it could not afford to maintain. LP: Punishing the City for what is perceived by some as a past mistake does nothing to solve the current problem. We cannot go back in time to correct a past mistake - but need to address the current reality. 5. It will pay for the operation of a large water fountain, the building of which was questionable, in an area where water is very expensive because of its relative scarcity. LP: Water in the fountain recycles continuously. It is not consuming new water all the time. The primary cost for the fountain is the cost of electricity for the pumps; hence, the conservative recommendation to run it only on weekends. The fountain is a key feature in the “sense of place” of Clayton. It definitely was a draw for me when I made my decision to move to Clayton 12 years ago. The cost of operating the fountain on weekends

Measure M, from page A1 deferred projects including the repair and upgrading of the city’s antiquated irrigation system. Money to build the park will not come from the new assessment. Those dollars are available now from restricted funds designated for that purpose. And finally, Measure M will establish a Citizen’s Advisory Committee, a watchdog group which will oversee and monitor the city’s

landscape spending. If Measure M does not pass before the current district expires, the city will be left with no source of funding for landscaping. There is no provision in the city’s general fund to pay for landscape maintenance, which is currently running about $573,000 a year. The assessment brings in $542,000, leaving a shortfall of about $31,000 in the district’s annual budget. The

represents only about $5 out of the proposed $365 annual assessmentabout 10 cents a week for the pleasure of having the fountain operating on the weekends. 6. It will also pay for upgrade of sign areas at City and neighborhood entrance points to the tune of over $296,000, upgrades that are nice but unnecessary. LP: The City entrance signs already exist and two of them are installed. A third one is in storage in the City Corporation Yard awaiting installation at the yet-to-be designated location on Marsh Creek Road for the eastern entrance to the City. The estimated costs in the Blue Ribbon Landscape Committee’s report are for improved landscaping to these gateways to the city. They are expensive because no irrigation system exists at any of these locations. It will be the charge of the Citizens Oversight Committee to determine design and costs for these suggested improvements and to rank their importance for installation. 7. It will establish a Citizen’s Oversight Committee that will be charged with reducing the annual assessment amount when too much money has been collected. Anyone want to buy a bridge? What politician has not spent every cent available to him or her? LP: The purpose of the Oversight Committee is to make sure that the money collected is allo-

shortfall has been covered by drawing down on the district’s reserves. The reserve account will run dry in 2007. What happens if Measure M does not pass and the current district expires? The city’s annual operating budget is $3.4 million. $1.6 million of that goes to the police department leaving $1.8 million to run the city. “There is absolutely no way I’ll find $573,000 in the general fund,” said City Manager Gary Napper, “there is no sugar daddy.”

cated fairly and intelligently throughout the district. Expenditures will have to be prioritized and hard choices will still have to be made to ensure that all areas of the district receive equitable landscaping services. This is the charge of the Oversight Committee. 8. It does not seem to concern itself with any serious attempt at reduction of current or future landscape maintenance costs by changing the way things are done; it just adds a costly burden on all of us. LP: After almost two years of examining the issues, the recommendations to City Council include MANY changes in how things are done. For example, under Measure M, new subdivisions will be required to have their own special assessment districts for their own public landscaping. The Committee also recommends hardscape installation in some areas where landscaping has not been successful. 9 It will reduce the amount of money the citizens have available for the increased and increasing cost of energy, especially gasoline and natural gas for heating, medical care, food and just about every other necessity. Choosing between survival and an expensive water fountain is not difficult. LP: I doubt that anyone in Clayton will have to choose between survival and running the fountain. This is ridiculous hyperbole and obscures the very real issues. The cost of maintaining the water fountain comes to about 10 cents per week per household. I can’t imagine that anyone who can afford to live in Clayton is going to miss 10 cents a week. 10. It is too expensive. LB: It would be more expensive not to. Letter submitted by Gene Snow, responses by Linda Pinder.

neighborhoods and our entire community can enjoy these visual landscaping improvements upfront rather than your neighborhood having to wait until year 15 to get its longawaited public landscaping. The remaining $296 per year provides the proper level of maintenance monies to care for the entire District at our Committee’s defined acceptable maintenance standards. For example, the passage of Measure M insures the current fire hazard/weed abatement program can be done twice a year rather than only once a year as it is now. What guarantees do I have that the mistakes of the past will not be repeated? Measure M includes the creation of a Citizens Oversight Committee, a permanent

Council-appointed advisory committee charged with over-

“When we consider what separates Clayton from our surrounding neighbors, within the top of the list has to be what landscape designers call ‘a sense of place.’” Dan Richardson, Chair, Blue Ribbon Landscape Committee sight of the District’s future direction and annual budgets. By establishing continued citi-

Questions to ponder If vegetable oil comes from vegetables, where does baby oil come from? Is there another word for synonym? If a turtle doesn’t have a

shell, is he homeless or naked? If a man is standing in the middle of the forest speaking and there is no woman around to hear him, is he still wrong? Did you ever notice that

zen involvement in the District, Measure M guarantees we build on past success and avoid past mistakes. Part of the public record of Measure M includes our set standard of maintenance levels that was missing in the existing District’s measure adopted by voters in 1997 (see the “Proposed Maintenance Standards” chart on the City’s website under the Ballot Measure M section). When we consider what separates Clayton from our surrounding neighbors, within the top of the list has to be what landscape designers call “a sense of place.” A part of that place is defined by the elusive quality of public landscaping that subtly but unmistakably tells us “we are home”. By voting “Yes” on Measure M, you invest in your community “front yard” and appearance, and help insure Clayton remains the desirable place it is.

when you blow in a dogs face he gets mad at you but when you take him in a car, he sticks his head out the window? If they arrested the Energizer Bunny, would they charge him with battery?

MEASURE M REBUTTAL IS FACTUALLY INCORRECT

Dear Editor: Because we value free speech in this country, there is no governmental monitoring of the information or misinformation presented in favor or against a measure that appears on the voter’s ballot. The Measure M rebuttal argument, which appears on page five of the Voter Information Pamphlet, contains factually incorrect material. As a member of the Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee, I can’t let the “Rebuttal to Argument in Favor of Measure M” go unchallenged. If you turn to page five, we can go over the four paragraphs together. The rebuttal states that the committee chair is an attorney. Dan Richardson is NOT an attorney. He is Director of a Walnut Creek City Department; a professional responsible for Walnut Creek’s public landscaping, and a man who loves living in Clayton. He has provided and continues to provide expert advice on public area landscaping to the Committee. There is nothing disguised about the $2.8 million bond. This is the maximum amount that will be spent on the extensive landscape capital improvements needed in the Community Facilities District (CFD). There are no additional “Mello-Roos” taxes. The state “Mello-Roos” legislation merely sets the legal criteria on how the CFD is to be re-established for Measure M. Measure Q, approved by the voters in 2000 provided that the building of the “Grove Park” be paid for from any new general fund revenues. It did not provide for a continuing source of funds for maintenance of the park or any other landscaping

capital improvements. The “Grove Park” will not be built with Measure M money. Measure M provides only for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the park. The rebutters of the argument in favor of Measure M may have “crunched” numbers but to get valid results you need to “crunch” the correct numbers. $2,800,000 is the maximum amount of roadway landscaping capital improvements to be financed over the fifteen-year life of Measure M. The fixed principle and interest will be paid off with 19 cents of the dollar a day related to the bonded portion of measure M. The $1,616,000 is the maximum operational amount, which can currently be raised from existing and projected parcels. The $2,800,000 (maximum capital budget) and $1,616,000 (initial total landscape budget) are not related to each other in the manner presented by the writers of the Rebuttal. The current landscape maintenance fee will expire in 2007. Measure M replaces and improves it. Current landscape maintenance costs are paid out of the Landscape Maintenance District, not out of the general fund. The City’s general fund has no funds to replace the expiring landscape fee. While the writers of the rebuttal say the citizens should gather each month to clean and maintain the city’s landscaping, there is no record that ANY of the proponents HAVE EVER participated in any of the semiannual “Clayton Cleans Up” events. From the above, you can conclude that much of the information in the rebuttal argument is facetious and erroneous. -Bill Vineyard Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee

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Clayton’s Pat Mosca is a shining example of what it means to survive and thrive in today’s music business. From key member of an internationally famous rock band to composer of music for films and soundtracks, Mosca has endured. He wears multiple hats while making his art and business work for him. On a recent afternoon at his Mosca Music Studio in Moraga, Pat took some time to give an overview of his career in music and recording. His story serves as inspiration for both young people wondering how to get started and to older musicians wondering how to adapt to the new demands of the music industry. Pat began playing music when he was 8, studying accordion for 10 years. He then transferred his skills from accordion to piano, taking two years to complete the transition before he began playing keyboards in local bands. His big break came in his mid20’s, when he auditioned for and got the part of keyboardist in the Greg Kihn Band. (Greg Kihn happens to be another Clayton resident). The GKB enjoyed great success with numerous hit singles and albums in the 70’s and 80’s. They toured extensively, and appeared on featured TV shows including Saturday Night Live, Solid Gold, and American Bandstand. “I loved the guys I played with. It was part of the family environment that goes with being in a touring band,” says Mosca. “It was the time of my life.” By the late 80’s, Pat left the band and built his own recording studio in his home. He picked up knowledge of recording and studios entirely on his own, because “there were no classes or pro-

grams of study back then.” He moved into the area of scoring music for videos, offering to do the music for one of his friend’s videos free of charge. That went over so well that he did another, and then another, winning several awards. By now he was able to charge for his services, and a new phase of his career was born. In 1993, Pat moved to Clayton with his wife Tamela, who is the CFO for Mike McCall Landscape on Clayton Road in Concord. Pat likes the “family atmosphere” Clayton offers, and has two boys, Nick and Patrick. Nick, the

continued to write jingles, and music for soundtracks, films, and documentaries. Eventually, he began to long for more interaction with other musicians and composers. “I was drowning in my own ideas,” he says, “and I wanted to collaborate with some other people.” He moved his operation to Danville, spending a year there and working in conjunction with Mike Chappel on car dealer commercials and more documentaries. Meanwhile, he began nurturing a growing interest in learning to make films and DVD’s.

Jim Hudak/Clayton Pioneer

MULTI-TALENTED PAT MOSCA (in his studio in Moraga) has endured for more than 30 years in the music industry. younger of the two, is already a fine classically trained pianist. But Pat quickly mentions that he won’t push a career of music on his son. “That will be entirely his own choice to make,” he says. Mosca produced and engineered recordings for various artists and bands, and operated his recording studio out of his converted garage until 2003. He

This led him to his current location in Moraga, where he shares studio space with Doug Reid, an accomplished musician, composer, and filmmaker. Doug operates under the business name “August Wolf Studios,” and he and Pat are working on numerous shows and projects together, including a new show on cooking that they are pitching to Fit TV.

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MUSIC NOTES Pat has advice for up and coming music business hopefuls. “Stay in school. Stay in college.” And for “old timers” trying to keep up with an ever-changing industry? “Go back to school. Go back to college.” One thing about Pat Mosca, he’s direct and to the point. When I asked if he had anything else he’d like to say, he stated in no uncertain terms, “Yes. I would like to see a stop sign at the corner of El Camino and Southbrook in Clayton.” (This is near where he lives). “I’ve seen too many near-fatal accidents there and a stop sign would really be helpful.” To those who make such decisions in Clayton, perhaps they’ll review that corner as a possible new location for a stop sign. For anyone else interested in music, Pat Mosca’s career might well serve as a shining example of a way to make it work. He has adapted to the changing the demands of the business while keeping his creativity alive.

Jim Hudak’s Music Notes column appears regularly in the Pioneer. Contact him at jimmydak@pacbell.net.

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idea and gave us their blessings. They told us they would find a way for us to make up the schoolwork we would be missing. We notified Red Cross that we could help. We found a way to juggle our school schedules and took the necessary training in order to go. We also received several inoculations and shopped for our supplies. We basically needed to be self-sufficient for 10 days and had to try and confine everything we would need in a backpack. We left for Louisiana on Sept. 8 and returned on Sept 18. When we first made the decision to join the Red Cross and help in the hurricane relief, neither of us fully understood what we would see or experience. The Red Cross was able to provide us all of our training and transportation in under a week’s time. It seemed like as soon as our bags were packed we were out the door and on our way. We arrived at Baton Rouge airport after a short eight-hour

flight. Fortunately we ran across other Red Cross volunteers who directed us to rent a car and make our way towards the head quarters in Baton Rouge. Avis informed us that we were lucky enough to rent their last vehicle. Once we arrived at the central headquarters for the Red Cross stationed in an old Walmart, we signed in and grabbed a space on floor to sleep. The following morning we were briefly trained and got assigned to go to a kitchen outside of New Orleans in Jefferson Parish where we would be feeding people in the residential community who were unable to evacuate. At Kitchen 15, our job consisted of operating an Emergency Response Vehicle converted into a kitchen on wheels. The E.R.V.s would navigate the affected communities, feeding as many families as possible. When we arrived at Kitchen 15 there were five E.R.V.s in operation, each feed-

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of about four young boys, each one no older than nine years of age. Day after day these boys would ride their bikes up and down each of the small streets of the residential community, hoping to catch a glimpse of our Red Cross E.R.V. Upon finding us, one would load up with food and carry as many meals as he could for his family. Many of the children were so hungry by the time they found us that they would eat there meals right on the side walk. Each day that we spent in Jefferson Parish we were amazed at that the grace and respect that the residents showed to the Red Cross and one another. Our trip to Louisiana was a great experience. There is still a big need for volunteers and a lot more work that needs to be done in order to restore the effected areas. However everyone who is down there is working hard and making their best effort to revitalize the many parishes that were destroyed. Andrea Mullins is the daughter of Clayton resident Debbie Mullins.

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Dishwasher salmon and hot rod trout? Oh my! So, I’m entertaining myself one weekend by going to a kitchen tour and eating my heart out over all the beautiful décor, when I walk into a heart-stopping kitchen: golden beige granite, terrazzo tile backsplashes, and natural light galore grace a cook’s delight. Capping it all off is a gleaming Dacor gas stove/electric oven range. Awe-inspired, I ask the lady of the house about her favorite dishes and I’m told that fish is a dinner staple. “So, what’s your next fish dish on the cook top?” I ask. “Well….,” she hesitates. “Actually, we were getting ready to make a friend’s recipe—dishwasher poached salmon.” For one of the few times in my life, I’m speechless, then intrigued. Exploring the concept of alternative cooking styles further, I discover Maynard and Schellers’ Manifold Destiny, a ‘90s iconographic cookbook about preparing hot meals on a car’s engine. No kidding, it’s been out of print for a few years and copies sell on Amazon.com for $39 to $80 each! Bob Blumer (a/k/a) “The Surreal Gourmet,” is of the same ilk, finding innovative ways to cook and serve foods. His 2000 book Off the Eaten Path is a hoot. I even dredge up my own history, when right out of college I trekked

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around North America as a museum archaeologist, cooking meals on occasion in a briquettecovered cast iron Dutch oven. I manage to twist the arm of Karen Pyne, a fellow Claytonian, to contribute her salmon recipe. She plans to test-drive, er, testcook her KitchenAid dishwasher sometime soon. DISHWASHER POACHED SALMON DINNER 4 salmon steaks lemon slices 1 onion, thinly sliced 6 oz. cream cheese 6 Tbsp heavy cream fresh dill white pepper to taste 1 lb. carrots, sliced 1/8” thick 1 Tbsp brown sugar ¼ c Cointreau (orange liqueur) Divide onions and lemon slices among the salmon steaks

and wrap each steak individually in heavy aluminum foil. (Be sure there are no cuts or holes in the foil.) Place on the top rack of the dishwasher and run through the normal cycle. This recipe recommends not running the DRY CYCLE, so check the fish for desired temperature and put the steaks back in the dishwasher for the dry cycle if needed. Meanwhile, prepare sauce by combining softened cream cheese, heavy cream, 1 to 2 Tbsp of fresh-snipped dill and white pepper to taste. Serve chilled or slightly warmed in microwave. Simmer the carrots in the liqueur and sugar until tender (on the stove, this time!). Add a tablespoon of water from time to time if needed. Brown and wild rice is a good accompaniment to this dinner. Manifold Destiny will entertain you page after page. Learn how to convert your hot rod into a hot cooking machine with dishes like Cutlass Cod Supreme, Cruise-Control Pork Tenderloin, Donner Pass Red Flannel Hash and Fupped Duck Catera. Bob Blumer’s recipes specify the proper preheating and cooking time for automotive cuisine. For one of his trout dishes, he recommends running the car around town for about 20 minutes, then pulling over to place the triple foil-wrapped packet of

prepared fish on a hot area of the engine (avoiding air intakes and any moving parts). Securing the packet in place with a balled up wad of foil making contact with the hood, drive another 50 miles, stop and check progress. If the fish needs a bit more time, drive another 20 to 30 miles. As Blumer points out, it shows your date that you’re willing to take the road less traveled to impress him or her. For the Boy or Girl Scout in you, Dutch oven cooking is an overlooked art. Using a cast iron pan 12” to 14” across with a flat lid, coals are placed underneath, on the sides and on top, depending on your cooking needs. If you want to cook at 325°F, add twice as many hot coals as the diameter of the pan (each additional charcoal briquette will add 10° to 15° to the cooking temperature). “Baking” requires three times as many coals on the lid as underneath the pot. If you don’t mind tending the cook pot a bit, the following baked bean recipe is mighty tasty on a cool fall evening around a campfire:

October 21, 2005 of cooking to avoid toughening the beans.)

pared beans and salt pork over the onions. Add the molasses, syrup, mustard, and pepper, then the remaining beans and top with salt pork. Top with reserved soaking water to cover the mixture and bake in coals for six hours. (Add salt only at the end

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

Patty Flannery Realtor

Clayton Resident since 1979

serving all your

Real Estate needs Call me

voicemail: 925.975.5255 residence: 925.672.0541 email: granyflany@hotmail.com

DUTCH OVEN BEANS 1 lb small dry navy beans 1 onion, coarsely chopped ½ lb. salt pork, chopped ¾ cup real maple syrup ½ cup molasses 1 Tbsp dry mustard 2 tsp pepper salt to taste Soak the beans overnight in enough water to remain covered. Reserve the water. Place onion in bottom of 12” to 14” Dutch oven. Place one-half of the pre-

Protest methods hurt students

DEIRDRE RUSCITTI

CVHS REPORTER Students throughout Mt. Diablo Unified School District are facing more than homework and tests this year. Closed doors, dismantled clubs and, in some cases, a lack of recommendation letters necessary to go to competitive colleges are all challenges facing students this year. Tensions have flared between MDUSD and the teacher’s union, Mt. Diablo Education Association. Teachers, who have been working without a contract since June 2004, have now unfortunately been forced to take dramatic measures. Last year, a Work to Rule policy was implemented. Under it, MDEA urged teachers to work only within their contract hours, which vary from teacher to teacher. For students, that translated into less help after school and during breaks, so that making up class work became an arduous

chore. It also meant the death of many clubs that met during lunch and after-school. I can understand why teachers needed to take this step— without it, their plight might have been ignored further. After all, very few people cared or paid attention to the issues until this conflict erupted to the point where it hurt the students. However, not all means teachers are using can be justified. At College Park High School, teachers announced they would stop writing recommendation letters for students’ college applications. Canceling lunchtime club meetings is one thing. But when students can’t get recommendation letters, it puts their future in doubt. Students who might be perfectly qualified to attend top colleges and universities might see their applications turned down because of a lack of teacher recommendations. That’s manipulative, hurtful and wrong on the part of the teachers participating. Luckily for myself and many other students, MDEA has not sanctioned what is occurring at College Park, and few teachers outside of College Park have followed suit. I would like to thank all teach-

ers who did not and will not participate in this horrible tactic. I also urge all teachers who are planning on withholding recommendation letters to take a look in the proverbial mirror. It’s students you’re harming, not the district. You are hurting the very people you are supposed to be helping. Soon, MDUSD will bring in an outside auditor to go through a process called fact finding. The auditor will comb through the financial records of the district and see if it is feasible to give teachers a wage and benefit raise. If there is

extra money, then MDUSD should allocate it for increasing teachers’ salaries. After all, they deserve it. If not, then teachers should accept the disappointing truth and eliminate their protest methods that hurt students. NOTE: My last column (“New Year, New Rules at CVHS,” published Sept 23) stated that sandals had been banned at Clayton Valley. This is not true, and I apologize for the mistake.

For comments or questions contact Deirdre at CVHS@claytonpioneer.com

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Members of z CCAR - Contra Costa Association of Realtors z DAR - Delta Association of Realtors z WCR - Women's Council of Realtors, z CREIA - California Real Estate Inspection Association, z ASHI - American Society of Home Inspectors z & elected officers for the Golden Gate chapter of CREIA

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October 21, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A11

HomEquity delivers personal service JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Greg Farrand and his HomEquity team are committed to making your real estate and financial decisions less stressful. Greg’s business philosophy focuses on personal communication and the ability to provide his customers with a variety of services all under one roof. Greg recently opened new offices on Clayton Road in Concord near Mt. Mikes Pizza. Greg admits real estate transactions can often be overwhelming with several parties involved adding confusion and frustration to an already emotional decision process. So Greg and his team step in to simplify the process and offer clients per-

Why choose HomEquity? We do it all to help you. . .

⌧ Sell your home ⌧ Find you a new home ⌧ Find you the best new mortgage

sonal service, guidance and expertise throughout the process of buying, selling, refinancing and finding the best mortgage. “It’s my goal to keep my company small so that service is always at the top of our list,” says Greg. He and his team also believe in keeping in constant communication with their client through the various processes so that “there are no surprises,” explains Greg. “One of the main advantages of utilizing the services of one company and one person through the purchase and sale of a home is that we are often able to save our client’s money and they like that.” Greg also realizes that buying and/or selling can be an anxious time for his clients and there is comfort in dealing with one person and one company that you can trust. “We have excellent business relationships with close to 100 lenders and it is our job to find our customers the best deal, says Greg. “The

Jill Bedecarré/Clayton Pioneer

The HomEquity Team: Linda and Tom Miller, Greg Farrand (seated) and Susanne Higgins most rewarding part of my job is knowing that you’ve helped someone realize their dream.” Greg lives in Clayton with his wife Simone and two boys, Hunter and Cole. In his spare

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Visit us at our new location at 5354 Clayton Road, Suites B1 & B2 Concord, CA 94521

CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL Community members, please be sure to renew your free Safeway eScrip donation by linking your Preferred Savings Card to Clayton Valley High School Parent Faculty Club before Nov. 1. Call 1800-801-4973 or click on www.escrip.com.

Greg Farrand, resident/Broker

phone: (925) 673-9737 fax: (925) 798-2100 email: gfarrand@homequity.us www.homequity.us

Committed to:

Family Service Faith

Certified Residential Specialist Selling real estate since 1981

School News DIABLO VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL Parents are needed 11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. to help campus supervisors patrol school grounds. Sign-up sheets are in the school office. The goal is to have a parent from every family work Parent Patrol once each school year.

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Congratulations to Lucian Lukach, the winner of the drawing and coloring contest. Lucian and his family are residents of Clayton. Lucian is a student at Diablo View Middle School. Thank you to all that particpated.

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Page A12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 21, 2005

Kitchen tour was a huge success LINDA WYNER Special to the Pioneer

October 8 was one of those wonderful fall days when the warm sun lures you outside to marvel at the lush golden hues of Northern California. The Clayton Valley Women’s Club chose that fine day to attract hundreds of people to ooh and aah over six equally lush and beautiful kitchens. Singly and in groups, we wandered up and down Clayton streets, and even detoured to the nearby hills of Concord, following tour signs to homes where we were greeted by welcoming CVWC docents. Gorgeous floral arrangements and gift baskets complemented the spic and span kitchens. Each home reflects the indi-

viduality of its resident chef(s). In one home Italian country décor is expressed in travertine tile flooring with a stunning bas-relief inset on the wall behind the six-burner Dacor stove. A huge center island doubles the cabinet space and holds a vegetable sink and recycle bins. A twin-drawer dishwasher drew lots of comments from the visitors. The meticulous attention Tim and Robin Grype invested in remodeling their home is evident the moment you step through the front door. The former galley kitchen has been opened up with warm red oak floors and cabinets. The eye pauses along the fine details of the kitchen, into the dining room overlooking the backyard, and on into the newly

expanded family room with a vaulted ceiling. The Grypes opted for dark green granite tiles rather than slab granite and their lustrous color sets off the gigantic Dynasty stove with its six burners, grill and griddle inserts. In the eating area, the family added a computer center, which is becoming a popular fixture in “wired” homes. Mexican foods are frequently found on the Grypes’ table. Tacos and burritos are midweek “fast” food selections, with grilled flank steak on the menu for more leisurely meals. The pullout spice cabinet next to the stove encourages the preparation of zesty dishes. Two nearly-new homes were on the tour this year. Spacious kitchen islands manage to invite

Photo courtesy of Linda Wyner

DARK

GREEN GRANITE TILES

set off the six burner Dynasty stove in Tim and Robin Grype’s kitchen.

Concord, 1862 Karas Court, $1,175,000 Gorgeous Single Story, 4 Bedrooms, Plus Office, 3 Full Baths, Situated on 1/2 Acre Lot, with One Year Old Royal Pool & Spa.

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onlookers while keeping them safely out of the cooking area. One of the homes utilized the space atop cherry wood cabinets to sport a beautiful basket collection. Built-in wine racks, appliance garages and built-in microwaves illustrate how easy it is to reduce countertop clutter. Exiting one of the homes, the visitors encounter an outdoor Shangri-La. An outdoor kitchen with a built-in stainless steel gas grill, sink, refrigerator and beer tap draws the family outside to enjoy the stereo, hot tub and even a beach-entry pool! One question was readily answered on the tour—can colored appliances fit into a kitchen décor? Yes! A bright red coffee pot and toaster breathes life into the cathedral-door oak cabinets, a red rooster motif rug and red ceramic dishware. A garden window, adjacent sunroom and canisters lights in the ceiling gracefully add warmth to this kitchen. Al and Karen Pyne hit a home run with their remodeled kitchen in their country ranch home. The “copper canyon” granite countertops weave together beige, brown, gold and grey specks into a light, inviting expanse. A curved peninsula provides seating and views into the family room and out toward the pool nestled between their porch and detached garage. The bay window frames the double stainless sink, which has Karen’s favorite feature—an instant hot water dispenser for morning tea. A flush-mount button on the counter near the sink operates the garbage disposal. Corners in kitchens often mean wasted space and unus-

Photo courtesy of Linda Wyner

AND

KAREN PYNE set their stove in the often wasted corner space.

able cabinets. The Pynes ingeniously installed their 6-burner Dacor gas range at an angle in their kitchen corner. A tiled backsplash draws the eye upward to the faux limestone range hood cover, imparting a Mediterranean feel to the kitchen. Al and Karen both took cooking classes offered at the Dacor culinary center and showroom in South San Francisco to learn how to cook using the new convection oven and microwave. They both enjoy fish and Al says that Karen excels in varying choices and methods of preparation. When they work up the courage, they plan to try out “Dishwasher Poached Salmon,” which of course utilizes the

s e d g n n a a h e C i d t s u O e e d t h i s n n o the I

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accent pieces for the kitchen and

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Antioch, 4008 Felsite Court, $649,000

Kimberly Morucci (925) 280-8 8563 kmorucci@interorealestate.com www.kimmorucci.com

KitchenAid appliance next to their sink. For their recipe, see this issue’s “Food for Thought” column. The Clayton Valley Women’s Club is celebrating 32 years of service to the community. Fundraising efforts help support non-profit organizations such as the Clayton and Concord historical societies, the Clayton Community Library, and this month’s “Think Pink” Breast Cancer Awareness program, as well as providing scholarships to graduates of Clayton Valley High School. Monthly meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Lutheran Church at Ygnacio Valley Road and Alberta Way in Concord.

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Richard A. Littorno Littorno & Morrison, Attorneys At Law “The planning solutions are here.”

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October 21, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Why advertise in the Pioneer? Here’s one reason: “I just wanted to relate to you what a great experience placing an ad in the Pioneer has been for me. Since the ad started running about two weeks ago for my mural painting business, Bay Arts, I have received numerous compliments on its professional look, and I am happy to say that today I am starting my first job as a result. I am amazed at the number of people that have come up to me in the last couple of weeks and said, “I didn’t know you painted murals, I have always wanted to get something done in my kitchen.” Or, “My sister is having a baby and she is looking for someone to paint a mural in the nursery. I’m so glad I saw your ad in the Pioneer.” If you do business in or around Clayton, I strongly recommend that you place an ad in the Pioneer. Trust me, you will be glad that you did.

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Page A13

Construction nearly complete on new buildings at CV Shopping Center

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BUILDINGS

at corner of Clayton Rd. and Washington Blvd. nearing completion

JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Amidst the construction dirt and dust during a major overhaul of Clayton Valley Shopping Center, signs of life are starting to emerge. According to Scott Franklin, vice president of investments for the developer, Regency Centers, the 8,500 square foot building facing Clayton Road is 100 percent leased. The color-scheme and architecture of the building is a reflection of what the entire center will look like once all construction and remodeling is complete, explains Franklin. The building will house

five tenants including Tachi Japanese Cuisine and Sushi Bar and Althea Corrine Day Spa, already located in the center, as well as new tenants Peets Coffee and Tea, Pick up Stix—a Chinese restaurant— and Denim and Lace, a children’s clothing store. Peets Coffee plans to open before the end of the year and the rest of the tenants, early next year. Guadalajara Restaurant will also move into it’s new 6,000 square foot building on Mt. Washington Blvd. early next year. The popular Mexican eatery will have three separate dining rooms, three cooking bays and a full bar. Longs Drugs lease has

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“Look Who’s Selling Clayton!” HELP-U-SELL REAL ESTATE SERVICES 4918 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94521 (925) 680-4950 283 d $10,2 aved Sold! Selllerr S

25 Long Creek Circle

Clayton

We sold our home on 1816 Yolanda Circle in Clayton in 4 days using Help-U-Sell & saved over $27,600 in real estate commissions. This was by far the best real estate experience we have ever had! We are so happy with the results that we recommended Help-U-Sell to all our neighbors. J. Mann

Sell Fast! Save Money

$569,000

26 Mt. Wilson Way

Clayton

$549,500

650 d $39,6 aved Sold Selllerr S

1830 Yolanda Circle

Clayton

$810,000

ng! Pendin

107 Crow Place

Clayton

$789,000

2 Bedrooms + den or 3rd bedroom, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,378 sq.ft. Gorgeous updated kitchen w/maple cabinets, tile counters and flr & built in microwave. Updated baths with maple cabinets & tile counters, dining room or den, spacious family room, tile floors & master bedroom upstairs. Absolutely gorgeous with decorator touches throughout! Must See!

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,378 sq.ft. Detached two story unit w/views of Mt. Diablo, updated kitchen & baths, dual pane windows, freshly painted & new carpet in most rooms. Large finished garage w/workbench & storage & private park like setting with large deck for entertaining.

3 bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 2,133 sq.ft. Gourmet eat-in kitchen w/granite counters, updated baths w/granite, spacious family room w/wet bar, fireplace & ceiling fan & living room with built in bookcase & French doors. Nicely landscaped front & backyard with retaining walls, pavers & automatic sprinklers.

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths. Approx. 1,877 sq. ft. Premium lot w/pool/spa & amazing views of golf course. Landscaped yard w/redwood deck. Pergo floors throughout, living/dining combo, spacious family room w/vaulted ceilings and wood burning stove insert & lots of windows throughout. Lovely kitchen w/gas stove, garden window, double oven, tile counter & oak cabinets.

030 d $32,0 aved Sold Selllerr S

450 d $32,4 aved Sold! Selllerr S

d $27,950 aved Sold! Selllerr S

d $38,150 aved Sold! Selllerr S

5019 Raven Way

Clayton

$679,000

25 Atchinson Stage Rd.

Clayton

$699,000

5830 Del Trigo Lane

Clayton

$565,000

30 Fleming Ct.

Clayton

$785,000

3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,493 sq. ft. Gorgeous home with living/dining room combo, vaulted ceilings, custom fireplace with mantle & central heat/air. Large eat-in kitchen w/breakfast bar, maple cabinets, tile counters & dishwasher. Huge master suite on first floor, dual pane windows, beautiful patio with cover perfect for entertaining & spa included! View of hills from this home & on a quiet street!

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

4 bedrooms, plus den, 2.5 baths, approx 2368 sq.ft. hardwood flrs, marble entry, gorgeous kitchen w/granite tile counters & gas stove & large master suite w/walkin closet & marble bathroom. Spectacular tropical backyard with pool/spa & waterfall, extended BBQ island w/slate counter, sink, eating area and tile patio. This home is an absolute must see to believe! An entertainers Dream!

d $32,150! aved Sold! Selllerr S

ys!! Sold in 4 Da6,110 3 $ d ed v a S r er l Sell

650! d $27,6 aved Sold! Selllerr S

600! d $45,6 aved Sold! Selllerr S

522 Mt. Davidson Court

Clayton

$685,000

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!

182 Mt. Wilson Way

Clayton

$751,000

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 hardwood 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!

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!

102 Forest Hill Drive

Clayton

5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, Gorgeous kitchen with granite counters, maple cabinets & island. Formal living w. fireplace & dining room, spacious family room w/fireplace. Open & bright throughout, inside laundry, 3 car garage, landscaped yards & Large master suite w/jacuzzi tub!

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.

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been signed, according to Franklin, and although the lease for Nob Hill Foods has not yet been signed, Franklin said that plans for the upscale market are moving forward. Long’s will have a new store with a drive-through pharmacy and Nob Hill will be housed in a 59,000 square foot building. A few yards away from Longs, construction continues on a new Pet Food Express, which is set to open February of next year, according to Michael Levy, president and founder. The 6,000 square foot retail store will feature over 5,000 items including a large selection of holistic pet food and a self-serve pet wash.

Visit our new office at 4918 Clayton Road

Page A14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 21, 2005

georgevujnovich.com

Trust your home to

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FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

JUST LISTED! Dramatically upgraded! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths + loft, approx. 3,079sf. Downstairs den, bedroom or separate formal dining room. Upgrades incl: plantation shutters & wood blinds, crown molding, designer paint & lighting package. Gourmet kitchen with granite counters, island & full backsplash. Expanded family room with custom media center. Spacious master. Private lot backs to open space with extensive hardscape & professionally manicured grounds. $959,000

JUST LISTED! Beautifully appointed! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 2,894sf & 3 car garage. Upgraded 12" Italian marble floors extend from entry thru kitchen. Neutral décor & carpet throughout. Gourmet tile kitchen with pantry. Expanded family room with upgraded stacked stone fireplace. Large master suite. Totally private lot backs to oak studded open space with custom trellis covered patio. $949,000

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

CANYON CREEK, CONCORD

Rare sensational single story "Lenox" model on a HUGE.30 acre (approx) premium lot! with panoramic views of hills, ridge, valley to Delta! 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 2,748sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage! Neutral décor, window coverings, upgraded carpet & maple hardwood floors. Gourmet kitchen with tile counters, island & an abundance of raised panel maple cabinets open to family room with 12" tile fireplace with raised hearth & recessed media niches. Spacious master with "Anderson" door to patio with views & a relaxing jetted tub. Fabulous level lot features expansive lawn, patio a variety of flowers & ornamentals & views! $1,195,000

ROUNDTREE, CONCORD

JUST LISTED! Former model on a large premium lot! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,676, inside laundry & 2 car garage with storage area & utility sink. Formal living & dining rooms with neutral carpet & vaulted ceilings. Kitchen features upgraded gleaming hardwood floors, tile counters, big sunny window & eating nook. Family room with tile fireplace, custom shelving & slider to rear yard. Spacious master with wooded views. Large (approx.) .17 acre private lot with mature towering trees, large lawn area, patio, secluded spa setting & deck with above ground pool. $719,000

FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

NG I D PEN

JUST LISTED! Darling rare single story end unit! 2 bedrooms, 1 updated bath, approx. 914sf. Cozy family room with fireplace & slider to patio. Updated kitchen with granite counters. Quiet setting at rear of complex. Walk to community pool, shopping center & restaurants. $349,000

Premium lot with breathtaking views! from valley to Delta! Magnificent & meticulous "Moonlight" model! Rare one story, 3 bedrooms + den, 2 baths, approx. 2,237sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage. Gourmet kitchen opens to family room with fireplace & custom built-in for TV. Formal living & dining rooms. Open flowing floor plan. Huge master suite. Private level professionally landscaped lot overlooks valley below to Delta. $899,900

IRONWOOD/WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

ING D N PE

JUST LISTED! Absolutely adorable single story "Augusta" model. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1,816sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Upgraded 12" tile floors, neutral carpet, plantation shutters & wood blinds. Formal living & dining rooms with view of hills. Gourmet kitchen features Corian counters, centers island, raised panel maple cabinets, pantry & built-in recipe desk. Family room with upgraded tile floors, fireplace, custom maple mantle & built-in media cabinetry. Master suite features upgraded "French" doors leading to private patio. Private professionally landscaped lot offers views of hills & city lights, towering redwoods, various lawn areas & an aggregate patio with brick & flagstone trim & accents. $715,000

NG I D PEN

Dramatic former model ("Whitney") on a prime golf course view lot! 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3,606sf, 3 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Elaborate custom window coverings & light fixtures. Upgraded marble tile floors throughout main level. Downstairs bedroom or office with bath. Gourmet Corian kitchen. Family room with custom marble fireplace. Lavish master suite. Private lot with deck & extensive waterfall/pond feature & endless views of hills, golf course, valley & city. $1,059,000

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

Tel: (925) 672-4433 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517

Mortgage Market Update Conforming $359,650 or less (no points)

Jumbo $359,651 and up (no points)

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . .5.625% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . .5.75% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .5.75% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . .5.875% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.625% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.125%

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . .5.625% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . .5.625% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .5.875% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . .6.0% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.75% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.25%

Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty ADDRESS

PRICE

SALE DATE

260 Stranahan Circle 1880 Eagle Peak Ave 229 El Pueblo Place 227 Stranahan Circle 39 Jalalon Place 5614 Bettencourt Drive 501 Suisun Court 113 Mt. Etna Dr 328 Ahwanee Lane 81 Bear Place 119 Hurd Pl 2 Rolen Court 1170 Moccasin Court 5120 Keller Ridge Dr 332 Saclan Terrace 18 Rhine court 4725 Morgan Territory 107 Salazar Court 1509 Haviland Ct 207 Bigelow Street 1144 Peacock Creek Dr 5736 Verna Way 104 Joscolo View 41 El Portal Drive 30 Mt. Scott Ct 597 Mt. Dell Dr 1550 O'Hara Ct 118 El Portal Pl 1122 Peacock Creek Dr 1749 Indian Wells Wy 1772 Indian Wells Wy 1527 O'Hara Ct 1529 Haviland Pl 5019 Raven Wy 11 Mt. McKinley 620 Black Point Ct 1025 Pebble Beach Dr 5839 Pine Hollow Rd 8425 Marsh Creek Rd 8053 Kelok Way 8051 Kelok Way 50 Nottingham Place 1397 Shell Lane 8025 Kelok Way 55 La Honda Court

$710,000 $870,000 $849,980 $665,000 $680,000 $822,000 $684,950 $580,000 $1,080,000 $965,000 $795,000 $950,000 $640,000 $739,000 $655,000 $758,000 $1,055,000 $775,000 $665,000 $859,000 $1,130,000 $999,000 $788,000 $840,000 $790,000 $600,000 $680,000 $850,000 $1,181,000 $691,980 $735,000 $720,000 $585,000 $683,000 $825,000 $815,000 $1,219,000 $695,000 $1,000,000 $700,000 $1,050,000 $730,000 $515,000 $860,000 $865,000

10/7/05 10/3/05 09/30/05 09/30/05 09/28/05 09/28/05 09/27/05 09/27/05 09/23/05 09/22/05 09/22/05 09/21/05 09/21/05 09/20/05 09/20/05 09/16/05 09/13/05 09/12/05 09/08/05 09/02/05 09/02/05 09/01/05 09/01/05 08/31/05 08/30/05 08/29/05 08/25/05 08/24/05 08/24/05 08/23/05 08/22/05 08/22/05 08/18/05 08/16/05 08/16/05 08/15/05 08/12/05 08/08/05 8/7/05 8/5/05 8/5/05 8/5/05 8/2/05 7/27/05 7/27/05

1,663 2,467 2,643 1,650 1,749 2,479 1,904 1,627 3,416 2,843 1,794 2,718 1,343 1,877 1,904 1,776 3,117 2,011 1,574 2,325 3,599 3,100 2,467 2,390 1,740 1,587 1,549 2,427 3,911 1,904 1,958 1,739 1,256 1,493 2,005 3,600 1,572 2,306 2,237 2,894 1,932 1,145 2,237 2,390

BED/BATH 3/2 4/3 5/3 3/2 3/2 5/3 3/2.5 4/2 4/3.5 4/3 3/2.5 5/3 3/2 3/2.5 3/3.5 4/2 5/3.5 4/2.5 3/2 4/2.5 4/2.5 4/3 4/3 4/2.5 4/2 4/2.5 3/3 4/2.5 5/3.5 3/2.5 3/2.5 4/3 2/2 3/2 4/2 4/2.5 4/3 3/2 4/2 3/2 5/3 4/2 2/2 4/2 4/2

Shop Pioneer Territory for the Holidays

CLAYTON PIONEER Section B October 21, 2005

See page B6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B1

Hike of the Week

Central Contra Costa Regional Trails

KEVIN PARKER

HIKER’S HAVEN It has taken serious commitment and vision from our local governments to plan the brilliant network of trails that span both Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. After years of planning, building and an evolution of sorts, we are now able to enjoy the over 100 miles of trails that link 12 cities, four regional parklands, Mt. Diablo State Park, Lime Ridge, Shell Ridge Open Space, and other municipal parks, job centers and transit facilities. If that isn’t already enough of a reason to explore this trail system for yourself, there is further trail expansion with links to Las Trampas and Redwoods Regional Parks (thanks to EBMUD). Furthermore, with the use of Delta de Anza Trail, one can travel eastward into Antioch and Brentwood. What does all this mean in a nutshell you might ask? Well, how about a plethora of recreational opportunities sprinkled throughout the East Bay and beyond. For some it is about more than recreation and exercise as proven in a study from 1997 illustrating a large portion of traffic on the Iron Horse Trail between Walnut Creek and San Ramon was for transportation purposes.

VIEW

OAK TREE In all honesty, as I jumped on the Contra Costa Canal Trail which runs parallel to the northern edge of Heather Farm, I really did not have a grasp of the extent of this entire trail system until I picked up a map. And for selfish reasons of course, the smooth, jogger/stroller friendly pavement which stretches along most of the trails is perfect for a fussy baby that might need a hour or so of nap time. I guess happy babies make happy parents, because the two hours I spent exploring portions of Contra Costa Canal and Iron Horse Trails were a breath of fresh air for a sleep deprived dad.

LAKE

NEAR

TRAILHEAD

Well maintained trails are a key element of the trail experience itself, but what really made me laugh was the cross reference of people represented during my time spent enjoying this vast network of trails. Jogging moms, roller-bladers, big wheelers, walkers, dogs, bicyclists and even someone riding a unicycle were also present and with one commonality, huge smiles (except for the dog owner with the furry friend who left a special treat mid-trail). Contra Costa Canal Trail quickly intersects with Iron Horse Trail a few miles from Heather Farm and at this point I

Kevin Parker/Clayton Pioneer

headed due south. For the ambitious recreationalist, you could follow the 24.47 mile Iron Horse Trail all the way to the Dublin/Pleasanton Bart Station, but with only two diapers and a handful of wetwipes, I figured anything past Walnut Creek would mean sure disaster. One of the highlights of Iron Horse Trail is the bridge that passes up and over the constant hum of busy Ygnacio Valley Road. It is small details like this bridge that add to the allure of this trail system. While you are required to cross various city streets along each of the trails, there are indeed long

Kevin Parker/Clayton Pioneer

ALONG THE

stretches of trail with unobstructed sections for maximum enjoyment. Some other noteworthy observations include clever routing of trails through quaint neighborhoods and parts of surrounding cities that might never been seen from the roadway. In addition, the views of Mt. Diablo, adjacent ridgelines and nearby hillsides all help to enhance the outdoor experience. The moral to this story is obviously the more time you have to search out and explore each section of trail, the better understanding you will have about traveling around Contra Costa and Alameda Counties via this trail system. I have promised myself I will travel every mile of trail in this network within the next year (or two or three). But one fact remains clear; there are dozens of exciting “get out there and enjoy” opportunities all around us.

OTHER PERTINENT INFORMATION: Maps can be found at various locations along the trail or at www.ebparks.org Contra Costa Trails Office (925) 687-3419 Trail curfew: 10pm – 5am

s ’ n d e o t t y n a a l W C t s o M The James Gang offers

No alcoholic beverages within 50 feet of trail system Dogs are allowed on leash only (six foot maximum), where posted Bicycles are allowed and may not be ridden at unsafe speeds

For more information on this hike or other outdoor experiences, contact Kevin at hikershaven@comcast.net.

Central Contra Costa Regional Trails

Trails: Includes Iron Horse Trail, Contra Costa Canal Trail, LafayetteMoraga Trail, Cal. Riding & Hiking Trail, Old Moraga Ranch Trail, Briones-to-Mt. Diablo Trail, Las Trampasto-Mt. Diablo Trail, Green Valley Trail, Briones-to-Las Trampas Trail and West end of Delta de Anza Trail z Trailhead: Heather Farm Park - end of N. San Carlos Drive (off Ygnacio Valley Road (park at softball field closest to canal). This is one of numerous trailheads to access the trail system z Distance: Unlimited z Difficulty: Easy z

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Page B2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 21, 2005

Clayton Sports The Inside Story: CVHS Varsity’s weekly routine JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer

There’s the offense and the defense. There are the quarterbacks, running backs, receivers, offensive linemen, defensive linemen, linebackers, and defensive backs. And don’t forget fitness conditioning. There are the special teams including kickoffs and punts and field goals and the point after touchdown. And there are special teams on both sides of the ball. Then there’s the upcoming opponent, their strengths, weaknesses and offensive and defensive schemes. And, of course, there are the fundamentals, like improving blocking and tackling, passing techniques, and more. What’s a football team to do? What should they work on first? How can they get it all done with only a week to prepare for each opponent? How does one keep it straight and not waste valuable time? How does a coach and a big team work on all of this stuff during the season? The only way to get it all done is to be very organized. The Clayton Valley High School varsity squad has about 40 players. Then there are the coaches and trainers, plus the junior varsity team, the freshman team and their coaches. There has to be a combination of strict discipline and routine. This is serious business. There’s no time for fooling around. There has to be time to develop strategy and implement changes for the next game. There has to be good individual and group communication. There are injuries to adjust to and replacement players who also know the system and all the plays. And everyone needs time to practice them and be able to execute them with a high degree of confidence and skill. One must be very organized to get this all done. Clayton Valley Head Coach Herc Pardi and his coaching staff are very organized. The Eagles

FOR CVHS VARSITY

FOOTBALL PLAYERS,

are very disciplined. Every minute of time is carefully assigned. Pardi and assistants Jerry Coakley, John Coneso, Sam Quinones, Eric Lund, Billy Cochran and Paul Reynaud have it all planned out. So, here’s a glimpse of how the organization and preparation works each week at CVHS. Each week of preparation starts on Saturday morning - the morning after the typical Friday night game. It starts with some reward and some team camaraderie. And, as an example about that discipline we mentioned, there’s no sleeping in. The team rises bright and early every Saturday so that from 8 to 9 a.m., the football parents, led by Tina

practice is a combination of strict discipline and routine.

Levine, host a team breakfast. Then from 9 to 10:30 a.m., the team watches a film from the previous game, looking to identify and address corrections and areas needing improvement. For the next hour, the team runs out stiffness and soreness from the previous night’s game. “It’s very important to get rid of the lactic acid in those muscles,” Pardi says. The players also build strength by performing three lifts – the bench, squat and dead lift. At 11:30 a.m., the players leave and the coaches meet to review their next opponent’s game plan and begin putting together their strategy and offensive and defensive schemes, and develop any new plays to be used

during the coming week’s practices. Sunday is a well deserved day of rest for everyone. But by the end of the school day Monday, it’s back to the practice field. Each Monday through Thursday, Achilles Walker, the team trainer, tapes up the players for practice. Then from 3:20 to 3:30 the players stretch. From 3:30 to 3:45, the special teams work on punts and kickoffs. Point after touchdown (PAT) and PAT blocks are practiced every day. From 3:45 to 3:55 on Monday the focus is individual offense, where areas such as wide receiver, linemen, running backs and quarterbacks work on fundamentals and individualized tech-

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Jim Zewan/Clayton Pioneer

niques. From 3:55 to 4:10 the “Unit O” groups come together (with the “O” designating “offense”). These groups work on the passing game during “7 on 7” or “Skelly” for Skeleton Passing drills. Alternatively, the running backs and offensive linemen work on running plays between the tackles. For the next 20 minutes it’s “Team O” time. “Team” means essentially the full CVHS offensive team runs plays versus a

“Scout” team that replicates that week’s opponent’s defensive team, using the opponent’s defensive scheme. Finally, at 4:30 there is a five minute water break; although obviously on hot days short breaks are taken more often. From 4:35 until 4:45, Defensive Coordinator Jerry Coakley takes over, starting with a team session introducing and discussing the opponent’s offensive personnel, strengths and favorite plays. Then, for the next 10 minutes, the team works on Individual Defense involving the defensive linemen, linebackers and defensive backs. From 4:55 to 5:10 p.m. it’s time for “Unit D,” where the defensive line and linebackers or the linebackers and defensive backs work as a unit. During this time the odd group out continues working on individual items. Then, “Team D” gets their time. For the next 20 minutes, the CVHS defensive team goes against the upcoming opponent’s “Scout O” or “Opponent O” team, made up of the other CVHS players. From 5:30 until 5:40 p.m., it’s conditioning time. The field practice day is then wrapped up with the Freshman, Junior Varsity and Varsity teams coming together for a Program Meeting for about five minutes to announce players of the week on each team, academic discussion, announcements, etc. But the day is not over. From 5:55 to 6:20 p.m. there is film review of the upcoming opponent, and players receive and review a scouting report packet. During the week the individual

See Varsity, page B3

FRE E S E M IN A R

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Through Exercise

First 20 to register receives

Classes held at Maverick's Sports Club, 5294 Clayton Rd. (near Ygnacio Valley)

Wed. Oct. 26, 9 a.m.

$75 consultation voucher!

Presented by Kevin Brown Sports Medicine Therapist Bachelor's Degree: Sports Medicine Master's Degree: Kinesiology

Please call for reservation or consultation

(925) 872-7644

HERC PARDI

Sam Williams, a member of the Oakland Raiders and a former football standout at Clayton Valley High School, has nominated his high school coach Herc Pardi for the National Football League’s High School Football Coach of the Year Award, reports CVHS principal emeritus John Neary. “Herc has had an outstanding coaching career and is currently in his tenth year at Clayton Valley High School where he has raised the bar on performance and created an outstanding football program with teams that compete for BVAL and NCS honors each year,” said Neary. He continues, “Every football player leaves Herc’s program with an understanding of the importance of dedication, commitment to a ‘team’ goal, and to being not just the best football player, but also the best person you can be. Herc Pardi is a meritorious candidate for this prestigious honor and a positive contributor to CVHS

and the community.”

Nov. 4, 2005

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October 21, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B3

Clayton Sports Vinnie Levine

PIONEER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

VINNIE LEVINE

Senior Vinnie Levine plays starting linebacker, as well as tight end and fullback for the Clayton Valley High School Eagles’ varsity football team. Last year Vinnie made Second Team All BVAL as a junior. He led the team in tackles and was named “Mr. Defense” by the Eagles in the end of season awards. This year after five games Vinnie is again leading his

team with a total of 79 tackles—48 of them unassisted (i.e. “solos” as Head Coach Herc Pardi calls them) as well as 31 assists. That averages close to 16 tackles per game. That’s what a coach wants his linebackers to do and Vinnie does it very well. Coach Pardi calls Vinnie a tireless worker; the bottom line—-he is the ultimate team player. “Vinnie is also a very good baseball player. He is one of the top athletes at Clayton Valley,” said Pardi,. “Vinnie is not only a superb player, he

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also calls the defensive plays. That’s a lot of responsibility and Vinnie handles it well. He almost welcomes it.” “Coach (Jerry) Coakley normally calls a defensive play and sends it in,” explained Vinnie. “I then call that play in our defensive huddle.” But, as the offensive team comes out of their huddle and takes their formation, Vinnie has to quickly make sure that the pre-called defensive scheme fits what he actually sees. “If I see something,” continued Vinnie, “I have the freedom to call another defensive formation, to change the defensive linemen and/or the linebackers.” Clayton normally plays a 4-3 defensive set, so he is frequently moving those front four defensive linemen around. Coach Coakley says, “Vinnie is just 100 percent plus in everything he does. He does a lot of homework on the scouting reports and our defensive sets. He takes home something and studies it and he has it. He makes the defensive adjustments on the field

during the game and he does it really well. He is a Team Captain and an overachiever. He may not be the purest natural athlete I’ve ever seen but he works extremely hard and takes full advantage of everything he has. He is like a coach on the field. He is just a winner!” Vinnie’s favorite position is definitely linebacker. “My job is to find the ball and make the tackle.” Recently Vinnie was suffering from a little nagging injury and wasn’t able to suit up for practice. His coaches and teammates were afraid it might be cracked ribs. But, the intrepid Favorite Sport: Football Favorite Athlete: Ray Lewis (Ravens’ Linebacker) Favorite Singer: AC/DC Favorite Subject: History Favorite Pastime: Youth Football

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BERNIE THEOBALD Special to the Pioneer

The Oakhurst Better Ball League’s Final Four Championship Play-Offs will begin this month and finish before Christmas with the crowning of the 2005 Team Champion. The League’s regular season ended in September. The first place conference teams in each division will now face-off with each other to determine the respective division Champion. Then the final match will take place between the two division winners to determine the 2005 overall League Champion. This year’s Final Four competition includes the teams of: CHIEF,

Crash & Boomie, Duffers R Us, and The Dragon. Special recognition will also be given to the Final Four post-season participants and to each of the teams finishing the regular season in the top three places across each conference. For the past six months twenty-one two-person Teams across four conferences in two divisions have completed in a challenging net better ball stroke match format. Each team has been required to play five matches accruing points for net better ball scores based on earning fifteen possible points in each match. Here are the various top three finishing Teams on the regular season’s final Leader Board Standings:

times vary a bit. On Tuesday the defense gets a little more time, and on Wednesday the offense gets a little more time. Certain days are also designated for the offense to concentrate on certain key situations of the game. Mondays are for Blitz and “Move the Field” where the offense runs plays, first starting their formation from the right hash mark, then moving to the middle of the field and finally moving to the left hash mark on alternating plays to make sure they practice appropriate plays from each

place on the field. On Tuesday the concentration is on “Third and Long” and “Red Zone” inside the 20 to practice appropriate plays in those game situations. Tuesday is also the only other day of the week that the players do some lifting as part of their conditioning. On Wednesdays the practice concentrates on Goal-line plays, “Third and Short” situations and the very important “Two Minute Offense.” On Thursday, the offense does all or any of the above as

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The Clayton Pioneer spotlights a local youth athlete from our circulation area in the second issue each month. If you are a coach or an administrator and would like to nominate a young person (under 20 years of age) for the Rocco’s Athlete Spotlight, please send information to sports@claytonpioneer.com or fax to 672-6580. Nomination deadline for our November 18 issue is Sunday, November 6.

Oakhurst Better Ball playoffs to begin

Varsity, from page B2 MIKE ROSE’S AUTO BODY

Vinnie said he was recovering and planned to suit up for practice the next day and play in the game against Liberty. The entire family loves the game of football and Vinnie has been involved with football since he was little. His grandparents had season tickets to the Raiders and later his dad had 49er tickets. When Vinnie was 8 years old he went out for and made the Falcons youth football team. Before the end of the season he was starting. Vinnie’s goal is “to have a good enough season so I can play football in college.”

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THE DIABLO DIVISION:

THE MIWOK DIVISION:

ALAMO CONFERENCE: In first, CHIEF (Drew Hagen and Jim Westermeyer will compete in 2005 Final Four Championship; second, 30 Days (Andy Adler and Gary Jones); third, Tee Fore 2 (Roger and Sandy Mazza)

BLACK DIAMOND CONFERENCE: In first, Duffers R Us (Tom and Barbara Keebauch will compete in 2005 Final Four Championship); second, The Nifty Fifties (Dave and LeighAnn Howitt); third 11th Tee Twosome (Bud and Nancy Hedglen).

EAGLE PEAK CONFERENCE: In first, Crash & Boomie (Bill and Linda Whelan will compete in 2005 Final Four Championship); second, The Two B’s (Bernie and Barbara Theobald). In a tie for third are Trevio (Frank Trenga and Denise Viola) and Weekend Warriors (Fran and Trish Plante). well as a walkthrough of expected game day plays. Thursday is a day of practice without pads. Special Teams also get some extra time. On Thursday during the team meeting scouting reports are turned in and helmet achievement stickers (stars or eagles) are awarded to deserving players. Thursday practices end early for a team “Pasta Feed” at a parent’s house, then the players head home for a night of studying and homework. Friday is game day. The team tapes up at 4:30 p.m. and meets at 5 p.m. for home games and tapes up at 4 p.m. and meets at 4:30 p.m. for away games in

OBSIDIAN CONFERENCE: In first, The Dragon (JJ and Sil Jung will compete in 2005 Final Four Championship); second, The Odd Couple (Gale Self and Patti Davis); third, Mai Tai Time? (JD and Susan Dell’Isola). order to have that final walkthrough, dress and warm-up prior to the game. That’s a lot accomplished and a lot of dedication from players and coaches each week. So, when you see your Eagles on the field Friday, think about what they have already achieved that week. They have given a lot of themselves, and they are truly prepared regardless of the outcome of the game on any given night. And, the next day they’ll be up bright and early for that Saturday team breakfast, then they start their weekly preparation all over again.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

The Full Monty delivers a gutsy show that tugs at your heart you just didn't expect. Jill: After the first couple of numbers, I didn't care if the guys bared it all or not because the show was that good. It was that good primarily because of the well-balanced, sometimes boisterous cast who gradually exposed themselves (excuse the pun), giving the audience a sneak peak into their endearing lives. Take, for instance, Jerry Lukowski, an unemployed mill worker who is so far behind in his child support that he's about to lose visitation rights with his son. Or the distraught Malcolm MacGregor, primary caregiver for his ailing, elderly mother, whose life appears so bleak that suicide is an attractive option. Tamara: Or, take Harold, the laid off plant supervisor up to his ears in debt and afraid to tell his wife that their big screen TV is about to be repossessed. Or Dave, whose potbelly and plummeting confidence has put his marriage on the line. Or, Horse, the big black man whose break dancing days are pretty much over. Or Ethan, who is convinced that, with enough practice, he will be able to dance vertically up a wall, just like Gene Kelly. Jill: All six guys do such a great job in their respective roles,

JILL BEDECARRÉ AND TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Tamara: Think of six guys, each one measuring somewhat less than stellar on the "hunkness" scale, who can't dance, can't sing and, apparently, can't even earn a living. Pair them with an enthusiastic but blowsy, somewhat over-the-hill piano player and a desperate need to make a ton of money really fast, and you get a brilliantly stupid take on the old Mickey Rooney/Judy Garland "I know, let's put on a show" show. Inspired by their wives' and girlfriends' over the top reaction when the Chippendales come to town, six guys in dire financial straights find it not only plausible, but possible that they could bag $50,000 for simply taking their clothes off and rolling their hips at a local night spot. But CCMT's The Full Monty is way more than just a bawdy, ribald girls' night out. While it is definitely that, indeed, this tightly crafted show will capture your imagination and your heart, have you bouncing in your seat and, as Jill said at the closing curtain, leaving you just wanting to "hug every one of them." Jill: I went to see The Full Monty because I was curious. Having seen the movie a few years ago, I remembered that the cast bared all in the final scene-going for "The Full Monty. "But, would they be so brave here…in a local Bay Area production? I doubted it. So, as I sat with other curiosity seekers in the Hoffmann Theater at the Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, I sized up the guys in the cast and waited. As the musical moved forward, however, I quickly became lost in the gutsy story, the down-to-earth believable characters, the imaginative set changes and the captivating and heartwarming tale of the six "real men." Tamara: I, too, was quickly caught up in the story. Here are six guys who have been downsized…laid off…booted… coming face to face with their deepest fears and insecurities. This is a story of men rendered useless and peripheral by economic forces way more complicated than the supply and demand curve at the corner bar. It tells of cellulite, potbellies and impotence-both in and out of bed. It tells of being surprised by people you thought could no longer surprise you and selling out on your own terms. It tells of depression, suicide, and alienation. And it is funny as only comedy born of real pain can be. Randy, raunchy, touching and thigh slappingly funny, it tugs at your heart in a way

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“Randy, raunchy, touching and thigh slappingly funny, it tugs at your heart in a way you just didn't expect.” Tamara Steiner Armond Dorsey, shakes his booty as he auditions for a spot in the strip routine. But, the real fun begins when Lukowski decides that the routine needs a little zest, something that other striptease acts lack…And so the plan is to bare it all, total nudity, to go "The Full Monty." Michael Sloan's choreography was brilliant in "Michael Jordan's Ball," where the guys discovered that basketball was actually their ticket to the world of rhythm and dance.

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And juxtaposed to these lively, toetapping numbers is the endearing duet in which Malcolm and Ethan, fall in love at the funeral of Malcolm's mother. Jeannette Manor, fabulous in the role of Jeanette, pianist and "den mother" appears courtesy of Actor's Equity Association. She was fabulous in the role of Jeanette Burmeister, who is the pianist for the striptease auditions and rehearsals. Quick one-liners, a huge stage presence and a voice that carries well beyond the scope of the Hoffmann Theater, Manor ruled the stage in her "Showbiz Number." Equally entertaining were numbers like "Big Ass Rock" where Jerry, and Malcolm show how clever and funny the dark side of life can be. The Full Monty delivers a fun evening. And, whether, before the final curtain falls, all is revealed or not, don't miss this show. As Lukowski says, "Hell, what have we got to lose?" See ad this page for show dates and ticket information.

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that you start to care about each one of them and become their cheerleader as they move forward with their plans to form a male striptease act. There are many truly memorable moments throughout the musical like the showstopper "Big Black Man," where Horse played by

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Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., OCT. 24 FOR THE NOV. 4 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT FALL PROGRAMS @ CONCORD/CLAYTON YMCA Programs include flag football league (2-8 grade), cheerleading (2-8 grade), soccer leagues (pre-k - 8 grade), QUEST league (for children with special needs), men’s 5 on 5 (18+) and coed volleyball (18+). Call Delise Young, Program Director at 889-1625, Clayton Community Gym, 700 Gym Court, Clayton. ONGOING THROUGH NOV. 5 Like the Movie? Read the Book @ Clayton Community Library For grades 6-12. Read for 15 total hours and receive an Exploratorium pass, a paperback book, and more. Right a 5 line review of a book and be eligible for a branch drawing for bookstore gift certificates. The county wide drawing includes $100 mall certificates, an ipod Shuffle, and much, much more. See librarian for details. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-0659. ONGOING THROUGH NOV. 16 WWII Memorabilia @ Clayton Historical Society Museum The newest special exhibit at the Clayton Historical Society Museum is WWII, Red, White Blue. Artifacts and memorabilia from all walks of life during the war years will be displayed. Local veterans are well represented in this exhibit which honors the men and women who served and the families who joined in the war effort on the home front. Clayton Historical Society Museum, 6101 Main Street, Clayton. The Museum is open Sunday and Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. SEPT. 13 - NOV. 3 Patty Cakes and Picture Book Time @ Clayton Community Library Patty Cakes - 11 a.m. Tuesdays, story time for birth to 3 years. Picture book time - 11 a.m. Thursdays, child may attend without parent. For 3 to 5 years. No registration required. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. SEPT. 15 - NOV. 13 “Local Voice - Defining Community Through Art @ Bedford Gallery, Walnut Creek. Local artist Carol Putman’s painting is on display in this juried exhibition of Contra Costa Artists. Only 225 artists were selected out of 850 entries for this event. Bedford Gallery, Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, 295-1417. THROUGH OCT. 22 Days of Wine and Roses @ Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts In the fast-moving milieu of Madison Avenue, social drinking is almost an occupational necessity, and one that fast-rising young Joe Clay adopts with too ready ease. The girl he meets and marries shares his proclivity and it is soon apparent that their habit has become a serious problem, which results in a career in shambles, a marriage destroyed, and the esteem of friends and family lost. Fri. and Sat. evenings at 8:15 p.m. and Sun. matinees at 2:15 p.m. Tickets are $25.00 general, $22.00 for seniors, and $12.50 for youth/children. Call Center Tickets at (925) 943-SHOW. Contact Stephen Murphree at (925) 212-2810 for ticket discount information and pricing. Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive in Walnut Creek. OCT. 7 - NOV. 5 Contra Costa Musical Theatre's The Full Monty @ Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts Winner of 10 Tony Awards in 2001, this heartwarming, upbeat comedy tells the story of six laid-off steelworkers, down on their luck, frustrated with life, women and work, who, regardless of looks and ability become the best Chippendale strippers in Brooklyn. They bare their souls and a whole lot more. Ticket prices range from $27 for students to $37 for adults. Oct.7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, Nov. 3, 4, 5 - 8 p.m. Oct.9, 23, 29, 30 2 p.m. For tickets call 943-SHOW or visit www.dlrca.org. Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive in Walnut Creek. Oct. 7 - Nov. 19 MOON RIVER: A JOHNNY MERCER CABARET @ CTA CROSSROADS Features over 50 Mercer songs from radio show tunes of the 1920's and big band era to the great Hollywood film scores of the 1960's and 70's. Evening performances at 8 p.m., Sat. matinees at 2 p.m. Previews $20, Oct. 7, 8, 13. Regular performances $22 seniors/youth, $25 regular. Thursday Oct. 20, 27, and Nov. 3, 10, 17, Fri. Oct. 21, 28, and Nov. 4, 11, 18, Sat. matinees Oct. 22, 29 and Nov. 5, 12, 19, Sat. evenings Oct. 22, 29 and Nov. 5, 12, 19. CTA Crossroads Theatre, 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek. 944-0597.

Upcoming Events The Cursi House of Screams is back for another Halloween in Dana Farms at 5625 Lewis Way. Come if you dare Oct. 29 –Oct.31, from 7 to 10 p.m. Admission is free. The selfguided tour snakes through five rooms of horrific pleasure. Watch out for the scary surprises that jump and scream, the eerie strobe lights and smoke machines. All ages are welcome, however, not recommended for small children. For the faint of heart a less haunting experience can be arranged. Do you dare to enter? Clayton’s Halloween Ghost Walk returns for its 25th anniversary on Halloween night, Oct. 31 hosted by Richard Taylor. The walk begins at 8 p.m. at Endeavor Hall in downtown Clayton with several celebrity ghosts set to appear. Costumes are optional and walkers are asked to bring a flashlight. OCT. 27 - NOV. 12 Education Volunteers Training @ Lindsay Wildlife Museum Share the wonders of wildlife and nature with museum visitors or school groups. Special training classes will introduce you to the museum and our live animal ambassadors. Training is 6 classes over 3 weeks. and starts on October 27. Fee is $100.00; Lindsay wildlife Museum members $65.00. For more information please call (925)627-2944. OCT. 31 Harvest Festival @ Crossroads Covenant Church 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Crossroads Covenant Church is having their annual Harvest Festival Halloween night from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. This is an all community event; everyone is welcome. Jumpies, Speed Pitch, Inflatable Twister and lots more fun stuff. Dinner will be available all evening. Lots of candy for the kids! Crossroads Covenant Church, 5353 Concord Blvd., 798-5905. NOV. 1, 8, 16, 24 Book Club @ Pleasant Hill Library 7 - 8:30 p.m. Love reading? This new book club will meet on the first Tuesday of every month. Dr. Maureen Potts Thompson, retired English Professor and Pleasant Hill resident will moderate the book club. Dr. Thompson taught English courses in British Drama, Elizabethan Drama and Renaissance Literature. We welcome everyone to the club. To register please call (925) 646-6434, or stop by the Information Desk at the Pleasant Hill Library, 1750 Oak Park Blvd. NOV. 6 Poetry Reading by Three Contra Costa Poets @ Clayton Community Library 2 p.m. Joseph Chaiklin's poetry has appeared in the "Connecticut Writer. He has been a winner of their annual poetry contest. Sylvia Rosenthal's poetry has appeared in anthologies and newspapers and she has won the ASA poetry contest. Elaine Starkman is the author of "Learning to Sit in the Silence" and "The Best Time." She has contributed to collections of poetry as well as edited anthologies. Sponsored by Clayton Community Library Foundation. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, (925) 673-0659. NOV. 16 Celebrate Children’s Book Week @ Clayton Community Library 4 - 4:45 p.m. Magic by Alex, a national award winning magician whose show is filled with comedy and audience participation. He took out a book on magic when he was younger and was hooked. Voted For all ages. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, (925) 673-0659.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS OCT. 21 AAUW Membership Social 6 - 9 p.m. Clayton Branch of AAUW will be holding membership social to acquaint prospective and new members with the branch's goals and interest groups. Those interested in more information contact Jean Cain at (925) 672-5539 or Julia Garcia at (925) 671-0467. OCT. 25, NOV. 1, 8 Kiwanis Club of Walnut Creek 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Meetings every Tues. All are invited to check us out and be our guest for lunch. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust St., Walnut Creek. for more information call Sam Totah, 941-1536.

OCT. 14 - NOV. 6 Twelfth Night @ Diablo Valley College Shakespeare's tale of unrequited love in a gender bending comedy of mistaken identities! A storm at sea separates twins - a sister and her brother. Alone in a man's world, Viola disguises herself as a man to serve as emissary for the lovesick Duke Orsino in his quest to win the heart of the beautiful Olivia, only to have Olivia fall for the messenger, Viola. When Viola's twin, Sebastian arrives, mistaken identities confuse, confound and delight! Performances on Fri. and Sat. at 8pm, Sun. at 2:30pm. Tickets $10-$13. Box Office: (925) 687-4445, DVC Performing Arts Center, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill.

OCT. 25 Quilting Expert @ Clayton Valley Woman's Club 9:30 a.m. coffee and refreshments, 10 a.m. meeting. Margaret Peters, nationally known quilting expert, author, and lecturer will be the featured speaker at the Clayton Valley Woman's Club. Peters will share her stories about the Christmas tree she designed at the invitation of the Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC, the White House and how she came to be a lifetime visitor there. Everyone is welcome to join us. We meet at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Ygnacio Valley Road and Alberta Way, Concord. Please call 925-672-1868 for reservations.

OCT. 24, 27 Measure M Public Forum The Clayton Pioneer will host two public forums on Measure M on Monday October 24 and Thursday, October 27, both evenings at 7 in the Clayton Library Community Room. Members of the city council, the original Blue Ribbon Committee and the Measure M political action committee will be on hand to answer questions and address citizen concerns.

OCT. 26, NOV. 9, 16, 23 Concord Soroptimist Meeting Women at their best working to help other women. Business, professional people or people interested in providing service to the community are invited to luncheon meetings at Marie Calender’s the second and fourth Wednesday of each month and at The Left Bank the third Wednesday of the month.Call Gloria Utley at 672-0508, email at gloutley@aol.com. or Jo Harlow, 827-9676. for information.

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The Clayton Pioneer’s “Music Notes” columnist

Clayton’s own

Jim Hudak Pianist and Composer For bookings and performances:

Visit our Website www.jhudak.com E-mail jimmydak@pacbell.net Piano CD’s available on his Brainstorm Records label

Call Or Write:

Brainstorm Records P.O. Box 488 Clayton, CA 94517 (925) 673-7293

OCT. 27, NOV. 3, 10, 17, 24 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau 10 a.m.and 5:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. 800/326-8450 x 2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. OCT. 27, NOV. 3, 10, 17, 24 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. 27 CBCA (Clayton Business & Community Association) Meeting @ Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting, last non-holiday Thursday of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon prior, 672-2272. John Rubiales, President. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. NOV. 10 Women's Connection Luncheon @ Oakhurst Country Club 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Splendid Boutique is the theme. Shop till you drop. Silent auction, arts and crafts, baked goods. Shopping starts at 11:00 a.m.. Our featured speaker is Kathy Canales — A gifted singer and “Disney” fanatic discovers the real “Happiest Place on Earth” as her life goes from near tragedy to triumph. Cost is $16.00 inclusive. Please call Rose by Nov. 7, at (925) 798-6778 to make reservations. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr, Clayton. NOV. 14 Clayton Valley 4-H Club @ Farm Bureau Hall 7:10 p.m. Open to youth ages 5 - 19, and adults. Monthly meetings Sept. through May. Projects in small and large animals, skills including cooking, photography, arts/crafts etc. Opportunities in leadership, community service, conferences, 4-H camp, fairs. Contact: Candy Hogan 925 969-1325. Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Rd. Concord.

BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT OCT. 25, NOV. 1, 8, 15 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. 25. NOV. 8, 22 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 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. NOV. 10 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail, Clayton. NOV. 1, 15, DEC. 6, 20 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 AND EDUCATION NOV. 15 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Mt. Diablo Elementary 7:00 p.m., Multi Use Room. Make a difference in your child's education. For items to be included on the agenda, contact Stacey Wickware 673-1999, the5wicks@sbcglobal.net or Kristy Smith 673-1795, kristinsmith@yahoo.com, PFC Co-Presidents. The dates for the rest of the school year are: Oct.18, Nov.15. Childcare is available. Watch website for details.! http://www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/mountdiabloelementary/. NOV. 3, DEC. 1 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Clayton Valley High School 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. in the school library. If you show your child that you care about their school, your child will care too. Together we can make a difference! The meeting will be held in the school library. Clayton Valley High School, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. Please call President, Melinda Moore for more information at 672-0930. NOV. 19 Vendor Fair PFC Fundraiser @ Clayton Valley High School 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Get your holiday shopping list together and make your way to CVHS for a one-stop shopping spree and help support the PFC at the same time. Vendors include Creative Memories (Misha Doig), Mary Kay Cosmetics (Anne Young), Cookie Lee Jewelry (Karen Heisinger), Southern Living (Tami Purser), CAbi, Carol Anderson by Invitation (Kathy Martin), PartyLite Candles (Karen Bruno), Gourmade Cookery (Assemble and freeze ahead meals), Aunt Elaine’s toffee (Janet Long). More vendors to come so check back next issue. Clayton Valley High School, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

RODIE’S FEED & COUNTRY STORE

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October 21, 2005

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Melanie's Gifts & Interiors At R&M Pool, Patio and Gardens Finely woven tapestry Distinct collections wall hangings for tablescapes Accent pieces for the Decorative candles, stands and holders kitchen and dining room Luxurious pillows Find that unique and throws

gift or something for yourself

6780 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton (closed Mondays)

Just take a look in area stores and you will agree that it’s not too early to start your Christmas shopping. We invite you to spend some time in Pioneer Territory for all your shopping needs. Why take the harried drive to Walnut Creek or San Francisco when there’s so much here for everyone on your Christmas list. Read on for some great ideas to get you started. Make sure you tell our advertisers that you saw their ad in the Clayton Pioneer. And happy shopping! If jewelry is on your list, you’ll want to visit Cegielski Jewelers on Clayton Road across from Mountain Mikes. Owner and master jeweler Anna Cegielski and her design team offer classic and custom designed jewelry from around the world including one-of-a-kind engagement and bridal sets. Anna describes her jewelry store as “boutique” style

You are cordially invited to the

’s Circle r e n n i W

When you walk into Donna’s Gifts in the Clayton Valley Shopping Center, plan to spend more than a few minutes. The store is packed to the gills with collectibles, figurines and beautiful home décor. You won’t want to miss the Dept. 56 Snowbabies with a variety of holiday themes. These charming handpainted

g i ft t hat a la ve s

IG DES N & Engraving Ring Sizing Chain Repair Custom Design Diamond Setting Y

Our Celebration includes: The National Anthem Ribbon Cutting by Clayton’s Mayor Refreshments Live Music by “Wildfire” Gunfights by Gunfighters Inc. Giveaways Huge Sale Mini Horses C.C.C.H.A. And much, much more... Please join us!

(next to Ed’s Mudville Grill)

Getting ready for the holidays also means taking care of yourself and Linda Davilla has the perfect recipe. Step into her Essential Skin Care salon on Washington Blvd. and you’ll find yourself in a

CEGIELSKI JEWELERS

PAIR RE

In Clayton

R&L Jewelers owner Douglas Rountree has been interested in precious gems since he was six years old. And his long-time commitment to working with only the best diamonds and precious stones has led to a long list of distinctive jewelry designs and one-of-a-kind creations that have pleased customers since his store opened in Clayton Station. R&L offers the highest quality diamonds and an array of beautiful, intriguing designs for the discriminating buyer. Douglas also takes pride in his expert repair, restyling and restoration techniques that treat a customer’s treasured piece or heirloom with utmost care. Each staff member at R&L is a jeweler. Come by and see Douglas for that special holiday gift.

Finding that perfect gift for the hard-to-shop-for person on your list is a piece of cake (or should I say a piece of candy). Candy Created Bouquets in Clayton Station is now featuring Halloween and Fall Thanksgiving bouquets which are great centerpieces…and you can eat them. New owners Amy and Sean Boggs also offer custom designed bouquets which offer opportunities to personalize your candy bouquet. Candy Created Bouquets delivers and ships so plan ahead for this holiday season.

Clayton!

Date: Sat., Oct. 22 Time: 9 a.m. until closing Place: 6200 Center St. - off Marsh Creek Rd.

porcelain bisque Snowbabies offer endless opportunities to celebrate love and friendship during the holiday season. One walk through the store and you will definitely be in the mood for Christmas. There’s something here for everyone on your list.

of our 2nd location in

focusing on the European craftmanship that is artfully blended with today’s jewelry trends. Jewelry choices also include platinum, sterling silver, diamonds and precious stones showcasing Anna’s native homeland. Cegielski Jewelers provides on siterepairs and refurbishing while you wait. Call Anna and schedule your appointment in plenty of time before the holidays.

JEWELR

672-0 0207

(925) 682-2855 5354 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA

Serving the community since 1986

Three Happy Witches await you at

donna’s gifts

Quality Gifts and Collectibles

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6200 Center St. Clayton 673-5305 505 W. 2nd St., Antioch 757-0202

! Make so me one smile

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925-256-1137

Stylish choices for your home, holiday and garden

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Complete Western and English Supply

672-2440 Clayton Valley Shopping Center (next to Yardbirds)

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Excludes certain collectibles.

Expires 12/24/05

peaceful, relaxing, wonderfully scented setting that leaves the holiday rush and business behind. Treat yourself to glycolic peels, microdermabrasion or anti-aging treatments and watch your skin glow. Linda also offers Rosacea and acne treatments along with back facials, eyelash and eyebrow tinting and facial and body waxing. After you treat yourself, treat someone on your Christmas list with a gift certificate. Linda has plenty of these on hand for family members and friends. At the Holiday Craft Faire you’ll find thousands of craft items all in one place…it doesn’t get any better than that. Mark your calendars for Nov. 11-13 and Nov. 18-20 and get on down to the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds at 1201 W. Tenth St. in Antioch. If you have a craft that you’d like to tell the world about, visit the fair online at www.craft@ccfair.org. You don’t want to miss Winner’s Circle grand opening on Sat. Oct. 22 starting at 9 a.m. There’s a full day of activities planned and a huge sale; a great time to shop western-style. Sue and Fred Pederson are the new owners and will be on hand to show you around and talk to you about their product line and services. Here’s another opportunity to shop til you drop and have fun too. At Melanie’s Gifts & Interiors, Melanie and her incredible staff will be sure to spend time with you to discuss your personal holiday needs and recommend gifts for the favorite people on your list. Every thing on display at Melanie’s Gifts located at R&M Pool, Patio and Gardens on Marsh Creek Road in Clayton is special, so come take a look. There’s wonderful pillows and throws, finely woven tapestry and wall hangings, accent pieces for your dining needs and unique collections for tablescapes. You’ll also find decorative candles, stands and holders. The intimate setting at Melanie’s is perfect for some serious browsing. The 10th annual Fall Home and Garden Show comes to the Chronicle Pavilion on Nov. 4, 5 & 6, just in time to give you great decorating ideas for the holidays. You’ll also find gift ideas for everyone on your list. Things for the home, things for the yard, fine art, show specials and more than 400 quality exhibits await you at this popular three-day extravaganza. See the ad in our Shop Pioneer special section for a $2 off admission coupon.

October 21, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Beautique

beauty supply & salon

ck! a B e We’r

Donna Taber

holiday, home and garden decor.

5439 A Clayton Road, Clayton

Experience the warm, vibrant colors and crisp, fragrant scents of Fall, Halloween & Thanksgiving with McCall’s Country Candles, Toland Garden Flags, Nature’s Own Potpourri, Colonial Tin Lanterns and much more!

925-672-0405

Coming Soon: Vintage Christmas and Gold Canyon Candles!

Clayton Station

new owner managed the store for 12 years

Clayton Valley Shopping Center 5400 A-8 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Concord, CA (925) 672-0744

10%

WED, 3 - 7 THU & FRI, 10 - 6 SAT, 10 - 5, Closed: SUN - TUE

all jewelry work done on premises

proprietor - Douglas Rountree - 20 years experience 5435-J, Clayton Road, Clayton in the Clayton Station

great holiday gifts

Cookies by Design is out to make cookie monsters of us all. This sweet store, now located in Walnut Creek, is coming to Clayton Station (next to Safeway) in late November. Deborah and Tony Nork have owned the store for several years and are very excited about their new location. “We love the Clayton community,” they said. While the smell of fresh baked cookies will lure you into the store, the colorful cookie bouquets will also catch your eye. There’s a cookie bouquet for just about every holiday and special occasion that you can think of…thank you’s, graduation, birthdays, get wells, you name it, Deborah and Tony will design a creative cookie bouquet that says you care. They’re hoping to add a few more gift ideas at their new store, including cash and carry items if you are in a hurry. If you want a taste of things to come, visit Cookies

by Design in Walnut Creek or the Web Site at www.cookiesbydesign.com. Sometimes the best part about a small specialty store is the people that work there and that is certainly true of Beautique in Clayton Station next to Toys, Games and More. The new owner Donna Taber who managed the store for 12 years is delightful. Her flare for decorating and design can be seen throughout the beauty supply store and salon. The ambiance is very inviting. Donna is a wealth of information about the products she sells.“I only feature products that I’ve used and recommend,” she says. Bed Head, Redken, OPI, Pureology, Paul Mitchell are only a few of the quality products that are offered. There’s also a new stylist at Beautique, David Wall, who will give you a special “do” for the holidays. Donna has some great gift ideas and stocking stuffers that are sure to make your season a beautiful one. Tired of the crowds and driving around for hours to find parking? Robin’s Nest Country Gifts is the answer. After a short drive out to the country on Marsh Creek Road, you’ll find Robin’s Nest inside Rodie’s Feed. It’s the perfect place for that special gift. Robin features gift ideas for animal lovers, gardeners, horse lovers and hunters. Rustic and relaxing…this oneof-a-kind gift boutique invites you to take your time, browse, chat with the friendly employees and make this holiday season a wonderful memory. After you visit Robin’s Nest, a few steps inside the same building is Rodie’s, known for its full line of pet food and supplies. There’s horse and livestock feed, tack,

Back by Popular Demand Jewelry Liquidation One-Day Only

100s of items Diamond Earrings Bracelets 14K, 10K, Sterling Gemstones, Rings Necklaces Also featuring a large collection of vintage evening bags and vanity items

Be sure to stop by Weekends at the Cottage. This fun store in Clayton Valley Shopping Center has

just re-opened to the delight of fans. Sue Somers and Barb Olson invite everyone to come in and browse through the array of eclectic gifts, holiday, home and garden décor. Take a look at the Swarovski crystal jewelry, the “Mayamoo” purses and original photo collections and you’ll be amazed at how fast your Christmas wish list will diminish. Make a note that The Cottage is open only Wednesday through Saturday. See ad this page for hours.

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Mon-Sat 10am-6pm early morning and late evening appointments

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(925) 524-0850 www.getgoodskin.com

Nov. 11 - 13 & 18 - 20, 2005 Fri. 10-4, Sat. 10-5 and Sun. 10-4

Antioch Fairgrounds ne Onli ions licat App lable! Avai

100s of items at prices you will not believe!

A delicious alternative to flowers

propane, snacks and sodas. Manager Karen Bennett is busy working on special stocking stuffers and gifts for those four-legged friends on your Christmas list. So keep an eye out for some special gift ideas coming soon to Rodie’s. And don’t forget Rodie’s Self Storage which features the lowest rates in Contra Costa County.

Calling All Crafters to the Largest Craft Faire in Contra Costa County! 10’ X 10’ booths from $75 a weekend Contra Costa County Fairgrounds 1201 W. 10th Street, Antioch

NEW FINE JEWELRY LIQUIDATION

You can’t afford to miss this ONE-DAY SALE

SATURDAY, Oct. 22

671-7002

4673 Clayton Road, Concord (next to TJ Maxx) www.consigntreasures.com

(925) 672-2600

757-4 4400 z craft@ccfair.org z ccfair.org Ride the bus to the event and get $1 off admission. Win tickets at trideltatransit.com

eated Bouq r C y nd gifts candies uet a C candy bouquets z

Carol Orme invites you to her new location of Consignment Treasures on Clayton Road in Concord next to T.J. Maxx’s store. The store is spacious and filled with “treasures” for in every nook and crannie. Sofas, tables, lamps, pictures and antique chairs are only part of the fare at this wonderful store. Carol has a huge jewelry liquidation sale on Sat. Oct. 22 with gift ideas for the special people on your list that love to sparkle. “Customers like to think that they’re on a treasure hunt as they walk the aisles of Consigment Treasures. And when they find their treasure the excitement is contagious,” Carol says. As you shop here for gifts for the holidays, you’re sure to find something you to brighten your own home.

each staff member is a jeweler committed to professional & friendly service

Also featuring custom gold & platinum creations, expert repair, restyle & restorations

The Cottage Hours:

ceive e r & his ad t coDuenc.t31 t s i n o D i new stylist, David Wall men exp.

“I only feature products that I’ve used and recommend.”

When you want distinctive jewelry designs and the highest quality diamonds

Sue Somers & Barb Olson

s at the Cottag d n e k e We An eclectic collection of gifts, e

“The most complete source of beauty supplies to the public”

Redken, OPI, Bed Head, Pureology, Paul Mitchell

Page B7

z z

z Each Bouquet is individually handmade Our popular styles -or- Custom made to your satisfaction Major credit cards accepted

672-6818

5433 #F Clayton Station

We Deliver & Ship

Mon-Sat, 10:30 am - 6 pm New Owners, Amy and Sean Boggs

Come see our halloween bouquets

Page B8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 21, 2005

Take the time to prune, fertilize and amend soil for big rewards next spring October is a great time to pay attention to your yard and garden. Pruning, fertilizing and soil amending should be done now, while the days are still warm. Focus your days on tending to your roses, perennials, shrubs, citrus and lawn. It sounds like a lot, but for those who care to put in the time and energy, your rewards will be greatly satisfying. Fall pruning is selective. Most of your late summer blooming perennials should be cut back. Yarrow, penstemon, agastache, agapantha, sea lavender and society garlic need every bloomed out stem cut back all the way to the base foliage. This means if the stem has ever had a flower, cut back all the way to the bottom of the plant. This frees up the plants’ stored energy to possibly allow more bloom, depending on how much longer the warm weather lasts. Roses may easily bloom through November and occasionally through December, so prune back expired flowers down to the new growth. This is always a good rule of thumb. Hybrid tea and floribunda roses need to be pruned to the leaf with the five leaflets, whether the rose is a shrub or a tree. Some of the new introduction roses that have been released the past five years need only the rose cut back to the new growth, so look at each stem to see where the cut should

be made. Salvia greggii, nepeta (catmint) spirea, lavender, potato bushes and lavatera need to have one-half to twothirds of all the growth cut back. Just chop it off without

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

worrying about damaging the shrubby perennial. With the exception of the spirea, potato bush and lavetera, the other plants listed have 5-7 year life spans. Cutting the plants back this hard will encourage renewed growth and less wood. Use a fertilizer this time of year that has less nitrogen than your spring and summer fertilizer. Formula 49 is designed to be a year-round organic-based fertilizer, having only 8 percent nitrogen, 4 percent phosphate and 4 percent potash. Some of the other ingredients are calcium, sulfur, iron, manganese and zinc. Use on all flowering plants to give a boost so they will be stronger for the cold weather. Citrus, camellias

and azaleas should be fed with a 0-10-10 now through March. Notice that this fertilizer has no nitrogen. We do not want to encourage new growth that may potentially cover up any blossom that has formed during the summer. If the overall color of these plants is not as green as it should be, give plants some iron to add color without growth. A granular product such as Iron Plus is far more user-friendly than the liquid forms of this plant vitamin. Your lawn would also enjoy a dose of iron to help prevent the winter brown. Speaking of lawn, now is the time to change your type of food. As the weather cools, too much nitrogen makes the lawn susceptible to burn caused by cold. Feed your grass with a fall and winter lawn food. The ingredients in a cool weather fertilizer are designed to break down and become available to the plants during winter. This product should be used now through March for ideal lawn care. You now may cut back on the amount of water you are using for your grass as well. In October begin to water every 2-3 days for 20 minutes in the early morning. Apply soil amendment now around existing plants and perennials so when the rains begin, the natural nuetrients can easily be introduced back into the soil. Consider using a liquid soil pentrant to speed up the introduction

process, especially if you have not been kind to your earth through this growing season. There are chemical and natural products that are great soil pentrants. Lawn Honey is an organic soil pentrant that is quite effective. Shrubs and trees need an amendment that has 15 percent chicken manure, some bat guano, earthworm casting, mushroom compost and gypsum. If you grew veggies this past year, use a soil amendment with at least 25 percent nitrogen. Read the label of your potential product; look for other forms of nitrogen as well as micro fungi and beneficial bacteria. Those of you who are planting seasonal color need to consider a soil amendment rich in the same nutrient that you would give to your veggies. Your plants will only be as good as your soil. It is common knowledge that fall is a great time to install shrubs, roses and trees. So get busy, do your maintenance, make your selections, get them properly planted and get on with life. Once your fall yard and garden work is finished, you’ll be able to get back to the rest of the grind.

Cruise Adventures Unlimited Cruising is our only business Serving all cruise lines since 1987

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Nothing gets a family together like a cruise. Amenities for five or more staterooms: z Fountain soda package z Pinnacle Grill, one night complimentary z Family photo, one per stateroom Ask us about Alaska, Europe, and Holiday Cruises for 2006. call m-f 9-5:30, Sat 10-2

Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at GardenGirl94517@aol.com

Owners Valerie O’Connell (Clayton resident, 25 years) & daughter Colleen O’Connell

(925) 935-7447 1610 Locust St., Walnut Creek

www.cruiseadventuresunliminted.com

CST 2074362-40

Clayton ValleyCraig’ Back raigs’sB

Frameworks

e r p a p t p e roved to y G ack da

I would like to extend this offer to the valued customers of Clayton Valley Frameworks

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any custom frame valid thru 12/31/05, with coupon

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Concord, CA 94521

Craig

925.672.6066 Tues. thru Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-5

If you don’t have anything to frame, feel free to pass this offer on to your family and friends.

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925-939-4800,

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Clayton resident for 6 years

kristine.thinger@americanhm.com

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sherrie.fico@americanhm.com

*The interest rate may change after consummation. Negative amortization may occur. Licensed by the Department of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act.

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October 21, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B9

Now open at 8:30 a.m.!

now owned by Clayton resident, Susan O'Toole

OPEN Mon.Thur. 8 - 8 Fri. & Sat. 8-2

Located in

Serving fresh fruit smoothies, espresso drinks, & a fresh & healthy variety of breakfast, lunch & dinner items for you & your family.

Mavericks Spor ts Club

PHONE 4 2 9 3 3 2 0

Non-members welcome

Ask us about Internet Cafe Catering. FREE wireless web connection with purchase

at 5294 Clayton Road in Concord,

La Veranda Café

Northern Italian Cuisine in downtown Clayton Fresh soups, salads, antipasti, pizza and pasta Dinner and lunch daily Brunch on Sunday Children’s menu and take out service available

For reservations call (925) 524-0011 6201 CENTER ST. CLAYTON

Why wait? Why fight traffic and wait hours for a table when a short, 15 minute drive over the hill will bring you to your new favorite restaurant? Fine Italian dining on the beautiful Delta View Golf Course 2222 Golf Club Road, Pittsburg (925) 432-1700 From Clayton, take Kirker Pass over the hill Turn left on Leland to Golf Club Road

• Banquet Rooms • Off-site Catering

Lunch: t ues. - f ri. Dinner: t ues. - s un.

Make your Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve reservations

now

A njoy n Italia

nF eas ta tO ur

Englund's Tea Cottage

Mon. – Thurs. Co zy P fé 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. asta Pr avera Ca im Fri. 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sat. 12 noon – 10 p.m. / Sun. 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.

A beautiful full service tea room featuring…

Fine Italian dining with an extensive menu • Weekend Special - grilled steaks

Afternoon tea. Delectable lunches. Fresh salads. Fresh baked scones and desserts. Special events.

• Gourmet desserts and fine wines Very reasonable prices

“Where good friends gather...”

and Come our browse and op gift sh ibles c e l col t

4425-F Treat Blvd. Concord, CA 94521

687-5 5300

www.pastaprimaveracafe.com

Dining Around At the corner of Center and Marsh Creek Road in downtown Clayton, LA VERANDA CAFE serves a Northern Italian menu of pasta, pizza, chicken, veal and fish starting at $8.50 for Bruchetta with olive oil, fresh tomatoes, garlic and basil. Pasta dishes range from $9 for Penne All’arrabiata to $11.75 for Spaghettini Frutti di Mare. And if you haven’t had brunch at La Veranda, you are missing a real treat. The menu includes all the popular breakfast choices, Eggs Benedict and Florentine, omlettes and pancakes. A new twist on the tried and true Joe’s Special will leave you begging for more. All are served with potatoes, toast and fresh fruit. This This popular spot is a perfect place for a lovely, quiet Sunday morning brunch where you are likely to run into friends and neighbors. La Veranda opens on Sunday at 10 a.m. and is open daily for lunch and dinner. If you're hungry and want healthy food, CAFÉ SANTE is the perfect place to be. Ideally located in Maverick's Sports Club on Clayton Road where parking is plentiful, Café Sante offers an inviting menu with delicious items made fresh while you wait. For breakfast try the breakfast burrito or grab a bagel or muffin before you head to work. And for lunch or dinner, Café Sante has some interesting menu items like the "Wrap it Up" caesar, veggie or deli style.

If you're in the mood for something hot, try the homemade turkey chili, spinach lasagne or soups and stews. Café Sante has a coffee bar, kids menu and successful catering business The casual ambiance makes this an inviting place to dine any time. Formerly Linguini’s, the PAVILION BAR AND GRILL has added specialty items from the grill to Linguini’s traditional Italian fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, gnocchi, tortellini and vongole. Grilled items include steaks, fish and veggies and range from $5.95 for an appetizer of cheese sticks to $19.95 for the New York strip topped with sauteed mushrooms. Pizza lovers will all be happy with the new selections including three choices to please the most discriminating vegetarian. Pizzas come in small, medium, large and extra large sizes and range from $9.95 for a small classic cheese pizza to $22.95 for an extra large Super Combo. See ad this page for hours. ELYSIUM on Main Street also has a brand new menu with more choices and lower prices. Dishes range from “small plates,” featuring appetizers, soups and salads from $5 for Organic Field Greens with

672-TEAS (8327) www.EnglundsTeaCottage.com 5433 L Clayton Road in Clayton Station

toasted hazelnuts, beets and champagne vinegar, to a Half Dozen Oysters on the Half Shell for $12. “Medium plates-good for tasting,” (try the Cornmeal Crusted Calamari Salad with spicy aioli for $7.50) are great for a light meal, or you can combine them with a smaller plate for a complete meal. “Large plates, good for an entree” include Halibut and a Five Spice Dusted Duck Breast for $15; or Flank Steak and Frites (simple as that) for $14 among other choices. Owner Greg Severn has also added a “Little Ones Only” menu and heartily welcomes families with children. See Elysium’s ad on page B5. Are you ready for a relaxing afternoon with friends, enjoying a pot of tea and And for a little bit of Italy? Just down Clayton Road at the corner of Clayton Road and Treat Blvd., is PASTA PRIMAVERA. This lovely little trattoria offers a delectable linguini with garlic and mushrooms in a virgin olive oil for $8.95...my personal favorite. For an intimate atmosphere and a good wine list, Pasta Primavera can’t be beat. Or, how about a relaxing afternoon with friends, enjoying a pot of tea and delectable treats in a beautiful full service tea room? ENGLUND'S TEA COTTAGE offers these amenities and more at their lovely tea room in the Clayton Station. Proprietors Sally Englund and Pamela Barnett want the tea cottage to be a place

american contemporary bistro in downtown Clayton

E lysium “Elysium is a bit of heaven in the suburbs”

-San Francisco Chronicle, 2/18/2005

Full B ar N ow Open Bar

Dinner Tue - Thur, 5 - 9 pm Fri & Sat, 5 - 9:30 pm closed Monday

10 am - 2 pm

Sunday Brunch

Penne - wild mushroom ragout, Banquet facilities available

1508 Kirker Pass Rd. behind Shell Station

672-6868

Kids Menu, $3.95 New Lunch Menu from $6.95

Early Bird Special 3 – 5 p.m.

Three-course dinner $9.95 any day

kalamata olives, garlic and pine nuts $12

Bone in pork loin chop yukon gold potatoes, carmelized cabbage, pears, bacon demi $16

672-11333

for reservations

ting Patio Sea blee ila Now Ava

6115 Main Street Clayton, CA email: e lysium_restaurant@sbcglobal.net

"where good friends gather." After you browse the gift shop and collectibles, enjoy lunch or high tea with tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, fresh fruit and dip and dessert. There's a beautiful muraled room perfect for bridal and baby showers, staff meetings and club gatherings. To book your party, call 672-8327. Lunch reservations are a must. A little more on the casual side and a great place to take the kids is ROCCO’S RISTORANTE at 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek. Voted the best pizza in the Bay Area by a Contra Costa Times Reader Poll, Rocco’s serves up a killer house specialty. The Dominator, piled high with pepperoni, salami, mushrooms, ham, linguica, sausage and onions, is not for the faint of heart. At $19.97, this large pizza will feed a small army. Rocco’s also has several choices of classic Italian pasta, homemade minestrone and several salads. All pasta dishes are served with fresh bread. Top your pasta dinner off with a glass of wine and you’re well fed and satisfied for well under $20 (tax and tip included.) Rocco’s opens every day at 11 a.m. For view and atmosphere you can’t do better than ZANDONELLA’S situated on the lovely Delta View Golf Course in Pittsburg. Zandonella’s is open Tue.-Sun for lunch and dinner. This family friendly restaurant offers an extensive menu that covers every craving. From that perfect bowl of Spaghetti and Meatballs all the way to a succulent and perfectly roasted rack of lamb, you are sure to find your favorite. All entrees include soup or salad, pasta and bread. The view is free. Call for reservations, 432-1700. The dining room at OAKHURST is open Wed.Sun. for lunch and dinner. The lunch menu is extensive, offering appetizers, a daily soup selection, salads, sandwiches and wraps and pasta. Dinner on Friday and Saturday features a heavenly roasted prime rib for $20.99$24.99 in a size that’s perfect for every appetite. Wednesday dinner is a pasta buffet for $14.99 ($6.99 for kids).

Open at 11 a.m ., 7 days a week

A Little History...

n 1922, Giovanni and Virginia Biale left the town of Savona in Genoa, Italy, with their three young sons, Giacomo, Mario and Rudolfo to make a new life in America. With help from a cousin, they made their way to San Francisco and settled in the Italian section of Potrero Hill. Less than a year later, my grandfather, Giovanni, opened “Biale’s Meat Market” on Connecticut St. To this day “Biale” is still tiled in the entryway of the building. Giacomo “Jack,” my uncle, stayed in the butcher business while Mario, my father, and Rudy went into the bar and restaurant business in San Francisco, Phoenix and Honolulu. Rudy owned and operated two “Rudy’s Italian Restaurants” in Waikiki for 25 years. I worked at Rudy’s for 3 years with my brother Anthony. It was there I learned the importance of being a hands-on owner. People came from all over the world to visit “Rudy’s,” enjoying the food, the wine and the gracious host. In the fall of 1999, I opened Rocco’s Ristorante & Pizzeria. I have tried to maintain that same warm and inviting feeling my father and uncle provided for so many years. My family hopes you enjoy your visit and will come see us again! - Rocco Biale, your host

2909 Ygnacio Valley Rd. at Oak Grove Rd. in Walnut Creek (925) 947-6105 • Fax (925) 947-6106 www.roccospizzeria.com

Page B10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

October 21, 2005

Untamed friends need food and shelter this winter

BRENDA BARNETTE PICASSO

PAWS

AND

CLAWS

We’ve all seen them, stray cats darting under parked cars to get out of the rain, cats living in parking lots or even our own backyards. They are often called feral cats, but that term can be misleading. These cats may have never had human contact, or they may have once been family pets that were lost or intentionally abandoned. It may be more

accurate to follow the Homeless Cat Network’s lead and just call them homeless cats. Some homeless cats live solitary lives while others live in colonies. All cats set up territories and keep other cats from moving in. One of the unexpected results of removing stray cats from an area is that more cats move in! The best deterrent to prevent an escalating cat population is to trap and spay or neuter them and then release them to their former home, keeping them fed as they live out their lives. There are a number of caring volunteers who dedicate themselves to this purpose. They feed these colonies on a regular basis, and they provide simple shelters so these special cats can stay warm and dry during winter storms. I have very fond memories of homeless cats that have

HOMELESS

CATS

will be seeking shelter in the coming winter months.

added richness to my life. When I lived in the Mission District in San Francisco, cats traveled through my yard all the time. I started putting out food and set up a little shelter in a protected part of the yard.

Before long, a black and white cat became a regular feeder who showed up every morning and evening. He would hiss at me as I passed him on the walk to refill his food dish. I set a trap and took him in to be

neutered. Stinky was a great buddy, but he never let me pet him. Our friendship lasted for years. Once, I helped remove some cats that had been abandoned in a house. One cat refused to respond to socialization, so I decided to take her to my yard to live with Stinky. I learned firsthand that cats set up territories and fight to keep new cats out. For years Stinky occupied and controlled the very back half of the yard while the dilute Torti occupied and controlled the side yard. Each would always hiss when catching site of the other. Homeless cats need us even more during the approaching

Amethyst, a five-month old Domestic Short Hair, was out of time at a public shelter when the ARF Rescue Patrol saved her and brought her back to ARF. Amethyst is an initially shy cat who loves to cuddle. Amethyst is recommended for

JUNIPER

families with children ages 8 years and above. Bring everyone who will live with Amethyst to meet her at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 2 to 7 p.m.

Farm 51

l e abl Festiva t e st Sid ing Harve n r o 22 e M d FeedOctober ed h t , e r y p by nco SaturdaConcord F Sto he Co t a at t

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Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Come fall in love with Amethyst and her fabulous feline friends at ARF. Juniper is a four-month old Australian Shepherd/Jack Russell Terrier mix who was out

Barbara Carson

owner/breeder

Peruvian Paso Horses

We invite you to come and experience the “Rolls Royce” of the Equine World. Please call in advance

of time at a public shelter when the ARF Rescue Patrol saved him and brought him back to ARF. Juniper is a busy and friendly dog who will likely enjoy dog sports such as flyball and agility. Juniper is recommended for families with children ages 10 years and above. Bring everyone who will live with Juniper – including any canine family members – to meet him at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our Web site, www.art.net, or call (925) 2561ARF.

672-4467

Chalan: German Salazar

Horses for sale or lease Training/stallions at stud/breeding z Riding lessons

pet should be tied r ! u s o g t n o i Y our apronstr Apronstrings Pet Sitting COME

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HAPPILY SERVING CLAYTON FOR MORE THAN 15 YEARS

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Seth Ahonen

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Brenda F. Barnette is the CEO of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at bbarnette@arf.net.

Pasos de Mt. Diablo

Amethyst and Juniper are ARF’s Adoption Stars

AMETHYST

cold and wet months. If you have a homeless cat in your backyard or near your workplace, make him your new friend this winter. ARF has traps available to help you catch these cats to get them neutered. If a litter appears in your yard, we can provide you with help and supplies to raise and socialize them. ARF also makes donated food available to caregivers of altered homeless cats. For more information about how you can help, visit www.alleycat.org/resources_ care.html. Help a homeless cat this winter. You’ll be glad you did.

672-3632

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October 21, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Please recycle this paper

Page B11

Pat Conroy is Woman of the Year JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church 925-672-4848 1578 Kirker Pass Road Patricia Stout Plymale Senior Pastor Timothy J. Mooney Associate Pastor Raymond S. Campton Parish Associate z Nurturing our church family z Accepting all who enter our doors

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When Clayton resident Pat Conroy received the call from Catholic Charities telling her that she was nominated for the Monsignor McCracken Catholic Woman of the Year award, she thought, “thanks, but no thanks.” Not because she wasn’t grateful, but because Pat is more comfortable rolling her sleeves up and working for social justice in the trenches with the less fortunate. “I was hesitant. I really don’t like all the notoriety,” she smiles. This petite dynamo has a real passion for helping others and it is this passion that is the driving force behind her incredible tenacity in service to St. Bonaventure Parish, which she joined in 1973, and to the community. Pat was recently honored as the 2005 Bay Area Catholic Woman of the Year given by Catholic Charities of the East Bay. When she heard the news, Pat was more accepting. “Okay, it’s a done deal”, she said. She’s very quiet and unassuming,” says Sister Roberta Carson, Director of Youth Faith at St. Bonaventure’s. “She’s tiny but a big, big, big blessing for our community.” Sister Roberta says she admires Pat’s ability to not only orchestrate an entire program, but to follow through to make sure things run smoothly. “Her husband Gene is a great supporter of Pat’s work with social justice,” Sister Roberta added. When Pat talks about the work that she has done to earn this prestigious award, her facial

MONSIGNOR MCCRACKEN CATHOLIC WOMAN of the Year Pat Conroy with husband Eugene and the Rev. Richard Mangini of St. Bonaventure’s Church. expression says a thousand words. Pat becomes contemplative and talks with conviction about housing for the poor. She sits on the Board of Directors of the Contra Costa Interfaith Housing and speaks with pride about a unique program that has addressed the plight of the poor in the Bay Area. Through various funding channels, the Interfaith Housing Organization supervises the operation of a 28-unit apartment complex off Monument Blvd. in Pleasant Hill for single parents with disability and their

children. “It’s the first of its kind and very successful,” Pat says. There is an on site manager and tenants are asked to dedicate 30 percent of their income for rent which allows them to have ownership.“We’re looking for a second site,” Pat says. She cites statistics that show there are 2,000 homeless people in Contra Costa County and 75 percent of them are families with children. “That is heartbreaking,” she said. These statistics motivated Pat to become an advocate for the homeless and disadvantaged.

(some for a minimal fee) including dog washing, car washing, financial services from certified professional, lifestyle checkups from a registered nurse, real estate information from a Realtor, art lessons from a wellknown local artist and more. Rev. Patricia Stout Plymale invites the entire community to “bring your family, including dogs, and spend a terrific day knowing you have helped to

benefit Christ’s work to those in need.” The bazaar runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. Proceeds will benefit the congregation’s ongoing fundraising efforts to fund ministry programs of the church to the Clayton community. For more information, please contact Dianne Werner at (925) 6724848. Sunday services are at 10 a.m. Sunday School and childcare provided. BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON The Baha’is of Clayton are holding a talk and fellowship Fri. Nov. 4 at 7:30 p.m. about the world of dreams. The speaker is Barbara Winslow who been recording and researching dreams on a regular basis since 1990. For more information and directions call (925) 672-6686.

Church News CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN A dog wash, car wash, silent auction, bake sale, food court and holiday boutique are just a few of the fun-filled activities included in Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church’s Fall Community Bazaar, which will be held Sat., Oct. 29. Qualified church members will provide a variety of services

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She is the founder of the St. Bonaventure’s Social Justice Ministry and an active volunteer for the parish’s Winter Nights Rotating Shelter. The rotating shelter once again involves all faiths in the Bay Area who come together to provide the homeless with a warm bed, food and transportation to school and work. Families move from one faith shelter to another during the winter months. Along with a paid staff, there are hundreds of volunteers at each site that keep the program alive. She recalls how difficult it is to see the families in tears when they have to pack up and go. “How do you get through that,” she muses. All of these images and experiences keep her moving forward to find a solution for the homeless and poor in our area. She is also involved with JustFaith, which focuses on the social teachings of the Catholic Church. When she’s not busy with the interfaith organizations, Pat is a Eucharistic Minister at St. Bonaventure’s and frequently brings communion to patients at Mt. Diablo Hospital. For the past twenty years, Pat has also been involved with St. Bonaventure’s prison ministry. Every Sunday, she and a few colleagues visit the Marsh Creek jail where she conducts a communion and prayer service for about 30 male inmates. And when asked what she likes to do in her spare time, Pat’s face lights up. “I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren.” And that’s not an easy task. Pat and her husband Eugene have 10 children and 30 grandchildren. road and Upper Marsh Creek Road, Clayton. CROSSROADS COVENANT CHURCH Crossroads Covenant Church will have their annual Harvest Festival on Halloween night, Oct. 31 from 6 - 9 p.m. This is an all community event and everyone is welcome. Dinner will be available for $3. There will be games for all ages, jumpies, speed pitch, dunk tank, and a train ride. Sun. service at 9 a.m. Journey hour at 10:30 a.m. Crossroads Covenant Church, 5353 Concord Blvd., 798-5905. ST. BONAVENTURE PARISH Come to our annual Flea Market, Antique, Gift Sale and Raffle. Oct 22, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Proceeds to benefit parish mission projects.

Reminder It’s hard to believe, but Christmas is fast approaching. Deadline for your Christmas Services ads are Nov. 21 for the Dec. 2 issue and Dec. 5 for the Dec. 16 issue. Remember, churches get a 20 percent discount.

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Jeepers, Creepers, Button Up Your Overcoat, hop On The Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe and Hit The Road To Dreamland for two hours of Johnny Mercer tunes, pure and simple. In a tiny theater, on a stage stripped of all but curtains and lights, Crossroad Theatre’s four talented singers and three musicians honor and celebrate the prolific lyricist who wrote over 1600 songs spanning three decades. This is the third original revue produced by this artistic team headed by Director Joe Barnett, and includes three of the four singers who brought their pizazz and love of song to the 2003 production of My Way and last year’s Christmas, My Way, a Frank Sinatra Holiday. For this, their newest show, John Haithcock, Emily Saxe and Leah Tandberg-Warren have added the tall, blond Nephi Speer, whose rich, mature voice and smooth, suave style belies his cherubic, twenty-something

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kept the toes of both my seventy-something husband and my sixteen-year-old granddaughter tapping away. Moon River opens with Mercer’s signature song, “Accentuate the Positive.” The stage is so bare and the singers dressed so casually, one might have thought it was merely a rehearsal. However, as the show moves through the various medleys, the lighting, curtain arrangement and costumes become ever more sparkly as the show gains in glamour and sophistication, much as Mercer’s lyrics did through the decades. Mercer’s songs span some of the richest and the poorest

times in American history. His songs range from the cute and silly (Jeepers, Creepers) to the hauntingly lyrical Skylark and sublimely elegant Moon River. His range is extraordinary; he is impossible to peg. Don’t miss this pure and simple presentation of some of Mercer’s greatest songs. You’ll hear songs you’ve loved forever, and you’ll learn a thing or two— like, who was Mercer’s “huckleberry friend.” Moon River plays through Nov. 19 at 8 p.m. Thur. and Fri., and at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sat. Crossroads Theatre is located at 1277 Boulevard Way in Walnut Creek. (925) 944-0597.

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