SEP 08 Clayton Pioneer 2006 by Pioneer Publishers

Ipsen takes gold at World see page B2

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190

IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

September 8, 2006

925.672.0500

Two-time cancer survivor honored by Giants JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Photo courtesy of Weisscom Partners

CLAYTON RESIDENT DON FITZGERALD was recently honored at the San Francisco Giants game in the national Strike Out Cancer Program that recognizes individuals for their courage and inspirational journey in fighting the disease.

Sports Editor Needed

The Pioneer is looking for a new Spor ts Editor. This is a paid position requiring approximately 10-15 hours per issue (twice a month.) The successful candidate will be thoroughly plug ged in to the Clayton area sports scene, preferably be a Clayton resident and will have good writing skills. A computer and a high comfor t level with email and Word are necessar y. Send a co ver letter with y our qualifications and a writing sample (a couple of paragraphs is fine) to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Put Sports Editor in the subject line.

Don Fitzg erald is Cla yton’s newest all-star. On A ugust 20, Fitzgerald took the field at A T&T P ark with baseball in hand, wearing a T-shirt and cap . He positioned himself at second base and w as soon joined b y his eight teammates, who also took their assigned places on the field amidst the c heers and applause from the packed stadium. It was a picture-perfect day as the Giants took on the Los Angeles Dodg ers, but for Fitzgerald and his teammates , their all-star status was more than just about the game of baseball. They are cancer all-stars and were honored in a special ballpark event for their inspirational battle ag ainst cancer and dedicated w ork to help others affected by this debilitating disease. The ev ent w as sponsored by Genentech BioOncology, the Giants and fi ve non-profit cancer org anizations, including the Wellness Comm unity. Genentech, the leading dev eloper of targeted cancer therapies, has pledg ed $200 to the Wellness Comm unity of East

Bay/San F rancisco for ev ery strikeout thro wn b y a Giants pitcher at a regular season home game. Fitzgerald, a two-time cancer survivor, was c hosen b y the Wellness Comm unity to re present the non-profit organization in the national Strik e Out Cancer prog ram. It focuses on providing patients and their loved ones with the resources needed to effecti vely manag er their disease . The prog ram includes li ve ev ents at Major League ballparks across the country, like the recent pregame ceremony at AT&T Park. “Don has been on a long and strong jour ney through his experience of cancer,” says Jim Bouquin, executive director of the Wellness Community of San Francisco and the East Bay. “He took that jour ney with the Wellness Comm unity and connected with other sur vivors. He’s a w onderful inspiration and a remarkable guy , a full member of the community.” “I felt so honored, ” Fitzgerald sa ys of his nomination b y the W ellness Community.

See Fitzgerald, page A13

Four candidates vie for Council seats When voters go to the polls this November to fill tw o city council seats, they will choose fr om a field of four candidates. Council member Dave Shuey’s seat is up for reelection as is the seat vacated by Pete Laurence. Shuey has declared his candidacy and is joined in the race by Joe Medrano, Hank Stratford and Jim Diaz. Diaz ran in 2004 but lost to the incumbents . Here, in their own w ords, the candidates intr oduce themselves and tell w hy they ar e running for the city council. In futur e issues, the candidates will answer a set of questions compiled by the Pioneer .

City buys vacant lot for public parking TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

The City has purc hased the 14,854 square foot v acant lot behind Endeavor Hall for future public parking it was disclosed at the Aug. 15 Council meeting . A portion of the parcel is already leased from the sellers and used for Endeavor Hall parking.

What’s Inside SECTION A

Around Town . . . . . . . .A2, A4 Clayton Homes Twilight Tour A3 Obituary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A4 Classified and Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A4 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A6 Mayor’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . .A7 School News . . . . . . . . . . . .A10 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . .A11 Sharing History . . . . . . . . .A12 Weather Words . . . . . . . . . .A12 Upcoming Events . . . . . . .A14 Movie Review . . . . . . . . . . .A14 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . . .A15 So, Anyway . . . . . . . . . . . . .A15

SECTION B

Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B1 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B2 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B5 Dining Around . . . . . . . . . . .B6 EcoFocus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B7 On the Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B7 Crossword Puzzle . . . . . . . . .B7 Church News . . . . . . . . . . . .B8 Pet Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B9 Food For Thought . . . . . . .B10

In its ong oing effor t to encourage do wntown dev elopment, the City recently amended the Town Center Specific Plan, relaxing the previous onsite parking requirements and calling for more street parking . This move increased the a vailable land for commercial dev elopment from 45,700 to 111,500 square feet. There has been a “groundswell of commercial interest in the Cla yton T own Center,” said City Manager Gary Napper in his staff report. There are sev eral projects that are currently in the works which would dictate a g reater need for parking: The proposed nine units of Mitchell Creek Place residential subdivision at the cor ner of Oak and High Streets The Oak Center commercial building at Oak and Center The new Long’s Dr ugs at Center and Clayton Road In No vember, the long awaited, much anticipated downtown park will g o to the v oters for approval. Should it pass, this will mean more cars downtown. The city is also looking at making Diablo/High Street one way to create additional angular on street parking. The purc hase price of $240,000 was paid to sellers Mr . and Mrs . Neil Stafford from Redevelopment Agency funds.

JIM DIAZ MANAGEMENT AND SECURITY CONSULTANT

JOE MEDRANO, 42, OWNER OF INSURANCE MANAGEMENT CORP.

DAVE SHUEY, 39, ATTORNEY

RUSS “HANK” STRATFORD, 40, CPA AND OWNER OF DIABLO VIEW CLEANING

I ha ve been a resident of Clayton for o ver 25 years. I am an acti ve member of the Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA), serving as music coordinator for the ann ual Ar t and

I am a member of the Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA) and ha ve been on the board of directors for the past two years . I co-c haired the Clayton Ar t and Wine F estival

My name is Da vid Shuey , but most people call me “Shoe.” I am y our cur rent mayor (I hope most of you know that b y no w) and ha ve been on the City Council for the last four years . My wife Shelly and I ha ve been mar ried

I moved to Clayton in 1976, attending Mt. Diablo Elementary for fifth and sixth grade. I g raduated from Pine Hollow and Cla yton V alley High School and then attended Brigham Y oung Uni versity

See Diaz, page A8

See Medrano, page A8

See Shuey, page A8

See Stratford, page A8

175 race in this year’s Labor Day Derby TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

The da y da wned crisp , cool and sunny , a w elcome respite from the nor mally hot A ugust weather. Brightly painted, bullet shaped little cars lined up along the curb on Main Street and the kids were ready to race. This w as the T hird Ann ual Great Labor Da y Derby put on by the Cla yton Comm unity Church (CCC). In just tw o years, the event established itself as a tradition in Cla yton, right up there with the Ar t and Wine Festival and Oktoberfest. Over 175 kids signed up for

a c hance to (leg ally) “drag the Main,” according to ev ent cochair Mike Fossan. Down the street in the parking lot of Clayton Comm unity Church, was the car show where 86 spit shined, classic cars stood, hoods up, basking in the attentions of their admirers. The free family ev ent w as the vision of CCC’s pastor , Shawn Robinson. “My favorite par t about this town is when the c hurch and civic leaders come tog ether to make a comm unity,” said Robinson. “This is what it’ s all about.”

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

SAM GOLDEEN, left, and Payton Albert wait on the ramp for their chance to race down Main Street.

Page A2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Around Town

Girl Scouts dress up to ear n Career Fashion Badge

Girl Scout T roop 2566 of Clayton visited the store Limited Too Aug. 8 as par t of receiving their Career F ashion badge. They par ticipated in a tw o hour fashion prog ram the store designed specifically for the Girl Scouts . The T roop was tak en on a tour of the store where they lear ned how the inventory was ordered and stored and how to run the the cash register . They lear ned about the lev el of customer service the store pro vides to customers. They ended with a scavenger hunt and a fashion show.

September 8, 2006

Paul and Heather Gray celebrate fifth anniversary Clayton residents for 30 years, Paul and Heather Gra y are celebrating their fifth w edding anni versary with a quiet weekend on the coast…just the two of them. Their two-year old son Justin Ryder will have some R&R time with Grammy. Heather and Paul have known each other since they w ere three years old, growing up as neighbors and friends pla ying in the local creeks and on the trails. “It’s a great place to grow up and we are thrilled to be raising our kids in this to wn,” says Heather. The Gra ys are expecting their second c hild, a bab y girl,

PAUL AND HEATHER GRAY

this December. They were mar ried on Se pt. 15, 2001 at Marsh Creek P ark Springs in Clayton.

Adam Winship performs in award winning Prisoner of Love

Photo by Siobhan Adams

Back row from left to right: Jacquelyn Peladeau, Ashlynn Adams, Kimberley Anderson. Front row: Cassie Rasmussen, Lindsey Vargas, and Alexis Lampo.

Clayton thespian, Adam Winship, will appear in Act

Now’s presentation of Prisoner of Love at the Dean Lesher

Regional Center for the Ar ts. Local playwright crafted this witty tale of three hapless couples pla ying the g ame of love. The one-act play was selected by the Contra Costa Times theater critic, Pat Craig, as the winner of his 2005 local play competition. Prisoner of Love plays with another one-act, Christopher Durang’s The Actor’s Nightmare. Performances F ri., Sat. and Sun. Sept. 8-30. Fri. and Sat. 8:15 p.m. and Sun. at 2:15 p .m. Call 925-943-7469 (943-SHOW) for ticket information.

Yorks take the Pioneer to Pearl Harbor The Y ork family of Clayton didn ’t forg et their Clayton Pioneer on a recent vacation in A ugust to P earl Harbor. Lisa and T odd and their three c hildren Madison 1, Kevin, 10 and Emily, 6 attended Pearl Harbor’s new addition of the USS Missouri and they also visited the USS Arizona. From left: Madison, Lisa, Emily, Todd and Kevin.

$1,650,000

Clayton

Morgan Territory – 2 marvelous homes w/total 6BD/4BA on a wooded 10-acre lot. Gourmet kitchen w/granite, 2-stall horse barn, 2 garages. Call Jim Bartneck 381-2141.

$794,980 Clayton Dana Hills – Wonderful family home has 4BD/3B A & over 2,100 s .f. Guest bed & full bath on the lo wer level. Serene location backing to Mt. Diablo State Park.

$649,980

Clayton

Westwood – Seller may carry a 2nd! Great curb appeal on this 4BD/3BA home w/1,739 s.f. Open floorplan w/guest bed & bath on the main f loor. Gazebo, deck & spa!

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Clayton $849,980 Ironwood@Oakhurst – Premium view lot! 5BD/ 3BA with 2,854 s .f. Large kitc hen w/breakfast nook opens to family room. Great master suite w/balcony.

Adam Winship appears with Jeannine Perasso (left) and Ann Kendrick in Act Now!’s Prisoner of Love.

Clayton $599,980 Chapparal Springs – Super clean 3BD/3B A to wn home w/one full bedroom & bath do wnstairs. End unit with views, backing to Oakhurst Golf Course.

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Clayton $699,980 Diablo Ridge – Premium Oakhurst Golf Course property w/3BD/2.5B A. Light & bright open f loorplan w/master bedroom on the 1st floor & downstairs laundry.

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Clayton $649,980 Downtown Clayton – Bright, fresh, new! 3BD/2.5BA has high ceilings , loft area and o ver 1,600 s .f.. Landscaped lot, cul-de-sac location that backs to trail.

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$649,980 Clayton Oak Hollow – Easy living in this 3BD/2.5BA in a great neighborhood! F ormal li ving & dining rooms , 2-way fireplace, plentiful windows & beautiful landscaping. ced

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For more Around Town turn to page A4

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Concord $699,980 Garaventa Oaks – MOTIVATED SELLER! 4BD/2.5BA - fresh paint, roof & windows. Excellent curb appeal. Flat corner lot w/ fantastic landscaping.

Concord $699,980 Turtle Creek – 4BD/2.5BA w/a rich entry featuring a flowing staircase w/Mahogany stairwell & vaulted ceiling. Hardwood floors. 3-car garage w/storage galore!

Concord $839,980 The Crossings – Remodeled 5BD/3BA w/over 2,500 s.f., granite counters in kitc hen, hardwood f loors, 2 fireplaces & tile entr y. Deck & hot tub in bac k!

Concord $649,980 Kirkwood Knolls – 3BD/2BA split-level boasts customized updates including f looring, bathroom tile & gourmet kitchen. Room for RV/outdoor toys!

Look for Lynne French & Team at the Twilight Tours & Clayton's Octoberfest! "The Lynne French Team" (L-R): Julie Clairmont, Jim Bartneck, Ruth Reed, Inge Yarborough, Danny French, Heather Gray, Lynne French.

September 8, 2006

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A3

Stop by and see all that Clayton has to offer

1254 Shell Circle

9 Barcelona Way

Light refreshments offered at most locations $599,980 - Sparkling town home w/numerous updates! 3BD/3BA end unit w/views & golf course location! Bed & bath on main level.

$874,950 - Regency’s finest remodel. Over 2,300 sq ft. Slab granite counters, stainless appliances, custom tile & wood floors, recessed lighting, & crown molding. Park-like setting w/ views. Mike Kavanaugh RE/MAX Accord 383-6102 18

Lynne French Windermere 672-8787

1 1445 Yosemite Circle

$749,950 - Lots of curb appeal. 2493 sq. ft. .27 acre lot. Beautiful hardwood floors. 3 bdrms. 2 baths. Upgraded kitchen and baths. Upstairs bonus/rec/office. Park-like setting.

Josie Van Fleet Intero 889-5800

Chapparal Springs 1. 1254 Shell Circle

Properties listed by neighborhood Ironwood 8. 3060 Windmill Canyon Dr.

Clayton Woods (off El Camino) 2. 1445 Yosemite Circle

Jeffry Ranch 9. 32 Nottingham Circle

Dana Farms 3. 5505 Merritt Drive

Marsh Creek Villas 10. 7 Donner Creek

Dana Hills 4. 180 Mountaire Parkway 5. 7 Mt. Wilson Way

Mitchell Canyon Estates 11. 928 Kenston Drive

Dana Ridge 6. 129 Mt. Etna

Morgan Territory 12. 415 Leon Court 13. 4297 Morgan Territory Rd.

Downtown 7. 972 Oak Street

Oakhurst/Black Diamond 14. 1735 Indian Wells Way

Oakhurst/Windmill Canyon 15. 503 Raven Place 16. 602 Golden Eagle Regency Woods 17. 27 London Court 18. 9 Barcelona Way Stranahan 19. 236 Stranahan 20. 252 Stranahan Westwood Area 21. 5472 Tara Drive 22. 5475 Tara Drive

236 Stranahan Circle

$649,980 - Light & airy, neutral decor 3BD/2.5BA w/formal dining and large, landscaped backyard! Close to downtown & trails. Lynne French Windermere 672-8787

5505 Merritt Dr.

129 Mt. Etna Drive

32 Nottingham Circle

415 Leon Court

503 Raven Place

252 Stranahan

$858,000 - Custom home, hilltop, cul-de-sac, 4 bedroom, 2 remodeled baths, single story home, large lot w/ pool and spa. Views of Mothball Fleet & beyond. Tom A. Legault Kropa Realty 672-2815

$499,000 - New Kitchen w/maple cabinets. New 40year roof in 2004. See www.129mtetna.com for video.

$875,000 - Shows like a model home. 4 bdrms, 2 baths, 1 story, remodeled. Dual pane windows-3 car garage-pool/ spa, greenhouse-1/3 acre lot. Nordstroms gift cert. drawing.

$1,798,500 - Truly a remarkable view of Mount Diablo! 5 bedrooms, 5 baths, TRUE gourmet kitchen,huge family room w/bar,separate game room on 4.75 Acres.

Walter Robb, Broker 285-7014

Arlene & Lana Skuba RE/MAX Allied Brokers 672-6009

Kay Stromgren Coldwell Banker 847-2226

$699,999 - Lovely 3bd/2.5 ba home with large private backyard. 1877 appr. sq.ft. Upgraded hardwood floors & carpeting. New exterior paint. This home is immaculate. Nancy D’Onofrio RE/MAX Welcome Home 998-7705

$674,950 - Near new condition. Lowest traffic site. Beautiful white carpets. Home that the builder kept for himself. Vacant. Easy show. COE move-in. Trail at rear fence. Martin A Easton 672-8552

180 Mountaire Pkwy

972 Oak St.

7 Donner Creek Ct.

4297 Morgan Terr. Rd.

602 Golden Eagle

$769,900 - Lovely 4 bedroom, 2 bath home with breathtaking views from large covered patio and deck. Close to community pool, tot lot and trails. Many upgrades.

$869,000 - 4 bedroom plus den, 2 large baths. This downtown beauty is located in one of the most highly desirable neighborhoods.

$479,000 - Updated, single story townhome w/ vaulted ceilings, 3 bed, 2 bath and attached 2 car garage. A fireplace and two private patios complete the property.

$1,199,950 - Home has knotty alder doors & cabinets. Connecticut Blue Stone, Quartzite & hickory-pecan flooring throughout. Radiant heat floors in family room & master bath.

$849,950 - Beautiful home, over 2800 sq. ft., great view. Hardwood floors, a bedroom & bath on street level, bonus room upstairs w/ built-in entertainment center. Deanna Merrigan, Shanan Tullis Team Mount Diablo Realty 890-0430 16

Bill and Pam Walcutt Prudential California Realty 437-5535

Helen Rahimzadeh, Stephanie Lopez Coldwell Banker 932-7375

7 Mt. Wilson Way

3060 Windmill Cyn. Dr.

$525,000 - Free prizes. Detached w/ private driveway. Remodeled 2/2.5, B/B,1378 s.f. w/ study - opt. 3rd bdrm. 2 car garage, patio w/ beautiful gardens.

$889,000 - Guest bedroom & one bath downstairs. Views from balcony off master suite. New paint, new carpet, new tile. Pool, spa & waterfall. Aggregate patio w/ covered area. Wendy Moore Alain Pinel Realtors 570-5187

Joe Dajani Prudential Realty 672-3000

Marilee Lehr Headen RE/MAX Accord 743-1225

928 Kenston Drive

$995,000 - Free prizes. Rare find - expanded and remodeled 5/4 B/B, 3050 sq. ft. .3 acre lot. Travertine, granite, pool, exceptional neighborhood, view.

Joe Dajani Prudential Realty 672-3000

Mike Williams Williams Properties 260-5363

1735 Indian Wells Wy.

$619,000 - Popular 3bd/2.5 ba duet end unit. Private with large backyard. 1749 aprox. sq. ft. Laminate wood floor lower level. Upgraded stainless steel kitchen appliances. Nancy D’Onofrio RE/MAX Welcome Home 998-7705

5472 Tara Drive

$649,980 - 4BD/3BA with guest bed & bath on the first floor, open living room & eat-in kitchen w/garden window. Cozy spa in back!

27 London Court

$864,000 - See this 2,340 sq. ft. upgraded home with gourmet granite kitchen, swimming pool, tile roof, dual pane windows and awesome views! Pete Laurence Better Homes Realty 939-7920 17

Lynne French Windermere 672-8787

5475 Tara Drive

$499,950 - One of a kind duet nestled in Westwood area. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, formal dining, LR with fireplace. Huge private yard.

Marlene Cyr RE/MAX Accord 925-872-0823

Page A4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Around Town

Obituary

Jim Hudak to perform in Berkeley Clayton m usician and composer, Jim Hudak will appear in concert at T he F reight and Salvage Coffeehouse in Berkeley this Sunda y. He will play selections from his new est CD, Bridging Textures. Co-produced b y Will Ackerman, founder of Windham Hill Records, Bridging Textures continues to receive air play w orldwide. Widely hailed as a unique and outstanding piano instr umentalist, Jim also writes the Music Notes column for the Pioneer. The F reight and Salv age Coffeehouse is located at 1111 Addison Street in Berk eley. Concert will begin at 8 p.m. For more information, call 925-6737293. To lear n more about Jim Hudak, visit his W ebsite at jimhudak.com.

JIM HUDAK

Motorcyclists ride for Muscular Dystrophy Association

Motorcycle riders from all over Northern California roared into to wn Saturda y mor ning, Aug. 26, as they completed a fundraising ride for the Muscular Dystroph y Association (MDA). 382 riders completed the 7th Annual Bridg e to a Cure Ride which began in Li vermore with a Di vision of Forestry (CDF) escort and finished at the Clayton Club where riders w ere rewarded with a barbeque lunch and live music. Harley-Davidson is a National Sponsor of the Muscular Dystroph y

Association. MDA par tnered with the organization, and other motorcycle clubs , to fundraise for this ann ual ev ent, said MDA’s Erin Romeo. The Bridg e to a Cure ride

raised an estimated $50,000 which will g o to wards sending local c hildren suffering from neuromuscular disease to the MDA summer camp in the Santa Cruz mountains.

September 8, 2006

George Abbott 1921 – 2006

George Abbott, a member of the original Clayton City Council, died on Aug. 14. He was 85. Abbott was one of the first members of the committee formed to incorporate the community of Clayton. He w as then encourag ed to r un for the City Council. He took his place on the first council when the city incor porated in 1974. He and fello w Councilman Alvin Liming deli vered the incorporation election results for the city to the secretar y of state in Sacramento early the mor ning after they were certified to ensure prompt processing and forestall “under the wire” land use applications. The new little city had no furniture and no money for any , so Abbott rounded up a used, four-drawer fire proof filing cabinet. During installation, the sturdy and hea vy cabinet threatened to fall through the f loor of the 85 sq. ft. city office in the “little red house” at the w est end of Main Street. For 30 years, he was a super vising mechanical engineer for PG&E. He applied his electrical engineering and car pentry skills to new wiring and many other impro vements in the city office and later for the Cla yton Museum. He nev er really stopped serving the Clayton he loved. During his second term as councilman, Abbott resigned and recommended that the council appoint Ray J. Ollila to take his place. The council followed his recommendations and Ollila w as appointed and was later elected to his o wn seat. Ollila w as Abbott’ s neighbor on V erna W ay since 1954. They played golf together for 25 years in the same foursome and made n umerous Sierra fishing trips together. Although they didn ’t kno w eac h other at the time, Ollila and Abbott disco vered many years later that they had both been in serious trouble on bombing missions o ver Berlin on the same date , June 21, 1944. Abbott was a pilot and Ollila was a waist gunner. Abbott’s bomber w as shot do wn b y Ger man fighters. After landing and a serious beating b y civilians, he was rescued b y Ger man soldiers and became a prisoner of war. Six of his 10-man crew

died that da y. He w as a PO W for more than 10 months in 1944 and 1945. Meanwhile, on that same da y, Ollila’s bomber pilot hallucinated from lac k of oxygen at 29,000 feet. Thinking that the plane w as seriously damaged, he left the relati ve safety of the 36-bomber formation and wandered over Berlin for 10 to 15 minutes before the co-pilot forcefully took o ver control. During this inter val, Ollila sa w about 30 Ger man fighters attac king bomber g roups. The tw o men agreed that Abbott lik ely w as among those Ollila sa w shot down. Abbott was born on Aug. 11, 1921, in Duncan, Okla. He came from a long line of servicemen. His father was in the Ar my during WWI and his grandfather was in the Civil War. Abbott trained as an Air Force pilot, and his crew was sent as a pro visional re placement crew in 1943. They f lew 50 missions , including D-Day. Following those missions and a month of mail run deliveries to Italy, Abbott was sent back to the United States to become an Air F orce instr uctor. “I didn’t want to do that and eventually was granted going back to war as a pilot,” he said in a 2005 interview with the Clayton Pioneer. After his capture in 1944, he w as tak en to a camp with 20,000 other PO Ws. He was liberated on April 29, 1945, and retur ned to the United States shortly thereafter. Abbott returned to colleg e and g ot his deg ree in engineering. He mar ried in 1946 and had one son. His wife passed away after 11 years. In 1958, he mar ried Barbara, and they had a daughter and son. He is sur vived by his wife , Barbara; son, Paul and his wife , Rosemary, and their tw o c hildren, Lisa and Debbie, all of Olympia, Washington; and daughter, Janet Lienhard, and her husband, Rick, of San Diego. A son, Mark Allen Abbott, died in 1997. A memorial ser vice will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. Colleen Elwy, Ray Ollila and Bob and Eldora Hoyer contributed to this stor y.

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all types of mechanical repairs and computer diagnostics on most vehicles

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FREE Brake Inspection

$54.50 value

Clean and adjust all four brakes, inspect brake hydraulics* (*Valid if brake work is done at this location.)

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Air Conditioning Service

Includes under hood inspection

$30 off

$24.95

Any make or model

Oil change

(regularly $29.95) coupon good for most cars

exp. 9/8/06

Official Smog Test and Repair Station

exp. 9/8/06

September 8, 2006

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A5

Classified SERVICES CPR First Aid Training. CPR instructor specializing in AHA and ASHI training, call Kevin at 925383-9430, lukehollywood@gmail.com.

Bookkeeping. Caregiving work wanted. Excellent local references. Reliable and honest. Noelle, 925672-0124. 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. 925-673-1746 (leave message) gardengirl94517@yahoo.com.

FOUND A hoop earring on the Cardinet Trail. Call 524-9450

HELP WANTED City of Clayton Needs Commissioners. Community Service Commissioners ($75/month stipend). If you would like additional information about these openings please visit City of Clayton’s website at www.ci.clayton.ca.us. Or contact Rhonda Basore, City Clerk, at 925673-7304.

VACATION RENTAL Cabin in Blue Lake Springs (Arnold, CA). Sleeps 6, fully remodeled, quiet, use of recreation facilities. $150/night, $950/week. Call Kevin Parker @ (925) 383-9430 or http://www.vrconnection.com/parkerpaw.

Visit our showroom M-F 9-5; Sat. 10-4

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

Sale through 9/30/06

Abbey Carpet/ Contra Costa Floors

1170 Burnett Ave. Ste. E Concord 686-9901 Fax: 686-2106

Greeter. Clayton Historical Society Museum needs a greeter the second Sun. of each month from 2 - 4 p.m. Training is provided. If interested, call 672-0240, email claytonmuseum@ sbcglobal.net or visit the museum between 2 and 4 p.m. on Wed. or Sun.

Whether buying, selling or refinancing when you’re calling this number, you’re calling the right number Linda Miller

Realtor, Loan Consultant

5354 Clayton Rd, Suites B1 & B2, Concord phone: (925) 765-4765 673-9737 ll fax: (925) 798-2100 email: email: lmiller@homequity.us lmiller@homequity.us ll www.homequity.us www.homequity.us

The Clayton Community Library is seeking to fill the following volunteer positions: (All positions require a minimum age of 13 years and a 6month commitment. Training will be provided). Graphic Displays - to work on billboard displays throughout the library. Have fun arranging photos, signs, lettering, etc. Scrapbook Historian - to document the many interesting activities the library provides to the community using newspaper clippings, event photos, flyers, etc., Will be put on display at the annual March library birthday celebration. Shelver - to shelve and sensitize books...must be detail oriented (Tues. between the hours of 10am2pm, Wed. 3-5p.m., Sat. 11am-1pm & 2-4pm). Shelf Reader - to ensure the correct placement of books on the library shelves...must be detail oriented and familiar with the Dewey decimal system. Lead Tutor - to coordinate and match the tutors/homework helpers with student requests. Tutor/Homework Helper - to work one-on-one with local students in our community. You choose the age range, subjects, remedial or light help, and days/times. Office Assistant handle filing, word processing, create flyers, volunteer database input on Microsoft Access, assistance with meetings/programs. Contact: Arlene @ 673-9777 or email: akikkawa@ccclib.org.

STUDY GROUP

Readers of The Urantia Book will start a new study group this spring. The group will meet in a downtown Clayton café. New and seasoned readers will explore the book by topics. The group will decide the time (hour and day). Email urantian@mac.com or call 925-6724689 and ask for Tery.

PIONEER INFO HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD

Classified rates per insertion: Non-profit: $12 for first 30 words, $.20 eac h additional word Individual/non-commercial: $18 for first 30 w ords, $.30 each additional word Commercial: $48 for first 30 words, $.40 eac h additional word To place y our classified ad over the phone , call the office at (925) 672-0500 betw een 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Or, you ma y fax y our typewritten ad and credit card information to (925) 672-6580 All classifieds m ust be paid for in adv ance b y credit card (Master Card or Visa) We will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. The Cla yton Pioneer reserves the right to reject any advertising w e believ e is unsuitable.

LET US KNOW

Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all w eave tog ether as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us kno w of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Cla yton resident. You will find the appropriate for m for your announcement on our Website. Attach your photo to the form. Also on our W eb site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Cla yton Pioneer w elcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one w eek prior to publication date. Letters concer ning current issues will ha ve priority . We may edit letters for length and clarity . All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include y our name , address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail y our letter in a Word Document to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters MUST be submitted via E-mail.

P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580 TAMARA

AND

R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers

TAMARA S TEINER , Editor J ILL B EDECARRÉ , Assistant Editor and Display Advertising P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor and Feature Writer B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant

Directory of Advertisers

Abbey Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Accent Counter Tops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-0570 Advanced Voice and Data, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-2800 Aircloud Wireless Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 All Loving Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0752 Apronstrings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-7621 Applause Staging and Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7701 Aqua Pro Pool & Chemical Service, Inc. . . . . . . . . .673-7000 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . . . . .726-0154 Benton, Mureleen - Ameriprise Financial . . . . . . . . .685-4523 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 California Reverse Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .899-3511 Calkins, Bill - Charlotte Clifford Realtors . . . . . . . . . .673-9164 Carol Keane and Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .937-5200 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 Clayton Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0110 Clayton Fitness and Tanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2010 Clayton Home Inspection Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9405 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clayton Valley Frameworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6066 Clayton Valley Medical Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6744 Clayton Valley Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3900 Clayton Valley Villa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8401 Clean Cleaner Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .383-1253 Cleary, Joe - Home Loan Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .497-5270 Clip n Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-9355 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 ComUnity Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5363 Cookies by Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .256-1137 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 CTA Crossroads Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-0597 Denim & Lace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0345 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . . . .524-5100 Dromlewicz, Kim - Century 21 Diablo Vly. Realty . . .682-4663 Eagles Peak Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .465-0435 Fashion Cleaners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-9005 Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Windemere Real Estate . . . . . . . . .672-8787 Galaxy Nail Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-8668 Garaventa, Les - American Financial & Tax Srvs. . .676-3400 Greek Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-6967 Gourmet Subs and More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5550 Help You Sell Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-4950 Highfill, Lynne - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .932-7335 HomeEquity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9737 Hudak, Jim - Pianist and Composer . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-7293 Joanna's Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8911 Kelly Marshall Garden Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .914-0327 Ladies Workout Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .405-8888 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . . .939-7920 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Lela's Hair Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2000 Littorno, Richard - Attorney at Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Lopez, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . .932-7329 Los Chivos Taqueria Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-0914 Mazzei Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5600 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Model A Cabinets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0827 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . . . .280-8563 NBS Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-1845 Neptune Society of Northern California . . . . . . . . . .944-5100 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955 Nuchols, Alicia - Premier Home Loans . . . . .691-5070 X 323 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Pasta Primavera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .687-5300 Paulson, Steve - KTVU Fox 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5761 Rahimzadeh, Helen - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . .932-7375 R&M Pool, Patio & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0207 R.E. Carpet Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .595-8623 Robin's Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-6105 Schaefer's Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-6065 Skin Care by Trina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2000 Smith Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6461 Solad Dance Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .938-3390 Sposito, Stephanie - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . .932-7334 Steffen, Tim - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . .890-4407 St. John's Episcopal Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8855 Stone Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-2094 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 Swint, Brad - Team Funding Group . . . . . . . . .627-1400 X 12 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Travel Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-5000 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . . .672-2300 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . .672-4433 Weekends at the Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0744 We the People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246-0370 What's My Home's Value.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .286-9489 Williams, Mike - Williams Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-5363 Wooden It Be Nice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-5595

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Not selling? Look for the real reason It’s easy to blame the real estate mark et if a home isn ’t selling. But if other homes in the neighborhood are selling, a bad market is probably not the culprit. An ill-advised mark eting strategy is often the problem. For example, recently a homeowner who had li ved in her home for decades decided to sell. The decor of the home was dated, featuring g arish wallpaper and w orn car pets. The listing ag ent advised this seller not to bother fixing up her home before putting it on the mark et. He told her that buyers would want to do their own decorating. So she put her home on the mark et without doing a thing . After months on the mark et with no offers , the listing expired. Rather than renew the listing, the woman called another agent with a good track record for selling homes in her neighborhood. The second ag ent advised her to remo ve the wallpaper and to paint the interior a neutral color . She

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ESTATE recommended remo ving the wall-to-wall car pet in order to display the hardw ood f loors that were popular with buyers in the area. After a minimal mak eover, the home w as re-mark eted at the same price. It sold within a week. A home that isn ’t selling may offer a g ood buying opportunity, depending on why it hasn ’t sold. In the above example, a buyer with a good imagination could ha ve purchased the proper ty for a much lo wer price before the house was spruced up.

Houses that don ’t sho w well usually take longer to sell. A listing ma y sho w poorly because of bad taste or due to neglect. Deferred maintenance can be corrected, for a price. If a listing has been on the market for months , you ma y be able to neg otiate a discounted price that will more than pa y for any needed renovations. Bad taste can also be fix ed. If you don’t have a knac k for seeing the potential a home has to offer , hire a decorator to advise you. Some listings take longer to sell because they have a defect that buyers in the area find objectionable. For example , a home without a garage may be difficult to sell in a neighborhood where most houses ha ve garages. But if you can buy it at the right price , and there’ s room to add a g arage, you could get a good deal. Other home defects , like a bad f loor plan, too many stairs, or a location next to a freeway or on a busy street,are incurable. If you decide to buy

Randy Glasbergen

a home with an incurable defect, be aware that y ou may have difficulty selling it y ourself later. Make sure that the price y ou pa y is discounted accordingly. One of the most common reasons that listings don ’t sell within a reasonable timeframe is that they are priced too high. Usually when the price is reduced to mark et v alue, the listing sells. But if a listing sits on the market for too long at a price that’ s too high, it can become shop-w orn. These listings often end up selling for less than they w ould ha ve if they had been priced right from the start. Some listings take longer to sell for no par ticular reason. The price seems right. The home shows well. The marketing effor t is top-notc h. Call it bad luc k. The remedy is patience. Given time , most listings sell.

September 8, 2006

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See what I can do for you.

672-7701

Continues 5458 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Ste. 20

Lynne F rench is a r ealtor with Windermere Real Estate and a Clayton r esident. F or any r eal estate needs or questions contact her at: Phone (925) 672-8787 or Email: Lynne@LynneFrench.com

Clayton Valley Shopping Center

925-524-0345 Sherrill O’Brien www.denimlace.com

Dan Rosendich

Gifts that TASTE as GOOD as they LOOK www.cookiesbydesig n.co m Deborah & Anthony Nork Clayton Station, 5433A Clayton Rd.

® 925-524-9901 $5 off purchases $25 or mor e (excludes delivery) Cookies by Design. one coupon per customer, expires 9/22/2006

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September 15, 16 & 17

Ample FREE Parking

Authentic Greek Food & Pastries Live Music & Dancing Courtyard Café FREE Featuring music of "Fotia" ADMISSION and much more! 5-8 p.m. - 11 pm Friday 5 pm n - 11 pm o o N y a d r u t Sa n - 8 pm Sunday Noo 5.00 Admission $ FREE der 12 Children Un over) $3.00 nd Seniors (55 a

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1955 Kirker Pass Road Concord, CA

Info: 925.676.6967

September 8, 2006

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Page A7

Top five reasons to love school City to As September rolls around, I give you the T op 10 reasons to be thankful that the kids are back in school: 5. Reduced incidence of toiletpapered homes and eg ged cars. 4. You can once ag ain tak e secret delight in homew ork that keeps the kids busy and out of your hair (but see below). 3. Peace, blessed peace from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 2. You can break out fa vorite sayings lik e, “When I w as young, we had to w alk 5 miles uphill (both w ays) to school.” 1. No more hearing, “I’m bored, there’s nothing to do” 25 times a day. On the other hand, these are the Top 5 reasons to dread the start of school: 5. The fundraisers are coming and y ou kno w y ou will end up with 14 bo xes of candy that you will eat yourself. 4. It’s not just y our kids who don’t g et to slee p late anymore. 3. You spend more on y our kids’ wardrobes and supplies than on your own. 2. The a wful realization that you can ’t help y our four thgrader with math homework because it is too advanced. 1. “I don ’t care who else is wearing it, you are not wearing that outfit to school.” On a more somber note, one of our city’ s founders , George Abbott, passed away in August. He w as on the original City Council in 1974, and we opened and closed a recent council meeting in his honor. God bless George and his family. Continuing to w alk the fine line between church and state, I

DAVE SHUEY

MAYOR’S CORNER want to once ag ain congratulate the Clayton Community Church for the third ann ual Labor Da y Derby. (We cannot sa y soapbox because it is a dir ty word -- g et it, soap and dir ty.) Bad jok e aside, we cannot use that since we are not officially par t of the trademarked national org anization. The ev ent held on Main Street in do wntown last w eekend is a labor of love for many volunteers, and it contin ues to grow year b y year . This is the best family ev ent w e ha ve in Clayton, and it just g ets better and better. Great job, everyone. Land barons unite! T he city is now the proud o wner of the vacant parcel on the backside of Endeavor Hall. We were able to negotiate the sale with the longtime o wners, the Staffords , to allow us g reater f lexibility with our do wntown revitalization plans. The council is ex cited to see our plans come to fr uition next year with the opening of Longs, the Oak Street Building, the general store and our Downtown P ark (OK, I am counting the c hickens before they hatch on this one, which is up for vote in No vember, but I

am confident, hopeful, pleading, begging, cajoling, whining that you all will see the benefit of the park). With this proper ty to help with parking or other uses , we hope to contin ue to spur a vibrant downtown. Congratulations to the Mt. Diablo Elementar y PFC for their dog ged and contin uing efforts to g et air conditioning for all classrooms . Many units were installed last summer , and the district will be doing an additional 11 classrooms o ver the Christmas break. There will only be four remaining classrooms without AC at that point, and I am sure the PFC will continue its g reat effor ts to ensure our kids can be in the proper environment for learning. Bravo to the crew at Ed’ s Mudville Grill for another stellar g olf tournament that raised lots of money for y outh spor ts and apparently doubled our per capita adult bev erage consumption rate for the month. Our final piece of good news is that our o wn J ared Agnetti, wounded in Iraq, has been released from the hospital and will be f lying bac k to Walnut Creek soon to contin ue his reco very and rehabilitation. Keep sending y our thoughts and pra yers for his complete recovery. One fun question: Why should politicians be buried 100 feet dee p? Because dee p down, they are good people. One inspirational quote from legendary basketball coach John Wooden: “Things turn out the best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.” Have a great week and email me at shuey@rankinlaw.com.

offer two affordable housing units The City of Clayton is accepting applications from households interested in purchasing an affordable housing unit in the city. The City of Clayton Redevelopment Ag ency plans to mak e a vailable tw o residences located on Stranahan Circle within the next few weeks, said Comm unity Services Director J eremy Graves. The 10 year old residences have three bedrooms and tw o bathrooms. Because of the number of bedrooms, regulations require that there be at least three people in the household. The houses will sell for about $350,000. The prevailing interest rate at the time of the sale will deter mine the exact selling price . Family income limitations rang e from $90,500 for a family of three to $124,700 for a family of seven. In order to assure that these units sta y affordable , a deed restriction will establish a formula for the maxim um resale price of the home , establish a cap on the maximum income of future buyers and be in effect for 45 years. To apply for these homes , go to the City’ s w ebsite at 222.ci.clayton.ca.us or contact the Cla yton Comm unity Development De partment at 673-7340. Deadline for applying is Sept. 28.

Jared Agnetti returns home after injur y Sgt. Jared Agnetti, who was seriously injured b y a sniper’s bullet while on foot patrol in Iraq last month, returned to his home in Walnut Creek on Sept. 1. Agnetti, 26, was on his third tour of duty in Iraq when he w as hit in the c hest on Aug. 2. The bullet “hit just about ev erything but m y heart,” Agnetti said from his

hotel room in W ashington, D.C., the day before his f light home. “I’m still in a lot of pain, but I’m up and around, ” he said. After the injur y, he w as taken to Germany for surgery, then transfer red to W alter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C. He was released on Aug. 30 and will recei ve ph ysical

therapy in W alnut Creek. He is expected to mak e a full recovery. Agnetti grew up in Clayton and is a 1998 g raduate of Clayton V alley High Sc hool. He was honored by the city of Clayton for his ser vice in Iraq when the City Council proclaimed No v. 5, 2003, as “Jared Agnetti Day.”

Million Dollar Views of Mt. Diablo! ave your own private shang-ri-la backyard resort! H Unobstructed views of our state park

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over your own lake-like swimming pool, a hot-tub, garden area and R V parking, all with total privacy on a quiet Clayton Court. With this comes a 2,341 sq ft 2-story home with Monier tile roof, a $100,000 gourmet granite kitchen, and an oversized master suite with it's own private viewing deck!

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Pete can sell yours, too.

Knowledge, Service, Integrity, Results PETE LAURENCE Broker-Owner, Realtor, GRI

Office: 939-7920 Fax: 939-1939 VM 24 hr: 940-2777

1511 Treat Blvd. #100, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Page A8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Library needs literacy tutors A candle which lights another candle does not lose its light. Help an adult to read, write and spell better . Project Second Chance (PSC), the Contra Costa County Librar y adult literacy program, will train volunteers to become literacy tutors. Project Second Chance w as founded in 1984. The prog ram

Diaz, from page A1 Wine F estival. I also ser ved as co-chair of the ann ual Cla yton Classic Golf Tournament. I ser ved on the Cla yton Planning Commission from 1997 to 1999 and w as the Commission’s re presentative to TRANSPAC, the regional county planning authority. I served as a member of the City Special Committee to select the Cla yton Chief of Police in 1999. From 1979 to 1989, I

Medrano, from page A1 for the last three years and ha ve been a major sponsor of the Art and Wine F estival, Oktoberfest and T he Cla yton Comm unity Great Labor Da y Derb y. I also support v arious sc hool fundraisers and donated the funds to purc hase the scoreboards for the Mt. Diablo Middle School Gym.

Shuey, from page A1 for 14 years and w e have three children, Samantha, AJ and Catherine. I grew up here and graduated from Cla yton V alley High School, obtained a political science deg ree from Stanford University and a la w deg ree from Santa Clara Uni versity. My leg al practice (yes , as a politician and lawyer I realize I have two strikes against me but I promise not to g et that third strike.) primarily in volves defending doctors in medical malpractice actions and contractors in constr uction defect litigation, but I also help out family, friends, and neighbors

Stratford, from page A1 where I recei ved both a Bachelor of Science and Master of Accountancy degrees. I later received a Master of Business Administration deg ree from U.C. Berkeley. I worked in public accounting, both with a local fir m in Walnut Creek and with KPMG , one of the big four accounting firms. I left public accounting and w orked as the cor porate controller for a $200 million food company in Walnut Creek. After the company w as sold, I decided that I w anted to w ork for m yself with the desire to

offers free, confidential, one-onone basic literacy instr uction to adults. Since it beg an, the program has helped more than 4,000 people improve their reading, writing, and spelling skills . Tutoring is done b y trained v olunteers who meet with their students twice a w eek pro viding customized, personal lessons. Please call 925-927-3250, or

email psc@ccclib .org for registration infor mation. Training will be held at the PSC office, 75 Santa Barbara R oad, Pleasant Hill. Training begins Wednesday evening, Sept. 27: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. and continues Sept. 30 and Oct. 7, 9 a.m. – 3 p .m. All 14 hours are required. Tutors are needed in East and Central County.

served as the Commanding Officer of the Cla yton P olice Department’s Reserve Division. From 1991 to 1996, I served as the senior ex ecutive of the California State Bureau of Security and In vestigative Services, appointed b y Governor Pete Wilson. I am seeking to ser ve on the City Council to maintain and improve the quality of life that my family has enjoyed and experienced o ver the past 25 years that we have lived in Clayton.

My vision is to preser ve our small-town feel and sta y connected with the community. A native of California, Diaz holds a Bac helor of Sciences Degree in Business Administration from the Uni v. of Redlands and a Certificate in Engineering Economics from Iowa State University. He and his wife , Dana have two sons, Jim, Jr. and Jeff, and a daughter, Michele and tw o grandchildren

I have been in the insurance industr y for 20 years and hold the Associate in Risk Manag ement designation (ARM) from the Insurance Institute of America. In 1999 I star ted Insurance Management Corporation (IMC) located in do wntown Cla yton. I provide risk manag ement and insurance services for companies ranging in size from small one

person shops to larg e m ultinational publicly traded companies. I feel that we need to expand our tax base and encourag e business dev elopment do wntown. My goal is to bring a fresh perspective, think outside the box, strive to g et projects completed faster and help mak e Clayton ev en better than it already is today.

if asked. I am an acti ve board member for the Cla yton V alley Little League and ha ve been a coach, referee and umpire for baseball, soccer and basketball. I ha ve also been acti ve in the Parent F aculty club at Mt. Diablo Elementar y and ha ve been the auctioneer for their primary fundraiser eac h year. I also belong to the Cla yton Community Church. I believe that I ha ve been a fresh, young (some ma y dispute that characterization but I cling to it desperately as I approach 40), independent, thoughtful and reasonable voice on the Council for the last four years. I have served to

bridge the g ap betw een factions and ha ve helped sa ve the city thousands of dollars on legal issues through my experience. I ha ve alw ays respected, considered and listened to both sides on ev ery issue that has come to the Council and have been a stabilizing force on hotly debated topics. I am r unning ag ain for Council because I love the job, believe that I do it w ell, and would lik e to contin ue to gi ve back to the City I lo ve. My vision is to contin ue efforts to make our downtown a vibrant meeting point for our residents while maintaining our small town appeal.

have greater control over my life. I star ted Diablo View Cleaning, a carpet and floor cleaning business. The business has g rown by focusing on quality ser vice and customer satisfaction. Being a CP A, I w anted to continue to use m y accounting background and I currently serve a number of tax and accounting clients. Many of my clients are Clayton residents , who I ha ve enjoyed working with. Because Cla yton has been such a g reat place to li ve, work, and play I have felt a desire and need to gi ve bac k to the community. As a city council member m y pur pose will be to

ensure that Cla yton is the best city for families. To achieve this purpose I will focus on: 1) maintaining the city in a w ay that is fiscally responsible and protects and enhances our property values, 2) ensuring that our police de partment has the support and resources necessary to k eep Cla yton safe , and 3) attracting businesses and sustainable dev elopment that will enhance our city while preser ving its character and charm, and 4) giving our schools the necessary community support so that our kids get the most from their education.

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Page A9

Clayton Police Department will help organize a Neighborhood Watch DAN LAWRENCE CLAYTON’S CHIEF OF POLICE Special to the Pioneer People these da ys are dreaming bigger than e ver when it comes t o their retirement. As an Ameriprise f inancial advisor , I belie ve people who writ e do wn their dreams are much more likely to achieve them. That’s why I am proud to offer the Dream Book,SM a tool designed to help you identify and envision your life goals. With the Dream Book, we can map out where y ou want to go, and thr ough sound financial advice, figure out the best way to get you there. Because there’s no be tter w ay t o star t disco vering possibilities, unlocking y our passions and articulating a vision for your future.

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Clayton is the third safest city in California, as reported by the Califor nia De partment of Justice, utilizing 2004 crime statistics (2005 crime statistics will be out soon). This statistical ranking is based on a comparison of the most serious criminal acts committed and re ported in each California city with a population of more than 10,000. This fact has helped for m the perce ption, by many residents, that we are a safe city. For the most par t, the city is a real safe place to li ve and visit. However, we need to balance that confident and safe feeling with the reality that something could happen or someone could become a victim of a crime. Clayton is inhabited b y about 11,000 residents, living in 3,750 residences in a 5 square mile area. In addition, the city is laced with 42 miles of paved roadways. The police de partment is staffed with 11 sw orn police officers who ser ve the area in order to pro vide for a safe environment. One of the best police ser vices strategies is for the officers to be highly visible in order to prevent criminal acti vity. While the officers are patrolling the city, they are looking for suspicious acti vity, criminal acti vity

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and traffic violators. When they observe criminal beha vior, they are trained to take the appropriate action, such as issuing a written citation, or making an arrest. The City Council has made it a top priority to pro vide the police de partment with enough resources to train and equip the officers to do their job effec-

POLICE CHIEF DAN LAWRENCE

tively. However, there are only 11 of them and they can ’t be everywhere at once. As a result, the officers can use all of the help that they can g et. Neighborhood W atch is a nationally recognized strateg y that all neighborhoods can utilize to combat crime . It is neighbors helping neighbors . They are the police de partment’s extra eyes and ears for

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All of these incidents or any other suspicious acti vity should be re ported to the police department as soon as possible. In conjunction with an active Neighborhood W atch program, all of us can mak e it harder for criminals to ply their trade b y implementing some simple prev entive ste ps. For some, it’s loc king the doors , windows, closing g arage doors (even when home), trimming bushes and installing timed lighting. For others it ma y be ownership of protective dogs , who patrol the proper ty. Or it could be installing an alarm system or other state-of-the-ar t technological devices designed to photog raph, make noise or call the police. In this w ay, the Cla yton community has par tnered with the police department to actively fight crime and k eep Clayton the safest city in which to live. Chief Dan Lawr ence can be reached at 673-7350.

Members of a neighborhood w atch should look for several kinds of activity: Someone looking into windows of houses and park ed cars.

Near miss leads to drug bust TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Police ar rested a 35-year old Concord man last month when he nearly ran into a patrol car dri ven b y Cla yton Officer Rich Enea, Jr. Enea was headed nor th on Clayton R oad at the Kirk er Pass intersection a little after midnight on A ug. 20 when a Dodge pic kup sw erved into 972 Oak Street

Someone screaming or shouting for help. Property being tak en out of houses where no one is home. Cars, vans or tr ucks mo ving slowly with no apparent reason or destination or without lights. Anyone being forced into a vehicle. A stranger sitting in a car talking to a child.

reporting crime. A moti vated indi vidual, a few concer ned residents or a community org anization can spearhead the effor ts to establish a Neighborhood W atch. They can: Organize a small planning committee of neighbors to discuss needs , the lev el of interest and possible comm unity problems. Contact the Cla yton P olice Department to mak ea request for assistance in training members in home security and reporting skills and information on local crime patterns. These one-time , onehour training sessions are available on a limited basis, by appointment only. Hold an initial meeting to gauge neighbors’ interest, establish the pur pose of the program and begin to identify issues that need to be addressed. Select a coordinator. Recruit members and k eep up-to-date infor mation, such as phone numbers, etc. Work with the city to put up “Neighborhood Watch” signs, at the neighborhood expense.

his lane. “I had to slam on the brakes to k eep from hitting him,” said Enea, who pulled the driver over. “I could smell the alcohol on him.” The man failed the field sobriety test and was headed to jail. But, the stor y doesn’t end there. A searc h of the tr uck turned up a clear plastic bag filled with 238 g rams of mari-

juana sitting on the seat in plain sight. The marijuana had a street v alue of about $3,000, said Clayton Police Chief Dan Lawrence. According to Enea, it w as the big gest dr ug bust Cla yton police ha ve seen in recent years. Police later disco vered that the man was the “Number two guy” in an outla w motorcycle gang in Pittsburg.

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Clayton’s school principals share their hopes and plans for new sc hool year NEW TECHNOLOGY GREETS LARGE STUDENT BODY AT CVHS

DIABLO VIEW STAFF CONTINUES TO REFINE GOALS

GARY SWANSON CVHS principal

This past year was a hug e learning experience for me , but I am more g rateful than ev er to be principal of Clayton V alley High School. The students, staff and parents create an awesome combination that makes the school great. There ha ve been many indi viduals and groups that ha ve recei ved special recognition this year due to their outstanding achievement. But sometimes the recognition is very quiet, like when a representative of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs showed up at a band concer t to recognize the band for their par ticipation in a “Coming Home Ceremony” this spring. I know that there are many other quiet efforts that students from CVHS ha ve participated in, and I w ant to ac knowledge those students as w ell. You all sho w the world that CVHS students are talented and responsible young adults who gi ve us hope for the future. Several positi ve things happened to the school over the summer, including the completion of the tennis cour ts, the refinishing of the gym floors with an amazing eagle at center cour t, the star t of construction on two classrooms to re place I-1 and I-2, and the arrival of 60 computers. A new computer will be installed in any classroom that had a model more than 4 years old.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STAFF HOPES STUDENTS DO THEIR BEST LINDA LEMELLE HUTCHERSON

MICHELLE COOPER DVMS principal

One of the wonderful things about education is that w e g et a fresh star t eac h fall. We all g et an opportunity to put into practice those v aluable skills lear ned the year before. I believe this is what they call “learning from the past” and what an important life lesson it is. We have a full year ahead of us, and we are excited to begin this jour ney. The staff at Diablo View has been reflecting on and revising our fi ve main goals that suppor t our vision. Here is an update on ho w w e are prog ressing to ward these important goals. 1. Understanding Pre-Adolescence . We can’t ignore the fact that our students are going through hug e emotional and ph ysical changes. Parents, staff and ev en students need to understand these c hanges and ho w they impact their daily li ves. This is not about excusing behavior but about best supporting students through their middle school journey. We will contin ue to infor m parents, students and staff on the latest research reg arding pre-adolescence this school year. 2. Increasing P arent In volvement. Research sho ws that parent in volvement and connectedness to their c hild’s sc hool has a direct cor relation to higher academic achievement. Therefore, we need every parent to par ticipate in some w ay this sc hool

See CVHS, page A11

I am so ex cited about our second year tog ether at Mt. Diablo Elementary School. I know it will be filled with new oppor tunities to g row and evolve as a powerful school community. Three new teachers have joined our staff this year. Fifth-grade teac her Barbara K err comes to us from Riverview Middle School. She has a comprehensi ve bac kground that will k eep our fifth-g raders on the edg e of their seats. New kinderg arten teac her K aren Osterkamp will par tner with Adrienne Davis. Osterkamp has an extensi ve bac kground as a reading specialist and she will be a wonderful addition to our staff. Laura Ploetz, a student teacher and substitute, now becomes a first-g rade teac her. Her infectious enthusiasm and creativity will be a perfect fit for our staff . Our new sc hool psyc hologist, Barbara Blake, joins us from Pine Hollo w and Diablo View middle schools. Blake will be at MDES on Mondays this year. Custodian Howard Flowers has been on board since J uly 1. He has w orked along with our new night custodial team preparing our school for the year. In other dev elopments, the 2006 ST AR assessment results were released on Aug. 15. On the Califor nia Standards T est in English-language ar ts, the percentag e of

See MDES, page A11

Grand tour of colleges offers a window into the future DEIRDRE RUSCITTI

CVHS REPORTER Instead of a traditional vacation this summer , I w ent on what amounted to a giant college tour . And I lo ved it, because I knew that in a year , I would ha ve the oppor tunity to study at one of the places I visited. I sim ultaneously hated it, though, because I knew that it would be a year , a v ery long year, until I’d have the opportunity to lea ve this small to wn called Clayton behind for a new life. As I visited the various campuses, there w as something

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MDES principal

See DVMS, page A11

relieving about ste pping on what could v ery w ell be m y home for four years. I w as filled with a we and relief when I w alked into Columbia Uni versity through the Broadway entrance and sa w the Low Library, or got my first aerial view of the University of Pittsburgh for the Cathedral of Learning, or laughed at the nicknames of Brown’s Library while passing through its majestic gates (the librar y w as named after J ohn R ockefeller, but students have referred to it as both the R ock and the J ohn), or viewed the place where Princeton reject Alexander Hamilton fired on the aforementioned uni versity when British troops used it as a refuge during the Revolutionary War. Suddenly, I could ph ysically

September 8, 2006

see the reason for all the str uggles of high school. Although the a we ling ers, that relief didn’t last long . You see, the colleg e application process unwittingly tur ns students into masoc hists, and masochists aren ’t exactly the epitome of relief. Although I am only in the infant stag es of applying, the actual act of applying doesn ’t seem to be that bad – ev en though it can be cryptic and disorienting. But that isn ’t a problem for me . I can g o through every piece of paperwork if needed. What worries me is the period of limbo that all applicants g o through after they’v e submitted their applications. Dante was on to something when he wrote in “T he Di vine Comedy,” “The small v essel of

my imagination no w hoists its sails and leaves behind it a cr uel sea, and I shall sing of that second kingdom.” But when will I kno w which second kingdom w ants me , Dante? Despite the potential ulcers and tears , the process is w orth it, because college is part of the American Dream. What dri ves illegal immig rants to pour o ver the U .S. border is the same motivation that causes high schoolers to apply en mass to Princeton or Har vard, against huge odds. It’s the hope of a better future. And that is worth it. For comments or questions contact Deirdre at CVHS@claytonpioneer.com

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CLAYTON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB The Cla yton Valley Woman’s Club will kick off their fall season with a w estern barbeque lunc heon at their monthly social meeting on Tues. Sept. 26. The doors will open at 11 a.m., there will be a brief meeting at 11:30 and the barbeque will be ser ved at noon. Entertainment will be pro vided by guitarist J ulie Hughes . The cost of the lunc h is $12 and all are w elcome. For reser vations and infor mation, please call Shirley at 672-1163. The deadline for reservations is Wed. Sept. 20. The Woman’s Club regular Se pt. business meeting will be on Tues. Sept. 12. Coffee will be at 9:30 a.m. with the meeting to follow at 10 a.m. Plans for the upcoming Clayton Valley Kitc hen Tour on Oct. 21 will be discussed.

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There are 12 full-time and five par t-time teac hers joining the CVHS staff this year . Because several new hires ha ve technology experience , we won’t ha ve to de pend on outsiders – we will have the expertise on our staff. We ha ve a larg er than expected student enrollment, with 1,856 students being in attendance on the second day of

DVMS, from page A10 year. Parents can par ticipate in Parent P atrol, School Site Council, Parent F aculty Club , noontime acti vities, classroom help and at home . We will also be asking parents and comm unity members to make an annual donation to suppor t our new technology plan. We will be giving parents infor mation about this fund dri ve at Bac k to School Night on Sept. 13. 3. Increasing Academic Achievement. Staff and the School Site Council will continue dev eloping strategies to increase academic ac hievement. We are training staff on research-based strategies that promote student engagement in

MDES, from page A10 students proficient or abo ve at each grade level are: Grade 2-81 percent; Grade 3-70 percent; Grade 4-80 percent; Grade 573 percent. In mathematics, the results are: Grade 2-88 percent; Grade 3-85 percent; Grade 4-79 percent; Grade 5-75 percent. As a staff , we have reviewed the data and compared it with last year’s results and have identified focus inter vention areas for the year. I will present an analysis of the STAR results at the PFC meeting at 7 p.m. Sept. 19. Everyday at Mt. Diablo Elementary School, we encourage and foster appropriate student behavior. This year, we are implementing an evidenced-

CVWC is a member of the GFW C California F ederation of Women’s Clubs and the General Federation of Women’s Clubs , International and is a non-profit, non-denominational ser vice organization that meets on the second and four th T ues. of the month at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alber ta W ay, Concord. Local c harities benefit from the donations of time and money made b y the Cla yton Valley Woman’s Club members.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN, CLAYTON BRANCH Opening Pr ogram f or 2006 Fall Season . AAUW will host a membership lunc heon and fashion sho w Se pt. 30 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Concord Methodist Churc h, 1645 W est

Street in Concord. A complimentary salad luncheon will be pro vided, and attendees will enjo y a fashion sho w sponsored b y J Jill’ s store of Walnut Creek. There will be a short prog ram featuring the experiences of the recipients of Science Camp scholarships, and a young w oman who recei ved an AAUW sc holarship will be presented. This event will be an opportunity for prospecti ve members, or anyone interested in lear ning more about the Cla yton AA UW, to meet active members and learn about several interesting acti vities planned for 2006 and 2007. All graduates of two or four year colleges are warmly invited to attend on Sept. 30. For all questions or to RSVP, please call Mar y Ann Hayes: 925 672-4391 or Sheila Driscoll: 925 672-7947.

school. The projected enrollment for the 2006-07 sc hool year w as 1,785. Based on the number of students who sho w up during the first two weeks of school, additional staff may need to be hired and additional sections may be added. Meanwhile, we need parents to be members of focus groups as part of our Western Association of Schools and Colleg es (WASC) accreditation. This is an oppor tunity for y ou to ha ve input on the

school’s programs – what is working, what isn’t and new ideas on how to improve. According to teac her Cate Sundling, this is a k ey year because WASC officials will be visiting the sc hool looking for collaboration among the stak eholders – the administration, the teac hers, the students and the community. For more infor mation on the focus g roups, call Sundling at 682-7474, ext. 2686.

their daily lessons. This year, we also will be implementing our new technology plan to provide our students with the most upto-date infor mation and access to technological resources. 4. Communication and Collaboration. We will contin ue to improve the w ay we communicate with our parents and community. Newsletters, mailings, schoolnotes.com and W ake-up Diablo View will contin ue this year, and we are adding ConnectEd. This allo ws us to send all Diablo View families an important recorded messag e in the matter of just min utes. Parents are also encourag ed to comm unicate with the school when they have questions and/or important information to share that can

help us best suppor t their c hild while at school. 5. Respect, Responsibility and Accountability. Our g oal is to dev elop a kinder , more respectful culture whic h w e believe is more conduci ve to learning, as w ell as par t of our responsibility as a public institution. We w ant to celebrate students for academics, work ethic, effort and citizenship . More information about these special events will be shared at Back-toSchool Night and throughout the school year. We w elcome bac k all our fabulous students and are eag er to spend this sc hool year developing a comm unity of citizens who are respectful and responsible life-long learners.

based and researc h-driven positive beha vior suppor t prog ram called BEST , or Building an Effective School Together. This year’s schoolwide focus is the three Bs: Be R espectful, Be R esponsible and Be Safe . Students will be ac knowledged for appropriate behavior reflecting the three Bs. I will be sending home additional information regarding the BEST prog ram this month. I will also present an o verview of the BEST prog ram at the September PFC meeting. Meanwhile, the PFC has done it again, and the goal of air conditioning nine classrooms was completed this summer . Although credit for this tremendous accomplishment belongs

to all of our parents, PFC executive board member Ann Kinney worked relentlessly with the district and the contractors to actualize this dream. There are only four additional classrooms needing air conditioning, and the PFC is committed to the completion of this project. Our new tele phone system also w as installed this summer , and teachers will soon be able to receive voicemail. It is g oing to be a c hallenge to top last year , but it feels so good to know that we just have to contin ue being who w e are and tog ether w e will g et the work done to pro vide ev ery child with a safe , happy and academically ric h lear ning experience.

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Page A12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

‘Retired’ teacher still eager to learn

COLLEEN ELWY

SHARING HISTORY Sue K elson has redefined retirement. After 50 years w orking as a teac her, Sue retired in 2001, but she contin ues to be involved daily in education through numerous org anizations and activities. “Where do I start?” Sue asks as she scrolls through the list of more than 15 org anizations to which she belongs . “I enjo y them all.” Sue’s lo ve of working with children has been in special education. And at ag e 76, you may find her substituting in the Mt. Diablo School District – where she has been a mainstay over the years. “I w as a re presentative for the Mt. Diablo Education Association for 20 years and my husband w as president of that too,” Sue re ports. “I am no w a supervisor for Project Pipeline , which is a Special Education Credentialing prog ram for teachers.”

Sue w as bor n in New Y ork, ting a consociate prog ram but her father accepted a position together where we combined day in Palo Alto in 1949 as she w as classes with a resource teac her about to star t her second year of for this g roup. And then I w as college. Her parents and brother hired at Mountain View moved out to C alifornia and she Elementary, where I w orked for ended up attending UC Berk eley, 21 years.” graduating in political science. When asked what c hanges in While at sc hool, Sue met her education ha ve str uck her the husband. “Walter w as an older most, Sue immediately states , man of 24 when I met him,” she “Computers!” says, smiling. “The war was over “I had one of those old typeand he had been a bombardier writers with the same kind of and he was studying for his maskeyboard at sc hool and the kids ter’s degree.” would ask me where the mouse They later mo ved to was for m y typewriter ,” this area and Sue stayed she sa ys. “They home with their couldn’t ev en four c hildren believe I didn ’t while W alter have a TV taught at Mt. growing up.” Diablo High Sue sa ys School. She her political earned her science m a s t e r ’s b a c k degree in speground has cial education given her in 1980. strong opinRetur ning ions and she to w ork after also is interhaving taught at ested in classtimes, Sue w as room manag eoffered a local position ment. “I think w e working with what need to contin ue SUE KELSON was called the working with the “educationally children to handicapped” program. “I basiexpress ho w impor tant it is for cally went from school to school them to respect adults , listen to w ork with kids for half days when being spok en to and sa y and it w as a new prog ram, so I ‘Thank you’ for recei ving somelearned while on the job ,” she thing,” she sa ys. “It’s no one’ s says. “I was an active part of get- fault, but we need to work harder

on this at school.” In addition, Sue expresses concern that v ocational programs have disappeared from the high sc hools. She would lo ve to see them reestablished to guide students who ma y not c hoose college following graduation. Clayton is dear to Sue , and her life also rev olves around many of the things w e are all familiar with here . Sue is the Clayton Library tutor trainer and also v olunteers at the Cla yton Museum, is a board member and past president of the Cla yton Branch for the American Association of University Women and proudly w ears the title of Queen Mother for the Clayton Red Hat Society. “I organize the group and we do many things tog ether, such as attending plays, teas, going to the races,” says Sue. “We are a g reat group for any one who w ants to join us.” Sue says her many friends and activities k eep her focused. “I think as we get older, we become bionic with our new hips , knees and all. That’s why I am so busy , as I don’t want to think about my aches and pains. I just love all the things I do.” If you ar e a senior li ving in Clayton, or know of a senior that would like to share their life story with the Clayton Pioneer r eaders, please contact Colleen Elwy at 672-9565 or at colleensbyline@aol.com.

Recent heat wave was the worst in at least 50 years

THIS

SATELLITE PHOTO taken on July 22 shows the ridge of high pressure that caused the recent record breaking heat wave.

One of the recur ring g ag lines on the Johnny Carson show was about hot w eather. All Johnny had to sa y during his monologue w as “It w as hot today” and the audience w ould say in unison “How hot was it?” That w ould lead into some funny one-liner about the weather. This past J uly, Clayton and most of California experienced a significant heat w ave. Whenever we have unusual weather conditions, meteorologists sift through records to deter mine how extreme an ev ent actually was. Answering the question “How hot was it?” can involve a lot of effort. Temperature data seems to be everywhere – in newspapers , on the Inter net, TV and radio , displayed in lights at the local bank or on a ther mometer in your car or bac kyard. This data gives us a rang e of how hot it is at the moment and a rang e of what the highest temperature is for the day. Based on arc hived data, it appears that the Cla yton area experienced temperatures in the 110 to 115 deg ree rang e for three consecuti ve da ys, July 2224. Temperature records from Concord Air port indicate maximum temperatures of 100 or hotter were observed July 20-25. Clayton temperatures are usually as warm, or warmer, than those

at the airport. It is rare for a heat w ave to last that long in Cla yton. Typically, Bay Area heat w aves last one to two days because normal heat w aves produce surface pressure patter ns that allo w a cooling sea breeze to develop. Another peculiarity of the July heat wave was that nighttime temperatures remained unusually warm. For example , on July 22, San J ose re ported a record alltime high minim um temperature, and data records at that site go back to 1937. The w arm night temperatures were not limited to the Bay Area. On July 24, the minimum temperature at F resno w as 90, setting an all-time record. A review of the weather patterns during the heat w ave indicates that un usual conditions resulted in the enduring heat and high nighttime temperatures. The accompanying g raphic sho ws a jet stream map (light lines) superimposed on a satellite photograph. The circular jet stream pattern over the West Coast de picts a ridg e of high pressure . Jet stream winds tend to follo w a path parallel to the dra wn lines , and in this case wind f low is clockwise around the ridge. During the J uly heat w ave, this ex ceptionally strong highpressure area was locked in place over the w estern United States . Coastal wind and temperature

patterns indicate that a sea breeze did dev elop as expected, but the high-pressure system was strong enough to k eep the sea breeze winds confined to the immediate coast area. The sea breeze never made it across the hills into the East Bay, and Clayton saw no relief from the heat for several days. The satellite photo , taken on the after noon of July 22, shows clouds (light areas) o ver southern and central Califor nia and a stream of moisture to the southeast of the state. The position of the ridge was ideal for transporting subtropical moisture from Mexico to California. Numerous thundershowers w ere re ported over Souther n Califor nia, the Sierra Nevada and coastal mountains. Clouds and moisture tend to act as a blank et and limit nighttime cooling . Therefore, the record nighttime temperatures were caused by an unusual influx of moisture over the state. The remaining question is: How often does this happen? Unfortunately, long-term records (50 years or more) do

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WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS not exist for central Contra Costa County . We rely on data analyzed for nearby weather stations to make inferences for our area. Comparing the J uly heat wave data with the long-ter m records, the follo wing statements apply to the Clayton area: Events where after noon temperatures ex ceeded 100 for at least four consecuti ve da ys occurred in 1950, 1961 and 1972. Based on statistics developed using three-day average temperatures, which includes both maximum and minim um temperatures, this was the strongest heat wave in at least 50 years. So considering both the da ytime and nighttime temperatures we experienced, it was probably as hot as we will ever experience.

Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist with PG &E. Email y our questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

Auto Accident? Headache, neck, or back pain?

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Model A Cabinet Company is a family-owned & operated business. Owner Scott Carlson, a Clayton resident for the past decade, brings over 20 years of general contracting & cabinet making experience to his craft. Scott will personally measure & build your cabinets to fit your individual style & needs.

Design and remodel / contracting services are available as needed. Contact Scott Carlson to arrange for a free estimate

925.673.0827 925.765.2178 cell Model A Cabinet Company is a licensed General Contractor in the state of California and is fully insured and bonded. Lic. #818588

September 8, 2006

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Clients come first at ComUnity Lending

Est.1972

JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Smith & Bernal

Roofing

If you r un into a mid-sized rusty colored terrier mix named Casey in his m ulti-colored bandanna trotting around T he Village Oaks building, you’ll likely find his o wner, Ted Sudderth close behind. A dog-lo ver and branc h manager of ComUnity Lending in Clayton, Ted is a creature of habit and a man about to wn; a town that he lo ves and literally only leaves when he’ s about to spend the day on Delta with his passion for boating and fishing. “I love Clayton, I don’t like to leave it,” says Ted. He and his wife Judi, who works with him, have lived in the same home for the past 29 years. Except for a short stint with his father’ s Goodyear Tire Company bac k in the late 1960’s, Ted g ot into the mor tgage business in A ugust of 1972 and never looked back. “I made almost $1900 the first year”, he laughed. That certainly didn ’t discourag e him from continuing on. Medallion Mortgage g rew and prospered on Cla yton R oad in Concord for 15 years until T ed decided to move his business to do wntown Clayton. Ted hooked up with a larg e mortgage company called ComUnity Lending that has offices throughout the United

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Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

ComUnity Lending’s Ted Sudderth with Casey.

States. “It was a g ood fit,” says Ted and he has been at Villag e Oaks for the past 16 years as ComUnity Lending. On a da y-to-day basis , Ted handles all types of real estate

loans and g overnment loans and especially likes to deal with the first-time home buyer . “They are ex cited and fun to work with,” says Ted of renters who tak e the v ery impor tant

plunge into homeo wnership. Over the years , Ted’s clients throughout Nor thern California continue to be repeat customers. “Some of my clients have been with us for 20 years . “I enjo y helping people ,” Ted explains. “If a loan doesn ’t make sense, we won’t do it. We pride ourselv es on ethics . We honestly look after our clients first, we come second.” Ted’s appreciation of Clayton g oes far bey ond owning a home and business there for so many years . He is a long-time member of the Clayton Business and Community Association and was in volved in the first Ar t and Wine festival 11 years ago. “I am most proud of that,” he says. Ted and his g olf buddies have w on the CBCA Cla yton Classic g olf tourney six times . He is currently involved in two local fundraisers; one at Rodie’s on Marsh Creek R oad to raise money for a new cat condo for Sarah R odenburg’s adoption facility at the store . He is also raising money for a new park benc h to be constructed at Diamond T errace dedicated to the memor y of one of Ted’s best friends , LeRoy Sc hultz who recently passed away. The total cost of the project is $2700 and monies are being collected at Ed’s Mudville Grill and the Clayton Club Saloon.

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Page A13

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“It made me feel so important to be chosen from so many people,” adds Fitzg erald, who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2000. But it w asn’t until Fitzg erald w as diagnosed with tongue cancer in 2003 that the W ellness Comm unity became an integ ral part of this life. Fitzgerald remembers his wife Gail sa ying, “You need more than me – y ou need to find someone to comm unicate with.” Fitzgerald came face to face with the W ellness Center on McNutt A venue in W alnut Creek and he immediately g ot involved. “They ha ve tr uly taken me under their wing, ” he says. “You w alk through the door and they throw their arms around you.” The Wellness Community is dedicated to providing free support, education and hope for those affected b y cancer . It became a place where Fitzgerald could also gi ve back. He is a member of a life after cancer g roup called the NERDS, people with no evidence of recurring disease, and he leads a new comer g roup once a week for new patients to learn about the center , support

groups and classes. “They (the W ellness Community) are lik em y extended family. I hate to miss a meeting,” he says. Fitzgerald has also been chosen to help with fund-raising in the business comm unity, and he’s par ticipated in special events lik e the Amg en Cycling Tour of Northern Califor nia. In that ev ent, he rode in the motorcade during the time trails and presented the leader , Floyd Landis, with an ev ent Tshirt. In par tnership with the Wellness Community, Amgen is a science-based, patientfocused org anization committed to dev eloping inno vative therapies to treat serious diseases. Fitzgerald’s cancer all-star honors at the San F rancisco Giants game included festivities at the ballpark, a commemorative videotape of his cancer story, photos of Don with his name displa yed on the scoreboard and an oppor tunity to meet colon cancer survivor and former Cincinnati R eds pla yer Eric Da vis – one of three spokespersons for the Strik e Our Cancer program. Fitzgerald’s eag erness to

Photo courtesy of Vince Tarry Photography

DON FITZGERALD

WITH

ERIC DAVIS, spokesperson for Strike Out Cancer.

volunteer his ser vices touc hes all areas of his life . A resident of Clayton on and off for more than 20 years , Fitzgerald w as one of the founding fathers of the no w popular Cla yton Business and Comm unity Association’s (CBCA) Ar t and Wine F estival, which will celebrate its 12th year in 2007. He was instr umental in bringing the Farmers Market to Cla yton some 14 years ag o. He’s often seen at Cla yton Fitness and Tanning, where he finds a great

support team for his cancer recovery and strength conditioning. His support team at home is his wife Gail. They are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary and are looking forward to many more years tog ether. “Without her , I w ouldn’t ha ve made it,” he says. “She has been my strength.” For more information about the W ellness Comm unity, visit www.thewellnesscommunity .org or call 933-0107.

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Page A14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 8, 2006

Upcoming Events OKTOBERFEST

9/11 M EMORIAL FLAG DISPLAY In honor of the devastating attack on the W orld Trade Center five years ag o, the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, Station 11 in Cla yton is featuring a displa y of 343 f lags and brief biographies of those fire fighters who gave their lives to save others. This year, however, there will be no public ceremony on Monda y, Sept. 11, according to Captain Ben Smith. The flags, which were set up by members of local Girl Scouts Cadet Troop 1208 and Jr. Troop 2782, will be on display until Thurs. Sept. 14.

GREEK FESTIVAL Opa! to the 28th ann ual Greek F estival set for Sept. 15, 16 and 17 at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Churc h on Kirker P ass R oad in Concord. Get ready to dance to the m usic of “Fotia” and enjoy the large kids area, Courtyard Café and authentic Greek food and pastries . Festival promoters w ant ev eryone to know that there is ample free parking and free admission on Sunday from 5 to 8 p .m. Festival hours are Fri. from 5 to 11 p.m., Sat. noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday noon to 8 p.m. Admission is $5. Children under 12 are free and seniors 55 and over, $3. St. Demetrios Greek Or thodox Church (across from Sleep Train Pavilion) is located at 1955 Kirk er Pass Rd ., Concord. For information on the festival call (925) 676-6967.

If the toe-tapping sounds of The Internationals got you dancing in the street last year, get ready for plenty more oompah tunes at the third annual Oktoberfest. You can once ag ain ride the Mer ry-GoRound or twirl around and around on the Tilt-A-W hirl at the carnival which opens F riday, Sept. 29 from 5 to 10 p .m. Advance ticket sales (which are discounted) for the carnival are currently available at Aladino’s Pizza, Ed’s Mudville Grill, Skipolini’s, Rodie’s and La Veranda. Pre-sale tickets are $10 for 25. Tickets at the event are $15 for 20. Carnival activities continue Sat. from noon to 10 p .m. and Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. Oktoberfest will fill the streets with g reat m usic and mouthwatering German fare on Sat., Sept. 30 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun., Oct. 1 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The parade down Main Street is set for Sat., at 1 p.m. with the keg tapping by Clayton’s mayor Dave Shuey slated for 1:30 p.m. You w on’t w ant to miss Oktoberfest’ s new additions this year including Marcus , a street perfor mer who will delight audiences with his sho w in the plaza during the two-day festival as w ell as tw o afternoon perfor mancTHE INTERNATIONALS es b y Ba varian dancers in the tent on Saturda y. A special perfor ming bird sho w is par t of the fun on Sunda y afternoon. There will also be a home-brew beer contest with judging on Sunday. If you’re interested in par ticipating in the contest contact call John Rubiales Jr. at 682-9486. Sponsored by the Clayton Business and Community Association, Oktoberfest is expected to draw thousands of people to downtown Clayton for the three-da y ev ent. For more infor mation call the CBCA at 672-2272.

THE

MOVIES

There’s “bad mo vie” (as in “I w ant m y $10 bac k”), and then there’s bad mo vie – a film so hilariously c heesy it’s fun to watch. “Pirates 2: Dead Man ’s Chest: is the for mer; “Snakes on a Plane” is the latter and a better use of your time and money. Compare and contrast: 1. “Pirates”: nearly 3 hours . “Snakes”: under 2 hours. 2. “Pirates”: stunningly racist and insulting to non-Caucasians (the Cannibal Island straight out of a ’30s T arzan film, the killing-off of every black buccaneer on J ack’s ship , the ending reminiscent of “Song of the South”). “Snakes”: Kills the pretty white people first and the non-Caucasians sur vive, even the rap-star’ s henc hman who gets bit on the butt. It’s dar ned refreshing. 3. “Pirates”: a con voluted plot and c haracter rev ersals.

“Snakes”: threadbare plot from a ’70s cop sho w, threadbare characters from a ’70s air -disaster mo vie and ev erything wrapped in a Samuel L. Jackson action film. 4. “Pirates”: a lot of rumdrinking. “Snakes”: a lot of product placement for Red Bull. 5. “Pirates:” 10-minute sword fights . “Snakes”: 10-second smac kdowns with ax es, Tasers and mak eshift flamethrowers. In “Snak es,” Jackson’s FBI agent escor ts a witness f lying from Ha waii to L.A. to testify against a gangster who’ll do anything to stop them – ev en if it means releasing a planeload of CGI cobras, corals and copperheads that outact the people they bite. Complications ensue. The people on the plane come straight from an “Airport” casting call – the adorable kids , the bimbo with the pampered pup, the celebrity and his retinue, the newlyw eds, the sexist pilots, the pluc ky f light attendants. Good luc k remembering 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

This year’ s Kitc hen Tour sponsored b y the Clayton V alley W oman’s Club is set for Sat. Oct. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p .m. The self-dri ving tour includes six new or remodeled kitchens in the Clayton Valley area. Maps and broc hures will be available at Cla yton City Hall courtyard at 6000 Heritage Trail from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 in adv ance and $30 at the door . All proceeds benefit local charities and scholarships. For more information on the kitchen tour call 672-1696.

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

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Kenan Thompson in Snakes on a Plane. their names. A cop’s par tner of 10 years takes a mamba to the chest, and after three seconds of looking grim, the sur viving cop forg ets him for the rest of the mo vie. It’s that kind of film. Ophidiophiles ma y be offended – these mother -loving snakes on this mother -loving plane exhibit very little real re ptilian behavior – and so may airport security personnel. These days, you can ’t g et a car ry-on

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past the g ate, let alone a sidewinder. Don’t come expecting a good mo vie, or ev en a decent action film. Come for the pure cheesiness of a mo vie that delivers what its title promises and is sure to dev elop a lo yal midnight-film following. Jane Mailander is a secretary and a freelance writer. She’s written movie r eviews and short stories and appears for 10 seconds in the film “Trekkies 2.” Email her at movies@claytonpioneer.com.

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September 8, 2006

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page A15

Three great perennials to plant this month Now is a g reat time to w ork in y our g arden, adding those special perennial touc hes. Finetuning some of your g arden beds will add interest to areas that weren’t giving you what you anticipated this summer. September is y our chance to install late spring and summer bloomers comfor tably. The perennial selections at the nurseries are still plentiful, and winter-dormant plants are occasionally offered at a discount. Plus, the upcoming weather will help settle in our new babies, so we will ha ve big ger, more robust plants to enjo y next summer. Three simply rew arding garden additions are Ma ynight Sage, Moonshine Y arrow and Johnson’s Blue Geranium – all proven perennials that thri ve in Clayton Valley gardens. Maynight Sa ge is an alltime favorite with sturdy lea ves, stems and flowers. Purple spikes

stretch 18 inc hes to 2 feet tall, resembling purple candelabra in the garden. Full sun and ref lective

ABUTILON SAVITZII

heat are not a problem for this sage. Maynight begins blooming in Ma y, and spik es can still be found in September. Moonshine Yarrow is found in nurseries everywhere, because it is g reat. This adaptable peren-

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nial is heat- and sun-lo ving, with shocking gray foliage and flat yellow f lowers that are a w elcome sight for the early season butterflies. Another mid-sized plant, Moonshine reaches 2 feet b y 2 feet early in the spring . As the season w ears on, the height of the f lower stalks seem to g et shorter. This plant has little can appeal, so keep that in mind when at the n ursery. But once planted, it is stable and enjoyable. Johnson’s Blue Geranium may look feminine and fragile , but please do not judg e a book b y its co ver. The rambling nature of this perennial can soften the landscape of the most masculine garden. Wide, scalloped lea ves mound around leg gy stems of simple, blue flowers. This is an ex cellent plant – affordable, beautiful and rewarding, with a bon us of great fall color. As your palate of perennials widens, you ma y feel the need for a unique addition to planting beds. Stroll though a n ursery and look for the tw o new ec hinaceas – Sparkler and T wilight, from the Big Sk y Series. Either of these perennials w ould be a great installation for the plant lover who has a w ell-drained,

Call to find out how to put your home to work for you Corky Francis

888-910-9500

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First off , I’d lik e to thank Mayor Shuey for ste pping up and pla ying funny man during the recent lapses in my column. Very nice job , your honor . Now sit do wn before y ou hur t yourself. Just kidding boss . We can nev er g et enough humor these days. So anyw ay … yes I’m not quite as regular as I used to be , but I’ve got yet another new job and life has been pretty busy . Not a g reat ex cuse, but it’ s all I’ve got. I hope y ou all enjo yed the recent Labor Da y holida y. I think it goes without saying that most of us are pretty big fans of holidays. Any excuse for a par ty and a paid day off, right? But ha ve y ou ev er noticed

(925) 672-7323 / 550-2383 Full Broker Co-operation on all Robin’s Ranches listings

Test y our g arden-loving friends to see if they can recognize this ev ergreen perennial. They will be blo wn away when you tell them its family roots. Agastache cana Heather Queen has a refreshing color combination during the hot

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL weather. The rose pink, twolipped f lowers look lik e sherbet on top of 3-foot f lower stems that ha ve a mint-lik e frag rance. This perennial is an ex cellent choice for g ardeners needing something other than pur ple in the summer. As alw ays, install all selections with an appropriate soil amendment or planting mix and water regularly until dormancy. Planting a few perennials ev ery couple of months will form a g arden with year-round interest. Speaking of gardens with year -round interest, we are looking for a few great g ardens to be considered for the 2007 Cla yton Valley Garden T our. If you or someone you know has a beautiful or interesting themed yard or g arden, please send me an email. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or sug gestions at

gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

1.37 acres in unincorporated Concord! Zoned for horses. Build your own estate or build 2 homes & reap the rewards. Approved plans for 4,100 sq. ft. 2-story home. Foundation has been poured. Includes 1923 farm house currently being remodeled & 3 old barns. Close to shops and schools. Welcome to the neighborhood! This lovely home has been remodeled within the last year. Large lot, beautiful home. Park-like back yard, covered patio plus deck off the master. Grand views of Mt. Diablo! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, formal dining. New roof in 2005. Two-car garage.

Kropa Realty Walnut Creek, CA

robin@robinsranches.com

is stag gering. And I’m still only talking about Se ptember. There’s Be Late for Something Day (Sept. 5), followed by Do It Day (aka Fight Procrastination, Sept. 6), Grandma Moses and National F eel the Lo ve Da y (Sept. 7). Oh, don’t forg et Chicken Bo y’s Da y (Se pt. 1). I have no idea what this one’ s all about, but I’m more than willing to take a day off to celebrate. I realize that w e’ve already missed many of these but buc k up me hear ties, Sept. 19 is T alk Like a Pirate Da y. Go out and lift a pint of grog, you scur vy knaves, or y ou’ll be w alkin’ the plank. Arrr. October is just around the corner, which begs us to celebrate Sundried T omato Month, Toilet T ank R epair Month, Squirrel Appreciation W eek (Oct. 1-7), International Magic Week (Oct. 25-31, culminating on Oct. 31 with National Magic Day, so P eter Mor rison better be g earing up for this one), Balloons Around the World Day

(Oct. 4), World Smile Day (Oct. 6), National Kic k Butt Da y (Oct. 9) and Crank y CoWorkers Day (Oct. 27). I believe this day is celebrated by slapping the hell out of an annoying coworker. Enjoy! As you can see, we’ve barely scratched the surface. There are days celebrating ev erything from W hat if Cats and Dogs Had Opposable T humbs Da y (March 3) to Barbie and Bar ney Backlash Day (Dec. 16) – more than enough da ys to justify a paid holida y to g oof off (I mean besides National Goof Off Day, which is Marc h 22) and far too many to list here . And if I forg ot any, we can honor m y o versight on J uly 2, which is I F orgot Da y. Try to remember to put it on y our calendar. Clayton resident, Joe Romano, is a family man, a fr ee-lance writer for hire and the Pioneer’s “all around funny guy.” E-mail him at jromano01@yahoo.com

R & M’s exquisite collection of Fountains Come by and experience all aspects of the garden:

Paradise is just outside your door. Country Quiet, city CLOSE! Bring your family, horses, dogs, vineyard or ??? 3 Bedrooms 3 Full Baths. 2,400 Sq Ft home built in 1985, completely renovated in 2004. 3 sliding doors to spacious deck and pastoral views of countryside!

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Robin’s Ranches

MAY NIGHT SAGE

that the calendars are chock-full of holidays that go pretty much unobserved? W e need to star t making a better effor t to celebrate some of these overlooked festivals. Let’s tak e Se ptember for example. Did y ou kno w that September is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Month? Well, you would if you could sit still long enough to read this. On Se pt. 4, somebody celebrated Newspaper Car rier Da y. Does any one really car ry the newspaper anymore? Some guy in a beat-up old car “car ries” our paper into the sprinklers every mor ning. But in celebration, let’s bring back the kid with a can vas newspaper sac k slung over his shoulders . That should make some kid happy. No? Then ho w about Se pt. 12, Video Game Da y? I think this day w as probably celebrated a little too m uch this past summer. The n umber of monthly, weekly and daily “obser vances”

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Stachys Hidalgo is a member of the family commonly called lamb’s ears. This perennial is not easily found, but it’s awesome if you g et the c hance to install it. Fragrant, wooly g ray lea ves are the only familiar par t of this plant, and the bloom is desirable and unique . Salmon-colored, two-lipped blossoms stand 18 inches tall, while the foliag e can stretch 30 inches wide.

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amended spot in the g arden with moderate w ater and no drips. Sparkler is a v ariegated variety in the ec hinacea family. The flower is similar in shape to the cone-flower that w e all recognize, but the foliag e is spec kled with white – thus its name . From the time this plant emerges in the spring, it adds interest with the leaf . As the weather w arms, the blossom forms, exposing a subtle medium pink flower. Twilight is a dee p, rose-tinted red, almost like the brightest crape m yrtle. People who collect plants will lo ve this color of cone-flower. The fragrance is a bonus with this sturdy perennial. Abutilon Savitzii is a v ariegated selection of the plant commonly called a f lowering maple. This semi-ev ergreen perennial has made its way into many Cla yton V alley gardens. The sho wy lea ves of green, edged in cream, give a garden contrast and interest. Parasol-shaped, light apricot colored f lowers are fabulous summer through fall. They can be container or g round-grown, with light mor ning sun or filtered shade.

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Page A16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 8, 2006

georgevujnovich.com

Trust your home to

GEORGE VUJNOVICH , Broker Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell their homes since 1979

backs to 7th fairway with wooded, golf course, lake & surrounding hill views! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approximately 1,554sf, inside laundry & attached 2 car garage! Quiet rear end unit setting. Upgraded laminate wood floors in living/dining area, family room & kitchen. Gourmet kitchen with tile counters/breakfast bar , all white appliances & maple cabinets. Master suite looks out to golf course, hills & lake. Cozy rear deck with lawn area backs to tranquil/serene golf setting. $565,000

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

WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

DIABLO RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

Premium golf course lot!

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

Highly desirable single story “Clayton” model! nestled on a quiet

court with views of oak dotted hills, valley, city & golf course! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1,500sf. Living & dining areas feature vaulted ceiling, laminate floors & upgraded lighting. Kitchen with wood floors, tile counters, upgraded lighting & bay window eating nook. Master suite with wall length closet & sitting area with views! Private lot features a trellis covered Saltillo tile patio’s & walkways, lawn area , lots of flowers & sweeping views. $649,000

IRONWOOD / WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

Spectacular “Lassen” model! tucked away on a quiet court with views of hills, open space & city lights! 4 bedrooms, plus upgraded loft, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,162sf, 2 fireplaces & 3 car garage! Upgrades include: laminate wood, tile & carpet floors, dramatic light fixtures, thick baseboards & designer paint colors & cabinet treatments! Gor geous gourmet kitchen features slab granite counters, break-fast bar & center island. Separate formal dining room with upgraded columns.Huge master suite with fireplace & jetted tub! Private professionally landscaped lot features an exposed aggregate patio, nice lush lawn area, many trees & colorful flowers. $995,000

Stunning “Doral” model with all the upgrades! 4 bedrooms plus a loft/bonus room,

3 baths, approx. 2,674sf & 3 car garage! Downstairs bedroom & full bath. New neutral carpet, upgraded marble & ceramic tile flooring, designer paint & window coverings incl: wood, pleated & silhouette blinds. Gourmet kitchen features slab granite counters, lar ge island, maple cabinets & pantry. Master suite of fers rare & upgraded fireplace option with travertine tile & overlooks open space. Private lot features a custom slate patio, lawn area & towering redwoods. $789,000

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

Absolutely immaculate!

Superbly Upgraded “Candlelight” model! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 2,843sf & 3

“Waterford” model backs to open space on lar ge lot boasting a private paradise setting featuring a refreshing pool with spa & waterfall feature, trellis covered BBQ island! 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,200sf & rare 4 car garage! Gourmet kitchen opens to spacious family room. Enormous master suite features a retreat with fireplace & balcony overlooking open space! $1,159,000

car garage! Upgraded extended 16” tile floors from entry to kitchen. Formal living & dining room feature upgraded window trim & views of hills. 1st level bedroom & full bath. Upgraded carpet, tile & laminate flooring, light fixtures & window coverings. Slab granite gourmet kitchen. Spacious master suite with retreat & views of open space/ridge. Upgraded master bath! Lar ge level pool size lot backs to open space & features an expansive custom stamped concrete patio, lar ge lawn area & vibrant professional landscape. $935,000

Clayton Market Update

DANA HILLS!

Original owner has meticulously maintained this spacious 4 bedroom plus a

Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty

huge bonus room, 2.5 bath home. Approximately 2,619sf. Large downstairs bedroom, living room & separate formal dining room of f kitchen. Kitchen features tile counters & eating area. Family room offers a brick fireplace with raised hearth. Spacious master suite! Large secondary bedrooms have Mt. Diablo views. Bonus room with dual sliding glass doors leading to balcony with hill views. Private lot features patio, lar ge lawn areas, towering $849,000 trees & views of Mt. Diablo!

PENDING PROPERTIES

ADDRESS

Black Diamond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$525,000 Ironwood/Windmill Canyon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$849,000 Windmill Canyon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$799,000

Mortgage Market Update

Conforming $417,000 or less

Jumbo $417,001 and up

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . . . .6.5% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . .6.375% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .6.375% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . . . .6.5% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.25% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.625%

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . . . .6.5% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . .6.625% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .6.625% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . . .6.75% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.375% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.875%

329 Ahwanee Lane 54 Marquette Ct 821 Savignon Ct 1016 Tiffin Dr 52 La Honda Ct 19 Barcelona Wy 31 Nottingham Pl 38 Jalalon Pl 315 Windmill Canyon 5155 Keller Ridge Dr 632 Julpun Loop 1000 Panadero Way 109 Forest Hill Drive 2 Nottingham Circle 1824 Ohlone Heights 328 Ahwanee Lane 635 Mt. Duncan Drive 1049 Kenston Drive 303 Saclan Terrace 3405 Coyote Circle 365 Blue Oak Lane 202 Round House Pl 1391 Yosemite Circle 3905 Coyote Cir 711 Acorn Drive 235 Mountaire Pkwy 1131 Peacock Creek Dr 32 Jalalon Place

PRICE $975,000 $680,000 $795,000 $816,500 $825,000 $800,000 $890,000 $670,000 $640,000 $769,500 $660,000 $725,000 $1,039,000 $780,000 $780,000 $1,198,000 $940,000 $940,000 $659,980 $495,000 $1,100,000 $610,000 $690,000 $455,000 $1,055,000 $885,000 $1,085,000 $524,000

SALE DATE

08/24/06 08/23/06 08/23/06 08/22/06 08/16/06 08/15/06 08/14/06 08/11/06 08/10/06 08/10/06 08/03/06 08/02/06 08/01/06 07/28/06 07/27/06 07/26/06 07/21/06 07/20/06 07/18/06 07/11/06 07/07/06 07/07/06 06/30/06 06/29/06 06/28/06 06/26/06 06/26/06 06/25/06

2,944 1,568 2,052 1,815 2,390 2,324 2,262 1,939 1,501 2,313 1,904 1,501 2,700 2,088 2,313 3,416 2,960 2,807 1,991 1,252 2,981 1,749 1,734 1,026 2,836 2,960 2,748 1,235

BED/BATH 4/2.5 4/2 4/2.5 3/2 4/2.5 5/2.5 4/2.5 3/2.5 3/2 4/2.5 3/2.5 3/2.5 3/2.5 4/2 4/2.5 4/3.5 5/3 4/2 3/2.5 2/2.5 4/2.5 3/2.5 3/1.5 2/2 3/3 5/3 4/2 2/2

CLAYTON PIONEER September 8, 2006

Section B

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B1

Historic London also a culinar y experience these days Americans often think of the United Kingdom in ter ms of romantic novels, fairy tales of jousting knights and faithless queens and distant images of craggy cliffs and hilltop castles. Much of that still exists, yet much has changed in this moder n country (which is smaller than the state of Oregon). For the next two months, come with me as I explor e the bustling beauty of southern England. JEANNA ROSS Special to the Pioneer

A typical trip to souther n England begins with a f light into London’s Heathro w Air port. One of the busiest hubs in the world, Heathrow services airlines I didn’t even know existed: LOT Polish Airlines , Aer Lingus , and Uzbekistan Airw ays to name a few. I didn’t see it when I ar rived, but on de parture I w as g reeted with the vir tual shopping mall that occupied the inter national departure ter minal. If I missed a souvenir during my time in the city, I could simply hit Harrods, Cartier and Chanel while waiting for m y flight. The city is incredibly easy to navigate, once I acquired a Travelcard and a map. The s ubway system, commonly referred to as the “T ube,” is color -coded and the maps and signs are user friendly. Within a day, I was winging my way from one side of the city to the other like a pro. However, before any one steps off that train, they m ust “Mind the Gap.” I saw it posted on the g round and heard it o ver the speak ers, and yet apparently

dozens of people eac h year fall into the (sometimes rather substantial) space betw een the train and the platform. One of the more humorous moments of the journey was my guide’s constant ability to reference the buildings w e were g aping at as “new” if they were built after the 18th centur y. Being from a state where Old Sacramento is the height of historical relev ance, I just had to shake my head and roll my eyes – but not for long . I was too busy sighing o ver the romanticism of the W hite T ower of the T ower of London, built in 1066 by William the Conqueror and no w used as a museum for armaments. The same feeling of awe str uck ag ain when viewing the motte-and-bailey Windsor castle and the R oman Baths . How many pieces of our cur rent constr uction will still be standing in more than 900 years? Heck, my house is only 10 years old and the doors already stick. The food in London is notoriously bad, but – lik e any major city – haute cuisine has made an appearance, as ha ve the American c hains. It’s impossible to g o anywhere without stumbling across a McDonald’s, Pizza

Hut or TGI F riday’s (billed as “the American Bar and Grill”), but as I was in the mood for traditional food, I sought out the pubs a vailable on ev ery other corner. I fear most ma y be there for the tourists , as the signboards outside proclaim “ Authentic British Food.” But they also seem to be cro wded with the cor rect accents at night, so I’ll hope that occasionally the a verage Brit indulges in fish and c hips (curiously ser ved with smashed peas at almost every locale). Though contrar y to m y first instinct, I avoided the tarter sauce and reached for the malt vineg ar (When in Rome ...) and w as duly rewarded. I ma y need to begin patronizing Mr . Pickwick’s on Clayton Road to indulge my new craving. I didn ’t stic k to traditional foods, though: Over the course of the week, I tasted Moroccan, Japanese, Middle Eastern, Italian and lots of chicken. Trying to starve in London w ould be lik e not being able to find something worthwhile in San Francisco. The only do wnside to this gastro-indulgence w as the astronomical price of everything I set

eyes upon. The cur rency in London is the pound sterling and the exchange rate during m y trip was horrid. I literally doubled the

Photos by Jeanna Ross

THE TOWER BRIDGE has stood over the River Thames in London since 1894 and is one of most recognizable bridges in the World. Below left, the iconic red phone booth is a welcome splash of color on the frequent gray days. Below, right, the emblematic double decker bus, great for sightseeing, is seen all over London. price of everything I sa w. A 5 pound half sandwich from a corner buttery became a $10 meal – enough to sit do wn and ha ve someone ser ve it to me in Concord. Souvenir shopping posed an even larg er problem, though I curbed my chagrin by reminding myself that if I couldn’t buy it in America, then it w ould cost a great deal more to buy it online and ha ve it shipped. Under that logic, I manag ed to sm uggle home an entire duff le bag of

goodies without the slightest twinge of guilt. According to my guide, hotels in London can top out at about 7,000 pounds per night, but much more reasonable rates are available in areas outside the city center. Basically, anywhere accessible b y the T ube is delightful, since no matter where I sta y, I’ll need to hop onto the train to reach the sight I wish to visit. I stayed in Notting Hill, at the Somerset Ba yswater. The traditional Victorian cream building

had sleek, black wrought-iron rails outside but w as completely renovated inside . My room boasted a kitc henette and entertainment center alongside the typical European twin beds and streamlined Ikea furniture. The ser vice w as impeccable , the bed cozy, and the sheets were soft and changed every other day during m y sta y. For what more could I ask? In the next issue , we’ll head out from London and visit the wonders of Bath.

(925) 672-8787 www.LynneFrench.com Lynne@LynneFrench.com

omeone who’s always on the go and always in the know, Lynne French’s natural energy and positive personality drive her to make the most of every moment, whether it’s in her hobbies, in her home life with husband, Danny, or in her role as one of the area’ s leading real estate professionals. With such a determined approach, it’s easy to see how Lynne has made such a

lasting impact through her long-running real estate career. By working her hardest and providing the most possible options, she has helped many Discover the Possibilities in the East Bay Area real estate market. Whether you’re buying or selling, Lynne French and her team are the ones to know for a higher level of service. Give them a call today and experience the difference for yourself.

6200-E Center St.

Clayton, CA 94517

Page B2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 8, 2006

Clayton Sports

Dives are golden for 13-year-old Clayton boy BEV BRITTON Clayton Pioneer

After a six-year drought, the United States once ag ain had a diver at the top of the medal stand at the J unior Worlds last month. The honor w ent to 13year-old Cla yton resident Kristian Ipsen. Kristian took the g old in the 1-meter ev ent in the 14-15 ag e group at the 16th Fina J unior World Diving Championships in Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia, on Aug. 23-27. “I had an idea that I w as going to win on m y second to last di ve,” recalls Kristian, who didn’t have expectations of gold before heading to Mala ysia. “Right after I hit the w ater, I knew I had done it and I felt so happy and proud.” For his final di ve, he pulled off a reser ve 1 ½ with 2 ½ twists. “Not many people w ere doing that dive,” he notes, “so it had a high degree of difficulty.” Kristian came home with two medals from the Junior Worlds – the other being a bronze in the 3meter di ve. Nick McCror y of North Carolina w on the United States’ other medal, a silver in the 3-meter di ve. That put the United States a distant third behind China and the Ukraine. The g old w as an emotional victory for Kristian, his father Kent, coach Phil Tonne and the 15 other U.S. divers. “I could hear the whole U .S. team screaming, even under the water,” Kristian says with a sh y smile. “Words can ’t describe the emotions I w as feeling during the medal ceremony ,” says his dad. “To see the U .S. flag being hoisted and the national anthem playing, you just cry.” For coac h T onne, it w as a “dream come true.” “Most coac hes can only dream of having a world champion,” says T onne, who has coached the Diablo Di vers out of Heather F arm in W alnut Creek since 1979. He’s also the diving coach at UC Davis. The elation after Kristian ’s gold medal ceremony w as tempered, however, by the exhausting jour ney bac k to the hotel. According to K ent, “typhoon style” rains had f looded roads so the 45-minute bus ride wasn’t an option. A train g ot them within three miles of the hotel before the tracks washed out. “His big hero’s welcome back to the hotel came after an hour and a half walk in flood waters,” says his dad, now able to laugh about their predicament. The hero’s w elcome continued upon their return to Clayton on Aug. 29. “He just wanted his

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

IPSEN

SHOWS OFF HIS GOLD AND

from the Junior World Diving Championships last month in Malaysia.

BRONZE MEDALS

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

KRISTIAN IPSEN

TAKES A PRACTICE DIVE

grandma’s homemade stew ,” Kent sa ys. The celebration at Rene Cleary’s home was delayed slightly because Kristian fell asleep in the car on the shor t ride over. The 27-hour trip home, coupled with early practice times in Malaysia and late ev ening competition, had w orn him out. During an interview at his home on Aug. 30, he was also battling a head cold. This summer, Kristian prac-

into the pool in his Clayton backyard after returning from the Jr. World Championships in Malaysia.

ticed for four to five hours a day, five to six days a week. And, for the most part, he loved it. “Sometimes it’ s fr ustrating, when you are trying to do a dive that y ou kno w y ou can do , but something isn ’t quite right – maybe y our head is tur ned slightly,” he says, comparing it to the fine-tuning required in his golf game. Tonne sa ys Kristian is v ery focused and dedicated, noting that he’s a straight A student at

the P almer Sc hool in W alnut Creek. “He’s very family-oriented. He’s just a g reat, all-around kid,” says the coach. Those strong family ties were evident during the interview, as he encourag ed 10-yearold sister Lauren to be a par t of the photo shoot. She also di ves and is aiming for the J unior Olympics next season. But mom Y vette maintained to Kristian: “This is your time.” Kristian is matter -of-fact as

he describes his hectic da ys, with homew ork time usually beginning about 7:30 p .m. “I have to write myself a schedule, so I sta y in order ,” he sa ys. “I can’t w aste time . I ha ve to be really organized.” Kristian beg an diving at ag e 6 ½ and knew he w as a success when he won gold in the 13 and under at the U .S. Nationals at age 10. “No one else had won at that ag e,” he sa ys with pride , “and I had the highest score in

that age group ever.” His coac hes knew early on that he had g reat potential. “You could tell right away that he had a lot of natural ability,” says Tonne. “He w as v ery coordinated and knew where he was in the air.” Next up for Kristian will be competition at the senior lev el, with a possible berth on the 2008 or 2012 Olympic team. “I think they have great hopes for him in the 2012 games,” says his dad. At 5-2 and 118 pounds, he is in the early stag es of his teenage g rowth spur t. “It c hanges your center of gravity,” Tonne notes. “But so far, he’s been able to adjust because he’ s been growing at a slow, steady pace.” Although Kristian sa ys the Olympics w ould be “really nice,” he and his family have no intention of moving to Indianapolis to be near the training center. “They just w ant it to be something I do for fun,” he says. “Getting into a g ood colleg e is the main thing for us right now.” But before any of that, there is high school – with De La Salle at the top of his wish list for next year. Kristian says he would dive for the sc hool while maintaining his sc hedule with the Diablo Divers. If Kristian mak es it to the Olympics, it would be a first for the Diablo Divers. According to Tonne, he’s the most talented athlete they’ve seen. A few years back, Clayton V alley’s K evin Caro was a stand-out, “but he’s not quite as g ood as Kristian, ” the coach reports. For the eight-time U .S. national c hampion, each new dive is an adventure. “It’s just suc h an adrenaline rush when y ou’re on the 10meter platfor m, 32 feet in the air,” Kristian says with g rowing enthusiasm. “It’s scar y, but when you accomplish it, there’s no better thing.”

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September 8, 2006

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Sports MDSL Xtreme U-14 Girls remain undefeated

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Great Court Location MDSL XTREME PLAYERS BEING INTERVIEWED BY THE CW TELEVISION NETWORK for an upcoming commercial. Standing: Ali Roberts, Anna DeBoer, Caroline Bonilla, Laura Pargett, Abbey Wilkins, Cara Vereshagin, Rachel Anderson, Holly Day, Hannah Moreno, Michaela Alvers. Kneeling: Ashley Edson, Landis Grant, Sierra Jackson, Jay Taylor.

Mt. Diablo Soccer League’ s Under 14 Girls Class III Gold Team, Xtreme, remains undefeated in tour nament pla y after an intensely fought tw o to one victory over the F olsom Breeze in the c hampionship final of Dublin’s Shamroc k In vitation Tournament August 26-27. Their other tour nament victories this year include Concord Cup in May, the Solano Summer Classic on A ug 5-6 and the Newark Referee Classic on A ug 19-20 “This is a g reat g roup of

girls that are dedicated and talented soccer pla yers, but they also understand what it means to be a team, said Coac h Ric h Taylor. “Their fantastic c hemistry, both on and off the field, has pla yed a hug e par t in their success so far this season.” Because of the team’ s first place finishes at the Solano Summer Classic and New ark Referee Classic they ha ve been invited to the inaugural Celebrate Soccer T our Invitational T ournament. Only 12 Ba y Area teams qualify to

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CVHS tourney attracts alumni RANDI HAGEN Special to the Pioneer

The Cla yton V alley High School Boosters Club sponsored its 15th ann ual golf tournament Mon., Aug. 21 at Oakhurst Countr y Club, raising much-needed funds for CVHS’s football and golf programs.

The winning foursome of Jennifer Moore , Jeff Larmore, Mike Donnelly and T ony Saracheno edg ed out tw o other foursomes in a hotly contested match with a net score 60. Of the 80 golfers enjoying a sunny after noon round many were CVHS alumni of the class of 1976 which was celebrating a

30th class reunion. All tour ney par ticipants enjoyed contest holes , raffle prize dra wings, and silent auction items , capped off by a post-tournament banquet. The Boosters Club suppor ts all athletic programs at Clayton Valley High Sc hool. For more info , contact www.cvhsboosters.org.

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MANY CVHS ALUMNI PLAYED IN THE TOURNAMENT which raised money for CVHS sports equipment. Front row, from left: Steve Simmons, Debra Gonsalves, Todd Rasmussen, George Bottom, Steve Bottom, Larry Zeidler, Eric Lund, Herc Pardi and Pete Laurence. Back row from left: Ron Coccimiglio, Jess and Joe Santucci, Les Garaventa, Ron Simmons, Matt Mazzei, John Mahloch, Steve Gonsalves, Craig Olson, Larry Fogelstrom, Dale Bottom, Bob Royster, Tom DiMercurio, Pete Carpino, Pierre Peterson and Roger Zino.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Sports

We have new “QUBICA-AMF” scoring

MDSL Hawks win big at Summerfest FRANZ RIEDEL Special to the Pioneer

The Mount Diablo Soccer League (MDSL) Ha wks U14 Boys Class III par ticipated in the 2006 W alnut Creek Summerfest Soccer T ournament, Aug 26-27. On Saturda y, the Ha wks played their first qualify g ame against the Mustang Comets from Dan ville. The Ha wks came out ag gressively through excellent passing, shooting and defense to the beat Comets 5-0. The second qualify g ame on Saturday w as pla yed ag ainst Walnut Creek United. Again the Hawks set the pace of the game by scoring early and constantly to win the game 10-0. This scoring c harge w as led b y the forwards of Fernando V esga, Maynor Guer ra, Tyler Brig gs, Andrew Davis and Stefan Riedel. On Sunda y the Ha wks played ag ainst the DeAnza Quest 92 from Cuper tino/ Saratoga area. Both teams had won their previous g ame and the winner of this g ame would go to the c hampionship and loser to the consolation g ame. The Ha wks w ere able to score three goals in the first half. The DeAnza team toughened up in the second half by not allowing any more goals. But the Hawks defense , led b y g oalie Mario Bar reto, defenders, Ryan

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THE MDSL HAWKS U14 BOYS TEAM. Left to Right Standing: Coach Rich Bravo, Michael Freitag, Eric McCosker, Ben Snow, Ryan Briggs, Mario Barreto, Fernando Vesga, Andrew Davis, Joseph Hernandez, Coach Franz Riedel and Nick Romolino. Kneeling: Stefan Riedel, Tyler Briggs, Maynor Guerra, Joey Swain, Anthony Martin, Luke Blasi and Matt Bravo.

Briggs, Nick R omolino, Eric McCosker, Joey Sw ain and Anthony Mar tin w ere able to continue their prior success of getting another shutout. Final score of the g ame: Hawks 3 DeAnza 0. As a result of the three qualifying wins the Ha wks played in the c hampionship g ame on Sunday ag ainst the winner of the second f light, the Ballistic United Soccer Club (B USC)

Black from Pleasanton. The c hampionship g ame started with BUSC Black able to score the first g oal of the game and the first goal that the Hawks had given up in the tournament. The Ha wks responded to this challenge in the first half by scoring four unansw ered g oals via our halfbacks of Matt Bravo, Joseph Her nandez, Luke Blasi, Ben Sno w and Mic hael F reitag. The Black was able to get a sec-

ond g oal prior to the end of first half on a penalty g oal kick to end the first half 4-2 Hawks. In the second half, Hawks tighten up the defense and were able to score tw o more g oals on counter-attacks. Final c hampionship score MDSL Ha wks 6 BUSC Black 2. The third year MDSL Hawks are coac hed b y F ranz Riedel, Richard Bravo and trainer Mike Hoffert.

MDSL Blues win Tiburon Fall Kick-off The MDSL Blues U-11 girls held off the Mustang Stampede in a nail biting final to triumph in the 2006 Tiburon Fall Kick-Off tournament during the weekend of Aug. 26-27 at Friends Field in Mill Valley.

September 8, 2006

In their first match up, goals scored b y Bianca R ubalcava and K elsey Randall lifted the Blues past the F remont Lightning 2-1. The second match ended in a 1-1 tie with the Folsom Xtreme. Savannah

MDSL BLUES U11 GIRLS TEAM. Front row (left to right sitting): Kelsey Randall, Kiana Mason, Madison Malone and Lauren Wardle. Middle row (kneeling): Julianna Di Loreto, Bianca Rubalcava, Daniela Rodriguez, Jennifer Tasarz, Gianna Colvis, Taylor Mangini and Brianna Krampetz. Back row (standing): Coach Jason Bruni, Savannah Bruni, Katie Molyneux, Kelly Lowery, Carly Wohlleb, Cassie Taylor, Alicia Costanza and Coach Clark Colvis.

Bruni scored the Blues’ lone goal with assists from Bianca Rubalcava and Gianna Colvis. In g ame three , the Blues went up ag ainst the Li vermore Fury in a close contest in which the Blues prevailed 2-1. Goals scored b y Kiana Mason and Taylor Mangini put the Blues into the afternoon final. The girls w orked hard to hold off the Mustang Stampede in the ex citing final match for their first tour nament win of the season. A single g oal scored b y Gianna Colvis in the second half was enough to put the Blues in the winner’s circle. A k ey ing redient to the Blues tour nament win w as an excellent defensi ve effor t led by Brianna Krampetz and Jenny T asarz, as w ell as b y wings T aylor Mangini and Kelsey Randall. Goal k eepers Katie Molyneux and Carly Wohlieb made many outstanding pla ys during the tour nament. Carly W ohlieb made a crucial sa ve in the c hampi-

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September 8, 2006

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., SEPT. 13 FOR THE SEPT. 22 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com

SEPT. 11 Trails and Landscape Committee Meeting @ Clayton Library Meeting Room 7 p.m. An advisory committee to the Clayton City Council the committee is responsible for informing the Council and ultimately the public about the status of the Landscape District. Our meetings are always open to the public. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road. SEPT. 12 - NOV. 16 Patty Cakes and Picture Book Time @ Clayton Community Library Patty Cakes - 11 a.m. Tuesdays, story time for birth to 3 years. No registration required. Picture Book Time - 11 a.m. Thursdays, child may attend without parent. For 3 to 5 year olds. No registration required. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. SEPT. 12 The Art of Retirement Classes @ Loma Vista Adult Center, Concord 7 - 9 p.m. The course is five weeks in length and costs just $17 for people 55-plus. Topic for first class is a course overview. What is retirement, who retires, and when? Upon the completion of the course, students should know themselves better in light of their quest for a successful, meaningful retirement. Loma Vista Adult Center, located at 1266 San Carlos Ave. in Concord. Call (925) 937-1530 for registration information. For more information on the class, please call instructor George Fulmore at (925) 6866916. SEPT. 12 Clayton Knitters @ Clayton Community Library. 3 - 5 p.m. Old hand at knitting or just starting? Come join like-minded folks for an afternoon at the library. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, 673-0659. SEPT.13 Mt. Diablo Creek Watershed Planning Group Meeting @ Farm Bureau Hall 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Regional and state park agency representatives will describe how parks and trails fit into our efforts to enhance watershed health, public health and quality of life. Recommendations on habitat conservation and restoration will be discussed. No charge. For more information, contact Jessica Hamburger, Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, 925-672-6522 x118, jessica.hamburger@ca.nacdnet.net, www.ccrcd.org. Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. SEPT. 13 Creekside Artists Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 7 p.m. If you are a local artist come join other like minded artisans for the fifth meeting of the Clayton Creekside Artists. 673-0659. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road. SEPT. 15, 16, 17 28th Annual Greek Festival @ St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church Fri. 5 - 11 p.m., Sat. 12 - 11 p.m., Sun. 12 - 8 p.m. Authentic Greek food and pastries, live music and dancing, courtyard café, and featuring the music of "Fotia." Kids area, ample free parking. Admission is $5 adults, $3 seniors 55 and older, children under 12 are free. Free admission 5-8 Sun. St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 1955 Kirker Pass Road, Concord. For info call 676-6967. SEPT. 15 - OCT. 7 Footloose: The Musical @ CTA Crossroads Theatre Based on the 1984 hit movie, Footloose tells the story of a free-spirited teen, Ren, who moves to a town where dancing is outlawed. With the support of the teenagers in town Ren takes on small-town small-mindedness to shake up the community. An exuberant story of families, healing and dancing. CTA Crossroads Theatre, 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek, 925-9440597, www.ctacrossroads.org. SEPT. 16 7th Annual Free California Symphony @ Todos Santos Plaza, Concord 6 p.m. - "A&E Pops on the Plaza" concert. Bring folding chairs or blankets and picnics. Limited seating is available in the seniors section on a firstcome basis. Free raffle for prizes donated from local businesses. Maestro Barry Jekowsky has planned a program called "serious fun," including selections from movie blockbusters, Haydn's Toy Symphony, PDQ Bach's 1712 Overture and patriotic favorites, including a sing-a-long. ABC 7 News anchor Dan Ashley will emcee. For more information call 925-280-2490 or 222.californiasymphony.org. SEPT. 16 James Clark - A tribute to Elvis @ Cal State East Bay 6 p.m. gates open, opening act at 7 p.m., main act at 8 p.m. 7th Annual Concert in the Hills Series closes with this great Elvis tribute band. Admission and parking is free, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Road at Campus Drive, Concord, www.concertinthehills.com or 925-602-8654.

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SEPT. 19 Peripheral Neuropathy Support Group @ First Christian Church 1:30 p.m. Peripheral neuropathy is a neurological disease that causes feet and/or hands to tingle, feel numb, painful, burning hot, or freezing cold. Speaker is Len Saputo, M.D., inventor of Big Foot, currently featured in a clinical study at the Dept. of Veterans Affairs Martinez Outpatient Clinic. Dr. Saputo will talk about the study and neuropathy in general. For more information contact Ernette, 889-2464 or Wanda, 934-5017. First Christian Church, Fellowship Hall, 3039 Willow Pass Road, Concord.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS SEPT. 10, OCT. 8 Concord Mystery Book Club @ Concord Library 2:30 - 4 p.m. All mystery readers are invited to participate and explore a different genre each month. Group meets the second Sun. of the month. Concord Library, 2900 Salvio Street, Concord, 646-5455. SEPT. 11 Clayton Valley 4-H Club @ Farm Bureau Hall, Concord 7 p.m. Youth ages 5 - 19 and adults come join 4-H. New and returning member registration night. Many projects available: leadership, community service, 4-H camp, conferences, fairs and country events. Snacks and activities provided. 4-H is a cooperative program through the University of California Cooperative Extension. For info call Candy Hogan at 925 9691325. We believe in developing youth through learning experience and service. Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Road, Concord. SEPT. 12, 19, 26 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. See Club News for more information. SEPT. 12, 26 Clayton Valley Woman's Club Meeting @ Holy Cross Lutheran Church 9:30 a.m. coffee, 10 a.m. meeting. Plans for the upcoming Clayton Valley Kitchen Tour on Oct. 21 will be discussed. Clayton Valley Woman's Club meets on the second and fourth Tues. of the month. CVWC is a non-profit, non-denominational service organization. Local charities benefit from the donations of time and money made by the club's members. For information, please call Shirley at 672-1163. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. SEPT. 12 Concord Chamber of Commerce @ Crowne Plaza Hotel 7:45 a.m. Small Business Development Center speaking on marketing and technology. $12/members, $20/non-members. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Dr., Concord. SEPT. 13 Creekside Artists Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 7 p.m. If you are a local artist come join other like minded artisans for the fifth meeting of the Clayton Creekside Artists. 673-0659. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road. SEPT. 13, OCT. 11 Newcomers' Club of Walnut Creek Building support and friendship for women new to the area. Are you looking for a way to make new friends, participate in fun activities and get acquainted with Walnut Creek and the Bay Area? Newcomers' Club of Walnut Creek provides this and more. We meet the needs of our active and growing membership. We meet for a welcome coffee the second Wed. of each month. For more information contact: Mindy Carson at 279-2295, Carroll Brooks at 935-7887, or after September 1, Membership Chairperson Vinita Ramsay at 465-4961. SEPT. 13, OCT. 11 Clayton Valley Garden Club 7 p.m. The Clayton Garden Club meets the second Wed.of the month. This month the meeting is at the Arundell residence, 121 Samuel Court, 6732043. Every meeting has an informative program concerning some aspect of gardening. Hands-on meeting. Get your hands dirty making a hypertufa garden trough. This molded concrete container can be made in almost any shape using common objects as the mold. Join jus for a creative Evening. Anyone interested in gardening is welcome at our meetings, Call Jeff at 672-7579 or Barry at 827-9540 for information. SEPT. 14, 21, 28 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau 10 a.m.and 5:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in and meeting on Thurs.. 800-326-8450 x 2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. SEPT. 14, 21, 28 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thurs. for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker. www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.

SEPT. 21, OCT. 19 Veterans of Foreign Wars Meeting @ Veterans Memorial Hall, Concord 6:30 - 7 p.m. is get acquainted time, 7 p.m. meeting. VFW meets the third Thurs. of the month. All Veterans of foreign wars are invited to attend. The VFW is here to support eligible Veterans and their families. Wives and daughters of eligible Veterans are invited to join the Ladies Auxiliary. Meetings are held at Veterans Memorial Hall, corner of Colfax and Willow Pass Road, Concord. (925) 255-3449. SEPT. 21, OCT. 26 CBCA (Clayton Business & Community Association) Meeting @ Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting, last non-holiday Thurs. of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon prior, 672-2272. John Rubiales, President. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. SEPT. 21 After Hours Business Mixer at ECC Bank 5:30 p.m. Concord Chamber of Commerce Mixer, ECC BAnk, 901 Sunvalley Blvd., #100, Concord. SEPT. 27, OCT. 25 Blue Star Mom Meeting in Concord 6:30 p.m. Small group Blue Star Mom meetings held the 4th Wednesday of each month. Blue Star Moms is a support and service group for those serving in all branches of the Armed Forces. 1792 Elmhurst Lane, Concord. Call 676-3654 for information. SEPT. 30 AAUW Membership Luncheon and Fashion Show @ Concord Methodist Church 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Complimentary salad luncheon and fashion show sponsored by J Jill's store of Walnut Creek. This event will be an opportunity for prospective members, or anyone interested in learning more about the Clayton AAUW, to meet active members and learn about several interesting activities which will be included in the 2006-2007 programs. All graduates of two or four year colleges are warmly invited to attend this event. For all questions or to RSVP, please call Mary Ann Hayes: 925 672-4391 or Sheila Driscoll: 925 672-7947. Concord Methodist Church, 1645 West Street. Concord.

BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT SEPT. 12, 19, 26 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tues. mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. SEPT. 12, 26 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd and 4th Tues. of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. SEPT. 14 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thurs. of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail, Clayton. SEPT. 19 Clayton City Council Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City Council meets on the first and third Tues. 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 SEPT. 7, OCT. 5 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Clayton Valley High School Library 7 p.m. Come to the first CVHS PFC meeting of the school year. Meet the Principal, Gary Swanson, and learn more about CVHS. If you have a topic you would like to see on the agenda, please contact President Melinda Moore at 672-0930 or e-mail melindammoore@yahoo.com. Clayton Valley High School, 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. SEPT. 19, OCT. 17 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Mt. Diablo Elementary 7p.m. in the library. Make a difference in your child's education. Childcare is provided. PFC meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month, except December. 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. Watch website for details. http://www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/mountdiabloelementary/. SEPT. 12 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Diablo View Middle School 9 a.m. Meeting to be held in the Community Room next to the gym. All parents welcome. Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane, Clayton.

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SEPT. 8, 9, 10 Free E-Waste Recycling @ Diablo Valley College, Pleasant Hill Fri. 12 - 5 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Don’t miss this opportunity for free disposal of TVs monitors, computers, mice, keyboards, scanners, digital cameras, printers, pagers, VCRs, telephones, cables, speakers, toner cartridges, copies and fax machines. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill.

SEPT. 19 Women in Business Networking Group @ Heald College, Concord 11:45 a.m. Concord Chamber of Commerce, $20 for members, $30 for non-members. Catered lunch from Panera Bread. Register at www.concordchamber.com. Heald College and Conference Center, 5130 Commercial Circle, Concord.

THROUGH SEPT. 30 Clayton's Classic Cars Display @ Clayton Historical Museum Wednesdays 2 - 4 p.m. and 6 - 8 p.m. and Sundays 2 - 4 p.m. Photographs and memorabilia of old Clayton cars or cars belonging to current Clayton residents are on display. Many old license plates are shown. Clayton Historical Society Museum, 6101 Main Street, Clayton, 672-0240.

SEPT. 16 Why on Earth do we study Mars @ SF War Memorial, Herbst Theatre 1 p.m. Find out by attending a seminar given by two world-renowned geologists from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Free. Suggested donation $10. Don't miss this informative Seminar. Sponsored by Clayton's VFW Post 1525. Call (925) 255-3449, or (925) 628-9508. All donations will assist the Veterans of Foreign Wars in its continuing mission to support needy veterans and their families. San Francisco War Memorial, Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Ave., S.F.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Dining Around For some truly out of the ordinary Mexican food, think outside the taco and head down Clayton Road to LOS CHIVOS at the corner of Bailey and Clayton Road. Here you will find such hard to find delectables as Carne con Nopales. Nopales are prickly pear cactus pads—and delicious…not something you’ll find at your local fast food stop or drive thru. Owner, Gonzalo Barajas, wants everything he serves to be fresh, perfectly cooked and authentic. Take his Chicken Mole, for instance. “It’s real

dients. Her menu is also “vegetarian and vegan friendly.” All subs are oven baked and all Paninis are grilled. For the meat lover in you try the Tri-Tip House Special—oven roasted trip tip served au-jus with provolone for $5.99. If you’re super hungry, size up to $7.99. And the list goes on…Chipotle Cheese Steak, Chicken Parmigiano, The Blue – oven roasted or smoked turkey breast, ham, bacon, avocado all topped with a blue cheese dressing. Or, how about a turkey breast with cranberry sauce and cream

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

MARY’S PIZZA SHACK serves up a delicious array of their legendary pizza and Italian dishes with both a luncheon and dinner menu. mole,” says Barajas. Some people consider mole, a flavorful blend of chili powder, nuts and (believe it or not) chocolate, to be the national dish of Mexico. The menu is extensive. You’ll find several choices of tacos, tortas, quesadillas, burritos and tostadas along with nearly a dozen seafood choices. But, save room for dessert. You’ll want to top off your meal with a smooth flan or Arroz de leche (Mexican rice pudding flavored with cinnamon and raisins) or one of several other choices. Barajas, together with his father and brothers, own and operate at two locations—Los Chivos #1, opened seven years ago, and Los Chivos #2 which opened on Clayton Road last year. This is a bright, comfortable, “make yourself at home” place to eat. Or, order ahead for take out. Prices range from $1.25 for a taco to $7.95 and $8.95 for a complete meal with rice and beans. Located at 4787 A Clayton Road, Los Chivos is open Mon.Fri. from 9:30 a.m. (stop by for a breakfast burrito) until 8:30 p.m., and Sun. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone 680-0914. This is not your kid’s sub, and there’s nothing ordinary about the gourmet sandwiches served up at the new GOURMET SUBS AND MORE. Owner, Sadie Rangel, had something special in mind when she opened her new sub shop next to the Shell station at Clayton Road and Ygnacio. First, the menu – you’ll find no less than 25 different sandwiches, served either “sub style” or “Panini” style and all calling for nothing but the freshest ingre-

cheese. Panini lovers can have their sandwich with garlic, Cesar or ranch spread or basil, black olive and sun dried tomato pesto…all homemade. If you’re watching your carbs, dig into one of Sadie’s garden fresh salads. Try an Oriental Chicken Salad of grilled chicken breast with an Oriental dressing or an All American Albacore Tuna salad. All dressings are homemade. At this end of Clayton Road’s “fast food row,” this family owned and operated eatery is a welcome respite from MSG and deep fried “stuff.” Priced from $1.99 for a cup of homemade soup to $7.99 for the biggest Tri Tip Special, Gourmet Subs is as good for your wallet as it is for your health. Located at 5415 Clayton Road at the corner of Clayton Road and Ygnacio, Gourmet Subs is open Mon.-Sat. from 10:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Closed on Sunday. If you want a special place for

lunch or dinner, you might want to stop by PASTA PRIMAVERA at the corner of Clayton Road and Treat Blvd. in Concord. The dining room is charming with dark cherry wood chairs and tables and mirrored back wall. The menu is sure to please the most discriminating palate from the ardent pasta lover to the fresh fish and salad lovers. The Linguine with garlic and mushrooms in virgin olive oil will arrive at your table piping hot and smelling absolutely delicious and is sure to become the personal favorite of many. The cream of broccoli soup has a perfect texture and flavor that will live long in your memory. Another favorite is the seafood salad featuring shrimp and scallops on a bed of spinach in a warm lemon Dijon sun-dried tomato dressing. Prices are very reasonable which make Pasta Primavera a perfect choice for any occasion. Don’t be mislead by the name of this delightful family restaurant just over the hill in in the Citrus Marketplace. MARY’S PIZZA SHACK is definitely NOT a shack, and you can find a lot more on the menu than just pizza--although the pizza is a fine choice, indeed. Mary’s Pizza Shack serves up a delicious array of their legendary pizza and Italian dishes with both a luncheon and dinner menu. Mary’s loves families so bring the kids. Pizzas range from $7 for a small Napoletana to $20.50 for the large Mary’s Combination. A pasta lunch will run you $7.25-$9.25; dinner $10.75-$13.25. This Sunday, treat yourself to brunch at LA VERANDA CAFE. This all inclusive Sunday Champagne Brunch will tempt you with some old favorites including a unique take on the old tried and true Joe’s Special-a scrumptious mix of sausage, spinach and eggs. And the Eggs Benedict will delight with its smooth and satiny Hollandaise. But there will be a few surprises, as well. Look for a light and luscious Chicken Piccata, chicken breast sauteed in white wine with lemon and capers or a gentle salmon with a light cream sauce. Salads will include fresh fruit and the personal favorite of many La Veranda fans, the

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

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Banquet Rooms Patio Dining

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12 Flat Screens, 16 Draft Beers,

Team Parties

Watch all the games 8-10 out of market major league baseball games per night

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

Insalata Della Reina...baby greens with walnuts and gorgonzola tossed with balsamic vinegar and olive oil And those Sunday breakfast traditionalists will still be able to order eggs, omelets and buttermilk pancakes from the menu. All this is offered at $18 per person, $9 for children 6-12 and free for children under 6. Price includes champagne or sparkling cider, choice of fresh fruit juice, dessert and coffee. Brunch is served from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. La Veranda is open daily for lunch and dinner and 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. For reservations for brunch, lunch or dinner, call 524-0011. 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. ROCCO’S NEW And, SPORTS BAR is now open. With a full bar, 12 big flat screen TVs and LIVE MUSIC, sports fans might just think they’ve found heaven. And for those who need a little break from sports, check out the beautiful new fresh water aquarium behind the bar. See you at Rocco’s.

September 8, 2006

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September 8, 2006

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B7

Sharks in our waters aren’t necessarily a bad thing “His entire form is fluid, w eaving from side to side; his head moves slowly from left to right, right to left, timed to the rh ythm of his motion through the w ater. Only the ey e is fixed, focused on me , circling within the orbit of the head, in order not to lose sight for a fraction of a second of his pr ey or , perhaps , of his enemy.” – Philippe Cousteau The R ed T riangle stretc hes along the Califor nia coast for some 120 miles . Starting just south of Monterey, it surrounds, embraces and spills past San F rancisco and the Golden Gate Bridg e, the F arallon Islands, Stinson Beac h, Point Reyes and Bodega Head. It is one of three areas on earth spor ting the highest concentrations of great white sharks and where 45 percent of all recorded attac ks occur . The

other tw o areas are the w aters around South Africa and those around par t of the A ustralian coast. At least since a girl’ s final, blood-curdling cr y of “Shark!” in the opening scene from “Jaws” in the 1970s , much of the w orld has been both fascinated with and deathly afraid of sharks. Since that time , sharks from all the world’s oceans have been ruthlessly hunted and killed in the name of making us safer . Today, many k ey shark species are threatened with near extinction. Several factors pla y into this threat to sharks. Most sharks are stingy reproducers and produce only a small n umber of young per year . In addition to the hunting of sharks for spor t or safety concer ns, sharks are hunted for their fins (to supply

the ravenous and lucrative Asian shark-fin soup business). Simultaneously, they are impacted b y pollution and oceanwarming factors. They are being hit from all sides at once . You might w onder wh y w e should care about preser ving sharks, or if we would be better off without them. The necessarily short answer is that top predators k eep our ecological systems in needed balance . They enhance biological di versity and keep habitats healthy and working. When we screw around with the natural balance , we deg rade the system. Such is the case for woodland systems , which are being o ver-run and in some cases destro yed b y plant-eating deer, whose population g rows unchecked. That is because their natural balancing predator , the wolf, is no long er a vailable to

cull their population numbers. Therefore, if there w ere no sharks in our oceans , it w ould mean disr uption and neg ative alteration of our coastal and oceanic marine food w ebs. This disruption, in turn, would negatively influence our climate. In short, we need the sharks for our own survival. The saddest par t of all of this is that w e really shouldn ’t fear sharks any more than w e fear dogs. We are not the natural prey of sharks. Most shark attacks are a case of mistaken identity, because surfers on a board, viewed from belo w, resemble seals and sea lions , favored prey of great whites . This often occurs occur in murky w ater where visibility is low and is fur ther stimulated by the presence of fish guts (e .g. from spear fishing) or other blood products introduced due

to human carelessness or design. There are many factors that contribute to the suppor t of a large population of great white sharks in our R ed T riangle coastal waters. The most significant is the extremely high n umber of marine mammals (seals , sea lions , whales and dolphins) we have here. They are here because of the large and health y fish populations. Those fish populations result from health y sea weed (macro-algae), phytoplankton (micro algae plant-like cells) and zooplankton (small micro-animal) populations. The seaweeds and ph ytoplankton result from the rich nutrients in our w aters, which are present because of the lifting of nutrient-rich deeper w aters to the surface b y our winds and ocean circulation. Rich ph ytoplankton life pro-

Why Myspace is the hottest place in cyberspace At a recent meeting at m y church, a guest speak er asked a group of parishioners if they had ev er visited Myspace .com or viewed their c hild’s Myspace page. Not a single hand w as raised. It seems odd that not a single person had been to Myspace. The ubiquitous social netw orking site recently became the most visited site in the United States, surpassing Y ahoo and Google. It ev en g ained the attention of Rupert Murdoc h’s News Cor p., which bought the site for $580 million a year ag o. With more than 100 million members, Myspace is enshrined in popular culture . But many people are m ystified as to wh y Myspace is so popular and if it is even safe. The media has published stories critical of the site . A

MARK FREEMAN

THE

NET

recent extreme case dealt with a 16-year-old girl f lying to J ordan to meet a man she met on Myspace. But rarely are there stories about how the site works or what the typical user thinks of Myspace. A typical Myspace pag e will have a user’ s photo and an “About Me” section. People can choose to upload more photos

Reem mood deelliinngg R Deecckkss D Ovveerrhhaannggss O Wiinnd doow wss//D Doooorrss W wnn M Moolld diinngg CCrroow diinngg SSiid m TTrriim

and list g eneral interests . Users can add “friends” (other Myspacers) to their pag e with a simple click. Since the process is so easy , people can ha ve hundreds of digital pals . Christina Dolce , a 24-year-old cosmetologist who writes under the name “Forbidden,” has more than 1 million friends . Her site has nearly 400,000 comments from admirers. Dolce isn ’t alone in using Myspace to expand her popularity. Budding directors and musicians post their w ork on Myspace, as w ell as big-name artists lik e Christina Aguilera and local rapper E-40. Most people use Myspace for connecting with others . Nikki, 18, likes the site because it allo ws her to comm unicate with “people whom I usually would not call on a regular basis or hang out with on the w eekends.” She typically logs on once a day to talk to friends. A search tool allows users to find other people on the site .

This makes it remarkably easy to find old friends . Miles, 18, explains that Myspace is useful because he lik es to “k eep in touch with people I rarely see in person, because of distance or otherwise.” Francesca, 14, adds that on Myspace it’s so easy to “find old friends and make new ones.” For many, these simple features account for the site’ s popularity. As Stefanie , 18, notes: “Some people g et a kic k out of adding as many friends to their list, be it strang ers or acquaintances.” Nikki believ es Myspace is popular because “people are nosy and lik e to see what is going on with other people’ s lives.” Myspace is the perfect way to satisfy a “high sc hooler’s love of eavesdropping.” Arneliza, 31, thinks Myspace relies on a g ood adv ertising strategy. The site uses a “really good viral marketing campaign” that creates “an ev eryone’s doing it mentality .” Thus, she argues, Myspace is successful

because it’s trendy. But trends wear off. Stefanie and Nikki, both longtime Myspace users, say that they will not use the site as often in college. They prefer F acebook, a networking site for colleg e students. Stefanie explains that people often g et “carried away” modifying their Myspace pag e, something that doesn ’t happen with the more aesthetic Facebook. Yet Facebook has only 8 million users – hardly a threat to Myspace’s dominance . Myspace’s contin ued popularity depends on whether the site can maintain user interest, or be swept away by another trend that capitalizes on tec hnology and teen social lives. Mark Freeman recently graduated fr om De La Salle High School and will be attending St. Mar y’s College of California in the Fall. He plans to study Economics and write for the school paper . Questions/comments can be sent to mfreeman543@gmail.com

Crossword Puzzle

General Contractor license# 783799, B, HIC

ECOFOCUS duces rich zooplankton life. Together, all these factors create one of the ric hest habitats for marine life on ear th. This is one of California’s great natural blessings. Of the 200-plus species of sharks that exist on ear th, less than 10 could be considered man-eaters. And, as noted above, most of those attacks are mistakes – and rarely are fatal. Despite ha ving 45 percent of the world’s great white attacks in the R ed T riangle, California averages only one attack per year and one fatality per decade . Hardly statistics pointing to a mindless, indiscriminate peoplekiller. The tig er and bull sharks actually should be feared more than the great whites. Bull sharks move into freshwater systems at will and pose a m uch g reater danger to the unsuspecting. When a person, seal, sea lion or whale is attac ked, the g reat white g enerally ambushes from below and behind, bites, then backs away. This cowardly move protects the shark from unnecessary har m that might be inflicted b y its prey . After the attack, it backs off to wait as the prey bleeds to death, after which it finishes the deed. This tactic lik ely is the reason that many attac k victims survive the encounter . Of course, given the size and strength of the fish, the first bite often causes m uch har m – even if the shark realizes that a human is not its prey and subsequently abandons the hunt. It m ust be remembered, however, that for the c hance victim, statistics matter little. Gerard M. Capriulo , Ph.D., is the F letcher J ones Pr ofessor of Biology and Envir onmental Science at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga. 66- Partly melted snow 67- Ireland 68- Capital of Switzerland 69- Nevertheless 70- Venture

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Solution for 8/18 Crossword

ACROSS

1- Golfer's "watch out!" 5- Drunkard 8- Word of comparison 12- Large wading bird 13- Giver 15- Helper 16- Bits of thread 17- Rate 18- Nicholas II was the last Russian one 19- Very large city

22- In favor of 23- Apex 24- Molten rock 26- Emitting odor 29- Vocal organ of birds 31- Wood sorrel 32- Molars, e.g. 34- Like Wrigley Field's walls 36- Very small quantity 38- Fortune-telling cards 40- First-class 41- Nearby

43- Thick sweet liquid 45- High hit 46- Shove 48- Boring tool 50- Dissolve 51- New Zealand parrot 52- Mineral spring 54- Depressed 61- Canoeing body 63- Heaps 64- Capital of Italy 65- Sheltered, nautically

1- Thin layer 2- Off-Broadway theater award 3- Circular band 4- Fancy home 5- Work up lather 6- Not fooled by 7- Labor 8- Tasteless items, junk 9- Island in the West Indies 10- 6th month of the Jewish religious calendar 11- Roman emperor 13- Bit of liquid 14- Turbulent 20- Rhythmic swing 21- Delhi wrap 25- Exclamation of acclaim 26- Go swiftly 27- Person who arranges marriages 28- Brewer's need 29- Curt 30- Chemically inactive gas 31- Black gold! 33- Attempt, a score in rugby 35- Society girl 37- Swiss river 39- Pertaining to Turkey 42- Soothe 44- Look 47- Halts 49- Twinned 52- Thick slice 53- Not bright 55- Crafty 56- Swerve sharply 57- Nuisance 58- When said three times, a 1970 war movie 59- Chieftain, usually in Africa 60- Sandy tract 62- Still, in poetry

Page B8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 8, 2006

Lee Harvell Classic a smashing success Lee Har vell w as kno wn for being a friendly soul who lo ved his family, his music, and his hot rods. Lee’s orang e 1934 F ord was the winner of the Jan. 2005 San Francisco Rod, Custom and Motorcycle Sho w and w ent on to win the “Most Eleg ant” award at the Marc h 2005 Blackies’ Fresno Autorama. Last year, Lee helped Crossroads Covenant Churc h org anize its first car sho w, which attracted more than 300 people. Lee passed away earlier this summer after a battle with cancer, and the church renamed the event “The Lee Harvell Classic” in his honor . “Lee w as a g reat, generous, thoughtful man,” says Pastor Aaron Gonzenbach. This year’s event was held on Aug. 19 with 90 cars , and about 600 people attending . Gonzenbach says, “This show is

Photo courtesy of Crossroads Covenant Church

The Lee Harvell Classic drew more than 600 people.

unique. Where else can you sit in a Winston Cup race car , see a dragster, antique cars , hot rods , motorcycles, let the kids pla y, and g et a free dinner?” Individuals and businesses con-

tributed money to fund the free barbecue as w ell as tee shir ts commemorating the sho w. Art Himsl, the famous artist, designer and builder , brought his oneof-a-kind 1937 Himsl Ze ppelin

Roadliner. Arlen Ness , renowned motorcycle customizer, lent his 1951 Vincent Blac k Shadow, as w ell as his personal favorite “Half & Half.” Among the 90 other beautiful v ehicles was an original 1965 A C Cobra 427 roadster . Don McDo well, friend of Lee Harvell and member of Crossroads Co venant Church, had the fun task of figuring out ho w to fit all the motorcycles, hot rods and classic cars in the c hurch parking lot. “Next year , we ma y ha ve more cars than our lot can handle .” To lear n more about ho w you can par ticipate in the sho w next year, or if you’d like to find out infor mation about Crossroads ministries and events, call the c hurch staff at 925-798-5905 or contact them by email at crossroadsco v@ sbcglobal.net.

New Choral Director at CV Presb yterian

CHRISTIAN EMIGH

Christian Emigh has been appointed Choral Director at Clayton V alley Presb yterian Church in Clayton. Emigh is already kno wn b y many as Director of Choirs and Department Chair for the Performing Ar ts at Concord High Sc hool where his c hoirs have tak en top honors in festivals in Ha waii, Seattle, Vancouver, New Y ork and Washington DC . During his four year ten ure, CHS c hoirs have also been featured in per-

Church News

BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON The Baha’is of Clayton is extending an in vitation to a talk and ev ening of fellowship. The subject of the talk is the message and messeng er of God - Baha’i promise of unity in c haos. The speaker is Mr. Dennis Pettyjohn. He holds a B .A. degree in Theology, and a M.A. degree in Church Administration. He w as a Baptist minister/pastor for about 10 years in Califor nia and Arizona. He lives with his wife in San Mateo County. The prog ram star ts at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 8 at the Toloui residence in Cla yton, with a period of interfaith devotions, followed by Mr . Pettyjohn’s presentation. For more information and directions call (925) 672-6686. Everybody is welcome. CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH Finding W holeness in a Broken World. If you have ever been hur t, lied to , betrayed or abused, then you know what it’ s like to li ve in a brok en w orld. The problem is that most of us accept this defeated existence as the “nor m,” never believing w e can find hope for a better life . Joseph’s stor y is one w e can all relate to, betrayed by those he was closest to , a victim of his brother’s jealousies , Joseph’s life shows that y ou can o vercome difficult circumstances when you receive what y ou don ’t deser ve. Joseph not only o vercame his tragedies, but he went on to help millions of others o vercome their adversities as well. Join us as w e begin this new message series Sept. 10. We meet every Sun. at Diablo View Middle at 9:00 and 10:45am.

CONCORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Beginning Se pt. 10 Concord United Methodist Churc h will hold Sunda y mor ning suppor t groups. The first Sun. of each month the subject will be Parenting and /or Grand parenting, the second Sun. the subject will be A J ourney through Grief and Loss , the third Sun. will be Finding F reedom from Addictions, and the four th Sun. of each month the subject will be Children of Aging Parents.

A new Choir , Drama, Arts and Crafts and R ecreation program beginning W ed. Sept. 13. The prog ram is for ag es 3 – Kindergarten, from 4:30 – 6 p.m., and for 1st – 6th g raders from 3:30 – 6 p.m. $1 each week for dinner. Registration is $30 for the year . For more infor mation call Marilyn at 925-685-5260.

SUNDAY SCHOOL FALL KICKOFF AT ETERNAL LIFE Eternal Life Lutheran Church will host a Sun. school fall kickoff Sept. 10 to begin the new year of Bible study . The theme of the da y will be taste and see that the Lord is good and will include Sun. school orientation, a Word of God Fair, and a light lunch. Sunday sc hool is held for children ages 3 and up from 10 11 a.m. Each session includes a Bible stor y, activities and tak ehome materials. It is an opportunity for children to g row in their young faith and knowledge about the Savior. For adults Sun. Bible study (10 - 11a.m.) is also an opportunity to g row in faith and knowledge of Christ in an informal setting, with opportunities to ask questions , share concer ns

formances for the San Francisco Giants , the Golden State W arriors, the Oakland Holiday P arade and KFR C radio. Emigh brings a w ealth of choral experience to the job. He has ser ved on the m usic faculty at Mt. Saint Mar y’s Colleg e, Diablo V alley Colleg e and the Conservatory of Fine Ar ts for Gifted and T alented Students within the Los Ang eles Unified School District. He is cur rently a member of the San Francisco

Symphony Chor us and has appeared in collaboration with the Los Ang eles Chamber Orchestra, the Long Beac h Camerata Sing ers, and the Leipzig Baroque Ensemble. He received his Bac helor of Music degree in vocal studies at California State Uni versity, Sacramento, and Master of Arts degrees in Ger man Literature and Musicolog y from the University of Southern California.

and apply God’ s word to ev eryday issues . Bible study is also held on W ed. evenings at 7:15 p.m. A study of Revelation will begin on W ed. Sept. 13. Please call 524-0295 for infor mation about any of the studies. Eternal Life’ s regular sc hedule is Sunda y sc hool and Bible study at 10 a.m., worship at 11:15 a.m. Eternal Life Lutheran Church is located at 5554 Clayton Rd., Suite 1B (the F arm Bureau building), in Concord. Eternal Life is a member congregation of the WELS. Please call 524-0295, or visit the c hurch website at www .EternalLifeLutheranChurch.org for more information.

posted in Social Hall and indicate if you w ould care to contribute your fa vorite salad or desser t. This will enable us to plan the menu more accurately . Invite a friend and plan y our g aming strategy together. For more info, please call the office at 686-2000.

HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH Bingo Game Day at Church. Join the Nifty Fifty Seniors of Holy Cross Lutheran Church on T ues. Sept. 19 at 11:30 a.m. in the Social Hall. Prizes will be a warded to the winners. You might be the recipient of the “Spoils of Bongo.” Lunch will be served prior to the game, including Togo sandwiches, and a v ariety of salads, and desserts. Please sign up on sheet

ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY Grief Workshop. The death of a loved one is unlike any other loss. Whether the death was sudden and tragic, or one with warning and preparation, the reality of death leaves most of us shocked, confused and sad. These feelings may ling er for years . Grieving people need time and space to honor their g rief. Your loss ma y be recent or it ma y be years ag o. Dandy Neg rete and Alan Gaber and a team of peer ministers will facilitate a six w eek workshop to help y ou begin the healing process. The workshop will be Oct. 12 – Nov. 16, 7:30 – 9 p.m. in the St. Bonaventure Chapel. Please call 672-5800 to register or Candy Negrete at 672-2324 to obtain additional info . Registration is required by Sept. 26.

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September 8, 2006

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page B9

Clayton Dog Park has new agility course Professional pet grooming salon for dogs and cats Self-service pet wash available

Tues - Sat, 8-5 Experienced staff with more than 20 years of service

est. 1978

Adjacent to Hollywood Video

925-676-9355 4375 Clayton Rd. Unit K Concord owner & Clayton resident Grace Carson & her dog, Blue

Clayton resident, Mike Rose, has been in business for over 34 years and has always provided quality repair with excellent customer service!

SEVEN LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! 2140 North Broadway Walnut Creek (925) 210-1739 2260 Via De Mercados Concord (925) 689-1739

Mike’s Brentwood Autobody 4535 O’Hara Avenue Brentwood (925) 634-6366 2288 North Main Walnut Creek (925) 979-1739 2001 Fremont Street Concord (925) 686-1739

1610 West 10th Street Antioch (925) 778-1330

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Clayton dog lo vers once again rolled up their sleeves and braved the summer heat to spruce up the city’ s dog park. According to Cla yton K-9 Coalition secretar y Linda Pinder, about ten people with rakes and sho vels recently took down the c hip pile in less than two hours with plenty of time left over for the canine crew to frolic in the wading pool. A new addition to the dog park is an agility course donated by T roy Lee of Camp F our Paws. The course will be set up

every Sunda y mor ning from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Pinder urges everyone who has a high energy four-legged friend to tr y out the equipment which will be available on a trial basis. The landscape w ork and the agility course are all part of the K9 Coalition ’s effor ts to maintain and impro ve conditions of the dog park. The Clayton Dog Park is located on Marsh Creek R oad across from Diablo View Middle School. For more infor mation about the park or future ev ents, call 672-7815 or 672-9710.

THE CLAYTON DOG PARK has a new agility course every Sunday morning from 8:30 to 10 a.m. on a trial basis thanks to the generous donation of Troy Lee from Camp Four Paws.

Common foods can be toxic to your pets Grapes, onions and bread dough are deadly to your cats and dogs. The metabolism of these species, especially the cat, differs from ours – making seemingly harmless foods dangerous Grapes and raisins ha ve recently been found to cause acute renal failure (ARF) in some dogs. This toxicity has not been reported in cats. Not every dog will react, but we have no way to predict which dogs will. The har mful amount can be as little as 10 to 15 grapes for a small breed dog suc h as a dachshund. Signs generally develop within the first 24 hours after ing estion. There will be v omiting, lethargy, loss of appetite and sometimes diarrhea. A diagnosis is made with a histor y of ingestion and/or finding g rapes or swollen raisins in the vomitus. Within three to fi ve da ys, symptoms of kidney disease may develop. As kidney damage

progresses, there is loss of ability to concentrate urine . Your dog will star t urinating more often in larg er v olumes (olig-

MARYBETH RYMER,

PAWS

AND

DVM

CLAWS

uria.) T his can quic kly prog ress to kidney shutdown or anuria. Twenty percent of the affected dogs will develop weakness and stumbling (ataxia). Dogs that dev elop all signs are 12 to 18 percent less lik ely to survive. If you ha ve fed y our dog

grapes and are concer ned, see your veterinarian immediately. A blood panel will deter mine if there is acute renal disease and the level of severity. Elevated calcium lev els and kidney v alues of blood urea nitrogen (B UN) and creatinine will be found if there is a to xic reaction. One possible mec hanism of the to xicity is calcium dysregulation, with the high calcium damaging the kidneys . Therapy includes intra venous fluids, diuretics if in renal failure and injections to control v omiting. Kidney values also are monitored. About 53 percent of the dogs sur vive intensi ve f luid therapy, with complete recovery in 60 percent of these survivors. The rest will ha ve life-long kidney damage. Onions are to xic to both dogs and cats, but cats are much more sensiti ve. The acti ve oil, allyl propyl disulfide , in onions

Copper and Nerkle ar e ARF’s adoption stars

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COPPER

COPPER Two-year-old Copper lo ves to play and be petted, although she appreciates a calm and quiet approach to life. She likes to meet new people , and does well with other cats. The adoption fee for Copper is $100. NERKLE One-year-old Nerkle is an exuberant fellow who is alw ays on the g o. He will thri ve in an active home with plenty of

NERKLE

mental and ph ysical stim ulation. Adopters should ha ve prior experience li ving with Dachshunds.. The adoption fee for Nerkle is $200 and includes the first six training courses. Bring everyone who will li ve with Copper or Nerkle – including any canine family members – to meet them at Tony La Russa’s Animal R escue F oundation, 2890 Mitc hell Dri ve, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 3

to 7 p .m. Thursday and F riday, Noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Visit www.arf.net or call (925) 256-1ARF for more information. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that sa ves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can y ou share y our talents to connect people and animals? ARF v olunteers are making a difference! F or more infor mation see our W eb site , www.arf.net, or call (925) 2561ARF.

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becomes an o xidizing ag ent – destroying red blood cells (hemolysis.) Garlic also can be to xic to red blood cells with long-ter m use. And it ma y cause contact dermatitis and immediate asthmatic attacks. Toxic signs are secondar y to anemia, which include pale gums, weakness, fast hear t rate, vomiting, diarrhea and bloody urine. There is no antidote . Supportive treatment includes intravenous f luid therapy and possible blood transfusions. Renal damag e ma y result from the hemoglobin released from the r uptured red blood cells. Here ag ain, renal v alues should be monitored. Meanwhile, raw bread dough made with yeast has both mechanical and bioc hemical threats. The stomach provides a moist, warm en vironment for the dough to expand and it distends the stomac h. Severe distention can compromise breathing as well as blood circulation inducing shock. Even worse is the release of alcohol from the yeast fer mentation, creating neurologic depression and death. Early signs include dr y heaves, abdominal distension and de pression, progressing to stumbling, disorientation, coma, hypothermia and death. Attempts to remo ve the dough will include inducing v omiting and f lushing out the stomac h with g astric la vage. The last resort is surg ery to remo ve dough. Alcohol intoxication is treated with intra venous f luids and supportive care. In all of these to xicities, contact y our v eterinarian as soon as you are aware there has been ingestion. If caught within a couple hours, vomiting can be induced with an intra venous injection of apomorphine. The sooner the better , so less is absorbed. If symptoms are present, your pet will require hospitalization and intensive care for up to several days. My best advice is to k eep bread dough away from pets and c heck all food labels for onion and g arlic. If you ha ve been feeding g rapes or raisins to your dog without illness, it is most lik ely safe to contin ue. Otherwise, it is best not to start. An ex cellent resource in a toxic ingestion emergency is the ASPCA Poison Control Center, which is a vailable 24/7 at 1888-426-4435. For more information, visit www.aspca.org. Marybeth Rymer, DVM, can be reached at Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital, Concord. 672-1100.

CORRECTION

In last issue’s story on Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital, we incorrectly stated that Dr . Marybeth R ymer w as the owner of the hospital. Dr. Rymer is the Medical Director. Veterinary Centers of America (VCA) owns the hospital.

Page B10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 8, 2006

LINDA WYNER

FOOD

FOR

THOUGHT

“The true Southern watermelon is a boon apart, and not to be mentioned with commoner things . It is chief of this world’s luxuries, king by the grace of God over all the fruits of the earth. When one has tasted it, he knows what the angels eat. It w as not a Southern watermelon that Eve took; we know it because she r epented.” – Mark Twain What’s summer without watermelon? It’ s red (most of the time), crunchy, melt-in-yourmouth, drip-down-your-chin, hand-held fun. The w atermelon originated in Africa where, in the mid-19th century, missionary and explorer Da vid Li vingstone found vines g rowing wild in the Kalahari deser t. At 92 percent water, it is a g reat source of water for desert travelers. The Egyptians were cultivating watermelon more than 5,000 years ago, and the Greeks incorporated it into their cuisine about 2,500 years ag o. By the 10th centur y, China was cultivating the fruit and it is the w orld’s larg est producer of watermelons toda y. It came to North America with European colonists and African sla ves. During the Civil War, it is reputed that the Confederate Ar my boiled do wn w atermelons to distill sugar and molasses. The Russians ha ve an interesting use: They make beer out of watermelon juice. Watermelon (Citr ullus lanatus) is actually a vegetable, related to the cucumber and g ourd.

But this is one of those times when I’m g oing to ignore the facts and call it a fr uit anyway. It’s the third most popular fruit in America (w e consume something on the order of 3 billion pounds each year) and there are more than 1,200 v arieties grown around the w orld. Although w e mostly eat the flesh, every par t of the w atermelon is edible. Red w atermelon is one of the best sources of lycopene (even more so than tomatoes), an important antioxidant. For some par ticularly arcane competition trivia, it seems that one bra ve soul manag ed to eat 11½ pounds of watermelon in 15 min utes and another managed 66 feet, 11 inches in a seedspitting contest. The w orld record w atermelon w eighed in at 255 pounds. And let me put to rest one worry: Eating the seeds does not cause a watermelon to grow in y our stomac h or out y our ears. In local stores , you can g enerally find one of four commercial v arieties – the picnic , icebox, seedless and yello w. The so-called seedless v ariety w as developed in J apan and actually contains small, undeveloped seeds. Domestically, watermelon is g rown in 44 states , with California, Arizona, Florida, Texas and Georgia the leading

producers. To test for ripeness , slap a watermelon. If you g et a highpitched tone , it’s under ripe. A dull or dead sound means it’ s overripe. You’re listening for a deep-pitched tone . The fr uit should be fir m and symmetrical and nice and hea vy. The skin should be g reen with a cream y yellow spot where the melon sat on the g round, ripening in the sun. Sliced, spooned out into little rounds or just eaten out of hand, watermelon’s a fa vorite. But you can also cook with it. I suggest a soup and pic kles for something different.

1-inch piece of peeled ginger 1 Tbsp. whole allspice 1 tsp. whole cloves Trim outer g reen skin from rind, cut into 2-inc h b y 1-inc h strips to measure out 8 cups . Prepare limew ater b y adding 2 Tbsp. pickling lime to every four cups of water. Make enough solution to co ver the rind in a

non-reactive (not metal) bowl. Soak for 8 hours or overnight. Rinse well to remo ve all lime and pat dr y. Combine vineg ar, sugar, lemon and spices in non-reactive sauce pan and bring to a boil. Simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Strain. Return syr up to the pan,

reheat and add pre pared rind. Cook o ver medium high heat until rind is translucent and syrup is thic k. Put rind and enough syrup to cover into quart canning jars and process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. These can be shelf-stored for up to a year if properly processed. Note: Pickling lime is found in most g rocery stores . It contains alum that helps k eep the pickles crisp . Do not use lime purchased from non-food stores as it may contain lead. Watermelon pic kles mak e a nice condiment in Asian-inspired cuisine. Simply chop up the pickles and ser ve alongside ging ersauced chicken or beef. Linda W yner is an attor ney in Walnut Cr eek by day , and an accomplished chef and “foodie” by choice. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com

CHILLED WATERMELON SOUP 6 cups cubed watermelon 1 lime, juiced 1 Tbsp. powdered sugar Dash salt Place ing redients in blender and puree until smooth. Chill and serve in small bowls. For a pretty presentation, garnish with pomegranate seeds and orang e or g rapefruit segments. SWEET WATERMELON PICKLES 8 c watermelon rind Pickling lime (see note) 4 c white vinegar 5 c granulated sugar ½ lemon, sliced 1 cinnamon stick, broken

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