SEP 23 Clayton Pioneer 2005 by Pioneer Publishers

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IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

925.672.0500

Fallen firefighters honored on 9/11 GREGG MANNING

MAYOR’S CORNER Mayor urges YES vote on Landscape Measure M This November, Clayton voters will be asked to make a very important decision—to renew the Landscape Maintenance District. The renewal will be on the ballot as Measure M- as in Maintenance. The election process is well underway. Arguments for and against the Measure as well as rebuttals to those arguments have been written. The pro and con arguments will be contained in the voter packet you will receive in early October. It has been a long process to this point. For more than eighteen months a Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee appointed by the City Council studied the issue. They studied the current maintenance procedures, looked into how the current funding was achieved and then developed standards. They then held a number of community outreach events with presentations to civic groups, surveys at the Fourth of July parade, Oktoberfest, the Art and Wine Festival and at the Clayton Cleans Up days. The citizen input they received was integrated into the standards and a final report was presented to the city council. After receiving the committee’s final report and holding a public hearing on the matter, the city council voted to put the renewal of the Landscape Maintenance District on the November ballot for a decision by you, the voters. This renewal appears on the ballot as Measure M. Having completed the mission, The Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee disbanded. A group

See Mayor, page A6

What’s inside SECTION A Around Town . . . . . . . . . .A2 Just My Opinion . . . . . . . . .A4 Classifieds and Directory of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . .A5 Upcoming Events . . . . . . .A7 School News . . . . . . . . . . . .A9 Financial Sense . . . . . . . . .A11 Club News . . . . . . . . . . . .A12 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . .A13 Tech Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . .A13 Garden Girl . . . . . . . . . . .A14 SECTION B Hiker’s Haven . . . . . . . . . . .B1 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B2 Dining Around . . . . . . . . . .B4 Police Blotter . . . . . . . . . . .B5 Community Calendar . . . . .B6 Church News . . . . . . . . . . .B7 Pet Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B8 Old Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B9 Food For Thought . . . . . .B10

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

ABOVE: CAPT. DAVE GEORGE, CCC FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, Station 11, explains the history of the tolling of the bell honoring a passing comrade. Left: Many visitors to Station 11 took time to stop and read the brief histories of the 343 firefighters that perished in the World Trade Center attacks four years ago. JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Four years have passed since the devastating terrorist attack on the World Trade Center and still they came. Last Sunday nearly 100 residents of Clayton and the surrounding area came to Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, Station 11 on Center Street in Clayton to pay their respects and remember the heroes of 911 who gave their life to save others. Some slowly walked through the sea of 343 American flags, each bearing a photograph of a firefighter killed in action and a brief biography. Others stood in silence taking in the somber memorial in front of the fire station, while a few residents

talked softly about why they came and where they were when the attacks took place. Darcie Lankford of Concord said she came to remember a friend from high school who became a firefighter and lost his life that day. Michelle Lang cried as she knelt down next to a flag and said, “it’s important that people don’t forget.” Clayton resident Petie Snow pointed out the rose plant that she donated to Station 11, explaining that it was a special hybrid to honor the firefighters and blooms a brilliant red. This year’s Master of Ceremonies was Channel Seven News Anchor and former Clayton

See 9/11, page A6

Big changes planned for CSUEB TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer

Dean of Concord campus wants to change the paradigm The Concord campus of the California State University, East Bay (formerly CSU Hayward) has some big changes in mindand not just in name only. Hidden behind the hills and up a long driveway from Ygnacio Valley Road, the campus has remained quite possibly one of the area’s best-kept secrets for years—a secret that is no longer safe. Plans are in the works that will soon significantly increase the campus’ influence in the community along with the size of its student body. Currently, the campus is

operated as a satellite of the CSU Hayward campus “mother ship.” The Concord campus has no resident faculty; the instructors are all dispatched from Hayward. The library contains reference material only. Students can order library books from Hayward and pick them up the next day. And state regulations restrict the branch campus class offerings to upper division and graduate level. Historically, the long term plan for a branch campus is to grow the student body to 3,000 or more, then, assuming a demonstrated continued demand for the programs, petition the state to become a separate campus. However, this vastly increases the cost of operation, says Peter Wilson, dean of the Concord campus. It is the old paradigm that Wilson proposes to change. If

he has his way, the Concord campus of CSUEB will soon mature into a true “co-located” campus, utilizing much of the infrastructure of the Hayward campus, but having its own resident faculty and four-year

degree programs. Wilson sees the student body expanding to 6,000 or more. Historically, enrollment on the Concord campus has

See CSUEB page A8

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

CSUEB Concord campus Dean Peter Wilson

Pioneer to host Measure M forum On November 8, Clayton voters will be asked to renew the city’s Landscape Maintenance District. In preparation for the election, the Clayton Pioneer will host two public forums on Measure M; the first on Monday October 24 and again on Thursday, October 27, both beginning at 7 p.m. in the Clayton Library Community Room. Members of the city council, the original Blue Ribbon Committee and the Measure M political action committee will be on hand to answer questions and address citizen concerns. The renewal is a crucial issue for Clayton residents. The current District, which is set to expire in 2007, does not provide adequate funding for even routine maintenance, says Dan Richardson who chaired the Blue Ribbon Committee. The proposed bill, Measure M, provides for the renewal of the District, funds for maintenance of a city park, general landscape maintenance and completion of $2.5 million in deferred maintenance and capital improvement projects. “But most importantly,” says Richardson, “Measure M sets up a Citizens Oversight Commission to monitor the landscape maintenance budget.”

Page A2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

Around Town Stephen Cuff visits city council for citizenship badge

STEPHEN CUFF AND MAYOR GREGG MANNING

Stephen Cuff is well on his way to earning his Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge. One of the requirements is to attend a city council meeting and Stephen did just that on Sept. 6. Stephen is a member of Boy Scout Troop 484, and in just a year and a half he has achieved four ranks. He is a seventh grader at Diablo View Middle School and lives in Clayton with his parents Sharon and Paul and his brother Kevin who is a member of Cub Scout Pack 444.

Fleming Court celebrates holiday with block party Residents of Fleming Court in Clayton know how to celebrate a safe holiday weekend. Reinstituting a tradition held for many years, the residents held their annual block party on Sun., Sept. 4 with two original owners on the court and six new residents who have moved in over the years. Also invited were residents across from the court on Fleming Drive who moved to

Clayton just a few months ago. Friends and family members were also extended an invitation and the total amounted to over fifty people at the event. In addition to a great barbecue, the children were treated to games, a huge piñata filled with candy, a Disney inflatable jump and a surprise visit by Clayton firemen and their truck. New friendships were

formed and plans are already being made for next year’s event. Another positive outcome was an emergency roster compiled for everyone in attendance.

New chief sworn in

Clayton Bocce teams celebrate end of season with pizza party

CINDY HAYDON

What to do at the end of a hard season of bocce ball? Why, head for Skipolini’s to chow down on pizza and tell bocce stories for an hour or two. As the ’04-’05 season drew to a close for the Clayton Bocce Federation, team members and fans turned out by the dozens to celebrate a season well played. Eight teams are in the running for the season championship. Results were not available at press time but you can find the standings going into the playoffs in this issue’s sports section. Winning teams will be in the Oct. 7 issue.

THE DOWNTOWN BOCCE TEAM PUMPS UP WITH PIZZA at the season’s end party. Front to back: left side Cecelia Hartley, Jerry Kosel, Gail Fitzgerald; right side Ed Hartley, Gloria Kosel and Don Fitzgerald.

LOU AND CATHIE GERNHARDT

Sandy Lawrence pins the chief ’s badge on her husband, Dan Lawrence. The new chief was sworn in at the city council meeting Sept. 6. FLEMING COURT

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September 23, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A3

Around Town Claytonians care for Katrina victims in many ways

DIAMOND TERRACE RESIDENTS PITCH IN (from left) Nadine Macstay, Wilma Stone, Wells Fargo Branch Manager Steve Holland and Ray Kenney.

THEY DOUBLED THEIR MONEY Diamond Terrace residents got into the giving spirit for victims of Katrina and raised $1,100. When they took their donation to Wells Fargo Bank at Oak Grove Plaza in Concord, branch manager Steve Holland told the seniors that his branch would match their monies for a grand total of $2,200. LEMONADE STANDS RAISE OVER $400 FOR VICTIMS On Sun., Sept. 4, Jessica Anderson and Tristin McHugh

decided to raise funds for the Katrina Hurricane victims by having a lemon-aid stand. They set up on the corner of Center St. and Marsh Creek Rd. and sold their refreshments for about four hours. Lemonade sales and donations totalled $347. The donations will go to the Red Cross and Salvation Army. Jessica and Tristin would like to thank everyone who donated money at their stand. Instead of spending Labor Day lounging around the house watching TV or IM’ing friends

Jessica Brook, Keely and Teagan Vasilakis and Jack and Thomas Brook raised $86.70 for Katrina victims.

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on the computer, Jessica, Jack and Thomas Brook and Keely and Teagan Vasilakis decided to do something constructive with their day, and more importantly to do something for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Armed with several bags of lemons, chocolate chips, a food mixer and juicer, the kids set about making jugs of lemonade and batches of cookies. Loaded down with their supplies of refreshments, our band of fundraisers set off for Oakhurst golf course where they set about selling their goodies. After a couple of hours of brisk business and dozens of satisfied customers the lemonade gang raised $86.70 for the American Red Cross. GETTING SOAKED FOR KATRINA Six days after the hurricane hit the Gulf Coast, St. John’s Episcopal Parish in Clayton once again enacted part of its own mission statement, “caring for the needs of others.” A youth car wash, along with a special collection during the Labor Day weekend raised over $2,850. Funds raised were sent to Episcopal Relief and

Youth from St. Johns Parish, along with a special Labor Day collection, raised $2,850.

Development, a major relief agency, as well as to Noah’s Wish.org, to help animal victims of the hurricane disaster.

Jessica Anderson and Tristin McHugh raised $347 for victims.

Ethan Roderick joins Cline family

Ethan Roderick Cline added a little more testosterone to the Cline family when he arrived on July 20 weighing in at 6 lbs. 7oz. and 18.5 inches tall. Ethan is the son of Clayton residents Casey and Natalie and brother of big sister, four-year old, Camille. Baby Ethan’s grandparents are Anita and Rick Hind of Clayton and Lanai Cline of Concord.

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Front row: Twins Andres and Mateo Sanchez, Kristen and Karly Beitch, Giselle and Alexandra Keppel, Grace and Sean Tehaney; Back row: Elizabeth and Madeline Annison, and triplets Colin, Sarah and John Cook. Not pictured Makenzie and Anna Prushak.

Let’s face it. Kindergarten teachers have a rough job, especially at the beginning of the school year. They have to calm the fears of all the little ones entrusted in their care, wipe away the tears, give lots of hugs, help develop friendships and offer a curriculum that eases the transition from home to school. At Mt. Diablo Elementary School, kindergarten teachers were thrown an interesting curve, six sets of twins and one set of triplets brought their identical smiles, sibling symmetry and endless energy to the kindergarten class of 2005-06. That’s right, six pairs and one threesome (two boys and a girl) all at the same place. Parents helped by dressing their pairs and threesome in slightly different attire. Other parents asked that their twins attend different classes. We all felt a little ragged after orchestrating the group photo of all the siblings. And that was only a 30-minute venture with four adults helping. We shot over two dozen photos and no two were the same. Lots of giggling,

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moving, making faces, poking each other and even engaging in random hugs. These adorable look-a-likes made us laugh ‘till we cried. We can’t imagine the joy they’ll bring to their classmates and teachers this coming year.

Pete Peterson gets his day

MAYOR GREGG MANNING AND PETE PETERSON

Retiring police chief Pete Peterson was honored for his seven years of service to the city with a proclamation declaring September 7, 2005 as “Peter A. Peterson Day.”

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Neighbor is dog tired of chasing loose dogs Dear Judith, My neighbor’s dogs are allowed to run loose quite a bit during the week. I am always shooing them off my property, and telling them to go home. Many times I have grabbed a collar and taken one or both to their door. I don’t even get a ‘sorry’. I am getting tired of doing this. I could call animal control, as there are laws about dogs running loose, but I’m just trying to be a good neighbor. Is there something else you can suggest? Thanks, L. Duncan Dear L Duncan, I have been guilty many times, over the course of my dog’s 12 years, of having a dog at large, and having to go to animal control to pick her up. You have been very patient with your neighbor’s furry friends. Right away, I would approach him with your concern for his animal’s safety, and safety of anyone else on the street. Do the dog’s have an up-to-date rabies tag? Is there a need for a dog walker or sitter during the day? Is there a problem with a fence or gate? He may get defensive, but at least you have covered all your concerns with regards to his animals. If nothing changes, you can continue to be the Good Samaritan, or report the dogs to the authorities. Dear Judith, I am a high school senior this year, and have my first serious boy friend. He is an awesome guy and treats me like a princess. My problem is my friends. They aren’t happy

JUDITH HALL

JUST

MY OPINION

for me, and have nothing nice to say about me, since Luke and I started going out. Their biggest complaint is the fact I don’t have time for them anymore, and that I’m going to get hurt. I am hurt by their comments. I feel guilty for being happy. Can you suggest something here, so I don’t lose my friends. Thank you, Ava Dear Ava, First love, such a special time. Enjoy it, but don’t forget to spend

time with your friends as well. You don’t need to be spending all your waking moments, joined at the hip, with this knight in shining armor. Your friends have a touch of jealousy, which hurts a person’s ego big time. They are feeling replaced, so are lashing out with mean-spirited comments. Try to make them understand you haven’t abandoned your friendship with them, you have just added a bonus to your own. I’m sure your sweetheart will understand if you need to be with your friends some night, instead of being with him. Hope things will smooth out for you soon. Judith Hall, married and the mother of three teenagers, has been a Clayton resident for 12 years. She has been involved in many aspects of the Clayton community, is ready with a helping hand, and always willing to listen with an open heart. Email your problem or second opinion to opinion@claytonpioneer.com.

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September 23, 2005

Letters to the Editor ground squirrels: was it poisoning the animals and if so how was that program being carried out? That was nearly a month ago and I have yet to receive an answer. Perhaps the Pioneer can find out details To be honest, I would object to poisoning the squirrels. I know WE think of THEM as destructive, since by nature, they dig holes and chew on things. That is what rodents do to survive. On the other hand/paw, they might think WE are destructive, by paving over their system of tunnels and homes and taking out the things they need for food. I find it “beneficial” to watch the squirrels. It’s fun to chase each other around, run

How is the city dealing with the ground squirrels? I read with interest the Mayor’s Column (in the August 9th issue of the Clayton Pioneer) about the ground squirrels. Mr. Manning states they are “not beneficial to the city” and then says the city is “dealing with the issue annually”. I noticed in the mayor’s article, he says anyone with comments could contact him through the city’s Website. So, I decided to do just that. On the website it says most emails are answered within a day. I asked just HOW the city was “dealing with” the

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into a tunnel, and then pop up in another hole in the ground or just sunning themselves on a warm summer day. But those opportunities are disappearing. The squirrels have been removed from “The Grove”, the empty lot next to the Clayton Community Church and the hillside near Mt. Diablo Elementary School, among other locations. One of the things I enjoy about living in Clayton is its rural feeling. That includes the deer, raccoons, possums and yes, the ground squirrels that live here too. But now it feels like Clayton wants to pretend to be rural, but actually only wants “civilized” animals that can be trained to behave in a way humans endorse. Thank you, Autumn Allison Clayton resident

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

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Dishwasher for local tearoom from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Must be over 18, quick, but careful with china. $8/hr. Contact pammbarnett@aol.com or call between 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. only, 6728327. Food prep for local tearoom. Must be over 18, efficient, w/eye for detail. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tues. through Sat. $11/hr. Contact pammbarnett@aol.com or call between 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. only, 6728327.

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A Clayton resident to chair Hospice of Contra Costa’s Clayton Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Oak Tree in Clayton Station by Safeway. The date of the tree lighting is November 2005. Chairing the event requires minimal time. If interested please contact Cyndie Harrison at charrison@hospicecc.org.

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

TAMARA S TEINER , Editor J ILL B EDECARRÉ , Assistant Editor and Display Advertising

Oakhurst Country Club. Two banquet captains, two part time morning and evening restaurant servers, two morning and evening banquet servers, one bartender, one morning fitness employee, and one full time landscaper/maintenance worker. Flexible hours and golf privileges. Fax resume to (925) 672-0148, or e-mail gm@oakhurstcc.com or apply in person at 1001 Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton.

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PIONEER INFO

Directory of Advertisers

HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517 or call the office with your credit card information. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance.

Abbey Carpets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-9901 Aircloud Wireless Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-4119 Alise Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7701 All Loving Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0752 American Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .939-4800 Apronstrings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-7621 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .726-0154 Bay Arts Custom Children's Murals . . . . . . . . . . . .323-9323 Benton, Mureleen - American Express . . . . . . . . . .685-4523 Burkin Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1519 Contra Costa Musical Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .943-7469 CTA Crossroads Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-0597 Café Santee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429-3320 Candy Created Bouquets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6818 CD Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0900 Central Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-2222 Clayton Fitness and Tanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2010 Clayton Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4664 Clayton Home Inspection Services . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9405 Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631 Clayton Valley Frameworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6066 Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4848 Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5198 Clayton Valley Villa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8401 Clip n' Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-9355 Computers USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 ComUnity Lending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5363 Concord Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9530 Crocker Insurance Agency - Sam Totah . . . . . . . . .941-1536 Cruise Adventures Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-7447 Diablo Car Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .691-4529 Diamond Terrace Senior Retirement Living . . . . . .524-5100 Dryclean USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5653 Eagles Peak Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .465-0435 Elysium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1333 Englund's Tea Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8327 Flannery, Patty - Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0541 French, Lynne - Coldwell Banker Real Estate . . . .672-8787 Great Start Home Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .681-1008 Help You Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .680-4950 Hobson's Digital Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-0726 Home Equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-9737 Hudak, Jim - Pianist and Composer . . . . . . . . . . . .673-7293 Instant Imprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-9815 Integrity Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-493-5437x402 Joanna's Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-8911 La Veranda Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0011 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . . . . .939-7920 Law Office of Richard Littorno . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6463 Lerner Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-1130 Mary's Pizza Shack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .938-4800 Maverick's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602-5600 Mazzei Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .757-5600 Mike's Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-1739 Merrigan, Deanna - Mt. Diablo Realty . . . . . . . . . .673-9990 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-1100 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 Morgan, Yvonne - Security Pacific Real Estate . . .974-7675 Morningside Horse Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-3632 Morucci, Kim - Intero Real Estate Services . . . . . .280-8563 Mountain Mike's Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4965 NBS Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-1845 Neptune Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-5100 Northgate Gardening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944-8711 Northshore Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .439-3333 Oakhurst County Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Pasos de Mt. Diablo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-4467 Pavilion Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6868 Pro-Tech Heating and Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . .673-3776 R&M Pool, Patio & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0207 Residential Pacific Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Roberta Claire Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .625-1123 Robin's Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .947-6105 Smith Bernal Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-6461 Dr. Steven Moon, Chiropractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-8400 St. John's Episcopal Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-8855 Stone Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-2094 Straight Line Imports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-9801 The James Gang . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .974-7678 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243 The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Truesdell, Lisa - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . . . .686-4747 Van-Fleet-Bronson, Intero Real Estate Services . .672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance . . . . . . . .672-2300 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . . . . .672-4433 Weekends at the Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0744 We The People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246-0370 Williams, Mike - Rath Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260-5363 Zandonella's Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432-1700

LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com

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Page A6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

9/11, from page A1

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

Capt. Dave George, CCFPD Assistant Chief Richard Grace, CCFPD Chief Keith Richter and Mayor Gregg Manning reflect on the firefighters lost on 9/11.

Mayor, from page A1 of concerned citizens formed a “Yes on Measure M” committee to promote the well thought out recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Committee. I have written in the past about the recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Committee. As we move closer to the election you will be seeing detailed presentations of those recommendations. For now I would just reiterate some some of those. As far as I am concerned, the best of the Committee’s recommendations is the establishment of a Citizens Oversight Commission to oversee the annual Landscape Maintenance budget. This group of independent citizens will establish the capital projects and set the collection rate in future years at a level that will insure that only needed increases are implemented. They will set the budget for the district and recommend its passage by the City Council.

Another recommendation is a list of needed capital improvements to the district. These are in every area of the City. A lack of capital funds has prevented completion of these projects. Measure M calls for a funding mechanism such as a bond, which will have a life, limited to the specified projects. The Committee recommendations also include updating the antiquated irrigation system, greater weed abatement and rodent control and weekend operation of the fountain. Measure M will also provide for maintenance funding for the long delayed downtown city park. The annual cost to owners of Clayton property for the renewed Landscape Maintenance District will be a dollar a day. This will provide for all of the recommended changes to the District. Without renewal, the current district will sunset.

resident, Dan Ashley. Ashley told the crowd that, although he really wasn’t a superstitious man, the night before the attack he was feeling very uneasy. “I tossed and I turned until I got a call from my coanchor Jessica Aguirre who was crying. She said ‘they’re gone’,” referring to the two towers, which had collapsed. “It was hard to go to work that day,” Ashley recalled. “I’ll never forget the emotions of that time.” Mayor Gregg Manning said that he asked the city to turn on the fountain at Oakhurst for the ceremony because “water is a symbol of life.” “This is a day we should and continue to remember,” he said. The memorial service

With the sunset there will be no funds to preserve the current landscaping. We all know the current fiscal situation in California. The state pushes costs to the counties and the counties push costs to the cities and the cities-especially the small cities with a limited tax base-do not have the funds for anything but the bare essentials. Failure to renew the

September 23, 2005

included the raising of an American flag that flew over the World Trace Center during the recovery effort. The flag was at half-mast in honor of Justice Rehnquist who died Sept. 2. Undoubtedly the most poignant memory of the early morning service was the ringing of the bell, which, as Station 11 Captain Dave George explained, is “steeped in tradition.” Throughout history a bell was rung at the start of each day, a second bell summoned firefighters to a fire and a third bell signified the completion of the call to serve. At the end of Sunday’s service the bell tolled for a passing comrade; three rings, three times.

Landscape Maintenance District will be detrimental to the current landscaping and property values. Passage of Measure M will benefit the city landscaping and our property values. Only you can pass Measure M in November by participating in the governmental process and voting favorably. You will soon be getting more information on Measure M. Read it, talk about it and vote favorably.

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September 23, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A7

Upcoming Events Our Oktoberfest adds carnival to this year’s fun family Concord/Clayton will take good care of your family Independently owned and operated

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Come one, come all to the carnival at Oktoberfest. That’s right, you can ride the Merry-Go-Round or get tossed and turned on the popular Tilt-A-Whirl. There will a total of nine rides to please all ages. The Carnival opens Friday, Sept. 30 from 5 to 10 p.m. and continues throughout the weekend during Oktoberfest hours. Ride tickets are now available at a great price…$10 for a book of 25 and you can purchase them at The Dog in Clayton Station, Aladino’s pizza, Skipolini’s, Ed’s Mudville Grill and Rodies. The savings by purchasing in advance is a big one. On the day of the event, tickets will cost $15 for a book of 20. So Oktoberfest organizers urge everyone to buy in advance. Oktoberfest, sponsored by the Clayton Business and Community Association, opens Sat. Oct. 1 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun. Oct. 2 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event, now in its second year features “The Internationals” who will play non-stop from 1 p.m. each day. There will also be plenty of German-style food and imported German beer. Kids will enjoy Kinderland and a Rootbiergarten. Don’t miss the parade on Saturday at 1 p.m. and “tapping of the keg” by Mayor Gregg Manning. Admission and parking at Oktoberfest is free.

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Tammy Cerruti’s Regency Woods kitchen is one of six kitchens that will be on the Clayton Valley Kitchen Tour on Sat. Oct. 8. “Our Tour will offer a combination of new and remodeled kitchens in the Clayton Valley area,” said Event Chair Jeanne Groschwitz of the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club, the tour’s sponsor. “This is a great opportunity for people to see different styles of appliances, cabinets and countertops in a home setting. Each homeowner has a unique decorating style and I think everyone will come away from the tour with ideas for their own home.” This year’s tour is expected to draw more than 350 people and proceeds benefit local charities and scholarships, explains Groschwitz. This self-driving tour is one day only and will start at the Clayton City Hall Courtyard in Clayton where guests can pick up brochures and maps to the kitchens. Check-in is from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and the homes close at 4 p.m. Tour goers will also be able to purchase fall related craft items made by the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club Crafts Group. Think Pink Breast Cancer Awareness T-shirts, a club service project, will be available along with information about Clayton Valley Woman’s Club, a non-profit service organization founded in 1973. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. For information or to purchase tickets please call 672-2471.

925-672-4333 www.callthevanfleetteam.com Featured Properties FABULOUS COURT LOCATION! Darling, home in Concord with beautiful refinished hardwood floors, fresh paint in and out. Spacious front and back yards with deck, patio and swimming pool. Located on approximately .25 ACRE Lot.

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BETTER THAN NEW! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, garage has partial conversion made into room and loft. Seller has had tons of upgrades done this special home. Remodeled kitchen with new counter tops, cabinets, dishwasher and range/over, new light fixtures and doors. Freshly painted inside and out. Beautiful pool and deck, low maintenance yards.

City needs help for New Year’s Eve Planning is underway for the City of Clayton’s Third Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration. The party will run from 6:30 p.m. to midnight, Dec. 31 at the Clayton Community Gym, Diablo View Middle School. Free scheduled events include food (hamburgers, hotdogs, chips, drinks, etc.), door prizes, a crazy hat contest, capture the flag, gym

games (pillow polo, soccer, volleyball, basketball), family movies, a bounce house, board games, flash light tag and much, much more. This is a big party (last year approximately 1,500 people attended) and requires five to ten people to help with planing, 10–15 to help set up on Sat, 25–30 people to help the night of the event, and 10–15 people to help clean up Sun.

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Page A8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

CSUEB, from page A1

Road is virtually a parking lot.” Despite these impediments to growth, however, Wilson sees increased at a snail’s pace, partly have a branch campus offering a bright future for the campus. Plans to add a four-year because the school is restricted lower division courses and proto offering upper division and grams in a remote area when nursing program are currently in graduate school courses only. there was one, maybe two com- the works. According to Wilson, When the branch campus was munity colleges that were strug- the nursing program on the first established in 1981 in gling to survive themselves and Hayward campus is very small Pleasant Hill, then moved to its probably didn’t need the com- and doesn’t have the room to expand. And the local community colleges, which offer two-year nursing programs, can’t handle the demand for nursing classes now. “So, by offering lower division classes in nursing, we could take students all the way through their four years. They would start here as freshmen and finish their Bachelor’s and Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer RN at the THE CAMPUS UNION sits at the center of the CSUEB Concord campus same time. And, we wouldn’t be hurting the commupresent location in 1972, it was petition.” at a time when the Diablo Valley Access and visibility have nity colleges in any way.” was considered the hinterlands also contributed to the campus’ Assuming negotiations with the and Diablo Valley College was slow growth. “The worst spot Community College District are in the process of planning for for a CSU campus” is how successful, the nursing program branches in Brentwood and San Wilson describes the Ygnacio could begin as early as next year. Wilson’s plans to “change Ramon–also considered to be Valley location. pretty remote areas. “State universities only have the paradigm” aren’t limited to “When (these branches) about 10 percent of their stu- the academic arena. The campus were first authorized, I’m sure dent body on campus at any spreads over about 386 acres, of the thinking was that these cam- given time, he explained. “We’re which only about 20 are curpuses will be in areas where commuter institutions and dur- rently utilized. Wilson hopes to there aren’t a lot of people,” ing our busiest times— four, “partner” with businesses in the Wilson explained. “So, it’s logi- five, six in the evening and the area to bring commercial vencal that you wouldn’t want to early morning— Ygnacio Valley tures, mainly retail stores, to the

campus that would generate revenue for the college. This is not a new idea, he says. “The Northridge campus has quite a bit of retail and Fullerton has a Marriott on the property.” Wilson sees technology playing a key role in expansion plans. “It’s clear to me,” said Wilson, “that it (the Concord campus) has been underutilized. The days are long past where you have to put all your educational programs in one location. Why don’t we put the university programs into the population centers and then use telecommunications to give students access to them?” He can see a day when the university establishes desktop videoconferencing with the community colleges so that “our counselors will be able to talk directly with their counselors and students – office to office, so to speak.” Before coming to the Concord campus, Wilson was dean of the Palm Desert campus of CSU San Bernardino where he grew the student body from 400 to 1200 in a few short years. “When I went down there,” he said, “we had three marginal buildings on a community college campus. When I left in 2003, we had 200 acres that the city had committed to us, we had built one new building and moved in, broken ground on the second one and were raising money for the third.” Does he hold the same vision for Concord? “With the University willing to invest in resources, I think it will make a big difference,” he said. “I think we can change the paradigm.” For more information on the Concord campus, visit their Web site at www..ccc.csuhayward.edu

September 23, 2005

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The holidays will soon be upon us . . . as will the relatives. Redo the dining room drapes and table runners. Reupholster the old sofa with fabulous new fabric to look like new! Your family will be impressed with all of your “new” looks.

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CCWD offers bus tour of district facilities in October The Contra Costa Water District has a program that allows customers to tour its facilities four times a year, twice in the fall and twice in the spring. The bus tours are educational outings that include visits to a water treatment plant, an intake facility, the Los Vaqueros Reservoir and watershed. CCWD is now taking signups for the two Fall tours. CCWD customers over the age of 18 are invited to sign up for this tour of District facilities to learn about water quality issues and how CCWD diverts water from the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta, stores it in the Los Vaqueros Reservoir, and conveys it in the Contra

Costa Canal to a treatment plant in the service area. A 24-passenger bus tour will be offered Fri., Oct. 14. The tours depart from the Concord District Center,

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kins in every size and Th p m u color ousan ds of magical p S in a jar” WEEKLY CONTEST number of lima beans e th ss ue “G 9 . t c O . n u Sat. Oct. 1 - S pumpkin” “Guess the weight of a 6 1 . t c O . n u S 0 1 mpkin” . t c Mon. O number of seeds in a pu e th ss ue “G 3 2 . t c O . r of corn” n u Mon. Oct. 17 - S of corn kernels on an ea r be m nu e th ss ue “G 1 3 ct. Mon. Oct. 24 - Mon. O ©2005 Harvest Magic, Inc.

1060 Pine Lane, Clayton, CA 94517

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Buy One Ride, Get One Free* On our popular "trackless" train *Train operates weekdays 3pm - dusk & weekends 9am - dusk Limit one per household. Valid with coupon thru Oct. 31, 2005.

Come and view the magnificent Oregon's Noble Vintage™ Designer Christmas Tree on display this October at the farm. Pre-order and reserve a 6' to 9' tree with a $20 deposit. We are proud to be the only Certified Oregon's Noble Vintage Tree Distributor in Northern California.

September 23, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

New year, new rules at CVHS

Patty Flannery

It’s a new year at Clayton Valley, and with this new year comes new changes. John Neary, who served as principal of CV since 1998, retired last year, leaving open a job that was filled by Gary Swanson. The Pioneer ran a profile last issue, and I look forward to seeing how he runs CV. A new principal, however, will not be the only changes at CV. A sundry collection of new rules was passed and will be implemented this year, and many old rules will now be more strictly enforced. Here are some of the changes. Food will be forbidden in classrooms. Although I will miss this privilege dearly, I can understand why we must relinquish it. Last year, CV had a horrid rat problem, and probably still does. If not eating in class will mean there won’t be rat droppings on the floor of my history classroom, then so be it. It’s a price I’m willing to pay. Cell phones and personal

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CVHS REPORTER music players will also be restricted to within students’ backpacks this coming year. Any student seen using one of the aforementioned devices during class will have it taken away. Now, I can understand this rule, provided there is a teaching lesson occurring. Then, yes, cell phones and CD players should be put away. However, I don’t see how listening to the White Stripes on your iPod while text messaging your friends is any worse than

MT. DIABLO ELEMENTARY Gift wrap fundraiser will be Oct. 3-17. On-line ordering will be available. Contact Lisa Delmar at thedelmars@yahoo.com for additional information. Oct. 7 is the date for the Ice Cream Social in the Multi Use Room, 5- p.m. Bring the whole family and enjoy. For tickets contact Lisa York at 673-7242 or lisayork@sbcglobal.net. A very limited number of tickets will be available at the door so pre-order your tickets today.

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watching a movie like My Fair Lady that a teacher or a substitute teacher put on. Leaving no room for exceptions seems a bit much. Finally, we come to the dress code. The Mt. Diablo Unified School District changed CV’s dress code, adding provisions forbidding sandals, tank tops with straps thinner than two fingers’ width and shorts and skirts that are shorter than the length of the student’s arm and fingers. The reason? According to the official minutes of the April 12 School Board meeting, Gary Eberhart said that, under the previous dress code, a student can “dress like a hooker.” So thank you, Mr. Eberhart, for saving me from a future of late-night street corners. I think that, without the ban on sandals, I, along with others from CV, would have spent a lifetime of cowering in dark alleys. Just think of all the children showing their...toes. Or maybe it would have been the tank tops. One minute, someone can

see your shoulders, and the next; you’re just like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. Others say that schools need to create a more business-like ambience, complete with business-like attire, to make high school more like the “real world.” Never mind the fact that high school is nothing like the “real world,” because, if it were, the teachers would fire 90 percent of the student body. MDUSD shouldn’t be wasting its time with issues like dress codes. They should be working on…oh, what’s the word...education! Last year, California ranked 48 out of all the states in the RAND Reports annual findings…48. Until that ranking starts going up and all students are actually learning, then the school board, along with other school boards across the state, should not waste their time on petty issues like dress codes. For comments or questions contact Deirdre at CVHS@claytonpioneer.com

School News

7/0

/0 10

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Page A9

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There are hundreds of magazines to choose from. Check your child’s’ backpacks for order forms and information. CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH Back to School Night will Thurs. Sept. 29 starting at 6:45 p.m. in the large gym. Homecoming Parade on Main Street, downtown Clayton is on Oct. 5. Community members, please be sure to renew your free Safeway eScrip donation by linking your Preferred Savings Card to Clayton Valley High School Parent Faculty Club before Nov. 1. Call 1-800-8014973 or click on www.escrip.com.

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Page A10

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

Dr. Moon heals body and mind JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Is it possible to visit your doctor’s office and leave with a new vitality that will help make the world a better place? Dr. Steven Moon tries to make that happen with each of his patients every day that he practices. His Chiropractic office specializing in auto accident injury and family health on Clayton Road in Concord offers patients state-of-the-art technology in combination with a holistic approach to complete care. Now in his twenty third year of Chiropractic in Concord, Dr. Moon is dedicated to treating the whole person. “I love working with people,” he says. A soft spoken man with a warm and caring approach to treating patients with pain, Moon Chiropractic is the only office in the Bay Area to offer the Pro-Adjuster for analysis and treatment using technology developed by NASA. He also works with Non-Invasive Disc Rehabilitation for degenerated discs, headaches, back or neck pain and other conditions. Patients have received excellent results from Dr. Moon’s Digital Motion X-Ray where studies are recorded on video as the patient moves the affected area. Dr. Moon is able to use the moving images for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Physiotherapy is another form of treatment that includes Cold Laser Therapy, Acupressure, Chi Machine, Ultrasound and numerous other painless diagnostic and treatment methods. What is most rewarding for Dr. Moon is when his patients begin to feel better and are able to resume work, take care of

Jill Bedecarré/Clayton Pioneer

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Dr. Moon uses state of the art technology in his Chiropractic practice. their children and enjoy fun activities again. He cites an example of one patient who was in such pain that he told Dr. Moon he might have to give up his career. “After treatment here, he was able to not only keep his business but expand it,” says Dr. Moon. Another patient had problems from the anesthesia during childbirth and suffered from severe headaches and poor muscle tone. After treatment at Dr. Moon’s office, she became headache free and was able to walk without any pain. Dr. Moon has patients of all ages from a three-month old baby who had a traumatic birth to Dr. Moon’s 94-year old grandmother. Along with his multitude of licenses, accreditations and professional associations, Dr. Moon is a contribut-

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September 23, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Adora Lazaro, and her "All Loving Care" services, have enabled us to take a "timeout" and find some time for ourselves. She and her providers have given specialized and caring attention to our disabled son. Adora does indeed, provide "loving care." - Bud and Kim Modersbach Alamo, C A

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Page A11

Women face unique retirement challenges Saving for retirement remains one of the most important financial goals for both men and women. While saving for retirement is a huge endeavor for everyone, women face a variety of unique challenges and obstacles that should be taken into account in their long-term planning. WOMEN LIVE LONGER First of all, and perhaps most importantly, women, on average, live longer then men. Therefore, they will simply need more money during retirement then men. According to a July 2005 report on www.msn.com, women at age 65 are expected to live another 19.5 years, while men are expected to live 16.6 year after age 65. But according to the same MSN report the demographers predict that many women alive today will live into their 90’s. This means many women will need to be prepared financially and emotionally for a retirement lasting, in some cases, over 30 years. FEWER EARNING YEARS Another challenge women face is that they typically have fewer years in the workforce. According to the Social Security Administration, the average man retiring in 2000 had 44 years of working under his belt, however the average woman had only 32. This is because women are more likely than men to take time off

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from work to have and raise children and sometimes interrupt their careers to care for aging parents. Work interruptions have significant financial consequences. For instance, women’s contributions to Social Security cease when unemployed, ultimately reducing the Social Security benefit when they retire. According to the Social Security Administration the average Social Security benefit check for women was $774 per month compared to $1,008 for men.

“Women should actually consider investing more than their male counterparts to account for their longer lifespan and smaller earnings.” Mureleen Benton LOWER EARNINGS Work interruptions can also make it more difficult for women to compete for promotions and salary increases. For that reason, and others, women’s annual salaries are, on average, approximately 75 percent of men’s. Although the wage gap has been decreasing over the last few years, the median income for full-time working women was $30,420 per year in 2004, compared to $40,136 for men, according to the July 2005 MSN report. LESS LIKELY TO SAVE Due to lower earnings and fewer years working, women are less likely to be saving toward their retirement then men. According to the 2005 Retirement Confidence Survey from the Employee Benefit Research Institute, 59 percent of women are currently saving

toward retirement compared to 65 percent of men. The same study shows that only 36 percent of women participate in workplace retirement plans, such as a 401(k)s, as compared to 48 percent of men. MORE CONSERVATIVE Yet another challenge is that women tend to be more conservative investors then men. A 2004 study called the “Financial Gender Gap” found that women have a lower risk tolerance and therefore tend to be more conservative with their investments. Although there is a place for conservative investments in most portfolios, investing too conservatively (across the board) can lead to decreased savings and diminished retirement investments. Here are some financial tips specifically geared towards women to help them better prepare for their retirement: MAKE SAVING A PRIORITY Some women get sidetracked when balancing many financial obligations, caring first for their family, such as their children or aging parents. They should remember to focus on taking care of themselves and not let saving for their own retirement slide. INVEST MORE Women should actually consider investing more than their male counterparts to account for their longer lifespan and smaller earnings. Women must take into consideration both their risk tolerance and time-horizon so they can invest appropriately toward their goals. CONTRIBUTE TO RETIREMENT PLANS If eligible and your employer provides a retirement sav-

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ings plan, such as a 401(k), do not delay signing up. Start as soon as you are eligible and contribute as much as you can, especially if your company has a matching program. You may want to augment your 401(k) savings by contributing to an Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA). An IRA is also a good option if your company does not offer any retirement savings accounts. SAVE, EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT WORKING

If you have taken or are planning to take time off from work to raise kids or care for aging/ill family members, try to continue to save money in your IRA accounts. Married people filing jointly are able to make a deductible IRA contribution based on their earnings. DELAY YOUR RETIREMENT If you are nearing retirement and feel that you are not financially prepared, you may want to consider delaying your retirement. By delaying your retirement, you continue to earn income and postpone taking withdraws from your retirement savings which allows your assets to continue to compound and grow. Delaying will give you more time to save and contribute to your Social Security benefit. In fact, for each year you delay beyond 65 years old, your Social Security benefit will increase 8 percent, according to recent financial report on www.ivillage.com. SEEK HELP Meet with a qualified financial advisor who can help you create a personalized financial plan which includes retirement savings and options designed specifically for your unique needs and challenges.

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This information is provided for informational purposes only. The information is intended to be generic in nature and should not be applied or relied upon in any particular situation without the advice of your tax, legal and/or your financial advisor. The views expressed may not be suitable for every situation. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member NASD, part of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. On or after September 30, 2005, Ameriprise Financial expects to separate from American Express Company. After separation, we will no longer be owned by American Express Company.

Page A12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

Four more people test positive for West Nile Virus in Contra Costa District also reports more birds, a squirrel, horses and chickens As of Sept. 12, The Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District had received confirmation of four more human West Nile virus cases in Contra Costa County. The four new human cases include three men aged 66, 69, and 72, and a woman aged 68. All are from east Contra Costa County. The District is also reporting an additional 15 birds, four squirrels, two horses, and three chickens that have tested positive for West Nile virus. “Our data illustrates we have surpassed our peak in virus activity,” said Deborah Bass, public affairs manager for the District. “Although we are reporting additional human and horse cases, these infections occurred 3-5 weeks ago. Mosquito production is still in full swing and so we all need to remain diligent in our mosquito control efforts”.

To date in Contra Costa County there have been a total of seven human cases, 53 birds, 9 chickens, three mosquito samples, seven horses, and 5 squirrels that have tested positive for West Nile virus. In California, there have been nine West Nile virus-related fatalities and 593 people diagnosed with the disease this year. Most people who are bitten by a mosquito with WNV will not get sick; however, up to 20 percent of the population infected with WNV will get West Nile fever. West Nile fever causes people to experience mild to severe flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body ache and possible paralysis. Less than one percent of infected individuals will require hospitalization. The elderly and those with compromised immune systems are most susceptible to illness and death caused by WNV. Residents are urged to take the following precautions: DEFEND yourself against mosquitoes by using a repellent

Club News KIWANIS CLUB OF WALNUT CREEK The Kiwanis Club of Walnut Creek is holding their first annual benefit concert Oct. 15 from 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. at the Del Valle Theatre in Walnut Creek. The featured bands are Houston Jones, King Brothers and the Fred Zimmerman Trio. Proceeds to benefit We Care Services for Children and Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief. For information call Sam Totah, 925-699-2202. ROTARY CLUB E-WASTE RECYCLING Rotary Club of Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise, in conjunction with Got E-Waste Inc., a State certified EWaste collector and the City of Concord, is sponsoring a hazardous electronic equipment recycling event on Oct. 7–9 at the Chronicle Pavilion in Concord. This event is being billed as the largest E-Waste Recycling event ever held in California, with up to 1,000,000 lbs. expected to be collected. Many E-Waste products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled. Unfortunately, these electronic discards find their way to our land-

fills and destroy our environment with toxic waste and heavy metals. This location will accept computers including monitors and components, keyboards and mouses, printers, fax and copy machines, television sets, toner cartridges, telephone equipment, cellular phones, power supplies, DVD players, laptops, VCR’s and Ipods This event is free to California residents and there is no limit as to how much any person or business can bring. The gates will be open Fri. Oct. 7 from 1-6 p.m. On Oct. 8 and 9, the gates will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Your local waste disposal charges as much as $35 to dis-

with an effective active ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Make sure to follow label directions. DRAIN all sources of standing water that may support mosquito-breeding habitats. Residential sources are the biggest producer of mosquitoes in Contra Costa County. DOOR and window screens should fit tight and be in good repair. This will prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. DO vaccinate your horses. Horses are highly susceptible to West Nile virus - approximately half of the horses that get WNV die or are euthanized. DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outdoors since this is when mosquitoes are most active. DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors and mosquitoes are present. DEAD birds should be reported to 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473). Not all birds

pose of a single item, or if caught you could be fined as much as $25,000 for illegally disposing of toxic materials. For more information on this event please contact Got EWaste Inc. at (510) 351-7511 or christian@gotewaste.com or Clayton Valley /Concord Sunrise Rotary at (925) 6897640 or chuck@rotarycoco.org VFW AUXILIARY Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1525 is considering the formation of an Auxiliary to their Post. Membership in the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States shall be limited to wives, widows, mothers, foster and stepmothers (who have performed the duties of parent) grandmothers, daughters, granddaughters, foster and stepdaughters

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will be picked up and tested, but reporting dead birds provides important information for mosquito control efforts. To learn about possible mosquito spraying in Contra Costa County, visit the district’s Website at www.ccmvcd.dst.ca.us or call (925) 685-9301 for a recorded message. Call the District to report mosquito problems at (925) 685-9301, or visit their office between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to get FREE mosquitofish for ornamental ponds or horse troughs.. For information concerning West Nile virus symptoms, prevention, or testing, please call the Contra Costa Health Services department at (888) 959-9911 or visit their Website at www.ccpublichealth.org. For information concerning West Nile virus and horses, please visit the California Department of Food and Agriculture Animal Health Branch at www.cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/ah/ wnv_info.htm or call them at (916)654-1447.

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(who attained that status prior to age sixteen and for whom the duties of parent were performed) sisters, half sisters, foster and stepsisters of persons who were or are eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. If you are interested, contact Dorothy Fisher (925-6895565) or Pete Loechner (925682-6533 or 925-255-3449) for an application or for further information.

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September 23, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page A13

Weigh risks and rewards of buying

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baths

Jim and Rose have been renting their current home for years. Their accountant recommends that they buy a home because they can use the tax break. The IRS allows homeowners to write off the amount of interest paid on their home mortgage on mortgage amounts up to $1,000,000. Other restrictions apply, but for most homeowners this deduction provides a significant tax savings. Property taxes paid on a primary residence are also tax-deductible. There are other benefits to owning your home: like pride of ownership and the security of knowing that a landlord can’t force you to move at the end of your lease. You can decorate and remodel without having to ask a landlord for permission. Part of each mortgage payment goes to pay back principal. This is the equivalent of an enforced savings plan. And, if prices rise between the time that you buy and sell your home, you earn appreciation. Most people purchase a home using a small amount of their own cash compared to the

amount of money they borrow from a mortgage lender. If the property appreciates in value, you earn appreciation on the entire asset, not just on your down payment. Let’s say you buy a home for $300,000 using 10 percent cash down and a mortgage for 90 percent of the purchase price. If the property appreciates 20 percent during your five years of ownership, your profit when you sell will be $60,000, exclusive of the transaction costs. This amounts to a 200 percent profit on your initial $30,000 investment. Using some one else’s money to purchase an asset is called leverage. Buying real estate using leverage is one way to build wealth. Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that home prices will go up. Historically, home prices have risen over time. But, if you were to buy and sell within a short time frame you could actually lose rather than make money. This is what happened to homeowners across the country who bought at the end of the 1980’s and sold their homes

within the next few years. One couple bought their first home in Oakland in 1990. They put 10 percent down and took out a 90 percent mortgage. Several years later, they were transferred to Washington. Home prices in Oakland had dropped about 20 percent and the real estate market was soft, so the home didn’t sell quickly. When it did sell, the sellers lost their down payment money and more. They had to liquidate savings in order to pay the difference between their remaining mortgage balance and the sale price. Home prices move up and down like stock prices. But, unlike stock prices, the equity in your home is not liquid. If the real estate market is in the doldrums when you need to sell, you may have difficulty selling. To protect yourself against fluctuations in the real estate market, don’t buy unless you plan to keep the property for five to ten years. Jim and Rose are worried about buying now because home prices are high. What if the real estate bubble bursts

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ESTATE

and home prices start declining? Will real estate values drop if the stock market corrects in a downward direction? Will rising interest rates bring home prices down? Jim and Rose probably shouldn’t buy if they have any concerns about their job insecurity or if a transfer is eminent. But, if neither of these issues are a concern, they could end up paying even more if they wait for the market to drop before buying. Reprinted from Feb 2004

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

Dual core computers – alien technology at work? Innovative dual core technologies have been recently released into the marketplace by chipmakers promising faster speed and enhanced file through-put. The new generations of chips are the most advanced central processors (CPU) on earth, representing the brains of a new more futuristic generation of computers. These new chips are, in fact, designed by computers. The design specifications go well beyond the understanding of the original human designers. The classified secrets relating to a remarkable new generation of CPU’s are a result of “stolen, purloined and embezzled alien technology taken from Area 51 in Roswell, Nevada,” according to reputedly reliable sources that are residing near Roswell. Well… Dual core CPU’s are, in fact, just the next generation of processors being offered by Intel and AMD. These chips combine two CPU’s into one package so more work can be done during each “clock cycle” of the system. To get an idea of how a regular single core computer works, think of a person sitting behind a desk. This imaginary person

has storage cabinets next to them. Think of storage cabinets as space on the hard drive. A larger hard drive means more storage space. From the storage space the person sitting at the desk (processor) removes a file, opens, and places it on the desktop, which is a metaphor for RAM. The more RAM you have, the larger a desktop can be

“Multiple processors are the answer to modern computing problems for a number of reasons, but most of them centered on security.” Will Claney and a larger desktop holds more open files. The processor—the person behind the desk—is doing the work on all the open files on the desktop, processing the information in each of the files and making decisions. Using our example, we could place another person behind the desk to be a second file processor. While the first person

(CPU) is busy with a file or two the second person can get busy with files three and four, etc. With multiple files open one will see the benefits of more processors (CPU’s) working on them. Quite simply more work gets done in the same amount of time (clock cycle), using the same resources as one CPU would use. Multiple processors are the answer to modern computing problems for a number of reasons, but most of them center on security. Yes, security. Have you ever noticed your computer slow down when running an antivirus or spyware hunter program? It happens because the CPU is busy running programs to inspect your hard drive. If you attempt to open another program or file, you could be waiting for a long time before the computer responds and gives you the information you requested. While the computer is processing antivirus, AntiSpyware and other malware programs, a single CPU can become overburdened. Once overtaxed the CPU will not have enough processing power to get to the program you’ve chosen to run. The dual core design

Helping Families

changes the dynamics of the way a computer processes files. Rather than slowing down when a third or fourth file is opened and piling the work on one CPU, your computer continues to run at full speed. Putting another CPU to work will increase the through-put, or overall performance of your computer. In this way the files you’ve chosen to run will execute at the same time as the malware programs your computer has chosen to run. This change increases the overall speed of the computer when processing multiple files. Of course there are other reasons for dual core computers, like they’re really, really cool; and they’re made with alien technology. No seriously, they are made with… Well, they really are cool. Uhh, anyone here from Roswell? Will Claney is the owner and operator of Computers USA! in the Clayton Station. Contact him at 925-672-9989.

Call today for a personal tour & complimentary lunch

Serving Clayton has been a family tradition for more than 33 years!

WILL CLANEY TECH TALK

(925) 524-5100

Senior Retirement Living

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“I love the security, the beautiful scenery and the safe walking path around Diamond Terrace. And I didn't think that at my age I'd be making 6401 Center Street Clayton CA 94517 new friendships!” www.diamondterrace.net -- Lorraine Hodge

Page A14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

The dry creek bed garden requires careful planning Part one of two In the next two issues I will write about dry creek bed plants, layering ideas, location and watering suggestions. Combining rocks and

whether the bed is being enjoyed vertically or horizontally determines how the plants should be layered. Hillsides make great dry creek or riverbed sites. Steeply or simply sloped, these sites

Layer plantings for the best effect in the dry creek bed.

plants in a flowing manner creates the dry river or creek bed garden. Sprinkle with high impact plants designed to accessorize the lines defined by the rocks themselves for a truly dramatic garden. This application uses the simple element of the rock as our planting guide. Considering

are mostly enjoyed vertically, therefore the smaller plants should be planted closer to you and the larger plants should be planted more towards the top of the bed placed so that they don’t block the smaller plants with their height. Horizontal creek beds have the taller plantings across the creek and the smaller ones

on your side of the bed. That way, the tall plants do not block the smaller installations. Dry river or creek beds should have a nice balance of plant material. Grasses and grass like plants, staple shrubs, perennials, biennials, ground covers, naturalizing bulbs and ferns, if you have the shade, are all good choices. Using grasses and grass like ornamentals requires care and caution. This is where gardeners are most likely to make a mistake. Most grass like plants are found at nurseries in small containers and their eventual size is often underestimated. Calamagrostis is commonly called reed grass. The feather reed variety can easily reach 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide; the leafy reed grass only reaches 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Both choices have interesting foliage that changes during the fall. Both types also have fancy plumes of pink or golden tan during the summer. When purchased, they both look to be the same size, so research the considered variety so you don’t plant the wrong grass in the wrong place. Deschampsia is another selection that may be deceiving at the nursery. Some selections in this family are annual. It’s best to stick with the deschampsia cespitosa, or flexuosa. Look for a deschampsia called Northern Lights. The blades are beautiful. The Helictotrichon family is commonly called blue oat grass, and these selections are wonderful. They resemble the fescue grasses only with more interest and height, reaching

2-3 feet tall and wide. Keep an eye out for the Sapphire variety of blue oat grass; the blue of those leaves is exciting. Miscanthus is another form of ornamental grass that requires careful placement. Morning Light reaches 4-5 feet tall and wide; Yaka Jima

RED SMOKE BUSH

reaches 3-4 feet tall and wide; Adagia reaches 2-3 feet tall and wide. All can self-sow and all need to be cut back for renewed growth. Shrubs add the hardscape of your creek or riverbed. Leucadendron is one of our new favorites for foliage interest and bloom uniqueness. These shrubs can reach heights from 4-8 feet tall

depending on the variety. All have interesting foliage and pincushion like flowers that are great in arrangements. Look for the selections that have the bright orange to red foliage. Echium can be either a shrub or, in some cases, a biennial. The Pride of Maderia can reach 6 feet tall and 10 feet wide, with gray foliage and spiking blue-purple flowers during mid spring. The Tower of Jewels on the other hand is a biennial that arises in the second year with a 6-10 foot tall spike of dark pink to rose-red flowers. This easy to grow plant is ignored by deer, adding to its attractiveness. Cotinus corrygria, or the smoke bush, is an excellent shrub for our area. It slowly reaches 8-10 feet tall and remains multi trunk with burgundy leaves. The fall color of the smoke bush is orange and scarlet. During spring, small white blooms top the tips of each branch. Consider a shrub the anchor in your creek bed. Variegated Red Twig

NICOLE HACKETT

GARDEN GIRL

Dogwoods are great shrubs for the part sun creek beds. The cream and green basil shaped foliage contrast highly with the red stem of this deciduous shrub. Loropedalum Sizzling Pink is another shrub with high interest foliage. This evergreen has burgundy leaves along arching arms that during spring becomes covered with bright pink explosions. Correa or Dusky Bells is a great evergreen that loves the drainage of a hillside dry creek planting. This shrub reaches only 2 feet tall and eventually 8 feet wide. Fuschia resembling blossoms hang under the branches, this plant is great to look up into. Once you have your rock in place and your stable shrubs and grasses it’s time to decide on perennial, bulbs, and groundcovers. Those ideas will have to wait until next time. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her with questions, comments or suggestions at GardenGirl94517@aol.com

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6780 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton

· 672-0207

September 23, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer .com

Page A15

CV Pumpkin Farm celebrates 25 years of family fun JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

“As a little boy I always dreamed of having a farm,” says David Osteen, owner of Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm and Christmas Trees. As he and his wife, Sharon celebrate 25 years of Pumpkins on their nearly seven acres of farm land on Marsh Creek Road, even David can’t believe how far they’ve come from that dream so long ago. With a little over a week to go before the pumpkin farm opens to the public, David and Sharon have been busy, to say the least, getting the hay ready, revving up the trackless train, organizing the contests, field trips and fun activities, setting up Plumpkin Playland, checking in on Rollin A. Plumpkin and of course, stacking up on the thousands of pumpkins that officially usher in the fall holiday. The farm has come a long way from the first few years when David and Sharon purchased the land in Clayton to escape city life in Oakland and were proud as punch to grow a

DAVID

Tamara Steiner/Clayton PIoneer

AND

SHARON OSTEEN purchased the pumpkin farm 25 years ago to escape city life.

few vegetables and a pumpkin or two. It was a kindergarten teacher from Mt. Diablo Elementary School that saw the pumpkins one day in front of the farm and

told the Osteens she would organize a field trip if they featured a few more pumpkins. David admits he wasn’t sure about the idea, after all, the farm was supposed to be self-suffi-

cient just for the family. “I really didn’t want to deal with the public at first,” he laughs as he recalls his shock that people and school children would be interested in buying their pumpkins.

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In the years to come, the public became the heart and soul of the pumpkin farm, explains David. The farm now hosts over 7,000 school children for educational tours, and displays over a quarter million pounds of pumpkins for guests. In honor of the farm’s 25 years in Clayton this season, there are 25-cent specials and weekly contests including an essay contest asking for stories on favorite memories of visits to the farm. “This has filled the void for our creative juices,” says David, and Sharon agrees. “Every year, we are having more and more fun,” he says. The Osteens like to think of the pumpkin and Christmas tree farm as a place where people can come and forget about their troubles. “If a family is stressed, they can come here and everything is okay,” says David. Adding to the excitement of their 25-year anniversary is the introduction of the Oregon Noble Vintage Designer Christmas Tree to their Christmas Tree Farm. This magnificent tree will be on

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We sold our home on 522 Mt. Davidson Court in Clayton and saved over $32,100 in real estate fees! We are very happy with Help-U-Sell and would use them again! Our agent was very professional and thorough in handling the sale of our home! A. Medrano

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

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26 Mt. Wilson Way

Clayton

$549,500

ng! Pendin

201 Condor Place

Clayton

$595,000

107 Crow Place

Clayton

$789,000

2 Bedrooms + bonus room, 2.5 Baths, approx 1378 sq.ft. Gorgeous updated kitchen w/maple cabinets, tile counters and flr & built in microwave. Updated baths with maple cabinets & tile counters, dining room or den, spacious family room, tile floors & master bedroom upstairs. Absolutely gorgeous with decorator touches throughout! Must See!

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

3 bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,554 sq. ft. Two story unit, Elegant living room with two way fireplace, cooks kitchen w/ breakfast bar & pleasant outdoor patio that has sliding door from family room. Attached 2 car garage, full-sized laundry & nice community pool!

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

030 d $32,0 aved Sold Selllerr S

450 d $32,4 aved Sold! Selllerr S

d $27,950 aved Sold! Selllerr S

d $38,150 aved Sold! Selllerr S

5019 Raven Way

Clayton

$679,000

25 Atchinson Stage Rd.

Clayton

$699,000

5830 Del Trigo Lane

Clayton

$565,000

30 Fleming Ct.

Clayton

$785,000

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

Awake to Views of Mt. Diablo! 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Approx 2,549 sq. ft., Custom additions w/permits, new roof, pergo flrs, spacious family room w/brick fireplace & formal living & dining room w/bay windows, 3 sets of French doors, private landscaped backyard w/deck & RV parking too! Light & bright throughout!

3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, approx 1,659 sq.ft. Large .26 acre lot! Original hardwood flrs throughout, formal living rm w/fireplace, light & bright family rm & eat-in kitchen w/double oven. Central heat, vaulted ceilings, shutters/blinds throughout & large backyard with sparkling pool

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

d $32,150! aved Sold! Selllerr S

ys!! Sold in 4 Da6,110 3 $ d ed Selllerr Sav

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

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

522 Mt. Davidson Court

Clayton

$685,000

4 Large bedrooms, 2 updated baths, approx 2325 sq.ft. Spacious formal living & dining room w/vaulted ceilings, family room w/wet bar, hardwood floor entry, updated eat-in kitchen w/tile counters & central heat/air. Spacious master suite, tile roof, new exterior paint & meticulously maintained yards!

182 Mt. Wilson Way

Clayton

$751,000

5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, approx 2,692 sq.ft. Lovely kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, gas stove, tile counters and garden window! Gas fireplace in family room, oak hardwood flr in entry, kitchen & eating area, wet bar & large laundry room with storage. Master Bedroom features views & private deck, lovely backyard with spa & gorgeous views!

1816 Yolanda Circle

Clayton

$610,000

3 Large Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, approx 1,780 sq.ft. Gorgeous home inside & out! Spacious family room w/woodburning fireplace, dining room w/wood floors, new heat/air & new roof. Master Bedroom with French doors to private Trex patio deck, fruit trees & generous side & backyard with RV parking. Great Clayton Neighborhood!

102 Forest Hill Drive

Clayton

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

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Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm and Christmas Trees has been named the exclusive certified Christmas tree distributor for the Oregon Noble Vintage in Northern California. “This tree is an affirmation of the fact that people want a genuine tree of exquisite beauty to be the focal point of their holidays, something as beautiful as the spirit that it represents,” said David. The Pumpkin Farm will be open Oct 1-31, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. daily.

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David Osteen, Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm

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exhibit at the farm throughout October and reservations will be taken for customers who want to order in advance.

Visit our new office at 4918 Clayton Road

Page A16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

georgevujnovich.com

Trust your home to

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

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

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

Dramatic former model ("Whitney") on a prime golf course view lot! 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3,606sf, 3 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Elaborate custom window coverings & light fixtures. Upgraded marble tile floors throughout main level. Downstairs bedroom or office with bath. Gourmet Corian kitchen. Family room with custom marble fireplace. Lavish master suite. Private lot with deck & extensive waterfall/pond feature & endless views of hills, golf course, valley & city. $1,099,000

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB!

N OO S ING M O C Meticulously maintained "Nantucket" model facing open space with views of hills, ridgeline & canyon. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,600sf, inside laundry & 3 car garage. Neutral décor, carpet & wood blinds throughout! Entry features upgraded beveled glass front doors & upgraded tile floors. Gourmet kitchen features upgraded tile counters, island, tile floors, maple cabinets & pantry with frosted door. Expanded family room with fireplace & recess for TV. Spacious master suite. Rerar yard offers trellis covered random stone patio, large play & lawn areas. $1,095,000

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

FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

ING D N PE

Gorgeous "Candlelight" model located on a private court. 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 2,843sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry. Designer & decorator touches throughout! Upgraded flooring & window coverings. Formal living & dining rooms. Large family room with fireplace. Gourmet kitchen with solid slab granite counters & prof. quality stainless steel appliances including "Dacor" & "Viking". 1st level bedroom & full bath. Spacious master suite. Large .22 acre lot is professionally landscaped with large lawn area, patio, custom BBQ island, private reflecting area featuring cascading waterfall with pond & observation deck with views of hills, valley & city! $975,000

Stunning "Nantucket" model in a quiet court setting! 4 bedrooms, den, 2.5 baths, approx. 3,820sf, 3 car garage & inside laundry. Neutral carpet, designer paint, plantation shutters & wood blinds throughout! Gourmet kitchen features tile counters, island & recipe desk with accent tile back splash, upgraded diagonal laid tile floors, upgraded "mocha" cabinets & pantry. Expanded family room offers a wood burning fireplace & TV recess. Spacious master suite with retreat/nursery/workout room. Large lot features colorful flowers, ornamentals, large lawn area & a trellis covered salt washed patio. $1,195,000

WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

EAGLE PEAK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB

ING D N PE

Superb "Crandall" model on a huge park-like lot! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1,877sf, inside laundry & 2 car garage. Upgraded marble tile entry. Living room with vaulted ceiling, marble tile wet bar & fireplace. Updated gourmet kitchen featuring solid slab bull-nosed granite counters, cherry wood cabinets, stainless steel appliances, eating nook & sunny garden window. Large master suite with bay window sitting area & views of hill with oak trees. Very private & peaceful lot with patio & lush mature landscape. $739,000

ING D N PE

Lovely former model ("Shasta") on a prime golf course view lot! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,373sf, 3 fireplaces & 3 car garage. Neutral décor throughout! Downstairs bedroom with full private bath. Gourmet kitchen. Family room with brick fireplace & custom cabinetry. Spacious master with jet tub. Private lot offers a relaxing spa & magnificent views of golf course, hills, valley & city. $1,150,000

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

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

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

Jumbo $359,651 and up (no points)

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . .5.5% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . .5.5% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .5.5% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . .5.75% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.375% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.75%

30 year, fixed for 3 . . . . . . .5.5% 30 year, fixed for 5 . . . . . . .5.25% 30 year, fixed for 7 . . . . . . .5.75% 30 year, fixed for 10 . . . . . .5.75% 15 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.5% 30 year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.0%

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

PRICE

SALE DATE

107 Salazar Court 1509 Haviland Ct 207 Bigelow Street 1144 Peacock Creek Dr 5736 Verna Way 104 Joscolo View 41 El Portal Drive 30 Mt. Scott Ct 597 Mt. Dell Dr 1550 O'Hara Ct 118 El Portal Pl 1122 Peacock Creek Dr 1749 Indian Wells Wy 1772 Indian Wells Wy 1527 O'Hara Ct 1529 Haviland Pl 5019 Raven Wy 11 Mt. McKinley 620 Black Point Ct 1025 Pebble Beach Dr 5839 Pine Hollow Rd 8425 Marsh Creek Rd 8053 Kelok Way 8051 Kelok Way 50 Nottingham Place 1397 Shell Lane 8025 Kelok Way 55 La Honda Court 21 El Portal Drive 624 Julpun Loop 170 Regency Drive 514 Hamburg Circle 6031 Golden Eagle Way 1200 Easley Drive 8013 Kelok Way 4701 Keller Ridge Dr 6011 Golden Eagle Wy 1824 Eagle Peak Ave 40 La Canada Court 9 Long Creek Circle 220 Condor Way 26 Mt. Wilson Way 5482 Tara Drive 7016 Molluk 474 Obsidian Way

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CLAYTON PIONEER September 23, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Destination: Glacier National Park West Glacier, Montana

KEVIN PARKER

HIKER’S HAVEN I have spent the better part of my life shuffling gear in and out of cars, planes and shuttles on a quest for the “perfect hike,” Along the way, handful of unforgettable trips are vividly burned into my memory. And this week’s hike falls into what I like to call “My Top Five of all Time.” To attain one of these coveted hall of fame spots, the destination must contain nature at her best along with a mind-blowing positive outdoor experience. Glacier National Park is just that, raw nature at her best, all within the confines of 1,000,000 acres of land. Formally called WatertonGlacier International Peace Park, the governments of Canada and the United States linked the two parks back in 1932 making it the world’s first International Peace Park. Old growth forests, wind-swept prairies, ancient glaciers and deep lakes all give visitors a glimpse into why this land was so sacred to the Blackfeet, Salish and Kootenai Indians. The West Entrance is the most convenient point to enter the park. A quick stop at the Apgar Visitor Center will allow you to stock up with enough

Section B

maps, books and trail schwag to make you a well-read park historian by the end of the trip. The hiking opportunities in a park of this magnitude are endless, so spending some time mapping out your adventure will prove to be a smart move. With only a day to spare (and believe me this is not enough), I spent some time at Lake McDonald, which is literally minutes inside the park entrance. Hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing and even fishing are all allowed at this brilliantly colored lake with hues of blues and greens from the glacial sediment found in this region. Next, I headed toward

Hidden Lake via Going-to-theSun Road, one of the world’s most spectacular highways. This 50-mile highway bisects the heart of the glacier, following the shores of the park’s two largest lakes while hugging the cliffs below the Continental Divide and eventually traversing Logan Pass (el. 6646). Initially, I was a bit disappointed to enjoy one of the park highlights from inside a vehicle; however traveling on this highway definitely makes a dramatic impression. Numerous scenic turnouts and wayside exhibits make it impossible to make it to Logan Pass without stopping. Upon reaching the Logan

Pass Visitor Center, the shear number of tourists indicated the popularity of this spot. As I spun around trying to absorb all the beauty of pure unaltered nature, I couldn’t help but to smile as Mount Siyeh (el. 10,014), Going-to-the-Sun Mountain (el. 9,642), Mount Oberlin (el. 8,180), Reynolds Mountain (el. 9,125) and Mount Logan (el. 9,239) all stood proudly before me. With diverse habitats providing homes for over 70 species of mammals and 260 species of birds, not to mention over 700 miles of hiking trails, it is no wonder why this is indeed one of the most intact ecosystems in the lower

Page B1 48 (Source: www.nps.gov/glac/). I followed Hidden Lake Nature Trail from the visitor center and quickly discovered this might be the most popular trail Glacier has to offer. The first mile is built mostly of solid wood planking reminiscent of a boardwalk that travels over rocks and brush while meandering up the hillside towards Hidden Lake. The benefits of a boardwalk type trail system allow enjoyment for all types of hikers, while minimizing impact of the surrounding landscape. Unfortunately, even the most poetic writing could not do the scenic vistas along this trail a shred of justice. Ear to ear grins could be seen on every face, as conversations in languages as diverse as the people who spoke them were heard with each passing group on the trail. The Hidden Lake Overlook is approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead. This is where most turn around, but if you’ve got the legs and are inkling for adventure, my suggestion is to press on until you reach Hidden Lake itself. Doing so equates to a six mile round trip, but the colors of this high mountain lake are like none I have ever seen. To witness this type of natural phenomenon is truly a gift that will not be forgotten.

PADDLING

GLACIER

At these altitudes, weather can come up at any time in almost an instant, so my advice is to always be prepared for a storm or cold weather. As I pushed on back in the direction of the visitor center, I watched the sun disappear behind a distant peak, as I felt a sense of euphoria induced by some karmic force that can only be explained by Mother Nature herself. With an alpenglow while descending Going-to-theSun Road, I couldn’t help but smile at the end of what was one of the best days I can remember. Enjoy! For more information on this hike or other outdoor experiences, contact Kevin at hikershaven@comcast.net.

Highlights: Lake McDonald, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass, Hidden Lake Trail Travel Logistics: Fly into Glacier Park Int’l. Airport (Kalispell, MT). Drive one hour northeast (33 miles) to Apgar Visitor Center (West Entrance).

THE

Kevin Parker/Clayton Pioneer

TRAIL ABOVE

HIDDEN LAKE offer hikers breathtaking vistas with every step.

Trip Tips: Plan on spending a minimum of two days exploring the park. Book a tour on one of the Red Convertible Tour Vehicles up to Logan Pass (these retro style propane fueled vehicles help to minimize traffic and really add to the park experience)

s ’ n d e o t t y n a a l W C t s o M For most of us, when the word "home" is mentioned, it evokes a flood of fond memories. No doubt about it, we all want and need a place where we can build our lives, families, security, and refuge. Indeed, within the home is where the strength of an individual and family is largely formed.

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Page B2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

Clayton Sports Kristian Ipsen twists and turns to earn the gold ber U.S. National Team selected him as “Diver of the Meet” for his accomplishment. In 2003 Kristian competed at the Speedo National Championships in Coral Springs FL which was the first time he got gold medals on the one and three meter boards at that event. In doing so he established two

JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer

The Clayton 12-year-old that set some new Junior Olympic and Pan Am Game records has at least two nicknames. The first is “Boogie Man” which is apparently a nickname his dad gave him while kidding around because as we all know, “everyone is afraid of the boogie man”. His second nickname which he just recently got from his fellow teammates is “The Terminator”, which we’ll explain a little later. The athlete we’re talking about is Kristian Ipsen. Kristian is a competitive diver. He dives for the Diablo Divers, which is a diving team of approximately 15 athletes that practice at the Heather Farm Aquatic Center in Walnut Creek. Kristian is a 7th grader at the Palmer School in Walnut Creek. He attends Palmer, which is a private school, in large part because it allows him the flexibility to travel to some of his competitions across the US and internationally. As Kristian explains it, Palmer gives him his lesson and homework assignments in advance so that if he is scheduled for a diving competition, he can do his schoolwork and homework on the plane or in the hotel while traveling. Palmer’s flexibility and high

“Kristian is the most gifted diver with Godgiven talent that I have ever seen. He wants and expects to be perfect in all that he does.”

Phil Tonne

Ipsen’s coach

IPSEN’S

FAVORITE DIVE

is the “Full Out,” a front two-and-a-half with a full twist.

standards allow him to get good schooling and yet continue to dive competitively. Kristian began diving when he was just 6 years old. He was involved in a few winter sports and he was looking for a summer sport and had tried some gymnastics and swimming earlier but neither was exactly what

Sports Shorts YMCA FALL SPORTS PROGRAMS Various start dates are fast approaching for the Concord/Clayton Branch of the

Mt. Diablo Region YMCA’s fall sports programs at the Clayton Community Gym (Diablo View Middle School). These programs include the following:

he was looking for. He heard about diving. His dad, Kent Ipsen, never was a competitive diver but he was a pretty good backyard pool diver and always enjoyed it. But Kristian found the sport enticing and learned that he was really good at it. Kristian’s sports biography reads like a PHD’s – only it’s in

Sept. 24 Soccer Leagues, Grades pre-K-8; Sept. 24 QUEST League (for children with special needs), Pre-K-8; Sept. 25 Men’s 5 on 5 Basketball, adults age 18+, Sundays; Oct. 1 Flag Football League, grades 2-8; Oct. 1 Cheerleading, grades 2-8;

diving. To begin with, at just 8 years of age, while competing in Indianapolis, Kristian became the youngest diver in the history of US Junior Olympic diving to make it to the finals in all three diving events – the one meter, three meter and platform dives. A year later at nine, Kristian won the West National

photo courtesy of Ipsen family

Championships during the spring in Baton Rouge besting his closest competitor by over 100 points. The next year at 10, Kristian became the only American diver to take gold in all three events at the U.S./Canada Challenge, which was held that year in Buffalo, NY. At that event the 60 mem-

new Junior Olympic records for the under 13 age competition in the one and three meter events. At that competition he became the youngest diver in the history of the sport to capture the National Championship and, in so doing, he broke the records of Greg Louganis and Troy Dumais, two of the best male divers in U.S. diving history. In 2004 at age 11, he took the gold medal again on both the one and three meter spring

See Ipsen, page B3

Oct. 9-Hockey Leagues, grades pre-K–8; Oct. 9 Coed Volleyball, adults age 18+, Thursday evenings. For more information contact Delise Young, Program Director, Concord/Clayton YMCA 889-1625.

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September 23, 2005

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Members Only team wins season play JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer

The regular season came to a close on Sunday, September 11 for the Clayton Bocce Division

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boards making him the youngest ever four-time National Champion. He added a silver medal on the platform diving (i.e. from 5 and 7 meters/ approximately 16 and 23 feet). In recognition of his great 2004 performances Kristian was selected to be a member of the prestigious Olympic Medal Program (OMP). This is a select group of 12 men and 12 women divers representing the short list of US Olympic hopefuls for the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games. Kristian will be the youngest member of the OMP (by over 3 years) as most of the athletes are college age or older. This year Kristian finally began to get serious about this sport of diving. He swept one event after another at his competitions culminating in taking gold on all three boards at the U.S./Canada Challenge and the U.S. Junior Olympic National Championships. He was one of only five Americans to compete on all three boards at the Junior Olympic Pan American Games in the international competition held in Fort Lauderdale, FL where he took two golds together with a silver medal. In early

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October, he will be returning to the Olympic Training Center in Indianapolis, Indiana for performance enhancement training. Then in early January 2006 he will be further evaluated at the OMP after which he expects he will begin competing for the United States internationally at the Senior level in world-class competitions. To put Krisitan’s achievements into proper perspective, over the last three years he has entered 49 competitions and he has medaled in 48 of them with 41 of those medals having a very distinctive “gold” sheen to them. So, we can also see where the “Boogie Man” nickname comes from too. It would be difficult to compete against that kind of skill. And, when one realizes that judging diving at competitions is done by five judges using a combination of both subjective “style” and objective “degree of difficulty” (of a particular dive) standards - where the highest and lowest two judges scores are thrown out - a whole lot of various judges have all regularly agreed that Kristian’s dives are obviously superb. Yet through all of this Kristian remains a fairly typical, unassuming 12 year old. He is bright and very polite, yet quite expressive when one gets him talking about his sport. He told me some of the reasons he loves diving. “I just love being in the water,” he said. “Diving is such a rush for me! It’s really fun and I am always learning new things – trying to improve. It’s a sport – like golf – that you can never really master. There is always a new, harder dive to try to add to

KRISTIAN

Division make the end-of-season playoffs. Then, the Springwood Rollers “sprang” all the way from 10th place into seventh to secure their own playoff spot. The final standings for the regular season are shown in the box at far left. The first round of the playoffs was held on Sat. Sept.18, at at Newhall Park in Concord. The winners of the second round games will play for the championship and second place. The losers of the second round games will play for third place. Winners will be announced in the Oct. 7 issue of the Pioneer.

photo courtesy of the Ipsen family

BEGAN DIVING

when he was just six years old.

your repertoire.” Kristian explained the importance of “spotting” in proper diving techniques. In a particular dive – say a back two and a half – it’s hard for the diver to know where he/she is in the air. But when the diver ‘spots’ the board the second time around in that dive, he must kick at the board to get into the proper position to enter the water precisely. We also talked about strategy and how a diver during competitions must try to do dives with the highest degree of difficulty that he can do well. And, that is Kristian’s secret weapon. He can normally do bigger, more difficult dives, better than most of his competition. Kristian said his best dive currently “is probably the Full Out.” He said “my specialty is twisting and the Full Out is a front two and a half with a full twist.” Kristian’s coach is Phil Tonne, who in addition to coaching the Diablo Divers, was also the Head Diving Coach at Cal Berkeley for 20 years and is now the Head Coach at UC Davis. Phil described Kristian this way. “First and foremost, I

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Ipsen, from page B2

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have been involved in this sport for 40 years and Kristian is the most gifted diver with Godgiven talent that I have ever seen. He is a pleasure to work with and always works hard. He wants and expects to be perfect in all that he does. He is a straight A student and is so far beyond his age in his schoolwork and in his talent when he is performing that it is incredible. It is almost ‘Tiger Woodish’. His parents both help to keep him on an even keel when Kristian gets too hard on himself. He just has that inner drive and he steps up competitively if he feels he is being challenged. Its just amazing.” Oh, by the way, did we mention that diving apparently runs strongly in the family? Kristian’s 9 year old sister, Lauren Ipsen, also trains with the Diablo Divers, and she recently attended her first regional diving competition, the Oregon Summer Regionals where she won a silver medal! And, about that other nickname, “The Terminator” . . . Kristian told us he got that nickname during the recent Pan Am Games where all the U.S. divers roomed together on the same floor of a hotel. He further explained that he is basically pretty shy and friends and parents had to stay in rooms on other floors at the hotel so it was hard for him to be outgoing with a new roommate and with all the other swimmers at the meets. He said he has to work at socializing a little more. His teammates recognizing his shyness gave him the nickname, “The Terminator”, because, as Kristian put it “They told me that although I often didn’t say much, I ‘really took care of business’ (while diving) in the pool.”

CORRECTION

In our city swim meet story in the Aug. 19 issue, we reported that the Dana Hills Swim Team 9-10 girls broke the ten-year-old city record in girls' freestyle. This is correct, however, the DHST team record for 9-10 girls' freestyle relay at 2:03:34 is still held by the team of Nicole DeVecchio, Megan Willis, Megan Pardi and Lindsay Nelson, set at the county meet in 1995. Source: Herc Pardi

Page B4

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

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large sizes and range from $9.95 for a small classic cheese pizza to $22.95 for an extra large Super Combo. See ad this page for hours. ELYSIUM on Main Street also has a brand new menu with more choices and lower prices. Dishes range from “small plates,” featuring appetizers, soups and salads from $5 for Organic Field Greens with toasted hazelnuts, beets and champagne vinegar, to a Half Dozen Oysters on the Half Shell for $12. “Medium plates-good for tasting,” (try the Cornmeal Crusted Calamari Salad with spicy aioli for $7.50) are great for a light meal, or you can combine them with a smaller plate for a complete meal. “Large plates, good for an entree” include Halibut and a Five Spice Dusted Duck Breast for $15; or Flank Steak and Frites (simple as that) for $14 among other choices. Owner Greg Severn has also added a “Little Ones Only” menu and heartily welcomes families with children. See Elysium’s ad on page B5. Are you ready for a relaxing afternoon with friends, enjoying a pot of tea and And for a little bit of Italy? Just down Clayton Road at the corner of Clayton Road and Treat Blvd., is PASTA PRIMAVERA. This lovely little trattoria offers a delectable linguini with garlic and mushrooms in a virgin olive oil for $8.95...my personal favorite. Other pasta dishes include Chicken Pesto Gorgonzola, a rigatoni dish with chicken breast and

american contemporary bistro in downtown Clayton

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

-San Francisco Chronicle, 2/18/2005

Full B ar N ow Open Bar

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

10 am - 2 pm

Sunday Brunch

Penne - wild mushroom ragout,

kalamata olives, garlic and pine nuts $12

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

672-11333

for reservations

ting Patio Sea blee la i Now Ava

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

tomatoes in a creamy pesto Gorgonzola sauce ($13.95.) For an intimate atmosphere and a good wine list, Pasta Primavera can’t be beat. Or, how about a relaxing afternoon with friends, enjoying a pot of tea and delectable treats in a beautiful full service tea room? ENGLUND'S TEA COTTAGE offers these amenities and more at their lovely tea room in the Clayton Station. Proprietors Sally Englund and Pamela Barnett want the tea cottage to be a place "where good friends gather." After you browse the gift shop and collectibles, enjoy lunch or high tea with tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, fresh fruit and dip and dessert. There's a beautiful muraled room perfect for bridal and baby showers, staff meetings and club gatherings. To book your party, call 672-8327. Lunch reservations are a must. A little more on the casual side and a great place to take the kids is ROCCO’S RISTORANTE at 2909 Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek. Voted the best pizza in the Bay Area by a Contra Costa Times Reader Poll, Rocco’s serves up a killer house specialty. The Dominator, piled high with pepperoni, salami, mushrooms, ham, linguica, sausage and onions, is not for the faint of heart. At $19.97, this large pizza will feed a small army. Rocco’s also has several choices of classic Italian pasta, homemade minestrone and several salads. All pasta dishes are served with fresh bread. Top your pasta dinner off with a glass of wine and you’re well fed and satisfied for well under $20 (tax and tip included.) Rocco’s opens every day at 11 a.m. For view and atmosphere you can’t do better than ZANDONELLA’S situated on the lovely Delta View Golf Course in Pittsburg. Zandonella’s is open Tue.Sun for lunch and dinner. This family friendly restaurant offers an extensive menu that covers every craving. From that perfect bowl of Spaghetti and Meatballs all the way to a succulent and perfectly roasted rack of lamb, you are sure to find your favorite. All entrees include soup or salad, pasta and bread. The view is free. Call for reservations, 432-1700.

More Dining, page B5

y Earl ecial Sp Bird 5 p.m. ner

3 – rse din -cou e day e Thr .95 any $9

It’s never too early to plan your holiday event. Start a new holiday tradition at Oakhurst Country Club and spend this holiday season surrounded by country club elegance. With our expert planners mapping out all the details and our executive chef preparing culinary delights, we’ll help create an unforgettable experience. Plus, book your holiday event by October 15, 2005 and receive a complimentary champagne greeting upon your guest’s arrival.

New Lunch Menu from $6.95 Kids Menu, $3.95 Banquet facilities available

1508 Kirker Pass Rd. behind Shell Station

672-6868

September 23, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Police Blotter WEEK OF 9/2-9/8

The dates and times shown indicate when the incident was reported to the Police Department. Arrests 9/3, 12:04 a.m. Mitchell Canyon Road. After responding to a call regarding a loud party, officers issued a citation to a Clayton man, 19. Other juveniles contacted designated drivers and were able to leave the area. 9/3, 8:09 p.m. Clayton Road and El Camino Drive. A Concord man, 22, was stopped for speeding and found to be driving without a license. He was issued a citation and was released from the scene. 9/7, 9:29 a.m. Mt. Sequoia Court. Obtain Money by False Pretenses. A Pittsburg man, 35, was arrested after he was found to have accepted money for a job that he did not complete. He was transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 9/8, 1:33 p.m. Clayton Road and Washington Blvd.

A Stockton female, 35, was stopped for not having a rear license plate on her vehicle and found to be driving with a suspended license. She was issued a citation and released with her signed promise to appear. Burglaries and Thefts 9/2. 4:50 a.m. Mt. Hamilton, burglary, vehicle. 9/2, 9:37 a.m. Mt. Rainier Court, identity theft. 9/2. 12:51 a.m. Keller Ridge Drive, grand theft. 9/7, 9:48 p.m. Marsh Creek Road and Pine Lane, vehicle theft.

WEEK OF SEPT. 9-15. Accidents 9/10, 9:46 p.m. Mountaire Parkway and Mt. Palomar Place. Traffic accident, no injuries. 9/12, 3:56 p.m. Clayton Road and Marsh Creek Road. Traffic accident with property damage. Arrests 9/10, 11:53 p.m. Clayton Road and Talisman Way. A Concord man, 46, was

Dining, from page B4 The dining room at OAKHURST is open Wed.Sun. for lunch and dinner. The lunch menu is extensive, offering appetizers, a daily soup selection, salads, sandwiches and wraps and pasta. Dinner on Friday and Saturday features a heavenly

roasted prime rib for $20.99-$24.99 in a size that’s perfect for every appetite. Wednesday dinner is a pasta buffet for $14.99 ($6.99 for kids). Don’t be mislead by the name of this delightful fami-

stopped for expired registration and found to be driving with a suspended license. He was issued a citation and released with his signed promise to appear. 9/10, 5:43 p.m. Mt. Wilson Way. After responding to a call regarding a disturbance, officers arrested a Clayton man, 43, for public intoxication. He was transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 9/11, 1:13 a.m. Michigan Blvd. And Ygnacio Valley Road. A Concord woman, 32, was stopped when the vehicle she was driving was observed weaving within its own lane. After failing a field sobriety test she was arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 9/12, 3:50. Center Street and Gold Rush Court. Police stopped a Concord man, 31, for speeding and found him to be driving with a suspended license and expired registration. He was issued a citation and released with his signed promise to appear 9/13, 9:18 a.m. Heritage Trail. Officers observed a Concord woman, 32, known to have a suspended license, driving. She was stopped, arrested and transported to Concord Police Department

for booking 9/14, 10:44 p.m. Clayton Road and Center Street. Officer stopped a Clayton man, 20, for expired registration. He was arrested for driving with a suspended license, no proof of insurance and probation violation. He was also found to have an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was transported to Concord Police Department for processing 9/15, 9:50 p.m. Clayton Road and Lydia Lane. A Clayton man, 59, was stopped for speeding. After failing a field sobriety test he was arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking.

ly 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. Both include soup or salad, warm sourdough bread and beverage. See Mary’s Pizza Shack ad on this page.

Page B5

The Pioneer -- It’s your paper!

Pasos de Mt. Diablo

Barbara Carson

owner/breeder

Peruvian Paso Horses

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

Chalan: German Salazar

672-4467

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

Burglaries and Thefts 9/9, Haviland Place, petty theft. 9/10, Clayton Road, burglary, commercial. 9/12, Oak Street, identity theft. 9/13, Mountaire Parkway, petty theft. 9/13, Mountaire Parkway, grand theft.

Please recycle this paper

New th is year : Carni w i t val Save wit h 9 fun r ides h advanc

ed ticket $10 for b purchase ook of 2 5 tickets ($15 for book of 20 at e Buy now at The D vent) og, Alad Skipolin in i's, Ed's Mudville o's, Grill and Rod ies

Page B6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., SEPT. 28 FOR THE OCT. 7 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

SEPT. 29 CBCA (Clayton Business & Community Association) Meeting @ Oakhurst 6:30 p.m. Monthly dinner meeting, last non-holiday Thursday of the month. Reservations due by Tuesday noon prior, 672-2272. John Rubiales, President. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.

FALL PROGRAMS @ CONCORD/CLAYTON YMCA Programs include flag football league (2-8 grade), cheerleading (2-8 grade), soccer leagues (pre-k - 8 grade), QUEST league (for children with special needs), men’s 5 on 5 (18+) and coed volleyball (18+). Call Delise Young, Program Director at 889-1625, Clayton Community Gym, 700 Gym Court, Clayton. ONGOING THROUGH NOV. 16 WWII Memorabilia @ Clayton Historical Society Museum The newest special exhibit at the Clayton Historical Society Museum is WWII, Red, White Blue. Artifacts and memorabilia from all walks of life during the war years will be displayed. Local veterans are well represented in this exhibit which honors the men and women who served and the families who joined in the war effort on the home front. Clayton Historical Society Museum, 6101 Main Street, Clayton. The Museum is open Sunday and Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. SEPT. 2 - OCT. 1 Diablo Light Opera Company’s Miss Saigon at Regional Center for the Arts Set in 1975 during the final days leading up to the American evacuation of Vietnam, Miss Saigon is the story of two young lovers, An American G.I. and a Vietnamese girl. Their struggle against the forces of war and prejudice is the heart of the story. Tickets are $28.75 - $33.75. Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, 943-7469 SEPT. 13 - NOV.3 Patty Cakes and Picture Book Time @ Clayton Community Library Patty Cakes - 11 a.m. Tuesdays, story time for birth to 3 years. Picture book time - 11 a.m. Thursdays, child may attend without parent. For 3 to 5 years. No registration required. 673-0659, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. SEPT. 15 - NOV. 13 “Local Voice - Defining Community Through Art @ Bedford Gallery, Walnut Creek. Clayton artist Carol Putman’s paintings are on display in this juried exhibition of Contra Costa Artists. Only 225 artists were selected out of 850 entries for this event. Bedford Gallery, Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, 295-1417. SEPT. 24 Literacy Tutor Training @ Project Second Chance, Pleasant HIll Read because you can, teach someone who can’t. Help an adult to read, write and spell better. Volunteers are needed in East and Central Costa County County. Project Second Chance (PSC), the Contra Costa Library adult literacy program, trains volunteers to become literacy tutors. Training is Sept. 14 from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Sept. 15 and 24 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Please call 927-3250 or email us at psc@cclib.org for registration information. Project Second Chance, 75 Santa Barbara Road, Pleasant Hill. SEPT. 24 Volunteer training @ The Lindsay Wildlife Museum, Walnut Creek 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek is seeking volunteers to help children and adults learn about wildlife and all the animals that are permanent residents of the museum--hawks, owls, mountain lion, gray fox, ravens, snakes, and many more. Volunteer hours are flexible. Orientation classes are free, but pre-registration is strongly suggested. Please call (925) 254-4773 for more information. SEPT. 24 Plaque dedication @ Black Diamond Plaza 11 a.m. Dedication of the plaque in Black Diamond Plaza commemorating Nortonville Road, officially "Black Diamond Way." The plaque commemorating Nortonville Road, from which the coal miners came to Clayton, will be unveiled and dedicated by the Clayton Historical Society. Main Street and Marsh Creek Road, Clayton. SEPT. 24 Fall Clayton Cleans Up 9a.m. - 12 p.m. Help clean Clayton’s creeks, parks, trails and landscaping. Individuals, homeowner associations and neighborhood groups, service clubs, everyone welcome. Gloves, trash bags and small tools provided. We will be bulb planting in various landscape/open space areas. Meet at City Hall, Clayton at 9 a.m. For more information call City Hall at 6737300. OCT. 1, 2, Second Annual Clayton Oktoberfest Sat.11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Main Street, Downtown Clayton. The Internationals will play non-stop from 1:00 p.m. each day, German style foods including a variety of sausages, imported German beer, premium California wines, sodas, and fresh lemonade will be available. Kinderland and a Rootbiergarten for the kids. New this year - carnival rides. Arts and craft booths to find that special gift. Win a cruise for two or other prizes to be raffled throughout the event. Free admission and parking. Sponsored by the CBCA (Clayton Business and Community Association). OCT. 1, 8 Junior Theatre Program Auditions @ Civic Arts Education, Walnut Creek Designed for students ages 10-15, Junior Theatre provides an eight-month program of training that includes basic acting skills, improvisation, movement, and voice techniques. The program culminates with two performances at the Del Valle Theater in Walnut Creek. This year's shows are "The Magic of Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle" (Feb. 24-25, 2006) and "Aladdin, Jr. (May 5-6, 2006). Nina Auslander returns as the program’s director. For information call 9435846 for audition appointment. Civic Arts Education, Shadelands campus, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek.

OCT. 7 - NOV. 5 Contra Costa Musical Theatre's The Full Monty @ Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts Winner of 10 Tony Awards in 2001, this heartwarming, upbeat comedy tells the story of six laid-off steelworkers, down on their luck, frustrated with life, women and work, who, regardless of looks and ability become the best Chippendale strippers in Brooklyn. They bare their souls and a whole lot

SEPT. 29, OCT. 6, 13, 20, 27 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting @ Contra Costa Farm Bureau 10 a.m.and 5:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. 800/326-8450 x 2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord.

more. Ticket prices range from $27 for students to $37 for adults. Oct.7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, Nov. 3, 4, 5 - 8 p.m. Oct.9, 23, 29, 30 2 p.m. For tickets call 943-SHOW or visit www.dlrca.org. Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive in Walnut Creek. OCT. 7 We Care Services for Children Fundraiser @ Zia Fraedo's Restaurant 6:30 p.m. - 11 p.m. The event is a Black and White Gala with Heart featuring a reception, silent auction, dinner and dancing. Proceeds from the event will benefit We Care Services for Children. Tickets are $85 per person and $595 for a table of eight. Sponsorships are available from $250 - $5,000. For information or reservations, please contact Barbara Langsdale at (925) 671-0777, ext. 13 or e-mail: langsdale@wecarebmcc.org. Oct. 7 - Nov. 5 MOON RIVER: A JOHNNY MERCER CABARET @ CTA CROSSROADS Features over 50 Mercer songs from radio show tunes of the 1920's and big band era to the great Hollywood film scores of the 1960's and 70's. Evening performances at 8 p.m., Sat. matinees at 2 p.m. Previews $20, Oct. 7, 8, 13. Regular performances $22 seniors/youth, $25 regular. Thursday Oct. 20, 27, and Nov. 13, Fri. Oct. 14, 21, 28, and Nov. 4, Sat. matinees Oct. 15, 22, 29 and Nov. 5, Sat. evenings Oct. 15, 22, 29 and Nov. 5. CTA Crossroads Theatre, 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek. 944-0597. OCT. 14 - NOV. 6 Twelfth Night @ Diablo Valley College Shakespeare's tale of unrequited love in a gender bending comedy of mistaken identities! A storm at sea separates twins - a sister and her brother. Alone in a man's world, Viola disguises herself as a man to serve as emissary for the lovesick Duke Orsino in his quest to win the heart of the beautiful Olivia, only to have Olivia fall for the messenger, Viola. When Viola's twin, Sebastian arrives, mistaken identities confuse, confound and delight! Performances on Fri. and Sat. at 8pm, Sun. at 2:30pm. Tickets $10-$13. Box Office: (925) 687-4445, DVC Performing Arts Center, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. OCT. 24, 27 Measure M Public Forum The Clayton Pioneer will host two public forums on Measure M on Monday October 24 and Thursday, October 27, both evenings at 7 in the Clayton Library Community Room. Members of the city council, the original Blue Ribbon Committee and the Measure M political action committee will be on hand to answer questions and address citizen concerns. OCT. 27 - NOV. 12 Education Volunteers Training @ Lindsay Wildlife Museum Share the wonders of wildlife and nature with museum visitors or school groups. Special training classes will introduce you to the museum and our live animal ambassadors. Training is 6 classes over 3 weeks. and starts on October 27. Fee is $100.00; Lindsay wildlife Museum members $65.00. For more information please call (925)627-2944. OCT. 31 Harvest Festival @ Crossroads Covenant Church 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Crossroads Covenant Church is having their annual Harvest Festival Halloween night from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. This is an all community event; everyone is welcome. Jumpies, Speed Pitch, Inflatable Twister and lots more fun stuff. Dinner will be available all evening. Lots of candy for the kids! Crossroads Covenant Church, 5353 Concord Blvd., 798-5905.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS SEPT. 24 American Association of University Women's 100 Years of Fashion @ Diamond Terrace 4 p.m. Fashion show proceeds go to the AAUW scholarship fund for a local student. Tickets are $15, refreshments will be served. Contact Luz Argyriou at ((925) 672-1982. We hope you will be able to join us and support the young women in our community. Anyone interested in information about Clayton AAUW please contact Jean Cain at 672-5539 0r Julia Garcia at 671-0467. SEPT. 27, OCT. 4, 11, 18, 25 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. SEPT. 27, OCT. 11, 25 Clayton Valley Woman’s Club @ Holy Cross Lutheran Church 9:30 a.m, caffe and snacks, 10 a.m, membership meeting. Special entertainment at 10:45am provided by The Vagabond Players of Pleasant Hill. They will present "The Silver Whistle", a comedy play originally on Broadway in the 1940's. For invitation call Millie Graham, 672-1868. Regular monthly meetings held the second and fourth Tues. of the month. Anyone interested in joining the woman’s club please contact Shirley Boyd, President at 672-1163. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1092 Alberta Way, Concord. SEPT. 28, OCT. 12, 19, 26 Concord Soroptimist Meeting Women at their best working to help other women. Business, professional people or people interested in providing service to the community are invited to luncheon meetings at Marie Calender’s the second and fourth Wednesday of each month and at The Left Bank the third Wednesday of the month.Call Gloria Utley at 672-0508, email at gloutley@aol.com. or Jo Harlow, 827-9676. for information.

SEPT. 29, OCT. 6, 13, 20, 27 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker.www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. OCT. 8 The Clayton Valley Woman's Club Kitchen Tour 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. The self-directed tour of six kitchens in Clayton Valley starts at Clayton City Hall courtyard where you pick up maps and brochures. Tickets will be $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Proceeds will benefit local charities and scholarships. For ticket information call Joan at 6722471. The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club is a non-profit organization)

OCT. 10 Clayton Valley 4-H Club @ Farm Bureau Hall 7:10 p.m. Open to youth ages 5 - 19, and adults. Monthly meetings Sept. through May. Projects in small and large animals, skills including cooking, photography, arts/crafts etc. Opportunities in leadership, community service, conferences, 4-H camp, fairs. Contact: Candy Hogan 925 969-1325. Farm Bureau Hall, 5554 Clayton Rd. Concord. OCT. 13 Women's Connection Luncheon @ Oakhurst Country Club 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" is the theme. Learn about social groups for women, spotlighting the Red Hat Society. Show off your red hat if you have one! The featured speaker Maggie Williamson, an educator and experienced communicator, will share how she learned to build bridges over the chasms of life. Cost is $16.00 inclusive. Please call Rose by October 8th at (925) 798-6778 to make reservations. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Dr, Clayton.

BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT SEPT. 27, OCT. 4, 11, 18, 25 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ County Administration Building 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 335-1900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. SEPT. 27, OCT. 11, 25 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. OCT. 13 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail, Clayton. OCT. 4, 18 Clayton City Council Meeting @ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Open to the public. Agendas posted at the following locations: City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, Ohm's Bulletin Board, 1028 Diablo St., Clayton, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton.

SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION OCT. 6, NOV. 3, DEC. 1 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Clayton Valley High School 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. in the school library. Please call President, Melinda Moore for more information at 672-0930. OCT. 18 , NOV. 15 Parent Faculty Club Meeting @ Mt. Diablo Elementary 7:00 p.m., Multi Use Room. Make a difference in your child's education. For items to be included on the agenda, contact Stacey Wickware 673-1999, the5wicks@sbcglobal.net or Kristy Smith 673-1795, kristinsmith@yahoo.com, PFC Co-Presidents. The dates for the rest of the school year are: Oct.18, Nov.15. Childcare is available. Watch website for details.! http://www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/mountdiabloelementary/.

Calendar Sponsorship Available Sponsor the Clayton Pioneer’s Community Calendar and be the only ad on this page.Call (925) 672-0500 for details.

September 23, 2005

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Ukraine trip stretches missionary’s heart

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Why Episcopal? Reason #3: Free wine on Sundays SAINT JOHN’S PARISH T HE E PISCOPAL C HURCH

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Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church 925-672-4848 1578 Kirker Pass Road Patricia Stout Plymale Senior Pastor Timothy J. Mooney Associate Pastor Raymond S. Campton Parish Associate z Following the risen Christ by studying His Word z Living God’s Love through service to others

Sundays 10:00 a.m.

www.cvpresby.com

The Clayton Pioneer’s “Music Notes” columnist

Clayton’s own

Jim Hudak Pianist and Composer For bookings and performances:

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

Call Or Write:

Page B7

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

On August 8, Merry Pelletier and 15 other members of Clayton Community Church left for a missionary trip to the Ukraine. The women led a Bible school at an orphanage, taught oral hygiene and English and visited churches in the countryside. Here, Merry reflects on a few of the many, rich experiences from her trip. MERRY PELLETIER Special to the Pioneer

The Ukraine trip was so much more than I ever expected and am able to describe. I went expecting to bring blessings to others and instead was totally blessed. I was prepared to greet people that were oppressed and rarely ever smiled. I was told not to be offended if I smiled or greeted someone and they did not respond. How surprised I was to be greeted with genuine love, affection and generosity. All but three of the incredible team of 16 women that I had the privilege of working with were new to Missions. I cannot express how special each one of these women’s friendship means to me. We are bound together as one in Christ, a bond that can never be broken. One of the most difficult things we were asked to do on the first day after arriving in Kharkov, Ukraine, was to go and evangelize to sick people in a hospital way out in the country. I could never have envisioned such deplorable conditions. Many of the people that we prayed with were elderly and very sick with complications from diabetes. Several had amputations due to infections and were crying the entire time we were with them. They were desperate for hope. We shared about the hope of Jesus, and many asked Him into their hearts. Working with the children at

the orphanage was a joy! There were about 70-80 kids between the ages of three and 16. They loved our Prayer Safari Adventure Camp as they learned about Jesus through worship songs, crafts, games, and daily lessons on the Lord’s Prayer. Our hearts were stretched as we became more and more attached to these children that all have families, but are unable to stay with them for various reasons. Many come from alcoholic families and the dysfunction and abuse forces them to run away. The orphanage is really a temporary shelter Photo courtesy of Patty Robinson much like our foster MERRY PELLETIER BIDS FAREWELL to new friend Lena who hopes to become an art home care. It was teacher. The 16 year old Lena was a substitute “mother” for the orphans. especially hard to say goodbye, because we did not appreciate what an that he had been electrocuted at did not want to leave them extravagant gift it was until we one time and his heart had behind. I couldn’t believe that in were told that someone gave up stopped for over 20 minutes. just five days I could become so his or her few precious belong- His friend tried CPR several fond of so many children. ings so that we could have a gift. times but it didn’t work. One 16-year-old girl named It was so humbling and touch- Alexander shared that in a Lena was the “mother” to all of ing. They had so little yet want- vision, he saw a light. At the end the children. When she walked ed to share something special was an ugly, dark, terrifying into the room and spoke the with us to remember them. I will beast calling for him and he children listened and obeyed. never forget the look on their heard gnashing of teeth. He was What an unbelievable position tear stained cheeks as they terrified and cried out to God. for her to assume at the age of peered out their windows as Above was a man dressed in 16. Her dream was to become an they waved goodbye to us. Our radiant white, he said, “His soul art teacher, and she was hoping lives will never be the same. is not yours.” He came back to to continue her education in the There’s one last story I want life after 20 minutes and now he fall. to share before I close. One day is not only a believer sharing his The sweet, generous girls in we went out into the country for story, but he is a pastor. He the orphanage made a picture a wonderful BBQ with the Nova shared that people being sepafor us to bring home. It was a Vodalaga Church and some of rated from God caused the portrait, made on a piece of the students who were learning gnashing of teeth. Alexander wallpaper, of a young Ukrainian English through the Slavic said that his grandmother had girl with large beautiful eyes. Her Christian Ministries. We played prayed for him as a child…and hair made with yarn taken from games and had a wonderful so the seeds were planted. a sweater, and flowers adorned time. Merry is Finance Manager for the the collar and blouse that were Then Pastor Alexander came City of Clayton and a member of made from a pillowcase and and shared his amazing testimo- Clayton Community Church. This is sheet. We loved the picture, but ny with a few of us. He told us her first mission trip.

Church News CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH Clayton Community Church has published its first cookbook, “Feeding the Flock” filled with 500 recipes from 100 cooks. It started with the Healing Meals ministry at Clayton Community Church, where meals are provided to church families in times of need. The best recipes have been collected from members, family, and friends and compiled into an attractive keepsake cookbook. The books are on sale for $10 each or buy four and get one free. To purchase one of these cookbooks, call the church office at 673-9060. Proceeds will go toward women’s retreat scholarship funds. At Clayton Community Church we believe God has real answers for your real world. Our church is a family. We provide loving care for small children, a variety of age appropriate classes, and plenty of activities for all ages and interests. Every Sun. 9 and 10:45 a.m. 673-9060, Clayton Community Church, Diablo View Middle School, Clayton road and Upper Marsh Creek Road, Clayton. CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church will host a six-week 12-Step series to introduce people to the concepts of healing first formulated by Alcoholics Anonymous. Over 100 other groups have now been given permission by AA to modify and use the same steps for issues such as codependency, eating disorders, nicotine use, drugs of all types, gambling, spending, and working. The classes will be designed around participant needs with general information, support, and recovery experience, strength and hope. Patricia

and Stephen Plymale, will co-facilitate the series at the church beginning Sun. Sept. 25 through Oct. 30 at 5 p.m. Senior Pastor Plymale served as the founding director of a 12-step interfaith ministry in Marin County from 1990 to 1998. Stephen Plymale facilitated aftercare groups at the treatment center of Ohio State University Hospital for over six years and currently works for the National Council of Alcoholism and other Drug Dependency in San Francisco. The general public is invited and there is no charge. The class will meet Sundays through Oct. 30, but the meeting time may change. Please call the church for information, questions, to register or reserve a space for childcare, 672-4848 or e-mail psplymale@aol.com. If you have written poetry, are a published poet, like to hear poetry read, or want to read a favorite poem yourself, plan to attend the Poetry Night at Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church Sept. 25, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the sanctuary. Everyone is welcome. The Poetry Night started about 10 years ago during the summer solstice to celebrate the coming of summer. Now it’s being revived near the vernal equinox time to celebrate the coming of fall. Contact the church office for details on “Sundays at 9” class, Women’s Monthly Bible Study on the second Tues. at 2 p.m. and second Wed. at 7 p.m.. Preaching schedule: Sept. 25 and Oct. 9 - Rev. Tim Mooney, Oct. 2 - Rev. Patricia Plymale. 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton, 94517, 672-4848, www.cvpresby.org.

Night begins For more information call 925-671-9942. First Lutheran Church, 4000 Concord Blvd. Concord CA. ST. BONAVENTURE PARISH The death of a loved one is unlike any other loss. Whether sudden and tragic or one with warning and preparation, the reality of death leaves most of us shocked, confused and sad. Grieving people need time and space to honor their grief. Candy Negrete, Alan Gaber and a team of peer ministers will facilitate a seven-week workshop to help you begin the healing process. Oct. 6 – Nov. 7, 7:30– 9 p.m. in the St. Bonaventure Chapel. Please call 672-5800 to register or Candy Negrete at 672-2324 for more information. Registration is required. Come and See. Would you like to learn more about what it means to live as a Catholic Christian? Come joins us for a discussion featuring local Catholics talking about their faith journeys and the Church today. Information about the initiation process will be available for those who may want to continue the journey. We’ll be gathering at the St. Bonaventure Large Hall, 5562 Clayton Road at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 11. For more information please contact Sister Anne Burgard at 672-3899. ST. JOHN’S PARISH Saint John’s Episcopal Parish beat all prior records in the sixth annual Back-toSchool Backpack Project. Pictured: Parish coordinator Carol Henshaw, of Clayton,

CROSSROADS COVENANT CHURCH Crossroads Covenant Church will have their annual Harvest Festival on Halloween night, Oct. 31 from 6-9 p.m. This is an all community event and everyone is welcome. Dinner will be available all evening. Crossroads Covenant Church, 5353 Concord Blvd., 798-5905. FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH You are invited to join First Lutheran Church for Family Night every Wed., 5:309 p.m. Fun, games, music, dinner, and worship. Newcomers are welcome. Family

helps Shelter Inc. resource coordinator, Theresita Ortiz, load up a record number of fully-stocked backpacks for 54 young students in need in Contra Costa County.

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

ARF shelter is committed to a “no kill” policy An ARF volunteer sent me an email about a visitor he had from Moscow who was very surprised at the money, energy and time we expend to save the lives of abandoned and orphaned dogs and cats. The visitor, who had grown quite fond of the ARF volunteer’s foster dog, pondered why we don’t just kill the surplus dogs and cats because there are so many. The volunteer told me that he knows the answer in his heart, but it is difficult to put in words. He noted that you can’t reduce love to dollar terms but he would like some words to explain what his heart knows. The questions led me to think about the little girl who isolated herself in her room until her family adopted a dog. The comfort of the dog brought this child out into the family activities and she loved to

BRENDA BARNETTE PICASSO

PAWS

AND

CLAWS

join in with her new best furry friend on her lap. I thought about a widower whose life became worthwhile again because a little red dog followed him around the house. I thought about a man with disabilities whose best friend is his beloved cat. I thought about the many ways that companion animals enrich and improve our lives.

I asked ARF’s People Connect Director how she answers the question of why it is wrong to take the lives of healthy dogs and cats. In open discussions with students she uses quotes from famous people like Abraham Lincoln who said, “I am in favor of animal rights as well as human rights. That is the way of the whole human being... I care not for a man’s religion whose dog or cat is not better for it”. All of the world’s major religions place love, compassion and mercy in the highest rank of virtues. This message is found in Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. When working with youth, ARF staff and volunteers sometimes draw from respected religious leaders such as Buddha who said “When a man has pity on all living creatures only then is he noble” and Mahatma

Adrianna and Pheasant are ARF’s Adoption Stars

ADRIANNA

“Adrianna,” a 19-week-old blue Mackeral tabby kitten, was out of time at a public shelter when the ARF Rescue Patrol saved her and brought her back to ARF. Adrianna is a gentle soul who will melt your heart. She is content to spend her day in your arms. Adrianna is rec-

PHEASANT

ommended for families with children twelve years and older. Bring everyone who will live with Adrianna to meet her at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, noon to 5

p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Come fall in love with Adrianna and her fabulous feline friends at ARF. “Pheasant,” a 2-year-old Chihuahua mix, was out of time at a public shelter when the ARF Rescue Patrol rescued him

Gandhi who observed “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated…I hold that the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man.” During this very troubled time for people on the Gulf Coast, diverse groups have come together in an amazing effort to help people and protect animals. They have done more than augment government efforts. They have demanded that animals’ lives be saved and they have put systems in place to ensure that the grueling work can be done. Individuals who cannot physically help are sending money and supplies. Others are providing foster care for animals that are being relocated. Private national networks were established in record time to help Katrina’s animal victims

who had been swept away or left behind. I believe that ARF’s volunteer has the only true answer when he said he “just knows in his heart” why a caring community invests in saving the lives of abandoned and orphaned dogs and cats. Albert Einstein predicted that “There will come a

day when such men as myself will view the slaughter of innocent creatures as horrible a crime as the murder of his fellow man” and that day is approaching. Brenda F. Barnette is the CEO of Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation. She can be reached at bbarnette@arf.net.

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and brought him back to ARF. Pheasant is a busy and bouncy little guy. He loves everyone he meets and will thrive in an active home where he can be the center of attention and entertain all with his silly antics. Bring everyone who will live with Pheasant, including any canine family members, to meet him at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours from 2 to 7 p.m. Thur. and Fri., noon to 5 p.m. Sat. and Sun.. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference. For more information see our Web site, www.arf.net, or call (925) 2561ARF.

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Food, fun & festivities for the whole family All Day:

Special Events:

z Cake Walk for pet supplies and treats for $1.00 a walk. Proceeds go to ARF z Pet photos in a harvest Halloween display z All day fun, fabulous prizes and free samples from the experts

Mark your calendar for

Young dogs

the Clayton Pioneer's

Just for Fun Dog Show Saturday, October 22 at noon in the parking lot at Concord Feed,

5288 Clayton Road, Concord

Prizes for Waggiest Tail z Best Vocal Performance z Most Glamorous z Most Dignified Old Dog z Ugliest Dog z Most Mysterious Heritage ... just to mention a few Special prize for Best Halloween Pooch in Costume

dogs Old

z Adopt a pet from ARF z The 4-H will be on hand with refreshments

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Funny dogs

Pumpkin Painting & Carving (The first 100 guests, age 4 and up will get a free pumpkin, donated by the Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm).

Noon “Just For Fun” Dog Show & Costume Contest (sponsored by the Clayton Pioneer, see announcem ment this page) Costumes and patterns on sale now at Concord Feed

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September 23, 2005

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“Granny” Norton killed in buggy crash

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Sarah Norton, also known as “Granny” Norton, the widow of Noah Norton, for whom Nortonville was named, died in an accident October 5, 1879 en route to deliver a baby in Clayton. Nortonville was one of the mining towns, now a ghost town, which sprang up shortly after Joel Clayton’s discovery of coal in the area. It is now part of the East Bay Parks Regional Preserve. The following article was taken from the October 11, 1879 issue of the Contra Costa Gazette:

FATAL ACCIDENT Mrs. Sarah Norton, a lady of 68 years of age, who resided at Nortonville, and was the widow of Noah Norton, from whom the town takes its name, was killed last Sunday afternoon by the runaway of a horse and the overturn of the buggy in descending the hill grade from Nortonville to Clayton. Mrs. Norton was a professional midwife and was on the way to answer a call for her services at Clayton, in company of Morgan E. James of that place, the messenger who had been sent to summon and bring her over. From the testimony given at the inquest held by Coroner Hiller the next day, it appears that James, on being requested to go for Mrs. Norton, went to James Curry’s stable, in Clayton, for a team. Mr. Curry’s son, in charge at the time, told him the teams were all out at Mr. Gay’s funeral, and that there was nothing in but two saddle horses. James then said he would take one of the two saddle horses, naming as his preference, one known as the “race mare.” When asked by the boy, “How would he get Mrs. Norton over?” he said he would either get a team and buggy there or another horse to make a team with the mare. At Nortonville, Mr. Green, the proprietor, was not at the livery stable, but was represented there by his son – a young man or boy – with whom James conferred about a team and conveyance for taking Mrs. Norton to Clayton. There being no carriage in that the boy thought fit to go out, or horse that he felt it safe to put

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lage met two young men on horseback coming out, who reported that the horse had reached the stable with part of a harness and part of a buggy shaft. This report left no room for doubt that the buggy and Mrs. Norton had been thrown down the steep declivity somewhere along the descending road grade over which the boys had just passed. And so it proved, as, on searching back, the buggy was found bottom up in

in with the one James had ridden over, the latter concluded to borrow a harness and try the trip with the horse he had ridden over, in a single buggy, that the boy told him they were not in the habit of hiring out as it was old and not in good order. Everything went well on the trip over until the first steep descent of grade towards Clayton had been passed and the comparatively level stretch along the spur ridge, before the

JANET EASTON

OLD TIMES

Ferguson, John Burke, Frank Hollowwood, J. A. Barnard, and J. W. Guy, who returned a verdict, in substance, to the effect that the deceased came to her death by being thrown from a buggy in which she was riding with one Morgan E. James, and that the accident resulting in the death of the deceased was due to the culpable negligence of the said James. It is presumed the verdict is based upon evidence that James knew and had been warned that the horse could not be trusted to drive in single harness, and was not considered safe to go in harness, even with another horse that was accustomed to going in team. History makes one curious. I am now compelled to search the birth records to find out whose baby was born in Clayton on October 5 or 6, 1879, without the aid of midwife Sarah Norton. Was Morgan E. James tried for the death of Sarah Norton?

Photo courtesy of the Clayton Historical Society

SARAH NORTON (right) with a member of the Gordon family, circa 1860.

last steep descent was reached. Here, upon remarking that she was fond of driving, James gave the reins to Mrs. Norton, and had hardly done so when the horse began to kick and James was thrown out, striking the ground so violently that he was stunned for an instant, but recovered and regained his feet just as two boys on horseback, who were riding a few rods behind the buggy, rode up to his assistance. Finding him not seriously hurt, the boys pushed on after Mrs. Norton, who had gone out of sight where the road deflected behind an intervening ridge, with the horse in a furious run when last seen. They rode nearly to Clayton without seeing anything of the horse, buggy, or Mrs. Norton, and just before reaching the vil-

the ravine at the foot of the 40° slope, some 300 feet below the road, and the mangled body of the poor old lady under it, with neck broken, left leg broken in three places, thigh dreadfully torn and a piece of the thigh bone entirely thrown out and lying apart from the limb: both arms broken, the right one below the elbow, and the left, both above and below, and the body otherwise much lacerated and bruised. The remains were carefully taken up and removed to the late residence of the deceased at Nortonville, where an inquest was held on Monday by Coroner Hiller, the following persons comprising the jury, viz: D. B. Woodruff, W. M. Reid, H. E. Ward, F. A. Saddler, John Tierney, Andrew

“What did I learn from this? ... Don't lend your race car, with no brakes, to your grandmother on a steep slope.” Janet Easton And always, history has lessons to teach. What did I learn from this? When selecting a vehicle, don’t take the advice of a teenager. Don’t lend your race car, with no brakes, to your grandmother on a steep slope. When a person is missing, enlist the help of teenagers; they are quick and have keen eyesight. The Clayton Historical Society will be commemorating the road to Nortonville, Black Diamond Way, with a brass plaque to be installed at Black Diamond Plaza later this year. Visit the Clayton Museum on Wednesday or Sunday from 2- 4 p.m. Janet Easton is a member of the Clayton Historical Society. E-mail your questions or comments to jeaston51@aol.com.

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Page B9

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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 23, 2005

Pineapple is a symbol of hospitality and abundance

LINDA WYNER

FOOD

FOR

THOUGHT

There’s a lot to learn about pineapple other than how to harness its juicy tart sweetness (or that it’s SpongeBob’s house under the sea). In fact, there’s so much, that this is the first of a two-part series on the subject. So, we all know that a pineapple is a fruit, but did you know that it is actually a berry? It forms from a hundred or more separate flowers growing on a single stem rising out of a cluster of spiky leaves. The diamond-shaped segments of the skin and the eyes are individual seedless fruits. The technical term is “sorosis,” which is used to define a fleshy fruit formed by consolidating flowers, such as the breadfruit. (“Sorosis” is also a generic term connoting a women’s society.) It takes between one and a half and two years for a pineapple to ripen into a 4 to 5 pound fruit (although some varieties grow up to 10 pounds and more). Once the fruit is removed, another fruit spike forms, flowers and the next cycle begins. Plants can be productive for up to 50 years. PINEAPPLE HISTORY There is some debate about

where the fruit originated, most likely in South America. It was spread by seafaring traders, among them Magellan and Captain Cook. Because of its popularity and ease of growing in the tropics, pineapple cultivation rapidly took root in Australia, India, Malaysia, Mexico and China. In pre-Columbian West Indies, pineapple plants were planted to form barriers because the spiky leaves deterred intruders. Nevertheless, villagers hung whole pineapples on gates as signs of hospitality and abundance. In Europe, pineapples quickly captured the public’s curiosity when Christopher Columbus brought them back

to Queen Isabella of Spain in the late fifteenth century. The Spaniards also adopted the pineapple as a symbol of hospitality, and the pineapple design was incorporated as part of their woodworking. Although easy to grow (simply plant the cut crown-the part with the leaves on top), pineap-

“W

hen you live in a place as exciting and beautiful as the Clayton Valley area, it’s hard not to be excited for each new day,” Lynne French says. “From the energy of the city to the natural setting of the country, there’s always something to keep me on the go.” Lynne brings this positive energy and love for the Clayton Valley to her long-running career as a real estate professional.

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

ples crave a tropical environment. They became a popular greenhouse plant for European aristocracy. The pineapple motif was also adopted as a symbol of hospitality in the North American colonies. Sea captains brought them home as gifts, and some say that leaving a pineapple on the porch was a way to show that the sailor had returned home. Pineapple doorknockers memorialize the tradition. The name is derived from “pina,” because Spanish explorers thought the fruit resembled a pinecone. The English added “apple” to denote its juicy nature. In Middle English, the fruit was called a pinapple. MEDICINAL PROPERTIES Pineapple (the only edible member of the bromeliad family, which includes orchids) has a lot of natural acids (citric, malic and tartaric) plus an enzyme. These closely resemble our natural digestive juices. In the past, pineapple juice was used to dissolve warts, calluses and corns, and in naturopathy to alleviate body heat and fevers. It is a natural diuretic and decongestant. Harvesting a ripe pineapple is very important since immature fruit are toxic—they can cause severe throat irritation, vomiting and diarrhea. The tannins in the skin can cause a rash, so some people—and almost all harvesters—wear gloves for protection. THE MODERN PINEAPPLE Pineapple consumption is increasing constantly due to an abundant supply from Costa

PINEAPPLE SALSA

Rica, Thailand, and the Caribbean. In our stores, we can buy fresh Smooth Cayennes, the Red Spanish and occasionally the Sugar Loaf— which grows up to 10 pounds. More recently, Del Monte’s

“Sea captains brought them home as gifts, and some say that leaving a pineapple on the porch was a way to show that the sailor had returned home.” Linda Wyner “Gold” has come to market with a very sweet flavor accentuated by a hint of coconut.

Always focused on your needs throughout your home purchase or sale, she does whatever it takes to help you make the most of your opportunities. With Lynne and her team as your guides, you can Discover the Possibilities in Clayton Valley real estate. Her intimate knowledge of the area and dedication to your goals ensure your success when buying or selling a home. Give her a call today!

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Pineapples rank third to applesauce and peaches as the most popular canned fruit in America. Avoid the fate of King Louis XIV of France, who apparently, in his eagerness to try the fruit, bit into it without peeling it first and cut his mouth on the sharp skin. The preferred way to prepare pineapple is to use a sharp knife. Cut the crown (top) off of the pineapple and slice off the hard skin. The dark eyes that can be seen in the flesh of the pineapple are the old buds from the flower. They should be cut out and discarded. Also, trim the flesh away from the fibrous core. We’ll look at the pineapple industry in Hawaii and some tempting recipes next time. Until then, let’s see if a little

pineapple salsa on oven-roasted salmon or pork tenderloin can whet your appetite: PINEAPPLE SALSA 1 c chopped fresh pineapple 1-3 tsp minced jalapeño (to taste) ½ tsp red pepper flakes (to taste) 1 Tbsp minced cilantro 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp rice wine (or white) vinegar Combine ingredients and allow to mellow at room temperature for 15 minutes. Serve with roasted meat or fish. Linda Wyner is an attorney in Walnut Creek by day, and an accomplished chef and “foodie” by choice. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com