SEP 9 Clayton Pioneer 2016 by Pioneer Publishers

IT’S YOUR PAPER

www.claytonpioneer.com

September 9, 2016

925.672.0500

Downtown development key issue in City Council race BEV BRITTON Clayton Pioneer

Enhancing city revenue through responsible downtown development is a top priority for the four candidates running for the Clayton City Council on Nov. 8. Tuija Catalano and Allen Lampo join incumbents Jim Diaz and Julie Pierce in the race for three seats. Current Mayor Howard Geller has decided not to run again, citing the desire to travel and spend

time with family. Pierce serves on numerous local and regional committees, including the Contra Costa Transportation Authority and the Association of Bay Area Governments. She is a longtime member of the Clayton Business and Community Association (CBCA) and secretary of the Clayton Historical Society. Pierce co-chairs the annual July 4th parade and is an integral part of the Concerts in the Grove team.

See Council, page 9

TUIJA CATALANO

JIM DIAZ

ALLEN LAMPO

JULIE PIERCE

New marker details history of Keller Ranch house

Photo courtesy of the Clayton Historical Society

THIS PHOTO OF THE KELLER RANCH HOUSE, WAS TAKEN IN THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY, not long after the mission-style house was completed. The Clayton Historical Society will place a monument marking the historical significance of the home on Sat., Oct. 8 at 4 p.m.

A new monument will further preserve Clayton’s historic Keller Ranch House by recognizing its archaeological and cultural importance. The local chapter of E Vitus Clampus will do the heavy work of installing the monument near the Cardinet Trail, so it can be seen from the bridge behind the library and from the trail. The Clayton Historical Society will dedicate it at 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8. The marker details the site’s historical significance, dating back to as early as 2000 BC – when the area was home to the Volvon Miwok Native Americans. When settlers arrived in the 1800s, they discovered many artifacts. The land on which the house sits may have been a part of Rancho Del Diablo, a Mexican land grant. It was subse-

Tails of Gray shines spotlight on senior dogs JENNIFER LEISCHER Correspondent

TAILS OF GRAY FOUNDER, STEPHANIE MEISSNER, snuggles with Cynthia, an aging, blind terrier mix that rescuers found caught in a fence. Cynthia is currently recovering in Meissner’s care, but will soon be placed in a permanent home.

An accident that required Stephanie Meissner to adopt a more inactive lifestyle didn’t slow her passion for dog rescue. It merely reinforced her focus on senior dogs, who also move at a more leisurely pace. The Clayton resident founded the non-profit Tails of Gray in 2015 to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abandoned senior dogs. In 2003, a life-changing accident caused permanent damage to the left side of her body. During this time, the previously active and athletic Meissner was a foster parent for a dog from Muttville Senior Dog Rescue in San Francisco. “I felt as if I had a strong connection with the senior

What’s Inside

Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Community Calendar . . . . .15 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 School News . . . . . . . . . . . .8

HOWARD GELLER

MAYOR’S CORNER

dogs from Muttville,” she recalls. “Because of my accident, the dogs and I shared a common bond.” The life-long animal lover has always been involved with dog rescue, an affinity she shares with her daughter Emily. But she notes that rescuing senior dogs is not an endeavor for the delicate at heart. “Some of the dogs that have been rescued have very sad stories, from starvation and neglect to abuse and abandonment,” Meissner reports. Regardless of breed or potential health-care issues, Tails of Gray vows to rehabilitate the dogs they rescue through socialization. The non-profit assumes all financial responsibility for necessary medical treatments as long as the animal requires care.

The ultimate reward for Meissner, and her sweet furry friends, is a permanent, loving and safe home that allows the dogs to thrive. Kevin Klein, once a stray Chihuahua mix, is currently selling a piece of artwork through the Tails of Gray website. It’s a perfect testament that it’s never too late to start a new chapter in life. Cynthia, a Terrier mix who is living with Meissner, isn’t much for artwork. But she is living proof that one’s life can be changed for the better almost instantly. Contra Costa Animal services found Cynthia intertwined in a fence, unable to move. She was starving and is also blind.

For a taste of Bavaria, Clayton’s Oktoberfest is the place to be. Mark your calendars for Sept. 30-Oct. 2 for the Clayton Business & Community Association’s most attended weekend event. Chaired by Mary Ann Lawrence and Marilyn Schmidt, aided by many volunteers, this event is sure to please.

The family fun begins on Friday night, Sept. 30, with the opening of the carnival. Get tickets early and save some money. Head to Skipolini’s, Ed’s Mudville Grill, the Royal Rooster or Hair’s the Place after Sept. 14 and until 4 p.m. opening day for deeply discounted carnival tickets. The carnival will be open 4-10 p.m.

See Tails, page 4

quently owned by Clayton’s founder, Joel Clayton. Under the Homestead Act, Clayton acquired 480 acres between 1862 and 1872 and planted grapes. After Clayton died in 1872, vintner Paul DeMartini acquired 145 acres of the southwestern Clayton Ranch and built the DeMartini Winery – now Clayton City Hall. In the early 1900s, Charles Henry “Harry” Keller purchased the remainder of the Clayton Ranch and named it Liberty Ranch in honor of his wife, Elodia Liberty. During Prohibition, the vineyard converted to ranchland. The Keller Ranch House,

named Casa Del Sierra, was completed in 1913. It had a Mission style home, with Craftsman elements. The ranch included magnificent gardens, a fish pond, large barns and cattle yards. Harry Keller operated the ranch until his death in 1940. Elodia maintained a life estate there until her death in 1954. Previously, they had lived in a house they built on Galindo Street in Concord, and that is now a Concord historical house. The State Historical Resource Commission determined the Keller House to be

See Keller, page 7

We Remember

It’s a bittersweet sight, those 343 little flags waving in the breeze on the lawn of Station 11. They signal the approaching anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Each flag memorializes a firefighter lost in the 9/11 attack. On Sunday morning, Sept. 11 at 10 a.m., Station 11 will host a brief ceremony in observance of the anniversary with words from Retired Battalion Chief Dave George, Clayton’s vice mayor, Jim Diaz and CCFPD Fire chief, Jeff Carman. The program will last about 30 minutes and will conclude with the somber Final Alarm Bell Ringing Ceremony. There will be limited seating for seniors and the disabled. Station 11 will be open for tours following the program.

Always popular Oktoberfest ushers in fall Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Dust off your lederhosen and dance the “Chicken Dance” with the award-winning band, the Internationals. Or sample great German sausages, schnitzel, Hofbrau beers, schnapps and California wines. The event also features 50 vendor booths, street performances

and Bavarian dancing throughout the day. Stop by at noon Saturday to experience the ceremonial parade into the big tent for the tapping of the keg, which officially signals the opening of the event. No matter your age, Oktoberfest promises some-

See Mayor, page 9

Postal Customer ECRWSS

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190

Around Town

Page 2

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 9, 2016

Audi R8 drives car enthusiast’s passion NAYEEM QURESHI Special to the Pioneer

My greatest joy is taking my R8, Audi’s flagship supercar, to events where I can share it with families. Children often come up to me to tell me that I am driving their dream car. They are thrilled when I invite them to take pictures and sit in the car. Older children often ask

Relay raises more than $140,000

With five years’ experience, the Clayton Relay for Life committee knows how to run a successful fundraiser. The 2016 Relay held at Mt. Diablo Elementary is the biggest success yet. Post-event donations will push the total raised to over $140,000 for cancer research. The Clayton Relay is one of the largest fundraisers in California. The efforts began last summer with the Roundup for Relay BBQ and dance at the Easley Ranch, a sold-out event for 500 and wrapped up with the 24hour relay on Aug. 14. Pictured from left are Jessica Ruiz, ACS representative with committee members Karen Zaitz, Sydney Alcock, Gigi Pishny, Gail Ballard, Michelle Treshler, Pat Middendorf (at the mic), Nancy Salmon and Michele Hill. “We were all a little teary after Pat’s emotional speech,” said Hill, one of the tri-chairs of the event.

Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell since 1979

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

Better Homes BRE#00933393

me how I can afford such an amazing car. This gives me the opportunity to reinforce the importance of education, hard work and setting goals. Earlier this year, I cofounded Quattro Crew on the core principles of mutual respect, tolerance, safety and consideration. Quattro Crew promotes safe and fun activities within the Audi owner community that involve the entire family. This includes charity events, group drives, picnics and photo shoots. In a short time, we have grown to 200-plus members. Not everyone who applies for membership is approved. We do our due diligence, including looking at online profiles to see if they fit our strict criteria. We have members from varying backgrounds, including the Clayton Police Department. On Aug. 19, I entered my R8 in a Concours at Legends of the Autobahn in Monterey. It took first place in the Audi Sports Class. Six judges evaluated the cars on several factors, such as presentation, cleanliness – including the engine bay, wheels, interior and configuration. My car has a V10 engine that produces 525 HP. The R8 goes 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds and is capable of reaching speeds in excess of 200 mph. I will show it again in the Danville Concours D’Elegance Sept. 18. The event raises awareness and funds for the Parkinson’s Foundation in conjunction with the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Qureshi is a 16-year Clayton resident and “recovering” Wall Street executive. For more information on Quattro Crew, call 415407-9366.

Rarely Available Diablo Village! Walk to town! 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, approx. 2172sf & attached 2 car garage. Peaceful court setting, backs to open space!

cell: (925) 348-5700 georgevujnovich@sbcglobal.net

$729,000

www.georgevujnovich.com

Jennifer Stojanovich Broker-Associate

Lifelong Clayton/Concord Resident

(925) 567-6170 jenstojanovich@yahoo.com

www.jenniferstojanovich.com

5799 Pepperridge Wy – Concord

Spectacular Custom Home tucked away in an irreplaceable setting backing to open space @ the top of Davis Ridge! 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3305sf & 3 car garage! Private Oasis lot is approx. .56 acres! $1,095,000

5450 Concord Blvd. N1, – Concord

G P EN DI N

Realtor-Associate Clayton Residents

(925) 890-4701

Cal BRE #01222762

Clayton Market Update provided by Better Homes Realty

407 Wawona Lane – Clayton

homesbydianehayes.com ADDRESS

PRICE

207 Bigelow St . . . . . . . . . . . $795,000 106 El Portal Pl . . . . . . . . . . $882,000 215 El Pueblo Pl . . . . . . . . . $797,000 325 Mt. Palomar . . . . . . . . . $950,000 1007 Panadero Way . . . . . . $629,000 5866 Caulfield Dr . . . . . . . . . $840,000 1254 Shell Cir . . . . . . . . . . . $560,000

Charming Ground Floor Unit! 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, approx. 902sf. Kitchen with tile counters and newer appliances. Hardwood floors in living room and dining area. Updated bath! $259,000

SOLD

Dianemariehayes25@yahoo.com

Residents on Morgan Territory Rd. may well have seen this ghostly looking turkey hanging around lately. It is not an apparition. Elaine Friedman snapped this photo in her front yard. The bird is pale in color due to a partial loss of pigmentation. It is termed leucistic rather than albino, she explains.

201 Prospector Pl. – Clayton

(925) 672-4433

Diane and Bill Hayes

Ghost Gobbler

Sensational Rarely Available “Belvedere model” in Peacock Creek at Oakhurst Country Club! The home you have been waiting for! This home has it all! Upgraded kitchen & baths, panoramic views, rare 4 car garage, spectacular large private back yard with pool, spa & waterfall. Approx. 4076sf, 5 bedrooms + den & 3.5 baths! A 10+++ $1,295,000

Broker, Clayton Resident

Cal BRE #01446062

With pulses racing and adrenalin pumping, 7-year olds Katie Beuchter (car 73) and Austin Kirkham (police car) are off the ramp at the Clayton Labor Day Derby last Saturday. More than 250 kids took their turn racing down Main Street, two at a time, most of them triumphantly crossing the finish line. Others, not so much. A midrace crash into the hay bales lining the route sent some of the little wooden race cars to the pit for quick repairs. The cars are each sponsored by a local business or individual and the kids race free. The Derby, produced by the Clayton Community Church is just one part of the 13th annual event which includes a Classic Car Show featuring over 200 cars. sponsors of this year’s event include Redwood painting, Clayton Business and Community Association, Big O Tires of Concord and Jim’s California Auto Body, Inc.

1127 Peacock Creek Dr – Clayton

George Vujnovich,

Cal BRE #00933393

Labor Day Derby

5472 Roundtree Pl. #E, Concord

8015 Kelok Way – Clayton

Spectacular "Serenade model" in Falcon Ridge at Oakhurst Country Club 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, plus den. 2843sf with an attached 3 car garage. 4th bedroom can be bonus room. Gourmet kitchen opens to family room with upgraded river rock faced fireplace. Huge lot offers trellis covered patio and built in BBQ. $899,000

3037 Windmill Cyn. Dr.–Clayton

Rarely Available Single Story “Clayton model” in Windmill Canyon at Oakhurst Country Club! Backing to open space! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approx. 1493sf, inside laundry & two car garage. New carpet! $625,000

8 Malibu Court – Clayton

Sharp Updated Single Story on a Court! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2010sf & inside laundry. Granite kitchen, engineered hardwood floors, crown moulding, deco paint & new carpet are just some of the many upgrades! Private low maintenance lot features “Heavenly Greens” lawn & Mt. Diablo views! $749,000

1197 Shell Lane – Clayton

PE N DI N G

$845,000

$310,000

5450 Concord Blvd., #A8, Concord $245,000

. . . . .2325 . . . . .2428 . . . . .2400 . . . . .3211 . . . . .1520 . . . . .2324 . . . . .1709

BED/BATH SALE DATE ADDRESS

. . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .8/29/16 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .8/29/16 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .8/26/16 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . .8/19/16 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . .8/18/16 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .8/16/16 . . . . . .3/3 . . . . . . .8/15/16

PRICE

5227 Keller Ridge Dr . . . . . . $875,000 1500 El Camino . . . . . . . . . $660,000 209 El Pueblo Pl . . . . . . . . . $840,000 407 Wawona Ln . . . . . . . . . . $845,000 1376 Shell Ln . . . . . . . . . . . . $608,000 1123 Whispering Pines Rd. . $830,000

. . . . .2843 . . . . .1730 . . . . .2857 . . . . .2505 . . . . .1709 . . . . .2617

Chaparral Springs at Oakhurst Country Club! Popular “Manzanita” model featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 1355sf with inside laundry & 2 car garage! Walk to downtown!

$519,000

BED/BATH SALE DATE

. . . . . .4/3 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . .3/3 . . . . . .4/3

. . . . . . .8/12/16 . . . . . . .8/11/16 . . . . . . .8/11/16 . . . . . . .8/10/16 . . . . . . . .8/9/16 . . . . . . . .8/5/16

September 9, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 3

Around Crossroads Covenant Church celebrates 40 years of ministry Town Pioneer travels

remaining funds were wired to Crossroads by a farmer businessman from Minnesota. “You convinced me this is God’s will. We can’t lose the property.” His banker thought he was crazy.

In 1980, the small church had plans to build a $785,000 multipurpose building, but couldn’t obtain the financing. So, in the spirit of “The Little Engine That Could,” the congregation became its own general contractor, constructing the facility for $365,000 with investment from its parent National Covenant Properties and much volunteer labor. A Christian education wing was added in 1994. Over the years, many members have gone on to serve in the pastorate across the United States and as missionaries outside of the country. The congregation is still 125 members strong and many other organizations meet at the facility.

Clayton Valley five-star novella that has a ty Social Services for 33 years. Woman’s Club touch of Clayton woven into She later moved to Clayton and The Clayton Valley “Dream On, Dancing Queen.” simply fell in love with the Woman’s Club invites guests to Laube was born in Oakland area. attend their monthly meeting and graduated from the UniJoin the Clayton Valley Oakhurst resident, Carmel on Oct. 11 to hear Chloe versity of California, Berkeley. Woman’s Club for their Fall Wilcox took her 89-year-old Laube share a glimpse of her She worked at Alameda CounFundraiser from 4 – 6:30 p.m. mother to Quebec City for a six-day vacation this summer. The two toured Parliament, visited Montmorency Falls and CBCA walked the old town. Sometimes, you can be too successful. “My mother loved it and That was the upshot of the report on the she got to speak some Aug. 6 Rib Cook-Off in Clayton presented by French,” Carmel said.l Steve Pierce at the Aug. 25 meeting of the Carmel is shown here in Clayton Business and Community AssociaOld Quebec with the Hotel tion at Oakhurst Country Club. Chateau Frontenac in the The newly-formatted barbecue event background. drew professional teams to Clayton from as far away as Reno to compete under the auspices of the Kansas City Barbecue Society. Pierce reported that his barbecue committee What’s happening had planned for 3,000 people to attend. Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer around town? Instead, the all-day event drew over 4,700 KCBS BBQ experts held classes throughPlease send news of your guests. The result – they ran out of food. out the day in proper BBQ techniques engagements, weddings, Pierce promised that it wouldn’t happen births and special celeagain. Plans are already in place for next year’s greasy fingered. He projected 2017 attenbrations along with a cook-off to stock up on many more ribs, so dance to top 6,000. high-resolution photo to that everyone can go home filled up and Gary Carr Tamara@Clayton-

on Nov. 6 at Diamond Terrace in Clayton. The club presents a delightful afternoon of music, appetizers and desserts with Johnny Rockit and Candy Wrapper (Bill and Shirley McQuiston) singing Broadway hits of the 1940s and 1950s, plus hits from Elvis and Neil Diamond. Bill has performed with “Beach Blanket Babylon” in San Francisco and the couple has incorporated their strong background in musical theater to create an outstanding musical revue. They have been performing together since 1981. The Clayton Valley Woman’s Club started in 1973 and is dedicated to meeting the needs of the community. New members are always welcome. The club meets at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 5555 Clayton Road, Clayton. For regular meeting information, call Linda at 482-

Quebec, Canada

STEVE STEWART Special to the Pioneer

In June 1976, a home bible study group of 12 men and women held a worship service in the Farm Bureau Hall. 125 people attended that first service. Shortly after its first service, the church moved to temporary quarters on West Street and became part of the National Covenant ministries. 59 members signed the charter and 163 attended services on Sept. 26, 1976. They started looking for a permanent home. The property at the crossroads of Concord Blvd. and Kirker Pass Rd.

was available and on the advice of the leadership of the Evangelical Covenant Church, the church made an offer. After three months of negotiation, the sale price was set and with just twelve hours to spare, the

Club News

Pioneer.com

c Pri

Concord

$699,980

Canyon Creek — Absolutely gorgeous yards & gardens with custom pool, waterfall and spa. 4 bedroom, 3 bath home with numerous upgrades. Light & Airy with energy saving shutters, newer carpet and fresh paint. Gourmet kitchen, family room with fireplace and living room with vaulted ceiling. Peaceful court location just minutes to town

u ed

Brentwood

$998,000

Trilogy at the Vineyards — 2,751 sq ft, Rafael model with upgrades galore. 2 bedrooms + office & 2.5 baths. 18 foot ceilings, plantation shutters, dark hardwood flooring and central vac. Nearly 1/3 acre property with outdoor kitchen, covered patio and 2.5 car garage on a cul-de-sac. Absolutely stunning!

Concord

$569,000

Diablo Estates — Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with hardwood floors and crown molding. Family room with wood beamed ceiling and built in book shelves, living room with fireplace, updated kitchen and inside laundry room. Great yard with fruit trees, RV parking and patio.

$498,000

www.IngeYarborough.withwre.com Cal BRE# 01309306

Clayton

$789,980

Easley Estates — Updated 4 bed, 2.5 bath home on corner lot. Bright open floor plan with updated kitchen featuring granite counters, maple cabinets, & recessed lights. Formal living/dining rooms plus beautiful fireplace & slider in family room. Fresh paint, newer carpets. Huge RV parking! Heather Gray (925) 765-3822 RealEstatebyHeather.com Cal BRE#01329100

Lynne & Sylvia offer free staging on ALL LISTINGS

Concord

$539,980

Farm Bureau — Charming farmhouse with a country feel. Sunroom entry, living room with fire place & formal dining area. Two bedrooms down, master suite up! Sunny kitchen with gas stove. French doors & hardwoods. Large lot with green house & garden, and patio. 2 car detached garage. Heather Gray (925) 765-3822 RealEstatebyHeather.com Cal BRE#01329100

Bill and Shirley McQuiston perform at the Fall Fundraiser for the Clayton Valley Woman’s Club.

0807 or Michele 672-6434. The fundraiser is $25. Reservations are limited; contact Aleta Huck at 672-9448. Proceeds from the fundraiser go to selected community charities and a scholarship. Diamond Terrace is at 6401 Center St., Clayton. For more information, go to claytonvalleywomansclub.org.

ing

d en

Concord

Rossmoor – Light-filled end unit in quiet, but central location. Exquisitely remodeled with 2 master suites and all the bells & whistles: from new front door and dual pane sliders to brand new chef's kitchen. Granite, pull-outs & SS appliances, an electric FP w/thermostat & a built-in desk. Inge Yarborough, (925) 766-6896

Crossroads Covenant Church is at 5353 Concord Blvd., Concord. For more information, go to crossroadschurchweb.org.

$595,000

Garaventa Oaks — Priced to sell 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in desirable neighborhood. Family room with cathedral ceiling, wet bar and fireplace. Updated, eat in kitchen with garden window and stainless appliances. Formal living and inside laundry rooms. Call for more info.

Walnut Creek

Crossroads’ vision for the years ahead is “Igniting and advancing personal relationship with Jesus, leaving a legacy of disciples in our wake.” Crossroads Covenant Church in Concord welcomes all who wish to attend one or both celebrations of their 40 years. On Sept. 25, at 10:30 a.m. Sunday morning services will be with former pastor Kenneth P. Carlson and on Oct. 2 at 10:30 a.m. with former pastor Gregory E. Asimakoupoulos.

din

n Pe

Clayton

$619,000

Stranahan — Open, light filled floor plan including 3 beds adn 2.5 baths. Large kitchen w/island and breakfast bar plus dining room. Family room w/wood burning fireplace. Oversized bedrooms. New landscape with large lawn area & patio. Backs to small park. Kelly McDougall (925) 787-0448 KellyMcDougall.com Cal BRE#01156462

Assisting More Buyers & Sellers than Anyone Else* *Statistics based on Clayton/Concord and Contra Costa County Closed sales by volume (1/2014-12/31/2014). Data by Maxebrdi

"Like" us on

- Windermere Clayton!

Page 4

Tails of Gray, from page 1

It took her a good amount of time to readjust from neglect to being cared for and loved. Meissner hopes Cynthia will have a permanent home soon. “We need two things to keep

MANY TAILS OF GRAY SENIORS are accomplished artists. Kevin Klein, a 10-year-old Chihuahua recently completed True 2 B Blue, which is currently for sale. Go to tailsofgray.org to buy Kevin’s masterpiece or to see other works. All proceeds benefit Tails of Gray.

this organization moving forward: donations and foster homes for our senior dogs,” Meissner says. She doesn’t mince words when talking about the business side of Tails of Gray. Many of the senior dogs rescued are in need of medication for minor ailments while others require “Fos-pice” care – foster homes that provide end-of-life care so the dogs don’t have to spend their final days in an animal shelter. Tails of Gray relies on regular and one-time donors, online fundraisers and the precious artwork the dogs create and sell. Eventually, Meissner will be able to apply for a financial grant as Tails of Gray continues to flourish. For more information on how to donate or become a foster home, visit tailsofgray.org.

www.LeighKlockHomes.com NEW LISTING

Premium view lot Clayton Rancher with Mt Diablo State Park as your backyard! This immaculate 3 bed, 2 bath home boasts amazing curb appeal with drought tolerant front landscaping, inviting drive with custom pavers & new roof in 2015. Entertain under your pergola taking in the Mt Diablo View. Offered at $724,900 www.15ElMolinoDrive.com

g Pendinle ip lt Mu Offers

Turn Key 4 bed, 2.5 bath, 2106 sq ft home in Bay Point. Chef's kitchen with granite, spa-inspired master bath updated 2015. Offered at $469,000 www.1034SaintRaphaelDr.com

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Library offers Second Chance for those struggling with English KARA NAVOLIO Correspondent

Many of us take the ability to read and write English for granted. But it doesn’t come easy for students at Project Second Chance. The Contra Costa County Library program offers tutoring to adults over the age of 16 who struggle to read and write. The students typically fall into two groups: Those whose primary language is English but they cannot read or write above the 6thgrade level, often due to dyslexia. And those whose native language is not English. They are conversational in English but want to improve their reading and writing in English.

COMING SOON

925.212.5593

This beautifully updated Dana Hills home with ideal end of court location boasts a desirable floor plan with 5 bedrooms and 3 baths, including one full bath and bedroom on first level. This home also offers a fabulous oversized lot with Mt. Diablo views, detached office/bonus room, and 3 car garage. Call for details.

SOLD

Leigh Klock, Realtor

Keller Ridge Beauty 4 bedroom 2.5 baths. Gourmet kitchen with granite counters. Court location with pool and spa. Adjacent to open space. Offered at $849,000

Senior Real Estate Specialist Accredited Staging Professional CalBRE# 01874255

September 9, 2016

Leigh@LeighKlock.com

Hollie Guillory Delivers You’ll Love It. Guaranteed

If you purchase your next home with Hollie Guillory, move in, and if you don’t absolutely love it, Hollie will re-sell it for FREE*. I’m confident that working with me you’ll find the Perfect Home for you. That’s why I’m willing to work for FREE* if your new home isn’t everything you expected it to be. It’s Guaranteed. *For up to six months after close. There may be an obligation to pay a buyer’s agent commission and other closing costs, but you will pay Hollie nothing!

Local. Global. Luxury.

Hollie Guillory Broker Associate License #01326295

925.382.8729

Homesbyhollie.com

1646 N. California Blvd.,STE. 101 Walnut Creek, CA 94596

These adults, typically between age 30 and 60, may struggle with filling out job applications, reading medicine labels, taking tests, reading road signs, advancing in their careers and reading to their children or grandchildren. According to program manager and Clayton resident, Laura Seaholm, the challenge is letting them know about this free, confidential program.

DANIEL KENNEDY HAS STRUGGLED WITH DYSLEXIA his entire life. Encouraged by his wife and family, he entered the Literacy GAINING A SENSE OF PRIDE Council’s Project 2nd Chance tutoring program. Here he Daniel Kennedy of Concord works on phonetics with senior library literacy assistant, has been a regular student of the Megan Brown. program since 2011. His dyslexia

was never addressed during his youth, because he had to change schools while bouncing between foster homes in Los Angles and Vallejo. He adapted by memorizing everything, such as driving signs. He could watch someone repair something once and immediately copy it. With the program’s help, he is now reading at a 4th- or 5thgrade level. His goals are to pass the GED (high school equivalency exam) and advance at work. Project Second Chance has already improved his confidence and allowed him to be able to read to his grandchildren. “The program has made my life easier and given me a sense of pride,” he says. His reading progress has paid off in improved employment opportunities, he says. “I have a good job with Sierra Pacific, now. And I own a home and just bought a new truck.” Lucy Edwards, also of Concord and a three-year student in the program, feels similar to Kennedy. “The program has helped me with the skills of reading, writing and spelling, but also it has helped me have more confidence and not to feel ashamed,” Edwards says. “I know now that I can accom-

plish my goals if I work hard dents and tutors to discuss the book. The club creates a comenough.” munity around the concept of FOSTERING A JOY OF BOOKS reading for pleasure and conStudents meet with volunteer necting with others. tutors twice a week for 90 minutes each time, usually at one of ALWAYS A NEED FOR MORE VOLUNTEERS the county’s libraries. Vicky According to Seaholm, the DeYoung of Walnut Creek, a tutor for two years, has always program has served 5,600 stubeen an avid reader and book dents with 3,500 tutors since its club member. She knew that inception in 1984. It is funded by when she retired she wanted to the county, with some assistance from the state and local get involved in literacy. After the 14-hour training, fundraisers. The next fundraisshe began working with Sandra ing event, “A Mysterious Author S. to use the Wilson Method for Affair” featuring mystery writers teaching those with dyslexia. Cara Black, David Corbett, and Although the program asks vol- Sophie Littlefield, will be held on unteers for a one-year commit- October 26. “We want to use as many ment, DeYoung wants to keep going because of the growth she ways as we can to reach out to the people in the community has seen in Sandra. “It’s the most rewarding who can benefit from the provolunteer work I’ve ever gram, as well as to those who done,” explains DeYoung. may interested in volunteering to “Sandra can now write a gro- tutor,” Seaholm notes. DeYoung summarizes: “I cery list, read books and is working on composing emails can’t change the whole world, and using the computer. Her but I can change the world for confidence has really grown.” one person.” The next volunteer training is The two also participate in the Project Second Chance scheduled for January 25, 28 and Book Club. They recently read February 4 (one evening and two Sign up at “Charlotte’s Web” together Saturdays). and gathered with other stu- ccclib.org/psc.

September 9, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 5

Smaller red-shouldered hawks worth watching for

We specialize in educating you to improve and maintain your wellness

STACI HOBBET

ON THE MOUNTAIN

There are so many redtailed hawks around Mt. Diablo State Park that many respond to a sighting with “Ho-hum, another red-tail.” But there are also redshouldered hawks in our midst. The beautiful, smaller hawk is well worth some effort to spot. Though red-shouldered and red-tailed hawks are about the same length, the more common red-tail is stouter and weighs up to three pounds. The red-shouldered hawk is delicate, typically weighing just more than one pound. Both go about their business in the daytime, overlapping in the habitats they haunt but preferring different prey. The red-shouldered hawk hunts primarily from perches, such as fence posts and rooftops, while the red-tail spends more time cruising. When it does perch-hunt, the red-tail seeks loftier viewpoints like the tops of telephone poles. When hunting larger prey, it makes sense to see more of the landscape from a higher altitude. But red-shouldered hawks need the close proximity of water and oak woodlands, a

habitat like the northern meadows of Mitchell Canyon. They go for an I-will-eat-anything assortment of smaller critters, terrestrial, aerial and aquatic. The red-tail isn’t so tied to water or wetlands, and it doesn’t often frequent the drainages of creeks or nearby ponds. It’s awkward for the red-tail to fly through trees, but the red-shouldered hawk can cut neat corners – allowing it to forage along Mitchell Creek, for instance. It gobbles down toads, frogs, snakes, insects, mice, voles, gophers, small birds, nestlings and eggs. A generalist, you might say, but one with an iron stomach. The red-tail is a generalist too, but it wants a Big Mac not a bunch of fussy little tapas. It wants rabbits, hares, large songbirds and will even take small dogs and slow cats, as many pet owners have been forced to learn. Ground squirrels are the red-tails’ Big Mac. Weighing up to 1½ pounds, the squirrels are

too big for the more diminutive red-shouldered hawks to handle. It’s not only that a redshouldered hawk would have trouble flying away with such a heavy load, but this hawk is such a lightweight, it can’t strike with the same force as a red-tail. If you can’t immobilize your prey with a single hit, you may be attacked yourself. Ground squirrels, if given a chance, will fight viciously to avoid becoming dinner. A hawk injured seriously by its prey is in big trouble of becoming prey to other predators. Go hawking. Take a stroll through the northern meadows of the park with binoculars and a bird guide. Look for a small hawk with white-speckled wings that’s sitting on a fence post or a low snag, and say hi.

• We boast one of the most comprehensive supplement departments in Northern California. • Our vast bulk foods section includes over 700 items — nuts, grains, spices, herbs, and more.

Staci Hobbet is a docent with the Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association. You can send email to her at anastasiahobbet@gmail.com

Coldwell Banker San Francisco Bay Area Top 100 Agent & International President's Circle Award Recipient 45 El Molino Drive

• Locally owned and operated for 39 years

VIEWS

Gorgeous view home with fabulous updates throughout — Custom country kitchen featured on ‘Clayton Kitchen Tour’! 5 bedrooms/2.5 remodeled baths, sparkling pool, spa, pool house, rv/boat pkg/sport area. Best views of Mt. Diablo! Offered at $848,888

Remodeled 585 Mt. Olivet Place

REMODELED

PICTURE PERFECT! Elegant Dana Hills home features 4 bedrooms and 3 NEW remodeled baths! Impressive Master Suite, huge walk-in closet & views! One bed/bath downstairs tucked away for privacy. Large living room w/vaulted ceilings, large dining room and chef’s pantry! Backs to open space. Offered at $789,500

305 Mountaire Parkway

PENDING

Spectacular Custom Estate Property! Nestled on a private beautifully landscaped lane, this gorgeous single-level 3,500 sf home with 5 bedrooms/3 baths also features an ADDITIONAL 2,300 sf pristine shop w/full bath, built-ins & more! www.1736ViaDelVerdes.com Offered at $1,250,000

17 Capistrano Court

SAVE THE DATE!

STEPHANIE LOPEZ

ASP Stager@ / Relocation Specialist

925.305.9099

www.HousesbyStephanie.com Realtor®, BRE#01370548

Find us on

Like us on

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 am-8 pm Saturday 9 am-7 pm Sunday 10 am-7 pm

www.Harvesthouse.com

2395 Monument Blvd., Concord (925) 676-2305 www.Harvesthouse.com

15% off any Grocery Purchase

Harvest House Coupon

Present this coupon in store to receive 15% off your grocery purchase. Excludes sale items, books and cosmetics. Offer not to be combined with other coupons or discount offers. Expires Sept. 30, 2016.

SOLD

Regency’s Top Property Choice — 5 bedrooms / 2.5 baths, Stunning Gourmet kitchen with slab, stainless, & top drawer cabinetry! Master boasts light wonderful atrium addition! Hardwood floors, updated baths, ++ Perfect location adjacent to open space w/ pool, garden play area and more! Offered at $875,000

Annual Dana Hills Garage Sale, Oct. 1 –

2395 Monument Blvd. Concord (925) 676-2305

NEW

Dana Hills Single Level Beauty! PRICE 4 generous bedrooms 2 gorgeous baths w/ top of the line appointments on a level near .25 acre VIEW lot! Remodeled Tip to Toe w/ sleek home chef kitchen, new wide plank flooring and carpets, fresh paint, insulated tile roof, newer HVAC and more. Enjoy STRAIGHT AHEAD views of Mt. Diablo! www.305MountaireParkway.com Fantastic Price $869,950

1736 Via Del Verdes

Harvest House

2395 Monument Blvd., Concord (925) 676-2305 www.Harvesthouse.com

Brought to you by the Clayton Pioneer.

25% off

any Supplement Purchase

Harvest House Coupon

Present this coupon in store to receive 25% off your supplement purchase. Excludes sale items, books and cosmetics. Offer not to be combined with other coupons or discount offers. Expires Sept. 30, 2016. Brought to you by the Clayton Pioneer.

Page 6

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Clayton Fair Properties For Lease

Concord – Commercial Offices Active business complex featuring a variety of commercial businesses. Well maintained with friendly atmosphere. Excellent location including ample parking. Contact Maureen (925)

685-0324

Joe Ronco/Owner 925-872-3049 jaroncoconstruction.com

School traffic, park damage and local homeless are critical issues School has started, and vehicle traffic has increased around the school campuses. Please use caution around the schools, especially around drop-off and pick-up times. Allow yourself plenty of time when dropping off your children and always drive defensively. My officers will be focusing some time in these areas so that the children are safe and the drivers are compliant. The Grove Park is a wonderful place for families to relax and spend time with children. Unfortunately, there has been a continual problem at the main gazebo regarding damage to the structure. The gazebo is not a play structure, yet children are often seen climbing on the structure and

35 years Clayton/ Concord resident Lic#844344

Colleen Geraghty Cell Phone

Financial Professional Associate

For products and services that can help form the 925-305-0321 foundation of your financial life, turn to Prudential.

Proud Concord resident since 1968

• LIFE • INVESTMENTS** • ANNUITIES • LONG TERM CARE* • RETIREMENT

Insurance issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ and its affiliates. Prudential, the Prudential logo, the Rock symbol and Bring Your Challenges are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc., and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. **Securities products and services are offered through Pruco Securities, LLC. *Availability varies by carrier and state. CA Insurance License #0I89925 0221354-00004-00 D4878

Clayton 5 Bedroom for only $774,900 This large home is in good condition with Granite updated Bathrooms, a 3-Car Garage, Large RV Pkng, a Parklike Yard, and a Spa and Swimming pool! Indoor Laundry Rm, Vaulted ceilings, a Pantry and a Wet-Bar, and priced to Sell!

Holbrook home home Expanded holbrook room with huge family room! Located on a quiet street, with a gourmet granite kitchen, upgraded baths, formal dining area, this home also has a 15' X 21' family room. Fireplace, forced air heat & cooling, dual pane windows, nice patio & yards and newly landscaped, drought tolerant front yard. All this for only $514,900!

Call Pete today to sell your home

The time is NOW

(925) 890-6004

Pete Laurence

Broker, Realtor, GRI DRE#00344166 A ReMax Hall of Fame Realtor

KNOWLEDGE

ReMax Real Estate–Walnut Creek office Selling Clayton & all Contra Costa

SERVICE

INTEGRITY

RESULTS

September 9, 2016

WOODY WHITLATCH WEATHER WORDS

A few days ago, our 6-yearold twin granddaughters were out in the backyard when a light breeze kicked up. The swirling wind caused several fluffy seed pods to twirl through the air. Mother Nature decided to play a game of catch with the girls, who giggled as they chased the “fluffies.” That evening, after all the fluffies were rounded up and secure in a jar on the porch, the girls noticed the clouds overhead were on the move as they marched underneath the moon. The girls had observed examples of different scales of atmospheric motion. Meteorologists define the scales of wind motion into three broad categories: microscale,

breaking pieces of wood framework. With the limited resources in the city, it becomes difficult to change works schedules to fix the damage as well as pay for repairs. The gazebo is a unique and beautiful part of the landscape at the park. Please enjoy its look and

respect the fact it is another symbol of what the city of Clayton is trying to present to its citizens. Based on calls from residents and store owners, the police have made numerous contacts with a group of homeless individuals at the Clayton Station. We have offered local services to assist them, but none of them have taken advantage of the programs. It seems they would rather take money from citizens to support their needs. We want to help them, but it needs to be through the work of county agencies, veterans groups, shelters and crisis centers. From 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Oct. 13, a program called Project Homeless Connect will be held at the Antioch Fair-

grounds. This one-day program will help connect people who are homeless, in need of medical care, substance abuse and mental health counseling, shelter and housing. If you would like to volunteer, call 925-313-7700 or email projecthomelessconnect@hsd. cccounty.us. Lastly, the phone scams are continuing. Callers identifying themselves as the IRS are still high on the list. When in doubt of a caller, please do your research before sending money. These individuals prey on the weak. Be strong and don’t be a victim.

mesoscale and macroscale. These groupings are based on both the time and space scales of the wind patterns. The smallest scale of air motion is referred to as microscale circulation. These small, and often chaotic, winds last for seconds to minutes. They are observed for distances of several feet to several miles. Because of the short space and time scales, they are nearly impossible to predict. The wind swirls that tossed fluffies around our backyard are microscale winds. Dust devils that develop in the desert are another example. Mesoscale winds last for minutes to hours and can be tracked for minutes to hours. Our local sea breeze winds are a good example of this scale of wind pattern. In the Sierra, the diurnal mountain upslope and downslope winds are classified as

mesoscale events. Other examples include thunderstorms and tornadoes. The largest circulation patterns in the earth’s lower atmosphere are known as macroscale winds. These wind patterns last days to months and have distance scales that range from hundreds to thousands of miles. One sub-category of macroscale events is known as synoptic scale. Examples include hurricanes that develop near the earth’s surface and the anticyclonic (highs) and cyclonic (lows) circulations at the jet stream level. Synoptic scale weather patterns typically last days to weeks. Planetary macroscale circulations extend around the globe and can last weeks to months. Trade winds and the jet stream are good examples of planetary scale wind patterns. Even though each scale of atmospheric wind pattern has

defined time and space bounds, there is often an interconnection between the scales. For example, the synoptic scale storms that deliver winter rains to California are embedded in planetary scale jet stream circulations. Sea breeze circulations that provide cooling to the Clayton area result when summer season high-pressure ridges weaken and allow the marine layer to expand and move inland. Watching the girls capture the fluffies made the meteorologist in me smile. It won’t be too long before Papa Woody starts explaining the different scales of motion to them. For now, I’ll just enjoy them playing catch with Mother Nature.

CHRIS WENZEL

BEHIND

THE

BADGE

Chris Wenzel is Chief of Police of Clayton. Send questions and comments to chris.wenzel@claytonpd.com or call (925) 673-7350

When it comes to wind, it’s all a matter of scale

Woody Whitlatch is a meteorologist retired from PG&E. Email your questions or comments to clayton_909@yahoo.com

Don’t let ‘Microsoft’ or other cyber attackers fool you You may have heard of people receiving a message to call Microsoft tech support because their computer is infected, and Microsoft has a tech support team ready to help. The message says to contact tech support at an 800 number provided.

The conversation goes something like this, “Hello. I’m from Microsoft, and we are here to help you because we think your computer is infected.” The caller will further explain that he needs access to your computer. If you allow it, you have just become a victim of cyber crime. Just stop and think: Why would Microsoft want to talk to you? That would be like the president of the United States calling to ask for your opinion on immigration. It’s just not going to happen. Microsoft does not have such a team, nor does the IRS or the state Lotto. Cyber attacks over the internet will continue to escalate as the internet becomes even more unsecure and under the influence of foreign governments. Did you know the president is handing over control of the internet to the United Nations, run by Third World countries? “What is the global internet community that Obama wants to turn the internet over to?” asks Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the House. “This risks foreign dictatorships defining the internet.” Your existing anti-virus isn’t robust enough to counter this crime. Due to the challenges now facing us, I recom-

mend Military Grade Enterprise monitoring and Cyber Security software provided by Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Large and international companies are already adopting more stringent security like this. Tighter management of your personal security is the new reality. Knowledge and awareness are often keys to your safety. Education and some common sense will help protect you against internet crimes and scams. Homeland Security has declared October Cyber Security Awareness Month. “We live in a world that is more connected than ever before,” says their website. “The internet touches almost all aspects of everyone’s daily life, whether we realize it or not. National Cyber Security Awareness Month is designed to engage and educate public and private sector partners through events and initiatives to raise awareness about cyber security, provide them with tools and resources needed to stay safe online and increase the resiliency of the nation in the event of a cyber incident.” Here is a quick list of the topics Homeland Security wants to discuss. Perhaps looking into one or more of these

WILL CLANEY

TECH TALK

topics will help you defend yourself. Oct. 3-7: Everyday Steps Toward Online Safety. With Stop. Think. Connect. Oct. 10-14: Cyber from the Break Room to the Board Room. Oct. 17-21: Recognizing and Combating Cyber Crime. Oct. 24-28: Our Continuously Connected Lives: What’s Your ‘App’-titude? Oct. 31: Building Resilience in Critical Infrastructure. The bottom line is you should stay informed to protect your most precious commodity – your data. Update your thinking on anti-virus and find out more by calling your local MSP or drop a dime to 925-672-9989 for more on the subject. For more information, visit https://www.dhs.gov/national-cyber-security-awarenessmonth.

William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.

September 9, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Obituary

Grace Caroline Marie Brennan

P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517

TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER , Publishers TAMARA S TEINER , Editor P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B EV B RITTON , Copy Editor J AY B EDECARRÉ, Sports PAMELA W IESENDANGER , Administration, Calendar Editor S TAFF W RITERS : Peggy Spear, Pamela Wiesendanger, Jay Bedecarré, Bev Britton

C ORRESPONDENTS : Kara Navolio, John T. Miller, Jennifer Leischer

We remember Jill Bedecarré

PIONEER INFO CONTACT US

Tel: (925) 672-0500 Fax: (925) 672-6580 www.ClaytonPioneer.com

Tamara Steiner tamara@claytonpioneer.com Send ads to ads@claytonpioneer.com Send Sports News to sports@claytonpioneer.com Send Club News to clubnews@claytonpioneer.com Send School News to

schoolnews@claytonpioneer.com LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a resident in our home delivery area. Submit on our website and be sure to attach a JPG photo that is at least 3 MB but not bigger than 6MB. You can also mail or bring your print to the office and we can scan it for you. Also on the website are forms for calendar items, events & press releases. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Both Pioneer newspapers welcome letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be 175 words or less and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have

priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print anonymous letters. E-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com. Letters must be submitted via E-mail. CIRCULATION

Total circulation of the Clayton Pioneer is 5,500 to ZIP code 94517, all delivered by US Mail to homes and businesses. We cannot start or stop free delivery to individual addresses. This must be done directly through the Post Office. The Concord Pioneer is delivered monthly to 30,500 in Concord by carrier. Papers are delivered once a month on a Friday morning near the end of the month. To stop delivery for any reason, call the office at (925) 672-0500 or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are NOT receiving the Pioneer, please check the distribution map on the website. If you live in the shaded area and are not receiving the paper, please call us or send an email to circulation@claytonpioneer.com. If you are not in the shaded area, please be patient. We will come to your neighborhood soon.

SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, call the office at (925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are $35/year for each paper, $60/year for both.

Keller House, from page 1

of significant value in 2001, and it is now listed in the California Register of Historical Resources. According to the Clayton Historical Society, the Keller House “has been locally identified as a rare surviving building of this period and a fine example of custom home building

March 15, 1938 – July 31, 2016

Resident of Clayton, CA Grace passed away Sunday, July 31 after a valiant and hard fought battle with cancer. She will lovingly be remembered as a mother, a devoted wife, dear friend, for her bright smile, caring heart, and as a zealot fan of the San Francisco 49ers, San Francisco Giants and Golden State Warriors. Grace was born in Mt. Vernon, New York, the eldest of five children. She graduated from Pelham High School. She relocated to San Francisco with her husband, Neil and two small daughters (Dawn & Lori) in July 1965. She had two more children after moving to San Francisco, Erin and Bill. Grace learned to love San Francisco, but her heart (and accent) never left New York. After several administrative positions in the Banking and Legal fields she retired to become a full-time mother, wife, friend and neighbor. Grace strongly believed in giving back to the community. She was a regular volunteer at the Wellness Community Center in Walnut Creek, CA and served a term as President of the Family Stress Center in Concord, CA. In addition to loving her Bay Area Sports Teams, Grace enjoyed nothing more than spending quality time with family and friends. She always had an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on. When not watching sports or with family, she loved her trips with girlfriends to visit her “one armed

Directory of Advertisers

Business Services

Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . .672-8717 Construction and Trades

Appliance Repairs by Bruce, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . .672-2700

Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423 Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144

Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500 Italian Heritage Tile & Stone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9000 J.A. Ronco Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .872-3049

Mr. Fix-it Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0347 Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679 Dining and Entertainment

Clayton Club Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .673-0440

Oakhurst Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9737 Education

bandit” aka the slot machines at the local Bay Area casinos. Grace is survived and will be greatly missed by her loving husband of almost 56 years, Neil Brennan. She leaves behind four loving children: Dawn (Dean McFarren) Brennan, Lori Creedon, Erin Brennan and Bill (Lauri) Brennan and four adoring grandchildren: Rebecca & Matthew Creedon; Brooke & Rose Brennan. She is also survived by her two remaining brothers: Angelo (Susan) Congello and Jack Congello. Friends and family are invited to Grace’s Memorial Mass on Friday, September 30, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John Vianney’s Catholic Church located at 1650 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Walnut Creek, CA 94598. There will be a reception immediately following for guests in the Church Hall. In lieu of flowers, please make any donations you wish to Hospice of the East Bay, 3470 Buskirk Ave., Pleasant Hill, CA 94523.

bought it in 1978, but sold it to Presley Homes after the city rejected Seeno’s development plan. Presley gave the city the parcel containing the Keller House and the property on which the Clayton Library now sits as part of approval for the Oakhurst development.

of the early 20th century.” Ranch operations continued on the site until 1972, when the Pacific Coast Construction Co. purchased the property. However, an economic downturn and resistInformation for this article supance from Native Americans plied by the Clayton Historical Sociprevented development. ety and Dick Ellis. Seeno Construction Co.

Keller House joins 10 other Clayton historical sites The Clayton Historical Society is committed to marking and preserving the town’s historical buildings and sites. Since 2000, 11 historical sites have been memorialized on monuments or plaques: • Mt. Diablo Elementary School, 2000. • Clayton Museum garden, 2001. • Clayton Post Office, 2001. • Endeavor Hall, 2001. • Joel Clayton’s house (now the Clayton Museum), 2002. • Clayton Club, 2002. • De Martini Winery (now City Hall), 2004.

Page 7

• The Growler (later La Cocotte Restaurant and now Moresi’s Chophouse), 2003. • Black Diamond Plaza, 2005. • The Grove Park, 2015. • Keller Ranch House, 2016. According to Bob Hoyer of the Historical Society, the next marker will likely be at Skipolini’s Pizza, originally a two-story home built in the early 20th century for “Dolly” Murchio. She was the postmistress, and the house served as the Clayton Post Office for a time.

In Loving Memory

Clayton Community School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-0388 Events

CBCA - Oktoberfest . . . . . . . . . .claytonoktoberfest.com Clayton Theatre Company .claytontheatrecompany.com Concerts in the Grove –

City of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ci.clayton.ca.us

Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . .800-949-3276

St. Demetrios – Greek Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-6967 Financial, Insurance and Legal Services

Aragon, Al - Citibank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-697-5000 Geraghty, Colleen – Prudential . . . . . . . . . . . . .305-0321

Littorno, Richard – The Law Office of . . . . . . . .432-4211

Van Wyck, Doug – State Farm Insurance . . . .672-2300 Funerals

Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242 Health and Wellness

Harvest House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .676-2305 Home and Garden

Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299 Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757 Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920 Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955

Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-5609 The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243

Utopic Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524-0055

Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323 Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334 Mailing Services

The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245 Photography

Weston Tanner

July 22, 1992– Sept. 27, 2013

"....and she loved a little boy very, very much – Even more than she loved herself... She calls him son."

Wes, I Love You to the Moon & Back Forever. Mom

Rochellez Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-677-4170 Real Estate and Mortgage Services

Bennett, Nancy – Keller Williams . . . . . . . . . . .606-8400

Clayton Fair Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-0324

French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . .672-8787 Guillory, Hollie – Alain Pinel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .382-8729 Hayes, Diane and Bill – Better Homes Realty . .890-4701

Klock, Leigh – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . .212-5593

Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . .890-6004 Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . .305-9099

Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757 Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . . .567-6170

Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . .672-4433 Recreation and Fitness

Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301-7496 Senior Services

All About Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-903-4947 Oakmont of Concord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .234-9576 Services, Other

ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989 Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029

Recycling Center & Transfer Station . . . . . . . .682-4518

FREE estimates Specializing in Bathrooms and Kitchens

Travel

Travel to Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9840

Remodeling Windows/Doors l Crown Molding l Overhangs l Decks l Siding l Trim l

Declan Woods 925.216.2679 Clayton Resident

Tipperary Construction Inc.

General Contractor,

license# 783799, B, HIC

TipperaryConstruction.com

Responsibility

Do the Right Thing

Schools

Page 8

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 9, 2016

New program places high school students at DVC

DR. NELLIE MEYER

MDUSD

SUPERINTENDENT

Mt. Diablo Unified has started its first Middle College Program, College Now, which provides opportunities for high school students to take college courses at Diablo Valley College and earn both high school and college credit. Students enrolled in the program take three high school courses, AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), English and history. They then take the rest of their classes at

DVC with other college students. These classes include math and one of four electives – Spanish, psychology, Japanese or music. Our inaugural class started this August with 30 juniors. We begin taking applications for next year’s junior class this spring. Students report they are enjoying the opportunity to get a head start on college and experiencing a real-world college environment. Research shows that

attending a Middle College prosocial environment, with gram can offer unique advanstudents receiving invaluable tages to students, such as: access to college facilities, • An opportunity to acquire including learning resource “self-starter” skills to centers, science labs, combecome motivated, indeputer labs, student centers, pendent learners – essential tutoring centers and transfer to success in higher educacenters. tion and careers. • By earning community col• Smaller class sizes and lower lege and/or transferrable teacher-student and councredits, students reduce the selor-student ratios are key completion time to earning to the program’s success. a certificate and/or associate • An enhanced academic and degree.

Education expert talks about preparing students for the future

Great teachers inspire great students, and this is clearly evident at Clayton Valley Charter High School. Prior to the opening week of school, the staff participated in a special professional development program that featured one of the nation’s leading experts in education, Bill Daggett. His system for Effective Instruction and Rigor/ DAVID LINZEY Relevance framework is the cornerstone of the 2011 char- VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE ter conversion. I have been a follower of Daggett for a decade, and he has been an vance. These schools underinspiration in shaping my edu- stand that rigor, while essential, is not adequate to lead all cational philosophy. Daggett inspired, chal- students to high levels of lenged and equipped the teach- achievement. Rather, a high ers, administrators, coaches, level of application of that counselors and community knowledge, in what Daggett leaders to prepare students for refers to as living in “Quadlifelong success. Throughout rant D,” is critical. Daggett the presentation, Daggett provided an in-depth look at highlighted CVCHS as a model the Rigor/Relevance frameschool emphasizing the “cul- work as well as relationships ture of excellence” philosophy among students, teachers, – rooted in rigor, relevance and parents and the community. relationships to ensure every • Preparing Students to be College student is prepared for college and Career Ready. To successfully meet the growing and a successful future. Here are a few of Daggett’s demand to make all students college and career ready, edukey areas: cators must overcome a • Rigor, Relevance and Relationship series of challenges. Schools for All Students. Highly suc- such as CVCHS have made a cessful schools such as fundamental shift in what is CVCHS have academically taught and how it will be rigorous curricula that also taught. Students are assessed incorporate real-world rele- on standards that are far

more rigorous and much more applied than in the past; therefore, teachers will need to match instruction to those higher levels of rigor and relevance. Daggett addressed why these changes are being made, the impact they will have on curriculum and instruction and ways that the nation’s most rapidly improving schools have developed to meet these challenges successfully. • Creating Future-Focused Schools. The nation’s most rapidly improving schools are “future focused.” Daggett provided vivid examples of how successful schools such as CVCHS communicate with parents, community and staff in a social media environment; adjust curriculum to address the academic skills and knowledge students will need in the accelerating technological/information-based society and workplace; and deliver instruction in a digital and highly interactive format that is relevant for the youth of today, who will be the leaders of tomorrow.

It is a testament of our great school when a nationally recognized expert is spotlighting CVCHS and the tremendous work we are doing in preparing students for their future through college and career readiness. I’m proud of the staff and school community for joining me in accepting these challenges and inspiring students to become self-moti-

Childcare

vated, competent individuals with a passion for lifelong learning. David Linzey is executive director of CVCHS. Contact him David.linzey@claytonvalley.org

LAURA MCFARLAND

CARONDELET

CORRESPONDENT

As the school year starts, Carondelet has unveiled exciting plans for purchasing a new athletic complex for its student athletes. Because Carondelet was founded in 1965, when little emphasis was placed on women’s sports, the campus features only a small gym and some non-regulation tennis courts. Carondelet athletes must hold swim and diving practice at the De La Salle pool across the street and soccer, lacrosse and softball practices at various parks up to 30 minutes away. “It’s really difficult to figure out transportation since we practiced off campus,” former

Located at Mt. Diablo Elementary School 5880 Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton

Some people think many just teen hormones or as my children and teens treat their Mom says, “They’re just www.claytoncommunityschool.org parents with less respect than tired.” they did in the past. It may be But I believe it’s also the influence of popular music. Alex J. Packer conducted a survey, “How Rude,” which Serving Northern California for Over 30 Years & surveyed parents to see what is making kids ruder than in the past. For the most part, Specializing in Large parents blamed the media and Hazardous Trees & the influence of icons across Heritage Oak trees the world. Packer says perhaps Crane Service its parents who are ruder Tree & Stump Removal these days, teaching their chilArborist Consulting dren to be rude. Think about what children Arborist Reports 24 HOUR FREE and teens see and listen to on EMERGENCY Pruning/Cabling ESTIMATES TV, the internet or the radio. Fire Abatement SERVICE Teens look up to those peoCustom Milled Lumber ple, and when those people Firewood aren’t creating the best influence, it might affect the way Ed Waraner teens acts. 8861 Marsh Creek Rd, Clayton Many teens find comfort Bonded and Fully Insured Lic. #642272 Certified Arborist WE-3386A in listening to music, and it is no doubt that musical artists Major Credit Cards Accepted influence teens. But popular music can get racy. Songs CCC Certified Please call (925) 672-0388 for more information.

Residential Commercial

l l l l l l l

(925) 831-2323

www.waranerbrostree.com

Fire Abatement

For more information, visit www.mdusd.org/middle-college-program. Dr. Nellie Meyer is Superintendent of Schools for MDUSD. Email questions or comments to meyern@mdusd.org

Clayton Valley Alumni to Host Barbecue Fundraiser Nov. 13 Clayton Valley Charter High School and CVHS alumni are needed to cook and serve patrons for the barbecue fundraiser at the CVCHS Holiday Faire on Nov. 13. Or come on down and buy some barbecue and

catch up with old friends. All proceeds go towards the class of 2017 senior activities. CVCHS is at 1101 Alberta Way, Concord. For more information, contact Alexis at 354-8095 or ahenleybush@comcast.net.

Cougar athletes find a place to call home lacrosse player Sydney Moore remarks. “Often times, we had to run to a park several miles away while our coaches brought our gear in their cars.” Scheduling practice space and times at these off-campus locations is difficult, and often results in teams holding practices at inconvenient hours. “Our water polo team can’t use the pool until 7:15 at night because De La Salle teams go first,” explains Caitlin Lawson, Carondelet’s athletic director. “I’m looking forward to having the freedom to practice wherever and whenever we want to.” Carondelet has nearly 500 student athletes who participate in more than 13 California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) sanctioned sports. The new athletic complex, formerly ClubSport Valley Vista, will provide practice space, as well as “home turf ” for the previously nomadic Cougar teams.

Today’s music may be leading to a ruder culture

Teacher / Aide Positions Available

We are grateful to the leadership at DVC and both school boards for working together to make this a reality.

today are a lot more blatant in their use of foul language. They also promote things such as sex, drugs and alcohol. Consider the song “Don’t Mind” by Kent Jones. I have heard it all over the radio, and kids at school sing it all the time. Yet it promotes drugs and is degrading to women. In “Fancy,” Iggy Azalea describes “trashing hotels” and “getting drunk” – not something you want teens to be doing. It’s not just rap. Think about songs like Katy Perry’s “Last Friday Night,” Zayn Malik’s “Pillow Talk” or Demi Lovato’s “Cool for the Summer.” Music shouldn’t promote the bad, but rather the good – especially when it is being listened to by teens. I am all for freedom of speech, but I think popular music should talk more about self-acceptance and less about the party

“That’s something we’ve missed out on in the past,” Lawson says. “Our teams haven’t really had that home field experience, and this is a place where we can finally call home.” Located 2½ miles from the school, the complex will feature soccer, lacrosse and softball fields, as well as an aquatic center with a full-sized pool and diving area. Six new tennis courts will be adjacent to new facilities for strength and conditioning, training and rehabilitation. If all goes according to plan, the facility will be ready for student use at the beginning of the 2017-18 school year. McFarland is a senior at Carondelet High School and a member of the cross country team. Send comments and questions to editor@claytonpioneer.com

NATALIE PURSCHE

DVMS

CORRESPONDENT

attitude. Artists could create more age-appropriate music if they are targeting young teens. Or maybe, teens could just stopped buying questionable music, and artists would have to change their tune. Next time you listen to the radio, think of how the music is influencing you and what message it is sending. If the message isn’t positive, maybe you should just turn it off.

Natalie Pursche is in the eighth grade at Diablo View Middle School. She is an avid reader, enjoys writing, and loves to spend time with her friends and family. Send comments to editor@claytonpioneer.com.

September 9, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 9

Exchange student excited about opportunities at CVCHS The Rotary Club at Clayton Valley Charter High School has a long-standing tradition of participating in the Rotary Youth Exchange program, an opportunity for teenagers to study abroad. The students chosen exemplify strong leadership skills and are open to trying new things and embracing different cultures. This year, the Rotary selected Sophie Wen Lin Su of Taiwan. As a foreign exchange student, she is staying with a host family and attending Clayton Valley. With a class schedule that includes journalism, public speaking and economics, the 16-year-old has been thrown right into the middle of the youth culture of California and the United States.

SYDNEY SKOW

CVCHS

CORRESPONDENT

She sees small things that are different, such as the start time of school and the amount of times students switch classes. The biggest difference, she points out, is that “here, people will not go up to those who are alone and talk with them, but in Taiwan, we always will.”

Sophie is grateful for this opportunity and worked hard to earn it. After being interviewed multiple times and filling out countless applications, she also showed off her talent of playing Chinese flute. She will be staying here for one year, leaving next summer to return home to Chungli, in northern Taiwan, where she has two more years of school to finish. Sophie attends Ping Jen Senior High School, located in Taoyuan City. Her school is famous for Taekwondo and their baseball team, which recently played for a championship in the United States. While she misses her parents, grandma and friends from home, she enjoys spending time with the friends she’s met at

CVCHS marching band to march in the Walnut Festival Parade

UNDER THE DIRECTION OF LYDIA LIM and drum majors Konlan Rondini, Andrew Hamilton and Kelsi Niepraschk, the Eagles marching band field show debuted to a great turnout as the Eagles varsity football team won their home game opener.

The CVCHS marching band unveiled music from the movie “Pirates of the Caribbean” at the first halftime show of the varsity football season. The band will expand the show throughout the season.

The marching band also performed the national anthem on Sept. 3 at the Oakland A’s versus Boston Red Sox game. More than 200 parents and fans from CVCHS purchased tickets to the game as a fundraiser and to

Mayor, from page 1

thing fun and memorable.

GET INTO THE MUDD Meanwhile, Sept. 10 brings the last concert for the 2016 summer series, featuring the band East Bay Mudd. With a 10piece band, including a fourpiece powerful horn section and awesome vocalists, East Bay Mudd will keep you dancing all night long. The band’s upbeat and commanding take on contemporary classics, soul, funk and R&B leaves you asking for more. The concert starts at 6 p.m. in the Grove. Come as early as 4 p.m. to stake out a spot and enjoy the last days of the summer with friends. Attendees are

encouraged to pick up food from local restaurants or bring homemade fixin’s.

cheer on the band. In addition to home football games, the marching band will be featured in the 80th Annual Walnut Festival Twilight Parade at 6 p.m. on Sept. 17 in Walnut Creek. Lastly, the CVCHS Instrumental Music Program and Music Boosters are excited to present “Lights, Camera….Auction” from 5 to 10 p.m. on Oct. 7 at the Perera Pavilion, Pleasant Hill. The event is a concert, dinner and live and silent auction open to the public and benefiting the instrumental program. Continuing the movie music theme, the event promises to be the largest and most important fundraiser of the year. The evening features performances by the CVCHS wind ensemble, jazz band, orchestra and symphonic band. Tickets are $50. For tickets and more information, go to claytonbands.org.

mayor, I will faithfully discharge my duties and serve the people who had the confidence four years ago to elect me for a second term. Because I have two children living out of state and three grandchildren, my decision not to re-run is in harmony with my election statements. I plan to spend more quality time with my wife Debbie and our four children. We want to tour the United States and abroad without the constraints of the many monthly meetings. I will continue to produce the 10 Saturday Concerts in The Grove series each summer for which I volunteer my time.

Clayton Valley and loves meeting new people and making new friends. “At first, it was really hard for me to make friends,” Sophie recalls, “but it’s much better now.” The language barrier was a challenge that she had to overcome, although she has taken English class in Taiwan. “We do so much writing and reading in English, but speaking English in a conversation is much harder,” she admits. “My English has improved a lot.” Sophie is soaking in the culture and looks forward to visiting Canada with her host family this week. Sydney Skow is a sophomore at CVCHS. Email her at sydneyaskow@icloud.com.

MDES garden recycle drive seeks help The Mt. Diablo Elementary School Garden Committee is having a recycle drive through Sept. 16 to raise funds for garden operations. Please place aluminum cans and plastic bottles in the large garbage bin in front of the school labeled “Place Your Recyclables Here.” Funds go towards a recycled art project for the school garden and efforts to encourage “green” behavior on campus. The garden is thriving and boasts sunflowers over nine feet tall. It was used all sum-

Council, from page 1

Diaz joined the Clayton Police Department in 1979 and rose to be commander of the Reserve Division. He then took a governor’s appointment to lead an agency that oversees the California Private Security Industry. Diaz previously served on the Planning Commission and currently represents Clayton on the County Connection board. He is active in CBCA events as well as Clayton Cleans Up. Catalano, a land use and real estate attorney, is a current planning commissioner. She participated in interview panels for the Community Development director and police chief. This year with the CBCA, she was volunteer coordinator for Art & Wine and chaired the Scholarship Committee. Lampo, a part-time merchandiser at Home Depot, has been an assistant Boy Scout leader, helped the Clayton Valley Charter High School Music Boosters and served on the board of the Dana Ridge Homeowner’s Association. He also volunteers for Clayton Cleans Up and the Art & Wine Festival.

TAKING A BREAK After eight years on the Clayton City Council, I have decided to take a sabbatical and not run for re-election. The past eight years have been enlightening. I have learned the ins and outs of local politics and how a city can stay solvent. I have learned that efficient government works best ATTRACTING NEW when there are no special interBUSINESSES est groups trying to “buy” votes. All the candidates agree that I truly believe city governments increasing the city budget are the truest forms of democthrough a larger tax base is necAs always, e-mail questions or racy in action. essary. With three months left to my thoughts to hgeller@ci.clayton.ca.us. Lampo says he has been in term on the council and as

It could be a virus, or it could just need a tune-up.

Prevent problems caused by viruses and spyware with regular proactive maintenance.

Doug Van Wyck

Low cost, fixed fee services that monitor & maintain your network to minimize IT problems

6200 Center St. Ste. A Clayton, CA 94517

TOTAL DESKTOP CARE & SERVER WATCH

Call Mark 925.672.6029 or info@netsolutions-ca.com

CLU ChFC, Agent Insurance Lic. # 0586396

925-672-2300

www.dougvanwyck.com

I’m here to help life go right™ by being there to help protect you, with coverage from the #1 car insurer in the country. CALL ME TODAY

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company Bloomington, IL 1601580

Photo courtesy Mureleen Benton

SOPHIE WEN LIN SU OF TAIWAN will spend this school year attending CVCHS and traveling around with her host family, Rotary members Joe and Mureleen Benton, pictured here at Boreal Ridge in Tahoe.

Texas County Mutual Dallas, TX

mer by the on-campus daycare, Clayton Community School. Additional monies for the garden sprouted as a result of applying to a grant program with the California Fertilizer Foundation. Mt. Diablo Elementary is one of 22 schools in the state to receive the $1,200 grant, which will be awarded to the school on Sept. 16. MDES is at 5880 Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton. For more information, contact Laney Cline King at laneycline@gmail.com.

contact with the Contra Costa Association of Realtors. “I think this is a good place to start. I am sure they have some ideas,” he says. He suggested working with established small business owners and “enticing them to open a second location in our neighborhood.” He says he is open to amending the Town Center Specific Plan. “I want to see impact studies and get more overall information,” Lampo notes. Diaz believes the city needs to provide incentives that will promote business development. “This would include eliminating unnecessary regulatory ‘red-tape’ requirements,” he says. He adds that amendments to the Town Center Specific Plan “need to be thoughtful and addressed carefully to assure their impacts are compatible with our design and community characteristics.” Catalano advocates having a lively Town Center, with events and activities that bring in potential customers and visitors. “The Bocce Courts are a recent example of an excellent catalyst,” she says. For her, the key Town Center question is whether and to what extent the city should deviate from the requirement that 100 percent of the ground floor area be used for retail sales. Pierce says the city needs to be realistic about the kinds of

development the community can support. “We will never have the kind of commercial ‘traffic’ that our larger neighbors have to support big development. Nor do most of our residents want that,” she notes. She points to the Bocce Courts and Grove Park as prime examples of how to make the downtown a destination. “We need to encourage communityserving small businesses and mixed-use development that will encourage residents and visitors to stay and shop or dine,” Pierce says. AGREEMENT ON CITY’S DIRECTION

The incumbents and challengers alike believe the City Council is heading in the right direction. Catalano says she has “no significant disagreements” with council decisions, while Lampo thinks the council is doing a good job. “But I believe it is time for some fresh people and ideas,” he adds. Pierce praises the current council for building on the work of previous boards. “Clayton’s amenities have continued to evolve while retaining our small town, family-oriented traditions,” she reports. For his part, Diaz agrees with recent decisions made by the council. “It needs to continue focusing more energy on revenue generation and ensure new business development occurs in the downtown area,” he notes.

Sports Ugly Eagles draw blanks at Honor Bowl Page 10

JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

For the third year in arrow Clayton Valley Charter High School football ventured to Southern California to play a high-calibre opponent. Last Saturday the Ugly Eagles once again ended up on the wrong of the scoreline as they lost 13-0 to Helix High of La Mesa in the Honor Bowl at Mission Viejo. The final result wasn’t as surprising as the fact that CVCHS failed to score. The Honor Bowl was the 60th game in the Tim Murphy era at the charter school. It was the first time in those 60 games (CVCHS won 52 of the first 59 games) that his team didn’t score at least two touchdowns. The Highlanders defense,

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 9, 2016

featuring numerous Division I committed players, protected a 13-0 halftime lead and forced several punts from the Eagles. In fact, Clayton Valley punted more times in the Honor Bowl than they did during the entire 2014 season. TOUGH PRESEASON CONTINUES

The Eagles return to their difficult non-league schedule when they host 2-0 Canyon Springs of North Las Vegas Friday evening at Gonsalves Stadium. They also have games with James Logan of Union City and Deer Valley in Antioch before their first Diablo Athletic League game against Miramonte in Orinda Oct. 7. The last time Clayton Valley was shut out was in Herc Pardi’s final game in charge in the 2011 North Coast Section playoffs in Santa Rosa to Maria Carrillo. During Murphy’s tenure the only times his team has been held under 21 points were to De La Salle in 2013 and in the State Bowl Championship game last December to Narbonne, both times scoring 14 points. With a 1-1 record the Eagles will drop slightly in East Bay and Northern California rankings where they have been No. 2 to De La Salle. An early-season loss isn’t uncommon during Murphy’s time as the Eagles have lost to a Division I team in their first Photo courtesy Phillip Walton/ or second game every season SportStars Magazine but 2015 when they won their SENIOR TRÉ WHITE is the most first 15 games before losing in highly rated player on De La the State Bowl finals. Salle’s young team that is The Eagles this year may rely seeking to win the Spartans a little more on defense while the 25th consecutive North Coast Section championship. backfield of quarterback Zia Rahmany and runningbacks White has scored touchdowns in the first two games Akeal Lalaind and James Teofilo get in sync with one another and as DLS has stretched its Northern California winning the offensive line to master the Wing T run-oriented offense streak to 273 games dating Murphy’s team uses. back to 1991.

Justin Rogers

QUARTERBACK ZIA RAHMANY (6) is in charge of the Clayton Valley Charter High football offense and has met with mixed early-season success. The Eagles won their season opener over Reed High of Sparks, Nev. 35-21 but CVCHS was blanked 13-0 in the Honor Bowl last Saturday by Helix of La Mesa. Junior Alatini (15) is a newcomer to the backfield and helped lead Zahmany on this run against Reed.

Heavily-recruited lineman Jalen McKenzie was injured and out for the season on the second play of his junior year and had a scare when he came off hurt during the Honor Bowl but returned to action. YOUNG DLS TEAM 2-0 De La Salle’s senior class has reportedly been called the least talented at the school in the past 25 years and the expectation was for the Spartans to have a real challenge as they seek their 25th consecutive NCS title with only two returning starters from the highly-touted State championship 2015 squad. Last year coach Justin Alum-

baugh had a roster loaded with veterans including 5-Star recruits and pre-season all-America selections Devin Asiasi and Boss Tagaloa, lost their first game in Texas and then rolled through the schedule to a second-straight State Open Division championship and at least one mythical national title. With all that experience a year ago went 32 senior graduates. Of the 27 juniors on this year’s DLS roster only six played varsity last year. Senior defensive back Tré White is the only preseason all-NCS first teamer for the Spartans and he’s already shown flashes of that talent with touchdowns in the first two

games as the Spartans handily defeated Amador Valley and traditional rival Serra of San Mateo. Also gaining pre-season honors were juniors Kairee Robinson, Jackson Walsh and Tuli Letuligasenoa along with seniors Logan Nonies and Isaia Taotua. Alumbaugh now has a 43-2 record into his fourth year at the helm after replacing legendary coach Bob Ladouceur but faces his toughest challenge this year with the inexperienced squad. Abel Ordaz is settling in as starting quarterback without any varsity experience behind center. Ordaz has overcome three major football injuries since eighth grade. Alumbaugh says

tured a share of the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) North Division championship for the first time, reached the title game of the CCAA Tournament, qualified for the NCAA Division II West Regionals for the first time in 39 years and produced the University’s first CCAA MVP in any sport in senior All-America Rudy Navarro. Ralston went to Cal State East Bay in the summer of 2011 following 11 years as the head baseball coach at Clayton Valley, where he captured seven league titles and a North Coast Section championship in 2009, as well as three other NCS championship game appearances. During his tenure, Ralston guided the Eagles to their best season record (24-3), most wins (26) and best season batting average (.394) in program history. He previously spent three seasons as head coach at St. Patrick-St. Vincent High in Vallejo from 1995-97, where he won two Sac-Joaquin Section titles. Overall, he compiled a 344-95 record as a high school head coach, collecting eight league championships and three section titles. He interrupted his Clayton Valley career in 2007-08 as head coach at Diablo Valley College, leading the Vikings to a California Community College Athletic Association NorCal Elite Eight appearance, a top-10 ranking in the state and a 54-39 record over his two years there. Ralston got his start in coaching as an assistant

at Cal from 1990-91, helping DVC from 1992-94. the Bears to the NCAA Cal State East Bay Athletic Regional final, before moving Communications contributed to this on to serve as an assistant at story.

the coaching staff and players look to his determination and leadership as keys to getting the veer offense working this year with Robinson, Jonathan Hackett and White the top ball carriers. The Spartans at-large schedule includes a game in Orange County against Servite this Saturday and then DLS hosts 3-0 East of Salt Lake City, Utah. The main attraction of the regular season will be when Antioch and the No. 1 high school running back in America, Najee Harris, visits the Concord school Sept. 23 in a nationally televised game on ESPNU. The Panthers were stunned last Friday by Milpitas.

Bob Ralston returns to Clayton Valley HS after five successful years as Cal State East Bay baseball coach JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

After completing his most successful season at Cal State East Bay, Bob Ralston recently resigned as Pioneers head baseball coach and returned to Clayton Valley Charter High School as freshman academic advisor. The former Eagles baseball coach will be assisting his brother-in-law Casey Coakley coaching CVCHS baseball next spring. Ralston left Clayton Valley after the 2011 season to coach the Pioneers. Over the five years at Cal State he had three 30-win seasons and this year was voted 2016 California Collegiate Athletic Association Coach of the Year by the league’s head coaches and was named West Region Coach of the Year by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association. “Cal State was a great experience but coaching in Division II sports is a 24/7 job,” Ralston said explaining that programs like Cal State don’t have the money for support staff. “You are always recruiting. You come home from a full day’s work and you get calls at all hours. I was not only head coach but wore many other hats—-making sure players have apartments and that they are going to study hall and keeping up their GPA.I needed to make hotel reservations and get meal money.” His chief assistant and former Oakland A and San Francisco Giant Darren Lewis also

Kelley Cox photograph courtesy ESUEB Athletic Communication

AFTER COMPLETING HIS MOST SUCCESSFUL SEASON AT CAL STATE EAST BAY, BOB RALSTON (37) recently resigned as Pioneers head baseball coach and returned to Clayton Valley Charter High School as freshman academic advisor. Also leaving the Pioneers program was assistant coach and former major leaguer Darren Lewis (40).

stepped down. Ralston’s tone is upbeat when talking about returning to Clayton Valley. “I love working with kids,” the 54-year-old said. The Clayton resident won’t miss the one-hour plus commute to Hayward. He’ll also be able to see his son Bill play his senior season for the Eagles before he heads off to St. Mary’s College. “I was excited when I got the call from [CVCHS executive director Dave] Linzey. It was time to come back.” He will be working with what is apparently the school’s largest ever freshman class (about 650 students) in its nearly 60-year history. Ralston compiled a record of 134-114 during his stint at CSUEB. His .540 overall win-

ning percentage is the highest in program history and he’s the only Pioneer head coach to post a winning record during his tenure. In the last four years, his teams have posted three of the four 30-win seasons in program history. “I want to thank Coach Ralston and Coach Lewis for their hard work and dedication in service of Cal State East Bay student-athletes,” said director of intercollegiate athletics Joan McDermott . “They elevated our baseball program to new heights in Division II and had a great deal of success in an extremely competitive conference. Bob and Darren will be very difficult to replace.” The past spring, Ralston’s Pioneers broke the program record with 33 victories, cap-

Jose Canseco loses Home Run Derby to Ugly Eagles pair

Photo courtesy Clayton Valley Charter High School

Jose Canseco was a Major League Baseball all-star, American League MVP and World Series champion with the Oakland A’s but he was defeated last month in a home run derby by Clayton Valley Charter High School players James Biles (left) and Billy Ralston (22). Canseco was at a Pittsburg Diamonds game at Pittsburg City Park where he played in a few games for the independent professional baseball team. The CVCHS duo won a high school home run derby by outslugging duos from seven other East Bay schools in order to square off against Canseco. Each Clayton Valley senior hit four homeruns within two minutes in the first round and then Biles blasted a “walk-off ” homer to win the second round and put his team into the finals against the 52-year-old Canseco and Diamonds team owner Khurram Shah where the youngters prevailed 4-3. The two Clayton Valley Charter players look forward to their senior season next spring as returning all-league players.

Sports

September 9, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Athlete Spotlight

Natalie Ruzicka Grade: Senior School: CVCHS Sport: Cross country, Track & Field

High school brings a lot of opportunities, experiences and memories for each student. But for Clayton Valley Charter senior Natalie Ruzicka, high school helped her discover a passion: running. After playing soccer for over 10 years, Ruzicka decided to try running cross country at CVCHS in the fall of her freshman year. Her parents suggested it purely to keep her in good shape for soccer. Ruzicka had another bit of

motivation since every year at Pine Hollow Middle School she had run the mile, going faster as she grew older and even broke a school record. Running cross country proved to be a success, as she has been on varsity all four years. Ruzicka enjoyed being with the people and atmosphere of the cross country team so much that she decided to join track and field the following spring. She has been on varsity track for three years.

She played Eagles soccer for two years before concentrating solely on running as a junior and senior. She was most valuable cross country runner as a freshman (fourth place at league meet) and most inspirational as a sophomore. Ruzicka has also made first team allDVAL for both cross country and track and has attended North Coast Section meets three times for cross country and twice for track. Ruzicka is in Engineering Academy at CVCHS and has consistently been on honor roll. She is involved with a variety of school programs including president of Interact club, chairperson of California Scholarship Federation and participating in the STEM, Multicultural and Senior Women clubs. Her future plans include attending a four-year university and eventually getting an advanced degree in computer science. CVCHS student journalist Sydney Skow wrote this Spotlight. Do you know a young athlete who should be recognized? Perhaps he or she has shown exceptional sportsmanship, remarkable improvement or great heart for the sport. Send your nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight today to sports@claytonpioneer.com.

Page 11

925-250-0334 FREE ESTIMATES

Owners Dustin & Kim Waraner Contractors Lic #879423 Arborist Lic WE-7372A

www.waranertreeexperts.com

CVCHS teams enter new era in DAL JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

The six fall sports are now underway for Clayton Valley Charter High School teams as they prep for the beginning of the new Diablo Athletic League seasons. The new DAL setup places its 12 schools in separate Valley and Foothill conferences for each sport. The Valley Conference contains the top-ranked teams based on results from the past two years for the schools that previously were in the Diablo Valley and Diablo Foothill athletic leagues. Based on those results, CVCHS teams are in the Foothill Conference for all fall sports except football. This alignment means that Alhambra of Martinez is the only former DFAL school Clayton Valley Charter will meet in water polo, cross country, girls golf, girls volleyball and girls tennis. DVAL alumnus Northgate is in the Valley Conference for all those sports and thus long-time rivals Broncos and Eagles won’t meet in DAL play. The winner of each DAL conference earns an automatic North Coast Section post-season berth. GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Clayton Valley went to NCS quarterfinals last year by winning a playoff with Northgate for the automatic section berth after tying for the DVAL title with the Broncos at 11-1. Second-year head coach Sebastian Sheehan says he’ll miss playing College Park and Northgate in league but “Alhambra and Berean Christian are the two teams we

need to beat if we have any chance at winning this league.” The coaches count on senior co-captains Erika Scheafer and Victoria Klock to led the way. Outside hitter Schaefer and middle Klock bring key experience on offense and defense, respectively. Sophomore Alaysia Mitchell is the youngest varsity player but is the “most athletic and one of the strongest hitters on the team,” according to her coach as Mitchell has grabbed a starting lineup position. Junior libero Mia Andrews is “full of energy and always willing to dive for a ball.” Other newcomers figuring to get plenty of playing time are juniors Anka Alexandru and Genevieve Love. The team lost a quartet of graduated seniors who help the team to NCS the past three years. DAL play begins Sept. 27 with Tuesday and Thursday games through the end of October. The NCS playoffs run Nov. 2-12. The Northern California playoffs are Nov. 16-22 with the CIF State championships Nov. 26-Dec. 3. Diablo Athletic League Conference alignments: Girls Volleyball – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Concord, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley. GIRLS TENNIS Tennis coaches Natalie Hudgins and Sayed Anwar are excited about the new DAL bracket as league champ Northgate and College Park have moved to the

Jason Rogers

CAPTAIN ERIKA SCHAEFER (10) begins her fourth year on the Clayton Valley Charter High School volleyball team this fall as a returning all-league player. The outside hitter is one of the team’s best offensive players. Her Eagles will host their fifth annual Dig Pink fundraising game to fight breast cancer in their first-ever Diablo Athletic League home game on Thursday, Sept. 29, against crosstown rival Concord. Last year’s Dig Pink game helped raise over $3700 for cancer research. Visit side-out.org for more information on Dig Pink.

Valley Conference. Anwar said, “Not having Northgate and College Park in the league will help us be more competitive. “Alhambra and Berean Christian are the two teams we need to beat. Though in the past we have had success against the other teams in our league, this year will be no cakewalk for our girls. Our players will have to work hard every match for us to compete.” Seniors Dalia Anwar and Megan Brys along with junior Tracy Nguyen are top returning players. Four-year player Anwar was part of the DVAL champion doubles team in 2015. The coaches are excited

about freshmen Sarisha Bhalla and Nelly Elahmadie as they compete for varsity positions after seven seniors graduated off last year’s squad. Almost 40 girls came out for the team including many who have never played tennis before. League matches are on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning Sept. 22 through Oct. 25. The DAL tournament is Oct. 27-29 with NCS team and singles-doubles competitions in November. Girls Tennis – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra,

See Fall Sports, pg 13

w e i V o l Diab truction Cons Remodeling Specialist

Kitchens Bathrooms Windows Mouldings Decks Siding Painting interior & exterior w Kevin Schmidt, Clayton Resident w Family Owned and Operated license 962284

925-822-5144

738 Bloching Circle, Clayton

Like us on Facebook

MDSA United FC complete Stanford Triple-peat

Photo courtesy MDSA

THE MDSA ELITE GIRLS TEAM HAVE FOUND A HOME AWAY FROM HOME at the Stanford Summer Classic. For the third year in a row the local team won the tournament championship there. They previously were under 16 and U17 champs and last month made it three in a row, this time in the oldest U19 Adidas division. The team had quite an August by also taking first place at the Fair Oaks Cup Classic Gold division. The team includes, front row from left, Kalina Campos, Madison Bliss; middle row, Lisette Ayala, Viviana Aceves, Georgia Moraes, Savannah Christopher, Isabella Scarpulla, Neftali Ramirez, Kaleigh Finney; back row, coach Jose Soltero, Maggie Soltero, Adelle Meyer, Rylie Pearson, Coralie Senquis, Emily Hockenbery, Micaela Davis, Amanda Funk, Adriana Gauthier and coach Anthony Campos. Not pictured, Kaitlyn Chiok and Tianna Young and coach Nelson Arcaya.

925.348.5609 Nick Eisenbart

Owner/Service Provider Concord resident

Serving all of Contra Costa County for 15 years Including Marsh Creek, Morgan Territory

Five Stars

on Yelp

Page 12

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 9, 2016

Sports

Justin Argenal returns to De La Salle as basketball coach JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

Frank Allocco spent 18 years as the head basketball coach at De La Salle High School and during that time established the Spartans as a state powerhouse. Since leaving in the spring of 2015 for a college coaching job, not one but two of his former DLS players have been hired to succeed him. AJ Kuhle took over for Allocco and guided his alma

mater within one half of a remarkable State championship in March. Kuhle resigned earlier this summer to return to Colorado and the school announced last week the appointment of Justin Argenal to the post effective immediately. Argenal was a member of the De La Salle class of 2004 and racked up an impressive playing and coaching resume since leaving the Concord school. He was a four-year team captain at Chico State

Maintaining good vision is an important part of your family's health care. Our goal is to combine modern facilities and equipment with a skilled, caring staff to provide the best possible eyecare for your entire family. 4180 Treat Blvd., Suite B, Concord

www.laceyandruzicka.com

925-682-0319

The UPS Store

Independently owned and operated

Sending Junior off to college?

Get 10% off our packaging materials

Notary, Packaging, Fax and Copy Services are available too!

Clayton/Concord Location:

Store Hours M-F 8-6:30 Sat 9-4:30

Vineyard Shopping Center

5100 Clayton Road Concord, CA 94523 ph: 925-689-6245

and is the conference and school all-time leader in steals and assists. He earned a bachelor of arts in psychology from Chico in 2009 before completing his master’s degree in coaching and athletic administration at Concordia University in Irvine. His older brother Gus Argenal is the fourth-year head coach at Cal State University East Bay and was a Spartan teammate of Kuhle’s. The younger Argenal brings nine years of NCAA coaching experience to the Spartans. His most recent assignment was at Cal State Dominguez Hills where he was the head assistant basketball coach in 2015-16. Prior he was assistant coach at Southeast Missouri State and The Citadel and two seasons as director of basketball operations at Louisiana Tech. Argenal started his coaching career as a graduate assistant at the Uni-

versity of Mississippi where he focused on academic success of student-athletes and implementation of individual workouts for offseason player development. De La Salle’s vice president for athletics Leo Lopoz says Argenal understands what it means to be a student-athlete. “His education, playing career and coaching experience along with his work ethic and integrity make him a perfect fit for our program and I am confident he will make a major impact both within and outside of the De La Salle community,” “We are thrilled to welcome Justin and his wife Suzanne back to the De La Salle family. Justin exemplifies everything that we are looking for in our next coach; his personal values and beliefs reflect those of our school and we believe he will further build upon a successful tradition for our basketball

JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer

at County this year. A week earlier, Dana Hills won its 24th Concord City Championship in the last 25 years. Clayton’s other team, Oakhurst Country Club, was eighth at County in Division III scoring.

JUSTIN ARGENAL

program,” Lopoz added. Argenal says, “It is an honor and privilege to serve as head basketball coach at De La Salle, a place that has such rich history and tradition. I had a tremendously positive experience here as a student-athlete and I look forward to helping provide that same experience to the student-athletes that I

will coach. I look forward to entrenching myself in the DLS community and am excited about the challenges that lie ahead.” He will also serve in a new position of director of enrichment programs where he will be responsible for developing new enrichment programs in several areas and expanding existing ones focused on athletic activities whose net revenue will be used to provide access and support for students from families of limited financial resources. The new coach inherits the defending East Bay Athletic League, North Coast Section and Northern California champions minus graduated all-everything player Jordan Ratinho and all-league standout Nikhil Peters. Among the top returning players are Colby Orr, Emeka Udenyi, Eric Headley and Connor O’Dea.

Dana Hills 3rd again at County Meet Dana Hills Swim Team utilized particularly strong showings in the oldest 15-18 boys age group from a couple of recent Clayton Valley Charter High grads to place third at the 56th annual Contra Costa County Swimming Championships in Lafayette last month. It was the second consecutive third-place showing by the Otters. DHST has now been in the top five at County Meet for six straight years. They were fourth in 2014, fifth the two previous years and second in 2011, which matched 1995 as the Clayton team’s highest finish ever. Crow Canyon Country Club are County champions for the 12th consecutive time. There were 55 recreation swim teams who scored points

DANA HILLS SWIMMERS EXCEL

Clayton Valley Charter’s 2015-16 athlete of the year Anthony Vines won the 15-18 butterfly and was second to Otter and Eagle teammate Ryan Levy in the 100 freestyle at County. Levy was second in the backstroke finals and Otter Sean Thomas was sixth in the same race. Vines and Levy tied for second for high-point honors. Vines, Levy, Thomas and Shawn Broussard won the 200 free relay and were fourth in

Sports Shorts

medley relay, racking up a load of points for the Otters. The DHST girls weren’t sitting idly by poolside as the 11-12 medley and 13-14 free relays both claimed County titles. The 13-14 quartet of Paige Landstrom, Logan Sherman, Caela Hetherton and Isabella Samardzic were also fourth in the medley relay. The 11-12 team of Summer Claibourne, Karlie Seastrand, Sophia Miller and Serafina Celentano was first in medley and second in the free relay. Miller was second in the 50 breast and third in the 100 individual medley. Seastrand was third in both the back and fly finals. The Otters also got individual top five performances from Samardzic, Claibourne, Colton Seastrand, Joshua Ewert, Hetherton, Land-

strom and Preston Marks. Other DHST County finalists were Rebecca Adent, Stella Marks, Molly Boland, Scott McMillan, Gabi Mancini, Molly DeSeelhorst, Abbey Keller and Diego Castaneda. The six and under boys medley relay was fifth and the 9-10 boys third. In the free relay the six and under boys were fourth, 9-10 boys sixth, 15-18 girls seventh, 11-12 boys eighth and 7-8 girls ninth for Dana Hills.

OTTERS ON THE BOARD Haley Brown was seventh in the 11-12 girls 50 breast for Oakhurst. Kaitlyn Sheffield was eighth in the 13-14 fly, Shane Jacoby ninth in 15-18 breast and Grace Smith 10th in 11-12 fly. Tyler Brown and John Safipour also scored individual points for the Orcas.

ST. BONAVENTURE CYO BASKETBALL TAKING SIGNUPS ONLINE

Signups for boys and girls in second through eighth grades for the St. Bonaventure basketball CYO program are being taken DIABLO FC FALL REC LEAGUE PROGRAM online at stbonaventurecyo.com. For more information call 672STARTS THIS WEEK 5774. All skill levels are welcome to participate in the nine-week Diablo FC soccer fall recreation league in Concord. Players born 3RD DIABLO FC POKER NIGHT FUNDRAISER between 2007 and 2012 will be grouped by age and skill levels to THIS FRIDAY learn key fundamentals to being a successful soccer player with Local competitive soccer club Diablo FC will hold its 3rd sessions and games on Tuesdays and Saturdays through Nov. 5. annual fundraising Poker Night this Friday. There will be dinner Diablo FC professional staff will be the instructors. To register before gaming starts at Pleasant Hill Community Center. The go to diablofc.org or email questions to director of coaching poker tournament will have gift certificate prizes up to $600. For Zach Sullivan at docdiablofc@gmail.com. more information or to sign up visit diablofc.org.

License # 958849

SHUFFLE THE CARDS FOR CVCHS CASINO NIGHT FOOTBALL BENEFIT SEPT. 17

Design • Installation • Maintenance Commercial & Residential • 925-381-3757

Mr. Fix-it Co. ALL FIELDS of SERVICE and REPAIR WORK

est. 1973 Insured, Bonded & Workers’ Comp

Air Conditioning, Appliance Repair, Carpentry, Concrete, Electrical, Ceramic Tile, Heating, Insurance Work, Painting, Plumbing, Remodeling, Wallpapering, and any Miscellaneous Items

Call Us for Any Work and We’ll Get It Done Right Away.

B-1 Lic.#358217 C-44

925-825-0347

Clayton Valley Charter football is hosting its fifth annual Casino Night Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament and dinner next Saturday, Sept. 17, benefiting the Ugly Eagles football program. Prize money of up to $500 for first place will be offered for the tournament. Tickets for poker and dinner or dinner only are available now. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. with the poker tournament at 8 o’clock in Centre Concord. Dinner is catered by Lisa V and DJ Mike provides the music. Tickets available at claytonvalleyfootball.com. Call 984-9089 or email cvchsfootball@gmail.com for more information.

ST. BONAVENTURE CYO CROSS COUNTRY SEASON BEGINS SOON

CLAYTON VALLEY HIGH ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME SEEKING NOMINATIONS

Clayton Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame will induct its fifth class on Friday, May 19, 2017 at the Shadelands Art Center in Walnut Creek. The Hall of Fame committee is seeking nominees for that 2017 induction class. Nominees must be a CVHS grad from 1959-2006 and was all-league in at least one sport. Nomination forms can be picked up at the high school office during business hours. Contact Herc Pardi herc_pardi@hotmail.com or Dee Billeter deebilleter@yahoo.com with any questions. The committee will accept completed forms until Oct. 15.

TERRAPINS FALL CLINIC , YEAR-ROUND PROGRAM TAKING SIGNUPS

St. Bonaventure CYO cross country is open to boys and girls in 2nd-8th grades in the St. Bonaventure attendance area. Cross country is a short, family-oriented season with practices Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5:30 p.m. in Newhall Park. The program is also looking for volunteer coaches. Parents are highly encouraged to run with their children at practices. Friday meets begin Sept. 23 with the Oakland Diocese meet Oct. 21. Contact St. Bonaventure CYO athletic director Joe Sullivan at 969-0207, email johnmercurio@astound.net or visit stbonaventurecyo.com for more info.

The renowned Terrapins Swim Team will be hosting its annual Fall Stoke Improvement Program starting Monday, Sept. 12, to Dec. 11 at Concord Community Pool. The program offers rec swimmers six-year-olds through high school the opportunity to train under the professional Terrapin staff for three months. Limited clinic registration is now being taken online at terrapinswim.com. The Terrapins year-round USA Swimming program is also accepting applications now for its fall season that begins Aug. 29. Call 680-8372 or visit terrapinswim.com for more info.

The Clayton Valley Little League Fall Ball program is accepting boys and girls for baseball (8-12 years old) and softball (12 and under). The three-month program includes practices and games through October with a focus on fundamentals. For more information and to register visit cvll.org.

Fall and winter programs offered by All Out Sports Leagues in Clayton are taking registration online. Open leagues include summer/fall adult softball, fall youth volleyball and fall/winter youth basketball leagues. For complete information on All Out Sports programs, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE FALL BALL UNDERWAY

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES FALL PROGRAMS IN CLAYTON

September 9, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Sports

Are you ready for NFL football? JACOB SAMUELS SPORTS TALK

Editor’s Note: We are pleased to introduce Jacob Samuels as our new student SportsTalk columnist. Jacob is a senior at Ygnacio Valley High School where he runs cross country and plays for the varsity baseball team. He is the announcer for YVHS home football, basketball and soccer games. This summer he worked as a warehouse assistant and coach for San Francisco Giants Baseball Camps. Jacob has been an avid sports fan since before he could talk and was lucky enough to be in the ballpark when the Giants won the pennant in 2002 and 2012. His goal to attend UC Berkeley next year and major in communications.

As summer gives way to fall, football fans can finally see the date they circled on their calendar months ago: this Sunday, Sept. 11, the first NFL Sunday of the year. The Bay Area’s two teams have been headed in opposite directions for a couple years now. The Raiders, with thirdyear quarterback Derek Carr primed to make major strides, are a darkhorse for a wild-card playoff berth. On the other hand, although new head coach Chip Kelly’s success is unpredictable, the 49ers will likely need a rebuilding before getting back on top. It is imperative that Oakland take advantage of a light early schedule with only one of their first eight games against over .500 teams from last year (week six vs. Kansas City). A tough stretch then ensues, with four of their next five against last year’s playoff teams. The Raiders’ season finishes with potentially make or break road division games sandwiched around an intriguing home matchup with the Colts. If the Silver and Black can

Fall Sports, from page 11

win eight of 13 going into this final trio of games, they stand a good chance of being in the playoff picture come January. My prediction: A 6-2 start is wasted after winning only one of the next five, followed by closing the season on a high note with a win in Denver. They will then have to rely on tiebreakers for their 9-7 record to be enough for the Raiders to reach their first playoff game since 2003 Super Bowl. Moving south to Santa Clara, projected week one starting quarterback Blaine Gabbert needs to become the player we all expected him to be when he was drafted 10th overall in 2011. For the fivetime Super Bowl champs to have even a whiff of the Lombardi trophy scramble, Gabbert must drastically improve on his career rate of 1.06 touchdowns per interception. With three division opponents and the defending NFC champions among their first five games, the 49ers will be tested early. The schedule lightens up fwith three winnable games at Buffalo and hosting Tampa

Bay and. New Orleans), but that is short-lived because all of the final eight games are either on the road (five) and/or against teams that won double digit games last season (four). My prediction: San Francisco succumbs to their tough schedule before their week eight bye, winning only one game. Chip Kelly does lead his team to victories over Dallas, New Orleans and Atlanta on his way to a 3-13 record while planning for the future. With the tough division that is the NFC West, the Niners unfortunately will be cellar dwellers for the second consecutive season. My NFL prediction: A determined Tom Brady leads the New England Patriots over the Chiefs in the AFC title game, but Carson Palmer is destined to finally get a ring as he leads his Arizona Cardinals into Lambeau Field for the NFC title game at Green Bay and then into Houston to win Super Bowl LI: Arizona over New England 23-21.

large number of runners for each division. We look to be competitive and use the new talent of the league to raise our own level.” DAL has Wednesday center meets for all 12 teams on Sept. 28 at Hidden Valley Park in Martinez and Oct. 26 at Newhall Park in Concord. The center meets will be scored as dual meets. The league championship meet is at Hidden Valley Park on Saturday, Nov. 5, with the NCS Meet of Champions Nov. 19 and the state meet a week later. Boys & Girls Cross Country – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, College Park, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, Berean Christian, CVCHS, Concord, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley.

captains Andrey Pristinsky and Cameron Brandt, senior Max Silverberg and sophomore Calan Brown are the experienced players on the team with Brandt and Brown returning starters who earned honorable mention allleague mention in 2015. Senior goalies Matt Fryer and Donovan Hunter are back as well. The team lost league MVP Scott Meylan and all-leaguers Ben Robinow, Anthony Vines and Ryan Levy. Because there are eight teams in the Foothill Conference league matches begin next Wednesday, Sept. 14, and continue through a single-round of games ending Oct. 26. The NCS tournament is Nov. 2-12. Both CVCHS teams were in the playoffs last year. Girls & Boys Water Polo – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, College Park, CVCHS, Concord, Ygnacio Valley, Hercules, Pinole Valley, St. Patrick-St. Vincent.

Berean Christian, CVCHS, return with the stated goal of Concord, Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio returning to the state champiValley. onships. Paris Ruiz has joined the varCROSS COUNTRY sity after a successful freshman Cross country coach Antho- season and he is joined by junior ny Munch enters his fourth year Matt Hyland and sophomore with the program saying, “We newcomer Nick Harrison. are in a tough new 12-team On the girls’ side, junior league, so we will have great Kelly Osterkamp leads the varsicompetition all season long. The ty squad after her two all-DVAL girls will have many new faces performances. She is joined by on the varsity team, while the veteran seniors Natalie Ruzicka boys are integrating last years’ and Sarah Verderame as they try younger runners into varsity to graduate with a DAL Valley positions.” Conference championship. Based on their 2015 success Soph Jessica Hevener and at NCS (third place in DII) and captain Talia Bullock are other state (first time in 13 years for leading varsity hopefuls. the school) the Eagle boys have Munch adds, “The new been moved up to Division I. DAL is going to be one of the WATER POLO Junior Dylan White figures more competitive leagues in the Both boys coach Nick to lead the Eagles again this year North state. Campolindo and after taking fifth at NCS as a Miramonte regularly attend the Ballew and new girls head coach soph. Seniors Michael Cox, John state championships and the Kelsey Carrigan expect their Perez and Branden Bizicki also league races are going to have a teams to challenge for Foothill Conference titles this year with Carrigan saying her team has “potential to be one of the best within the last five years of the program.” Bailey Reading has been allleague the past two years while her senior classmate goalie Krystal Skyy Burney set a school record for blocks in a season last year. Seniors Haley Darr and Caitlin O’Leary plus junior Brooke Johnson are other key returnees. New to varsity but figuring as potential starters are junior Margaret York, soph Camille Cline and freshmen Camylle Callahan and goalie Jordan Frost. Photo courtesy Lackey family Carrigan can call on the wisKim Lackey of Clayton celebrated her 57th birthday this dom of assistant Dennis Bledweek and must feel much younger after winning the United States Tennis Association National Senior Grass soe who dates back to the beginCourt women’s 30 championship earlier this summer at nings of the Clayton Valley Forest Hills, NY. Top seed Lackey (left) defeated second aquatics program and coached seed Erin Flemming (right) of Dallas 6-2, 6-1 in the sinCarrigan when she played for gles finals. Competing in her age group she paired with the Eagles. Ann Pellow to take second in women’s 50 doubles. TourBallew’s boys have “set a goal nament director Dina Ingersole (center) presented the to win our new division within singles trophy to Lackey. A week later in Germantown, our league. Top competition in Penn. Lackey and Pellow were third in USTA National the division this year is College Grass Court 55 doubles. Park and Alhambra.” Senior

Clayton’s own Kim Lackey showed her tennis prowess to younger foes at Nationals

• A Full Service Funeral Home offering • Cremation and Burial Services • Celebrations of Life • Reception Packages • Worldwide Shipping & Pre-Planning

Email any comments or questions to sports@claytonpioneer.com.

GIRLS GOLF New CVCHS coach John Arviola has a team that’s seniorladen with Reyna Khalilieh, Jaylyn Arviola and Morgan Christensen varsity returnees along with freshman Jenna Fassio. Christensen is a returning allleague honorable mention golfer. Four-year all-DVAL standout Rebecca Walsh is the key loss to graduation. For the third year in a row CVCHS is also fielding a junior varsity squad. The DAL league tournament will be held Monday, Oct. 17, with the NCS qualifiers a week later followed by the Tournament of Championships on Halloween. Girls Golf – Valley: Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas, Miramonte, Northgate. Foothill: Alhambra, CVCHS, College Park, Concord, Ygnacio Valley.

Bruce & Zoey

We repair all major appliances, most major brands, and we’re local

Over 35 years Experience

Bruce & Holly Linsenmeyer Clayton residents

Office: (925) 672-2700 Cell: (925) 956-8605

State of California B.E.A.R license #A44842

http://ApplianceRepairsbyBruce.com

Page 13

CLAYTON FURNITURE INC. End of r A Family Business e since 1988 m m Su ! Sale

(925) 686-2299

3400 Clayton Rd. Concord, CA 94519

Claytonfurnitureinc.com

Everything from home repair & maintenance to construction • EXTERIOR: painting, windows, doors, decks, outdoor structures. • INTERIOR: plumbing, drywall, electrical, trim, tile.

Specializin g in deferred m aintenance , prepping home for sa le, repairs from home insp ections

Gary Romano

787-2500

Reliable & Professional Service Owner operated Over 35 years of experience

Lic. 979406

Offering All-Season • • • •

Training & Riding Instruction

Private Riding Lessons Western & English Beginner to Advanced Youth to Adult

925.301.7496

3141 Morgan Territory Rd., Clayton

www.EarthquakeArabians.com

UTOPIC GARDENS

925-448-2214 Beautifully Lawn-Less

CREATIVE DESIGN & INSTALLATION

www.UtopicGardens.com LIC. No. 898331

Fully Insured

Clayton Resident

Page 14

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 9, 2016

Performing Arts

CBCA grant supports Clayton Theatre Company

SALLY HOGARTY

STAGE STRUCK

Congratulations to Clayton Theatre Company for receiving a well-deserved grant from the Clayton Business and Community Association. The $6,000 will cover the royalty fees for the company’s fall production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” which runs Oct. 1329 at Clayton’s Endeavor Hall. “This is a wonderful musical for the whole family to enjoy that will tug at your heartstrings,” says director Roxanne Pardi. Pardi noted that this grant represents a new direction for both the civic organization and Clayton Theatre Company, which is in its fourth year. According to Pardi, the CTC Board and staff have worked very hard to keep the company afloat from year to year, and this year’s rising overhead threatened the future of the young company. For tickets, visit www.brownpapertickets.com. Pittsburg Community Theatre opens its season with the popular musical “Fiddler on the Roof,” Sept. 16-25 at the California Theatre in downtown Pittsburg. Directed by Steven Mergogey-Conti and

Mellopix.com

CINDY GOLDFIELD, JEREMY KAHN AND MAUREEN MCVERRY take the leads in Center Rep’s comedy “It Shoulda Been You,” now at the Lesher Center.

with musical direction by Carille Bruno-Thayer, the show is set in the little village of Anatevka. Tevye, a poor dairyman, and his wife are raising five daughters with the help of their colorful and tight-knit Jewish community. For more information, go to www.pittsburghcommunitytheatre.org.

(R)Evolution is in the air as this year’s Eugene O’Neill Festival focuses on both revolution and evolution. Headlining the festival is Edward Albee’s “Seascape” (through Sept. 18) and Eugene O’Neill’s “The Emperor Jones” (Sept. 23-Oct. 2). In Albee’s play, a highly evolved couple, who just happen to be lizards, befriend a human couple in marital dif-

THE HIGHLIGHT OF THIS YEAR’S EUGENE O’NEILL FESTIVAL, subtitled (R)Evolution, features “Seascape” and “The Emperor Jones” at Danville’s Village Theatre.

ficulty. O’Neill’s drama deals with a dice game, murder and the emperor of a Caribbean island. “Seascape” is at the Village Theatre, 233 Front St., Danville. “Emperor” is at the Old Barn at Tao House in the Danville hills. Other events at the festival include the premiere of an original play, a tour of the historic Tao House and a screening of Ric Burns’ documentary on O’Neill. For a detailed schedule, call 925820-1818 or go to the website www.eugeneoneill.org. Onstage Theatre celebrates love later in life with its production of Joe DiPietro’s “The Last Romance,” Sept. 16-Oct. 1 at the Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. Romance is in the air when an 80-year-old widower decides to take a different path on his morning walk. Meeting an elegant but distant woman renews his boy-

ish charm as this hilarious yet warm-hearted story unfolds. Helen Means directs with Bill Dietz as the widower, Sheilah Morrison as Carol, Lynn Elizondo as Ralph’s sister and Davey Towers as a younger Ralph. Tickets are Kevin Berne $10-$18. Call 925-518-3277. ALDO BILLINGSLEA, RIGHT, STARS AS THE FAMOUS MOOR in Cal Center Repertory’s hilarious musical “It Should Have Been You” opens Sept. 2 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Talk about a wedding disaster. The bride and groom’s families come from wildly different cultures and clash on everything. Then the bride’s ex-boyfriend arrives and brings the wedding to a screeching halt. Hysterical chaos ensues as plots are hatched, promises broken and secrets exposed. Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org.

Shakes "Othello" with James Carpenter as Iago.

are the labels carried by Shakespeare’s most famous Moor as he’s climbed the military ranks. But surviving in battle in faraway lands doesn’t begin to compare to the tragedy he will suffer at home. Cal Shakes’ artistic director Eric Ting dir ects a gripping and provocative interpretation of the Bard’s “Othello,” Sept. 14-Oct. 9 at the Bruns Amphitheater, 100 California Shakespeare Theater Way, Orinda. Aldo Billingslea stars as the famous Moor, with Liz Sklar as DesBlack, Muslim, outsider demona. Call 510-548-9666 or go to www.calshakes.org.

Also in Orinda, the Orinda Starlight Village Players present “Love, Sex and the IRS,” Sept. 10-Oct. 1 at the Orinda Community Center Park Amphitheater, 29 Orinda Way. The comedy has enough mistaken identities and sub-plots to make even fraudulent tax returns seem funny. Call 925-5389225 for reservations. Sally Hogarty is well known around the Bay Area as a newspaper columnist, theatre critic and working actress. She is also the editor of the Orinda News. Send comments to sallyhogarty@gmail.com

Steven W Mergogey-Conti BILL DIETZ, SHEILAH MORRISON AND LYNN ELIZONDO star in PITTSBURG COMMUNITY THEATRE’S “FIDDLER ON THE ROOF” star- Onstage Theatre’s “The Last Romance,” at the Campbell in ring Alicia Nicole Andreatta-Jacques as Hodel and James Martinez through Oct. 1. Coniglio as Tevye opens Sept. 16.

Play ponders a world with Charles as king

A.C.T. OPENS ITS SEASON SEPT. 14 with “King Charles, III,” at the Geary Theater, San Francisco through Oct. 9.

With its witty echoes of Shakespearean drama, Mike Bartlett’s brilliant contemporary work “King Charles III” blurs the boundaries of truth and tragedy. In this speculative history, Queen Elizabeth is dead and Prince Charles ascends to the throne. The play comes to the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco Sept. 14Oct. 9. Flanked by wife Camilla and sons William and Harry, Charles challenges an uncompromising Parliament, but it is his daughter-in-law, Princess Kate, who shows the real

ambition for the sceptered isle. Is Charles the man who would be king, or was he born to succeed only in name? Nominated for five 2016 Tony Awards, this imaginative glimpse of future history is a theatrical event of crowning achievement. “King Charles III” is a co-production with Seattle Repertory Theatre and the Shakespeare Theatre Company of Washington, D.C. It’s written by Bartlett and directed by David Muse. Tickets are $20-$105. The theater is at 415 Geary St., San Francisco. For more information, call 415-749-2228 or visit act-sf.org.

September 9, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Free service helping families find that special place for their loved one. • Meet with senior and family to assess needs.

• Referrals to Assisted Living, Retirement, Residential Care, Hospice and Memory Care facilities.

• Guiding family every step of the way and assisting with required paperwork.

Lori Baca

925-698-1867

In business since 2001

#6020950740 CDSS Community Care Licensing Division

“Helping seniors live successfully in their own homes.”

JOIN

THE FUN

3rd Annual Sunday Supper Fundraiser & Silent Auction

Sunday Oct. 23, 5-9 p.m.

La Veranda, 6201 Center St., Clayton. No Host Bar $45/person (Payable in advance. Sorry, no walk-ins.)

Ref: DVFA Tax ID # 51-0138186

Reservations & Payments due NTL Oct. 18

Call Jeanne Boyd (925) 672-3672

www.claytonvalleyvillage.org

Page 15

sy ay Ea Sundtening Lismusic 4-7pm ucing

Introd

Live

6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440

Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept.

Entertainment from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

9, 10 ............................................The Relyks 16, 17..............................Crossman Country 23, 24 .................................Bollinger Station 30, Oct. 1 ..............................Blues Healers

Karaoke Mon. & Wed. nights Open Mic Thur. nights, 8-11 pm

www.claytonclubsaloon.com

2 for the price of 1

Clayton Community Calendar

Beer only. Good anytime with original coupon. Exp. 10/6/16

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. SEPT 28 FOR THE OCT. 7 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO calendar@claytonpioneer.com

IN CLAYTON

Thru Sept. 11 9/11 Remembrance

Flags for each firefighter and police officer lost in 9/11 are on the lawn at Clayton Fire Station 11. The public is welcome and encouraged to visit and pay their respects. 6500 Center St., Clayton.

Saturdays thru Sept. 24 Farmers’ Market

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. 6095 Main St., Clayton. pcfma.org.

Sept. 10 Saturday Concerts in the Grove

East Bay Mudd. 6 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. ci.clayton.ca.us.

Sept. 17 Wildfire Open House

Learn how to prepare your family and community for wildfire. 2 – 4 p.m. Clayton Fire Station 11. 6500 Center St., Clayton. cccfpd.org/exterior-hazards.php or diablofiresafe.org.

Sept. 24 – 25 Skip Ipsen Memorial Bocce Tournament

Inaugural open bocce tournament in memory of Skip Ipsen. Sponsored by Clayton Business and Community Association. 12 – 6 p.m. Ipsen Family Bocce Park, 6000 Main St., Clayton. $400 per team. claytonbocce.org/event/ipsen.

Sept. 30 – Oct. 2 Oktoberfest

Sponsored by the CBCA. Music by The Internationals, biergarten, food, arts and crafts, carnival. 6 – 10 p.m. Fri., carnival only; 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sat.; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sun. Downtown Clayton. Free admission. claytonoktoberfest.com.

Oct. 3 November Ballot Measures

Kay James from the League of Women Voters speaks about the pros and cons of several upcoming propositions. Sponsored by Clayton Library and Clayton American Association of University Women. 7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. Free. Call 672-3411 for more information.

Oct. 13 - 29 “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

Presented by Clayton Theatre Company. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. $20-$25. claytontheatrecompany.com.

Mondays Off the Grid

IN CONCORD

Rotating lineup of food trucks. 5 – 9 p.m. 2151 Salvio Street. offthegridsf.com.

Tuesdays Farmers’ Market

Tuesdays year round, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.

Thursdays Music and Market

Thursday night live music and farmers’ market. Music: Sept. 15, The Purple Ones. Market 4 – 8 p.m.; music 6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityofconcord.org.

3rd Sundays Antique Faire

Antiques, collectibles, handmade arts and crafts. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free admission. concordantiquefaire.com.

On Sale Now Concerts

The Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road. livenation.com. Concert schedule for 2016: Sept. 10, Fifth Harmony, 7 p.m. Sept. 18, Daryl Hall and John Oates, 7 p.m.

Sept. 12 Stroke Support Group

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4000 Clayton Road, Concord. Nominal fee to cover the training and materials. Must attend both workshops. dvlc.tripod.com. To register, call (925) 685-3881 or send email to dvlc4esl@gmail.com.

ON AND AROUND THE MOUNTAIN

Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve programs are available for registration through ebparks.org. Parking fees may apply. For additional information, contact Black Diamond Visitor Center at (510) 544-2750 or bdvisit@ebparks.org.

Thru November Hazel-Atlas Mine Tours

Learn about the mining history and geology at Black Diamond Mines. Guided, 90-minute tour; Saturdays and Sundays. Must be age 7 or older with parent. $5. For reservation and ticket information, go to ebparks.org.

Sept. 11 Homestead Hike

Visit a prominent ranching family’s homestead. 8:30 – 11 a.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines Park Offices.

Sept. 18 Late Summer Evening Hike

Enjoy the sights and sounds of twilight. 6:30 – 9 p.m. Meet at Black Diamond Mines Upper Parking Lot. Registration required.

Mount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are free with the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and click on Event Calendar for more information.

Sept. 10 Curry Point to Oyster Point Hike

Fast-paced destination hike. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Meet at Curry Point. Reservations required: eagleeyedesign@att.net.

Sept. 11 The California Tarantula

Have a close encounter with these fascinating and harmless spiders. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summit Museum.

Save Mount Diablo programs listed are free unless otherwise noted. Go to savemountdiablo.org and click on Activities/Guided Hikes for more information. 947-3535.

Sept. 25 Mount Diablo Challenge

Family-friendly, 11.2-mile, timed bike ride. Registration 7 a.m. Monte Vista High School, 3131 Stone Valley Road, Danville. $100. Contact Karen at kferriere@savemountdiablo.org.

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Thru Oct. 8 “It Shoulda Been You”

Hilarious and heartwarming musical that is a culture clash for the ages. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $37-$63. centerrep.org

Sept. 10 Erik “Awesome” Alston

Pittsburg’s comedian. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $10-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Sept. 11 “Ol’ Blue Eyes and Friends”

Frank Sinatra tribute with Jonathan Poretz. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $25. elcampaniltheatre.com.

Sept. 16 – 25 “Fiddler on the Roof”

Rich in historical detail. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $10-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Sept. 16 – Oct. 1 “The Last Romance”

A heartwarming story about getting a second chance at love at any age. Presented by Onstage Theatre. Martinez Campbell Theatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $10-$18. 518-3277.

Sept. 17

Speaker: Jo McCord from Family Caregiver Alliance. Topic: Care- Delta Blues Festival Music, arts and crafts, food. 12 – 7:30 p.m. Antioch’s Rivertown giving: Taking Care of Yourself and Others. 7 – 9 p.m. Concord Room 1, John Muir Medical Center, Concord Campus, 2540 East District. Free admission. deltabluesfestival.net. St., Concord. Free. Contact Ann Dzuna 376-6218.

Sept. 15, 29 Preventing Falls

Sept. 18 Opening Night

Presented by California Symphony. 4 p.m. Lesher Center for the Workshops hosted by Concord Senior Center. Sept. 15 from 9:30 Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $42-$72. – 10:30 a.m. Sept. 29 from 9:30 – 11 a.m. 2727 Parkside Circle, lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Concord. $3. Registration required: concordreg.org. Contact Sept. 23 – 24 Dario Sanchez at 671-3017.

Sept. 21 Leadership in Sustainability Awards Gala

“Dance Series 01”

Presented by Smuin Ballet. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $57-$73. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Paying tribute to those who demonstrate outstanding commitment Sept. 24 - 25 to implementing sustainable practices and inspiring change. 6 – 9 p.m. Concord Hilton, 1970 Diamond Blvd., Concord. $50. sus- “Now and Then” Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra performs. 2 p.m. Sept. 24, El tainablecoco.org/awards. Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $7 - $15. elcamSept. 24 paniltheatre.com. Sept. 25, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $10-$30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469. Hawaiian Fusion Polynesian culture and Hawaiian-fusion buffet fundraiser sponsored by Concord Senior Center. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. 2727 Sept. 25 “Let’s Hang On” Parkside Circle, Concord. $50. cityofconcord.org/hawaiianfuFrankie Valli tribute. 3 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second sion. Contact Caryl Tynan at 671-3321. St., Antioch. $25-$27. elcampaniltheatre.com.

Sept. 24, Oct. 1 English Tutors Needed

Help local adults read, write and speak English. Diablo Valley Literacy Council teaches volunteers how to be a tutor. English need not be your first language. No teaching experience required.

Oct.1 Magic and Comedy

Ryan Kane performs. 8 p.m. El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $20. elcampaniltheatre.com.

Oct. 1 “PaPa’S BaG: A James Brown Experience”

Enjoy the electrifying performance of a music icon. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $17-$20. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Oct. 7 – 30 “The Fantasticks”

A timeless, romantic tale of a boy, a girl and their fathers’ schemes to get the two married. Presented by OMG, I Love That Show! Productions. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $39. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Oct. 7 – Nov. 5 “1776”

The most fascinating leaders in American history come to life in a musical about the birth of a nation. Performed by the Contra Costa Musical Theatre. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $50-$55. ccmt.org.

Oct. 8 “Elect to Laugh”

Political comedy for people who don’t like politics with Will Durst. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$25. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

CHURCHES AND WORSHIP

Sept. 17 Concert

The Noyo Consort performs. 7:30 p.m. Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. $15. cvpresby.org.

FUNDRAISERS

2nd and 4th Sundays Pancake Breakfast

Veterans of Foreign Wars serve breakfast to the public: Eggs, pancakes, sausage, beverage. 8 – 11 a.m. VFW Post 1525, 2290 Willow Pass Road, Concord. $5, $3 children under 12. vfwpost1525.org.

Sept. 17 Plant Sale

Next to last sale of the year. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Markham Regional Arboretum Society Nursery. 1202 La Vista Ave., Concord. Free admission. markhamarboretum.org.

Sept. 24 Black Tie Event

Music, dinner, auction benefiting Pillars of Hope. 5:30 – 10 p.m. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton. $100. pillarsofhope.us.

Sept. 24 Red, White and Brew

Wine and craft beer tasting sponsored by Contra Costa Blue Star Moms. 1 – 3:30 p.m. Concord Police Association, 5060 Avila Road, Concord. $35 per person or two for $60. fundraisers@ccbluestarmoms.org.

Oct. 8 Afternoon Tea Party

Sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1525 Auxiliary. 2 – 4 p.m. Oak Park Christian Center, 2073 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. $25. Email vfwaux1525@gmail.com for tickets and additional information.

AT THE LIBRARY

The Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonlibrary.org or call 673-0659.

Sept. 12, 26: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m. Sept. 12: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m. Sept. 21: Protect Your Assets, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 28: Contra Costa County’s Community Warning System, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 29: Hooray for Fish, 4 p.m. Sept. 29 – Oct. 26: Guess the Weight of the Library Pumpkin Oct. 3: November Ballot Measures, 7 p.m. Oct. 5: The Paper Airplane Guy, 7 p.m.

The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free unless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or 646-5455. Sept. 10: AARP Free Tax Assistance, 10 a.m. Sept. 12, Oct. 3: Movie Monday, 7 p.m. Sept. 13: Crafty Tuesday, 4 p.m. Registration required. Sept. 17: Summer Art Show, 10 a.m. – 4p.m. Sept. 19: Explore Code.org, 7 p.m. Registration required. Sept. 22: Concord Library Refresh Celebration, 5 p.m. Sept. 23 – 25: Book Sale, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fri. and Sat.; 1 – 3 p.m. Sun. Sept. 26: STEAM, 7 p.m. Registration required. Sept. 29: Master Gardeners, 6:30 p.m. Oct. 6: Origami, 4 p.m.

GOVERNMENT

1st and 3rd Tuesdays Clayton City Council

7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

2nd and 4th Tuesdays Clayton Planning Commission

7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 6737304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

Page 16

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 9, 2016

Porter’s ‘Grief ’ strives to make sense of death

Max Porter’s brilliant and wildly creative debut novel, “Grief is the Thing With Feathers,” is nothing if not a walk on the dark side.

Porter has created the ultimate unreliable narrator. Mainly this takes shape as three points of view: an unnamed Dad, who is strug-

Author deftly covers the plight of wild mustangs

SUNNY SOLOMON

FOR

THE

BOOKS

Readers who come to Bookin’ with Sunny, those in the Bay Area and those in the high desert of northern Nevada are already familiar with author Terri Farley’s love affair with the wild horses known as mustangs. Her “Phantom Stallion” series for middle and young adult readers has been popular since first published in 2002. And for good reason. These are not teen romances under the guise of horse stories. Farley writes not about the heart, but from the heart. She understands the connection between girls and horses (and boys, as well). Her latest book, “Wild at Heart, Mustangs and the Young People Fighting to Save Them,” should be in the hands of every horse lover, young or old. What makes “Wild” so essential is the depth of Farley’s coverage exposing the plight of America’s mustangs. Her book is wonderfully put together. It begins with a personal introduction about the fight to allow the wild horses to live on public lands. That’s followed in Chapter One with an homage to Wild Horse Annie. Also known as Velma Johnston, she’s the one-woman powerhouse who brought about the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act, passed by Congress in 1971. In chapters 2-5, Farley approaches the historic, scientific, behavioral and political background, covering such questions as: Are present-day mustangs merely interlopers and not native to our continent? Do they really decimate the grasslands that should rightly only be grazed by cattle? The facts will blow some minds.

Within these chapters are inserts, called “Eyewitness.” These short, personal insights highlight the author’s experience, as well as one from Pulitzer Prize winning photographer Melissa Farlow, whose work enhances the beauty of “Wild.” These inserts break into the fact-based content just long enough to keep the reader’s interest heightened. Other inserts deal with the difficult subjects of slaughterhouses and Bureau of Land Management roundups. “Wild at Heart” is a passionate book, but it’s a passion reached through years of research, observation and careful thought. As tough as her subject is, like Wild Horse Annie, she turns to children as messengers in the last section of the book. She introduces us to children who have rescued mustangs and trained them, and even a young boy who has gone to the halls of Congress to advocate for them. Continue to read Farley’s fictional horse stories, but don’t miss this very special book. It will not only touch your heart but also engage your mind. The next time the subject of what should happen to our public lands and the wild animals that live there comes up, reach for “Wild at Heart.” Between Farley’s text and Farlow’s photography, the answers are there. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt; Photography by Melissa Farlow. Sunny Solomon is a freelance writer and head of the Clayton Book Club. Visit her website at bookinwithsunny.com for her latest recommendations or just to ‘talk books.’

gling with the freakish reality of the sudden and tragic death of his wife; his two unnamed Boys; and Crow. The last is a bird equally Greek Chorus, tormentor and comic relief who provides support to the broken family as they come to terms with their loss. Grief is an experience that is strange, bewildering and completely extraordinary. It’s difficult to make sense of it. In this context, if someone you know and love can suddenly disappear, then why not accept Crow as comforter and catalyst for emotional healing? Crow might as easily be Dancing Bear or Coach or Priest. Crow is kind yet dangerous. He speaks in a prose poem that doesn’t make sense until the reader relinquishes the need for sense: “Very romantic, how we first met. Badly behaved. Trip trap. Two-bed upstairs flat, slitlevel, slight barbed-error, snuck in easy through the wall and up the attic bedroom

to see those cotton boys silently sleeping, intoxicating hum of innocent children, lint, flack, gack-pack-nack, the whole place was heavy mourning, every surface dead Mum, every crayon, tractor, coat, welly, covered in a film of grief.” It makes no sense, but it is strangely persuasive. Dad is dealing with a lost wife, two small sons, bottomless grief and a book deadline because life must go on. His book-in-progress is called

“Ted Hughes’ Crow on the Couch: A Wild Analysis.” Perhaps this is why Crow shows up as grief personified. In any case, Crow makes appearances as copy editor and critic, as well as grief counselor. Reality is a fluid concept, alternating between a father worrying about his motherless sons and the intrusion of a feathered protagonist. However, as the Who remind us, “The Kids are Alright.” The Boys live in a world where they create stories to shore up their experience: “Dad and Crow were fighting in the living room. Door closed. There was a low droning cawera skraa, caw, cawera skraa and Dad saying Stop it, Stop it, caw, craw, and the hocking retching, spitting, bad language, cronks, barks, sobs, a weird gamelan jam of broken father sounds and violent bird calls, thumps and shrieks and twinging rips. Crow emerged, ruffled, wideeyed. He gently closed the

CYNTHIA GREGORY

FOR

THE

BOOKS

door behind him and joined us at the kitchen table. We coloured in zoo pictures with our felt-tipped pens and Crow went over the lines.” The narrative makes all the sense in the world, in context. It is all about life imitating art. This is a dazzling debut novel that any lover of language will savor. Cynthia Gregory is a North Bay nonprofit leader, writer of short fiction, and author of a blog. Email comments and questions to Editor@ClaytonPioneer.com

Neo-Western‘Hell or High Water’ possible Oscar contender

JEFF MELLINGER

SCREEN SHOTS

The Western is a dying genre. Apart from the occasional remake like “3:10 to Yuma” or “True Grit,” years can pass between fresh Westerns. For every “Django Unchained,” we get failures such as “Jonah Hex,” “Wild Wild West” and the horrific “Lone Ranger.” For the most part, NeoWesterns have taken over. “Brokeback Mountain,” “No Country for Old Men” and “The Hateful Eight” are all Oscar-nominated Neo-Westerns. It is a safe bet to add David McKenzie’s new film, “Hell or High Water,” to that list. Jeff Bridges was born for the role of soon-to-be-retired Texas Ranger Marcus Hamilton. Every gruff, garbled insult directed at Hamilton’s patient partner Albert (Gil Birmingham) is a treasure trove of unPC hilarity. Albert takes it – throwing it back occasionally – because soon Marcus will be relegated to drinking beer on

the porch. The last thing either of them wants is a major case in their sleepy town of Rome, Texas. And the last thing that brothers Tanner (Ben Foster) and Toby Howard (Chris Pine) want is to bring any attention to their bank robbing scheme. By only stealing the small bills from different branches of the same company, they know it won’t bring any federal heat. Foster plays Tanner with reckless yet focused abandon, while Pine’s Toby is all business. Both men are driven to complete their task quickly, which ups the suspense by adding in a ticking clock. The men have decidedly put family above all else, including their own lives. McKenzie and writer Taylor Sheridan (“Sicario”) are masters at back-and-forth dialogue. At the beginning, it seems unnecessary for the characters to just sit and talk. However, as the plot unfolds and we realize the end game, the conversations become welcome relief to the tension. Foster and Pine nail the brotherly dynamic, as if they had actually grown up together. Each scene with Bridges and Birmingham feels like we are sitting alongside two men

A gruff ranger (Jeff Bridges) and his patient partner (Gil Birmingham) provide un-PC hilarity in ‘Hell or High Water.’

who have been friends for decades. Half of their dialogue is completely unrelated to the plot, yet it’s fascinating just the same. Even the bit players have some of the best lines in the movie. From a flirtatious waitress to a frustrated cowhand, the characters ring true. Cinematographer Giles Nuttgens impeccably captures the feel of a small Texas town. The dust and grit come right through the screen. Every place the characters go – banks, diners, the family ranch – feels like the middle of nowhere. By the time the climax hits,

we know where each character is likely headed. However, we have grown so fond of them that there is absolute dread regarding any possible adverse outcome. Few films can keep the tension high right up until the credits begin to roll. Kudos to McKenzie for creating not only a fabulous Neo-Western, but the best movie of 2016 thus far. A Jeff Mellinger is a screen writer and film buff. He holds a BA in Film Studies and an MFA in film production. He lives in Concord. Email comments to editor@claytonpioneer.com.

September 9, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 17

Housing affordability a stressor for women

LYNNE FRENCH

REAL ANSWERS

Q: What is the latest study from the California Association of Realtors called “One Cool Thing”? A: This month it is called “Wonder Women.” Women are making strides in everything from the Olympics to the race for the White House. But despite their growing power, they still face various hurdles. Stresses in their lives include finances (44 percent), relationships (27 percent), work (26 percent), health (25

percent) and time pressures (21 percent). Sixty-seven percent say they cannot possibly save as much money annually as retirement planning tools say they will need to invest to have a comfortable retirement. I want to add that if they are able to own the house they live in, that is automatic forced savings. A home can be considered an investment tool, with the equity gain and amortized payments. Amortization is when during the course of the loan, the principal that you own increases and you are paying less interest until it is paid off. Once you have a certain percentage of equity, you have options such as a reverse mortgage when you reach a certain age. I will address the pros and cons of this investment tool in another column.

Many women (and others of course) are doing just that. Their payment could be lower than rent these days when you include the huge tax deduction you will receive. The problem for some, though, is that qualifications to buy a home are stringent with the new guidelines. Some don’t have enough down payment, their credit isn’t stellar enough or income can’t be proved. So some people continue to rent. Single women and men can’t show a double income to qualify. This a huge stressor for women and men. Q: What are zero energy houses? Is this a fad or are they here to stay? A: They are here to stay and will become the new homes of the near future. Zero energy houses are a new

type of green homes built to return zero dollar energy bills. The houses are becoming universally viable, due to advancements in energy-efficient technology and the declining cost of construction. More than 6,000 houses in the United States and Canada are “zero energy ready.” Of those, 13 percent are able to supply 100-110 percent or more of their annual energy demand. The remainder are able to supply 90 percent of their energy. California is ahead of the curve, and the number of zero energy homes will increase enormously over the next five years. Lawmakers in our golden state have made zero energy technology accessible and affordable to residents. Zero energy homeowners

pay nothing for energy consumption other than a monthly grid fee, and they cut their carbon footprint to near zero. The typical zero energy house is made of thick exterior walls and is outfitted with an efficient HVAC system and solar panels. The home is connected to the grid, so that excess energy generated by the home throughout the day can be distributed back into the grid and power the home at night. I can attest to the desirability of this technology. I live in a home that is in the 90 percent range powered by solar and I have not had an electric bill since we moved here.

combination to help you choose the right accessories to harmonize your look. There are friendly colors directly to the left and right of the original color you picked. Analogous colors can do wonders to your wardrobe because they complement each other. Group your clothes according to colors by stashing them in piles of black, red, yellow, blue, etc. Stand before a goodsized mirror as you drape each piece of clothing around your body. It is best to perform the assessment with someone who can give you an honest opinion. The process will help you pick colors that flatter and

make you look healthy, while also identifying non-complementing colors that make you look aged and tired. The color category will help you build a wardrobe that look best on you. Take a piece from each color group and add a piece from one of the piles. Match them against your skin to determine if the combination suits you differently. If you’re satisfied with how you look in certain colors and

combinations, have it captured in photo so you can take it along on your next shopping trip. Here are some other color tips: Color tends to be at play when it’s nearest the face. If you love a particular color that doesn’t suit your hairstyle or eye color, try wearing it away from these parts – such as a handbag or shoes. You may have a favorite dress, but it doesn’t enhance your appearance. Combine it

Q: How are interest rates holding lately? A: They are at historic lows. Freddy Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) has

released this information. For example, the 30-year fixed mortgage averaged 4.04 percent a year ago and now averages 3.45 percent, up from one week ago when it averaged 3.42 percent. The 15-year mortgage averages 2.75 percent, up from 2.72 percent last week and 3.21 percent a year ago. For a number of reasons, including what is happening in Europe, they don’t expect significant movement in mortgage interest rates in the near future. This remains a wonderful time to buy a home or refinance an existing mortgage. Send your question and look for your answer in a future column. Email Lynne@LynneFrench.com. French is the broker/owner of Windermere Lynne French & Associates. Contact her at 672-8787 or stop in at 6200 Center St., Clayton.

Flip through color wheel to enhance your wardrobe

It can be amazing when someone wears two opposite colors that look good combined. Chances are, the wearer knows her undertone and she can play with the color wheel adeptly. The color wheel is an illustrative organization of color hues showing the relationship between primary, secondary and complementary colors. There’s an invisible line that splits the wheel in half to indicate the warm and cool sides. If you pick any color and trace your finger to its direct opposite on the wheel, you will get two complementary colors: a warm and a cool color. If the colors complement on the

SUSAN SAPPINGTON

CLOTHES UP

wheel, they are most likely to look great in clothing. To determine the most flattering look for you, place the color on the wheel that works best for your skin tone near your face. It will set the color

Ph: 925.672.9840 CST #2033054-40

travel-2-go.com

Like us on

Clayton Station Shopping Center 5439, Clayton Road (Suite F) – Clayton, CA

* Sample price is per person, based on a 7-night stay in double occupancy in a Club category room on select weeks at Chamonix, France. Prices on other dates, room categories and/or at other resorts may vary. Blackout dates apply, including holidays and other dates. Offer requires a 7-night minimum stay. Available at select resorts. Does not include airfare. Valid for new individual bookings only for select travel dates from November 27, 2016 through April 16, 2017 and must be booked by September 30, 2016. Offer is subject to capacity control and may increase at any time. General Conditions: Blackout dates apply, including holidays and other dates. Club Med Membership fees of $60 per adult and $30 per child are additional. Other restrictions apply including brochure terms and cancellation/change fees. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. CST#: 2020955-50.

with your winning color and you’ll discover a great difference. Always project confidence in whatever piece of clothing you wear. It is still the best look anyone can have, regardless of outfit.

The fall/winter show for Etcetera Women’s Clothing and J. Hilburn Custom Clothing for Men will be in Clayton Oct. 9-14. Contact me for your personal appointment.

Susan Sappington is the Area Development Manager and Wardrobe Consultant for ETCETERA Clothing of New York. Send comments to susan@etcstyles.com.

Page 18

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Pets

FREE ESTIMATES •Lawn & Plant Installation

•Paver Patio & Walkway

•Retaining Walls •Drainage •Low Voltage Lighting

925-672-9955

www.nicholslandscape.com Lic. 542812 Fully Insured

Boyce Nichols - Owner Clayton Resident

Time for an update?

Call Interiors Panache!

Call or n ra email fo ent appointmy toda

925-672-7920

Full-Service Design Firm

• Design consultations • Remodels, Kitchens & Baths • Hunter Douglas Priority Dealer • 25 years of design experience – model homes, commercial • Major furniture brands & residential at a discount • Clayton resident for 18 years • Licensed general contractor

6160 Center St, Clayton CA carol@interiorspanache.com

www.interiorspanache.com

September 9, 2016

Understand when a stressed dog might be about to bite

DEBBIE DEMELLO

PAUSE

FOR

PETS

It’s on the news frequently. Someone gets bitten by a dog and frequently, the bite is severe. Many if not most bites can be prevented. It’s not often a dog bites “out of the blue” as is sometimes said. To reduce the number of injuries from dog bites both adults and children should be educated about bite prevention and of course dog owners should practice responsible ownership. Understanding dog body language is key to prevention. You need to be aware of the signs dogs give to indicate that they are feeling anxious, afraid or threatened. An anxious or scared dog may try to make himself look smaller. He may shrink to the ground, lower his head, lick his lips, put his tail between his legs, flatten his ears back and even yawn. He may look away to avoid direct eye contact. Alternatively, he may try to turn away or slowly move away from what he perceives as a threat. If the dog cannot

Please Recycle this paper

THINK THIS PICTURE IS CUTE? LOOK AGAIN. This dog is clearly uncomfortable and is using his whole body to say so. Learn to read dog body language and teach children safe behavior around dogs.

retreat he may feel he has no other alternative but to defensively growl, snarl or even bite. Continuing to approach a dog showing these signs could very well result in a bite. Many dogs show a mixture of these body postures which might mean they feel conflicted. Avoid any dog showing any signs of fear or anxiety or aggression no matter what else the dog is doing. A wagging tail or crouching body doesn’t always mean friendliness. Practice safety tips for chil-

dren. Any dog can bite. From the smallest to the largest, even the most friendly, cute and easygoing dogs might bite if they are provoked. You can help protect your child from dog bites by discussing the appropriate way to behave around dogs. • Never approach or touch any dog who is sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy or bone or caring for puppies. • Never approach a barking, growling or scared dog. • Don’t pet unfamiliar dogs

without asking permission from the dog’s owner. • Don’t try to pet dogs that are behind a fence or in a car. Dogs often protect their home or other space. If a child sees a dog off leash outside he should not approach the dog and should immediately notify and adult. Debbie DeMello is a dog trainer and owner of Who’s Training Who in Walnut Creek. Contact her at debdemello@aol.com

Bambi and Aria are September’s ARF stars

BAMBI

Four-year-old Bambi is a happy go lucky girl looking for someone to cuddle with. She enjoys walks through the neighborhood, tasty snacks, and soft comfy pillows. Bambi has a positive history with other dogs. We recommend Bambi take a Basic Manners class where she can learn polite ways of seeking creature comforts in life. She currently weighs 10 pounds. The adoption fee for dogs is $250 and includes a discount

ARIA

on the first six-week session of cue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell a manners class. Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Five-month-old Aria is an Wednesday & Thursday, Noon adorable girl with the cutest to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 black dot on her nose. She pm Saturday & Sunday. enjoys petting and cuddling as Would you like to be part of the well as playtime. She is suitable heroic team that saves the lives of for a first time cat guardian. rescued dogs and cats? Can you Aria has a positive history with share your talents to connect people other cats. and animals? ARF volunteers are The adoption fee for kit- making a difference! For more infortens less than 6 months $125. mation see our website, Meet your forever friend at www.arflife.org, or call (925) 256Tony La Russa’s Animal Res- 1ARF.

10 Off %

$500+

Professional Installation of Tile, Stone and Glass Mosaics Certified Fabrication of all Quartz material Complete Remodeling Service New Hours: M/W 1 pm—6:30 pm T/TH/F 11 am—6 pm Sat 11 am—3 pm

925.672.9000; Showroom 925.822.7037; Installation

www.italiantileandstone.com

Clayton Valley Shopping Center • 5420 Ygnacio Valley Rd Suite #40, Concord next to OSH and FrameWorks • Locally Owned by Clayton Residents

September 9, 2016

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Page 19

Doors can open up your home to stunning views JENNIFER LEISCHER

DESIGN & DÉCOR

I recently reread one of my favorite books, “A Room with a View” by E. M. Forster. If you like romantic, witty, wellwritten novels, I recommend this lovely slice of life. The book ends with Lucy Honeychurch and George looking out the window in the pension where they first met, taking in the view of Florence and relishing the moment of complete happiness. Yes, a room with a view certainly is special – from a

RICHARD LITTORNO INSIGHT ON

ESTATE PLANNING

When you draft an estate plan, the centerpiece is your will or living trust. Such a document determines who gets what, where, when and how, as well as tying up the loose ends of your estate. A valid will or living trust can be supplemented by other legally binding documents, such as trusts (or additional trusts), powers of attorney and health care directives. But there’s still a place at the table for a document that has absolutely no legal authority: a “letter of instructions” to your heirs. This informal letter can provide valuable guidance and act as a road map to the rest of your estate. TAKING INVENTORY Begin your letter of instruction by stating the location of your will or living trust. Then create an inventory of all your assets, include their location, any account numbers and the relevant contact information. This may include, but isn’t necessarily limited to, the following items: • Checking and savings accounts, • Retirement plans and IRAs, • Health and accident insurance plans,

grand view of Mt. Diablo from your kitchen window, to a meandering view of the Carquinez Strait from your great room or an intimate view of your backyard garden or swimming pool. Blocking them is shameful, so here are a few doors to consider to let the light in and enjoy your perfect view. If you’re looking for a door opening that literally transfigures from a wall of glass to openness, look into “nano” door manufacturers. Some manufacturers call them “scenic doors,” which is exactly their purpose. When closed, the individual doors look like framed (or frameless) glass doors. But they open in a zig-zag pattern and collapse onto each other to opposing sides, leaving an opening as large as the doors you have installed. A variation to this design are sliding doors that vanish into opposing

The right kind of doors can open a whole wall, creating a beautiful room with a view

walls, just like pocket doors. When open, nano doors literally remove an entire wall in your home – erasing any divisions between inside and out. French and sliding doors

are most common for that happy balance of bringing the indoors out and outdoors in. Some French doors can provide you with an opening up to 14 feet wide, and a slider can

open to 16 feet wide. A pivot door is just what you think it is – a door that pivots on an off-center support. The design and layout of

should include the names, phone numbers and addresses (including emails) of the professionals handling your financial accounts and paperwork, such as an attorney, CPA, banker, life insurance agent and stockbroker. Also, list the beneficiaries of retirement plans, IRAs and insurance policies and their contact information. And don’t forget the location of the items and any passwords, PINs or other information needed: Your heirs can’t access a safe without the key or combination.

nature, such as funeral, burial or cremation arrangements, accounting of fees paid for cemetery plots or mausoleums, the names, addresses and telephone numbers of people and organizations to be notified upon death, and specific instructions for handling personal and financial affairs after you’re gone. The letter can also expand on instructions in a living will or other health care directive. For example, it might provide additional details about the decision for being taken off life support systems. It may also cover charitable contributions you wish to

be made after death or the manner in which property should be donated to charity. Although your heirs aren’t bound to follow these instructions, you can state some of your personal preferences. For instance, you might wish for your grandchildren to attend your alma mater, pursue a particular curriculum or maintain a strong presence in the religion of your choice. Furthermore, a letter of instructions may include an “ethical will” explaining your personal beliefs, values and ideology. You can even write your own obituary.

your residence will dictate what door, or series of doors, will work best, as well as the budget you assign to this project. While these fantastic door systems sound amazingly chic, sometimes you don’t have the space or the need for an overthe-top door installation. Often, a picture-perfect window, or series of windows, is more than adequate to open up a living space that is in dire need of a focal point. When taking on a structural change, such as a new door or window, always work with a contractor to optimize the size and quantity of your new decorative accent. Who knows what secret view may be hiding behind a plain interior wall, just waiting to be seen. Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton. Contact her with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.

The write stuff: A letter of instructions

• Business insurance, • Life and disability income insurance, • Records of Social Security and VA benefits, • Stocks, bonds, mutual funds and other investments, • Safe deposit boxes and vaults and their contents, • Information on real estate holdings, • Information on credit cards, loans and debts, • Social Security number and birth certificate, • Passports and other identification papers, • Copies of tax returns, • Any divorce or citizenship papers, and • Any tangible assets not readily found.

GUIDANCE FOR PERSONAL PREFERENCES

Remember that a letter of instructions is more than just a listing of assets and their locations. Typically, it will include The contact information other items of a personal

PUTTING PEN TO PAPER As you’re writing your letter, bear in mind that there are no legal requirements backing it. And just like a will or living trust, the letter should be updated periodically to reflect significant changes in your life. Finally, keep the letter in a safe place where the people whom you want to read it can easily find it.

Richard A. Littorno is an attorney specializing in estate planning. He has offices in Walnut Creek and Pittsburg. Send your questions by email to Richard at Richard@LittornoLaw.com.

Rochellez

Photography

rochellez@live.com 510-677-4170

•Affordable •Fun •Professional •Quality

Rochelle Douglass

OWNER/PHOTOGRAPHER

The world is your stage

What is Your Home Worth? Call us for a free home evaluation today! ACTIVE LISTING

• 229 El Pueblo Pl., Clayton

PORTRAITS - PARTIES - EVENTS

Rent $3,950/mo.

Digital Enhancements - Custom Creations

5 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2643 sq. ft.

www.Rochellezphotography.webs.com

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

• Vacant Land — 14.25 acres in Brentwood

Call for price

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

SOLD • 22 San Carlos Pl., Pittsburg

$339,000 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1,348 sq.ft. Listing agent: Rula Masannat

Book Your Event Between Aug. 1 - Sept. 30

3 FREE ITEMS*

Book Your Event Between Oct. 1 - Oct. 31

2 FREE ITEMS*

Book Your Event Between Nov. 1 - Nov. 30

1 FREE ITEM*

Book Early And Save Call Oakhurst Country Club Now to Book Your Holiday Events!

SELECT FROM: FREE Room Rental

FREE Dessert Buffet FREE Soda On Beverage Station

FREE Appetizer (Limit 1)

Event sales Director - Janan Ali | (925) 672-9737, ext. 217 | Jali@oakhurstcc.com

Matt Mazzei, Jr.,

Paula & Rod Johnstone

Rula Masannat

BRE# 01881269

DRE# 00797857

DRE# 01923757

Broker Associate

Broker/Owner 925-766-6745 matt@mazzeirealty.net

Paula 925-381-8810 Rod 925-286-5765

heypaula10@gmail.com

mazzeirealty.net Clayton residents since 1959

925-693-0757 (Main)

Sales Agent 415-310-2905 rulawithmazzei@yahoo.com

6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton

925-693-0752 (Fax)

Page 20

Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

September 9, 2016

Trees in The Grove excellent Clayton options

Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer

LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE GROVE for shade tree ideas for your sunny Clayton yards.

If you enjoyed any time at the Grove Park in downtown Clayton this summer, you may have noticed how nicely the shade trees are growing. The canopy-style trees planted throughout the picnic table areas, and the roundheaded trees lining the borders at the playground and along Main Street have all grown steadily. Chinese Evergreen Elm and Golden Rain trees surround the picnic tables. Both trees are highly valuable to Clayton gardens and landscapes, providing vertical interest, wind protection and shade. The Chinese Evergreen Elm is also known as Ulmus

parvifolia Drake. This exceptional shade tree has a weeping growth habit. Finely toothed leaves are medium green in color and turn yellow in the autumn. The Chinese Evergreen Elm will lose its leaves if temperatures dip below 30 degrees, but they are fast to regrow. The tree ranges 30-40 feet tall and wide, so consider mature growth when planting. Golden Rain trees have the recognizable, papery seed pods that appear during the summer months. These seed pods are valued by florists and designers, as they make great additions to arrangements. The Golden Rain tree can be found in nurseries under the

name Koelreuteria paniculata. This tree grows with moderate speed. It has wellbehaved roots, which makes it ideal for patio areas and walkways. In spring, yellow flower panicles dangle from the open branch habit. The Golden Rain will reach 20-25 feet tall and almost as wide. The leaves are fern-like and blueish green. Before the leaves fall in autumn, they change to gold – adding more appeal to this beloved shade tree. The rounded trees bordering the playground and Main Street are a combination of pink blooming Crape Myrtle and Chinese Pistache trees. Chinese Pistache trees are a

St. Supéry brings fine wines to farmers market DEBRA MORRIS Pacific Coast Farmers Market

The Clayton Farmer’s Market welcomes St. Supéry Vineyards during September as the season winds down. St. Supéry will be Saturday mornings through Sept 24, with a wide selction of their fine wines. In 1982, Robert Skalli purchased Dollarhide, a 1,500 acre cattle ranch in the northeast mountains of Napa Valley. Today, Dollarhide is home to nearly 500 acres of St. Supéry’s estate-grown vineyards. Shortly after, the Skalli family purchased 56 acres in Rutherford, where the winery stands today. Their vineyards and winery are certified Napa Green, thanks to the sustainable farming methods practiced on their estate vineyards. Emma Swain, CEO of St Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery, takes pride in making sure that the winery maintains its

green standards while still producing some of the best wines in the Napa region. “I think anyone can make good wine in Napa; we want to make fantastic wine,” she says. “Every time you enjoy a St. Supéry Estate wine, I want you to have a ‘wow’ experience.” The winery’s climate yields ripe, luscious grapes that produce well-balanced food wines. The vines are planted on steep terraces, rolling hillsides and benchland. A range of soils and myriad sunlight exposures mean the winemaker has a diversity of fruit from which to create wines layered with density and complexity. “The winemaker’s choice of oak is like a chef ’s choice of ingredients,” notes Michael Scholz, VP of winemaking. “The barrels – we use only seasoned French oak – give us an opportunity for enhancing expression and encouraging

1/8 c. each sherry vinegar and extra virgin olive oil Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

structure and maturity with our cabernet sauvignons.” Along with superb wines, St. Supéry will bring their highly regarded and sustainably grown vegetables to the market. This includes heirloom tomatoes, peppers, melons, Fay Elberta peaches, fresh herbs, fragrant lavender and gorgeous sunflowers. Everything is grown at the Dollarhide orchard and Ruther-

1735 Glazier Dr., Concord

Single-story Crossings Beauty!

4405 Corkwood Ct. Concord

Updated Single Story in The Crossings!

4488 Snowberry Ct. Concord

Bright and sunny 4 bed/2 bath with many updates. Features fresh paint through out, brand new quartz counter tops and new lighting. Includes an inviting back yard space perfect for entertaining.

Offered at $700,000

Turn Key Unit!

Renovated 3 bed/2 bath home in the is very desired community. Updated kitchen with granite counter tops & subway tile back splash, fresh paint through out and new lighting & fixtures. Don't miss it!

Offered at $675,000

Pristine with Privacy!

4884 Myrtle Dr. Concord

This 3 bed/2 bath property is set way back off the main road offering an abundance of privacy. Immaculate home with dark floors, updated kitchen & master suite. Includes a HUGE side yard that can be expanded on, build a guest house or a pool!

Offered at $572,000

Clayton favorite, and can be found planted along our streets and landscapes. This round-headed tree is valued for its exceptional fall color. Look for the selection of Chinese Pistache called Keith Davy. This male doesn’t produce berries. Chinese Pistache trees are the swan of the landscape. While young, this tree can look awkward. But as it matures, the Chinese Pistache becomes spectacular and can reach 2530 feet tall and wide. They will need occasional thinning to expose the beautiful structure. Crape Myrtle trees are the best summer-blooming trees around town The flowers are panicle shaped in pinks, red, lavender and white. This family of ornamental trees thrives in our hot weather and clay soil. Many selections of Crape Myrtle display vivid fall colors. Mature heights and width depend of selection. You can expect anywhere from 10 feet to 20 feet tall, so do some research before planting. Keep these trees in mind as the fall planting season is quickly approaching. Visit the Grove Park and see these fabulous tree selections for yourself. It’s great to get a feel for a tree’s mass before you add it to your landscape.

Nancy sells more than 8 times as many homes as the average realtor, call today to learn how.

Don't miss this pristine single level property! Boasts 4 bed/2 bath, gorgeous kitchen remodel complete with quartz counter top and glass subway tile, refinished hardwood floors and attractive molding. Enjoy relaxing by the sparkling in ground pool!

Offered at $638,000

GARDEN GIRL

Roughly chop the vegetables into 1-inch cubes. Place each vegetable separately into a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Be sure not to overprocess. Place all the chopped vegetables in a large bowl and add the tomato juice, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Mix well and chill before serving. ford culinary garden locations. Gazpacho should rest for a minimum of one hour; five ST. SUPÉRY GARDEN hours is ideal. The longer the GAZPACHO gazpacho sits, the more the fla1 cucumber, halved and vors will meld. seeded, partially peeled Pour three ounces of soup 1 green bell pepper, cored into a small glass and garnish and seeded with finely diced cucumber. Nicole is the Garden Girl at 3 plum tomatoes Accompany soup with crostini. R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. ½ red onion, peeled You can contact her with questions or 1 garlic clove, minced Recipe courtesy of St. Supéry’s comments by email at 1 ½ c. tomato juice culinary team and Ari Spiewak. Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

Nancy E. Bennett Immaculate Pool Home!

NICOLE HACKETT

2600 Jones Rd., #31 Walnut Creek

This is a gorgeous move in ready condo in sought after Walnut Creek. 3 bed/2 bath, beautifully renovated kitchen & baths, lovely dark wood laminate flooring and a private enclosed patio.

Offered at $500,000

Coming Soon!

Concord Cape Cod

Move in ready 4 bed/2 bath 2 story home. Features an updated kitchen, fresh paint, hardwood floors and new carpets in the bedroom.

Walnut Creek Stunner

Absolutely stunning single story home in desired Walnut Creek. Features 4 bed/2 bath, completely remodeled, fantastic designer touches through out and an inviting in ground pool.

We helped over 52 families buy and sell homes again so far in 2016. How can we help you and your family today?

Nancy Bennett, Realtor @ Keller Williams Realty #1 Agent in Concord, #1 Team, Keller Williams East Bay #5 Team Nationally (U.S. & Canada) Keller Williams Agent Leadership Council, Mentor, Faculty Member and Community Sponsor

CalBRE #01399870

Nancy@BennettBetter.com

925.606.8400

BENNETTBETTER.COM