DEC 11 Clayton Pioneer 2015

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What’s InsideAround Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Community Calendar . . . . .13Directory of Advertisers . . . .7Holiday Section . . . . . . . . .8Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14School News . . . . . . . . . . .10

Pete Barra

Seriously, is there anything prettier than downtown Clayton at Christmas? last Saturday’s traditional Treelighting seemed to draw the biggest crowd in recent memory. Things kicked off with Christmas Carols atthe Gazebo by MdeS chorus before Santa rolled up with lights and siren in the vintage 1971 police car.Mayor Howard Geller then led the parade down Main Street to the city’s tree where Santa flipped theswitch, and the Holidays in Clayton officially began.

When I moved to Clayton,never in my wildest dreams did Ithink I would become mayor ofour city. Being appointed Mayorby your peer council for a sec-ond time is an honor I take seri-ously. I want to thank DaveShuey, our outgoing mayor, forthe stellar job he did. I also wantto congratulate our new vicemayor, Jim Diaz, on his appoint-ment.

Clayton mayors write a col-umn for the Clayton Pioneerwithout censorship. Living inClayton for almost 42 yearsand being actively involved inthe community during thattime, I realized years ago noteveryone will agree with yourthoughts or opinions. I alsorealized everyone is entitled to

New mayor wantsto keep Clayton informed

HowARd GelleR

MAYOR’S CORNER

‘Tis the SeasonCity ends2014-15 fiscal year inthe black...and thensome

City staff and councilmembers had good reason tothink Christmas came a bitearly this year after the city’sauditors issued a clean auditreport for Fiscal Year 2014-15that included a surplus of$389,895 in the General Fund.

This was welcome newscoming on the heels of a fiveyear recession that saw thecity’s budget belt cinch tighterand tighter around the city’salready austere spending.

For guidance in spendingthe found money, City Manag-er Gary Napper went to thevarious departments for sug-gestions. The final wish listincluded projects ranging frombuilding a new city website(cost unknown) to a compre-hensive updating of the city’sgeneral plan, estimated at$400,000.

Napper and the councilwent through the list one byone, eliminating some projectsoutright to create a short list ofprojects requiring cost analysisand more information in orderto prioritize. Projects makingthe short list include:• New F-450 utility truck• Park improvements includ-

ing new trash cans, replac-ing the resilient surface inthe play area and trimmingthe trees in the CommunityPark and paint and re-sealthe public restrooms.

• Paint the exterior ofEndeavor Hall

• Repaint the interior of thecity library

• Replace the city-ownedwood street light poles withmetal ones

• Install solar power equip-ment to run the ClaytonFountain

• Funding for a training dayfor the entire police depart-ment

• A new interactive city website

• Replacing the antiquatedpaper records managementsystem with an electronicsystem

• Creating a searchable onlineCity Municipal Code

City staff will further refinethe list and report back to thecouncil at a future meeting.

51-unit condo project proposed for downtown

Plans for 44 high-end, two-story condominiums on threeacres on High Street and MarshCreek Road are not sitting wellwith its neighbors, most ofwhich live across the street inStranahan.

The developer, Bill Jordan, aClayton resident who lives onMarsh Creek Rd. near the pro-posed project, has met twicewith the neighbors.

At a Nov. 23 meeting, he pre-sented plans for a 60-unit, three-

story development, which neigh-bors said was too big. After thefirst meeting, he downsized theproject to 44 two-story units.The revised plan calls for three-and four-bedroom condos.Attached to some of the full-sizecondos are smaller, one-bed-room, 400 sf. units. The smallerunits can be sold individually.

Of the 44 total units, 28 willhave from 1,600-2,300 sq. ft ofliving space and 16 will be thesmaller units.

The pared-down develop-ment didn’t do much, however,

Ray Marentette, Architect

A 44-unit townhouse development is planned for three one-acre lots on High Street andMarsh Creek Road. The condos will be 3-4 bedrooms, up to 2,200 sq. ft. Some will have asmaller 400 ft. studio unit attached than can be sold separately or used as an in-law unit.

New chief seeks community vigilanceAfter a month on the job,

Clayton’s new police chief sayshe’s getting a good feel for

things.A retired Sheriff ’s Depart-

ment Commander, Chris Wen-zel is no stranger to smalltown law enforcement havingserved seven years asDanville’s Chief of Police.“Except for the difference intax base, the two towns arevery much alike.”

Both cities are extremelysafe with property crime andtraffic topping the list ofmajor issues. He plans to makean all-out appeal to the com-munity for extra vigilance inspotting potential crime. “Ifyou see something strange, callus,” he said. “That could be assimple as a van parked in frontin a neighborhood that youhaven’t seen before or as com-plicated as seeing a radicalchange in behavior of some-one you know.”

“Once that call is made, wehave to investigate,” heexplained. “It’s the law.

Wenzel will be keeping aclose watch on activity in The

Grove and other city parks. Hewants to enlist more parentalsupport in addressing vandal-ism and out-of-control youth.“Bad behavior isn’t a lawenforcement issue,” he said.“It’s a parenting issue. Our offi-cers need to be out patrolling,not raising someone’s kid.”

Wenzel holds a B.A. inCriminal Justice from Sacra-mento State University. Hiscareer with the Sheriff ’s Depart-ment began in 1987. His assign-ments include the stint inDanville, Commander at theMarsh Creek Detention Facility,Watch Commander in theOffice of Emergency Servicesand Commander of Adminis-trative Services, a post he helduntil his retirement in 2011.

He describes himself as“service-driven with a sense ofhumor, sometimes impatient,and committed to makingthings work.”

Retirement was not hisidea, he says. He and 50 of hiscolleagues were given the

option of early retirement inApril of 2011 or taking a 17percent cut in their pensions.He is supporting his mother inan assisted living facility andhas two kids to put throughcollege. He couldn’t afford thecut. So he and the others tookthe early retirement, only tofind months later that themove wasn’t legal. But, by thattime, he says “there was somebitterness…it was like a stabin the back.”

He wasn’t ready to retire,he said. So, when the Claytonchief ’s job opened up late lastsummer, he jumped at it.

Wenzel lives in Livermorewith two teenagers and hiswife who is a dog-trainer. Thefamily owns two championLabradors. He coaches youthsports and serves on the Liver-more Valley School Board.

Wenzel replaces formerchief Chris Thorsen who leftin August to head up thenewly formed Oakley PoliceDepartment.

TAMARA STEINERClayton Pioneer

Tamara Steiner/Clayton PioneerCHRIS WENZEL

See Mayor, page 6

See Condo, page 6



Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com December 11, 2015

Each Office Is Independently

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Jay Bedecarre

DE LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY CEREAL DRIVE

concluded recently. Sophomore Brian Nimr (left) of Claytonand freshman Aiden Guzman participated in the 15th yearof the school’s holiday drive for St. david’s Pantry in Rich-mond. dlS Principal Brother Robert wickman says “atremendous showing” ended with the school collecting5,012 boxes of cereal, well above the goal and more thana year’s supply for St. david’s. The pantry serves 50 needyfamilies a week as part of a monthly rotation feeding 200total families in west County.

Record De La Salle Cereal Drive supports

St. David’s Pantry

In one of his last actions asmayor of Clayton, Dave Shueyhappily honored seven youngoutstanding Claytonians forshowing great “Respect” aspart of the city’s Do The RightThing initiative. The studentseach received a certificate ofrecognition while their teach-ers lauded them.

Two second graders fromMt. Diablo Elementary wereamong those honored. AaralynClark was described by herteacher Jennifer Blazer as asuperstar. “She’s the complete

package, respectful of herself,her peers and adults.”

Christopher Dent’s teacher,Alexandra Pike called him the“model student, he showsrespect in every element.”

Diablo View Middle Schoolprincipal Patti Bannister wason hand with two eighthgraders nominated by theirteachers for the award.

Joe Course “does notalways follow the crowd,” saidBannister. “He’s had manystruggles through middleschool and has taken owner-

ship of all showing great selfrespect.”

Felipe Ognian was singledout by his teacher who says heis a “take charge boy, veryorganized and inclusive.”

CVCHS Director of Oper-ations Gregory Hile said “youonly gain respect when yougive it,” as he introduced nom-inee Lynette Cox who is aNational Merit Scholar andalso takes auto shop.

Anthony Vines, a straight Astudent and athlete, is a mem-ber of the Public Service

Academy. The third nominee,Julian Rike was described byone of his teachers who said“I’ve never had a student aspolite and respectful as Julian.”

The DTRT program is a com-munity wide initiative adopted by thecity, the police department and theschools to encourage students tomake good choices. The programembraces six character traits thatrotate throughout the year. BesidesRespect, the other five are Kindness,Integrity, Responsibility, Courageand Self-discipline.

Respectful students honored by city

NOVEMBER DTRT HONOREES with Mayor dave Shuey, back:lynette Cox, Julian Rike, Anthony Vines, Joe Course andFelipe ognian; in front: Aralyn Clark and Christopher dent.

Linda Karp and Jerry Smithof Clayton vacationed on thesunny Kohala Coast of the Big

Island of Hawaii in October.They took a break from spend-ing hours on the white sand andlava rock beaches, swimmingwith the sea turtles and visitingwith the dolphins at their resortto snap this photo with theClayton Pioneer. During theirvisit, the pair participated inthe annual IRONMAN WorldChampionship, handing outwater as well as jogging along-side and cheering on the com-petitors.

Pioneers on the move

Dane and Kahni Hortontook the Pioneer along toGrand Cayman Island to visitwith former Clayton residentsAllan and Joy Brown. One ofthe highlights of the trip(besides world class snorkelingand riding beautiful Arabianhorses bareback in the sea) wassailing out to Stingray City tofeed and play with thestingrays. Kahni says, “Legendhas it that kissing a stingraybrings seven years goodluck...so Dane took the oppor-

tunity to kiss our stingray onthe nose THREE times. Iguess we will be pretty luckyfor at least the next 21 years!”

Shannon Brown marriesNicholas Gripe

CLAYTON RESIDENTS SHANNON BROWN AND NICHOLAS GRIPE

exchanged marriage vows on oct. 24 at diablo Ranch inwalnut Creek. Shannon is employed as nurse in Vacavilleand is the daughter of doloris and Colin Brown.Nicholas is an electrician in Concord and is the son ofRobin and Tim Gripe. Both families are from Clayton.

HAWAII

GRAND CAYMAN ISLAND

Around Town

Cub Scout Pack 262 spent aproductive day collecting foodfor the Contra Costa andSolano Food Banks last month.

The boys and their familiescollected canned and boxedfoods in the Keller Ridgeneighborhood. The weekbefore the collection, theScouts canvassed the area withdoor-hangers which made theday extra productive.

Scout Pack 262 also partici-pates in Clayton Cleans Up andseveral conservation projectsin the area.

Pack 262 meets the third Thurs-day of the month at 7 p.m. at Mt.Diablo Elementary. The Pack isopen to boys in grades 1 - 5 andnew Scouts are always welcome. Forinfo, go to www.cubpack262.com.

December 11, 2015 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com

Around Town

Assisting More Buyers & Sellers than Anyone Else**Statistics based on Clayton/Concord and Contra Costa County Closed sales by volume

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Concord $625,000Pine Hollow – Well maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bathon over half an acre. Approx 2,248 sq. ft. rancherwith hardwood flooring, 2 fireplaces and a formaldining room. Two-car detached garage with possi-ble studio apartment. Huge lot on Clayton borderwith 2 patio areas for entertaining.

Clayton $739,000Windmill Canyon – Lovely 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathhome including a master suite with views. Lightand airy, contemporary home boasting over 2,300square feet. Hardwood flooring & newer carpet.Nicely landscaped yards with patio and in-groundspa that backs to open space. Priced to sell fast!

Concord $469,000Dana Estates – Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathrancher with great curb appeal. Newer laminateflooring, sunken family room with brick fireplace,formal dining room and new appliances in thekitchen. Light and bright with dual-pane windowsthroughout. Walk to schools and shopping.

Clayton $749,900Near Downtown – Beautiful 5 bedroom, 3 bathhome on a lushly landscaped half-acre lot. Freshlypainted, open floor plan with hardwood flooring,updated kitchen and inside laundry room. Newerredwood fencing, built in BBQ and great viewsfrom the backyard.

Concord $449,000Updated to Perfection —Stunning 3 bedroom, 2 bathhome with numerous upgrades.Updated, eat-in kitchen withquartz slab and stainless steelappliances. Distressed woodflooring, upgraded electrical

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The Avengers wreakedhavoc on the rest of the Clay-ton Business and CommunityAssociation’s Bocce League inits recently completed summerseason, which ended on Sun-day, Nov.1 at the Ipsen FamilyBocce Park.

Led by its Capo, MayorDave Shuey, the team set aleague record at 27-2 during

the regular season. TheAvengers beat You Don’tThrow Jack in a thrilling three-

game championship match. The 2016 spring season will

begin in late March. For infor-

mation on the bocce league,visit www.ClaytonCBCA.org.

Summer bocce season ends in thriller

The Avengers bocce team set records in its summer season play. Pictured are (l to R)Greg Berndt, Cheryl Berndt, Rod overstreet, Mike Berndt, Steve Jayko, dave Scolini andKevin Christiansen. Not pictured are dave Shuey and Nick and Char Iacobitti.

Clayton Valley High alums,Roya Biarash and VincenzoBrake announced theirengagement on November 21at a family party in Disneylandwhere Vincenzo proposed atSnow White’s Wishing Wellsurrounded by loved ones. “Itwas magical,” says Roya.

Roya graduated from Clay-ton Valley in 2007 and Vincen-zo in 2008.

Roya is the daughter ofMatt and Ozzie Biarash. Vin-cenzo’s parents are Kevin andRobin Brake. All are Claytonresidents. The wedding will besometime in 2017.

Roya Biarashand

VincenzoBrake to wed

Cubs collect for Food Bank

Scouts Austin Burkhardt, Zackary Claunch, Ryan Christy,Riley Connors, enric winters stand proudly with webelosden leader david Christy and Cubmaster Raymont winters

Former Clayton ValleyHigh School football coachHerc Pardi (center) met withtwo of his former players atthe final game of the Sacra-mento State season. NickMazza (left), a Clayton nativeand 2011 CVHS grad, com-pleted his career for the Hor-nets along with Sac State line-backers coach Tyler Almond(right), another former ClaytonValley player (Class of 2004)

during Pardi’s 16-year tenure asEagles coach. This fall Mazzawas a team captain and award-ed jersey number 43 for hissenior season, an honor whichremembers former HornetJohn Bloomfield who playeddefensive end for SacramentoState from 2011-12. Bloom-field passed away in Octoberof his senior season and sincethat point, no Hornet playerhas worn his No. 43.

Coach, former playersreunite at Sac State

Clayton woman, HeatherCarter, is calling for dona-tions of new or gently-usedcoats for San Francisco’shomeless this Christmas.

The coats will be markedwith a size and left in strate-gic locations around down-town San Francisco, free for

picking up.Coats can be left at Clay-

ton Fitness, at Clayton Fit-ness 1516 Kirker Pass Roadin the Clayton Station. Allcoats will be delivered onChristmas Eve., or [email protected] toarrange for free pickup.

Local woman heads coat drive

Still smarting from theContra Costa County Boardof Education’s approval inAugust of the Contra CostaSchool of Performing Arts,the Mt. Diablo UnifiedSchool District has filed acomplaint in Superior Courtasking the court to overturnthe decision to grant thecharter.

MDUSD says in its 14-page complaint that the CCCOffice of Education had rec-ommended that the School ofPerforming Arts not beapproved when the petition-ers appealed the MDUSDBoard’s unanimous rejectionon May 18 of the SPA charterproposal.

Despite its staff recom-mendation, the county boardnarrowly approved the peti-tion 3-2. Since then SPA

founder and executive direc-tor Neil McChesney and hisgoverning board have imple-mented plans to open theschool next August for stu-dents in grades six through10.

McChesney says “over300 students” have alreadyexpressed interest inenrolling during the openenrollment period that con-cludes today. He says theschool has exceeded its target

of 300 students in its inaugu-ral year and “we’re very excit-ed” about the public’sresponse during the past twomonths. He says interestedfamilies can still sign up.Future admission offers willbe made based on space avail-able or others will be placedon a wait list.

He has “zero doubts” thatthe school will successfullyopen in August. “We havebeen approached by manyperforming arts groups andorganizations for partner-ships.”

When the MDUSD boardrejected the charter applica-tion last spring it concurredwith its staff report that saidthe SPA “presents anunsound educational pro-gram for the pupils…peti-tioners are demonstrablyunlikely to successfullyimplement the program setforth in the petition.”

The report went on toquestion the curriculumbeyond the arts component.

The Charter says it will offera comprehensive STEAM(Science, Technology, Engi-neering, Arts and Math) cur-riculum but both MDUSDand county staff say this was-n’t sufficiently addressed inthe proposal.

The MDUSD complaintsays that after SPA appealedtheir charter rejection to thecounty office, the CCCOEissued its own finding offacts, which essentially mir-rored the same concerns asthe local district.

McChesney feels his finalresponse to county staff ’sreport successfully answeredeach concern brought forthby CCCOE staff and thuswasn’t surprised when thecounty board approved theCharter. He says this recentcourt action was “a surprise”and that the complaint is“opinion-based, not factual.”

MDUSD’s court com-plaint says that the countyboard “committed a prejudi-cial abuse of distraction by

approving the petition toform the Charter Schoolwithout substantial evidencethat the Petition contained asound educational program.”

In the complaint “the Dis-trict seeks a writ of mandateprohibiting CCCOE andCCCBOE from abusing theirdiscretion and failing to per-form their ministerial duty inapproving the charter.” Thecomplaint says the courtshould withdraw CCCBOE’sJuly 15 Charter approval andfurther pay all attorneys’ feesincurred by MDUSD and itslawyer, John Yeh.

McChesney says thatYeh’s firm has similar litiga-tion in Santa Clara Countyconcerning Voices charterschools.

“This [lawsuit] is biggerthan anti-SPA. It is part ofthe national movement togive parents choice” for theirchildren’s education, whichthreaten public school dis-tricts. “MDUSD is not toler-ating competition.”

A few weeks back, Super-visor Mary Piepho and I hadthe privilege of representingContra Costa County inWashington, DC, as the DeltaCounty Coalition (represent-ing the five Delta counties)met with senate and congres-sional members, their staff,and staff of the Environ-mental Protection Agency,the Department of the Inte-rior, and the Army Corps ofEngineers to continue ourmessage that the Water Fix(formerly the Bay Delta Con-servation Plan) – proposedby the Governor – is still abad idea for the health of theDelta. I am happy to say wereceived a welcome receptionfrom all those we met with.

Our continued message is:1) The Water Fix does not

produce one more drop ofwater;

2) It will further degradethe health and environmentof the Delta;

3) It’s too expensive; 4) Perhaps most impor-

tant, there are other ways toprovide quality water to otherparts of the state.

The drought should notbe the driving force behind

resolving this issue: togetherwe can work towards a com-prehensive, sensible, afford-able, and science-based proj-ect(s) to meet the needs ofALL Californians.

As an update on wherethe project stands now: thecomment period concludedon Oct. 30, 2015, for therecirculated EIR (specificallyrelating to the Water Fixrather than the BDCP). Thestate now will review thesecomments and provideresponses to outstandingconcerns. It is anticipated thefinal EIR will be availablesometime in the spring of2016. Most people agree thatlitigation will follow sincethose of us with concernsaround the project do notbelieve the issues we haveraised will be adequatelyaddressed. No one likes tosee money spent on litigation,but it is our belief we haveone last chance to get thisright.

Governor Brown hasmade some very unfortunatecomments to those who criti-cize his plan. Our actionshave not been “shameful,”and our technical expertshave spent just as many hoursas state staff has – withoutthe financial resources avail-able to the state from thewater exporters – reading andanalyzing the informationavailable. I find the Gover-nor’s rhetoric to be outra-

geous, condescending andirresponsible given that abasic tenet of government isthe right to disagree. Hiswords do not move the proj-ect towards the kinds of solu-tions I have stated above.

My colleagues and I con-tinue to work towardsimproving the health of theDelta, ensuring Delta agricul-ture remains just as impor-tant as Central Valley agricul-ture in evaluating economicimpacts, moving forward onbuilding reservoirs so whenthere is an abundance ofwater (such as the projectedEl Niño) it can be storedwhen there is a water short-age. Imagine if all the effortand financial resources avail-able had been put to just thisone use over the last severalyears … I believe the condi-tions exacerbated by thisextended drought would nothave created the havoc wehave seen in the Central Val-ley.

In the coming months, Ipledge to you that I will con-tinue to work towards a com-prehensive water policy thatwill not only serve ContraCosta residents but the entirepopulation of the State ofCalifornia.

‘Tis the season. With theholidays approaching our livesare extremely busy and we for-get to lock our doors and leaveitems of value out in plainview and out of our control.The City of Clayton is a verysafe place to live but we stillneed to practice good crimepreventive measures to help usnot only enjoy our communitybut the holidays as well.

According to the businesscommunity, Internet sales willincrease by 40 percent thisyear. What that means to you

and law enforcement is thatthere will be a lot more pack-ages and mail delivered to yourfront porch and left unattend-ed. These items are becomingmore attractive to criminals tosteal and we have to be morevigilant in securing our deliv-ered items. I have already metwith representatives from UPS,Federal Express and the PostMaster of the USPS for theCity of Clayton to help protectthe items delivered so they getto the person intended. Hereare a couple more steps to pro-tect your property and reducethe possibility of your proper-ty being stolen.

Don’t leave your mail orparcels unattended. If you goon vacation stop your deliver-ies and take advantage of thePostal Services Request HoldMail Service.

Pick up your mail and don’tleave in the box overnight.

Use the service of getting asignature for the delivery ofyour package.

If you have a stay-at-homeneighbor, have the packagedelivered to their home.

Track your package tomake sure of the delivery dateand time.

As for other property, trynot to leave items in plain view,especially in your vehicle. Lockitems in your trunk.

If you see something suspi-cious don’t hesitate to call thepolice to report. Remember,“When in doubt, call us out.”

These practices should bepart of your normal routine. Ifyou spend the little extra timeto secure your belongings youare less apt to be a victim. Youwork too hard for what youown and sadly there are thosewho will want to take it. Enjoythe holidays and let’s continueto keep Clayton one of thesafest cities in the state

Nancy E. Bennett, The Bennett Team#1 Realtor in Concord#1 Team, Keller Williams East BayAgent Leadership Council, Mentor,Faculty Member and Top Producer

[email protected]

BENNETTBETTER.COM

1046 Kaski Lane, ConcordSitting on a third of an acre steps fromLime Ridge Open Space, this 1,687 sf, single story home with 4 bedrooms and 2baths has an open floor plan. Exposedbeam ceilings, brand new carpet, paintand lighting throughout. The kitchen features newer granite counters, plenty ofcabinets and nice appliances. Huge mas-

ter bedroom suite with great light and room for sitting area, desk or crib. Has secondbedroom off of it as well w/large closets. Dining area opens to living room with picture windows and fireplace. Large enclosed sunporch, perfect for entertaining orkids' play area. Private backyard has synthetic grass, and the front yard boasts alarge lawn; and drought resistant landscaping. Schools include El Monte Elementary, El Dorado Middle School and Concord High School.

3694 Sheridan Ct., Concord 4 beds, 2 bath 2,087 sq.ft. Mid-CenturyRancher on large lot. Located on small quietcourt, backing up to Cowell Park, this wonder-ful single story has it all! Many Mid-Century fin-ishes with a modern look and feel. New paint,new flooring, updated baths, kitchen withgranite counters, stainless steel appliances,built-in wok and gas stove. Formal living anddining room along with classic bar set up forentertaining large groups or extended family.Fantastic yard with patio, garden boxes, roses

and plenty of foliage to get your green thumb on! Offered at $688,000

CalBRE #01399870

With more than 80 homes sold this year, we put another 2 families into their dream homes this week as well.How can we help you and your family with real estate today?

NANCY E. BENNETT

Prior to real estate, I was in high tech software and met a lot of wonderful people through my ca-reer. One of those past colleagues called me about six weeks ago and wanted to buy a home outhere closer to the college that his 4 daughters would be attending over the next few years. So webegan our search after getting him qualified to buy a home, while still owning a home in Berkeley.We found a great home, and made an offer under the asking price. The home had been on themarket for some time and the condition seemed fair with some wear and tear. When inspectionswere completed, we actually found over $25K in needed repairs. The sellers were not willing to ne-gotiate after being presented only a fraction of those costs requested from my buyers. Needless tosay, the buyers cancelled as they just didn’t feel that a fair compromise could be met. And as itusually happens, my buyers ended up finding a better house to buy, in great condition, with sellersthat were easy to work with. The moral of this story is that the perfect home is out there for everybuyer…sometimes things have to happen in order for that home to present itself and knowingwhen to walk away is better than not being happy and feeling taken advantage of.

Pending


CHRIS weNZel

CHIEF’S BEAT

Chris Wenzel is Chief of Policeof Clayton. Send questions and com-ments to [email protected] call (925) 673-7350

www.4160CobblestoneDr.com

SOLD$529,000

www.LeighKlockHomes.com 925.212.5593

Leigh Klock, RealtorSenior Real Estate SpecialistAccredited Staging Professional

[email protected]

Super Sharp 4 bedroom, 2 bath, Cape Cod home in Canterbury Village, Concord. Remodeled and Updatedthroughout! Call for details. Offered at $517,000

CalBRE# 01874255

www.1375ShellLn.com www.218MtWilsonPlace.com

SOLD$710,000

New Listing

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year

Don’t let thieving Grinchesruin your holiday season

MDUSD challenges approval of charter school

Fighting to keepDelta waters safe

KAReN MITCHoFF

COUNTYSUPERVISOR

Karen Mitchoff is Contra CostaCounty District IV supervisor. Emailquestions or comments [email protected]

JAY BEDECARRÉClayton Pioneer

Q. My home has been onthe market for six weeks.

With the holidays coming up,could you help me decide if Ishould take it off now and putit on after the first of the year?A. Homes sell anytime dur-

ing the year. The biggest argu-ment against keeping your homeon the market during the holi-days is that it is downright incon-venient. Most people have a hec-tic schedule with parties, house-guests, etc. Keeping a home in

showing condition is a hassle. One way to minimize the

disruption is to set up a modifiedshowing schedule. It can beshown by appointment or onlyavailable to show when it is con-venient for you.

There are many advantagesin keeping it on the market dur-ing the holidays, especially thisyear. Interest rates are a big fac-tor that can work in your favor.

They are still the lowest theyhave been in over 50 years.When interest rates are low, andif there seems to be no threatthat they will raise quickly, buyersbecome complacent. They don’tfeel pressure to buy now. That isNOT the case now. There are somany indicators that may occurthat will spike the rates up quick-ly, such as inflation. We knowthis will occur, we just don’tknow when. Higher rates willlower prices because the buyerwon’t be able to buy as much.This is the time for buyers tolock in their rates and make theirpurchase.

Another reason to keep yourhome on the market is there will

be less competition from otherhome sellers. Granted, there willbe fewer buyers looking forhomes in December comparedto the spring and summermonths. However, those buyersout looking in the winter areserious buyers not casual look-ers. It only takes one buyer tomake a sale.

Even if home prices increasemost buyers realize that they willdo better to buy at a slightlyhigher price with a low interestrate. The forecast is that wheninterest rates increase they willgo up sharply.

Homes also look pretty andinviting during the holidays.

Q. In this holiday season,where are some of the houseswe see in the classic holidaymovies?A. At RISMEDIA.com I

found some movies where thehomes definitely co-star with theactors.

One in 2006, “The Holiday,”with Kate Winslet and CameronDiaz, has the two swappinghomes for the holiday season toget away from their troubles.The home Diaz swaps into is aquaint cottage in the Englishcountryside. Winslow, however,takes over the swanky abode

The acrimony betweenClayton Valley Charter HighSchool and Mt. Diablo UnifiedSchool District over theamount of money the charterschool should be paying itslandlord district for use of thefacilities on Alberta Way con-tinues apace after recent medi-ation failed to resolve thefinancial dispute that datesback to the final payment duefor the 2013-14 school year.

MDUSD and the charterhigh school have been at oddsover a number of issues sinceCVCHS began operating in thesummer of 2012 after theCounty Board of Educationoverrode the MDUSD rejec-tion of the charter conversionpetition and authorized thefirst charter high school in thearea. Clayton Valley HighSchool opened in 1958 as partof MDUSD.

The charter school isrequired each year to pay thedistrict a pro rata share offacility costs as “rent” to utilize

the buildings, grounds and fur-nishings at the Clayton ValleyCharter site. From the 2013-2014 school year the highschool has claimed the dis-trict’s calculation for that feeamount is too high and haswithheld full payment toMDUSD.

Recently the two partiesentered into non-bindingmediation with former judgethe Honorable Bonnie Sabrawbut the district board rejectedher proposed settlement.CVCHS recently proposedpaying MDUSD an annual feethat will go from $313,118 for2014-15 to $368,000 for 2018-19. Those amounts are lessthan what the District calcu-lates it is owed for use of itsfacilities.

CVCHS executive directorDave Linzey, MDUSD super-intendent Nellie Meyer andtheir respective legal represen-tatives have been meeting fornearly a year to resolve thematter.

While these fees have beenhaggled over MDUSD hasreportedly halted work on

Measure C projects at theschool. The school lists themodernization of the boys andgirls locker rooms, libraryupgrades, stadium technologyimprovements and multi-useroom and marquee projects asawaiting final approval andconstruction financed by bondfunds administered by the dis-trict.

Last February the school’sgoverning board approvedusing charter funds to con-struct a $1.3 million all-weath-er turf field to replace grassfields to be used for schooland community sports teamsas well as physical educationclasses. The district needs toapprove such construction andthis initiative is also hung upwith the dispute.

The last five MDUSDboard meetings have listedexisting litigation with CVCHSas a matter for discussion inclosed session. Likewise, theSept. and Nov. CVCHS gov-erning board meeting agendaslisted litigation with the districtas a closed session item.


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Mediation fails to resolve CVCHS-MDUSD facilities billing dispute

Don’t put sale on hold for holidays

Lots to love about olive oils

The olive harvest here inthe Bay Area is from late Octo-ber to January. When the olivesare harvested early they yieldless oil, which in some people’seyes means less profit. Howev-er, the early harvest oils areprized by many because oftheir robust flavors and theiroptimal nutritional benefits.

Many people like the pep-pery and bitter quality of thisoil. Flavor notes of grass,green, green leaf, pungent andastringent are used to describeearly harvest fall oils. When theolives are harvested later in theseason there is more oil perfruit but the flavors are milderand the color and the chloro-phyll content is less.

The later harvest olivesinvite the infusion of freshingredients such as Meyerlemon, basil, blood orange,garlic, and other added flavors.

There are even jalapeño oils.Use these oils in recipes thatneed a little extra boost in fla-vor, such as baked fish, roastedchicken, or roasted vegetables

Salad Dressing: Makingyour own vinaigrette for saladsand other uses is easy — andmuch better for you! Mix 1/4cup extra virgin olive oil and1/4 cup balsamic or red winevinegar in a small mason jarthat has a lid. (Use more or less

vinegar to your taste.) Add saltand pepper to taste, shake welland enjoy.

Herb Rub: Mix olive oilwith fresh herbs, salt and pep-per and rub generously on aroasting chicken for a nicecrispy browned skin. (Same foryour turkey.)

Bread Dip: Mix Italianherbs, olive oil and balsamicvinegar. Place in a small shal-low dish for dipping, and bringon the sourdough baguette.

Roasted Vegetables: Toss amixture of your favorite cutvegetables with olive oil andseasonings and roast in theoven at 400 degrees for 45minutes.

Pesto Pasta: In a blendermix olive oil, salt, Parmesancheese, pine nuts and freshbasil. Toss with cooked pasta.

lyNNe FReNCH

REAL ANSWERS

DEBRAMORRIS

Pacific Coast Farmers Market

The Concord Farmers Market is inTodos Santos Plaza Tuesdays &Thursdays. See ad page 6 for hours.

See Real Estate page 11

his or her opinions. My goal for the next year is

to use this column as an outlet tolet our residents know whatactions have transpired at theClayton City Council level, aswell as what is on our agenda forfuture discussions. My hope is toget more residents interested inour function as a city council andattend meetings so we can hearfirsthand what you want. Whenspace allows, I wish to share thestory of Clayton and how thislittle city of 2,800 people hastransformed and grown to ourpresent population of 11,288.

Behind every good man is aneven better woman. I would notbe your mayor today withoutmine. I want to acknowledge mywife, Debbie Geller. She is mypartner and mentor. She is mysounding board, editor and mybest friend.

Holiday Festivities: Howmany times have we heard Clay-ton is like a Norman Rockwelltown? A big “thank you” goes tothe CBCA for our Christmasdecorations. Our holiday cele-brations continue with “Dessertwith Mrs. Claus” from 11 a.m. to2 p.m. on Dec. 12 at EndeavorHall. The Clayton HistoricalSociety will also host its annual“Christmas Home Tour” from 1to 7 p.m. on Dec. 13.City News: We have a new

Chief of Police, Chris Wenzel,and we just hired a new policeofficer, Tom Starick. We are inthe process of hiring a newPolice Administrative Clerk.Looking for city involvement?We have six positions expiringon our Citizens Advisory Trailsand Landscape Committee. Ifyou are interested, please contactour city clerk.

Money Matters: Your cityended the 2014-15 fiscal yearwith a General Fund surplus of$389,895. Because we are stillsubject to state “claw backs”from the dissolution of our for-mer Redevelopment Agency, thecity council will cautiously con-sider the best use of these funds. Good News on Water:

With the recent rains, the watertable in our aquifer has risenback to safe levels allowingOakhurst Country Club to con-tinue pumping the wells locatedin the Westwood and Lydia LaneParks for its irrigation needs.

I wish everyone a healthyand happy holiday season. MakeNew Year’s resolutions that areattainable. Cherish your friendsand family. They will never losevalue or depreciate. Rememberthose less fortunate in these hardtimes and remember to startyour day with a smile.

Send comments to the mayor [email protected].


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to ease neighbors concerns. Itwas clear early on that thepush-back was against anyhigh-density housing on thelots which were identified aspossible affordable housingsites as early as 2004.

Addressing an overflowcrowd at a second meeting onDec. 3 at the Clayton Library,Jordan said he would prefer tobuild single family homes on thelots, “but the city is requiring aminimum of 15 units per acre.”

Skipolini’s owner KentIpsen’s home sits on the hilldirectly above the High Streetcondos. Ipsen attended themeeting and spoke in favor ofthe development.

“I am seriously impacted bythis project,” he said. “And I cansay that Bill is desperately tryingto build the minimum he can.”

The High Street project is

within the Town Center and willhave the historic, western lookrequired by the Town CenterSpecific Plan. The condos willface High Street and have awalking path to downtown.

Eight units will face MarshCreek Road and will be acraftsman style. All of the full-size units have two-car garagesin the back.

Jordan says five of thesmaller units are earmarked forlow-income buyers.

California’s affordable – or“inclusionary” – housingrequirements are state law.Although challenged severaltimes in court, earlier this yearthe California Supreme Courtupheld a city’s right to requiredevelopers to set aside a percent-age of new units for low andmoderate income buyers. InClayton, the builder must make

10 percent of the units “afford-able,” or pay an “in lieu” fee tothe city’s housing fund.

Clayton has a long record ofmeeting the affordable housingmandates. When Oakhurst wasbuilt, 174 of the units were des-ignated as affordable housing.There are 18 homes in Strana-han sold to low/moderateincome buyers. Diamond Ter-race and the developmentally-disabled housing behind theClayton Station are 100 percentlow-income housing.

The project is still in the pre-application stage. When theapplication is submitted, the citywill determine if an environ-mental impact study is required.If required, the public will havean opportunity to comment.

According to CommunityDevelopment Director MindyGentry, the project will likely beapproved at the Planning Com-mission level since it conformsto the city’s General Plan.

Condo, from page 1

Meteorology is a hot career choice

In a few months studentsfinishing high school or jun-ior college will have impor-tant decisions to make regard-ing and what field of study topursue at university to attend.For some, a career path inmeteorology could prove tobe both challenging andrewarding.

Meteorology is the scienceof the atmosphere. It takes itsname from the Greek word

“meteoron,” meaning events inthe sky. The ancient Greeksunderstood that weatheraffected farmers and sailors.We now know that manyaspects of our environmentand society are greatly affectedby both short term and longterm changes in the weather.

The education process forpotential meteorologists hastraditionally included coursework in physics, chemistry andmathematics. Knowledge ofstatistics has become increas-ingly more important as obser-vational databases have grown.

In recent years strong com-puter-related skills, like pro-gramming and data base man-agement, have become anecessity in the meteorologyprofession. Complex dynamicweather forecast models havebeen used to predicting day-to-day weather patterns fordecades. Advanced computer

skills are not only needed forfuture model development, butalso for graphical presentationof modeled and observed data.

With the recent emphasison climate change, global cli-mate models have been devel-oped to estimate temperature,rainfall and sea level rise out tothe end of the century. Pro-gramming challenges in thenear future include statisticaland dynamic downscaling ofglobal model output to locallevels.

No matter what career patha student chooses, the poten-tial job market should be aconsideration. The NationalWeather Service uses degreedmeteorologists to provide localweather forecasts to the public.Government and universityresearch programs are also aleading source of careers in

See Weather, page 13

WOODY WHITLATCH

WEATHER WORDS

The Clayton HistoricalSociety recently paid tribute totwo Clayton women for theircontributions to service to thecommunity.

“It didn’t take long for theAwards Committee, made up ofJoAnn Caspar, Dick Ellis andmyself, to make our unanimousdecisions of who would beawarded our Clayton HistoricalSociety service awards,” saidMuseum Curator Mary Spryer.

The CHS presented its Spe-cial Recognition Award to Clay-ton Pioneer Publisher and Edi-tor Tamara Steiner. This award isgiven to individuals or groupswhose support, contributionsand exemplary service have beenvital to the mission of the organ-ization, Spryer said.

“It’s been over 12 years sinceTamara began running the Clay-ton Pioneer. A year later, I wasappointed curator of the muse-um, and that’s when our rela-tionship started,” Spryer said.“The society and the ClaytonMuseum are in debt to this edi-tor and publisher … and herpublication for spreading the

word about our museum, itsprograms, exhibits and meetings.We also do our best to answerquestions having to do with ourcity’s history that may come upduring the writing of a story.”

Spryer called it a “symbioticrelationship” but said, “ I’m surethat the society and museum getthe better end of this deal.”

Museum volunteer ReneeWing received The Joel Clay-ton Award, bestowed to indi-viduals or groups whoseactions have had a majorimpact on the society.

“It’s been 10 years sinceRenee started volunteering at themuseum,” Spryer said. “Mostpeople who volunteer start witha small job, adding more andmore responsibility after sometime has passed. Renee did it alittle differently, beginning withbeing the museum’s assistantcurator 10 years ago, and in spiteof all the duties assigned to herthen, added even more dutiesnow that some time has passed.”

Spryer said that Wing hashelped in nearly every area at themuseum, including exhibits,

opening the museum to thepublic, accessing artifacts for themuseum’s collection, writingarticles, attending meetings,researching, serving on commit-tees, and more.

“Renee has been particular-ly helpful to me as assistantcurator,” Spryer said. “I neverreally thought of her as anassistant because we dividedup the tasks of a curator andeach took some. Most of myduties concerned the public,most of hers concerned themuseum and artifacts.

“I do know this, that of allthe volunteers at the museum,past and present, Renee is the

most protective of the museum,and the collection of artifacts weare so lucky to have.”

For more information about theCHS and museum, please visitwww.claytonhistory.org.

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Holiday SectionAlpine Pastry and Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-7220Clayton Business & Community Association . . . .672-2272Clayton Fair Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-0324Clayton Mind and Body Connections . . . . . . . .673-0686Clayton Valley Bowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-4631GoldenCircle Acupuncture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .285-3781Grayson, Tim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.timgrayson.usLandgraf, Linda – Berkshire Hathaway . . . . . . .876-0311Los Rancheros Taqueria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .685-7110Montecito . . . . . . . . . . . .www.oakmontofmontecito.comSt. Bonaventure Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-5800The UPS Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .689-6245

Directory of Advertisers

P.O. Box 12466200 Center Street, Suite H, Clayton, CA 94517

TAmArA And robErT STEinEr, PublishersTAmArA STEinEr, EditorPETE Cruz, Graphic DesignPEGGy SPEAr, Copy Editor JAy bEdECArré, Sports PAmElA WiESEndAnGEr, Administration, Calendar Editor

STAFF WRITERS: Peggy Spear, Pamela Wiesendanger, Jay Bedecarré

CORRESPONDENTS: John Jackson, Kara Navolio, Patricia Romero, John T. Miller

We remember Jill Bedecarré - Her spirit is our muse

PIONEER INFOCONTACT USTel: (925) 672-0500Fax: (925) 672-6580

www.ClaytonPioneer.comTamara Steiner

[email protected] ads to

[email protected] Sports News to

[email protected] Club News to

[email protected] School News to

[email protected]

LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniver-saries, births and deaths all weavetogether as part of the fabric of ourcommunity. Please let us know ofthese important events. We ask onlythat the announcement be for a res-ident in our home delivery area. Sub-mit on our website and be sure toattach a JPG photo that is at least 3MB but not bigger than 6MB. Youcan also mail or bring your print tothe office and we can scan it for you.

Also on the website are formsfor calendar items, events & pressreleases.

CIRCULATION as of Sept. 2014

Total circulation of the Clayton Pio-neer is 5,500 to ZIP code 94517, alldelivered by US Mail to homes andbusinesses.. We cannot start orstop delivery to individualaddresses. This must be donedirectly through the Post Office.

The Concord Pioneer is deliv-ered monthly to 30,500 in Concordby carrier. Papers are delivered oncea month on a Friday morning nearthe end of the month. To stop deliv-ery for any reason, call the office at(925) 672-0500 or send an email [email protected].

If you are NOT receiving thePioneer, please check the distribu-tion map on the website. If you livein the shaded area and are not receiv-ing the paper, please call us or sendan email to [email protected]. If you are not in theshaded area, please be patient. Wewill come to your neighborhoodsoon.

SUBSCRIPTIONSTo subscribe, call the office at

(925) 672-0500. Subscriptions are$35/year for each paper, $60/yearfor both.

KindnessDo the Right Thing


Club News

Historical society honors Steiner, Wing

Mount Diablo InterpretiveAssociation has released its lat-est publication, “Hiker’s Guideto Mount Diablo State Park,” afull-color offering, rich inmaps and detailed informa-tion, ranging from the mostpopular to the lesser-knowntrails in the park’s diverse20,000 acres. It may be pur-chased for $15 at the SummitVisitor Center, the MitchellCanyon Visitor Center oronline at MDIA.org.

The guide is organized intofive geographic locations cov-ering the park: North, South,Interior, West and East, allow-ing for a quick overview by thereader of the selection in anyarea. Each trailhead is givendetailed treatment, includingan easy-to-read map, a fulldescription of the route, agraph of the elevationchanges, a difficulty rating, thetrail’s overall length and some

illustrative photos. MDIA, founded in 1974, is an

all-volunteer, nonprofit organizationthat works in close partnership withMount Diablo State Park to pro-mote public awareness of the natu-ral and cultural history and signifi-cance of Mount Diablo througheducational programs, events, publi-cations and outreach. For furtherinformation, contact MikeWoodring, President, Mount Dia-blo Interpretive Association at [email protected] or MDIAvoicemail: (925) 927-7222.

Christmas came early forClayton schools and local organ-izations, thanks to grantsapproved by the Clayton Busi-ness and Community Associa-tion at its November 19 meetingat Oakhurst Country Club.

The CVCHS music depart-ment got a grand boost whenCBCA members voted $13,000for the purchase of a grandpiano. The instrument is said toadvance the school music pro-gram several levels. As musicbooster Becca Kellenbergerpointed out, it’s a major pur-chase that will pay dividends forthe next several decades.

And who knew CVCHs hada trap team, as in shooting at claypigeons? CVCHS is the onlypublic high school in the EastBay with a trap team. It draws60 students to learn gun safetyand compete in carefully super-vised practices. It’s a uniquesport in that teams are made upof both boys and girls. In thecase of CVCHS, the boy-girlratio is about 50-50. The CBCAgrant will help cover competi-tion registration fees for allshooters

Girls again got their due, asCBCA approved a grant for theCVCHS girl’s golf team to help

cover greens fees and tourna-ment entry costs. Girls’ golfcoach Chris Krnich pointed outthat college scouts regularlyshow up at girls’ tournaments inhopes of recruiting goodprospects and offering scholar-ships to their school.

The fifth grade class at Mt.Diablo Elementary found some-thing in their stocking when theywere granted funds for thewhole class to attend a week-long outdoor education camp.Who could resist the kids’ pres-entation as they took turns at thepodium? As they exited, theypassed out candy canes to theiraudience.

“Christmas for Everyone”got its present, too. CBCAgranted funds to this programthat provides gifts, entertain-ment, and Christmas dinner toover 3,000 working poor inContra Costa County.

Perhaps the greatest singlesupport group for CBCA is Dia-blo Valley Ranch, which pro-vides long-term drug rehab andsubstance abuse care. Men fromDVR have been doing much ofthe heavy lifting for events likeArt & Wine and Oktoberfest formany years. CBCA membersvoted a grant to purchase andinstall new bathroom fixtures,including 18 low-flow toilets, atthe Ranch.

GARY CARRSpecial to the Pioneer

CBCA plays Santa for good causes

MDIA ‘Hikers Guide’profiles 50 Mt. Diablo hikes

TAMARA STEINER ANDJOANN CASPAR

City of Clayton now accepting applications for

TRAILS AND LANDSCAPINGCOMMITTEE

Office Term: Jan. 2016 - Dec. 2017The “Trails and Landscaping Committee” com-

prised of up to 11 members is appointed by theClayton City Council. This citizens Committee advis-es the City Council and City Manager on mainte-nance, improvement and financial matters related tothe 2007 Citywide Landscape Maintenance District (acommunity facilities district). The District has anannual budget to maintain the roadway and medianpublic landscaped areas, public open space/hillsidesof the City, annual weed abatement and seasonalfire break tasks, the Clayton Fountain, and the TrailsSystem of the City. There are currently 6 seats due toexpire on December 31, 2015.

Applications may be obtained:In person: Clayton City Hall

6000 Heritage TrailBy mail:Call City offices at (925) 673-7300e-mail: [email protected]’s web site: www.ci.clayton.ca.us

Please return a completed application to theCity Clerk by 5:00 p.m. Monday, December 28,2015. Appointments are expected at a CityCouncil meeting in January.

Clayton City Hall and itsPolice Department Adminis-trative Offices will be closedduring the upcoming holidayfrom Christmas Eve, Decem-ber 24, through New Year’sDay, January 1.

City police servicesremain unaffected by theseholiday closures.

The City MaintenanceDepartment, however, will beopen 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. duringthe holiday week with theexception of Christmas Dayand New Year’s Day. CityMaintenance crews are alwayson standby in the event ofemergencies.

City offices to close ChristmasEve through New Years Day

The countdown to the hol-idays is a crazy time: Searchingfor the perfect gifts for friendsand family, accessorizing yourhome with baubles and gar-lands, and overstocking yourbeverage cooler before theSwarovski covered ball dropsin Times Square. Busy is anunderstatement, but the holi-days just wouldn’t be the samewithout all of the festive to-do’s.

We all like to entertain onsome level, and the holidaysbring out the partying hipsterin all of us. Whether you’rehosting an extravaganza of 100or an intimate gathering offour, on the 12th day, take aninventory of your party sup-plies from pressed linens tohaving a surplus of candles inthe pantry.

The exterior is just asimportant as the interior ofyour home, so on the 11th and10th days, why not spend sometime outside…hanging twinklylights, adorning the front yardtrees with oversized baubles,

and blowing up the obnoxious,but loved, cartoon charactersthat sit on your front lawn.

Speaking of the great out-doors, when was the last timeyou had your windowswashed? On the ninth day,consider hiring a pro, or drag-ging out the extension ladder,and get those windows cleaned… inside and out. Fluff yourdrapery, dust off the louvers,and let some natural light toshine through.

We wash or dry clean ourclothes, shine our shoes andsteam out the wrinkles of oursuites and cocktail dresses, soon the eighth and seventh days,why not show your furnitureand floors some love, too?Consider bringing in the clean-ing pros to remove a few lov-ingly made stains on the sec-tional and lounge chair, as wellas polish the hardwood floorsand clean the tiled grout lines.

Photos of family andfriends throughout your homehave always been a wonderfulway to remember the goodtimes, a loved one who haspassed or a new addition toyour family. On the sixth day…and maybe even the fifth andfourth days (as this task can

take some time), considerfreshening up and adding toyour framed photos.

Fa la la la la…don’t forgetabout holiday tunes. Not reallyan interior design sort of to-do, but music, like great layeredlighting, can help set the moodfor a rockin’ ruckus or a lovelysymphony of relaxation. Onthe third day, make your holi-day play lists or assemble yourholiday CD’s and have thesemusic sources ready forplanned or impromptu holidayambiance.

Do you love the scent ofapple pie or cinnamon sugarrolls? Or maybe you preferfresh-cut pine? Whatever your

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Visit withMrs. Claus and Santa

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As we approach the close of2015, we are mindful of thecommunity we serve and gratefulto each and every one of ourreaders and advertisers.

Our hats are off to ourextraordinarily talented, dedi-cated, and perhaps a little bitcrazy staff.

Merry Christmas, HappyKwanzaa, Happy Chanukahand Happy New Year.

Tamara and Bob SteinerThe Pioneer Staff

The 12 Days ofholiday decorating

JeNNIFeR leISCHeR

DESIGN & DÉCOR

See Decorating, page 9

Tamara Steiner, Pete Cruz, Peggy Spear, Pamelawiesendanger, Bob Steiner and Jay Bedecarré

Have you ever performedon a “Canjo”? Or played in thewater with a balloon-sailedwooden boat?

These innovative — andhandmade — toys were justsome of the inventory avail-able to good little girls andboys that was created this yearat the Marsh Creek DetentionFacility.

It may not be the most con-ventional of Santa’s work-shops, but don’t tell that to theinmates of the facility. For the24th straight year, these elveshave been helping the Big Guyby building more than 400handcrafted toys and 170refurbished bicycles that willbe enjoyed by children in Con-tra Costa County.

Shortly before Thanksgiv-ing, representatives from manyservice groups throughout thecounty, including the Bay AreaRescue Mission, BrighterBeginnings, Contra CostaCounty Independent LivingSkills Program, El Cerrito Fire

Department, Shelter Inc., TheSalvation Army-AntiochCorps, Ujima Family RecoveryServices/La Casa, and VES-TIA, took a pre-holiday tour togather up a “wish list” of toysthat will be distributed toneedy children in the area.

A small group of MarshCreek Detention Facilityinmates have been working on

this project primarily duringthe past two months of thisyear – when the workshop re-opened in early October. Theyhave been busy fixing up usedbikes to look and ride like new,and crafting colorful woodentoys like ball and cup games,spinning carousels, cars, dollhouses, baby cradles, toy trac-tors, train sets and more.

All of the toy makersand/or bike mechanics are stu-dents in the Contra CostaAdult School, an accreditedschool directed by the ContraCosta County Office of Edu-cation (CCCOE), located with-in the jail facility.

“It feels really good to begiving back instead of tak-ing.” says inmate Duane Aga-mau. He is a boat mechanicon the outside, so he bringsthe needed skills to reassem-ble and repair the bikes. In30 days, he turned out 164“like new” bikes.

In fact, the bike workshopwas big, at least in numbers.The bikes come in frompolice impounds, lost andfounds, and through dona-tions, etc. Agamau says thatmost of the bikes come intothe facility in “pretty badshape”: in pieces, rusty, nowheels, missing handlebars,among other problems.

But the elves work tirelesslyto make them not only ride-able, but attractive as well.

Inmate “elves” ChrisCavanaugh and Leroyal

Southall both have a back-ground in construction, sothat made it easy for them tobuild toys, like the Canjo — abanjo made from wood and atin can, as well as balloon-pow-ered bathtub boat. Paul Turner,who teaches the adult educa-tion class, says that the inmatescan reduce their incarcerationtime by working in the toyshop, but that is not the onlyreason they participate in thetoy building. “Most of themlove it,” Turner says. “I’ve hadinmates ask if they could comeback and volunteer here afterthey served their time. Unfor-tunately, the answer is ‘no.’”

The class is just one ofmany offered through theCCCOE. During the 2014-15school year, approximately2,343 adult inmates (through-out the three Contra Costadetention facilities) wereenrolled in classes rangingfrom academic programs,including basic literacy andGED preparation, to vocation-al programs, including wood-shop, construction, and state-of-the-art computer training.

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Seasons Greetings fromClayton Fair Properties

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Santa’s Workshop back in businessat Marsh Creek Detention Facility

Jennifer Leischer is the owner ofJ. Designs Interior Design based inClayton. Contact her with ques-tions, comments and suggestions [email protected].

MCDF INMATE DUANE AGAMAU puts his skills as a boat mechanic to work in Santa’s workshop refurbishing bicyclesto distribute to the county’s needy children. The work earnshim credit through the CC County Adult ed program.

PEGGY SPEARClayton Pioneer

smell of choice may be, don’tfret if you can’t create thissmell by actually baking or cut-ting down a tree. Instead, onthe second day, head out andinvest in a holiday scent thatcreates the warmth you’ve cre-ated visually with your holidaydécor.

And on the day of yourholiday celebration … justbreathe. Relax. Turn on theholiday tunes. Take it all in,and enjoy your warm and cozyhome and your family andfriends.

Decorating,from page 8

The holiday season isalways a time of reflection.Although gratitude is a wor-thy practice on a daily basis, itespecially brings to meaningour life’s priorities during thisannual celebration.

On Nov. 13, the preciousgift of life was stolen frommany innocent lives when theworld was shocked by thecowardly and senseless actsof terrorism in Paris. Thishorrific event brought intofocus the dangers we face asAmericans and how theseevents impact our studentshere at Clayton Valley.

Through social media andthe Internet, our students areconstantly bombarded byglobal catastrophes and actsresulting in mayhem and vio-lence. And yet their lives goon. They leave their homesevery day to attend school.Youth athletic events, dramaand musical performances,and after-school activitiescontinue. And they should.The challenge, however, ishelping our students cope

with these horrific events –ones that impact their view ofour world.

We can ill-afford to allowour students to form misper-ceptions based upon thehateful, destructive acts of afew. It is our responsibility, aseducators and parents, toteach values of tolerance andunderstanding towards thosewho are different.

When students learnabout other people, it helpsthem feel engaged in theirworld. Growing interest inhow other people live, theirnorms and values, religions,

politics, cultures and lan-guages helps them see thebeauty of the world. And yes,they also gain appreciation ofthe differences and similari-ties in how we all live.

Here at CVCHS, we focusthose differences as strengthsin our emphasis on team-work. This semester has pro-vided many positive examplesof our students’ achieve-ments through teamwork.

CVCHS’s Arts Academystudents worked in groups tocreate “hotels” from aroundthe world. Our multi-use

room was transformed intoan amazing global market-place filled diverse sounds,tastes, and imagery.

CVCHS’s Marching Bandfinished third at the 38thAnnual Grape Bowl ClassicBand Review competingtogether with 40 bands fromthroughout Northern Cali-fornia and Nevada at thisprestigious event held everyyear in Lodi.

Our talented ImprovTeam hosted their annualthree-day Follies cabaret-styletalent show featuring mem-

bers of our drama, choir,band and dance studentsworking together to raisemoney for the performingarts.

Using great pack running,our fifth- ranked boys crosscountry team pulled off astunning Division II upsetand qualified for the Califor-nia State Championships.They outperformed ourgreatest expectations andtook 18th place. It was theirfirst trip to the champi-onships since 2002, followingtheir first league champi-

onship in 21 years. As we enter the holiday

season, each of us is encour-aged to embrace our differ-ences while respecting ourindividual liberties. We havemuch to be thankful for hereat CVCHS and much to learnas individuals and as teammembers of our local andglobal communities.

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Winter is approaching andthere are many things going onthis month at Diablo ViewMiddle School.

Recently, our Diablo Viewleadership committee organ-ized a “Hunger Service Proj-ect” for people in foreigncountries. To participate, stu-dents go to www.freerice.comand play trivia. There is no log-in required to participate. Forevery trivia question youanswer correctly, you send 10grains of rice to a communityin a foreign country. Each stu-dent’s goal is 19,000 grains,which equals one meal for aperson in a foreign country.Mrs. Ruff says, “If we use ourbrains, we will get more

grains!”Also this month, Mrs. Ruff

and the leadership team put onthe Winter Festival which is tobe held on Friday, Dec. 11. Allsixth graders are invited toattend from 3 to 4 p.m. andseventh and eighth graders areinvited to attend from 7 to 9p.m. in the amphitheater andmulti-use room. The dancecosts $7 and includes food,games, music and a photobooth, as well as a chance towin a raffle prize. Tickets weresold at school from Thursday,Dec. 3 through Thursday, Dec.10 during sixth andseventh/eighth grade lunches.

Last, but not least, DVMSheld the annual fall ScholasticBook Fair during the week ofNov.30. There were many titlesand varieties in the book selec-tions.

All in all December is anexciting month for DiabloView Middle School with manyactivities, and DVMS is look-ing forward to more in 2016.

As the time approaches toplan your much anticipatedfuture, life can become morestressful and aggravating thanit already is for some. Collegecan be one of the most impor-tant times in every student’slife. It might be one of themost fun, unforgettable andlife changing experiences onecan have. Although it will beone of the best experiences, itis crucial that one prepareshim or herself for the occa-sion.

The process of actuallysearching for a college can be

extremely challenging, and notevery student will choose thepath to a four-year college.Institutions like trade schoolsand internships are also a pop-ular destination for many stu-dents, and are of the sameimportance and require similarpreparation.

As the time approaches,students, particularly seniors,are preparing to endure the rig-orous process of selecting thecollege that fits their prefer-ence. However, there are manycritical factors that influencethe decisions of students, suchas the cost, majors, locationsand other factors.

“I think my destination forcollege will depend mostly onthe major I choose,” said Clay-ton Valley Charter HighSchool senior Dylan Gois. Inaddition, preparations are notonly beneficial, but studentsshould see them as require-ments. During high school, itcan be difficult to actually pre-pare for the next stage of yourlife.

“I chose to take two APclasses this year, and I’m tryingto become more accustomedto studying harder andlonger,” said senior RonnyHernandez. Like Ronny, manyseniors resorted to taking APcourses to not only preparethemselves for more collegecourses, but to also gain thatextra GPA boost that willattract more prestigious col-leges.

Ashlynn Hengemihle alsoadded, “I’m taking AP classesto prepare myself for the aca-demic workload and spendinga lot of time with friendsbecause we will be partingways soon.” Although it isimportant to prepare oneselffor college, many seniors arealso not forgetting to enjoytheir last year of high school.

Even though the cost wasnot a huge topic that wastalked about amongst students,it may be the biggest factor indeciding colleges for many.Parents will most definitelyhave a say when it comes to

prices for college. Accordingto the College Board, the aver-age budget for the 2014-2015academic year was $23,410 forin-state public colleges, and$46,272 for private colleges.Community colleges tend to bemuch cheaper due to the factthat prices for meal plans andhousing is not included in thetotal budget. Regardless ofwhere students attend, pricestend to have a massive impacton decisions.

Different systems will forceyou to transition on your own.As seniors look for colleges ofinterest, every detail must betaken in consideration. Thepath will be open in the blinkof an eye, and before youknow it, the future will becomethe present. Preparation andprior research is required inorder to be successful, but youmust never forget to do whatmakes you content and proud.

Pablo Hernandez is a senior atClayton Valley Charter HighSchool.

While many are joyfullyawaiting for the holiday sea-son, senior Clayton ValleyCharter High School soccerplayers are counting the daysuntil the start of their last sea-son at school. This upcomingsoccer season will be one toremember.

Saul Gomez, former cap-tain of the JV team, intends tomake the best of his last yearplaying soccer. “I know I haveto give it my everything,” hesays. “I want to leave my markat this school and be remem-

bered for a long time.”Ryan Bolender, who has

played for CVCHS since hisfreshman year, is excited toplay his last season. “I expectan exciting and successful sea-son to cap off all the goodmemories I’ve had playing withmy best friends.”

For many senior soccerplayers, this season will leave abittersweet feeling for them.“It’s sad to think I’m almostdone,” senior Peyton Rhodessays. “But I know we will dogreat. I’m going to finish my

last year with many great mem-ories.”

Sports play an integral rolein creating close relationshipswith each other at CVCHS.With students on the soccerteam, these past years togetherhave created a special bondthat will last a very long time.Senior Dylan Gois believes,“We’re more than just a team.We’re a family.”

Last year, the Ugly Eaglesvarsity soccer team finishedwith an overall record of 10-9-2. With players ready to make

their last year count, many canexpect a great level of excel-lence this upcoming season.

Tommy Vo is a senior at Clay-ton Valley Charter High School.

Embracing tolerance and differences at CVCHS

David Linzey is executive direc-tor of CVCHS. Contact [email protected]

dAVId lINZey

VOYAGE OF THE EAGLE

Finding the right college requires preparation

PABlo HeRNANdeZ

TEEN SPEAK

ToMMy Vo

CVCHS CORRESPONDENT

CVCHS boys soccer readyfor senior year

Natalie Pursche is in the seventhgrade at Diablo View MiddleSchool. She is an avid reader, enjoyswriting, and loves to spend time withher friends and family. Send com-ments to [email protected].

NATAlIe PuRSCHe

DVMS CORRESPONDENT

Diablo View hosts a festive December

Resolutions are a great wayto start the year off, whetherthey are a list of things toaccomplish or just fun ideas tomake 2016 your best year yet.We often think of resolutionsnot only for ourselves but forour families and pets as well.

Here are some top resolutionsfor happy and healthy pets.

1. Make exercise with yourpet a daily routine. Not only isexercise beneficial to keepingyour pets happy and active, exer-cising your pets can also providethe same benefits to you. Take awalk every day with your dog orspend some time playing withyour kitty around the house. Itwill increase your bond whileintegrating physical activity intoboth of your lives. Play alsokeeps your pet’s mind sharp.Even just five minutes a dayspent tossing a ball for your dogor dangling a toy mouse for yourcat can mentally stimulate them.

2. Schedule a check-up. Justlike humans, pets need a medical

exam once a year, more fre-quently for older pets. So whileyou’re scheduling your doctorvisit don’t forget to make anappointment with your veteri-narian as well.

3. Volunteer. Many peopleresolve to give back to theircommunity and volunteeringwith shelter animals can be avery rewarding way to do so.Visit your local shelter to askabout volunteer opportunities.Walking dogs, playing with andsocializing cats, and donatingmuch needed items like blanketsand food and food are all greatways to help a shelter.

4. Set up play dates. Hostingplay dates for your pup will helpkeep him socialized and get him

used to new faces and otheranimals and people. Plus theyare a lot of fun for animals andpeople alike. Visit the dog park,take a walk together or inviteyour friends and their pets overfor a great day indoors or out.

5. Re-examine eating habits.The New Year is a great timeto look at your pet’s eating rou-tine and make healthy adjust-ments as needed. Resolve tofeed fewer table scraps? Con-sider swapping in a healthytreat instead. Maybe somethingfresh and homemade in place ofstore-bought treats which oftencontain ingredients that are lessthan ideal for our dogs and cats.

6. Take more car rides. Get-ting your pets used to riding inthe car can have lasting benefitsbeyond just feeling the wind intheir furry faces. Car rides are agreat way to introduce your petsto new scenery. And next timeyou take them to the vet, the carride might not be as frightening.

Here’s wishing you and yourfurry friends a happy andhealthy New Year.

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Two-year-old Sally is asweet, snuggle bug that wouldlove to be your partner inadventure. She likes long walksand playtime, but can also relaxand cuddle up on the couch.Sally has a positive history withother dogs. We recommendSally take a Basic Manners classwhere she can learn polite waysof seeking the creature com-forts in life. She currentlyweighs 51 pounds.

The adoption fee for adultdogs is $250 and includes a dis-count on an ARF U Mannersclass.

Four-year-old Eddie is onehandsome boy who is shy atfirst, but once he gets to knowyou, he likes to snuggle closefor attention. Eddie loves calmattention, and enjoys beingbrushed. Eddie does well withother cats.

Eddie’s adoption fee hasbeen prepaid by a generousdonor.

Meet your forever friend at TonyLa Russa’s Animal Rescue Foun-dation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Wal-nut Creek, during adoption hours:Noon to 6 pm Wednesday &

Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday,and Noon to 6 pm Saturday &Sunday. The primary caretakermust be present to adopt. ARF alsoencourages kids 16 and younger andcanine family members (dog adop-tions only) to be present during theadoption process.

Would you like to be part of theheroic team that saves the lives ofrescued dogs and cats? Can youshare your talents to connect peopleand animals? ARF volunteers aremaking a difference! For more infor-mation see our website,www.arflife.org, or call (925) 256-1ARF.

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located in the small, affluent cityof San Marino, California. The10,324 -square foot mansion hasnine bedrooms, five bathroomsand a large pool also featured inthe film. It last sold in 1998 for$3,250,000.

In 2003 the controversial“Bad Santa” was a favorite forBilly Bob Thornton fans.Thornton plays a Grinch of amall Santa who robs the mallafter hours. He befriends a trou-

bled kid and takes up residencein his house while the parentsare out of town. The stucco-style home featured in the film isin the West Hills, California. Itwas last listed at $1 million andhas panoramic city views, a cus-tom infinity pool and is 4,100square feet.

In 1990 “Home Alone” wasthe booby-trapping holidayfavorite. Macaulay Culkin’s char-acter Kevin McCallister shared

most of the screen time with thepicturesque house the familycalled home. The actual housesits quietly on a tree-lined streetin Winnetka, Illinois. It was builtin 1920 with five bedrooms,three-and-a-half baths and4,243 square feet of living space.

Real Estate, from page 5

Send your question and look foryour answer in a future column. [email protected]. French isthe broker/owner of WindermereLynne French & Associates. Contacther at 672-8787 or stop in at 6200Center St., Clayton.


The Christmas season is infull force. People seem to berushing everywhere to get justone more present for that spe-cial someone or to find thingsto do that will occupy out-of-town guests.

I have one answer for bothdilemmas: give your specialperson the gift of entertain-ment, which is also a great wayto keep your guests enter-tained. Local theater compa-nies have decorative gift certifi-cates that have lots of optionsfor holiday performances or acomedy, musical or drama in2016. You’ll not only make thereceiver happy, but you’ll beinvesting in your community aswell.

Meanwhile, the holiday sea-

son is full of wonderful per-formances.

Playwright Kathryn G.McCarty starts things off witha comic adaptation of CharlesDickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”Entitled “(Not) A ChristmasCarol,” the holiday piece runsthrough Dec. 13 at the Mar-tinez Campbell Theatre, 636Ward Street. For more infor-mation, call 925-518-3277 orgo to www.onstage -theatre.homestead.com.

Lafayette’s Town Hall The-atre keeps the spirit bright witheveryone’s favorite six-footrabbit “Harvey.” Full of magicand heartwarming characters,Mary Chase’s Pulitzer Prize-winning tale follows the adven-tures of Elwood P. Dowd andhis best friend Harvey, aninvisible rabbit who createschaos for his family.

Steve Rhyne plays Dowdwith Laurie Strawn as hisbeleaguered sister Veta andJohn Blytt as Dr. Chumley.Director Susan Hovey hasfound a wonderful cast to playthe lovable, not to mention

very colorful, characters. “Har-vey” runs through Dec. 19.Call 925-283-1557 or go towww.townhalltheatre.com.

If you’re looking for a fewlaughs, try Stand Up Comedynight on Monday, Dec. 14, atVinnie’s Bar and Grill, 2045Mt. Diablo Street, Concord.Hosted by Mean Dave, the funbegins at 7:30 p.m. For moreinformation, call 925-685-9515or go to www.vinniesbar.com.

For a holiday treat, you stillhave time to enjoy CenterRep’s magical adaptation ofCharles Dickens’ “A ChristmasCarol.” The perennial favoritecontinues through Dec. 20 atWalnut Creek’s Lesher Centerfor the Arts. Michael Ray Wise-ly plays Scrooge surrounded bya large cast of local perform-ers, many of whom have donethe show for over 10 years. It’sbecome a tradition for theseperformers and they can’timagine the holidays withoutperforming in this holidayextravaganza. In fact, Wisely’swife, Wendy, and daughter,Olivia, have also been a part ofthe cast for years. Call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesher-artscenter.org.

If you don’t mind travelinginto San Francisco, you canalso catch the story ofScrooge’s transformation atthe American ConservatoryTheatre (ACT), 415 GearyStreet. ACT’s “A ChristmasCarol” runs through Dec. 27.James Carpenter plays themiserly Scrooge. For tickets,call 415-749-228 or go towww.act-sf.org.

Did you send your letter toSanta? Did he receive it yet?No letters — no Christmas.Such is the premise of FantasyForum’s beloved children’sshow “The Biggest Gift,” cur-rently playing to enthusiasticyoung audiences at the LesherCenter. The story of Tuckerthe Elf and how he saysChristmas has several showsleft: Dec. 17 at 11:30 a.m.; Dec.18 at 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.;Dec. 19 at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and4 p.m.; and Dec. 20 at 11 a.m.and 1 p.m. The wonderfulstory for young childrenencourages audience participa-tion and even allows some chil-dren to sit on the stage. Fortickets, priced at $14, call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesh-ercenter.org. Those with a sweet tooth

have quite a treat in store thisDecember. Solo Opera willpresent EngelbertHumperdinck’s’ delectableconfection “Hansel and Gre-tel.” The fairytale adventurefeatures a mystical forest, twolost children, an enticing gin-gerbread house, and, ofcourse, a wicked witch. Thecompany has pulled manyorganizations together to makethis a special event includingthe Contra Costa Children’sChorus and dancers from LoriBuffalow’s The Next StepDance Studio. Proceeds willbenefit the Food Bank of Con-tra Costa and Solano.

Performances take place at7:30 p.m. Dec. 18 and at 2 p.m.Dec. 19-20 at Del Valle The-atre, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd, inWalnut Creek. Tickets are $25(youth 17 and under), $35(seniors) and $40 (adults).Fortickets, call 925-943-SHOW orvisit www.lesherartscenter.org.As a special holiday treat, a lim-ited number of discountedtickets have been set aside forthe Friday, Dec 18 perform-ance only. These tickets are

marked 50 percent off, from$40 to $20, and can beobtained by visitingwww.Goldstar.com.

Enjoy your favorite holidaytunes as Pittsburg CommunityTheatre presents “Ringing inthe Holidays: A MusicalRevue.” Classic songs include“White Christmas, “HaveYourself a Merry Little Christ-mas” and “Frosty the Snow-man.” In addition, the GoodShepherd Choir will sing aselection of spiritual songscompleting the holiday showeveryone in the family willenjoy. The performance takesplace Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. at theCalifornia Theatre, 351 Rail-road Ave., in Pittsburg. Ticketsare $15-23 and can be pur-chased by calling 925-427-1611or going to www.pittsburg -californiatheatre.com.

Performing Arts

SAlly HoGARTy

STAGE STRUCK

Sally Hogarty is well knownaround the Bay Area as a newspa-per columnist, theatre critic andworking actress. She is also theeditor of the Orinda News. Send comments [email protected]

Give the gift of entertainment this year

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JOIN THE FANTASY FORUM PLAYERS as elf Tucker saves Christ-mas in family-friendly ‘The Biggest Gift’, at the dec. 17-20.

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DIANE SQUIRES AS GRETEL AND MEGAN STETSON AS HANSEL inSolo opera’s production of ‘Hansel and Gretel’ runs dec.18-20 at walnut Creek’s del Valle Theatre.

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IN CLAYTONDec. 12Dessert with Mrs. ClausPrizes, party favors. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Bring cam-era. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 11 a.m. – 2p.m. Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St., Clayton. Donations appre-ciated. Clayton Business and Community Association 672-2272.

Dec. 13Christmas Home TourShowcasing six homes decorated for the holidays. 1 – 7 p.m.Clayton Historical Society and Museum, 6101 Main St., Clayton.$30. claytonhistory.org.

IN CONCORDMondays Off the GridRotating lineup of eight food trucks; live music from local musi-cians. Food trucks 5 – 9 p.m.; music 6 – 8 p.m. Grant Street be-tween Salvio Street and Willow Pass Road, Concord.offthegridsf.com.

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

Dec. 14 Stroke Support GroupMonthly meeting and holiday potluck. 7 – 9 p.m. Concord Room1, John Muir Medical Center, Concord Campus, 2540 East St.,Concord. Free. Contact Ann Dzuna 376-6218.

Dec. 14Tree of LightsTree lighting for Clayton and Concord by Hospice of the EastBay. 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. John Muir Medical Center parking lot,East Street and Almond Avenue, Concord. Donations accepted.887-5678.

ON THE MOUNTAINMount Diablo Interpretive Association programs listed are freewith the exception of park entrance fee. Go to mdia.org and clickon Events Calendar for more information.

Jan. 1Around the Mountain HikeStart the new year with a fairly strenuous hike around MountDiablo. 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Meet at Oak Knoll picnic areaparking lot. Reservations required.

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENTThru Dec. 13“(Not) a Christmas Carol”A comic adaptation of the Charles Dickens’ classic. CampbellTheatre, 636 Ward St., Martinez. $10-$15.onstagetheatre.homestead.com. 518-3277.

Thru Dec. 13Shadelands Annual Holiday FaireHand-crafted gifts. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Shadelands Ranch Mu-seum, 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Free admis-sion. walnutcreekhistory.info.

Thru Dec. 20“A Christmas Carol”Presented by Center REPertory. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $27-$49. centerrep.org. 943-7469.

Thru Dec. 27“A Christmas Carol”A sparking, music-infused production. A.C.T.’s Geary Theater,415 Geary St., San Francisco. $20-$105. act-sf.org.

Dec. 11The Olate Dogs Holiday Rescue Tour Variety show with dog tricks and more. 7:30 p.m. CaliforniaTheatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $15-$55. pittsburgcalifor-niatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Dec. 12“Holiday Magic 2015” A spectacular holiday-inspired dance performance. 1 and 3:30p.m. California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $16. pitts-burgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Dec. 11 – 12“On Beckett”Plays, prose and poetry exploring Samuel Beckett’s work, star-ring Bill Irwin. 7:30 p.m. A.C.T.’s Strand Theater, 1127 MarketSt., San Francisco. $50-$100. act-sf.org.

Dec. 11 – 12“Winter Ballet Gala 2015” Presented by Civic Arts Education. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 TiceValley Blvd., Walnut Creek. $16.75. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 11 – 13“#NewMagic”Family-friendly magic show presented by Alex Ramon Magic.Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $30.lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 11 - 13Super Holiday BoutiqueSpecial one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and stocking stuffers. Holidayarts and crafts, entertainment, free Santa and Olaf photo oppor-tunity. Canned food donations benefit Food Bank of ContraCosta. Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Alamo. Free admission. su-perholidayboutique.com.

Dec. 12Dave BurleighComedian and impressionist. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $18-$21.pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Dec. 13“An East County Christmas”Presented by the Summerset Singers. 3 p.m. El Campanil The-atre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $5-$15.elcampaniltheatre.com.

Dec. 13The Platters-Live!Presented by AZ Music Productions. 3 p.m. California Theatre,351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $25-$30. pittsburgcaliforniathe-atre.com. 427-1611.

Dec. 14Stand Up ComedyHeadliners from throughout the Bay Area are hosted by MeanDave. 7:30 p.m. Vinnie’s Bar and Grill, 2045 Mt. Diablo St.,Concord. Free admission. 21 and up only. vinniesbar.com. 685-9515.

Dec. 17 – 20“The Biggest Gift”Tucker the Elf and the toys set out to save Christmas. Presentedby Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble. Lesher Center for the Arts,1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $14. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 18 – 20“Hansel and Gretel”Presented by Solo Opera. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice ValleyBlvd., Walnut Creek. $25-$40. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 18 – 20“The Nutcracker”Presented by The Ballet Company of East County. El CampanilTheatre, 602 W. Second St., Antioch. $16-$20. elcampanilthe-atre.com.

Dec. 20“Ringing in the Holidays: A Musical Revue”Wonderful holiday show perfect for the whole family. 2 p.m. Cal-ifornia Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $15-$23. pitts-burgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

Dec. 22 – 23“Traditions New and Old” Presented by California Symphony. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center forthe Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $42-$72. lesherartscen-ter.org. 943-7469.

Dec. 26Big Fat Year End Kiss Off Comedy Show XXIIIWill Durst and company poke fun at the major news stories of2015. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., WalnutCreek. $30. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

SCHOOLSThru Dec. 13“The Diary of Anne Frank”Haunting, yet inspiring account of a young Jewish girl and herfamily’s lives during WWII. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf ClubRoad, Pleasant Hill. $11-$21. dvcdrama.net.

CHURCHES AND RELIGIONDec. 11 - 12A Christmas FestivalExciting musical presentation by the Bethel Baptist Choir. 6:30 –9 p.m. Bethel Baptist Church, 3578 Clayton Road, Concord.bethelbaptistca.org.

Dec. 13“And the Stars Will Dance”A Christmas concert presented by the Cathedral Choir and fea-turing guest artist Ken Medema. 6 p.m. First PresbyterianChurch, 1965 Colfax St., Concord. Free will offering. 676-7177.

Dec. 18 – 19A Christmas Drive Through Nativity6:30 – 9 p.m. Bethel Baptist Church, 3578 Clayton Road, Con-cord. bethelbaptistca.org.

Dec. 21Bell Choir ConcertTalented bell ringers perform. 7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church,1965 Colfax St., Concord. 676-7177.

FUNDRAISERSThru Dec. 21Toys for TotsDonate at Concord Moose Lodge, #567 Family Center, 1805Broadway St., Concord. 798-0887.

2nd and 4th SundaysPancake BreakfastVeterans 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.

Dec. 12Pancakes and Photos with SantaBreakfast, Santa, rummage sale. 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Vista DiabloDolphins Swim Team, Vista Diablo Cabana Club, 850 SullivanAve., Concord. Free admission; $5 pancakes. Bring [email protected].

Dec. 14 - 15“Carols by Candlelight” Concert featuring the choirs, guitar classes and dance perform-ance class. Canned food drive. 7:30 p.m. Ygnacio Valley HighSchool Multi-Use Room, 755 Oak Grove Road, Concord. $5.Contact Kelly Cooper at 685-8414.

Dec. 19 – 20Mini Boutique and Christmas Bake SaleDelicious treats and hand-crafted items for sale before and afterSaturday and Sunday mass. All proceeds benefit the SaintBonaventure Food Pantry. 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. st-bonaventure.net.

AT THE LIBRARYThe Clayton Library is at 6125 Clayton Road. Programs are freeunless otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at claytonli-brary.org or call 673-0659.

Dec. 14, 28, Jan. 11: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m.Dec. 17: SAT review, 4:30 p.m.Dec. 19: Holiday movie, 2 p.m.Jan. 11: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m. Jan. 11: SAT Seminar, 7 p.m.

The Concord Library is at 2900 Salvio St. Programs are free un-less otherwise noted. See full schedule of events at ccclib.org or646-5455.

Dec. 12: Holiday boutique, 10 a.m. Dec. 14: SF Opera: Sing a Story, 7 p.m. Registration required.

GOVERNMENT1st and 3rd TuesdaysClayton City Council7 p.m. Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

2nd and 4th TuesdaysClayton Planning Commission7 p.m., Hoyer Hall, Clayton Library, 6125 Clayton Road. 673-7304 or ci.clayton.ca.us.

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meteorology. There are job opportunities

in the private sector. For exam-ple, meteorological consultingfirms provide forecast servicesfor railroad and trucking com-panies as well as sportingevents. Meteorologists alsoconsult to commodities tradersconcerned about the effects ofweather on crop productionand prices.

The aviation, shipping andutility industries often have in-house meteorological staffs.Airlines and ocean shippingcompanies use weather fore-casts to safely and economical-ly route airplanes and cargovessels. Utilities use tempera-ture forecasts to estimate elec-tric and gas demand, and topredict storm-related outages.

Another interesting branchof meteorology is known asforensic meteorology. Theseprofessionals provide expertwitness by reconstructing

weather conditions occurringat the time of a weather eventthat has resulted in court pro-ceedings. Some examplesinclude weather-related autoaccidents, train derailmentsand wildfires.

Students with math,physics and computer sciencebackgrounds may want to takea look at the field of atmos-pheric science. Several Califor-nia universities offer under-graduate and graduate degreesin meteorology including SanJose State, San Francisco State,UCLA and UC Davis.

For more information oncareers in meteorology checkout the American MeteorologySociety’s web site atwww.ametsoc.org/career-center/index.html.

Weather, from page 6

Woody Whitlatch is a meteor-ologist retired from PG&E. Emailyour questions or comments to [email protected]


Top seeds De La Salle andClayton Valley Charter highschools defended their NorthCoast Section Division I and IIfootball championships lastSaturday and have once againmoved on in the state CIFfootball playoffs. Howeverthat’s where the similarity ends.

DLS (12-1) won its 24thstraight NCS crown by blank-ing previously-undefeatedFoothill (12-1) of Pleasanton35-0 and will meet Centennial(14-0) of Corona Dec. 19 atSacramento State for the StateOpen Division championship.It will be the fifth time the twoteams have battled for thechampionship in the 10 yearsof CIF Bowl Games.

Clayton Valley (12-1) cap-tured its third NCS title in fouryears in a thrilling battle withcity rival Concord High (9-5) atDiablo Valley College. TheEagles rallied from an 8-7 half-time deficit and held off theMinutemen for a 23-22 victoryin the closely-contested Divi-sion II finale that snappedConcord’s five-game winningstreak since a loss to CV inleague play.

The Eagles travel to San Josethis Saturday night to meet OakGrove (11-2) in the NorCalDivision 1-A championshipgame. The winner of that gamemoves on to the State finals, fac-ing either Narbonne of HarborCity (12-2) or Ridgeview of Bak-ersfield (13-0), the Southern Cal-ifornia finalists.

Oak Grove opened the sea-son losing to St. Francis and Val-ley Christian. Since then thoseEagles from San Jose have runoff 11 straight victories andavenged both those losses in theplayoffs en route to their seventhCentral Coast Section champi-onship. Last Saturday they ralliedfrom 14 points down to beat St.

Francis 27-21 on RashaanFontenette’s late 60-yard touch-down run on fourth down.

Concord teams battle twiceIn the second meeting this

year of the crosstown rivalsConcord again led by a point athalftime before having CVCHScome back to win. The Eagleshave now beaten their rivalsseven times in the past fouryears, three of those wins com-ing in NCS play.

League offensive MVP RayJackson III scored three touch-downs and a pair of two-pointconversions for Clayton ValleyCharter. In the end it was afirst-quarter extra point kick byjunior Mitchell Campos thatwas the difference in the close-ly contested game which Con-cord led twice.

After pulling within a pointlate in the fourth quarter onquarterback Nick Nunez’ sec-ond short touchdown run,Concord was denied taking thelead when a two-point conver-sion run by Leandre Jones wasunsuccessful.

The Minutemen didn’t giveup and forced Clayton Valley topunt as the Eagles attempted torun out the clock. Coach TimMurphy’s team had punted onlytwice in its first 12 games andsurvived the last-gasp Concordeffort when Evan Barney got hissecond interception of the gamefor the Eagles.

“We didn’t lose, we gave thegame away,” interim Minutemancoach Mark Bywater said whilebemoaning his team’s turnovers.Concord lost to their rivals in theNCS finals for the second year ina row and it was their third sec-tion championship game losssince the Minutemen won theirfirst-ever NCS title in 2010.

Murphy mentioned all-lea-guers Haikoti Vaisima and BryceBrand for helping the Eagles tovictory. Jackson gained 206 yardsrushing. Due to a season-ending

injury to all-DVAL quarterbackLuis Ramos the Eagles ran muchof their offense out of the wild-cat formation with direct snapsto Jackson and junior AnthonyLeiland.

DE LA SALLE MEETSFAMILIAR FOE

De La Salle has now gone269 straight games againstNorthern California schoolswithout a loss since the 1991NCS finals. Foothill came intothis year’s finale against the Spar-tans off the high of a 55-54semi-final win over Antiochwhile DLS had swamped long-time playoff rival Pittsburg 70-14, leading 42-0 in the first quar-ter of their semi-final.

Foothill didn’t roll over tothe Spartans and was behindonly 14-0 at halftime, having

shutout the Spartans for mostof the first half after giving uptwo early TDs. Antoine Custerpretty much put the game outof reach by returning the sec-ond-half kickoff 86 yards for aDLS touchdown.

Andrew Hernandez hadthree touchdown runs for theSpartans as quarterback Antho-ny Sweeney ran the offense.

However, once again it wasthe De La Salle defense thatcontrolled things, recording itsfifth shutout of the year. TheSpartans have allowed only 40points in the last 10 games.

This sets up quite a State

finals against offensive jugger-naut Centennial who beatnational No. 1 St. John Bosco62-52 in the Southern Sectionfinals. Centennial has been“held” under 42 points onlyonce this year and that was toOrange Lutheran in a 35-14victory. De La Salle beat OL41-3 a week after the Centenni-al game.

Last December DLS out-slugged Centennial 63-42 in arecord-breaking State finals, thethird time in four championshipmeetings that the Spartans havedefeated coach Matt Logan’sHuskies. DLS is the only team to

reach the State Bowl game all 10years since it was reinstituted in2006. They have won six statecrowns in their first nine finals.

Centennial and DLS areboth ranked in the top 10nationally entering the finals in aclassic battle of offense vsdefense. Mostly likely with thatscenario it will be the more suc-cessful of the DLS offense orCentennial defense that provespivotal. And don’t forget thespecial teams on both sides. TheSpartans this year have allowedsome long kick returns, some-times the only points scored bytheir opponents.

The Warriors are absolutelyon fire to start the season andthey are playing like men withsomething to prove while shat-tering the all-time leaguerecord of 16 consecutive vic-tories to begin a season.

Even after going 67-15 lastyear and winning the NBAtitle, the Warriors were disre-spected by other teams andmedia alike in the off-season.Terms like “lucky” and “fortu-nate” were thrown around, andsome even went so far to saythat the Dubs title needed anasterisk by it.

The Warriors are simplyproving the naysayers wrong.They might be even better than

they were last season.Klay Thompson said that

the Warriors have a chance towin over 70 games this year,which would put them in theechelon of all-time great regu-lar-season teams.

Already on the season, theWarriors beat the play -off Memphis Grizzlies by 50points. That isn’t a typo, theWarriors blasted the Grizzlies119-69.

The Warriors are systemati-cally dismantling teams andthey don’t even have their headcoach on the bench. Luke Wal-ton has done an amazing jobfilling in for Steve Kerr,as he recovers from back sur-gery. Walton even won theNovember Coach of theMonth award.

Andrew Bogut, the injuryprone big man, missed a fewgames early on while he recov-ered from a concussion. TheWarriors didn’t miss a beatwithout him as Festus Ezelicame in and filled the startingcenter role with ease.

And what about StephCurry? He’s proving everynight that he deserved his

MVP award last season. OnHalloween, Curry dropped 54points on the New OrleansPelicans and had nine assistsas well.

The Warriors seem to beeven better this season.They generally turn the ballover less than last year and theball movement is as crisp as ithas ever been. Earlier thismonth the Warriors broke therecord for most assists in a halfwith 28.

When forward DraymondGreen was interviewed on thesideline about the assist total,he looked like his head wasabout to explode in disbelief.

The Warriors feel disre-spected and the league is feelingtheir wrath. After starting theirtitle defense with 21 straightvictories it is a very likely thatthe Warriors indeed will winmore than 70 games by sea-son’s end.

Sports Local teams dominate NCS football playoffs again


Jason Rogers

JUNIOR AKEAL LALAIND (11) has become a more prominent factor in the CVCHS offense in recent weeks and gained 69yards in the North Coast Section championship game last Saturday against city rival Concord High as the eagles won theirthird section crown in four years 23-22 after trailing the Minutemen at halftime for the second time this year. Concord de-fenders Clay dashner (60) and damaria Capers moved in to stop lalaind. Jake King (right) blocked for his teammate

MDSA Team Lightning strikestwice for two championships

Photo courtesy MdSA

TEAM LIGHTNING LED A 1-2-3 SWEEP by MdSA teams in the girls under 10 division at theAySo Area 2C Cup last month. Team lightning won the MdSA world Cup tournamentchampionship to qualify for the Area Cup, which they won in a shootout over MdSAdynamite in the finals. The team includes, front row from left, Isabelle Shepski, TristaGiannini, Morgan Grove, lian Blaisdell; back row, coach dan Giannini, Natalia Avelar,Temi okeowo, ellis Adams and coach Jim Giannini. Not pictured, Kate Heyman.

TYLER LEHMAN

SPORTS TALK

Tyler Lehman is a senior at SanFrancisco State University and a2012 CVHS graduate. He ismajoring in print/online journalismand wants to be a sports writer.Email your comments or questionsto [email protected].

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Photo courtesy Carondelet High School

Giovy webb, a senior at Carondelet High School, is headedto the Ivy league! The four-year varsity shortstop commit-ted to yale university on the recent National letter of Intentday. The Clayton resident began playing softball in ClaytonValley little league at five-years-old. After drawing all-league honors for the Cougars and getting an excellentscore on her SAT tests she was thrilled to be accepted atyale earlier this fall.

Clayton Valley CharterHigh School football playersRay Jackson III and Jake Peral-ta and water polo’s Scott Mey-lan were recognized for theiroutstanding fall seasons asmost valuable players in theirsports by Diablo Valley Athlet-ic League coaches.

Meylan’s coach Nick Ballewsays, “Scott is a passionate ath-lete that genuinely cares abouthis teammates and his team.He puts in the work needed tobe an elite high schoolathlete each day. It was a pleas-ure to see him excel.”

He was first-team all-DVALlast year and honorable mentionas a freshman and sophomore.Meylan scored 73 goals this sea-son, (even missing five gamesdue to an injury) for the Eagleswho reached the North CoastSection playoffs before losing toSan Ramon Valley.

NCS champion CVCHSfootball senior stalwarts Jack-son and Peralta earned theirleague most valuable playerawards for leading the team toits fourth straight undefeatedDVAL title before earning itsthird section championship infour years.

Coach Tim Murphy laudedboth players. He calls the“undersized” Peralta “the per-fect kid” for his leadership,work ethic and talent on andoff the football field. His older

brother Rich Peralta set theschool tackle record last yearand was joined on the all-league defensive unit by JakePeralta.

Jackson was the team’soffensive workhorse at running-back gaining over 2000 yardsfrom scrimmage. Murphy wasvery pleased with his progressthis year “taking pride in break-ing tackles” and playing throughtough injuries in the latter part ofthe season.

Clayton Valley Charter vol-leyball player Jessica Stratton wasnamed first-team all-DVAL forthe third year in a row. Othertwo-time first teamers are MariaSparvoli (tennis), Ben Robinow

(water polo), Rebecca Walsh(golf) and Kelly Osterkamp(cross country). All the repeatall-league Eagles are seniorsexcept Osterkamp who is just asophomore and has been an all-league honoree twice already.

Other DVAL MVPs wereHarold Tidwell (Concord foot-ball), Jaime Pitcher (CollegePark) and Tatum Turetzky(Northgate) co-MVPs waterpolo, Renee Lawrence (North-gate volleyball), Dymphna Ueda(Northgate golf) and leaguecross country champs RaynaStanziano (Concord) and JorgeVelasquez (Ygnacio Valley).

CVCHS athletes on all-DVAL teams:

CROSS COUNTYBoys: 1st team - Dylan

White, Sayed Opeyany, MichaelCox, JJ Perez; 2nd team -Anthony Maytum, BrandenBusby; Honorable Mention -Branden BizickiGirls: 1st team -

Osterkamp, Claire Olson; 2ndteam - Sarah Verderame; Hon-orable Mention - Natalie Ruzic-ka, Sofia Villa, Jessica Hevener

GIRLS GOLF1st team - Walsh; Honorable

Mention - Morgan Christensen,Jordan Ray

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Sports

Clayton Valley Charter cross coun-try won its first boys league champi-onship in 21 years this fall, then tookthird at North Coast Section and endedup with its first trip to State finals in 13years! Seniors Anthony Maytum andSayed Opeyany provided steady resultsand leadership to the Eagles successfulseason.

For as long as he can remember,Opeyany has had a passion for runningand mentions that the sport “chosehim.” He is never idle as he also playssoccer, runs track and participates in

taekwondo. He has been playing soccersince he was six years-old, starting withAYSO and moving to club soccer for acouple of years. In track he runs the1600m and 3200m races. At his taek-wondo center, Community Youth Cen-ter, he was a purple belt and receivedthe Most Desirable award. WhenOpeyany is not running, he is involvedwith Clayton Valley’s Link Crew pro-gram and is a Sempervirens outdoorschool leader. He has also had aninternship with UCSF, shadowing as anorthopedist over the summer.

Maytum joined CVCHS cross coun-try in order to stay in shape for DiabloFC club and the Eagles school soccerteams. He missed his junior cross coun-try season with injury. His favorite partabout cross-country is knowing that ithelps him stay in shape and keeps himfit. “The biggest challenge I faced inXC was my sophomore year of run-ning,” Maytum says. “I was needed torace in a varsity race because only fourof our runners were healthy while theother three were either sick or injured.It was hard for me cause I wasn’t usedto the races being a mile longer andfaster, but I ended up getting seventhout of about 30 [runners].”

CVCHS correspondent Celine Herreracontributed to this Spotlight.The Clayton Pioneer congratu-

lates Anthony and Sayed and thanksAthlete Spotlight sponsors Dr.Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruz-icka who have been serving theClayton and Concord area for 25years at Family Vision Care Optom-etry. www.laceyandruzicka.com

Do you know a young athlete who shouldbe recognized? Perhaps he or she has shownexceptional sportsmanship, remarkableimprovement or great heart for the sport. Sendyour nomination for the Pioneer Athlete Spot-light today to [email protected].

AthleteSpotlightAnthony Maytum & Sayed OpeyanyGrade: Senior School: CVCHS Sports: Cross Country, Soccer

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Athletes Giovy Webb,Casey Schwitters make college commitments

Meylan, Jackson, Peralta get leagueMVP recognition for CVCHS Eagles

SCOTT MEYLAN (LEFT PHOTO) led the Clayton Valley Charter High School water polo team tothe NCS playoffs and was honored as the diablo Valley Athletic league most valuableplayer. Fellow CVCHS seniors Jake Peralta (32) was the league defensive MVP while RayJackson III (23) was voted dVAl offensive MVP as the eagles rolled to a fourth straight un-defeated league record.

Photo courtesy Berean Christian High School

CASEY SCHWITTERS signed a National letter of Intent to takehis baseball talents to St. Mary’s College next fall. TheClayton youth will be a four-year starter on Berean Christ-ian’s baseball team, primarily at catcher but also at secondbase. last spring as a junior .448 batting average, 19 RBIand two homers. He carries a 3.8 GPA.


See Eagles, page 16

Jason Rogers photosScott Anderson photo

CLAYTON VALLEY HOLIDAY YOUTHBASEBALL PROGRAM DEC. 21-22

Clayton Valley Charter High School baseball coachingstaff and players are offering a holiday baseball clinic Dec.21-22. The program focuses on the skills necessary to be asuccessful player including batting, fielding, pitching, throw-ing, catch play and speed/agility drills each day. Sessions areheld from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Clayton Valley Varsity Base-ball Facility for boys and girls ages 5–14. Contact Eagles headcoach Casey Coakley at [email protected] withquestions or to register.

CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE ACCEPTINGPLAYER REGISTRATION ONLINE

Registration for Clayton Valley Little League is now open forthe spring 2016 season. Baseball programs for players ages fourto 14 and softball for girls four to 14 are both open for registra-tion. Tryouts are Jan. 16. The CVLL program includes a Chal-lenger Division for players with physical and mental specialneeds. Players must reside within the CVLL boundaries. Go tocvll.org for complete information and to register.

DIABLO FC U9-U12 COMPETITIVE SOCCER TRYOUTSBEGIN JAN. 10

Diablo FC tryouts for the 2016 season for under 8 throughunder 14 boys and girls competitive teams begin Jan 10 at Clay-ton Valley Charter High School and Diablo Valley College.There is no charge to try out and players can pre-register todayat diablofc.org. For more information on the club and tryoutscontact director of coaching Zach Sullivan [email protected].

CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER FROSHFOOTBALL UNDEFEATED

The Clayton Valley Charter freshman football team went 10-0 this fall while playing facing tough non-league opponentsJames Logan, Folsom and Monte Vista and then winning anoth-er DVAL championship. The young Eagles outscored oppo-nents 558-81, averaging 411 yards of total offense pergame while defensively holding opponents to 113 yards per out-ing. Off the field the plyers achieved a team GPA of 3.06, qual-ifying as a CIF scholar/athlete team.

BUSY WINTER, SPRING PROGRAMSAT ALL OUT SPORTS LEAGUES

Winter and spring programs in Clayton are filling the calen-dar offered by All Out Sports Leagues. Youth basketball signupsare taking place with the league starting Jan. 9. Christmas breakbasketball clinic for boys and girls in first through 10th grades isaccepting signups. For complete information on All Out Sportsprograms, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

CRABLESS CRAB FEED JAN. 23 FORMT. DIABLO HIGH ATHLETICS

The Mt. Diablo High Athletics Hall of Fame annual CrabFeed theme is the “2016 Crab Feed without the Crab” at ZioFraedo’s in Pleasant Hill on Saturday, Jan. 23. The only differ-ence between this and previous crab feeds is that diners willmake a choice between prime rib or calamari steak with lemonsauce and capers since there is a major issue during the crab sea-son. There will be the usual music, dancing, 50/50 drawing andraffle prizes. This is the main fundraiser of the year for MDHSathletics. Tickets are $50 until Dec. 31 and $60 after that date.For questions call Lou Adamo at (925) 212-9332 or [email protected].

ST. BONAVENTURE RUNNER PLACES AT DIOCESE CYOThe recent Oakland Diocese CYO cross country champi-

onships were held at Joaquin Miller Park in Oakland. In the girls6-8 grade flight Grace Zodikoff placed ninth to help her St.Bonaventure team to sixth place. Skylar Bennett of St. Bonaven-ture was third in the 3-5 grade girls while Lex Greenwood ofQueen of Saints was third in the boys K-2 race.

TRYOUTS FOR BLAZE BASEBALL SATURDAYBlaze competitive team tryouts for baseball are this Saturday

for 13U and 14U teams. For complete information on Blazecompetitive teams through All Out Sports programs, visit allout-sportsleague.com.

DIABLO FC BENEFIT CRAB FEED FEB. 5 AT CENTRE CONCORD

The 13th annual Diablo FC benefit crab feed and raffle is setfor Friday, Feb. 6, at Centre Concord. Tickets are now on sale forthe event that benefits programs for the local competitive youthsoccer club affiliated with the San Jose Earthquakes. Visit dia-blofc.org for more details and to purchase crab feed and raffletickets.

JUSTIN MASHORE PROMOTED TOTEXAS RANGERS MLB STAFF

The Texas Rangers have promoted Clayton Valley High Hallof Famer Justin Mashore from Triple-A Round Rock to be theirassistant hitting coach with the major league team. His brotherDamon and father Clyde are also in the CVHS Hall of Fame.Justin Mashore graduated in 1991 when he was honored as theCVHS Athlete of the Year following a stunning senior baseballseason when he set school records of 40 stolen bases and 41runs for the BVAL champion Eagles. The former mark stillstands over two decades later.

Sports

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Sports Shorts

Clayton Valley Charter’sboys cross country teammade a little bit of history bywinning the Diablo ValleyAthletic League champi-onship for the first time in 21years. The team didn’t finishits magic year there though asthe Eagles then took third atthe North Coast Sectionchampionships and qualifiedfor the CIF State Meet forthe first time in 13 years.

Coach Anthony Munch’srunners used its depth allyear and that team effort wasneeded at NCS as the Eaglesfinished one point ahead ofGranada of Livermore forthe third and final State meetteam place awarded to NCSschools.

Sophomore Dylan Whitewas second at league andfifth at NCS to pace theteam. Michael Cox, AnthonyMaytum, JJ Perez and Bran-den Busby rounded out theCVCHS scoring five at NCSin Hayward that allowed theEagles to grab third place apoint ahead of Granada.

“This is one of the most,if not the most, dedicatedteam I have ever coached.They were determined towork as hard as possible towin the DVAL championshipand that effort, teamworkand belief in themselves andeach other carried them tothe State Championshipmeet,” Munch said.

White again led the localschool’s finishers at State inFresno where Clayton ValleyCharter took 18th, just twopoints behind NCS championMaria Carrillo.

The CVCHS girls wereninth at NCS. SophomoreKelly Osterkamp paced theEagles in 20th with ClaireOlson her next teammate 11places later.

WATER POLOIt’s been quite a year for

Northgate High aquatics. A

long-term fund-raising proj-ect finally came to fruitionwith the opening of the $7.9million Northgate AquaticsCenter this year. The 25 yardsby 40 meters pool will hostBroncos PE classes plus theschool’s water polo, divingand swimming teams.

Last spring the Northgateboys won their second con-secutive NCS team champi-onship and then made itsown history by winning theinaugural CIF State swim-ming championship. The

team was able to practice inthe pool in the final weeks ofits historic season.

Then the Northgate boysmade history this fall whenthey won the school’s first-ever North Coast Sectionwater polo Division II cham-pionship with an 8-5 win overNo. 2 seed Tamalpais. Waterpolo coach Taylor Hermansaid after the NCS finale,“We’ve had great programs inthe past. This was finally theteam that went all the wayand pulled through.” The

Broncos were NCS runners-up to Redwood last fall andsemi-finalists the two previ-ous years.

GIRLS GOLFCarondelet captured the

school’s second NCS golf titlewith sophomore AngelaBagasbas as tournamentmedalist. The Cougars wontheir only previous NCS golftitle in 2001 with Allie Rowetaking medalist honors.

This fall the Cougars shot394 to win the NCS champi-

onship at Boundary Oak inWalnut Creek with a 14-strokewin. The team competed with-out a senior in the lineup thatfeatured juniors Isabel Mintonand Alexis Browne, freshmenYealimi Noh of Concord andCourtney Gaorian and sophsBagasbas and Annika Borrel-li. Bagasbas shot even par 72while Noh and Borrelli whereboth in the 70s at NCS.

After their NCS title theCougars advanced to the Nor-Cal Championships where theytied for second with Dougher-ty Valley, six strokes behindwinners St. Francis. Bagasbaswas fifth shooting a three overpar 75 and Noh tied for ninthwith a 78 at NorCal.

All three schools advancedto the CIF State finals at PoppyHills Golf Course where theCougars took fifth. Noh waslow shooter with a 75.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALLClayton Valley and North-

gate each defeated the otherschool as visitors during theDVAL season and then had aplayoff to determine theDVAL champion with CVCHStaking a four-game match.

At NCS the Eagles won instraight sets over Alameda inthe opening round but lost infour games to Granada of Liv-ermore in the Division II quar-ter-finals. Northgate lost atough five-game match toNewark Memorial in the Bron-cos first NCS game. Caron-delet beat Arroyo but lost toMaria Carrillo at NCS.

Eagle runners earned State Championships berth

Photo courtesy CVCHS cross country

IT WAS 13 YEARS SINCE CLAYTON VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM QUALIFIED for the CIF State Champi-onships. This fall, coach Anthony Munch’s team was third at NCS to reach State. Celebrating their Section placementwere, from left, Munch, dylan white, Branden Busby, Michael Cox, Branden Bizicki, JJ Perez, Anthony Maytum, Sayedopeyany, assistant coach danny Sullivan and assistant coach Shaun Guest.


GIRLS TENNIS1st team – Sparvoli, Erin

Wardle; 2nd team – DaliaAnwar, Glennalyn Ajero; Hon-orable Mention - Megan Brys,Tracy Nguyen

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL1st team – Stratton; 2nd

team – Tori Klock, MiaMudaliar, Shelby Pastorini,Kiana Smith; Honorable Men-tion - Erika Schaefer, SuzySchofield

WATER POLOBoys: MVP – Meylan; 1st

team - Ryan Levy, Robinow;

2nd team - Anthony Vines;Honorable Mention- CameronBrandt, Calan Brown Girls: 1st team – Bailey

Reading; Honorable Mention -Rebekah Reynolds, Skyy Bur-ney

FOOTBALLOffense MVP – Jackson

III; 1st team offense - AngelQuesada, Ryan Fischer, Luis

Ramos, Anatol Sklyar; 2ndteam - Jake Linderman, JackFouts, Mitchell Campos,Robert Carson

Defense MVP – Peralta;1st team defense - HaikotiVaisima, Bryce Brand, JamelRosales, Evan Barney; 2ndteam - Jeff Williams, JustinRoper, Joe Nguenti

Eagles, from page 15


Please let us know about your sports news, special events,fund raisers, tryouts, signups and accomplishments. Send detailsand your contact information to [email protected].

Every season there aretrends on the runway that aretouted as ‘the next big thing.’This season, when I flip throughmagazines or scroll through blogposts, I can’t help but be drawnto so many of the latest andgreatest looks. While some stylesare sure to excite, there are a fewthat just won’t die down fastenough (let’s face it, crop topsaren’t for everyone).

Thankfully, the fringe trendis big. While we are often intro-duced to new trends, some justkeep repeating themselves. Suchis the case with the most ubiqui-tous 2015/2016 fad, fringe.

Though fringe may seem a

little tricky to pull off, you don’thave to be “living in the 70s,” aBohemian fan or a western cow-girl to pull it off. No matter yourstyle, fringe can easily be incor-porated into your wardrobe.Fringe works really well on pon-chos, coats, jackets, dresses andthe hems on skirts. It’s also fab-ulous on accessories such asscarves, handbags and shoes.Needless to say, you can wearthis free-spirited look just aboutanywhere, and it’s easier thanyou think.

I particularly love fringe asan accessory. Whether it’s on aclutch, bucket bag or cross bodybag, a fringed handbag can takeyou from geek to chic in a hurry.You can even try a fringed bag ina bright color to make yourstreet style pop.

Fringed jewelry continues tobe prevalent. Although Tiffanyhas popularized the look with itsrecent Art Deco-based Jazz andZiegfield collections, beaded tas-seled necklaces actually originat-ed in Edwardian times. You maybe bold enough to try a fullfringe statement necklace, or acool pair of wispy earrings. If

you just want to add a littlefringe to your accessory styling,keep it simple with a colorfultassel necklace.

Another easy way to rampup your style with this trend is tofind a fun fringed bootie orheels; it will take a classic outfitand give it just enough edge tomake a fashion statement.

Though fringe might seemlike a trickier trend to pull off, itworks really well on coats, jack-ets and skirts, as well as on acces-sories like handbags and shoes.Needless to say, you can wear it

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Fringe takes you from geek to chic

Lone wolf strugglesto change the Church

While attending the North-ern California IndependentBooksellers Association tradeshow back in October, I pickedup a copy of “Pope FrancisAmong the Wolves, The InsideStory of a Revolution” (Colum-bia University Press; Tra edition,September, 2015). Who amongus wouldn’t like to get the insidescoop on Jorge Mario Bergoglio,better known today as PopeFrancis? And who better towrite about this surprising newArgentinian Bishop of Romethan Marco Politi, journalist andVatican correspondent who hascovered the Vatican for “LaRepubblica,” ABC, BBC, CNNand others for more than 30years?

One doesn’t have to beCatholic to wonder what isgoing on in Rome and what theodds might be that Pope Franciswill be able to implement thesteps he believes the CatholicChurch must take to walk intothe modern world. As much asPoliti does not shy away fromdiscussion of church dogma andtradition, this is a book aboutpolitics, about running a churchstate’s (The Vatican) govern-ment. Although the author cov-ers a lot of ground – after all, theCatholic Church may be the

largest institutional organizationin the world – the ground cov-ered most thoroughly is Italian.Unlike Saint Francis, the Pope’snamesake, this Argentinian mustdeal with more than one wolf.Brother Wolf, who had bedev-iled the Italian town of Gubbio,pales in comparison to thewolves in the Vatican, whoexhibit sexual misconduct, scan-dalous money mismanagement,national political involvement,gluttonous appetites for power,and an entrenched disregard forwomen.

All it takes is a look at thebook’s chapter titles to get a tasteof what is covered, as in thissampling: “2 - Francis’s Fear ... 5- The End of the ImperialChurch ... 11 - The Program ofthe Revolution ... 12 - St. PeterHad No Bank Account ... 14 -The War of the Cardinals ... 15 -The Italian Knot.” The book

begins with the machinations ofwhat went on before and duringthe conclave, the assembly ofcardinals gathered to elect thepope. Once elected, the authorwrites of the Pope from thevoices of his friends and ene-mies and from the Pope’s ownwords, both from his writingsand interviews.

What makes reading thisbook, at this time, so eerilyfamiliar is that we in the U.S. arein the political throes of decid-ing who will be our next Presi-dent, something that involves alot of money, intractable posi-tions, fear of change, dema-goguery and cover-ups, ad nau-seam. Now, back to Rome.

As much as the book illumi-nates many things the public hasknown from hearsay and rumor,it is not an expose. Politi hasfleshed out a most unique man,a man of intelligence, depth andspirituality, a man who wants toreturn the Church to the people,fully aware that his journey willbe an uphill struggle. “Andalthough he is engaged in anenormous effort to reshape theCatholic Church, he does notpretend to determine the exactform it will assume in the end.”This is one terrific read.

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The sun is sets earlythroughout the winter months,and as the darkness falls yourlandscape and garden can dis-appear into the shadows. Asidefrom the few moonlit nights,we must rely on exterior light-ing to prolong our garden andlandscape enjoyment.

Illuminating ornamentaltrees is a desirable element inany landscape. Position bulletstyle, well or flood style lightswithin the drip-line of selectornamental trees. Illuminatesome of the trunk, as well asthe crown to cast a pleasinglight. Japanese Maples, ormulti-trunk Fruitless Olivetrees, become attractiveevening landscape featureswhen up-lit.

Pathway, or walkway light-ing, is a both a wanted and nec-essary landscape or garden ele-ment. Spreading beams oflight helps visitors navigatethrough the area, as well as

leads one’s eye to a particularfeature. There are many exteri-or lighting styles to considerusing for pathway/walkwayillumination, and whether youare seeking a traditional, con-temporary or casual look, theoptions are endless. It’s a goodidea to place some distancebetween pathway lights — theyare there to set parameters, andgive a suggestion of the walk-way. Place lights near interest-ing plants along the walk toemphasize color and texture.

Uplighting the façade ofthe home enhances the look ofboth the home and the land-scape. Use bullet-style lights tohighlight the corners of thehome, or architectural detail.Fixtures should be installed toframe the entry. Wall space can

be highlighted with a soft-washflood or well style lights.

Sitting areas can be high-lighted using indirect lighting.Consider using overhead stringlighting, lamps or lanterns. Thenatural light given off by afirepit is a lovely source ofindirect lighting too.

Hardscape lighting are thelights placed within the hard-scape during new construction.If you are building a retainingwall, consider placing outdoorlighting beneath the top-cap.Hardscape lighting may also beinstalled into stairways, bar-beque islands and aroundwater features.

One rule of outdoor light-ing is balance. Outdoor land-scape lighting needs to high-light not only the landscape,

but the walkways, focal pointsand the structure itself. Theother rule is that less is more— we don’t need to illuminateeach and every boulder andshrub.

Landscape lighting has theability to catapult a garden orlandscape setting from typicalto exceptional.

Today’s technology regard-ing exterior landscape lightingis innovative. Outdoor lightingcan now have color changes,be dimmed or brightened allwith the swipe of your figureon your smart phone. It is real-ly remarkable.

Light up your winter gardens

Microsoft has been publi-cizing its Windows 10 softwarerelease since July of 2015, andthe public is been eating it up.The software giant estimates140 million are using thisamazing operating system withfew issues and problems alongthe way. But, there have beensome notable matters when itcomes to third-party softwareimproperly maintained by themanufacturer. So, be aware,before you start your upgradeto Windows 10, you may needto clean house.

Windows 10 smashes all-time records and moves intofirst place. The initial roll-out isless than a year old and alreadyhas 140 million devoted fol-lowers. This record far out-strips Apple, Android, Linux,Windows XP and others whenthey were released. Now, Win-

dows 10 is the new benchmark.For some, however, it hassome challenges.

Primary issues include out-dated software created by thirdparties like AOL. If you runAOL desktop software, be pre-pared to have your computerserviced to remove an annoy-ing “side-by-side” error thatcauses your computer to mal-function. AOL has had a con-flict with these system filessince its initial release nearly 20years ago. No one at AOL canfix it, so we recommendremoving it altogether and notusing anything from AOL.

Frequent issues with Win-dows 10 upgrades are browserfailures due to incompatibilityand the lack of upgrades bythe manufacturer. Stick withInternet Explorer or Chromeas a browser choice, delete orremove the others, like Mozil-la/Firefox, Safari, Opera etc.,before attempting yourupgrade and you will avoid thisissue. Having a bad browseralso causes issues with youremail, so it’s best to rid yourcomputer of these outdatedapplications before you startyour upgrade.

Do you have an older print-er with gobs of printer soft-ware installed? Example, soft-ware explaining the printer islow on ink. Remove the printer

and all the software that comeswith it before you attempt aWindows 10 upgrade. Avoidthe issues surrounding printerincompatibility. Disconnect theold printer from your comput-er, remove the software, anddelete the printer from theControl Panel. Upgrade toWindows 10 then plug yourprinter back in. Windows willdetect it as an uninstalled print-er and install the correct soft-ware. If Windows doesn’tautomatically install your print-er then download the latestWindows 10 software from theprinter manufacturer.

Antivirus software canimpede the installation ofWindows 10 and should, there-fore, be switched off duringthe two-to-four hour upgradeprocess and switched back onafter Windows is running satis-factorily.

All these issues result fromthe inability of software tokeep current and to embraceMicrosoft’s way. For example,Internet Providers (IPs) fail tokeep their software current and

patched as Microsoft makeschanges. McAfee provided by aComcast or AT&T as free anti-viruses is the worst. McAfeeworks fine if you buy it fromMcAfee, but the free versionsthe IPs provide are alteredslightly by the IP Company,then never updated.

In conclusion, Windows 10is a marvelous O/S and workswell across multiple hardwareplatforms and devices; howev-er, third party software that isnot maintained either by themanufacturer or by the individ-ual user cause the greatestissues with your upgrade. Toupgrade your computer toWindows 10 remove or replaceold software before youupgrade and then reinstallnewer versions after Windows10 is up and running. If yourun into problems along theway, or simply need advice,contact your local authorizedMicrosoft dealer.

By the way: Microsoft willNEVER call you and say theythink your computer is infect-ed. It’s a scam, don’t fall for it.

Tips for installing Windows 10

wIll ClANey

TECH TALK

William Claney is an independenttech writer and former owner of Com-puters USA in the Clayton Station.Email questions or comments [email protected].

NICole HACKeTT

GARDEN GIRL

Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden.You can contact her with questions orcomments by email at [email protected]

DEC 11 Clayton Pioneer 2015

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