JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

18
Old idea with a new spin, some good BBQ and a rockin’ country band made for a great party last month when more than 500 reached into their closets and dusted off their cowboy boots for the Roundup for Relay, a catered BBQ on July 11 at the Easley Ranch on Marsh Creek Rd. Ticket sales, a silent auc- tion and several very generous donors raised over $80,000 for cancer research. Each year, cancer sur- vivors, caregivers and those committed to finding a cure, walk in the worldwide Ameri- can Cancer Society Relay for Life weekends. Clayton’s first Relay for Life was in 2011 and has become one of the most suc- cessful in the state. The seeds for this year’s Roundup for Relay fundraiser were planted in 2013 when friends and supporters of Christy Harris formed Team Christy, a Clayton mother of three who was in advanced stages of bone cancer. That year, more than 100 walked with Christy and her husband Joel in the Clayton Relay, rais- ing more than $33,000. Walk- ing on that team was another mother and popular Clayton woman, Anu Ray who was to lose her own battle with can- cer the following year. Her friends, family and supporters, buoyed by the successful efforts of Team Christie, formed a new team for their friend. Team Anu included Clay- ton’s Debra Gonsalves of the Conco Cement family, who was deeply grieving both her good friend Anu Ray and her father who died the same month. “It’s so hard for family and friends to see a loved one suf- fer and lose the battle they were fighting,” Gonsalves said. “Since then, I made a promise to try and help find a cure for all cancers.” Gonsalves was at a place in her life when she had some extra time on her hands. She started writing letters, sending emails and making phone calls. That year, Team Anu raised more than $15,000. “From there, it snow- balled,” said Pat Middendorf, one of the driving forces in the fundraising effort and also a close friend of Anu Ray. In 2015, more supporters joined Team Anu and the Relay team raised more than $40,000. The ACS recognized the Clayton Relay as one of the major fundraisers in the state that year. They were on a roll. They wanted to go bigger. Recalling the old CBCA Roundup that was held at the Easley Ranch several years ago, they began plans to resurrect the event. They approached Robert Easley with the idea and he was on board. Local movers and shakers jumped in, friends and other supporters joined the effort. Other Relay teams merged with Team Anu and no one said it was a bad idea, too big or too weird. “We love it when our vol- unteers think outside the box,” said Grace Chang, com- munity coordinator for the ACS Relay for Life program. “It’s pretty typical for Relays to have extra fundrais- ing events,” she said “But not on the scale of these guys. This was extraordinary.” “I couldn’t believe the incredible response from everyone,” said Gonsalves, who called in a few favors, netting sizeable donations from the Seeno family and Ken Hoffman. The Gonsalves also donated all the catering and food. The men from DVR, the IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016 925.672.0500 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA 94517 PERMIT 190 Postal Customer ECRWSS What’s Inside Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Community Calendar . . . . .13 Directory of Advertisers . . . .7 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Police Report . . . . . . . . . . .14 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 No longer a teen prodigy, veteran diver Kristian Ipsen heads to Rio Donna Ipsen Jonas KRISTIAN IPSEN CLAIMED THE TOP SPOT at the U.S. Olympic Diving Trials late last month in three-meter spring- board. A bronze medalist from the London Games, the Clayton diver won by a large margin over runner-up Michael Hixon. They’ll both compete in Rio de Janeiro in the 3M. Clayton’s Centenarian Club: As mayor, one of my missions is to meet and greet as many peo- ple as possible. When I moved to Clayton in 1974, it had a pop- ulation of about 2,800. Today’s population is 11,288. Though Clayton is still considered a small city, the diversity of our residents is vast. We have become a ham- let to many who found our par- adise. The other day as I walked by the Grove Park with one of my new bandleaders, I noticed a woman taking care of an elderly senior. Engaging them in con- versation enlightened me that Clayton is the home of Wilbur Daily, who just celebrated his 103rd birthday. Wilbur was alert Mayor on the lookout for local centenarians HOWARD GELLER MAYOR’S CORNER A new exciting water fea- ture and an almost inaudible “mosquito” are causing quite a buzz around the Grove these days. Last summer, the chil- dren’s water feature in the Grove was literally a dry hole, no matter how hot it got. Rationing during the drought left no water for fun things like the water feature, the dog watering spigot and the city’s fountain. But with the relaxed restrictions recently announced by Contra Costa Water District and new, more efficient equipment, the mini- geysers are spouting higher than ever. The new feature is both more fun and more effi- cient, says city manager Gary Napper. The new splasher replaces the feature installed when the park was built more than 10 years ago. To meet current health regulations, the old fea- ture would have required treatment equipment that “would have been larger than the picnic shade structure,” Napper says. Cost of the upgraded splash features, a programma- ble controller and new resilient pad was about $55,000. The water feature runs every day 8 a.m.-9 p.m. except on concert days, when the water is shut off at 5 p.m. Across the lawn, a high- frequency transmitter emits a buzzing sound audible mainly 7- YEAR-OLD MICHAEL M. FROM PLEASANT HILL tests the speed and height of the spray jets in The Grove’s new water feature. They pass, he said. ROUNDUP FOR RELAY LEADERS JIM AND PAT MIDDENDORF (left) and major donors Steve and Debra Gonsalves worked with a “whole village” of volunteer efforts that put the Clayton event among the most successful American Cancer Society fundraisers in the state. He’s not a Stanford fresh- man just a year out of De La Salle High like he was in 2012 when as a 19-year-old he went to the London Olympics. Clayton’s globetrotting Kristian Ipsen is now one of the veterans on the United States Olympic diving team prepping for the Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro starting in less than a month. Ipsen won a bronze medal in the three-meter synchronized event four years ago with part- ner Troy Dumais who was tak- ing part in his fourth Olympics. Ipsen and Dumais lost out on a chance to compete again when they finished second at the recent Olympic Trials in Indi- anapolis. Showing the maturity and experience he’s gained over the past quadrennial Ipsen, now 23, was able to put aside that disap- pointment and resultant pres- sure to have two excellent days and win the Olympic Trials 3M JAY BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer Geysers and buzzers signal summer in The Grove TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer Rockin’ new Roundup raises $80,000 for Relay TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer See Ipsen, page 11 See Mayor, page 11 See Relay, page 11 See Grove, page 11

description

 

Transcript of JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Page 1: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Old idea with a new spin,some good BBQ and a rockin’country band made for a greatparty last month when morethan 500 reached into theirclosets and dusted off theircowboy boots for theRoundup for Relay, a cateredBBQ on July 11 at the EasleyRanch on Marsh Creek Rd.

Ticket sales, a silent auc-tion and several very generousdonors raised over $80,000 for cancer research.

Each year, cancer sur-vivors, caregivers and thosecommitted to finding a cure,walk in the worldwide Ameri-can Cancer Society Relay forLife weekends.

Clayton’s first Relay forLife was in 2011 and hasbecome one of the most suc-cessful in the state.

The seeds for this year’sRoundup for Relay fundraiserwere planted in 2013 whenfriends and supporters ofChristy Harris formed TeamChristy, a Clayton mother ofthree who was in advancedstages of bone cancer. Thatyear, more than 100 walkedwith Christy and her husband

Joel in the Clayton Relay, rais-ing more than $33,000. Walk-ing on that team was anothermother and popular Claytonwoman, Anu Ray who was tolose her own battle with can-cer the following year.

Her friends, family andsupporters, buoyed by thesuccessful efforts of TeamChristie, formed a new teamfor their friend.

Team Anu included Clay-ton’s Debra Gonsalves of theConco Cement family, whowas deeply grieving both hergood friend Anu Ray and herfather who died the samemonth.

“It’s so hard for family andfriends to see a loved one suf-fer and lose the battle theywere fighting,” Gonsalvessaid. “Since then, I made apromise to try and help find acure for all cancers.”

Gonsalves was at a place inher life when she had someextra time on her hands. Shestarted writing letters, sendingemails and making phonecalls.

That year, Team Anu

raised more than $15,000. “From there, it snow-

balled,” said Pat Middendorf,one of the driving forces inthe fundraising effort and alsoa close friend of Anu Ray.

In 2015, more supportersjoined Team Anu and theRelay team raised more than$40,000. The ACS recognizedthe Clayton Relay as one ofthe major fundraisers in thestate that year.

They were on a roll. Theywanted to go bigger. Recallingthe old CBCA Roundup thatwas held at the Easley Ranchseveral years ago, they beganplans to resurrect the event.They approached RobertEasley with the idea and hewas on board. Local moversand shakers jumped in, friendsand other supporters joinedthe effort. Other Relay teamsmerged with Team Anu andno one said it was a bad idea,too big or too weird.

“We love it when our vol-unteers think outside thebox,” said Grace Chang, com-munity coordinator for theACS Relay for Life program.

“It’s pretty typical forRelays to have extra fundrais-ing events,” she said “But noton the scale of these guys.This was extraordinary.”

“I couldn’t believe the

incredible response fromeveryone,” said Gonsalves,who called in a few favors,netting sizeable donationsfrom the Seeno family andKen Hoffman. The Gonsalves

also donated all the cateringand food.

The men from DVR, the

IT’S YOUR PAPER

www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016 925.672.0500

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDCLAYTON, CA 94517

PERMIT 190

Postal CustomerECRWSS

What’s InsideAround Town . . . . . . . . . . . .2Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Community Calendar . . . . .13Directory of Advertisers . . . .7Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Police Report . . . . . . . . . . .14Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

No longer a teen prodigy, veterandiver Kristian Ipsen heads to Rio

Donna Ipsen Jonas

KRISTIAN IPSEN CLAIMED THE TOP SPOT at the U.S. olympic Diving Trials late last month in three-meter spring-board. A bronze medalist from the london Games, the Clayton diver won by a large margin over runner-upMichael Hixon. They’ll both compete in rio de Janeiro in the 3M.

Clayton’s Centenarian Club:As mayor, one of my missions isto meet and greet as many peo-ple as possible. When I movedto Clayton in 1974, it had a pop-ulation of about 2,800. Today’spopulation is 11,288. ThoughClayton is still considered a smallcity, the diversity of our residentsis vast. We have become a ham-let to many who found our par-adise.

The other day as I walked bythe Grove Park with one of mynew bandleaders, I noticed awoman taking care of an elderlysenior. Engaging them in con-versation enlightened me thatClayton is the home of WilburDaily, who just celebrated his103rd birthday. Wilbur was alert

Mayor on the lookout for localcentenarians

HowArD Geller

MAYOR’S CORNER

A new exciting water fea-ture and an almost inaudible“mosquito” are causing quitea buzz around the Grovethese days.

Last summer, the chil-dren’s water feature in theGrove was literally a dry hole,no matter how hot it got.Rationing during the droughtleft no water for fun thingslike the water feature, the dogwatering spigot and the city’sfountain.

But with the relaxedrestrictions recentlyannounced by Contra CostaWater District and new, moreefficient equipment, the mini-geysers are spouting higherthan ever. The new feature isboth more fun and more effi-cient, says city manager GaryNapper.

The new splasher replacesthe feature installed when thepark was built more than 10years ago. To meet currenthealth regulations, the old fea-ture would have requiredtreatment equipment that

“would have been larger thanthe picnic shade structure,”Napper says.

Cost of the upgradedsplash features, a programma-ble controller and newresilient pad was about$55,000. The water featureruns every day 8 a.m.-9 p.m.except on concert days, whenthe water is shut off at 5 p.m.

Across the lawn, a high-frequency transmitter emits abuzzing sound audible mainly

7-YEAR-OLD MICHAEL M. FROM PLEASANT HILL tests the speedand height of the spray jets in The Grove’s new water feature. They pass, he said.

ROUNDUP FOR RELAY LEADERS JIM AND PAT MIDDENDORF (left) and major donors Steve andDebra Gonsalves worked with a “whole village” of volunteer efforts that put the Claytonevent among the most successful American Cancer Society fundraisers in the state.

He’s not a Stanford fresh-man just a year out of De LaSalle High like he was in 2012when as a 19-year-old he went tothe London Olympics. Clayton’sglobetrotting Kristian Ipsen isnow one of the veterans on theUnited States Olympic divingteam prepping for the SummerGames in Rio de Janeiro startingin less than a month.

Ipsen won a bronze medal inthe three-meter synchronizedevent four years ago with part-ner Troy Dumais who was tak-ing part in his fourth Olympics.Ipsen and Dumais lost out on achance to compete again whenthey finished second at therecent Olympic Trials in Indi-anapolis.

Showing the maturity andexperience he’s gained over thepast quadrennial Ipsen, now 23,was able to put aside that disap-pointment and resultant pres-sure to have two excellent daysand win the Olympic Trials 3M

JAY BEDECARRÉ

Clayton Pioneer

Geysers and buzzers signal summer in The GroveTAMARA STEINERClayton Pioneer

Rockin’ new Roundup raises $80,000 for RelayTAMARA STEINERClayton Pioneer

See Ipsen, page 11See Mayor, page 11

See Relay, page 11

See Grove, page 11

Page 2: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Students from three dif-ferent local schools werehonored by the mayor andthe city council for their highstandards of integrity and forshowing great courage indecision making.

The students were allnominated for the recogni-tion by their teachers.

The awards are part ofthe Do the Right Thing com-munity initiation launched in2011. The program focuseson six different charactertraits, rotating them through-out the year. These studentswere honored for Integrityand Courage. In August andSeptember, the spotlightedtrait is Responsibility, fol-lowed by Respect, Kindnessand Self-Discipline.

DTRT is supported by theschools and the ClaytonPolice Department and local

officials. Ron Musch, repre-senting AssemblywomanSusan Bonilla was at the

meeting to congratulate thestudents and to recognize theCity of Clayton for its

encouragement of the con-tinuing program.

Around Town Page 2 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016

City Council doubles down on Do the Right Thing

HONORED FOR THEIR INTEGRITY: Back row: Jesse reyes and John Parker from DVMS, Hosnaoeyany from CVCHS. Front row: Jake Berger and Katerina Pavlovich, both from MDeS.

Self-portraits created byveterans who took a paintingworkshop last fall hang on thewalls throughout the ClaytonLibrary. Some will make yousmile, others will bring tears.

A California Arts Councilgrant made possible theABOUTFACE art class whichwas free to veterans whoexplored their experiences inthe transition from military tocivilian life through creatingthe self-portraits.

The exhibit will be at theClayton Community Librarythrough July 2016.

Veterans’ self portraits on exhibit at Clayton Library

CHRISTINA SIMONOFACRYLIC SELF-PORTRAIT

US AIR FORCE2000-2006

W.A. HOWARDFEELS LIKE A NUMBER

US NAVY1961-1966

Sean T. Layton of Clayton,recently completed the 27-week cadet-training course atthe California Highway PatrolAcademy.  He is assigned toduty at the CHP’s OaklandArea office.

Officer Layton is a 2010graduate of De La Salle HighSchool. He holds a Bachelor ofScience in kinesiology fromArizona State University. 

Cadet training includedvehicle patrol, accident investi-gation, first aid, and capture-and-arrest of suspected viola-tors, including those who driveunder the influence of alcoholor drugs.  Training at the CHPAcademy also covered trafficcontrol, report writing, recov-ery of stolen vehicles, assistingthe motoring public, issuing

citations, emergency scenemanagement, and knowledgeof various codes including theVehicle Code, Penal Code, andHealth and Safety Code.

De La Salle grad joinsCalifornia Highway Patrol

SEAN LAYTON

1052 Feather Circle . . . . . . . $580,000 . . . . .1338 . . . . . .2/2 . . . . . . . .6/6165850 Pine Hollow Rd . . . . . . $649,000 . . . . .1494 . . . . . .3/2 . . . . . . . .6/6/16121 Mt. Shasta Court . . . . . . $815,000 . . . . .2619 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .6/3/161288 Shell Circle . . . . . . . . . $549,000 . . . . .1367 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . . .6/2/16118 Crow Place . . . . . . . . . . $823,200 . . . . .2313 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . . .6/1/16809 Chert Place . . . . . . . . . . $450,000 . . . . .1235 . . . . . .2/2 . . . . . . . .6/1/16560 Mt. Olivet Pl. . . . . . . . . . $815,000 . . . . .2960 . . . . . .5/3 . . . . . . .5/27/16

1027 Pebble Beach Dr. . . . . $1,125,000 . . .3307 . . . . . .4/2.5 . . . . .6/24/16327 Saclan Terrace . . . . . . . $575,000 . . . . .1749 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .6/23/163407 Coyote Cir . . . . . . . . . . $590,000 . . . . .1595 . . . . . .3/2.5 . . . . .6/17/16354 Blue Oak Lane . . . . . . . $1,025,000 . . .3373 . . . . . .5/3.5 . . . . .6/16/165611 Shasta Court . . . . . . . . $611,000 . . . . .1496 . . . . . .3/3 . . . . . . .6/15/161411 Indianhead Circle . . . . $560,000 . . . . .1709 . . . . . .3/3 . . . . . . .6/14/16336 Mt. Washington Way . . . $749,000 . . . . .1740 . . . . . .4/2 . . . . . . .6/14/16

ClaytonMarketUpdate provided byBetter HomesRealty

Helping friends, neighbors and newcomers buy and sell since 1979

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated. Better Homes BRE#00933393

ADDRESS PRICE SF BED/BATH SALE DATE ADDRESS PRICE SF BED/BATH SALE DATE

George Vujnovich,Broker, Clayton Resident

(925) 672-4433cell: (925) [email protected]

Jennifer StojanovichBroker-AssociateLifelong Clayton/Concord Resident

(925) [email protected]

Diane and Bill HayesRealtor-AssociateClayton Residents

(925) [email protected]

www.georgevujnovich.com

www.jenniferstojanovich.com

homesbydianehayes.comCal BRE #01222762

Cal BRE #01446062

Cal BRE #00933393

Chaparral Springs atOakhurst Country Club! $554,900

1189 Shell Lane – Clayton

Dana Hills Rancher! $815,000

121 Mt. Shasta Ct. – Clayton

Rarely AvailableSingle Story inEagle Peak atOakhurst CountryClub! 3 bedrooms plusa den, 2 baths, approx.2505sf & 3 car garage!Open & inviting floorplan. Large low mainte-nance lot! $859,000

407 Wawona Ln. – Clayton

Chaparral Springsat Oakhurst Coun-try Club! Popular“Manzanita” modelfeaturing 3 bedrooms,2.5 baths, approx.1355sf with insidelaundry & 2 cargarage! Walk to down-town! $519,000

1197 Shell Lane – Clayton

Fantastic locationnestled at therear of desirableLime Ridge backingto open space in anatural setting withdrought resistant land-scape! 4 bedrooms +a den, 2.5 baths, ap-

prox. 2391 sf! Huge private lot features multiple deckareas for entertaining and enjoying nature. $699,000

1157 Fair Weather Cir. – Concord

Spectacular "Ser-enade model" inFalcon Ridge atOakhurst CountryClub 3 bedrooms, 3bathrooms, plus denand bonus room ap-prox. 2843sf with anattached 3 car

garage. Gourmet kitchen opens to family room with up-graded river rock faced fireplace. Huge lot offers trelliscovered patio and built in BBQ. $899,000

8015 Kelok Way – Clayton

Amazing Clayton ValleyHighlands Remodel! $549,000

5536 Pennsylvania Blvd. – Concord

Spectacular CustomHome tucked awayin an irreplaceablesetting backing toopen space @ thetop of Davis Ridge!4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths,approx. 3305sf & 3 cargarage! Private Oasis lot

is approx. .56 acres! COMING SOON

5799 Pepperridge Wy. – Concord

Sharp Updated Single Story on aCourt! 4 bedrooms, 2.5baths, approx. 2010sf &inside laundry. Granitekitchen, engineeredhardwood floors, crown

moulding, deco paint & new carpet are just some of themany upgrades! Private low maintenance lot features“Heavenly Greens” lawn & Mt. Diablo views! $759,000

8 Malibu Court – Clayton

Build Your DreamHome! on this levelone acre lot in a desir-able area of customhomes with views ofMt. Diablo!

$200,000

3610 Brown Road – Oakley

PENDINGPENDING

PENDINGPENDING

SOLDSOLD

STUDENTS RECOGNIZED FOR COURAGE: Back row: Alison ewing and Gunner oakley both fromDVMS, Destiny rinehart from CVCHS; Front row: Sofia Carmichael, leilani Barnes andelaura wakefield all MDeS students.

Page 3: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Saturdays 6 to 8:30 p.m.

At the Gazebo in The GroveSet up chairs and blankets on the lawn after 4 p.m.

Concerts

in The Grovein The Grove

July 9 Retromaniax 8-piece, high-energy dance band. Performing hits from the 60s

July 16 The Houserockers 10-piece dance band plays Rock, Swing, Blues, 60s Soul & R & B.

July 23 Larry Lynch & the Mob Energetic music for the masses with a song list spanning 7 decades

July 30 Cut Loose Musicians, vocals and a tight rhythm section play Rock, Blues & Soul.

Aug. 13 Diamond Dave Clayton favorite returns playing the greatest hits of our time.

Aug. 27 Hot Rods Band 50s/60s tribute to cruisin' cars, sock- hops, beach parties and Rock-n-Roll.

Sept. 10 East Bay Mudd Back by popular demand, a 10-piece Soul, Funk & R & B dance band

For information go to www.cityofclayton.org

Car Show 6-8 p.m; Concerts 7-8:30 p.m.

July 6 Mixed Nuts –hits from 40s to present

July 20 Tone Pony –Rockin’ Country

Aug. 3 PhD’s Band –Latin Rock and Funk

Aug. 17 Car Show, onlyAug. 31 Car Show, only

2016 Wednesday Night Classic Carand Concert in the Grove Schedule

Around Town

July 8, 2016 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Page 3

Cadet Brandon WayneRoberts, son of Mr. and Mrs.Kevin Roberts of Clayton,graduated from the U.S. Mili-tary Academy on May 21. He isa 2012 graduate of De La SalleHigh School

While at West Point, heearned a Bachelor of Sciencein Systems Engineering. Hewas commissioned as a secondlieutenant in the U.S. Armywithin the TransportationCorps branch and will reportto Fort Lewis, Wash., for hisfirst assignment.

Brandon Roberts graduatesfrom West Point

BRANDON ROBERTS

Jonathan Sullivan of BoyScout Troop 484 has earnedthe rank of Eagle Scout.

Jonathan, a 2016 graduateof De La Salle High School,has been involved in scoutingsince first grade, starting withCub Scout Pack 262. For years,he participated in the annualChristmas tree pickup in Clay-ton and enjoyed getting lost inpiles of trees in the back of atruck.

For his Eagle Scout com-munity service project,Jonathan constructed stonewalls and benches for EaglePeak Montessori School inWalnut Creek.

During his Scouting career,Jonathan attended thePhilmont Ranch for Scouts inNew Mexico, camped for 65nights, hiked over 238 miles

and served in numerous leader-ship positions, including seniorpatrol leader. Jonathan will beattending UCSB in the fall.

Jonathan Sullivan earnsEagle Scout rank

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

(1/2014-12/31/2014). Data by Maxebrdi

"Like" us on - Windermere Clayton!

Lynne & Sylvia offer free staging on ALL LISTINGS

2160 Blue Rock Cir., Concord $729,000Canyon Creek – Light & Bright 4 bedroom, 2.5bath home that backs to open space. Soaring ceil-ings, dual pane windows, and 2-zoned heat/air.Gourmet kitchen with granite counters and island,inside laundry room & family room w/wet bar andfireplace. Gorgeous, private backyard with patio &gazebo.

4136 Phoenix St, Concord $469,000Heathstone – Don't miss this rare opportunity toown an amazing 4 bedroom, 2 bath Eichler homewith good bones. Go with an open mind to see thiscontractor special with tons of potential. Niceneighborhood near schools, shopping and publictransportation. Approx 1,795 square feet with a 2car garage and fenced backyard..

1007 Panadero Wy, Clayton $629,000Pine Hollow Gardens – Lovely 3 bedroom, 2bath home with refinished hardwood floors. Livingroom with cathedral ceiling and fireplace. Overquarter acre lot with Mt Diablo views. Great loca-tion, walk to downtown. Hurry, this one won’t last!

1634 Shiraz Ct, Brentwood $1,198,000Trilogy at the Vineyards – 2,751 sq ft, Rafael modelwith upgrades galore. 2 bedrooms + office & 2.5baths. 18 foot ceilings, plantation shutters, dark hard-wood flooring and central vac. Nearly 1/3 acre prop-erty with outdoor kitchen, covered patio and 2.5 cargarage on a cul-de-sac. Absolutely stunning!

1743 Indian Wells Wy, Clayton $599,000Black Diamond — Beautifullyupdated duet with large backyardincluding deck and mature trees.Light and bright with newer car-pet and soaring ceilings. You canwalk downtown from this 3 bed-room, 2.5 bath home in a desir-

able neighborhood with community pool

Michelle Gittleman, (925) 768-0352MichelleGittleman.com

Cal BRE# 01745325

207 Bigelow St, Clayton $829,000Regency Woods — Popular 4bedroom + den floor plan on overa quarter acre lot. Updatedkitchen, beautiful, distressed woodflooring, new carpet & fresh paint.Large entertainers yard with partialviews of mountains, spa, outdoor

bbq & huge deck. 3 large, custom storage shedsand RV/boat parking.

Michelle Gittleman, (925) 768-0352MichelleGittleman.com

Cal BRE# 01745325

369 Mt. Washington Wy, Clayton $949,980Dana Hills — Expanded, stun-ning remodel with Mt Diabloviews. 4 bedrooms including 2master suites, one on the first floor,and 3.5 bathrooms. Customkitchen, huge loft, massive laundry

room on .23 acre lot. Decorator touches throughoutwith no detail spared.

Heather Gray (925) 765-3822RealEstatebyHeather.com

Cal BRE#01329100

26 Cuesta Way, Walnut Creek $2,299,000Linda Vista — Gated estate inthe hills above Walnut Creek. 6bedrooms, 4 full & 2 half bathsplus an au pair unit. Exquisite at-tention to details and quality.Over a half acre, beautifully land-

scaped lot including an elegant patio for entertain-ing, and an oversized 3 car garage.

Kelly McDougall (925) 787-0448KellyMcDougall.comCal BRE#01156462

Sale Pen

ding

Sale Pen

ding

Sale Pen

ding

JONATHAN SULLIVAN

Dana Hills homesthreatened by fire

Residents in Dana Hills thatborder Mt. Diablo State Park gota heart-pounding dose of adren-alin last month when a fast mov-ing grass fire, whipped up by 25-30 mph winds, charred 50 acresin Mt. Diablo State Park onMonday, June 13.

The fire started in a pondnear the Mitchell Canyon stagingarea and quickly spread. Theflames came perilously close todozens of homes in Dana Hills,but was stopped short by a 30-foot fire break plowed just daysbefore.

A number of houses on Mt.Olivet Pl. and at the end ofMountaire Parkway might havebeen engulfed when windskicked up an advanced burn areabehind their homes had thefresh new fire break not been inplace.

According to Robert Mar-shall, public information officerfor the Contra Costa Fire Pro-tection District, the first alarmcame in at 11:04 a.m. The firstengines from Clayton’s Station11 and Concord’s Station 22were dispatched two minuteslater.

The fire started at the pondin the Mitchell Canyon area ofthe park and quickly spreadacross bone-dry grass. Heavygusts carried embers in all direc-tions, sparking additional fires,said Marshall.

Response was fast and furi-ous, said Marshall, with 10engines, bulldozers and aircraftcoming from both CCCFPDand CalFire.

Neighbors in Dana Hillsbordering one of the fire out-breaks behind Mt. Olivet Pl. andMt. Everest Ct. were quickly onthe fire line with shovels andhoses, battling thick smoke andthreatening flames.

A Mt. Everest Ct. residentwho had moved into their homethe day before was shocked withflames scorching their backfence. A neighbor came over tohelp quell the threat.

The fire was fully containedin less than an hour. Mop upcrews were on the scene all day.

Cause of the fire is still underinvestigation, says CalFirespokesman. “We have not ruledout a human cause.”

CCCFPD AND CALFIRE CREWS TAKE QUICK ACTION to stop awind-whipped grass fire in the open space behind DanaHills on June 13.

Page 4: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Page 4 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016

www.LeighKlockHomes.com 925.212.5593

Leigh Klock, RealtorSenior Real Estate SpecialistAccredited Staging Professional

[email protected]

This beautifully updatedDana Hills home withideal end of court locationboasts a desirable floorplan with 5 bedrooms and3 baths, including one fullbath and bedroom on firstlevel. This home also of-fers a fabulous oversizedlot with Mt. Diablo views,detached office/bonusroom, and 3 car garage.

Call for details.

CalBRE# 01874255

Custom Alamo homewith Craftsman styledetailing, 3 bedrooms,2.5 baths, 2,481 sq ft ofliving space, hardwoodfloors throughout andgourmet kitchen. Offered at $975,000

Keller Ridge Beauty4 bedroom 2.5 baths.Gourmet kitchen withgranite counters. Courtlocation with pool andspa. Adjacent to openspace. Offered at $849,000

SOLDSOLD

COMINGSOON

Get extensive online exposure to sell forTOP Dollar.

•Professional Property Photography.•Single Property Web & Mobile Sites.•Enhanced Listing Syndication. •Virtual Tour & YouTube Syndication.•Enhanced Analytics.

I will even market your home in 3D.

Interview me. It only takes about an hour.

No hassle. No obligations.

Hollie GuilloryBroker Associate License #01326295

925.382.8729Homesbyhollie.com

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

When you’re thinking of selling.

Sat. Aug. 6

Main Street Downtown ClaytonBBQ Ribs & Chicken • Beer • Margaritas

Bands, Kiddieland, Local Vendors & a KKDV Live Broadcast

• Pro Pitmasters and Backyard Chefs• Cash Prizes and Trophies Awarded to winning entrants• A Nationally Sanctioned Kansas City Barbecue Society

Competitor Series event

Free Admission • Family Fun

To enter or for more information, go to

www.claytoncbca.org

10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Tech camp makes science apriority for female students

Three Diablo View Mid-dle School students got handson with science and mathduring the Tech Trek camp atSonoma State June 19-25.

The Clayton branch ofthe American Association ofUniversity Women, with thehelp of a grant from theClayton Business and Com-munity Association, awardedthe camp scholarships toMegan Gherlone, EmilyGiadone and Parmis Farzane-gan.

“I so want to be an envi-ronmental biologist,” Megansays, noting that the camphelped focuse her interest inscience. “I picture myselfrestoring natural habitats.”

Emily wanted to learnhow to use her math skills tohelp create better buildingsand see how genetics affectthe human race. “I found outI was more interested in themedical field,” Emily says.This was partly due to asuture simulation on a stuffedanimal at a camp veterinaryclass and partly due to havingno bones about dissecting areal frog or cow’s eye.

Parmis says it was her firsttime going to a camp.“Everything I did there was afantastic experience,” shesays.

She felt better about herscience skills than she expect-ed. “I think I’ll study scienceclasses in school,” shereports. “My education wouldbe about being a pharmacist.”

Tech Trek is a nationalprogram originated byAAUW California to

continue girls’ interest in sci-ence, technology, engineeringand math fields after seventhgrade. According to theAAUW, these fields areunder-represented by women.

The girls live in the dormsat camp to enhance the expe-rience. Megan says she lovedstaying on campus, having aroommate and walking fromclass to class. The girls madenew friends throughout theBay Area that are just a textmessage away.

The days were structuredto attend classes in a core cat-egory of math or science inthe morning, discuss varioustopics in the afternoon suchas how to clean an oil spill orhow to prepare for collegeand go on a field trip to awater treatment plant, for

example. Female profession-als in math and science spokein the evening, or studentsexperienced more scienceopportunities. Viewing theplanets through a telescopewas a favorite activity.

The Diablo View facultynominated the girls for TechTrek. “All three were chosenfor work ethic in classrooms,exhibiting leadership qualitiesin the classroom such as par-ticipation, peer support andinterest in math and science,”says seventh-grade scienceteacher Cynthia Brewington.An AAUW committee theninterviewed and selected thenominees.

For more information, go to clay-tonaauw.org or aauw-techtrek.org.

EMILY GIADONE, MEGAN GHERLONE AND PARMIS FARZANEGAN

attended this year’s Tech Trek math and science camp atSonoma State.

PAMELAWIESENDANGER

Clayton Pioneer

Page 5: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

July 8, 2016 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Page 5

Ph: 925.672.9840 travel-2-go.comClayton Station Shopping Center 5439,

Clayton Road (Suite F) – Clayton

* Fares apply to minimum lead-in categories on a space-available basis at time of booking. Fares for other categories may vary. Fares are per guest, non-air, cruise- or cruisetour-only,based on double occupancy and apply to the first two guests in a stateroom. Offer is available to residents of the 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Bermuda and theDistrict of Columbia who are 21 years of age or older and receive this offer. Fares quoted in U.S. dollars. Offer has limited space regardless of cabin availability.

‡ All-Inclusive Beverage Package is applicable to guests 1 & 2 only who are 21 years of age or older and applies to guests booked in a balcony stateroom or above; value is $56.35USD per guest, per day on all voyages except for voyages departing from and returning to Australia and New Zealand. Value is $59 AUD (Australian dollars) per guest, per day onthose voyages; Unlimited Soda & More Package is valid only for guests 3 & 4 only in the same stateroom as guests 1 and 2. Offer is valid on voyages and cruise fares advertised inthis promotion only, applies to guests booked in a balcony stateroom or above. Offer is not applicable during the land portion of Land & Sea Vacations. Packages may be used on asingle voyage only, are not redeemable for cash at any point during the cruise and expire at the end of the voyage. Packages are assigned prior to sailing based on age of guest andwill be applied to the cruise card pre-boarding in the form of a sticker. In the event that the guest 1 & 2 do not want the unlimited beverage package, alternative shipboard creditamounts have been designated. Mixing and matching the All Inclusive Beverage Package and shipboard credit is not allowed on the same booking and guests 1 & 2 must choose thesame amenity. Alternate shipboard spending credit is not available to guests 3 & 4 for Unlimited Soda & More Package. Offer is not transferable, is not combinable with other selectoffers or other onboard credits, including, but not limited to Casino offers and Air discounts and does not follow guests who change promotions prior to cruising. All-Inclusive BeveragePackage includes all individual beverages priced up to $10 with the exception of voyages in Aust/NZ ($14) and China ($7). Please see princess.com for full details regarding bever-age packages.

† Specialty Dining voucher is applicable to voyages and cruise fares advertised in this promotion only, valid for guests one through four in a Mini-Suite or Suite Stateroom, and is notapplicable during the land portion of Land & Sea Vacations. Voucher will be delivered to the stateroom upon embarkation. Princess Cruises reserves the right to pre-assign SpecialtyDining times. Voucher may be used on a single voyage only, is not redeemable for cash and expires at the end of that voyage. Single stateroom guests will receive ONE specialty din-ing voucher. Offer is not transferable and may not be combinable with other select offers or other onboard credits. Specialty Dining offer expires July 5, 2016. Low deposit of $100 USD per guest made under Sip & Sail is refundable. Please refer to princess.com for terms, conditions and definitions that apply to all bookings Offer valid: June21 – August 31, 2016. Reference promotion code: N6- Note: For assistance reserving a wheelchair-accessible stateroom, please contact customer service at 1-800-774-6237. ©2016, Princess Cruises, Ltd. Ships of Bermudan and British registry.

CST #2033054-40

Like us on

305 Mountaire ParkwayDana Hills Single Level Beauty! 4 generous bedrooms 2 gorgeous baths w/ top of the line appointments on a level near .25acre VIEW lot! Remodeled Tip to Toe w/ sleek homechef kitchen, new wide plank flooring and carpets,fresh paint, insulated tile roof, newer HVAC andmore. Enjoy STRAIGHT AHEAD views of Mt. Diablo!

www.305MountaireParkway.com Fantastic Price $895,000

17 Capistrano CourtRegency’s Top Property Choice — 5 bedrooms / 2.5 baths, Stunning Gourmet kitchenwith slab, stainless, & top drawer cabinetry! Masterboasts light wonderful atrium addition! Hardwoodfloors, updated baths, ++ Perfect location adja-cent to open space w/ pool, garden play area andmore! Offered at $875,000

Realtor®, BRE#01370548 925.305.9099

STEPHANIE LOPEZASP Stager@ / Relocation Specialist

www.HousesbyStephanie.com

1736 Via Del Verdes Spectacular Custom Estate Property!Nestled on a private beautifully landscaped lane, this gorgeous single-level 3,500 sf home with5 bedrooms/3 baths also features an ADDITIONAL2,300 sf pristine shop w/full bath, built-ins & more!

Visit www.1736ViaDelVerdes.com for details. Offered at $1,399,000

VIEWS

Pending

Pending

Beautiful 4021 Siino Ave.FRESH! Completely transformed.This stunning top of the line everything homefeatures 4 bedrooms, 2.5 amazing baths, new newnew luxe kitchen, beautiful hardwood flooring, ele-gant custom plaster hearth, full-size built-in wine re-frigerator, huge lot & more! HURRY!

Offered at $625,000

Remodeled 585 Mt. Olivet Pl.PICTURE PERFECT! Elegant Dana Hillshome features 4 bedrooms and 3 NEW re-modeled baths! Impressive Master Suite, hugewalk-in closet & views! One bed/bath downstairstucked away for privacy. Large living room w/vaultedceilings, large dining room and chef’s pantry! Serenelocation abuts open space. Landscaped large yards

with patios, gardens, extra wide side yards, storage ++. Offered at $799,500

NEW

NEW

Coldwell Banker San Francisco Bay Area Top 100 Agent & International President's Circle Award recipient

The city’s finances are inexcellent shape says Clayton’sFinance Manager KevinMizuno. Thanks to continuedconservative spending, the citywill go into the 2016-17 fiscalyear with a healthy reserve anda $38,900 projected surplus inthe General Fund.

The city’s total budget forall funds is $13,997,205 whichincludes $4.3 million GeneralFund, $5.7 million to OtherFunds (restricted funds, specialrevenue funds, enterprise andfiduciary funds), $3 million forCapital Improvements and$1.1 million in the SuccessorAgency (what’s left after thestate killed off the Redevelop-ment Agencies).

Rising property taxes and atight grip on the checkbookallow the General Fund to gointo the new fiscal year with122 percent of the projected2016-17 expenses. This givesthe city a healthy reserve evenafter setting aside the “cata-strophic, never-to-be-touched”$250,000.

Capital projects for thecoming year include requiredADA improvements—addingnew handicap ramps to side-walks and improving existingones, completing sewerimprovements on El MolinoDr., and street rehab andpaving.

The city’s landscaping issafe for another 10 years. Vot-ers approved Measure H inJune which extended the Land-scape Maintenance District taxof $234.84 until 2027. Themeasure needed a two-thirdsvote. It passed with an over-whelming 79 percent.

City finances pretty much all good newsTAMARA STEINERClayton Pioneer

Graphic courtesy of City of Clayton

Page 6: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Bad guys to your left, badguys to your right and you’resmack in the middle of acyber-attack designed tocompromise your computer,steal your data, encrypt all ofit and then sell it back to you.

This “ransom-ware” mali-ciously invades your comput-er and turns all your data,photos, music, documents

and databases into digitalgarbage until you pay toretrieve it. Now there is a wayto stop these thieves withRemote Monitoring and Man-agement.

RMM services use Enter-prise, military grade, HIPAAcompliant versions of anti-virus that include crypto attackprotection and prevention.These powerful remote man-agement systems do the updat-ing, blocking and virus protec-tion.

According to SolarWindssources, people paid more than$18 million to ransomwarethieves between April 2014and June 2015. More than 6million detected ransomwareattack attempts occurred injust the fourth quarter of 2015,and more than 50 percent ofall malware issues are now ran-somware attacks.

The attacks are gettingworse and accelerating in fre-quency. They are expected totriple in 2016 and again in2017.

“Industry experts agreethat a staggering 93 percent ofphishing emails now containencryption ransomware (cryp-to locker virus),” SolarWindsreported. “Many emails areopened by end users who don’t

understand they are the targetsof carefully crafted social engi-neering.

For example, you mayreceive an email saying youowed a debt. And if you don’tpay, they are going to sue. Ofcourse, they attached a copy ofthe invoice you owe. Just clickand open it.

Another scam says thatyour order has been con-firmed. If you want to seewhat you ordered, just clickand open it. Or, it says yourcredit card has just beencharged. Please click here toconfirm the charge.

Most people are smartenough not to open untrustedemails, but what if an invita-tion to a birthday party camefrom your best friend? Or ifone titled “the results of your

lawsuit” was sent by your attor-ney? You would be duped ifthe email list was stolen.

It’s hard to know whichemail or internet ads are safe,and retail versions of anti-virusaren’t robust enough to stopthe threats. Our company hasstopped recommending stand-alone anti-virus and anti-mal-ware versions. We now recom-mend Enterprise versions only,but they had been expensiveand require constant upkeep.

Now Enterprise editionsare affordable and availablethrough a local distributionnetwork. The local networkacts as if it were a large compa-ny, redistributing resources tolocal users. This makes itaffordable. Think of it as aband of locals getting togetherto fight crime in their city, withthe local service provider assheriff.

You can’t buy this kind ofprotection outside of massivenetworks systems, so join oneof these networks throughyour local RMM serviceprovider.

Page 6 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016

Pete LaurenceBroker, Realtor, GRI DRE#00344166A ReMax Hall of Fame Realtor

ReMax Real Estate–Walnut Creek officeSelling Clayton & all Contra Costa

Call Pete today tosell your home

(925) 890-6004

The time is NOWThe time is NOW

KNOWLEDGE l SERVICE l INTEGRITY l RESULTS

This 4 bedroom, 2 bath is in Clayton’s sought after DanaHills, with its walking trails and cabana/pool! Having 4bedrooms, a family room and formal dining, it has severalpatio areas and ample room for RV parking, gardens and alarge low-maintenance lot. It is a single story, has hard-wood floors, custom moldings and will be ready to sell! $699,000

SOLD! Pete can sell

yours too.

Visit us onFacebook

Tues-Sat 10 - 5

1028 Diablo St., Clayton

All new look, same great style!Clothing boutique & dressing roomLarger baby departmentExpanded kitchen pantry

Clayton PrideCutting Board and Beverage Canteen

925-672-2025

www.EarthquakeArabians.com

OfferingAll-SeasonTraining & RidingInstruction

925.301.7496 3141 Morgan Territory Rd., Clayton

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

SummerCamp

July 18-22

SummerCamp

July 18-22

ed waraner8861 Marsh Creek rd, Clayton

Bonded and Fully Insured

Serving Northern California for Over 30 Years

24 HOUREMERGENCY

SERVICE

Residential &Commercial

l Specializing in large Hazardous Trees &Heritage oak trees

l Crane Servicel Tree & Stump removall Arborist Consultingl Arborist reportsl Pruning/Cablingl Fire Abatementl Custom Milled lumberl Firewood

CCC CertifiedFire Abatement

FREE ESTIMATES

www.waranerbrostree.com

Lic. #642272 Certified Arborist WE-3386A

Major Credit Cards Accepted

(925) 831-2323

Summer has arrived and weare seeing an increase of callsfor service.

I continue to remind every-one to be vigilant when secur-ing valuables and remember toalso protect your propertywhen you are on vacation.Always lock your residence andvehicles.

Recently the ClaytonPolice Department applied forand was awarded a grant fromthe California Department of

Alcoholic Beverage and Con-trol. This grant will assist thedepartment to assure compli-ance when alcohol is sold orserved at any of our specialevents or businesses in thecity.

The grant will provideeducational services to per-sonnel of any business orpermitted event staff wherealcohol is served to assure thelaws associated with the serv-ing of alcohol are followed.The police department willbe conducting “decoy” pro-grams to make sure that thebusinesses and alcohol per-mitted events are operatingwithin the laws.

This grant also will help

support some of the costsassociated with law enforce-ment services provided by thepolice department where alco-hol is served, sold or con-sumed.

At the end of the schoolyear at Mt Diablo ElementarySchool, some of my officershanded out ice cream to everystudent. This was our way ofintroducing ourselves to thechildren and wish them wellduring summer break. It wasenjoyable to see so many chil-dren smiling and talking withthe officers.

The calls for service andquality of life issues haveimproved at the Clayton Sta-tion. In a partnership with the

property manager of the com-plex and the business owners,especially the Safeway staff, wewere able provide a better envi-ronment for the patrons andemployees while offering assis-tance to those individuals will-ing to accept the opportunity.

Lastly, we are seeing a slightincrease in traffic accidents inthe city. Please be responsiblewhile driving.

Enjoy the summer and besafe. If something seems sus-picious, don’t hesitate to callus.

CHrIS weNzel

BEHIND THE BADGE

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

ABC grant helps police monitorevents where alcohol is sold, served

The Saint BonaventureCatholic Community is offer-ing another six-week workshopbeginning Tuesday, Aug. 23 forthose whose loved one hasdied.

If you or someone youknow is grieving the death of aloved one, Healing the Heartgrief companions would like

to invite you to attend the griefworkshop. It offers a safe placeto express grief and beginhealing after the loss of a lovedone. Each person’s grief isunique. The death of a lovedone is unlike any other loss.Whether the death was suddenand tragic, or one with warningand preparation, the reality of

death leaves most peopleshocked, confused and sad.These feelings may linger foryears. Healing the Heart griefcompanions have also lostsomeone who is dear to themand know the value of havingsomeone listen with theirheart.

The next grief workshop is

from 7:30 to 9 p.m. beginningAug. 23 at Saint BonaventureChurch, 5562 Clayton Road,Concord. There is no cost toattend the workshop; registra-tion is required by Aug. 10.Please call Helene Billeci at(925) 686-4870 for more infor-mation and to register.

Grief ministry helps after death of loved one

Remote monitoring can thwart cyber crime

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

wIll ClANey

TECH TALK

Page 7: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Business Services

Rising Moon Marketing & Public Relations . . . .672-8717

Construction and Trades

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

Belfast Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .457-5423

Diablo View Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822-5144

Gary’s Home Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .787-2500

Italian Heritage Tile & Stone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9000

J.A. Ronco Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .872-3049

Mr. Fix-it Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .825-0347

Tipperary Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216-2679

Dining and Entertainment

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

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

Events

CBCA – Rib Cook-Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2272Clayton Community Church –

Movie Nights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.claytoncc.com

Clayton Valley Church – Back 2 School Give . .672-3397Concerts in the Grove –

City of Clayton . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.cityofclayton.org

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

Financial, Insurance and Legal Services

Aragon, Al - Citibank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-697-5000

DuRee, Daniel – The Law Office of . . . . . . . . .210-1400

Geraghty, Colleen – Prudential . . . . . . . . . . . . .305-0321

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

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

Funerals

Ouimet Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682-4242

Home and Garden

Clayton Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-2299

Diablo Lawnscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381-3757

Interiors Panache . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-7920

Nichols Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9955

Skim ‘n’ Dip – Pool Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348-5609

The Maids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .798-6243

The Royal Rooster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-2025

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

Waraner Bros. Tree Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .831-2323

Waraner Tree Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-0334

Mailing Services

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

Photography

Rochellez Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .510-677-4170

Real Estate and Mortgage Services

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

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

French, Lynne – Windermere Real Estate . . . .672-8787

Guillory, Hollie – Alain Pinel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .382-8729

Hayes, Diane and Bill – Better Homes Realty .890-4701

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

Laurence, Pete – RE/MAX Realty . . . . . . . . . .890-6004

Lopez, Stephanie – Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . .305-9099

Mazzei, Matt – Mazzei Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-0757

Morucci, Kim – J. Rockcliff Realtors . . . . . . . . .437-1650

Stojanovich, Jennifer – Better Homes Realty . .567-6170

Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty . . . .672-4433

Recreation and Fitness

Earthquake Arabians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301-7496

Senior Services

Oakmont of Concord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .234-9576

Services, Other

ComputersUSA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-9989

Net Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672-6029

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

Travel

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

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.

LETTERS To THE EDIToRBoth Pioneer newspapers welcomeletters from our readers. As a generalrule, letters should be 175 words orless and submitted at least one weekprior to publication date. Lettersconcerning current issues will have

priority. We may edit letters forlength and clarity. All letters will bepublished at the editor’s discretion.Please include name, address anddaytime telephone number. We willnot print anonymous letters. E-mailyour letter to [email protected].

Letters must be submitted viaE-mail.

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, busi-nesses and post office boxes. Wecannot start or stop delivery toindividual addresses. This must bedone directly through the PostOffice.

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.

July 8, 2016 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Page 7

CourageDo the Right Thing

HELP WANTEDThe City of Clayton is hiring two full-time employees to

perform a variety of functions in the Maintenance Depart-ment. Under general supervision, each will perform entrylevel unskilled, semi-skilled or skilled labor in construction,maintenance, repair and related activities applied to theareas of general landscaping, grounds maintenance,cleaning of City Parks, City facilities, and street mainte-nance. The rate of pay is $3,427 to $4,164 monthly. Place-

ment within the range will be based upon the selectedcandidate’s experience in the tasks to be performed andsalary history.A city application is required to be completed and may

be obtained at City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, CA94517, online at www.ci.clayton.ca.us; or call (925) 673-7300 during regular business hours to have an applica-tion mailed. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m.July 15, 2016.

The subject was “greens” atthe June 30 meeting of the Clay-ton Business and CommunityAssociation at Oakhurst Coun-try Club.

CBCA voted to grant fundsto the Parent-Faculty Club ofMt. Diablo Elementary Schoolto establish a garden in front ofthe school as an outdoor class-room. Students would be ableto study the growing of vegeta-bles, native herbs and other relat-ed California vegetation.

The grant would allow thebuilding of eight raised beds forgrowing drought tolerant vege-tation. It would provide for lifelab teacher training and curricu-lum design for the fall of 2017and the spring of 2017.

Provision would be made forgarden maintenance – fertilizer,drip systems and shade coversfor both plants and students.Also covered in the grant wouldbe tools to help students deepentheir learning in the garden –workbooks, soil test kits andchild-sized tools.

The Clayton Garden Clubhas indicated it would providevolunteers to help the childrenlearn both the science and thewonder of the green world.

At the same time, anotherkind of green faded away. OnJune 13, local foursomes tooktheir last swings at the ClaytonClassic Golf Tournament. After30 years of tees and mulligans,mashies and niblicks, the tourna-ment passed into history.

The final tournament washeaded by Jim Diaz and hiscommittee. Diaz remarked thathe had played in every one ofthe 30, but confessed he wasnever on a winning team.

Honors for the final winningfoursome at the Clayton Classicwent to the team of MattReinthaler, Tim Argenti,Howard Geller and JackSogomonian.

Sadly, vandalism continuesto plague downtown Clayton,reported Geller. The gazeboin The Grove has been a par-ticular target. If you see some-one in the act of damagingproperty, please call 911, hesaid.

The CBCA says hello to gardens, goodbye to golf

GARY CARR

Special to the Pioneer

Club News

Advertise in the ClaytonPioneer: 925-672-0500

During summer, there aredays when temperatures inClayton exceed 100 degreesand afternoon outdoor activi-ties come to a halt. At the sametime along the Pacific coast toour west, the marine air can beup to 40 degrees cooler.

Those inland wait impa-tiently for sea breezes to devel-op and bring cooler air intoour backyards.

Our sea breeze is oftenreferred to as Mother Nature’sair conditioning system.Unlike the mechanical units inour homes and cars, this natu-ral air conditioning is made upof oceanic, geographic andatmospheric components.

The cool air along theNorthern California coast isdue to a phenomenon calledupwelling. During summer, alarge high pressure ridge devel-ops over the eastern Pacific.This produces steady north-west winds along the NorthernCalifornia coast. These windshelp transport surface watersoffshore, and upwelling deliv-ers a fresh supply of coolwaters to coastal areas.

Strong upwelling keeps seasurface temperatures in the 50-60 degree range. The layer ofair cooled by the ocean surfacewaters is known as the marinelayer. The depth of the marinelayer can range from a fewhundred feet when the highpressure ridge is strong to sev-eral thousand feet under weak-er jet stream conditions.

When the ridge is strong,summer temperatures in Cali-

fornia’s Central Valley oftenexceed 100. At the earth’s sur-face, this causes a pressure gra-dient to develop between thecool marine air and the lessdense inland air.

Central California’s coastalmountain ranges provide natu-ral barriers that keep most ofthe marine air influence nearthe immediate coastline. Anotable exception exists at SanFrancisco’s Golden Gate,where a sea level gap exists.

When marine air flowsthrough this gap during thesummer, the sea breeze keepsthe communities nearest thebay relatively cool. It takes a lit-tle extra effort on MotherNature’s part to force the seabreeze over the hills and intoClayton.

Subtle changes in the jetstream pattern dictate howdeep the marine layer is, which

in turn affects how far inlandthe sea breeze extends. A keyfactor for forecasting seabreeze strength is determiningwhether the upper level ridgeover our area is developing orweakening.

During the development ofa strong high pressure ridge,the marine layer compressesand may remain shallow (lessthan 1,000 feet) for severaldays. Marine air may affectplaces like Oakland or Berke-ley, but weak pressure gradi-ents and geographical barriersprevent any intrusion into cen-tral Contra Costa County.

After the upper ridge isfully developed over the WestCoast, small changes in thestrength or location of thehigh pressure ridge will deepenthe marine layer. This in turn

When it cools in Clayton,thank Mother Nature

The Law Office of

Daniel L. DuReeEstate Planning Attorney

Please call today for acomplimentary consultation

(925) 210-14001535 N. Main St., Walnut Creek

• Wills • Trusts • Healthcare Directives• Powers of Attorney • Probate

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

35 years Clayton/Concord residentLic#844344

WOODY WHITLATCH

WEATHER WORDS

See Weather, page 14

Page 8: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Page 8 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016

Sports Local preps earn all-league, end-of-year awards

The 2015-16 school year isnow in the rearview windowand fall high school sports areonly weeks away from begin-ning but awards continue tocome for local athletes.

The Diablo Valley and EastBay athletic leagues haveannounced their spring sportsall-league teams while Sport-Stars magazine recentlyunveiled its Bay Area 75,denoting the athletes whodefined the high school sportsyear with over a dozen athletesfrom area schools receivingmentions.

De La Salle capped itsincredible athletics year bysweeping the three major2015-16 North Coast Sectionsports championships. TheSpartans were NCS football,basketball and baseballchamps, in addition to takingSection titles in golf, track andfield, volleyball and wrestling.

Those accomplishmentswere reflected in 10 Spartanson the SportStars 75: BossTagaloa (No. 6), AntoineCuster (8), Devin Asiasi (10),Jordan Ratinho (13), KeanuAndrade (33), Nick Sparks(42), Donovin Guerrero (49),Damon Wiley (52), ConnerRoberts (56) and JonathanHarvey (64).

Clayton Valley Charter’s

run to the CIF football cham-pionship game was sparked bysenior Jake Peralta and the sen-ior safety was No. 60 on theSportStars list. Carondelet’soutstanding swimmer MaddieMurphy (40) and soccer goal-keeper Kaylie Collins of Clay-ton (69) were also tabbed onthe list.

Junior Isaiah Hodgins (58)led Berean Christian to theNCS Division V championshipfootball game to land a spot onthe list.

SPRInG SPoRTS LoCaLaLL-LEaGUE HIGH SCHooL

PLayERSSwimming & Diving

DVAL Boys First Team-MaxBottene, Cole Welsh, AndrewRodriguez, Alex Litvinov (North-gate), Nikolas Weigelt, Ryan Levy,Cal Brown, Anthony Vines (Clay-ton Valley Charter). Second Team- Chase Mitchell (CVC). Honor-able Mention-Jerron Miller,Anthony Vizental, Shawn Brous-sard, Cameron Brandt (CVC),Connor Seip (NG).

EBAL Boys De La Salle FirstTeam-Forrest White, JacksonGabler. Second Team-DanielO’Connell, Ryan Iannaccone,Jake Simpson. Honorable Men-tion- Driscoll.

DVAL Girls First Team-Danielle Arauzo, Rebecca Proctor,Carlie Polkington, Maddie Jochn-er, Piper Sterling, Bryn Mcgowan,Seraph Woodbury, Victoria Stahl,Delanie Gearing, Taylor Cossu,Emma Smethurst (NG), TaylorFair, Melissa Schoell (Berean

Christian). Second Team- EricaduLong, Julia Wickware, GabbyMancini, Kaylie Walker (CVC),Tatum Turetzky (NG), AlyssaHouse, Audrey Aitelli, KaraHoward (BC). Honorable Men-tion- Camille Cline, Brooke John-son, Melissa Cark, Alina Weigelt(CVC).

EBAL Girls Carondelet FirstTeam-Samantha Coloma, Made-lyn Murphy, Malorie Han. Honor-able Mention- Holly Williams.

Boys GolfDVAL First Team- Daniel

Schaefer (CVC); Jacob Ricafrente,Steve Harvey (NG), Woojin Gallo(BC). Second Team- Tyler Blazer,Larry Dombrowski (CVC), GrantSandburg (NG), Ben Smith (BC).Honorable Mention-MarcellusMedrano (CVC), Josh Quiamboa(NG), Grayson Pulver (BC).

EBAL Boys De La Salle FirstTeam-Josh McCarthy, EthanAtherstone.

Boys TennisDVAL First Team- Leonard

Markiwiecz, Andrew Miller,Amadeo Ashe-Ramirez, NoahZakaria (NG), Matt Osterkamp,Dylan Kies (CVC).

EBAL De La Salle First Team-Daniel Nomura. Honorable Men-tion- Nolan Bebarta, ChrisTrinkus.

Track & FieldDVAL Boys First Team – Bran-

don Abon, Jordan Velasquez,Aidan Jackman, 4x100 Relay,4x400 Relay, Jake King, JackFouts (CVC), Edwin Flores (NG).Second Team- Tommy Kauffman,Dylan White (CVC), Eli Skinner(BC), Ryan LaChance, PeterMichiels (NG). Honorable Men-tion – Sayed Opeyany, JasonRogers (CVC), Anthony Dulay,Michael Wheeler, 4x100 Relay,4x400 Relay, Jackson Smith (NG).

EBAL Boys De La Salle FirstTeam-Obasi Dees, Harrison Fish-er, Isaias De Leon, Jonathan Har-vey, 4x100 Relay.

DVAL Girls First Team- JadeDavis, Bridget Hyland, KierstenFouts, 4x100 Relay, 4x400 Relay(CVC), Jessica Dong, Amy Chris-tensen (NG), Kaylee Chaffey (BC).Second Team- Jessica Johnson(CVC), Eliza Cashman, MeganChappell, 4x100 Relay, 4x400Relay, Julia Hagedorn, MichelleHahn (NG). Honorable Mention -Kelly Osterkamp, Claire Olson,Katie Rangel (CVC), Becca Jones(BC).

EBAL Girls Carondelet FirstTeam- Katie Kern, Avery Avina,4x100 Relay, 4x400 Relay. Sec-ond Team- Julianna Ruotolo.Honorable Mention- HannaColoma.

Boys VolleyballDVAL MVP- Bailey Mundy

(BC). First Team-Matt Zamolo(BC), Liam Totten, Frank Stringer,Zach Hanson (CVC). SecondTeam-Joe Nelson, Chris Neely(CVC), Landon Nortune, Duncan

Morrison (BC). Honorable Men-tion- Christian Bulanadi, JustinLavezzoli (CVC), Kenji Kamiya,Evan Benson (BC).

EBAL De La Salle MVP- BaileyMilitar. First Team-Ryan Byrne,Darius Monsarrat-Ford. SecondTeam-Nick Adiao. HonorableMention-Matt Vollman.

BaseballDVAL MVP- Nicholas Sim-

mons (NG). First Team-BrianWright, Ian Villars, Ryne Mannie,Kevin Clancy (NG), Casey Schwit-ters (BC), Bill Ralston, James Biles,Jack Miller (CVC). Second Team –Daniel Glorioso, Will Batz, ChrisGotz (BC), Chris Rogan, AndersCapener (NG), Rob Towne, DougBermudez, Justin Roper (CVC).Honorable Mention –Dre Avizenis(BC), Andrew Abbott, MilanMijanovic, Kevin Snyder (CVC),Danny Bonano (NG), KendrickUtt, Scott Lewis (BC).

EBAL De La Salle MVPs-Con-ner Roberts, Conner Redmond.

First Team- Nick Sparks, JoeVranesh, Ryan Cole, Trace Tam-maro, Gabe Biosso. SecondTeam- Armani Smith. HonorableMention- Mason Behiel, CullenKafka.

SoftballDVAL First Team- Alyse But-

terfield (BC), Morgan Batesole,Hannah Brajkovich (NG), TyceMiranda, Tammy Mason, SophieWheeler, Athena Franklin (CVC).Second Team – Cami Cohen,Nikki Mason, Cheyenne Harman(CVC), Lucy Decker, Haley Ran-dall (NG), Taylar McCullough,Sadie Whatley (BC). HonorableMention – Kirsten Kennon, LaurenSimitz (NG), Maya Berry, McKen-na Martin (CVC), Molly Kolander,Madison Kincaid (BC).

EBAL Carondelet First Team-Sierra Blair, Giovy Webb. SecondTeam-Keleva Salt, Sofia Earle.Honorable Mention-EmmaMcLaughlin.

LacrosseDVAL Boys: First Team-Dako-

ta Harman, Ryan Alimagno(CVC). Second Team-Torin Neal,James Essex (CVC), Ian Morford,James Madden (NG). HonorableMention-Jack Morse, Cole Car-bone (CVC), Will Bitner, AndrewLentz (NG).

EBAL Boys De La Salle FirstTeam-Brook Rideau. SecondTeam-Ben Allen, Johnny Coletta.Honorable Mention-Sean Rigley,Michael Balousek, ConnorLencioni, Ross McDonald.

DVAL Girls: First Team-Cameron Adams (NG). SecondTeam-Josie McGregor (NG),Rylee Heinz (CVC). HonorableMention- Koryna Boudinot, Ash-ley Shepard (NG); Sydney Wheel-er, Marlinda Ramirez (CVC).

EBAL Girls Carondelet FirstTeam-Sophia Panella, OliviaPereira. Second Team-Mia Mal-oney, Katie Kuptz. HonorableMention-Lauren Zelnik.

Phillip walton photo courtesy SportStars magazine

CARONDELET GOALKEEPER KAYLIE COLLINS was instrumental inleading the Cougars within minutes of an undefeated sea-son and was named No. 69 on the SportStars Bay Area 75for the 2015-16 school year. The senior from Clayton al-lowed only 10 goals while making 112 saves this season asCarondelet rode its defense to the NCS championshipgame before losing to eBAl rival San ramon Valley in over-time. She was east Bay soccer player of the year and isheaded to the University of Southern California this fall.

Jason rogers photo

JAKE PERALTA DID A LITTLE BIT OF EVERYTHING in spearheading Clayton Valley Charter to itssecond straight CIF State Bowl Game. The senior was DVAl defensive player of the yearfrom his safety position but also played a key role on offense. In the state championshipgame last December he was the eagles emergency starting quarterback and rushed for123 yards and a touchdown. He is going to play football this fall for Sacramento State.

Each summer the recreationswim community focuses forone weekend on Clayton. The22nd annual Devil MountainPentathlon entertains over 1000swimmers on 15 teams this Sat-urday and Sunday in the DanaHills pool with both Claytonteams, Dana Hills Otters andOakhurst Country Club Orcas,taking part.

The Pentathlon is by far thebiggest meet in Clayton eachyear and whets the appetite forthe meets that will culminate theseason next month: landmark50th Concord SwimmingChampionships Aug. 5-7 and the56th Contra Costa CountyChampionships in LafayetteAug. 13-14.

Devil Mountain Pentathlonbrings together teams and swim-mers for a unique event that haseach boy and girl swimming five

events in one day. It’s not only aone-of-a-kind meet for theswimmers but also the Clayton

team’s major annual fundraiserto supplement family fees to paythe coaching staff, meet entry

fees and other expenses.The Pentathlon was the

brainchild of Dana Hills swimteam parents Mike and ToniBiel. At the first Pentathlon in1995 there were six teams. Threeof them—Springwood Sprint-ers, Pleasant Hill Aquatics Pen-guins and DHST— are involvedthis year along with 12 moreteams—Bishop Estates Barracu-das, Forest Hills Beavers, Livor-na Dolphins, LMYA Dolphins,Martinez Community Otters,Oakhurst, Pleasant Hill Dolfins,Sun Valley Rays, SycamoreStingrays, Vista Diablo Dol-phins, Walnut Country Stingraysand Ygnacio Wood Seahorses.

New meet director PatrickD’Arcy says that this weekend’sPentathlon features the youngerage groups (six and understhrough 9-10 girls) competingon Saturday and the olders (9-10boys through 15-18 boys and

JAY BEDECARRÉ

Clayton Pioneer

1000 swimmers descend on Clayton thisweekend for Devil Mountain Pentathlon

Jay Bedecarre photo

DANA HILLS SWIM TEAM is hosting the 23rd annual DevilMountain Pentathlon this weekend with 14 Contra Costaswim teams joining the otters for two days of non-stopraces with each of the over 1000 swimmers taking part infive events. Among the DHST swimmers this weekend are,from left, Toshio longley (13), Carter remington (11), BenGoldman (12), rebecca Adent (6) and Tyler Foley (8).

JAY BEDECARRÉ

Clayton Pioneer

See Pentathlon, page 9

w Kevin Schmidt, Clayton Resident

w Family Owned and Operated 925-822-5144738 Bloching Circle, Clayton

Kitchens BathroomsWindows MouldingsDecks Siding

Painting interior & exterior

license 962284

Like us on Facebook

Remodeling Specialist

Diablo View

Construction

Please let our advertisers know yousaw them in the Clayton Pioneer

Page 9: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

North Coast Section com-missioner Gil Lemmoninformed Clayton ValleyCharter High School officialsthe school completed its two-year NCS probation as of theend of the 2015-16 schoolyear.

The issue first arose in June2014 when the football teamheld practices for the fall sea-son before the 2013-14 NCS

season had finished, causingthe school to be placed on oneyear’s probation.

Later that year the eligibilityof six athletes who transferredto the school and joined thefootball team was challenged.Eventually three of the playerswere ruled ineligible includinghighly-touted lineman KahlilMcKenzie who transferredfrom De La Salle.

NCS then imposed an addi-tional year’s probation throughthe end of this most recent

school year.The school appointed new

co-athletic directors early in2015. In Lemmon’s letter end-ing the probation he said, inpart, “The school hired co-athletic directors to bettercomply with the challenges oftransfers and state mandatedenrollment policies outlinedfor charter schools. The ath-letic administration met withthe NCS Commissioner onmultiple occasions to revieweligibility rules and processes,

as well as other NCS policies.There have been countlessphones calls and emails to andfrom the NCS Office to dis-cuss eligibility situations.CVCHS co-athletic directorsTom Sparks and Eric Bam-berger have done an excellentjob.”

The commissioner furthernoted numerous meetings andworkshops attended by theschool’s staff and coachesconcerning transfer and eligi-bility policies. He added that

during the probation periodthere was one violation abouta freshman boys basketballplayer failing to file a transferwaiver. The team forfeited agame and was penalizedgames the following basket-ball season. Lemmon wrote,“No other violations occurredand great effort was made tofollow all eligibility processesconcerning waivers andreporting of pre-enrollmentcontact.

“The school has worked

very hard to adhere to all CIFand NCS policies. I thank Mr.[Executive Director Dave]Linzey and Mr. [Principal Jeff]Eben for their leadership.While compliance is a neverending process, based on theabove I believe Clayton ValleyCharter High School has metthe conditions of probationestablished by the Section andcommend the school on theirefforts to comply with all CIFand NCS rules and regula-tions.”

July 8, 2016 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Page 9

Sports

Connor White moved to Claytonfrom San Francisco with his family acouple years ago and the youngster,now seven, has demonstrated his “loveof sports” by playing in local soccer,basketball, baseball and swimming pro-grams. His Oakhurst Country Club

Orcas coaches love “his team spirit,positive attitude and hard work at prac-tice.” His mom Christyna says her old-est son, who enters second grade at Mt.Diablo Elementary this fall, gets hisswimming excitement by “being in thezone” and “beating my own [best]time” during Orca meets. He considersteammates and competitors who make

county times as “famous” and saysswimming against them is “thecoolest.” He keeps busy year-round byalso playing in All Out Sports Leaguebasketball, MDSA soccer and ClaytonValley Little League (on the farm divi-sion baseball Yankees this spring). Hisyounger brother Ethan is on the Orcassix and under squad, while seven-month-old sister Cora is a few yearsaway from joining the Oakhurst MightMini program. At home he loves towrite and draw comics.

The Clayton Pioneer congratu-lates Connor and thanks athleteSpotlight sponsors Dr. Laura Lacey & Dr. Christopher Ruzickawho have been serving the Claytonand Concord area for 25 years atfamily Vision Care optometry.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].

AthleteSpotlightConnor WhiteAge: 7

Team: Oakhurst Orcas

Sport: Swimming

Photos courtesy Clayton Valley little league

MINOR A DODGERS won the regular season and post-sea-son baseball tournament for the CVll championship andthen reached the AAA semi-finals of the District 4 Tour-nament of Champions. The team is, front row from left,Jack Dress, zachary Claunch, Nate luehs; middle row,Diego Navas, Jackson Huffman, ryder Bartholomew,ethan Alden, Aidan Hendricks, Benjamin Garner, Ben-jamin Hosler, luke Dress; back row, coach lou luehs,manager Andy Hosler and coach Tony Dress. Not pic-tured, Josh Sandy.

MINOR B BROOKLYN DODGERS finished 10-3 riding theteam’s defense and excellent hitting to the title. The successof the post-season playoffs was anchored by strong pitch-ing by Dominc Tanyag, evan lomax and Marc “MJ” lopez,who pitched 4 1/3 innings of no-hit ball in the champi-onship game. The team includes, front row from left,lomax, Kaleb Caldwell, Kieran Schmitt, Aidan Cooper,Tanyag, logan remington; middle row, Trento Schweiger,Kaiden ramirez, Blayne Ballard, lopez, Adam Sokolowski,Morgan Masterson; back row, coach Ben Ballard, coachJesse Schweiger, manager Marc lopez and coach ericSchmitt.

THE MINOR DIVISION SOFTBALL HURRICANES capped a 16-0record by beating the Blaze and Vipers in the CVll playoffs.The team was anchored by strong pitching and excellenthitting throughout the spring season all the way to the fi-nals of the District 4 Tournament of Champions before los-ing the AAA title game to Martinez. The Hurricanesincluded, bottom row from left, coach Aaron Baker, CassidyBaker, Sofia Carmichael; standing, manager Dave Scolini,Isabella Scolini, Anja Perreira, Madison Tuohey, lizbethrios, Sofia weber, Gianna orozco, Antionette wirth, Abi-gail McCormick, Camille Cherepy, coach DanielleCarmichael, liana Pursche and ruby Bartholomew.

EL DIABLOS WON THE CLAYTON VALLEY LITTLE LEAGUE MAJOR DIVISION PLAYOFFS with a 9-4 winover the Cubs in the championship game after earlier taking down the regular-seasonchampion Coyotes. Backed by strong defense Gabe lauricella didn’t give up a run in thefinal four innings of the finals en route to a complete-game victory. Drew warner, zakrath and Noah robinow combined for seven rBIs. The team includes, front row from left,James Canclini, ethan Cline, Cody DeMartini, lauricella, Jake Solis, Bobby lattin, CorbinClifton; back row, coach eric warner, robinow, Ben Juarez, rath, coach Ken Solis, JesseBurns, warner, coach Mike Clifton and manager Mike lauricella.

CV DUCKS ARE CVLL MAJOR DIVISION SOFTBALL CHAMPS after winning the double-eliminationseason-ending tournament. The mound duties were handled by Karlie Seastrand, SophiaMiller and Taylor Nunez. The CV Ducks are, front row from left, Grace Baker,Francesca Stolarz, Nicki Campton, Nunez, Alyssa Ferrari, manager Manny Nunez; backrow, coach Marty Miller, eliana Goldstein, Sarah Graff, Seastrand, emily Storn, Miller, Na-talie Pursche, Cassidy Gunter, coach ron Storn and coach Kerry Seastrand.

Clayton Valley Little League crowns 5 champions

Clayton Valley Charter finishes NCS probationJAY BEDECARRÉ

Clayton Pioneer

girls) on Sunday.Oakhurst Orcas have

entered three dozen swimmersin the Pentathlon while DanaHills will have more than 200competing.

The meet recognizes andrewards all of the kids who par-ticipate [everyone gets an “I sur-vived the Devil Mountain Pen-tathlon” ribbon] plus heat andstroke awards. The awards areno different for A and B flights.As the host team DHST doesn’tcount in the team standings.

Admission is free for anyonewishing to come out and viewthe meet, which begins at 8:30a.m. this Saturday and Sunday.The Dana Hills pool is located at298 Mountaire Cir. in Clayton.

2 BIG MEETS In aUGUSTDana Hills will be seeking its

24th Concord City Meet cham-pionship in the last 25 yearssince the Otters won their first ADivision title in 1992. The 50thcity meet includes 11 teams with

Pleasant Hill Dolfins and ForestHills Swim Team of Martinezjoining nine Concord and Clay-ton teams in the competition.Bishop Estates, Dana Hills, For-est Park Flyers, GehringerGators, Oakhurst, Walnut Coun-try, Springwood, Vista Diabloand Ygnacio Wood complete thefield.

DHST have been in the topfive at county the past four yearswhile 11-time county champsCrow Canyon Country Clubheads the list of contenders inLafayette again. The Otters fin-ished third in the 2015 teamstandings, one position higherthan their fourth place a year ear-lier. In 2012 and 2013 they werefifth. The Clayton team’s best-ever finish at county was secondin 1995 and 2011.

Forest Park won the CountyDivision II championship lastyear, which they also accom-plished in 2012 and three timesin the 1970s and 80s when it wascalled Community Division.

Pentathlon, from page 8

Page 10: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Editor’s note: This is TylerLehman’s last column for the Pio-neer. He has given our readers histakes on the Bay Area professionalsports scene during the past threeyears while he matriculated through

Diablo Valley College and SanFrancisco State University and isnow beginning his career covering theOakland Raiders for  SFBay.ca.Thanks Tyler and best wishes inyour future endeavors.

Heartbreaking, devastating,gut-wrenching; the list goes onand on for ways to describe theGolden State Warriors loss tothe Cleveland Cavaliers in theNBA Finals.

Going up 3-1 in the series,it seemed a repeat title was vir-tually assured for the Dubs.

Stephen Curry would cementhis legacy as one the greatestplayers of this generation and,on the coattails of his legacy,would be the greatness of theWarriors over the past two sea-sons.

The Cavaliers and LeBronJames had other plans and didthe improbable—practicallythe impossible—by being thefirst team to ever surmount a3-1 Finals deficit.

The Warriors looked lethar-gic, disoriented and anemic ingames five through seven. It’seasy to point the finger at “badcalls” and even the suspensionof Draymond Green for gamefive, but the Warriors had threechances to finish off the Cavsand they couldn’t get the jobdone. 

The only way for Curry andthe Warriors to get the rottentaste of a horrendous Finalscollapse out of their mouths isto look forward to redemptionin the upcoming season.

The Warriors are still a verydangerous team and have allthe reason in the world tobelieve they’ll be back in theFinals again next season.Curry, Green and KlayThompson, the core three ofthe team, will all be returning,along with key role playersAndrew Bogut and AndreIguodala.

Now the question for the

Warriors is how do they attackfree agency? Do they let Harri-son Barnes walk (to which Iwould answer with a resound-ing “YES”)?

More importantly, do theyhave enough to sign highly-coveted superstar KevinDurant, who would make theWarriors starting lineup one ofthe most lethal in NBA historyand also decimate a primeWestern Division rival, theOklahoma City Thunder. TheWarriors pride themselves onteam chemistry so couldDurant live with being the sec-ond, maybe even third, optionon the Dubs?

The Warriors Finals lossmight be the motivation need-ed to pull the trigger and signKD. The loss in the Finals iscertainly not what the way theWarriors wanted to end theirhistoric season, but it was still aseason to marvel at.

The Dubs won the mostgames during the regular sea-son in NBA history, with anastounding 73. They also wonthe most games to start a sea-son with 24 in a row. Curryshattered his previous recordof most 3’s made in a seasonwith an eye-popping 402.

The NBA is going to besalivating at the possible story-lines that will unfold next sea-son with LeBron coming off ahistoric Finals win and the

Warriors looking for redemp-tion.

Despite the devastatingFinals loss, the Warriors stillhad a season for the ages. The2016-17 NBA season can’tstart soon enough.

Page 10 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016

Sports

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].

For LeaseConcord – Commercial OfficesActive business complex featuring a variety of commercial businesses. Wellmaintained with friendly atmosphere. Ex-cellent location including ample parking.

Contact Maureen (925) 685-0324

Clayton FairProperties

• EXTERIOR: painting, windows, doors, decks, outdoor structures.

• INTERIOR: plumbing, drywall, electrical, trim, tile. Gary Romano

787-2500Reliable & Professional Service

Owner operated Over 35 years of experience

Everything from home repair & maintenance to construction

Specializing indeferred maintenance, preppinghome for sale, repairs from home inspections

Lic. 979406

Bruce& Zoey

Bruce & Holly LinsenmeyerClayton residents

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

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

http://ApplianceRepairsbyBruce.com

Over 35 years ExperienceWe repair all major appliances, most majorbrands, andwe’re local

Design • Installation • Maintenance Lice

nse # 95

8849

Commercial & Residential • 925-381-3757

theupsstorelocal.com/0190

The UPS StoreIndependently owned and operated

Clayton/Concord Location:Vineyard Shopping Center

5100 Clayton RoadConcord, CA 94523

ph: 925-689-6245

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

Store HoursM-F 8-6:30Sat 9-4:30

Looking for a better Mailbox?Secure 24-hour access, plus it’s a real street addressfor all your deliveries.

3 MONTHS FREE mailbox serviceswith a twelve-month agreement.

DIaBLo fC SoCCER CaMP foR PLayERS 5-14 RUnS JULy 18-21

All skill levels are welcome to participate in the Diablo FCsoccer camp July 18-21 at Tesoro Fields in Concord. Players willbe grouped by age and skill levels to learn key fundamentals tobeing a successful soccer player. The camp will teach dribbling,passing, trapping, shooting, defending and give the players plen-ty of opportunities to practice what they learn in small-sidedgames. Diablo FC professional staff will be the instructors. Toregister go to diablofc.org or email director of coaching ZachSullivan at [email protected].

REGISTRaTIon oPEn foR aLL oUT SPoRTS LEaGUESSUMMER, faLL PRoGRaMS

Summer and fall programs offered by All Out SportsLeagues in Clayton are taking registrations. The summer pro-grams include adult softball league plus youth leagues for volley-ball and tee ball. Fall and winter basketball league registration isopen as well. For complete information on All Out Sports pro-grams, visit alloutsportsleague.com.

noRTHGaTE GRaD SIGnS WITH CLEVELanD InDIanSWhen Ben Krauth was getting ready for eighth grade he grew

tired of spending most of the time on the bench in ContinentalLittle League juniors so he took a year off from baseball. Nineyears after taking a baseball hiatus he headed to Arizona to signa professional baseball contract and begin his career in theCleveland Indians organization. The Northgate High, DiabloValley College and Kansas University grad was selected in the14th round (of 40) of the MLB draft last month after a stellarsenior season for Kansas. He was a two-time all-Diablo ValleyAthletic League second-team selection. As a senior he posted a1.17 ERA. That year Herc Pardi was Clayton Valley head coachand vividly recalls his team’s battles with Northgate. “We beatNorthgate two of three times in 2012. We opened NCS at homeagainst Northgate. Ben went eight strong innings (4 Northgateerrors)... we beat ‘em 4-3 in the bottom of the eighth. Ben wasa crafty left hander, very durable.”

SKIP IPSEn MEMoRIaL BoCCE ToURnaMEnTIn CLayTon THIS WEEKEnD

The inaugural CBCA Skip Ipsen Memorial Bocce Tourna-ment is this weekend in Clayton. The 16-team modified Swissformat tournament is in honor of Ipsen, the founder of Skipoli-ni’s Pizza who passed away in March less than two years after hehelped dedicate the Ipsen Family Bocce Court in downtownClayton adjacent to his first Skipolini’s restaurant. Visitwww.claytonbocce.org for details on the tournament, which willaward cash prizes to the top three teams.

Dana HILLS SWIM TEaM’S MILE SWIM-a-THonCoMInG JULy 30

The Dana Hills Swim Team is holding its annual fundraiserto fund equipment purchases for the Clayton swim team andpool. Chairperson Steve Longley is projecting that this year’sevent on Saturday, July 30, will pay for new team pop-up tentsand flags around the pool. A number of prizes will be awardedto participants who swim from one lap to one mile (66 laps) thatday. Swimmers can encouraged to collect pledges for each lapthey swim. For complete details visit danahillsotters.com.

fooTBaLL offICIaLS aSSoCIaTIonSEEKInG nEW MEMBERS

If you’ve ever thought you might want to learn more aboutfootball from the real inside the Contra Costa Football OfficialsAssociation can teach you. CCFOA provides officials for localhigh school and youth games along the I-680 and Hwy. 4 corri-

dors. They are looking for new members for the upcoming fallseason. Training is provided with new member evening sessions.There is an all-day clinic Aug. 14 in preparation for the new sea-son. For more information visit ccfoa.com.

MDSa TaKInG WaITLIST REGISTRaTIonTHRoUGH JULy 31

Boys and girls 4-18 years of age wanting to play in Mt. DiabloSoccer Association fall league can register for the waitlistthrough the end of the month. Fall league practice begins Aug.1 when all registration closes. Families are requested to sign upfor volunteer duties to help the organization offer its AYSO pro-gram. For complete information visit mdsoccer.org.

CLayTon VaLLEy JR. EaGLES REaDIESfoR nEW fooTBaLL, CHEER SEaSon

CVAA Jr. Eagles are still taking last-minute registrations forits fall football and cheer squads. There is a mandatory parentand player day on Saturday, July 16, and fall practice begins Mon-day, Aug. 1. Visit their website cvaajreagles.com for more infor-mation and to register.

DE La SaLLE HIGH SUMMER CaMPS WRaPPInG UPDe La Salle High School is hosting water polo, soccer and

lacrosse camps this summer. The camps are open to boys andgirls in fourth through ninth grades. For complete informationcall (925) 288-8100 ext. 7090 or email [email protected] is open at dlshs.org (athletic tab).

WaLnUT CoUnTRy’S CRoSSInGS CHaLLEnGEIS WaRMUP foR 50TH CITy MEET

The 16th annual Crossings Challenge at Walnut Country inConcord on Saturday, July 23, will help local swim teams gear upfor the landmark 50th Concord City Swimming ChampionshipsAug. 5-7. The Crossings Challenge is the premier B swim meetin the area and is designed to recognize the effort and achieve-ments of swimmers who have not yet achieved A times. Six ofthe nine participating teams are from the Concord/Clayton area:Vista Diablo, Ygnacio Wood, Springwood, Dana Hills and hostWalnut Country. Over 750 swimmers will be taking part. Theycan compete in up to three individual events and one relay. 

noRTHGaTE, CaRonDELET CoaCHESEaRn STaTE aWaRDS

Northgate High’s swim team co-coaches Tommy Ortega andJeff Mellinger were feted last month at the annual CaliforniaCoaches Association awards night as the California State boysswimming coaches of the year. The duo led the Bronco boysteam to the inaugural CIF State championship in 2015 after win-ning both the DVAL and North Coast Section meets that spring.Carondelet’s John Harvey was named Northern California girlstrack and field coach of the year.

ConCoRD aySo TaKInG faLL REGISTRaTIonSConcord AYSO is accepting registration for fall soccer league

for boys and girls up to 18 years of age. Players can also registeron line at concordayso.org. For more information [email protected], call (925) 603-3861 or visit eayso.org forregion 305 to register.

ConCoRD RECREaTIon HoSTInG VaRIETy of SUMMERSPoRTS CaMPS

Concord Parks & Recreation Department is offering a widevariety of youth sports camps, clinics and classes this summerincluding Gymnastics + More, Kidz Love Soccer, Make Me APro camps in cheerleading, flag football and basketball, Pee WeeCheer, Skateboard Camp, many Skyhawk camps, Water PoloCamp and World Cup Soccer. Concord Rec has on-going sportsclasses like swim lessons, junior tennis, Taekwondo (Little Drag-ons) and more. For more information on any of these youthsports programs, visit concordreg.org.

Like to talk Bay Area sports?How about writing aboutthem for the Pioneer?The Pioneer newspapers are looking for someone

interested in writing a monthly column about Bay Areaprofessional and college sports.For the past three years our readers have enjoyed

our SportsTalk column with sports takes of TylerLehman. He started writing for us in 2013 about theRaiders, 49ers, Giants, A’s, Warriors and more whilehe was a student at Diablo Valley College. He trans-ferred to San Francisco State and continued his col-umn. He recently graduated and is starting his profes-sional journalism career.We’re looking for someone who would like to fol-

low in Tyler’s footsteps, giving us their take on localteams and national matters impacting pro and collegesports. We don’t offer any monetary remuneration forthe column but our sports editor Jay Bedecarre willgive editing and style guidance and the publishedcolumns will certainly add to a writer’s portfolio.Anyone interested in this assignment should send a

letter of interest and writing samples to [email protected]. If a prospective writer has any ques-tions they can address them to the same emailaddress.

Sports Shorts

Warriors’ future still bright after rough Finals loss

Page 11: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

July 8, 2016 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Page 11

(925) 686-2299

Claytonfurnitureinc.com

CLAYTON FURNITURE INC.

3400 Clayton Rd.Concord, CA 94519

A Family Businesssince 1988

SummerSales!

6096 Main Street, Clayton, 673-0440

July 8, 9 ........................................................BarrelhouseJuly 15, 16 .........................................Crossman CountryJuly 22, 23 ......................................................Tone PonyJuly 29, 30 ..........................................Southbound BandAugust 5, 6 ............................................Bollinger Station

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

2 for the price of 1 Beer only. Good anytime withoriginal coupon. Exp. 8/11/16

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

www.claytonclubsaloon.com

Introducing

Sunday Easy

ListeningLive music 4-7

pm

UTOPIC GARDENS

Beautifully Lawn-Less925-448-2214

CREATIVE DESIGN & INSTALLATIONwww.UtopicGardens.comLIC. No. 898331 Fully Insured Clayton Resident

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

est. 1973Insured, Bonded & Workers’ Comp

Air Conditioning, Appliance Repair, Carpentry, Con-crete, Electrical, Ceramic Tile, Heating, InsuranceWork, Painting, Plumbing, Remodeling, Wallpaper-

ing, and any Miscellaneous Items

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

925-825-0347B-1 Lic.#358217 C-44

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

l Remodelingl Windows/Doorsl Crown Moldingl Overhangsl Decks l Sidingl Trim

FREE estimatesSpecializing in Bathrooms and Kitchens

Tipperary Construction Inc.General Contractor, license# 783799, B, HIC

TipperaryConstruction.com

Declan Woods 925.216.2679Clayton Resident

Declan Woods 925.216.2679Clayton Resident

springboard competition. He’llbe competing against theworld’s best men in that eventAug. 15-16 in Rio.

Brushing aside the wide-spread fears about the Zika virus(“our team doctor has lots ofbug spray”) Ipsen is lookingahead confidently to competingin Rio at the outdoor MariaLenk Aquatics Centre where hedove in February in a World Cupmeet that served as the qualifierfor the US in several events.

“I’m used to diving outdoors(at Stanford). The weather ele-ments seemed to bother manyof the divers in Rio,” Ipsen saidlast week after a one-day visithome in Clayton as he traveledback to Palo Alto to continue histraining with his coach of oneyear, Oleg Andriyuk of the

Stanford Diving Club.He’ll be joining up with the

other nine American Olympicdivers for a final camp later thismonth before heading off toRio where Ipsen is going to“soak up the entire experience”including marching in the Open-ing Ceremonies.

The Olympic Trials were aroller coaster for Ipsen, whichmatched the last 10 months orso of his diving journey sincehe graduated last fall fromStanford.

HanD InJURy SCaREHe suffered from pain in his

right hand for several monthsduring a crowded 2015 divingschedule that included colle-giate, national and internationalcompetitions. Finally at the endof September it was discoveredhe had a fracture, spent fiveweeks in a cast and two moreweeks in a splint. This was all inthe lead up to the WinterNationals last December whenthe 2016 US National teamswere being determined.

He was finally able to divewithout any impediments fortwo weeks before Nationals andtook first in both individual andsynchro 3M springboard. Thatlanded him on the Nationalteam and early this year he com-peted in Rio, Beijing and Dubai.He won his first-ever seniorlevel individual internationalmedal with a bronze at theWorld Cup in Rio including

beating Olympic contendersChao He of China and EvgeniiKuznetsov of Russia.

Then just a couple monthsbefore the Trials USA Divingdecided to break up the synchroteam of Ipsen and Sam Dor-man, citing their less than opti-mal results in international meetsthis year. They put Dorman withMichael Hixon and reunitedIpsen and Dumais.

Unfortunately Dumais suf-fered an injury that halted anytraining with Ipsen. They finallygot to dive together just beforeTrials but had a couple misseddives in the preliminary andsemi-final rounds that put themtoo far behind the Dorman-Hixon team to overcome in thefinal six dives. There are onlyeight teams in synchro divingevents at the Olympics and acountry gets only one entry.

“Troy was feeling better asthe meet went along and Ithink if he had another two-three weeks of healing wewould have had a great chanceof winning the trials. In thefinals we had our best scoressince London,” Ipsen said.

Unlike most competitions,at the Olympic Trials thescores from preliminary andsemi-final dives are combinedwith the finals scores. Ipsenand Dumais won the finals ses-sion but they were too farbehind Dorman-Hixon to winover the three sessions.

ExPERIEnCE PayS offThe synchro event’s first two

sessions were on Saturday, June

25, and just two days later Ipsenwas back in the pool for theMonday individual springboardprelims and semi-finals. “Fouryears ago I would have beenpretty discouraged and nervous[after the synchro misses]. Thistime I was super motivated anddidn’t look at it as ‘do or die.’ Iwas mentally alert all week.”

He landed some excellentdives and moved into first placewith his final two semi-finaldives, putting him seven pointsahead of Hixon but with a sub-stantial 116-point lead overthird-place Matt Anderson.Four years ago Ipsen missed acouple dives late in the 3Mfinals and slipped to third place,missing out on an individualOlympic berth.

With two Olympic spots atstake Ipsen and Hixon were ableto glide through their final sixdives. Ipsen ended up 67.3points over the runner-up and152.6 points ahead of Andersonin third. Ipsen says he will beadding two more difficult divesto his list for Rio as he competesagainst the world’s best wheredegree of difficulty is veryimportant in the scoring.

The Clayton diver had a cou-ple dozen fans in the Indianapo-lis Trials audience including hisparents, sister, girlfriend (and fel-low Stanford diver) Lilly Hin-richs, family and friends.

The Olympics will be televisedon NBC and its related networks.Rio is four hours ahead of Pacifictime so some events will be early inthe morning here

rehab ranch on Marsh CreekRd., provided much of thebrawn for the heavy lifting,racking, spreading straw andsetting up more than 50

tables. “It’s impossible to men-

tion everyone that contributedto the event,” says Midden-dorf. “There were too many

and we all worked too hard.”And they aren’t finished,

says Middendorf . Moredonations will be countedfrom Relay for Life pledgesand she expects the total fromthe Clayton event to be wellover $100,000.

“For once,” says Gon-salves, “everyone in Clayton ison the same page.

The 2016 Relay for Life willbe Aug. 13 and 14 at Mt. DiabloElementary School. To join a teamor enter as an individual, go towww.Relayforlife.org/claytonca.

to teens. The kids find thesound unpleasant enough tomove away from the gazebo,resulting in a correspondingreduction in vandalism. Untilthe buzzer was installed, thecity was spending thousandson replacing the railings andslats in the gazebo that were

knocked out and broken byvandals.

The transmitters costabout $1,100 each and areinstalled at both the Groveand the Lydia Lane Park,where graffiti had been a con-stant headache for city main-tenance workers. The trans-

mitters send out a high-pitched sound at 17 kHz, and94 to 104 dB for a distance ofabout 50 feet, says Napper. Acar horn is about 110dB.

Not everyone is pleasedwith the buzzers. At the May 9City Council meeting, Claytonresident Cindy Gilmore saidthe buzzers, which were onfor 24 hours a day at that time,gave her a headache. The

teens are not so bothered, saysNapper. They either get usedto the sound or move away.

After the Art and WineFestival in April, the citychanged the operational hoursto 9 p.m.-6 a.m., when thepark is closed. Since thebuzzers were installed, vandal-ism is almost non-existent,says city maintenance supervi-sor Mark Janney.

Ipsen, from page 1

Relay, from page 1

Grove, from page 1

and articulate without the needfor hearing aids or a walker. Hetold me his wife recently passedaway at 101 years old. Wilburthought he had about 25 moregood years in him to enjoy theviews of Mt. Diablo, our parksand trails.

This chance meeting got methinking, “How many other cen-tenarians might live in Clayton?”I am spearheading an initiative toestablish a Clayton CentenarianClub and then honor Wilbur andeach of our Clayton centenari-ans with a proclamation at a CityCouncil meeting and with a daynamed in their honor. If youknow of a centenarian living inClayton, please email me theircontact information.

Relay For Life/ClaytonRound Up: For Clayton “oldtimers,” the Clayton Round-Upwas an annual event that endedabout 20 years ago. Clayton’sRelay for Life Team resurrectedthis event several weeks ago.There were 500 eager “cowboysand cowgirls” at the EasleyRanch, home to past Round-Ups. The Relay For Life teamhad one goal: to raise as muchmoney as possible for cancerresearch and the needs of thosefighting for their lives. And theydid. The generosity of teammembers alone raised more than$30,000. Sales of entry tickets,silent auctions and raffles raisedapproximately another $40,000.When all was said and done,

Clayton’s Relay for Life Teamraised more than $74,000. That’sa significant gift in the ongoingfight to corral cancer.

A huge “thank you” to all thededicated team members andbusinesses who donated fundsand/or services and to the Dia-blo Valley Ranch volunteers formaking this an event we will allremember. I am looking forwardto next year’s even bigger eventalready in the making.

Mt. Diablo ElementarySchool: Recently, we learned thatprincipal Irene Keenan of Mt.Diablo Elementary Schoolretired at the close of this schoolsession. We are grateful for hersupport of our “Do the RightThing” program and for herpartnership with the city onnumerous community issues.Irene will be missed at our local

school. However, she will nowhave more time to be involvedwith Clayton activities.

Clayton History: Did youknow that Clayton had twohotels? The Clayton Hotel waslocated in the building we knowas the Pioneer Inn, currentlyowned by the Clayton Commu-nity Church. The Rhine Hotelwas directly across the street.There was a cash store whereSkipolini’s is. Farmers could buyon credit until their crops camein. The U.S. Post Office andClayton Cafe were located wherethe Clayton Club now is. Thelocal blacksmith was where thebocce courts now exist.

Stay tuned for next month’shistory tidbits.

Direct comments to HowardGeller, mayor of Clayton, [email protected].

Mayor, from page 1

Kohler misses outon Rio GamesClayton will only have

one athlete at the Rio Sum-mer Games after rower KaraKohler was among the lastcuts for the U.S. Rowingwomen’s eight and quadboats.She was not among the

final selections for the quadlate last month at the Amer-ican training camp atPrinceton. She won a bronzemedal in that event fouryears ago in London.She returned home to

Clayton last week and isundecided about her futurein rowing.

Page 12: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

It’s time again for the annualChevron family Theatre fes-tival at Walnut Creek’s LesherCenter for the Arts.

The 10th annual festivaltakes place July 16, with lots offree outdoor events and low-priced indoor performances.The street in front of the LesherCenter hosts a day-long extrava-ganza of fun, arts and entertain-ment – complete with Disneyprincesses and other charactersmingling with the crowd.

Events include the magic ofAlex Ramon, Fantasy Forum’s“Wizard of Oz,” the PushcartPlayer’s “Peter and the Wolf,”Artrageous’ amazing team ofartists painting at electric speedaccompanied by vocals, creativechoreography and high energymusic and much more. For moreinformation, go to www.lesher-artscenter.org or call 925-943-SHOW.

Here’s a great opportunity toimprove your performance skillsand have a fun summer withPittsburg Community The-atre (PCT) Summer WorkshopPrograms. Now in its third year,the workshops have expandedto include Improv for Actors(July 11-Aug. 1) for ages 10-18and Musical Theater Dance forchildren 6-12, with a more com-prehensive workshop forteens/adults. Dance workshopstake place on Aug. 20, with chil-dren in the morning andteens/adults in the afternoon.

PCT will also bring back itspopular Audition Workshops,where performers learn what toexpect during an audition –including appropriate behav-ior/attire, song suggestions,short cold read session and basicdance moves. The workshop forages 6-12 takes place July 23,with the teen/adult workshopon July 30 and Aug. 6.

With your performing skillshoned, you could audition forone of PCT’s shows this seasonor at least enjoy them from theaudience. The schedule includes“Fiddler on the Roof ” (Septem-ber), “Mister Roberts” (Novem-ber), Home for the Holiday’s(Dec. 17), “Blithe Spirit”(March) and “Hairspray” (May).All performances take place atthe California Theatre in Pitts-burg. For complete informationon the workshops or the season,go to www.pittsburgcommuni-tytheatre.org/workshops.htmlor call 925-439-7529.

For some fun under the sun(or stars), try California Shake-speare Theatre’s “Fences.”August Wilson’s fierce dramaabout family, loyalty and forgive-ness features Aldo Billingslea as

the charismatic baseball playerturned sanitation worker andMargo Hall as his wife. Theshow runs through July 13 at thebeautiful Bruns Amphitheatre inOrinda.

Bring a picnic and enjoy thebeautiful grounds or purchasesomething yummy from thecafe, which includes a full bar.For more information, call 510-548-9666 or go to www.cal-shakes.org.

Walnut Creek's own BurtonThomas Weaver plays a role of alifetime -- no lie -- as Pinocchioin Woodminster amphithe-ater's production of “Shrek.”The busy actor recently playedHer Von Hustler in “Mary Pop-pins.” He will take a break fromlocal theater this fall when hetravels to Tuscany, Italy to studyat the Accademia dell’Arte pur-suing a Masters degree in Physi-cal Theatre.

You can catch him in“Shrek” from July 8 - 17 at thebeautiful WoodminsterAmphitheater in Oakland'sJoaquin Miller Park. Based onthe Oscar-winning DreamWorksAnimation film, “Shrek” fea-tures the popular ogre, his wise-

cracking donkey and a feistyprincess named Fiona. Ofcourse, there is also Pinocchio, acookie with an attitude, tap-dancing rats and a bunch of mis-fit fairy tale characters.

For tickets, call 510-531-9597or go towww.woodminster.com.

“Hamilton” star LeslieOdom, Jr. comes to the BayArea for his concert debut onJuly 23 at 8 p.m. at the LesherCenter for the Arts in WalnutCreek. Since his Broadway debutin “Rent” at the age of 17,Odom has been in many Broad-way musicals as well as featurefilms and television. He'll besinging songs from many ofthese shows as well as “Hamil-ton” when he appears in WalnutCreek. For tickets, call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherarts-center.org.slie Odom.

Page 12 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016

Five Starson Yelp

925.348.5609Nick Eisenbart

Owner/Service ProviderConcord resident

Serving all of Contra CostaCounty for 15 years IncludingMarsh Creek, Morgan Territory

Live Band, Classic Car Show, free hors d’oeuvres, $6 wine glasses, themed food kiosks, and Pro Shop Sale

672-9737 Register guests with [email protected] Peacock Creek Dr., Clayton www.oakhurstcc.com

August5

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. Sendcomments [email protected]

Theater festival hits thestreet in Walnut Creek

DISNEY PRINCESSES, little girls and the Chevron Family The-atre Festival bring fun for the whole family to walnut CreekJuly 16.

LESLIE ODOM, JR., star of“Hamilton” will perform atthe lesher Center, July 23.

BURTON THOMAS WEAVER plays Pinocchio in “Shrek” at thewoodminister Amphitheatre in oakland, July 8-17

RochellezRochellezPhotography

•Affordable •Fun•Professional •Quality

Rochelle DouglassOWNER/PHOTOGRAPHER

The world is your stage

PORTRAITS - PARTIES - EVENTSDigital Enhancements - Custom Creations

www.Rochellezphotography.webs.com

[email protected]

Why advertise inthe Pioneer?Since I started advertising in the Clayton andConcord Pioneers, my business has exploded.I can hardly keep up with the calls.

Kevin Schmidt, General ContractorDiablo View Construction

Write Your Own Life Storywith Memoir Coach Jill Morris

Leave your grandchildren a family history they will treasure.

Author and memoir coach Jill Morris leads 5-day memoir-writing workshops

this summer in Lafayette and Walnut Creek for those who want to put their life stories

down on paper.

Summer Classes Open for RegistrationJuly 25 - 29, 10 am - 1 pm, Lafayette Library

Aug. 22 - 26, 10 am - 2:30 pm, Walnut Creek Community Center

For further info, go to www.yourlifeyourwords.com

Please remember to recyclethis newspaper

Page 13: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

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

Prevent problems caused by viruses and spywarewith regular proactive maintenance.TOTAL DESKTOP CARE & SERVER WATCH Low cost, fixed feeservices that monitor & maintainyour networkto minimize IT problems

Call Mark 925.672.6029 or [email protected]

Doug Van WyckCLU ChFC, AgentInsurance Lic. # 05863966200 Center St. Ste. AClayton, CA 94517925-672-2300www.dougvanwyck.com

I’m here to help life go right™ —so you can enjoy it, while I helpprotect it. Let’s talk about yourlife insurance options CALL ME TODAY.

1601487

State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI)State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI)

Bloomington, IL

July 8, 2016 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Page 13

IN CLAYTON

Saturdays, thru Sept. 24, except Sept. 3Farmers’ Market8 a.m. – 12 p.m. New location: 6095 Main St., Clayton inKinderCare parking lot. pcfma.org.

July 9, 16, 23, 30Saturday Concerts in the Grove6 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, downtown Clayton. Free. cityofclay-ton.org. For a complete concert series list, see Page 3.

July 15Book SigningAuthor Ellis Byrd signs, “Legends and Lore of Clayton, Califor-nia.” Refreshments. 5 – 7 p.m. Clayton Museum, 6101 Main St.,Clayton. claytonhistory.org.

July 20, Aug. 3Wednesday Classic Car and Concerts in theGroveCar show, 6 – 8 p.m. Concert, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Grove Park, down-town Clayton. Free. cityofclayton.org. For a complete concert se-ries list, see Page 3.

Aug. 6Rib Cook-OffProfessional and amateur rib cooking contest. Family fun. 10a.m. – 6 p.m. Main Street, downtown Clayton. Free admission.claytoncbca.org.

IN CONCORDMondays Off the GridRotating lineup of food trucks. 5 – 9 p.m. 2151 Salvio Street.offthegridsf.com.

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

Tuesday Nights in JulyBlues SeriesSome of the best blues in the Bay Area. July 12, The FargoBrothers; July 19, Willie G; July 26, The Shari Puorto Band. 6:30– 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free. cityof-concord.org.

ThursdaysMusic and MarketThursday night live music and farmers’ market. Music: July 14,Hotel California; July 21, Dakila; July 28, Foreverland; Aug. 4,Zepparella; Aug. 11, Carlos Reyes. Market 4 – 8 p.m.; music6:30 – 8 p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. cityof-concord.org.

3rd SundaysAntique FaireAntiques, collectibles, handmade arts and crafts. 9 a.m. – 4p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Free admission.concordantiquefaire.com.

On Sale NowConcertsThe Concord Pavilion is located at 2000 Kirker Pass Road. livenation.com. Concert schedule for 2016:

July 12, Taste of Chaos, 6:30 p.m.July 28, Sublime, 6:35 p.m. July 30, New Edition, 7:30 p.m.Aug. 13, Slipknot, 6:30 p.m.Aug. 19, Disturbed, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 27, Outcry Tour, 6 p.m.Aug. 28, Snoop Dogg, 7 p.m.Sept. 4, Hot Summer Night Feat, 4 p.m.Sept. 10, Fifth Harmony, 7 p.m. Sept. 18, Daryl Hall and John Oates, 7 p.m.

Aug. 11Mayors’ Healthy CookoffMayors from Contra Costa County and chefs from their citiescompete to prepare the best healthy meal. 4 p.m. Todos SantosPlaza, downtown Concord. wellnesscitychallenge.org.

Aug. 13 - 14Japanese American Summer FestivalJapanese American Club’s annual event featuring Japanesefood, Kendo and Judo demonstrations, Taiko drum perform-ances, Japanese dance performance and flower arrangements.Sat. 1 – 9 p.m. Sun. 12 – 8:30 p.m. Japanese American Reli-gious and Cultural Center, 3165 Treat Blvd., Concord. Free ad-mission, parking at Ygnacio Valley HighSchool. www.diablojaclub.com.

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

July 15Night Hike AdventureExcursion looking for night time critters. 7 – 9:30 p.m. Meet atMitchell Canyon Visitor Center.

July 30Evening HikeDiscover how the natural landscape has changed since the Mor-gan Fire. 6 – 8 p.m. Meet at Perkins Canyon Trailhead. Reserva-tions required: [email protected].

Aug. 13Twilight HikeSearch for evening creatures. 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Meet at MitchellCanyon Visitor Center. Reservations required: [email protected] or [email protected].

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENTJuly 8Young Actors Studio ShowcasePresented by The Ballet School. 6:30 p.m. Lesher Center for theArts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $15. lesherartscenter.org.943-7469.

July 10“Curtain Up”Presented by The Golden Follies. 2 p.m. El Campanil Theatre,602 W. Second St., Antioch. $12-$25. elcampaniltheatre.com.

July 15 – 31“Oliver!”Pathos, drama and outstanding musical numbers. Allan E. JonesPerforming Arts Center, 850 Second St., Brentwood. $8-$25.thebrentwoodtheater.org.

July 16Chevron Family Theatre FestivalA day of affordable, high-quality, family entertainment. LesherCenter for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $5. lesher-artscenter.org. 943-7469.

July 17Port Chicago Naval Magazine National MemorialCommemorate the 72nd anniversary of the Port Chicago explo-sion and celebrate the centennial of the National Park Service.3:30 - 8 p.m. Future Visitor Center at Concord Naval WeaponsStation. Shuttle from Pittsburg/Bay Point BART only. Free. Reser-vation required: portchicago72.eventbrite.com. 228-8860, ext.6424.

July 19Summer “Pops” Concert 2016Presented by Walnut Creek Concert Band. 7:30 p.m. LesherCenter for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $17. lesher-artscenter.org. 943-7469.

July 22Piano DuoPerformed by Greg Anderson and Elizabeth Joy Roe. 7:30 p.m.Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek.$29. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

July 22“That’s Amore! A Tribute to Dean Martin”Presented by Chris Gardner. 7:30 p.m. Lesher Center for theArts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek. $35. lesherartscenter.org.943-7469.

July 23Leslie Odom, Jr.Odom’s Bay Area solo concert debut presented by Feinstein’s atthe Nikko. 8 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr.,Walnut Creek. $45-$85. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

July 24ConcertPerformed by Mazella Houston and The Big Band Era. 2 p.m.California Theatre, 351 Railroad Ave., Pittsburg. $18-$23. pitts-burgcaliforniatheatre.com. 427-1611.

July 24, Aug. 6RecitalBelly dance certification performances by Salimpour School.7:15 p.m. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., WalnutCreek. $16.50. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

July 30Geri Allen QuartetPresented by Diablo Regional Arts Association. 5 and 8 p.m.Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek.$40. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

July 30“I Can’t With You”Comedy with Mario Hodge. 8 p.m. California Theatre, 351 Rail-road Ave., Pittsburg. $20-$30. pittsburgcaliforniatheatre.com.427-1611.

Aug. 5 – 7 “The New Mikado”Chaos, desperation and comical mayhem presented by Lamp-lighters Musical Theatre. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 CivicDr., Walnut Creek. $50-$55. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

Aug. 6Warren Vache QuintetPresented by Diablo Regional Arts Association. 5 and 8 p.m.Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek.$40. lesherartscenter.org. 943-7469.

CHURCHES AND RELIGIONJuly 8, 15, 22, 29, Aug. 5Moonlight Movies July 8, “Pan;” July 15, “Inside Out;” July 22, “Aladdin;” July 29,“Cinderella;” Aug. 5, “War Room.” Bring a lawn chair, blankets,invite friends and neighbors and join us at sunset for a surroundsound spectacular evening. Activities begin at 7:30 p.m. Moviesstart at 8:45 p.m. Clayton Community Church, 6055 Main St.Free admission. claytoncc.com.

FUNDRAISERS2nd 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.

July 16Relay For Life ConcordAmerican Cancer Society fundraiser. Join a team or walk as anindividual. Activities for participants and spectators. 10 a.m. - 10p.m. Todos Santos Plaza, downtown Concord. Register at relay-forlife.org/concordca.

July 30Baking for a CureBake sale for Relay For Life Clayton. 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Starbucks,Clayton Station. relayforlife.org/claytonca.

Aug. 13 – 14Relay For Life ClaytonAmerican Cancer Society fundraiser. Join a team or walk as anindividual. Activities for participants and spectators. 10 a.m. Sat-urday to 10 a.m. Sunday. Mt. Diablo Elementary School, 5880Mt. Zion Drive, Clayton. Register at relayforlife.org/claytonca.

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.

Thru July: Veterans’ Self-Portrait DisplayJuly 11, 25, Aug. 8: Clayton Knits, 1:30 p.m.July 11, Aug. 8: Clayton Library Book Club, 7 p.m.July 13: Watercolor Paint Along, 6:30 p.m.July 14: SAT Practice Test, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.July 20: Portrait Demo in Charcoal Pencil, 6:30 p.m. July 30: Hawks, Honkers and Hoots, 2 p.m.Aug. 3: Photography Thru the Painter’s Lens, 6:30 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.

July 8, 12, 14, 15: Lunch at the Library, 1 p.m.JULY 9: AARP FREE TAX ASSISTANCE, 10 a.m.July 14: Introduction to 3D Printing, 6:30 p.m.July 19: Arts and Crafts, 4 p.m.July 21: Concord Library Book Club, 6:30 p.m. July 22 - 24: Book Sale, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday 1–3 p.m.July 28: Adult Coloring and Storytime, 6 p.m.

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.

Clayton Community CalendarPLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M. AUG. 3 FOR THE AUG. 12 ISSUE. ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL TO [email protected]

Meeting dates and times for local clubsand organizations are listed at claytonpioneer.com. Click on ‘Links’

Page 14: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

When the heat turns up,the dangers to our petsincrease too. To keep your dog,cat and other furry friends safe,make sure you are prepared.

Dehydration and heatstroke are very real threats dur-ing the hot days of summer.Short-nosed dogs like pugs andbulldogs, darker colored petsor those who are overweightare especially prone to heatstress.

Animals should always havefresh, clean water available –whether it’s summer or thedead of winter. Carry portablewater bowls on walks or longcar rides. Fans, ice packs, kiddiepools and sprinklers are funways to keep your dog cool.

Unattended cars are dan-gerous for pets in warm weath-er. It’s not okay to leave yourpet in the car on a hot day evenfor a few minutes. Inside tem-peratures can rise quickly, put-ting your pet in danger. Play itsafe and leave your pet at homeif you can’t bring them insidewhere you are going.

More time spent outdoorsmeans more potential encoun-ters with snakes. Many areharmless but not all. Protectyour pets and your family bykeeping your yard tidy. Snakeslove to hide, and tall grass and

piles of junk are perfect spots.If your cat is allowed to gooutside, do a quick surveillanceof your yard beforehand tomake sure the coast is clear.

A cat or small dog could bea meal for some snakes. If asnake bites your pet, seekemergency veterinary careimmediately.

Sidewalks are also a dangerto pets in the summer. Thingslike black pavement andasphalt can get very hot andharm your pet’s paws. If it’stoo hot for your bare feet, it’stoo hot for your pet. Schedule

your walks for cooler times ofthe day.

Barbecues and family cook-outs are fun but can be riskyfor pets. Everyone loves acookout, especially pets wholike to feast on table scraps.But all that tasty food can bebad for pets – and not justtheir waistlines. Many foodssuch as grapes, onions, raisinsand chocolate are toxic to petsand can cause great harm.Avoid feeding your pet any-thing with bones as they cansplinter and damage the GIsystem. Boneless chicken,

hamburgers and hot dogs areOK in small quantities.

Remind any guests, espe-cially children, not to feed yourpet from the table. You want toenjoy the party too, not spendit looking after a pet with anupset stomach.

With a little preparationand a watchful eye, you andyour pet can have an enjoyablesummer.

Page 14 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016

Pets

BUILD YOUR FUTURE WITH USColleen GeraghtyFinancial Professional AssociateSan Francisco Bay Area Financial GroupThe Prudential Insurance Co. of AmericaCA Insurance license Number 0I89925

2010 Crow Canyon Place, #204San Ramon, CA 94583Office 925-302-4033Cell Phone 925-305-0321

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

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

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

Proud Concord resident since 1968

4-year-old Ellie is a profes-sional personal assistant-always at your side for whatev-er you may need. When notseeing to your every need sheloves to lean in for scratches,chase balls, or go on adventurehikes. If you are looking for apartner in crime please look nofurther than this sweet girl.Ellie has a positive history withother dogs. We recommendEllie take a Basic Manners classwhere she can learn polite waysof seeking creature comfortsin life. She currently weighs 34pounds. 

The adoption fee for dogsis $250 and includes a discounton the first six-week session ofa manners class.

3-year-old Harley is ahandsome fellow who can be atad shy at first. Once he settlesin, you will find him to be

affectionate and easygoing. Heis suitable for a first time catguardian. 

The adoption fee for cats is$75.

Meet your forever friend atTony La Russa’s Animal Res-cue Foundation, 2890 MitchellDrive, Walnut Creek, duringadoption hours: Noon to 6 pmWednesday & Thursday, Noon

to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6pm Saturday & Sunday.

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.

Ellie and Harley are thismonth’s ARF stars

ELLIE HARLEY

Debbie DeMello is a dog trainerand owner of Who’s TrainingWho in Walnut Creek. Contacther at [email protected]

Be prepared: summer monthscan be dangerous for pets

will increase the onshore pres-sure gradient and draw coolerair into inland valleys.

It may take a day or two,but the modified marine airwill allow temperatures in Clay-ton to taper off. If the seabreeze is particularly strong,

afternoon temperatures cancool by 20 degrees or more ina day.

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

Weather, from page 7

Police Activity for two weeks ending June 30, 2016

Clayton Police Activity Report

ACCIDENTS:

June 21, Marsh CreekRd./Main St. June 23, Kenston Dr./TiffinDr. June 24, Keller Ridge Dr. June 29, Clayton Rd./TaraDr.June 29, Clayton Rd./Wash-ington Blvd.

ARRESTS:

June 17, 5700 Verna Way.Warrant. 40-year-old SanJose male.

June 17, 1700 Kirker PassRd. Warrant. 40-year-oldConcord male.

June 18, 5400 Clayton Rd.Possess Controlled Substance.23-year-old Walnut Creekmale.

June 18, Oak St./Center.Public Intoxication - ProtectiveCustody. 30-year-old Claytonmale.

June 19, 5400 Clayton Rd.Shoplifting – Value Under$950; Probation Violation.45-year-old Concord male.

June 24, Clayton Rd./MarshCreek Rd. DUI; Probation Vi-olation; Driving Under the In-fluence While on Probationfor DUI. 24-year-old Brent-wood male.

June 28, 5400 Clayton Rd.Possess Controlled Substance;Warrant. 48-year-old tran-sient male.

BURGLARIES/THEFTS:

June 25, 5400 Clayton Rd.Burglary – Commercial.June 26, 5800 Caulfield Dr.Petty Theft.

VANDALISMS:

June 17, 7400 Marsh CreekRd. June 22, 5400 Clayton Rd. June 25, 7400 Marsh CreekRd.

DeBBIe DeMello

PAUSE FOR PETS

Page 15: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

In Pixar’s latest sequel,“Finding Dory”, the titularcharacter is a fish with a shortterm “remembery” problem.As a child, she continually for-got the safety rules implement-ed by her parents. Althoughpatient with their teachings,Charlie and Jenny’s rhymes,songs and jingles just do notwork.

Played as an adult by a glee-fully exuberant EllenDeGeneres, Dory cannotremember much of her child-hood. It is from these frag-ments of memory that we getour movie title. The new filmsticks to the same formula asits predecessor “FindingNemo”. However, the addition

of lively new characters and abeautifully rendered locationgive “Finding Dory” its charm.

By finding her parents,Dory hopes to put the missingpieces of her life back togeth-er. As a child, she lost all self-confidence because of her fre-quent bouts with absent-mind-edness. In some ways, the bestparts of the film are the flash-backs to Dory’s youth. Terrifi-cally voiced by 7-year oldSloane Murray, young Dory isheartbreaking with her giant,sad eyes and poignant voice. Acrotchety octopus voiced byEd O’Neill provides excellentcomic relief.

Director Andrew Stantonbrings back Marlin (voiced by

Albert Brooks) and his sonNemo (now voiced by HaydenRolence). When the film starts,it is clear they have been livingwith Dory and grow weary ofher constant forgetfulness.Nemo convinces Marlin thatDory is part of their familyand they go after her. Theycome across a few old friendsand Marlin is reminded morethan once about the impor-tance of family.

For Dory, the only thing sheremembers is that she had afamily once and they must haveloved her. For anyone who hasever felt the loss of a familymember or perhaps never evenknown their parents, Dory’splight is tremendously affecting.

Seen from the view ofDory’s parents, the film mightbe even more heartrending. Inone scene, they both breakdown because they feel theycannot help Dory when itcomes to her forgetfulness. Par-ents of children with disabilitiescan relate only too well. But theyshould take heart as it is filmslike “Finding Dory” that shed anondiscriminatory light on thesubject.

Pixar knows how to delivermessages that come across toaudiences of all ages. On thecar ride home from the theater,thousands of parents werelikely asked questions relatedto family, loss, and memorydebilities. Cinema transcendsbeing an art form when filmslike “Finding Dory” generatethese kinds of discussions.The latest Pixar offering is noton a level of “Inside Out”, butit does stand on its own asanother beautiful film in theirrepertoire. a-

Marilynne Robinson’sgroundbreaking debut novel,“Housekeeping,” earned manyaccolades when it was releasedin 1980, including thePEN/Hemingway Award.

A deceptively simple yetlyrical novel, “Housekeeping”is the tale of sisters Ruth andLucille. It’s set in the town ofFingerbone, perched on theshores of a ravenous lakelocated vaguely east ofSpokane. Abandonment –whether accidental or inten-

tional – is a central theme of“Housekeeping.”

One day, Ruth and Lucilleare deposited with a box ofgraham crackers on the porchof their grandmother’s homein Fingerbone, not longbefore their mother drives aborrowed car off a cliff in aspectacular dive into the lake.Years before, Ruth andLucille’s grandfather had per-ished in the same frigid waterswhen the train on which hewas traveling somehow cameloose of a trestle and nosed itsway in a long, slow arc into thewater, passengers, freight andall.

The grandmother raisesthe girls well enough. Butwhen she passes, the sistersare once again untetheredfrom all familial connection.Soon after the funeral, two

maiden great-aunts arrive tocare for the girls. Misses Lilyand Nona Foster live in gen-teel poverty and are unaccus-tomed to children, to theirnoise, their extravagant needs.The aunts devise a plan tolocate another relative, the sis-ter of the girl’s dead mother,the girls’ Aunt Sylvie.

However, Sylvie Fisher is ahobo, and being transient, sheis difficult to find. The ancientones do not give up hope andconspire for her arrival.

“Sylvie would be happyhere. She knew the town – thedangerous places, the unsa-vory people – and could watchus and warn us, as (we) couldnot.”

To the joy of the elderaunts, Sylvie arrives one frigidwinter day wearing an unsea-sonably thin dress, a man’sovercoat and loafers. Lily andNona beat a fast retreat, andRuth and Lucille are left in thecare of a vagabond who hasn’tthe first clue about the care ofchildren or the mechanics ofhousekeeping.

“Who would think ofdusting or sweeping the cob-webs down in a room used for

the storage of cans and news-papers – things utterly withoutvalue? Sylvie kept them, Ithink because she consideredaccumulation to be theessence of housekeeping andbecause she considered thehoarding of worthless thingsto be proof of a particularlyscrupulous thrift.”

Being the more practical ofthe two, Lucille soon arrangesfoster care for herself withher school’s home-ec teacher.Once again, Ruth is aban-doned.

“Housekeeping” is a storyof loss and connection.Robinson explores the myriadmanifestations of love andtribe in a way so as to enchantthe reader from the first wordto the last.

“There is so little toremember of anyone – ananecdote, a conversation attable. But every memory isturned over and over again,every word, however chance,written in the heart in thehope that memory will fulfillitself, and become flesh, andthat the wanderers will find away home, and the perished,whose lack we always feel, willstep through the door finallyand stroke our hair withdreaming, habitual fondness,not having meant to keep uswaiting long.”

July 8, 2016 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Page 15

Kimberly MorucciRealtor® CalBRE #01356365

Cell: [email protected]

1650 Curry Canyon Road, Clayton — Beautifully UpdatedHome with Granite Kitchen, updated Bathrooms and LaminateFlooring Throughout. Enjoy the Oak Studded View from theKitchen Garden Window. Peaceful and Serene, This PropertyOffers the Opportunity to Partner Through a Conservation Easement Program to Provide Per-manent Open Space and Land Preservation along with Private Home Ownership! Situated on 5Acres with a 1 Acre Building Envelope which allows for up to 2 Horses, A Barn, or Shop, orGarage...lots of options! Beautiful Country Setting • Updated Spacious Home Horse Property • Close to Town

Offered at $500,000

12271 Marsh Creek Road, Clayton — Build Your DreamRanch on This Amazing Property! County Living Yet Close toTown, This Parcel Offers Views of Mt. Diablo and It’s FootHills, City Water Access Available! Opportunity to be a PartnerThrough a Conservation Easement Program to Provide Perma-nent Open Space and Land Preservation along with PrivateHome Ownership! Situated on 17 Acres, Buyer has the Choice between 2 Building Sites, alongwith nearly 7 Acres of Usable Pasture! Don’t Miss This Incredible Opportunity!Amazing Views! • Country Living! • Great Opportunity to Build Your Dream Ranch!

Offered at $225,000

Country Living at it’s Best!

Spectacular Views Of Mt. Diablo!

•Lawn & Plant Installation •Paver Patio & Walkway

•Retaining Walls •Drainage •Low Voltage Lighting

925-672-9955www.nicholslandscape.com

Lic. 542812 Fully Insured

Boyce Nichols - OwnerClayton Resident

FREE ESTIMATES

There’s more to ‘Housekeeping’ than meets the eye

‘Finding Dory’ delivers sweetand courageous message

Cynthia Gregory is a NorthBay nonprofit leader, writer of shortfiction and author of a blog. Emailcomments and questions to Editor@Clayton Pioneer.com

Jeff Mellinger is a screen writerand film buff. He holds a BA inFilm Studies and an MFA in filmproduction. He lives in Concord.Email comments to [email protected].

“FINDING DORY” REUNITES THE FRIENDLY-BUT-FORGETFUL bluetang fish Dory, with her friends Nemo and Marlin on asearch for answers about her past.

JeFF MellINGer

SCREEN SHOTS

CyNTHIA GreGory

FOR THE BOOKS

Page 16: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Now that I am dressingmen as well as women, I decid-ed it’s time to look ahead tofall.

Street style frommenswear’s fall/winter 2016collections features rich, warmcolors and materials. Here are afew trends that will keep youlooking your best during thecooler months:

Emerald green. This hasstood out as a top color choicein the street style scene acrossthe globe. With its depth andversatility when paired withother traditional hues, emeraldgreen is the ultimate staple forfall/winter wardrobes. Thecolor works well for statementjackets and accessories but hasalso enjoyed a revived popular-ity in suits. Adopt the trend infitted suit styles and don’t feara brighter take on the color toboost the modern appeal ofyour look. Emerald greenscarves also work effectively tolend a jolt of color to simplisticcasualwear, amplifying yourlook.

Cardigans. A quality cardi-gan is something you’ll mostcertainly need for the coldermonths. Wear a cardigan with atypical T-shirt and jeans com-bination to add a novel touch.If you’re out for dinner or amovie, it will ground your look

and add character. Cardiganslayered over turtlenecks andother cable knit styles are per-fect for winter dressing.

Statement jackets. Boldgraphics and statement sloganshave emerged as a consistentfeature in jackets, emboldenedwith vivid colors and textures.Statement jackets don’t standout for their color alone; thesejackets are adorned with literalstatements and bold graphics.It’s a playful take on sartorialpropaganda. The trick topulling off this trend is tocommit to the look, so don’t beafraid to pair bolder jacketswith classic staples for an inter-esting casual look.

novelty sweaters. Wheth -er in a cartoon motif or a

kitschy retro advertisement,novelty sweaters have beenplayfully featured on the streets– lending personality to thesimplest of looks. The key tochoosing novelty sweaters is toadapt them to your personalstyle. Wear them in a classicway by selecting versatile andtraditional colors. All shades ofgray ground the look, makingyour outfits subdued asopposed to overtly wacky.

’50s shirts. Oversizedpolos and textured ’50s shirtswere a big hit during FashionWeek in New York. Balanceout this trend with tailoredpants for a true ’50s vibe. Thissilhouette works perfectly indarker tones as well as powderhues, but contrast is key when

combining colors to obtain apolished look.

Bomber jackets. Use the’50s bomber jackets from thespring/summer 2016 collec-tions as a style reference andtry one in a darker hue.Bomber jackets are versatilefor casual days; they look cooland keep you comfortable. Tokeep things contemporary,channel this trend with thevariety of new colors andmaterials available.

Susan Sappington is the areadevelopment manager for Etceteradesigner clothes from New York anda stylist for J.Hilburn customizedmenswear. Contact her [email protected].

Page 16 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016

Grand Opening

Professional Installation of Tile, Stone and Glass Mosaics

Certified Fabrication of all Quartz material

Complete Remodeling Service

Showroom Hours:T/TH/F 11-6; M/W 12:30-6; Sat 11-3. Or by appointmentClosed Sunday

925.672.9000; Showroom925.822.7037; Installation

www.italiantileandstone.comClayton Valley Shopping Center • 5420 Ygnacio Valley Rd Suite #40, Concord

next to OSH and FrameWorks • Locally Owned by Clayton Residents

10% Off$500+

FREE ESTIMATES

925-250-0334

OwnersDustin & Kim WaranerContractors Lic #879423Arborist Lic WE-7372A

www.waranertreeexperts.com

• Remodels, Kitchens & Baths• 25 years of design experience – model homes, commercial & residential• Clayton resident for 18 years

• Design consultations• Hunter Douglas Priority Dealer• Major furniture brands at a discount• Licensed general contractor

925-672-7920 6160 Center St, Clayton [email protected]

www.interiorspanache.com

Call or email for a

nappointme

nt today

Follow us on Facebook

Time for an update? Call Interiors Panache!

Full-Service Design Firm

Men can opt for street style this fall

WHETHER YOU WANT TO TACKLE THE URBAN AESTHETIC LOOK or go all out on a tonal green num-ber the choice is yours. liven up your look and give one or two of these trends a whirl.

SUSAN SAPPINGToN

CLOTHES UP

Q. I have a rental proper-ty.  as hard as this is tobelieve in this rental market,it is sometimes difficult tokeep it rented. are there anypitfalls in having a   vacantproperty?

a. You are right.  There is ahuge market for rentals.  Areyou sure you have yours pricedcorrectly?  Does it show cleanand well maintained? 

The California insurancecommissioner is encouragingCalifornia homeowners toreview their policies and con-sider their options regardingvacancy protection.  Accordingto the commissioner vacant or

unoccupied homes can leavethe homeowner exposed toloss and liability that may notbe covered by your insurance.

Homeowners’ policies areintended to insure occupiedhomes.  Generally home insur-ance policies include exclusionsfor neglect or property aban-donment on a home left vacantor unoccupied for a specifiednumber of days. Vacant homespose a higher risk for damagethan occupied homes, so insur-ance companies insure theseproperties differently and usual-ly at a higher price.

Q.  My family and I arehaving a home built in oneof the new subdivisions inBrentwood.  There are manyoptions to choose from.What are some of the latesttrends for new homes.

a. Nearly 300 architects weresurveyed about the latest design

preferences.  Here are somehighlights from the survey.

WHaT’S In:1. Home offices;  More people

are working out of theirhomes or telecommuting,prompting more homeown-ers to want a dedicatedworkspace in their homes.

2. Mud rooms; My favoritetype of space. The need foradditional closets and otherstorage space, as well as theincreasing informality ofspace in the home, is drivingmore homeowners to wantthem.

3. Outdoor living areas; Thedays of the McMansions areover.  Although families stillwant enough space to do allthey need to do, people aremuch more practical today.Using outdoor spaces addsto the living area of thehome.  There has been a

trend for creating a morefunctional space outdoorswith furniture, outdoorkitchens, fireplaces orportable fire pits, etc.

4. Energy-saving features; Ihope your builder is offeringsolar for your electricity. It ispretty nice not to receive anelectric bill.  Other thingssuch as double and tripleglazed windows, tanklesswater heaters and low main-tenance materials are pre-ferred. 

WHaT’S oUT:1. Exercise rooms2. Media rooms/home theatres3. Hobby/game rooms4. Kid’s wings/guest wings

Vacant rental gives cause toreview insurance coverage

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.

lyNNe FreNCH

REAL ANSWERS

On a warm Saturday morn-ing at the Clayton farmers mar-ket, John Knutson and hisgranddaughter Nikki set uptheir booth for the day ahead.He lays out samples of each ofhis cheeses, ready for cus-tomers to taste.

New to the farmers market,Valley Oak Dairy offers a pop-ular pepper jack, a sharp ched-dar, a creamy mozzarella andseveral other varieties.

“We’re just getting startedin farmers markets and hopecustomers enjoy our cheeses,”Knutson said. “They’re madefrom cows fed only on freshgrasses and non-GMO feed.We love to share our story withcustomers and talk to themabout our cheeses.”

Valley Oak Dairy is familyowned and operated by theKnutson family in the CentralValley through four genera-tions. Knutson enjoys sharing

his passion for farming, hiscattle and the products thedairy produces. Stop by theClayton farmers market and“talk cheese” with him.

Here are a few ways to usesome of his wonderfulcheeses:• Stuff jalapeno peppers with

pepper jack cheese.• Shred cheddar for topping

tacos, salads or soups.

• Slice mozzarella for a sim-ple Caprese salad withtomatoes, basil and vinai-grette.

• Make the best grilledcheese sandwich with Val-ley Oak’s sharp cheddar.

• Add grated asiago cheese toyour next pasta dish.

The Clayton Farmers Market isevery Saturday 8 a.m. to 12 noon.Visit pcfma.org for more info.

Valley Oak Dairy brings qualitycheese to Clayton farmers market

VALLEY OAK DAIRY has been owned and operated by theKnutson Family for four generations. Patriarch, John Knut-son, center, and granddaughter Nikki, second from left, willbe in their booth Saturday. Stop and say hello.

DEBRAMORRIS

Pacific Coast Farmers Market

Page 17: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

July 8, 2016 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com Page 17

Clayton residents since 1959

6160 Center St. Suite #C, Clayton

925-693-0757 (Main) l 925-693-0752 (Fax)

mazzeirealty.net

Paula & Rod JohnstoneBroker AssociateDRE# 00797857

Paula 925-381-8810Rod [email protected]

Rula MasannatSales AgentDRE# 01923757

[email protected]

• 2678 Mayfair Ave., Concord $425,000

Matt Mazzei, Jr.,Broker/OwnerBRE# 01881269

[email protected]

3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1192 sq.ft.

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

• 627 Carpino Ave., Pittsburg $345,000Duplex. Great rental property.

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

COMING SOON

ACTIVE LISTING

PENDING

• 1662 Saint Laurence Way, Pleasant Hill Call for Info4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1211 sq. ft.

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

• 229 El Pueblo Pl., Clayton Call for Info4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2643 sq. ft.

Listing agent: Matt Mazzei

Summer is here! There is no better time to sell yourhome. Call us for a free home evaluation today.

Red fountain grass sparkles in any landscape

It is hard to not love thefeathery plumes of red foun-tain grass. This ornamentalgrass has become a ClaytonValley landscape staple.

Its thin, strap-like purplish-red foliage and warm taupefuzzy cattails are a reliablesummer accent plant for manylandscape situations.

Introduced to the gardeningmasses over a decade ago, red

fountain grass surged in popu-larity and has never lost its lus-ter in the eyes of plant lovers.Folks are intrigued by its move-ment and the texture it providesto the landscape. Because redfountain grass does well inwindy environments, it is per-fect for Clayton Valley residentswho live on hillsides.

You’ll find red fountaingrass in nurseries and gardencenters under the name Pen-nisetum Rubrum. This orna-mental grass loves to be plantedin full sun, where it can reachtoward the sky. PennisetumRubrum can grow quite large.Expect about 4 feet of heightand 3 feet of width at maturity.

This ornamental grass is

winter deciduous, meaning itbrowns-out when the weatherchills and regrows from theroots as spring warms. Consid-er the deciduous winter behav-ior when placing. Try to holdoff from pruning last season’sfoliage until you see signs ofnew growth, usually mid-March.

Red fountain grass requireslight to regular watering andprefers well-drained soil. It willdo much better planted on aslope than around a lawn.

Through the years, dwarfand variegated selections ofPennisetum have been intro-duced. They are fun to incor-porate in the landscape.

Red fountain grass is an

accent ornamental that can beused nicely adjacent to a deco-rative boulder or surroundedby contrasting foliage. Consid-er installing red fountain grassalong with gray- or green-leafed plants for maximumdrama. It looks nice withEmerald Carpet manzanita,gray-foliaged Teucriummajoricum and sedum Angeli-na. If you desire taller com-panion installations, plantalong with Moonshine Yarrow,Salvia Indigo Spires and CoralDrift roses.

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]

THE CASCADING LEAVES ON RED FOUNTAIN GRASS have a foun-tain like appearance. This clump-forming grass grows inmounds or clumps, making it ideal for many areas withoutbecoming invasive.

Hikers at the MitchellCanyon Visitor Center oftenask about poison oak: Whatexactly does it look like? Canyou get it without touching it?

Docents show them photosof poison oak, or a thrivingexample at the MitchellCanyon trailhead. But it’stough to say what it actuallylooks like.

Its scientific name is Toxi-codendron diversilobum,meaning “toxic woody plantwith leaves of varying shape.”The whole plant is ashapeshifter: It grows asgroundcover, a vine, a bush, ahedge and can even wind itsway into a tree and imitate itsbranches.

To add further confusion,poison ivy grows in close prox-imity to similar-looking plants,including other three-leavedplants.

To answer the second ques-tion: Yes, you can get poisonoak without touching the plant– but only by direct contactwith its oil on your boots,sleeve, pet, hiking poles or theskin of another person who

brushed by poison oak.The oil, called urushiol,

doesn’t just blow around willy-nilly in the wind, and the itchyrash it causes is not contagious.Once cleaned of the oil, therash and blisters can’t spread,

not even via the fluid thatoozes from the blisters. Thatfluid is part of your body’sresponse to the oil.

Never build a campfirewith poison oak branches. Theoil will travel with the smoke,

and you can get an interior rashby breathing it.

Despite the hazards of poi-son oak, it’s worth the hassle.Our wildlife loves the stuff. Infact, it’s critical for more than50 kinds of birds in Californiawho depend on its fruit andseeds, as well as insect-eatingbirds that scour the leaves forprey. Poison oak offers densecover for birds and mammals,including deer, who alsobrowse the leaves heavily. Lotsof birds nest in poison oak.Butterflies, moths, bees andbeetles all go for the pollen andnectar.

You can learn to unmaskpoison oak by its leaves alone,whatever shape the plant takes.Look at the accompanyingphoto. All three have leaves intriplets, but only the leaves ofthe poison oak in the middleare glossy and free of thorns

and fine hairs. It’s also the onlyone with lobes.

Don’t rely on seeing lobes,however. Remember that namediversilobum. It gives you fairwarning of this shapeshifter’sleaves of many shapes. Lookdeeply, through its disguises,and you’ll come to know thisplant.

Hobbet is a docent with theMount Diablo Interpretive Associa-tion. For more information, visitmdia.org.

CAN YOU TELL WHICH IS POISON OAK? It’s in the middle, surrounded by Himalayan blackberryon the left and hopbush on the right.

STACI HoBBeT

ON THEMOUNTAIN

Unmasking the shapeshifter that is poison oak

Page 18: JUL 08 Clayton Pioneer 2016

Page 18 Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com July 8, 2016

Nancy Bennett, Realtor @ Keller Williams Realty#1 Agent in Concord, #1 Team, Keller Williams East Bay#5 Team Nationally (U.S. & Canada) Keller WilliamsAgent Leadership Council, Mentor, Faculty Member and Community Sponsor [email protected] 925.606.8400 BENNETTBETTER.COM

CalBRE #01399870

Pleasant Hill Gem Inviting home featuring 3 bed/2 bath, a 2-story fireplace, andan expansive trex deck over-looking natural surroundings.

Single-Story Concord Home Features 4 bed/2 bath, largekitchen, new lighting, masterbed w en suite bath and an elevator!

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

Sell Now Before Competition Hits The MarketIn their current edition of the Home Price Expectation Survey released last

week, Pulsenomicsasked this question of the 100+ economists, real estate expertsand investment & market strategists they surveyed:

“In your opinion, what is the primary driver of recent home value growth in theU.S.?”Here are the top four reasons given

by those surveyed:

As we have stated before, the cur-rent lack of inventory in most housingmarkets has caused home apprecia-tion to increase at greater percentagesthan historical averages. This meansthat this is a great time to sell yourhome as supply is low and demand ishigh.

However, things may be about to change…The fortuitous situation sellers see themselves in may soon change for three

reasons:1. As more homeowners realize their equity situation has dramatically improvedover the last four years, they will be more likely to put their homes on the mar-ket.

2. With the residential real estate sector outperforming a sluggish economy,more home builders will be looking to add new construction inventory to adepleted supply of housing stock.

3. Many banks are just now foreclosing on loans that have been delinquentsince the housing bust. These houses will also be coming to market.

According to Daren Blomquist, senior vice president of RealtyTrac, in the Q22016 U.S. Residential Property Vacancy and Zombie Foreclosure Report:“Lenders have been taking advantage of the strong seller’s market to dispose

of lingering foreclosure inventory.”

Bottom LineIn most housing markets, don’t wait for this additional competition to hit the

market. If you are considering selling your house, now may be the time.

4372 FallbrookRd., ConcordTurtle CreekBeauty! 3 bed/2.5 bath homein Turtle Creekfeaturing soar-ing ceilings,new carpet and fresh paint through out.Boasts a fantastic back yard space with alarge patio perfect for entertaining.

Offered at $642,000

Waltrip Lane,ConcordUpdated PoolHome!Charming 3bed/2 bath sin-gle story homewith a sparklingin ground pool. Features new modern light-ing, new carpet in the bedrooms, and freshpaint through out. Excellent neighborhoodnear the Walnut Creek border.

Offered at $570,000

5132 BrooksideCt., Concord Beautifully updated singlestory Concordhome. Features agorgeous backyard perfect for entertaining with a gas fire-place & brick patio. Numerous updatesthrough out including new flooring, freshpaint & updated bathrooms.

OFFERED AT $639,000

15 SouthamptonPl., LafayetteA complete remodel and tons of privacy! This 4 bed/2.5bath single-story beauty just underwent agorgeous renovation. New flooringthroughout and incredible master suite witha soaking tub and walk-in closet. Enjoy en-tertaining by the in ground pool and ex-pansive patio! OFFERED AT $1,450,000

We helped over 51 families buy and sell homes again so far in 2016. How can we help you and your family today?

PENDING

SOLDSOLD

2450 CharlotteAve., Concord

Single-Story Con-cord Charmer! Move in ready sin-gle-story home. Thisadorable homefeatures many updates and plenty ofcharm. 4 bed/2 baths, new and updatedkitchen, new stainless steel appliances,new carpet and fresh paint throughout theproperty. Conveniently located close topublic transportation. A fantastic place tocall home! Offered at $520,000

4413 ArrowwoodCt., Concord

Gorgeous transformation in the Crossings! Boasts 4 bed/2.5baths remodeledkitchen & baths with marble counters, newconcrete patio with sitting wall and newflooring through out. Perfect for entertain-ing! Don’t miss out on this transformedbeauty in this highly sought after commu-nity! Offered at $774,000

SOLDSOLD

Coming Soon!

Save Mount Diablo hasfound a way to sell off excessproperties while still staying trueto its land protection mission.Selling a few properties under aConservation Easement Pro-gram will allow SMD to retaincontrol of the use of the prop-erty while freeing up capital forfuture investment.

The group owns or man-ages 20 properties totaling2,300 acres – the size of asmall park district. Many ofthe properties are in MorganTerritory or along Marsh CreekRoad. Currently several prop-erties are on the market orsoon to be. All will sell subjectto the perpetual conservationeasements, which SMD holds.The group will use the revenueto acquire other property ormore conservation easements.This method allows for protec-tion of properties with impor-tant habitat that may not bewell-suited additions to a park

or preserve because of size orlocation.

The program will include aparcel in Curry Canyon in Mor-gan Territory and several alongMarsh Creek Road. The value ofa house may have been much ofthe property’s acquisition cost,and resale allows SMD to bothprotect the property’s resourcesand to recoup that cost for addi-tional preservation.

Ted Clement, SMD’s newexecutive director, started thisinitiative based on his years ofwork with conservation ease-ments and Conservation Buyerefforts.

“A conservation easement isa voluntary legal agreementbetween a landowner and a qual-ified organization, such as a landtrust, to protect the natural orcultural resources on that land

forever,” Clement said. “In ourarea, development threatensunique habitat, creates a hugebarrier to the movement ofwildlife and also depletes essen-tial components of the ecosys-tem, such as water.”

Meredith Hendricks, thegroup’s land programs director,said the new program will ulti-mately help preserve more landin the Diablo wilderness.

“The conservation ease-ments will protect the resourceswe purchased the property tosave and allow the landowner tolive in and maintain their homes,as they normally would,” Hen-dricks said. “We work with thelandowner to reach a permanentagreement that gives them theflexibility they need within asmall portion of the property,usually an acre or less, while con-serving the habitat over the vastmajority of the property.”

Save Mount Diablo wasfounded in 1971 with the goal ofquickly turning land acquisitionsover to park agencies for long-term management. Much of the

land SMD has purchased overthe years is now incorporatedinto Mt. Diablo State Park or theEast Bay Regional Park District.

However, park agencytransfers became more difficultaround 2000, when the statepark system dramaticallyslowed in accepting new prop-erties. The last SMD parceltransferred to Mt. Diablo StatePark was the 20-acre MorganRed Corral in 2005.

Kim Morucci of J. RockcliffRealtors is the listing agent forfour properties to be sold withconservation easements. Aseven-acre site in Curry Canyonis currently listed for $500,000in an area of million dollarhomes. Morucci, who lives onMorgan Territory is not worriedthat a sale at this price will affectproperty values in the priceyrural neighborhood. “Thehome is a 35-year-old modularwith some water issues,” shesaid. “Combined with the ease-ment, the property will not beconsidered a comparable prop-erty when real estate agents are

pricing new listings to sell.”Several other parcels on

Marsh Creek Road are not yeton the market. One site has ahome, while the others are bareland.

According to Clement, theconservation easement limitssome of the landowners’ rightson the property in order to pro-tect the property’s conservationvalues, such as habitat andwildlife. The easements will pro-hibit subdividing property foradditional homes, protect creekcorridors and protect habitatsuch as the oak woodlands.Some of the easements mayreserve trail and access rights.

In some cases, conserva-tion easements may offer low-ered property taxes, incometaxes and/or estate taxes forthe owner.

For more information, visithttp://www.savemountdiablo.org/lands_conservation_buyers.html orcontact Meredith Hendricks [email protected].

Most fatalities occur withinthe first five minutes of a housefire. Families have 1-2 minuteson average to safely evacuatefrom a home fire, according tothe National Fire ProtectionAssociation (NFPA).

A Contra Costa familylearned that lesson when fire hittheir home in the early morninghours last fall.

Colleen, a working mother oftwo, had gotten up to do paper-work in the dining room. Fire-place ashes had been collectedand placed in a bin near theattached garage the night before.They had smoldered overnight,

eventually catching fire andspreading to the garage.

The recessed lighting sud-denly went out at 5 a.m., soColleen quickly left her chair tocheck the circuit breakers. Sud-denly, black smoke emergedfrom the garage.

She immediately awakenedher husband and children. Theysafely evacuated from theirburning home, then called 911.

It was fortunate she wasawake, because people can’t smellthe smoke produced from a firewhen they are asleep. In fact,smoke may actually deepen sleep.

Usage and maintenance ofsmoke alarms in a home increas-es survival rates by 50 percent.

Smoke alarms should beinstalled on every level of ahome and in each bedroom.They should be checked month-ly and replaced every 8-10 years.

There are two types: ioniza-tion and photoelectric. Ioniza-tion alarms are responsive toflames, while photoelectricalarms respond quickly tosmoke. NFPA and others withinthe field recommend that home-owners install both types. Acombination ionization-photo-electric alarm, known as a dualsensor alarm, is also available.

All smoke alarms should beinterconnected, so that whenone sounds, they will all sound.The alarms should be from the

same manufacturer to ensurecompatibility.

The Public Education Unitat the Contra Costa Fire Protec-tion District will install smokealarms and carbon monoxidedetectors at no cost to home-owners age 60 plus and disabledresidents of any age. Consult-ants are available to advise resi-dents about the best locationsfor smoke alarms and a carbonmonoxide detector. Call 925-941-3327or visitwww.cccfpd.org/education-pro-grams.php.

For her part, Colleenregrets not installing a smokealarm in the garage. She alsowishes she had time to retrieve

family photo albums.“It’s difficult to remember

everything after it’s gone,” shesays.

The home is being restored,and the family plans to return in2017. As a fire survivor, Colleenhas some suggestions:

• Have a plan for grabbingimportant items quickly whenit’s time to evacuate.

• Re-examine your home insur-ance policy and thoroughlycheck your fire insurance cov-erage. Keep in mind thatyou’re obligated to pay yourmortgage, even though yourhome has burned and you maybe living elsewhere.

• Videotape your belongings.Open drawers and cupboards,photograph family treasures,clothing and other valuables.

Here are a few additional firesafety tips:• Maintain smoke alarms and a

carbon monoxide detector.• Have a plan in case of fire and

share it with family members.• Know two exits for each room

in the house.• Choose an outside meeting

place.• Call 911 after you evacuate.

For more information, visitwww.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/safety-in-the-home/escape-planning/.

SMD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TED CLEMENT AND LAND CONSERVA-TION MANAGER SETH ADAMS mark the one acre building padwith an existing house on the Morgan Territory propertywhich will be excluded from the 5 –acres that will be pro-tected from development by a conservation easement.

TAMARA STEINERClayton Pioneer

Smoke detectors, family plan key to escaping home fireCANDACE BASS

Special to the Pioneer

SMD sells lands, retains conservation control


MAY 22 Clayton Pioneer 2009.pdf

MAY 22 Clayton Pioneer 2009.pdf

AUG 14 Clayton Pioneer 2015

AUG 14 Clayton Pioneer 2015

JUL 24 Clayton Pioneer 2009.pdf

JUL 24 Clayton Pioneer 2009.pdf

OCT 9 Clayton Pioneer 2015

OCT 9 Clayton Pioneer 2015

Feb 14 Clayton Pioneer 2014

Feb 14 Clayton Pioneer 2014

DEC 12 Clayton Pioneer 2014

DEC 12 Clayton Pioneer 2014

July 12 clayton pioneer 2013

July 12 clayton pioneer 2013

JUL 23 Clayton Pioneer 2010.pdf

JUL 23 Clayton Pioneer 2010.pdf

NOV 28 Clayton Pioneer 2014

NOV 28 Clayton Pioneer 2014

Mar 14 Clayton Pioneer 2014

Mar 14 Clayton Pioneer 2014

Sept 27 clayton pioneer 2013

Sept 27 clayton pioneer 2013

JUN 24 Clayton Pioneer 2011.pdf

JUN 24 Clayton Pioneer 2011.pdf

May 27 Clayton Pioneer 2011

May 27 Clayton Pioneer 2011

DEC 11 Clayton Pioneer 2015

DEC 11 Clayton Pioneer 2015

Sept 13 Clayton Pioneer 2013

Sept 13 Clayton Pioneer 2013

NOV 06 Clayton Pioneer 2009.pdf

NOV 06 Clayton Pioneer 2009.pdf

MAY 15 Clayton Pioneer 2015

MAY 15 Clayton Pioneer 2015

NOV 07 Clayton Pioneer 2014

NOV 07 Clayton Pioneer 2014

DEC 18 Clayton Pioneer 2009.pdf

DEC 18 Clayton Pioneer 2009.pdf

OCT 22 Clayton Pioneer 2010.pdf

OCT 22 Clayton Pioneer 2010.pdf