VOLUME XLIX, NUMBER 48 Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING DUBLIN • LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012

Livermore School Board OKs Charter School renewal petition By Patricia Koning of Understanding (MOU) school has community sup- 23. TVLC held a special “I’m happy that the Dis- Find Out What's In a unanimous vote, the as is and delivering the ex- port and an outstanding board meeting to review the trict worked with us and I trustees of the Livermore ecuted version by 5 pm on educational program for its report and MOU on Monday, think we’ve made a lot of Happening Valley Joint Unified School Friday, Nov. 30. students,” said superinten- Nov. 26. On the afternoon progress,” said Batchelor. District approved the re- This marks a first for dent Kelly Bowers. “This is of Tuesday, Nov. 27, TVLC “We still need to evaluate Check Out Section A newal petition for the Liver- LVCS and the District, as the the beginning of a process chief operating officer Bill this amended version of the Section A is filled with more Valley Charter School District denied both the orig- to bring together our two Batchelor met with Bowers MOU.” information about arts, (LVCS). The approval is inal LVCS petition in 2004 communities over common and assistant superintendent The MOU covered the people, entertainment and contingent on the Board and the first renewal petition values, the education of our Chris Van Schaack to dis- District’s concerns with special events. There are of the Tri Valley Learning in 2007. The State Board of students.” cuss proposed changes to the the LVCS renewal petition. education stories, a variety Those concerns, in general, of features, and the arts and Corporation (TVLC), which Education approved both of The District provided MOU, some of which were entertainment and bulletin oversees LVCS, approving those petitions. TVLC with its staff report implemented in the amended fell under special educa- board. an amended Memorandum “We recognize that this and MOU on Friday, Nov. MOU. (See CHARTER, page 4)

Appeals Court Faster, Hearing Is Encouraging More To Retirees Efficient Retirees from Lawrence Livermore National Labora- Service tory who sued to be returned to University of California health and benefits programs Envisioned were encouraged by an ap- peals court hearing in Oak- by BART land last week. However, BART directors liked the University of California what they heard concerning Livermore Retiree Group the agency's vision to serve must wait for the court to more customers and provide rule on a motion by the more frequent service by University that their suit be 2025. dismissed. Motivating the report, The Livermore Lab retir- which directors heard at ees were removed from the their meeting Nov. 15, is a UC benefits system in 2008, call from the Metropolitan when a for-profit consortium Transportation Commission replaced UC in managing (MTC) to all transit agencies the Laboratory. Several to plan more efficient, cost- hundred of the retirees or- saving service for the future. ganized, established a legal The goal is to serve 50 per- fund and filed suit in Su- cent more riders by 2025, to perior Court in Oakland in Photo - Doug Jorgensen build on the trend towards 2010 to force the University Making the announcement that Livermore will host the Amgen Tour in 2013 are (from left) Tim Toonen, Tri-Valley increased ridership, and to restore the benefits. Tourism Bureau, Livermore Mayor John Marchand, and Dave Best, Shea Homes. Both the visitors bureau and partly the desire to attract They claimed that an im- Shea Homes have contributed money to bring the tour to Livermore. even more riders to enhance plicit if not explicit contract fare-box revenue. existed under which UC The BART vision has had repeatedly promised to two general strategies. One continue their health ben- involves service to a grow- efits after retirement, and Livermore to Host Amgen Stage in 2013 ing number of planned tran- that they had made career sit-oriented developments decisions based on those For the third time, the race. The deadline for apply- funds raised by members of hotel rooms and meals for (TOD), in which residents promises. City of Livermore has been ing was Mon., Nov. 26. the public. participants. would not only ride BART Last week’s hearing in selected to be a host city. Following the council On Monday, the council White told the council to work, but also use BART the First District Court of For the 2013 race, Liver- vote, Amgen was notified of agreed to pledge $35,000 on Monday that the city as the preferred transporta- Appeal in San Francisco re- more will host the Stage the decision. towards funding the race was contacted by several tion to go shopping, dining sponded to the University’s 7 Start on Saturday, May At issue for the council in Livermore. That money community organizations out and visiting entertain- that will test the riders’ was the use of general fund asking the city to host the ment venues. (See RETIREES, page 8) 18 will be offset by support climbing skills with a finish monies to help finance the from the private sector, ac- race. He pointed out that The TODs can put pas- at Mt. Diablo. race. Staff had requested cording to Rob White, City $35,000 had been pledged sengers on trains for two On Monday, the city $100,000. It was noted that of Livermore Economic to date. He expected to col- round-trips in one day, not Pleasanton council reversed a decision other events, such as the 4th Development Director. The lect an additional $15,000 just one, with the increased not to take part in the bicycle of July, were staged using money pays for the cost of (See AMGEN, page 2) off-peak usage contributing Allocates (See BART, page 4) Excess Funds Pleasanton's 2011-2012 general fund budget in- Two Livermore Schools cluded excess funds, making it possible to direct $2.1 mil- To Institute Free and lion to other projects. The final revenues were Reduced Cost Dinners just over $90 million; ex- Antioch, Pittsburg, West penditures around $87 mil- By Ron McNicoll Contra Costa and Oakland lion. The city council voted The Livermore school about the dinner program. to assign $1 million of the district plans to begin serv- All reported success with $2.1 million to help reduce ing free or reduced cost adding the dinners. the city's unfunded pension dinners on school days at The other districts, es- liability; $561,000 went Marylin Avenue and Junc- pecially Oakland and West towards Phase II of the tion Avenue schools soon Contra Costa, have much Bernal Park development; after the first of the year. larger enrollment numbers and $561,000 into the repair While Livermore and eligible for free and reduced and replacement fund. other districts offer free and lunches. Livermore qualifies The city's director of reduced lunches and break- for the dinner program be- finance, Emily Wagner, told fasts, Livermore will be the cause of the percentages of the council last week that first in the Valley, and the eligible students compared property and sales taxes second district in Alameda to the total student popula- were lower than expected. County, to offer the subsi- tion at those schools. However, fees for develop- dized dinners. At Marylin Avenue, 83 ment services were higher, A meeting was set for percent of the 485 students as was the income from the this week to plan menus and are eligible. Some 62 per- hotel/motel tax. Wagner other aspects to prepare for Photo - Doug Jorgensen cent of the 813 students at added that the increase in the instituting the program, said A new sculpture was recently installed on Sunol Boulevard in Centennial Park Junction are qualified. By hotel/motel tax is a positive Barbara Lee, the district's di- north of the Pleasanton Senior Center. The multi-colored sculpture, “Wind Song,” comparison, districtwide sign that the area is coming rector of campus catering. was created by Artist Greg Hawthorne. The $52,000 sculpture is made of stainless 26 percent of the 12,664 out of the recession. Approximately 50 to 75 steel and painted in cheerful colors. A cement patio will be added shortly to give students qualify. At Sunset Most of the development children at each of the two onlookers a chance to walk around the sculpture. “Wind Song” was presented to school, 7 percent of the 810 fees came from the new schools are expected to par- Pleasanton by Nancy and Gary Harrington. The Harringtons have created “Another students are eligible. Continuing Life Communi- ticipate in the program, said Harrington Art Partnership Piece for You” (HAPPY) as a way to bring more art to the Lee acknowledged that ties senior housing under Lee. She has been meeting city. Contributions are sought to help to purchase the art. For more information, visit (See DINNERS, page 8) construction on the Staples with her counterparts in www.harringtonartpartnership.org Ranch. Pleasanton lost close to $2 million in sales tax PET OF THE WEEK revenues. Of that $1 mil- Inside Hello everyone! My name is Thumper and boy, am I one cool dog. I am only about a year old, and guess what lion was paid to the City of breed I am - basset hound and Labrador mix. Neat, Livermore as the result of SECTION A Editorial...... 4 right? I think so. I am just under 50 pounds and I look the state incorrectly paying a bit like a sausage, but I’m seriously cute. I have such the tax to Pleasanton. The re- Art & Entertainment...... 8 Mailbox...... 4 an outgoing personality- everybody I meet is my friend. maining $1 million involved Bulletin Board...... 11 Roundup...... 3 Will you be my friend? I hope so! For more information, call us at 426-8656 or go online to www.valleyhumane. taxes paid on goods sold in Milestones ...... 12 Short Notes...... 7 Pleasanton but shipped from org or www.facebook.com/ValleyHumaneSociety to see MAIN SECTION Sports...... 6 other adoptable dogs and cats. Valley Humane Society (See FUNDS, page 8) is located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Photo Classifieds...... 10 Obituaries...... 9 by Trina Cort

PAGE 2 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 Actions in CAP Mainly Voluntary for Residents and Businesses The Livermore City Among actions already idle, concentrating on tran- in property values with the remarks, rather concentrate with inconsistency. He re- Council voted unanimously taken by the city include: so- sit oriented development, addition of more trees. on the CAP proposals. called living in Southern to adopt the draft Climate lar installations at city hall, enhancing transportation The city would need to Several took offense at California and the thick Action Plan (CAP). a green building ordinance, opportunities, synchroniz- set up a monitoring and restricting their statements. blanket of smog that ob- The state's AB32 requires participation in the regional ing traffic signs, improving tracking system to determine "I'm disturbed that you scured the hills. He said a reduction in greenhouse solar cities program, inten- bicycle and pedestrian sys- how the plan is working, don't want to discuss global one of the good things that gas emissions in California sification of development tems, and implementing a added Walter. As part of the warming," said one. Pat came out of the 1960s was to 1990 levels by 2020. In in the downtown, use of small car sharing program. implementation, outreach to Ferguson stated that global an environmental conscious. order to do so, local entities recycled water, an increase Reducing the use of water educate people regarding the warming stopped sixteen Gary added that if there were are establishing CAPs. in recycling, and preserva- would reduce the amount voluntary options would be years ago. She presented the no plan to deal with green- In reviewing the plan tion and expansion of the needing to be conveyed. The needed. council with information on house emissions, we would for the city council, Senior urban forest. main cost of conveyance is Four members of the a study she was using for be repeating the mistakes of Planner Ingrid Rademaker, The proposed plan con- the energy needed to move public spoke. They were ab- her remarks. She suggested the past. "This is a good road noted that it contains vol- centrates in three areas. the water. Less water to solutely opposed to the plan. that the city should conduct map. It tries to do the right untary measures that can One is in energy use; the move would lower energy They declared that it added an environmental review of things the best way it can in be taken by residents along second is transportation cost. costs, government mandates the plan. an incremental manner." with continued city actions. and land use; and the third Walter said that a CAP and would have a negative George Duarte, member Councilmember Bob She pointed out that 75 water use. would streamline the envi- impact on private property of a legal government rela- Woerner also said of Los percent of the actions are Energy use could be re- ronmental reviews needed rights. "Voluntary measures tions committee for a large Angeles that breathing smog already required by state or duced through voluntary for project approvals. Rather tend to become mandatory," realtor group, took an oppo- hurt. "These things do mat- federal measures. energy efficiency retrofits than a complete analysis of said one speaker. It was site view. "I am encouraged ter. The plan is not perfect. The largest emissions of for existing residences and greenhouse gas impacts, the suggested that the transit by adoption of the CAP. This It is reasonably comprehen- greenhouse gases come from commercial development, EIR would determine if a de- oriented development was is a good plan. As a realtor, sive and leverages what has transportation, followed by changing streets lights to velopment were consistent social engineering designed I am aware of the impor- already been accomplished residential energy use and LEDs, voluntary residential with the CAP. to make everyone live in tance of energy efficiency in in the city." commercial energy use. and non-residential rooftop Other positives include high density housing. homes. I appreciate they are Mayor John Marchand Consultant Rich Walter, solar, and voluntary solar energy savings both in use Responding to public voluntary programs." added that the voluntary ICF International principal, over parking areas. and cost, reduction in waste, comment, Mayor John Councilmember Stew- aspect reduces onerous im- described some of the pro- Proposed transportation reduction in vehicle miles Marchand asked that speak- art Gary commented that pacts on residents and busi- posed actions and resulting actions include reducing the traveled, health benefits with ers not address the issues change comes slowing and nesses. benefits. time trucks are allowed to cleaner air, and an increase of climate change in their

(continuedAMGEN from page one)

over the next few weeks. In sponsors, only contracts is typically in excess of $1 funds to off-set the costs of riders on a South to North picturesque Santa Barbara, addition, Amgen directors with cities. million in the local econo- this event, including Shea course for the first time in which last hosted the race in reconsidered some of the “We welcome the Am- my over the period of time Homes, Chevron Energy the eight-year race history. 2008, for the Stage 4 finish. requirements in order for gen Tour of California into that the Tour of California Solutions, the Livermore The official race start, The race will remain in Livermore to save money. Livermore’s award-winning takes place in a jurisdiction. Valley Chamber of Com- Stage 1, will begin and finish Santa Barbara for the start of One cost savings could downtown for the Stage These benefits include room merce, Livermore Down- in Escondido, a city located Stage 5 of the 2013 Amgen be realized by using more 7 Start,” said Livermore nights at local and regional town Inc., and the Tri-Val- in northern San Diego that Tour of California. Racers volunteers. White said that Mayor John Marchand. “We hotels, meals by visitors and ley Convention and Visitors had previously hosted 2009’s head north to Avila Beach is a greater possibility with a invite everyone to enjoy participants, local shopping Bureau. We are confident spectacular overall finish. for the Stage 5 finish. San Saturday date. People do not the start of this world class for gifts and memorabilia, that this year’s Amgen Tour The next day, Stage 2 will Jose will play host to Stage have to take time off work. cycling event, to experi- and other visitor-oriented of California will once again take riders through the hot 6 and the Individual Time Councilmember Bob Wo- ence the premier shopping economic activities. highlight the many outstand- desert terrain from Murrieta Trial, marking the eighth erner asked what would hap- at the new Paragon Outlets White stated, “The op- ing qualities of Livermore to Greater Palm Springs, consecutive year the race has pen if the costs were higher Livermore, and to explore portunity to partner with by bringing an infusion of two cities making their race visited the city. San Jose is than anticipated. California’s oldest wine AEG to bring the Amgen tourism straight into the debut. For Stage 3, the race the only city to participate White said that a number region. It all comes down Tour of California back heart of our downtown, will return to Palmdale for a in all eight editions of the of downtown businesses, the to quality of life – and we to Livermore for 2013 dem- filling the coffee houses, stage start and then travel ap- race. Livermore Valley Chamber define it. Livermore, there’s onstrates this community’s restaurants, shops and hotels proximately 100 miles west Stage 7 will start in Liver- of Commerce and Liver- more here.” commitment to quality on a weekend day.” to the city of Santa Clarita. more and head to Mt. Diablo more Downtown, Inc. could According to a press re- of life events and healthy Twelve cities in all have The city, which hosted the for an intense mountaintop help with the hard costs. He lease, independent studies life-styles. Several local been named official Host race in 2007, 2008, 2009 and finish. The eighth and final pointed out that a private suggest the financial benefit businesses and organiza- City partners for the 2013 2011, will also serve as the stage of the 2013 Amgen entity could not contract to and economic impact of be- tions partnered with the Amgen Tour of California start of Stage 4. From there, Tour of California will start host the race. AEG, the race ing a Host City for the ATOC City of Livermore to raise by AEG. The route will take the cyclists will ride north in San Francisco and finish toward the Pacific Coast and in Santa Rosa. The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 - PAGE 3

the California Democratic Congressional • UPS offeres a program titled, “UPS Delegation where he advised the state’s My Choice” that provides delivery alerts 34 Democratic Members of Congress on to electronic devices as well as package statewide policy. tracking. The free service allows a recipi- Haggerty to Host Open House resources to residents: Le has worked on a variety of local, ent to coordinate delivery to other loca- Alameda County Supervisor Scott • In an emergency, please call 9-1-1 state, and federal campaigns over the last tions or to a nearby UPS Store. http:// Haggerty will open the doors of his • Public Works Department (925) twelve years, including a statewide cam- www.ups.com/mychoice/features/ Pleasanton district office, the Heritage 833-6630 paign in California. He was born in Da • The United States Postal Service House, located on the Alameda County • After business hours, please contact Nang, Vietnam and came to the United also provides several methods of protec- Fairgrounds, for a holiday open house the police non-emergency number: (925) States as a political refugee at the age of tion through package tracking and “hold event. The event will take place on 462-1212 five. He became a U.S. citizen in 2002. mail” services. https://www.usps.com/ Tuesday, December 18, from 5:30pm • For PGE outages contact: 1-800- Le grew up in San Jose, California, • Some companies provide a “special to 8:00pm. 743-5000 earned a B.A. from the University of instructions” category allowing for the Supervisor Haggerty and his staff • Sandbags are available to local busi- California, Santa Cruz and a J.D. from possibility of placing packages in a more will be on hand to welcome constituents, nesses and residents at the City’s Public Santa Clara University School of Law. secure location (ie: “place inside fence commissioners, elected officials and Works Maintenance Facility located at on side yard”). anyone who wishes to stop by. This 5777 Scarlett Court in Dublin. Amazon Center In Tracy The police recommend not allowing will be an informal social event complete The City of Dublin Police Department, Amazon, the online retail giant, an- valuable packages to be left on porches with light refreshments. This open house City staff, and Alameda County Fire De- nounced plans to build a distribution cen- or in mailboxes for extended periods event will also serve as a great time to partment are here to serve the community. ter on a 70-acre site in north Tracy. The of time. drop off a toy or canned food item for For further updates, please refer to the center is expected to open in the Spring Please report crimes and suspicious donation to local charities, Open Heart City’s website www.dublin.ca.gov. with some 1,000 jobs and projected rev- persons or incidents to the Livermore Kitchen and Abode Homeless Services. enues of $1 million per year for the city, Police Department (non-emergency: The historic Heritage house will be Swalwell Greets Voters according to news reports. 925-371-4987 / emergency: 911). decorated with lights and décor through Eric Swalwell, 15tth Congressional It’s the second Amazon center an- the holidays courtesy of Jim and Brandy District’s newly elected representative, nounced for the region in recent months. Garamendi Named to was on hand Nov. 22 to thank voters and Theofanopoulos of the Screen Machine Last May, Amazon began work on a to hear their top priorities. Ag Committee in Livermore. distribution center near Patterson, some Congressman John Garamendi (D- For more information on this event, “Last Thanksgiving I hit the ‘Black 20 miles to the south. That center is Fairfield, CA) was recommended to please contact Supervisor Haggerty’s Friday’ sales to introduce myself to con- expected to generate some 350 jobs and serve as a Member of the House Agri- Outreach Coordinator Leah Doyle-Ste- stituents and hear what they expected have the potential to grow, according to culture Committee. He expected official vens at (925) 551-6995. from their Congressman,” said Swalwell. the state Office of Business and Eco- approval during Wednesday's Demo- The fairgrounds are located at 4501 “This Thanksgiving, I’m grateful the nomic Development. Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton. voters have put their faith in me to listen cratic Caucus meeting. Garamendi, a to them at home and work for them in Amazon last week declined to com- lifelong rancher and farmer, will join in Washington.” ment on the reasons for building two bicameral negotiations on the farm bill, Dublin Prepares for Storms centers. However, Tracy mayor Brent which could be voted on by the House The City of Dublin is preparing for the Swalwell was at Toys R Us in Dublin Ives was quoted by the Stockton Record in December. anticipated series of storms occurring in and Target in Hayward on Nov. 22. as saying that the Patterson facility will “I didn’t enter Congress to twiddle my the Bay Area that were projected to start “I promised to be accessible and ac- focus on bulk distribution while the Tracy thumbs and sit quietly in the background. on Wednesday of this week. City Public countable,” said Swalwell. “I learned one “will make use of advanced robotics I must be where the needs of my district Works staff has been preparing for the last year that this is a great way to chat and offer better-paying jobs.” are and that’s in the final negotiations for upcoming storms, including clearing any with constituents and I’m excited to be the five-year farm bill. I want to thank debris or leaves that have accumulated back in line.” Beware of Mail Theft Speaker Boehner and Leader Pelosi in the storm drains and inlets. Addition- Livermore postal carrier Angela for giving me this opportunity to serve ally, crews have checked and cleared the Swalwell Selects Chief of Staff Flemings thwarted a would-be mail thief. where I am needed,” said Congressman debris racks in the creeks that lead from Ricky Le has been tapped by Con- She spotted the suspect, contacted police, Garamendi. the hills. Of particular concern with the gressman-elect Eric Swalwell as Chief then followed the suspect until police “Passing a good farm bill is very incoming storms this week are the poten- of Staff. Swalwell stated, “Ricky brings more than six years experience working could arrive to make the arrest. important to the family farmers in my tial wind gusts on Wednesday morning on Capitol Hill and has strong ties to the The Livermore Post Office urges resi- district, and the nutrition assistance in the which weather services have forecast Bay Area. He understands the needs of dents to guard their own mail. The office farm bill provides vital help to struggling could reach up to 55 mph in Dublin. the district and my desire to have an of- points out that there has been a rash of families throughout California,” Gara- Public Works Department staff will fice operation focused on our district and thefts recently. mendi added. “As a farmer and rancher, continue to monitor the activity during being accessible to constituents.” The Livermore Police Department I know we need to get this done, and I and between storms this week, and staff Le currently works on Capitol Hill has received reports concerning thefts will work around the clock to make sure will be ready to assist should the need as Deputy Chief of Staff and Counsel of delivered packages from front porches California specialty crops and commod- arise for clearing streets of broken limbs for U.S. Representative Zoe Lofgren and mailboxes. This seasonal trend is ity programs are protected.” or any downed street trees, as well as and as a Professional Staffer with the not specific to Livermore, theft-related To join the Agriculture Committee, any localized flooding. Residents are Committee on House Administration crimes have increased nationally over reminded to keep their gutters and storm Garamendi is required to resign from the handling federal elections and House the holidays. House Natural Resources Committee, drains clear of debris. The following may prevent someone oversight matters. Previously, he served which he has done. The City offers the following tips and from becoming a victim of mail theft: for three years as Executive Director of PAGE 4 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 EDITORIALS City Tables LARPD Merger Idea The possible merger of table this and take an official ditional funding would come the issue, I agree it should the City of Livermore and stand that puts the issue to to LARPD through con- be tabled." Honor Roll for District the Livermore Area Rec- rest once and for all." She solidation. Litigation would Horner had an opposite The Pleasanton School District was honored reation and Park District pointed out that another city likely be required to produce view. "To boost LARPD's for its growth in the percentage of Advanced (LARPD) has been tabled. (Brentwood) did not reap the a definitive answer. income by $3 to $4 million Placement (AP) students earning scores of 3 or At the same time, Coun- projected benefits through Mayor John Marchand, would be transformative. consolidation. higher on AP exams. cilmember Stewart Gary who sits on the LAFCO Rather than maintain assets, suggested that the city and The question was first board as an alternate, said it could buy land and build It is one of only of 539 districts in 44 states LARPD hold a joint work- raised two years ago. It was he stated at a recent meet- new parks, sports parks. I do and Canada to be placed on the third annual AP shop to look at ways they based on the idea that the ing that no parties would be not understand the resistance honor roll. Even more impressive, Pleasanton could work together in areas amount of ERAF (Educa- pursuing an application. to entering into talks to get has been on the honor roll all three years. of mutual interest. tional Revenue Augmenta- Woerner said when he this done. I propose we go The city council on Mon- tion Fund) money taken first moved to Livermore, to LAFCO and make the The honor roll is published by the College from LARPD by the state Board. day determined there was he was pleased to find that determination." no interest on the part of would be reduced, leaving LARPD was a district sepa- Gary said he agreed that Pleasanton superintendent Parvin Ahmadi, LARPD or its constituency more money for recreation. rate from the city. "There the original question was stated, “We really believe in providing multiple in the merger. It was suggested that the is a lot of value in being a interesting. Along the way, opportunities for students as they go through our No formal vote was tak- proposed merger could pro- separate district. It's not just it morphed into relationship en. However, each council- vide $3 to $4 million more about money, but quality of and control issues. "This schools. We want to make sure students have each year for recreation. The choices. Offering such an array of AP courses member expressed his or her life. The two entities can is messy. It would require opinion with a mixture of state has taken just over $74 focus on how to best serve extensive litigation to deter- allows students to make choices about what they views. Doug Horner wanted million since 1992. the community. I have no mine what would happen." are passionate about.” to pursue the matter; John Assistant City Manager interest in pursuing anything He pointed out that ERAF The district should be proud of its efforts Marchand liked the idea Troy Brown told the council that would combine the two not new money that LARPD but rejected proceeding; that in order to determine if agencies." would receive. The funds are and the results it has produced in educating there would be more fund- students. Laureen Turner, Stewart Marchand stated, "There currently allocated to educa- Gary, and Bob Woerner all ing available, the city would is a lot of quality of life tion, which would lose the supported not proceeding have to apply to LAFCO for available with an extra $4 money if it were reallocated with a merger. a revenue tax sharing agree- million. Our shared constitu- as part of a merger. AgPark Applauded ment that would analyze the Tri-Valley residents enjoy access to agriculture Turner, who was elected ency could benefit. Howev- "To have a merger, a to the LARPD board prior to ERAF. In discussions with er, since neither the district willing partner is required. as a quality of life. The Sunol Water Temple her election to the council, LAFCO, there was disagree- nor the shared constituency No willing partner exists," AgPark, which has fostered sustainable stated, "I feel we should ment over whether any ad- has any interest in pursing added Gary. farming and public education while protecting natural resources since 2006, deserves special mention. The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (continuedBART from page one) (SFPUC) and SAGE (Sustainable Agriculture Education) partnered to support agriculture in to more revenue per day. improvements to the system lectively more effectively," previous two transportation said McPartland. the region. It's the kind of efficiency are implemented. tax measures. that MTC wants to see from The system will also Haggerty said that the The Alameda County Currently, the 18-acre AgPark provides a home BART, Alameda County grow from 669 cars now to failure could be attribut- Transportation Commission to five small-scale organic farming enterprises. Supervisor Scott Haggerty more than 800, and eventu- ed to the lack of an active (ACTC) wanted the tax "in For local customers, the farmers grow an array of and BART director John ally 980 cars by 2025. The campaign in the Valley and perpetuity" because state and organic fruits and vegetables, including, melons, McPartland told The Inde- study sees phase 1 cutting Fremont. Efforts for the federal funds are no longer campaign were put into peppers, squash, corn and herbs. pendent. total annual vehicle miles by reliable as a source for Bay In addition to reducing 11 percent, and phase 2 will Oakland, where it did pass Area public transportation. The AgPark, the only education farm in the costs, greenhouse gases will cut it another 5 percent. in some precincts, but the Haggerty, an ACTC mem- Tri-Valley, offers field trips for students. More be reduced by getting out of Money is the big factor in Valley and Fremont were left ber, said he agreed with that than 2,000 East Bay students have participated their cars to take advantage moving forward. Aside from on their own, he said. estimation, but said it will in SAGE’s Farming in the Watershed field trips of more and better transit state and federal sources, Haggerty said he per- be important to keep the "in and in-school programs. service. since those are low, director sonally thinks that the "in perpetuity" provision out of The other major strategy James Fang suggested that perpetuity" feature of the tax the ballot measure the next SAGE is currently collaborating with the SF is to improve the central core BART look into private- killed it. "We lost 2000 votes time to be successful. utilities commission to develop the Alameda service, with more trains public partnerships. He did because of the 'in perpetuity' Creek Watershed Center, a permanent center per hour, and longer trains. not have any specific sug- clause. All we needed to to provide hands-on environmental education This strategy also increases gestions, but said that since do was change 1001 of the for schoolchildren, service-learning and job fare-box revenue, because other projects funded in votes," said Haggerty. more passengers are moved that manner, BART should The goal is to go back to (continuedCHARTER from page one) training for youth, and volunteer and stewardship per hour. Speedier service explore the idea. voters in 2016. As a result, opportunities for community members. is expected to attract more The study looked only there won't be any match- tion and English Language The new center will provide even more focus riders. at stations that already have ing funds coming to the Learners, demographics, on the benefits of locally grown produce. The Staff reported on such extensions funded, namely Livermore extension. That suspension and expulsion, efforts of SAGE and the support of SFPUC in ideas as bringing all trains Berryessa in San Jose and will tack four more years on and fiscal issues. to the completion date, said preserving and promoting agriculture are to be up to the 10-car limit during e-BART to Antioch. Liver- “None of these are deal rush hours, and splitting 10- more was off the list because Haggerty. breakers,” said Van Schaack. applauded. car trains into five cars each there is no assured funding However, there is money “In fact, several just require Those interested in learning more about at the Bayfair station. One for it. available to conduct the modifying the language in becoming involved with or contributing to the train would go to Fremont MCPARTLAND, environmental studies for the petition. We can create AgPark can visit www.sagecenter.org. (and eventually to the future HAGGERTY the extension, and for all a document that allows us to San Jose Berryessa station) ANALYZE B1 LOSS of the other projects on the provide oversight, recogniz- and the other train to Dub- Voters rejected Measure Measure B1 project list, so ing that this is an outstand- lin/Pleasanton. B1 on Nov. 6. It failed by that work will continue, said ing school, but that it still The train-splitting idea is less than 1 percentage point. Haggerty. requires legal oversight.” popular in Europe and Asia, McPartland said it fell only Haggerty said that go- Several trustees and audi- said BART project manager about 800 votes short. He ing to the ballot in 2014 ence members thanked Dis- Malcolm Quint. told The Independent that would be too soon, because trict staff and TVLC for their Another measure would he thought the measure lost the Board of Supervisors work on the MOU. “I’m glad add short-run trains in the because of "poor public promised AC Transit that it to see this MOU complete Breach Of Contract Lawsuit core area, including down- education" concerning its would be able to put its bond and I think it is good for town San Francisco and benefits. measure before voters then. our District and the charter Is Headed For February Trial Oakland, as soon as turn- "If I polled the people AC Transit had wanted to go school,” said trustee Chuck around facilities can be of Livermore, nearly 100 with it this year, but agreed A breach of contract law- final resolution are likely Rogge. “The State hasn’t built. percent would say they want to step aside for Measure suit filed by five former to include lost salary, lost given the Charter School the BART carries more than BART to Livermore. But B1. Lawrence Livermore Na- benefits and lost retirement oversight it needs. In fact, 400,000 riders per day cur- there was poor public educa- Haggerty said that when tional Laboratory employees credits, with a total value many charter schools have rently. The single biggest day tion about the connectivity B1 does go to the ballot who were laid off in 2008 of hundreds of thousands been impacted by the lack of was Oct. 31, the day of the between B1 and BART to again, it will have the same will proceed to trial in Alam- of dollars or more, he esti- oversight from the State.” San Francisco Giants World Livermore," said McPart- projects that were promised eda County Superior Court mated. The TLVC Board intends Series celebration parade in land. this year. He said the one in Oakland in February. Punitive damages and to vote on the amended downtown San Francisco. "I think people who thing missing will be the "in The breach of contract attorneys fees are not per- MOU at its meeting on That drew 568,000 riders, wanted BART needed to perpetuity" clause. It's clear suit is a simplified version mitted in breach-of-contract Thursday, Nov. 29. A copy and was a preview of things talk together. The support that voters want to be con- of one that was filed in 2009 suits, he said. On the other of the amended MOU is to come. By 2025, BART of agencies and supportive sulted every 20 or 30 years following formal complaints hand, they can be part of age available on the District’s expects to have 560,000 stakeholders should have about what is on the project by 130 of 440 employees discrimination cases. He website at www.livermore- riders daily, after proposed been working together col- list, as they have been by the who were laid off in 2008. anticipates that an eventual schools.com. The original complaint also resolution of the age dis- alleged that the Laboratory crimination case could cost committed age discrimina- “millions of dollars.” tion violations in the lay- He said that the Labora- offs. tory had “done all it can to Judge Robert Freedman delay” a resolution of the (Opinions voiced in let- game BOOMING through lion tax-dollars have been way also. Grade separate, separated the complaint case, and that it is “high ters published in Mailbox my house. squandered. multitrack, and fence this UP into two parts and chose time” for it to be “held ac- are those of the author and Quite frankly, this is not An October 6, 2012 New line in stages. five of the 130 plaintiffs to countable. These people do not necessarily reflect acceptable. I urge you to re- York Times editorial notes Add an intermodal trans- go to trial on the breach of have been waiting a long the opinion of The Inde- spect the surrounding com- “…experiments conducted fer station in Oakland, where contract issue alone. time.” pendent. Letter Policy: The munity that supports Liver- so far have made it clear that BART crosses over the UP No decision has been The Laboratory’s view Independent will not publish more High. Please moderate the scientists in charge do near I-880 and 7th Street. made about how or when is that it “has always con- anonymous letters, nor will the volume. not fully understand how the (BART trains from there the age discrimination suit sidered its employees its it publish letters without process is working… Con- run every few minutes to will go to trial. However, a greatest asset and went to names. Abusive letters may NIF Ignition gress will need to look hard eight San Francisco and the pre-trial conference sched- great lengths to prevent be rejected or edited. Fre- Jo Ann Frisch at whether the [NIF] project many other Peninsula and uled for December 20 may this layoff.” In a statement, quent letter writers may have Livermore should be continued, or East Bay stations.) settle that as well as other the Lab noted that it be- publication of their letters At Livermore Lab’s Na- scrapped, or slowed to help Prioritize BART around procedural questions. lieves it “followed all federal delayed. Letters should be tional Ignition Facility, the reduce federal spending.” the Bay. Enlarge BART - or Randy Strauss, one of the guidelines, with concurrence submitted by e-mail to edit- countdown went: 3, 2, 1… NIF’s operating cost ex- form a new 5-County agency attorneys for the five going from” its federal sponsor, the [email protected].) ignition (not), and maybe ceeds $300 million a year. - to: Complete BART con- to trial in February, said National Nuclear Security never. Can we afford to continue struction now under way to that the firm he works for Administration of the U.S. Good Neighbors The date set for NIF ig- funding failure? Berryessa in San Jose; Re-do – Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso Department of Energy. David Hysom nition was September 30, planning for extending that of Oakland – is seeking to It declined further com- Livermore 2012. It didn’t happen, con- High Speed Rail line further to Santa Clara; restore economic loss for ment because the matter is I live in PalaSage, across tinuing a series of missed Robert S. Allen, BART and Plan to grade separate those laid off. Factors in any now in court. the street from Livermore ignition deadlines. Director (1974-1988) and convert Millbrae-Santa HS. I've lived here for sev- Now, some Lab scientists Drop talk of “Blended Clara Caltrain to BART. eral years, and understand are saying maybe by 2015 Rail” - HSR on Caltrain! A plan balanced among your HS has a lot of athletic/ ignition can be achieved. With 43 grade crossings and the five counties would also fundraising/ etc. events. I'd Other scientists say ignition many unprotected trackside extend BART to the Golden (INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.) like to ask you this: could at NIF is unlikely no matter station platforms, Caltrain Gate and Carquinez Bridges, Publisher: Joan Kinney Seppala you please moderate your how much time and money tracks are far too dangerous to Brentwood, and over the Associate Publisher: David T. Lowell Editor: Janet Armantrout loudspeakers? are thrown at the project. for high speed trains. Altamont. It's now 9:30 Friday The Independent (USPS 300) is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing There have been over Better, safer, and much Adjusted for inflation and Company, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Mailed at Periodical Postage night, and I have to get up the five-county population, Prices at the Livermore Post Office and additional entry office: Pleasanton, CA 94566-9998. 1,000 experiments at NIF less costly: HSR from Santa The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www.independentnews.com to sign up early tomorrow for work. and, still, no ignition. Not Clara via Mulford to Oak- a bond issue like that for and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Independent, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550. I've closed all my windows even close. If you count the land and Sacramento, the BART in 1962 per capita and my condo is very well Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700 money for NIF construction route long used by Amtrak would raise about $16 bil- during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212. insulated, but I still hear lion today. Editorial information may be submitted by [email protected]. and related research and #11/14. Route CapCor this the announcer from your development, so far $8 bil- The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 - PAGE 5 PAGE 6 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 Now Is the Time to Prepare Projects for Science and Engineering Fair The Alameda County Sci- vate, parochial and public totaling close to $50,000. problem! E-mail ACSEF or tissues, rDNA, or those acsef.org ence and Engineering Fair school students in middle A grant from Lawrence alamedacountysef@gmail. working with continuation If there is a problem in (ACSEF) is getting ready and high school are invited Livermore National Secu- com or go to their website projects, lab grade chemi- meeting the deadline, please for the 2nd annual county- to participate in the upcom- rity, LLC, ACSEF makes for project resources http:// cals, potentially hazard- email the director Patti wide science fair for grades ing event to showcase their it possible to provide some www.acsef.org . ous devices or activities Carothers at alamedacounty 6-12 students in Alameda STEM related projects. funding for project materi- Two registration and ap- Students need to register [email protected]. County. The fair will be held Recognition for win- als for Title 1 schools and plication deadlines are com- online and send their project 2) Regular online reg- Sat., March 9 at the Alam- ners includes prize money, students on free or reduced ing up. application proposal to AC- istration and application eda County Fairgrounds in scholarships, internships, lunch programs. Contact the 1) Early registration and SEF for a pre-experimental deadline for project types Pleasanton. advancement to additional fair director for details. application for projects us- safety check – by December not dealing with those items Alameda County based state, national and interna- D o n ’ t h a v e a ing: Microbes, Human or 1st. Applications available mentioned previously is home schooled, charter, pri- tional fairs and other awards p r o j e c t i d e a ? N o Vertebrate Animal subjects on our website http://www. January 28, 2013.

NARAC to More Quickly Predict Haz Mat Releases The National Nuclear Livermore National Labo- material releases to be com- and analysis to emergency tragic earthquake and tsu- capability.” Security Administration ratory (LLNL) National At- pleted approximately 50 managers and decision mak- nami in Japan. NARAC creates maps (NNSA) recently spon- mospheric Release Advisory times faster than with the ers throughout the country. “I am very pleased to predicting the deposition of sored the installation of a Center (NARAC). This new previous cluster. These predictions inform ac- announce the completion hazardous materials using 336-processor computing cluster allows consequences NARAC provides atmo- tions that may be warranted of important hardware up- current or forecast weather cluster at the Lawrence predictions for hazardous spheric modeling predictions to protect the public and the grades to the NARAC com- conditions and complex environment in the event of puting cluster,” said Joseph atmospheric transport and a hazardous release. Krol, Associate Administra- dispersion models, and re- tor for Emergency Opera- fines initial predictions using Potential accident sce- tions. “Lessons learned from field measurement data. For narios include releases from the Fukushima response example, a 3-D calcula- nuclear power plants as highlighted the importance tion of radioactive material well as transport and fallout of providing rapid atmo- transported from Japan to from nuclear detonations or spheric modeling products the U.S. that required almost radiological dispersal de- to a variety of users, from re- three hours of computer time vices. In 2011, NARAC was sponders in Japan, to senior can now be run in less than extensively utilized by the level policy makers in D.C. three minutes. U.S. government to model This strategic investment Additional software releases from the damaged will allow us to continue to modifications are planned Fukushima Daiichi nuclear address all of their needs and to provide results even faster power plant following the advance this vital national in the future.

Bug Repellent for Supercomputers Proves to Be Effective Lawrence Livermore Na- bugs in applications as well computer scientist in Liver- tional Laboratory (LLNL) as defects in system software more Computing. Photo - Doug Jorgensen researchers have used the and hardware have manifest- Based on this finding, a Mrs. Claus is pictured last year at Ravenswood Victorian festivities. This year's event is Stack Trace Analysis Tool ed themselves as failures in system expert took a close set for Dec. 9. For information, see story on LARPD holiday events. (STAT), a highly scalable, applications. It is important look at the compute core on lightweight tool to debug a to quickly diagnose errors which this rank process was program running more than so they can be reported to running and discovered a one million MPI processes experts who can analyze hardware defect. “Replac- LARPD Has Variety of Holiday on the IBM Blue Gene/Q them in detail and ultimately ing the component suddenly (BGQ)-based Sequoia su- solve the problem. got the entire Sequoia sys- Events on the Calendar percomputer. “STAT has been indis- tem back to life,” Ahn said. The debugging tool is pensable in this capacity, “Putting this exercise into The Livermore Area Rec- the season. There will be p.m. at the Robert Livermore a significant milestone in helping the multi-disciplined perspective, this error was reation and Park District. entertainment throughout Community Center on a LLNL’s multi-year collabo- integration team keep pace due to a defect in a tiny hard- December offers a mix of the afternoon, buggy rides, first-come, first-served basis. ration with the University of with the aggressive system ware unit, the decrementor, Holiday Happenings for all drinks and desserts for sale, Sign-ups will continue after Wisconsin (UW), Madison scale-up schedule,” said of a single hardware thread ages to enjoy. visits with St. Nicholas and Dec. 3 until slots are full. and the University of New LLNL computer scientist out of a total of 4.7 million • Breakfast with Santa at a gift shop. This event is • Seniors 55 and up and Mexico (UNM) to ensure Greg Lee. hardware threads. I felt it 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at done in conjunction with Ra- their families are invited to supercomputers run more “While testing a subsys- was like finding a needle the Robert Livermore Com- venswood Progress League. attend the Holiday Luncheon efficiently. tem of Blue/Gene Q, my in a haystack over a coffee munity Center, 4444 East Ravenswood is located at at noon on Friday, Dec. 14, Playing a significant role test program consistently break.” Ave. This event is open to 2647 Arroyo Road. For more with special entertainment in scaling up the Sequoia failed only when scaled to Sequoia delivers 20 pet- adults with children ages details, call 925-443-0238. from the Livermore High supercomputer, STAT, a 1,179,648 MPI processes. aflops of peak power and 10 and younger. Families • Santa Claus can make Chamber Chorale. Wear fes- 2011 R&D 100 Award win- Although the test program was ranked No. 1 in June can enjoy a delicious pan- a personal appearance at a tive colors, make a holiday ner, has helped both early was simple, the sheer scale of this year’s TOP500 list. cake breakfast, and children home, office or party with card and enjoy a relaxing access users and system at which this program ran It is currently ranked No. 2, will have a chance to sit on Santa Visits. The jolly, red- lunch of spiral ham, au gra- integrators quickly isolate a made debugging efforts behind Oak ridge National Santa’s lap and make a holi- suited man himself is avail- tin potatoes, green salad, wide range of errors, includ- highly challenging. But Laboratory’s Titan. day craft. Pre-registration is able for 10-minute visits dessert and beverage. The ing particularly perplexing when I applied STAT, it The team is actively pur- required – no tickets will be between 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. luncheon is $8 per person, issues that only manifested quickly revealed that one suing further optimization sold at the door. Tickets are Friday, Dec. 21; Saturday, and tickets must be pur- at extremely large scales up particular rank process was of STAT technologies and $10 per person; everyone Dec. 22; and Sunday, Dec. chased in advance by 2 p.m. to 1,179,648 compute cores. consistently stuck in a sys- is exploring commercializa- needs a ticket. 23. Packages may be left Thursday, Dec. 6. Tickets During the Sequoia scale-up, tem call,” said Dong Ahn, a tion strategies. • Victorian Yuletide at on the porch for Santa to are available at the Senior Ravenswood Historic Site bring in and deliver directly Services office at the Rob- from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, to children. Visits are $45 ert Livermore Community Dec. 9. This free event opens to Livermore addresses. Center. For details, call 925- the 1890s home for visitors Registration starts Monday, 373-5760. Pleasanton Schools Catch Up, to see all decked out for Dec. 3, from 5:30 to 6:30 • Accomplish some gift- buying errands with the Holiday Shopping Fund- Meet English Learner Goals raiser Boutique that benefits The Pleasanton school on the English Language cent of them reaching pro- LARPD’s Senior Services. district has met all of the Development Test was for ficiency. The boutique features jew- AMAOs (Annual Measur- 56 percent of all ELs to For those in the district ers Evaluations will be held December elry, candles, glass and wire able Achievement Objec- make the required progress. more than five years, the Pleasanton Rage 8-9, 2012, for all players in grades 3-8. works and more, plus free Pleasanton Rage U10 Black won No prior experience required. Exact tives) for English Learners Some 73 percent achieved goal was 45 percent. The their division in the Nor Cal Premier times and location are to be determined gift wrapping. It will run in the district. that one-year goal. The Cali- achievement was 56 per- Soccer League state cup. Defeating and will be published on the PGSL from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, cent. their opponent on Saturday by a 3 website (www.pleasantonsoftball. In previous years, not fornia English Language - 0 score, they continued to play on org). Remember to register by Decem- Dec. 6, at the Robert Liver- all of the goals were met, Development Test (CELDT) The third goal is for ELs Sunday against the Piedmont Purple ber 1, 2012 to avoid the late fee. more Community Center. Comets. The game kept spectators in said superintendent Parvin increases the success of to meet their Annual Yearly perpetual suspense until Rage Black • The Holiday Basket- Ahmadi. school districts. Progress (AYP) targets for connected passes to score in the last LGSA Registration: Livermore ball Tournament is open to few minutes of the game. Final Girls Softball Association welcomes This year, the district Two other tests are also the No Child Left Behind score 1 - 0. all Livermore girls aged 5-18 to reg- youth in third through sixth required. One involves Act in both English Lan- ister for the Spring 2013 Recreational surpassed required goals in season. No experience necessary. grades. Teams of boys and all three required tests. The CELDT for students who guage Arts and math. The Bocce Kits for Rent Register online at www.Livermore- girls can sign up for $225 a state Department of Educa- have been in the district less ELs met those targets. The Livermore Area Recreation GirlsSoftball.org or check the web team to play in the double and Park District is making bocce ball site for the time and location of our tion confirmed the results than five years. The second “I’m very proud of our kits available for rent to the public. next walk-in registration event. Email gymnasium at the Commu- to the district earlier this test is goven to those who teachers, students, and prin- Bocce ball kits can be checked out registration@LivermoreGirlsSoftball. nity Center. Third and fourth cipals for working so hard for a week at a time from the Robert org or call 925-556-5259 for more month. have been present more than Livermore Community Center. The information. Register by December grades will play Dec. 14, 15 Districts are required five years. the last couple of years, 31 to avoid a late fee. kits are available at the front counter and 17; fifth and sixth grades to ensure that all English For those present less especially this last year, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday will play Dec. 18 to 20. Each Learners (ELs) gain one lev- than five years, the require- to make sure our English through Friday. LNLL Registration participant receives a T-shirt. Rental for one week is $20, plus Livermore National Little League el of proficiency in learning ment is 20 percent at profi- Learners are proficient, and a $40 refundable deposit by credit registration will be held on Dec. 12th at Spectator admission is $3 for English each year. Typically, ciency. Pleasanton students make the required growth,” card or cash – a total of $60. The $40 Mountain Mikes Pizza on 1st St from adults; free for those under said Ahmadi. deposit is refundable if equipment is 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. a non-native speaker can exceeded that with 33 per- returned in good condition. Kits are 18; snack bar will be open. learn sufficient oral English rented on a first-come, first-served To register, contact Mike Sa basis; reservations are not available LHS Soccer Camp in a year or two. Mastering in advance. Rental of a bocce ball kit Livermore High School Girls’ at 925-373-5733 or msa@ writting in English is more Soccer Program invites boys and does not guarantee a bocce ball court larpd.dst.ca.us. likely to take five to seven will be available. girls ages 6-14 to participate in a soc- cer camp on Saturday, December 1, • There’s another oppor- years, said Ahmadi. The Robert Livermore Communi- 2012 at the Livermore High School tunity to get into the holiday ty Center is located at 4444 East Ave., Football/Soccer Field. Price of camp The goals set for the dis- Livermore. Bothwell Park is located at is $40 and includes a T-shirt. spirit – receive a personal trict concerning achievement 2466 Eighth St., Livermore. For more This camp promotes soccer devel- message from the North Pole information, call 925-373-5700. opment through warm up and technical drills as well as fun games to increase with Letters from Santa. skill and understanding of the game in Cost is $3.50 per letter, and Girls Softball an enjoyable and positive atmosphere. PGSL Registration: 2013 Regis- Camp will begin at 10:30a.m., end at applications are available tration is now open for all divisions in 2:00p.m. and will be run by the Senior online or at the LARPD of- the Pleasanton Phantom Girls Softball Varsity players with the support of the League. All girls in grades K-12 living high school Varsity, JV, and Freshman fice starting Dec. 1. Deadline in Pleasanton, Dublin and Sunol are coaches. to request a letter is noon on eligible to play. Two ways to register: At 5:00p.m., the LHS Girls’ 1) Online - visit our website at www. Varsity Soccer team will play against Dec. 16. pleasantonsoftball.org; 2) By check & Dublin High School. All participants For more information or postal mail - Download a registration are invited to return to LHS and to register for the Holiday form on the league website and mail cheer on the players that coached to PGSL, P.O. Box 911, Pleasanton, the camp. Happenings, call 925-373- CA 94566. For more information or Go to www.cowboyboosters.org 5700 or visit www.larpd. questions, email Christine Tanis at for more information and participa- [email protected]. tion forms. dst.ca.us. PGSL Player Evaluations: Play-

The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 - PAGE 7

Holiday Faire purchased at the event for Registration is required nity to have a measurable through March 2013, in the Winter Camp The City of Dublin is $5, and includes a jingle-bell for this event. To register impact on the businesses in Storytime Room. The Tri-Valley YMCA preparing for the holiday wagon ride, holiday craft please contact Youth Ser- our downtown.” On the first club meeting, will hold winter camp for season with the Holiday making, and tours of the vices at (925) 373-5504. A Cash Mob is like a Mr. Hamilton will present K-12th graders. Faire at the Heritage Park Murray Schoolhouse and For more information con- Flash Mob, but instead of several books for nomina- Two sessions are planned and Museums on Saturday, Kolb House Museums. tact Sandy at 925-373-5500 singing, dancing or rioting, tion. Book club participants with crazy crafts, snowball December 1 from 12 p.m. to The Holiday Faire is a ext. 5583, or consult the Cash Mobbers join together will decide which book to fights, the winter Olympics, 5 p.m. The event will offer program of the City of Dub- Library’s website: www. and each spend $20 (or read as a group. Each par- field trips and more. families a festive afternoon lin’s Parks and Community livermorelibrary.net. more!) at a local business. ticipant will obtain a copy The first session is Dec. full of holiday cheer. Services Department. For Anyone interested in par- of the chosen book and then 26, 27 and 28; the second on Old St. Nick will arrive on more information, call (925) Cash Mobs in ticipating in the Cash Mob read it. January 2, 3 and 4. Hours are a jingle-bell wagon promptly 556-4500. Pleasanton should meet PDA staff mem- Registration is required. 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 12:00 p.m. Families will Downtown Pleasanton’s bers in front of the Museum To register for this pro- The camp will be held have the opportunity to visit Duct Tape Crafts new shopping initiative, on Main (603 Main Street) at gram or for more infor- at 6693 Sierra Lane #F, with St. Nick and take pho- Duct tape crafts for Cash Mobs, will return on 6 p.m. on the third Wednes- mation, please contact the Dublin. tos throughout the day. tweens and teens will be January 16 and will continue day of the month. The PDA Youth Services Desk at 373- For registration infor- Visitors will experience a offered on Wednesday, De- throughout 2013 at 6 p.m. on will then announce the busi- 5504, or visit the Library’s mation, go to www.trival- rustic holiday outing while cember 5, 2012 at the Liver- the third Wednesday of each ness selected by random website located at www. leyymca.org. shopping for handmade gifts more Library. month. In the new year, all draw for the Cash Mob. livermorelibrary.net. and making traditional holi- Livermore tweens and Cash Mob participants will For more information day crafts. The Merrie Olde teens in grades 3 through 8 be entered into a monthly please visit the PDA’s Face- Christmas Carolers, dressed are invited to make Holly drawing to win downtown book page or call the PDA at in Victorian costume, will Jolly Duct Tape Crafts for gift cards, accepted at more (925) 484-2199. perform traditional carols the holidays. This free pro- than 100 downtown busi- A Crime Prevention Seminar to throughout the park. gram runs from 3:00pm to nesses. Book Club for Kids Be Presented at Hindu Temple Guests are also encour- 4:30pm in the Storytime Cash Mobs are popping The Livermore Public aged to tour the 1910 Kolb Room of the Civic Center up throughout the coun- Library invites second and The Hindu Community Event Hall, Shiva-Vishnu House which will be deco- Library, 1188 South Liver- try as a way to encourage third graders to join Mr. and Cultural Center will host Temple, 1232 Arrowhead rated for “A Farm Christmas more Avenue, Livermore. consumers to shop at lo- Jonathan Hamilton for an a crime prevention seminar Avenue. Morning” and the 1850’s Participants will make cal, independently-owned afternoon of reading, book presented by the Livermore For more information Murray Schoolhouse. bracelets, rings, wallets and retail establishments and discussion and fun at the Police Department from 1 to please contact Suman Jain General admission to much more with a variety of thereby strengthen the lo- Civic Center Library, 1188 3 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 8. at [email protected] Heritage Park and the Holi- colorful seasonal duct tape. cal economy. Laura Olson, South Livermore Avenue, The information will cov- or call the temple at 925- day Faire is free. The Faire The library supplies the in- Executive Director of the Livermore. This free book er general, personal, vehicle 449-6255. Information can includes both free and paid struction, duct tape and gift Pleasanton Downtown As- club will meet from 4:00pm and residential safety. be found at www.livermore- activities. Wristbands for wrap, participants supply sociation, said “Cash Mobs to 5:00pm, the second The presentation will temple.org the Faire activities can be imagination. will give us all an opportu- Wednesday of each month take place at the Temple PAGE 8 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012

(continuedDINNERS from page one) Livermore is unusual in be- 64 percent; statewide it is participate. They are able ing a relatively small district, 69 percent, said the CFPA. to do so, because the bell with 12,664 students, to Livermore's participation schedules are such that there institute the dinner program. rate is 74 percent of the is a very short period in the However, the district wanted total 3266 students eligible, morning where students can to respond to the perceived according to figures for the take a break and eat. need. Many students are in 2010-11 school year. Pleas- There is no such flex- after-school programs, and anton listed 76 percent lunch ibility in the elementary are present until 6 p.m., so participation out of 1000 school schedule. However, it's important to feed them eligible students. the district is looking at ways then, too, said Lee. Statistics for the break- to see what might be done. Some students might not fast program were much Currently, if there are hungry find a dinner at home, added lower. Livermore's partici- children at breakfast time, Lee. "It's a meal they really pation rate was 11 percent. the office staff and principals need, so they can concen- Pleasanton's was 19 percent. know who they are. Break- trate on their studies, and That compares to a 22 per- fast bars, milk and fruit are not worry about how mom cent average for the county available, said Ahamdi. or dad will get food into the and 30 percent for the state. Lee said there are prac- kitchen." CNFA is urging school tical constraints that keep The federal government, districts to increase their breakfast participation low. through the USDA, sets involvement in the breakfast Some students are slow standards on eligibility for program. Not only is it an to wake up, and they skip free and reduced lunches. important meal, but districts breakfast. By the time the For a free meal for some- are leaving U.S. Department school day is underway, they one from a family of four, of Agriculture money on the are hungry, but it's too late the cutoff line is a family table, said Markell Lewis, for a formal breakfast. Photo - Doug Jorgensen income of $29,965. For a nutrition policy advocate at Junction Avenue is a K- The sun shining through vines created a pattern of shadow and light. reduced lunch, it is $42,643, CFPA. 8 school. The schedule is which is 185 percent of the CFPA estimated that flexible enough to offer poverty line as set by the Livermore could pick up as breakfast at that site. How- federal government. The much as $637,000 for break- ever, the PTA at another site standard applies to all 48 fasts, with full participation. asked Lee to start a breakfast RETIREES contiguous states. Pleasanton would be able to program there. It started off (continued from page one) BREAKFASTS LAG receive $145,000 more. well, but tapered off, despite motion to have that suit BEHIND LUNCHES However, there are blocks the fact that parents helped The three-judge panel has The Retirees Association The participation rate in in the way of obtaining the with the publicity. dismissed. Alameda County 90 days to render its final is independent of the retiree Livermore and Pleasanton money. The subsidies of- Lee tries to promote Superior Court judge Frank decision. group that organized to sue in the free and reduced price fered by the USDA may meals and good nutrition Roesch ruled in favor of the After the hearing, Joe UC over health care. lunch program is higher than cover food cost, but they with information posted in dismissal motion last year, Requa, head of the retir- Beyond retiree health the county and state averag- don't pay for the overhead the cafeteria. The four basic but the retirees appealed. ees group, commented in care plans, the suit against es, according to the Califor- or labor, said both Lee and food groups make up each The appeal was heard an email that the justices UC also parallels some other nia Food Policy Advocates Pleasanton superintendent meal. That's a condition by a three-justice panel led seemed “well prepared and legal actions in the public (CFPA), which maintains Parvin Ahmadi. for school districts now if by Barbara Jones. Two understood the issues.” His sector. Just one year ago, offices in Oakland and Los Pleasanton's breakfast they expect to receive full of the three justices said “best guess” is that the UC in a case involving Orange Angeles. participation statistics reflect reimbursement on free and that Roesch erred in agree- The countywide average the fact that only the high reduced lunches. motion for dismissal, called a County retirees, the Califor- for subsidized lunches is schools and middle schools ing with the University’s demurrer, will be rejected. nia Supreme Court ruled that motion. They also found Assuming he is correct, an implicit contract may ex- arguments set forth by Jo- the legal proceeding then en- ist requiring a public agency Springtown Residents Suggesting seph Quinn, the contract ters the “discovery” phase, to continue providing ben- attorney representing UC, in which the University efits to its retirees even when to be unjustified and at times may be required to search its there is no written document Sound Wall for New Toyota Dealer annoying, according to news files and turn over records explicitly promising the A few residents of Creek- selling in the $200,000s, said Tanner. reports from the hearing. bearing on retiree claims benefits. side Villas in Springtown they said. Peterson said, "I can't A particular complaint have watched the land being of an implicit contract to The ruling encouraged Runsvold doesn't want to picture graffiti happening was that Quinn was try- provide health benefits in attorneys for the Livermore cleared for a new Toyota see values plummet further. there. When you get closer dealership just south of them ing to verify and reinforce retirement. retirees to believe that their He said the homeowners to I-580 (near north Vasco factual details of the case on North Vasco Road along have no control over the Road) there is a sound wall. At stake for Livermore suit had an increased chance Interstate 580. There is a economy, but can do some- There is nothing on either at an inappropriate stage Lab retirees is the quality of of success. park located just opposite thing about the park. How- side to keep kids from spray in the legal proceedings. health care under the Lab- An attorney for the Or- the dealership. ever, it's not clear exactly painting there." They reminded him that the oratory’s present, for-profit ange County retiree case, They say they might want what might be done. The city dealt with the standard of review at the management system, which Ernest Galvan, was also to see construction of a Runsvold said he would objections of residents when demurrer stage does not call many retirees have said they optimistic about the retiree sound wall to screen off their prefer a sound wall. Peter- it set conditions on the deal- for fact-finding. find more complicated, less group's chances. He told one properties and the park from son agrees with him. They ership property, said Spence. reliable and in many cases reporter that the Lab retirees noise and lights from the are aware that homeowners It required that the site de- operation. more expensive than UC’s. should be able to prove that earlier rejected a sound wall, sign would use the buildings While some retirees pay the UC Regents intended to H o m e o w n e r R o g e r because it could become themselves as a screen from Runsvold acknowledges it covered with graffiti or suf- I-580 noise and views. It re- no more than before, Requa provide health benefits for may be too late to change has said that his medical pre- them in retirement. fer other vandalism. Neither quired Toyota to reorient the (continuedFUNDS from page one) things. However, he and a thinks that graffiti would service building so the doors miums have risen from $75 The cost of continuing few neighbors that he con- necessarily be a problem at did not face the condos. outside. That money goes to nearly $600 per month. the suit remains a challenge tacted via e-mail want to that location. The city also set rules about into a county pool. Pleasan- In addition, UC was for the retirees. The appeal explore the possibilities. Another homeowner, lights, and loudspeakers. widely recognized as a be- reported added $75,000 Runsvold lives in the ton received $80,000. Rob Tanner, said he is not so To screen the site from Councilmember Jerry nign employer that looked in legal fees on top of a middle of the condominium sure which would be a good homes and to deal with development, so it's not a Thorne suggested that the out for its employees even $150,000 payment already way to go. Tanner, Runsvold concern about graffiti on a city be aware of the impact after retirement. By con- spent on the case. The group matter of having his view af- and Peterson and a fourth sound wall, the city estab- fected by the Toyota agency. the new Paragon Outlets in trast, many retirees say they has raised tens of thousands neighbor met with Liver- lished a requirement for a Livermore is having on sales However, he is concerned more planning manager Paul two-foot wall, with four feet find the Laboratory’s present of dollars to support legal ac- that without good screen- Spence at the site on the day of wrought iron on top of tax income. management to be indiffer- tion to date, but it will soon ing, property values on the before Thanksgiving. it. Trees would be planted Wagner said, "We are ent and at times hostile to need more. In an email, whole development could Tanner said that he along the line, said Spence. especially concerned about their interests. Requa announced a new go down. learned then about the dis- Runsvold acknowledged Paragon. We are starting to For example, a Labora- fund-raising drive. The values already have cussions in 2008 concern- that, but said he thought it look at the impact." tory employee organization Donations may be made gone down, because of the ing a sound wall and the would take 10 years for the Pleasanton has a healthy threatened to punish the to: UCLRG Legal Defense economy's impact on ho- graffiti potential. "If there trees to be mature enough reserve, reported Wagner. Retirees Association by seiz- Fund, 1141 Xavier Way, meowners, said Runsvold. were graffiti, it's a valid for screening. A taller wall The total is over $25 million He and a neighbor, Rob ing its funds last year when Livermore 94550. UCLRG, concern. I don't particu- would be much better, he with $8.9 million set aside the Association took active for University of California Peterson, who does have a larly know (which is better). said. for economic uncertainty steps to learn more about Livermore Retiree Group, view of the car lot area, said What would ultimately help Meanwhile, both Spence and just over $11 million in a that earlier prices for units the value of the homes in the and Runsvold will get in temporary recession reserve. health plan changes and to is a non-profit organization in their development typi- long run is the question," touch with the dealership's The remaining funds are un- counsel distant or disabled recognized by the IRS, so cally were around $400,000 said Tanner. representative to see what assigned or in a reserve for retirees. donations are tax deduct- or $500,000, depending on "Graffiti is something the might be done. Any action golf debt service payments. ible. house size. Now some are city would be responsible of would be voluntary on the taking care of as it happens," part of the dealer. Pleasanton Sets Definitions for Ridgeline Protections The Pleasanton City in existance as of January weighted incremental slope 2008. The council agreed to Council approved definitions 1, 2007. measurement, which would do so. for provisions in Measure PP Not mentioned in the provide an average slope The council agreed with to provide clearer direction measure were the fate of over the property. the staff option that deter- for future development pro- roads and streets and of man- The method to determine mined that streets and/or posals this week. made slopes of 25 percent or where to measure the end of roads and their attendant The vote was unani- greater. The question regard- a ridge in order to determine infrastructure are structures mous. ing roads was whether they the 100 vertical foot distance in that they are physical im- Pleasanton voters ap- counted as structures. The would be dictated by where provements on the property proved Measure PP in No- issue of man-made slopes a ridge ends. The council intended to accommodate vember 2008. Under the was not addressed in the chose to define the end of development and are cov- measure, no grading to con- measure. a ridge and where to begin ered by Measure PP. struct residential or com- The council approved a measuring the 100 foot set- Man-made slopes are mercial structures could method to determine how back as when it starts to go not exempt from Measure occur on hillside slopes 25% to measure the steepness down. PP provisions. However, a or greater, or within 200 ver- of slopes. The 25-percent Speakers pointed out that review of proposals would tical feet of a ridgeline. The slope will be calculated as a neither roads nor man-made be permitted on a case-by- staff provided definitions specific value based on the slopes are specifically ex- case basis. One example of a on what constitutes a slope distance between contour empted from adhering to the property that may be exempt of 25 percent and how they lines on a topographic map. provisions in the measure. is located at the corner of are to be measured. There The contour lines will be Kay Ayala one of the Dublin Canyon Road and is also a definition of where two feet apart. The steep- sponsors of Measure PP said Foothill Road where the measurements would end ness of a slope is indicated that she thought the staff had slopes were created when when determining the 100 by the spacing of circuit done a good job in making the road was widened. vertical distance. lines. Lines closer together its recommendations. She Staff will come back at Exempt from the policies indicate a steeper slope. One asked for the inclusion of a future meeting with an are housing developments of difference from staff recom- a provision to exempt ap- ordinance that will be ad- 10 or fewer housing units on mendation was the wording provals of PUDs and specific opted as part of the city's a single property that was that prohibits the use of plans approved prior to Nov. zoning code. The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 - PAGE 9 Foundation Has Plans for Fundraising Event in 2013 Ragin’ Cajun is the San Palm Event Center, 1184 which provides cancer pa- covered by insurance. Tick- sorship information or can provides funds so that can- Francisco East Bay’s Mardi Vineyard Avenue, Pleas- tients in the East Bay Tri- ets are available online at donate a prize for the auc- cer patients can experience Gras event of the year. En- anton. Valley area with financial as- http://www.healingtherapies tion. the immediate benefit of joy music, dancing, dinner, Ragin’ Cajun is the an- sistance for complementary foundation.org or by calling The Sandra J. Wing Heal- complementary therapies beads, live auctions, and nual fundraiser event for healing services during the (866) 862-7270. ing Therapies Foundation to help alleviate the side more on Friday, March 8, the Sandra J Wing Heal- course of their chemo and/or Please contact the Foun- is a 100% volunteer orga- effects caused by cancer 2013, 6:30 to 11 p.m. at the ing Therapies Foundation, radiation therapy that are not dation if interested in spon- nization. The Foundation treatments.

Nicholas James Pleasanton, CA. After retir- son, Steven Dwight Harrison Lacerial C. Pearson daughters, Barbara Anne mother to Michael (Ann) Chakakis ing with 36 years at AT&T, of Federal Heights, CO; Resident of Livermore Smith of Texas, and Tash- and Joseph Lanza. Loving Nicholas James Cha-ka- Fred became the book store daughter and son-in-law, Sept. 30, 1929-Nov. 20, 2012 enia Pearson of Livermore, grandmother to Loren John- kis was born on December manager at Blackhawk Au- Marilyn Mihaly and Ed- Lacerial C. Pearson California; grandchildren: son, Alyssa and Kayla Lanza 6, 1923 in Hanna, Wyoming. tomotive Museum. ward Mihaly of Seattle, WA; (fondly known to family and Larecha Duncan, Robert L. & Nathaniel Marlin; great He was He was preceded in death daughter and son-in-law, Su- friends as Huss, Pearson, and Pearson, Jr., Emil J. Brown; grandmother to Daniella the son by his father, Dean Zimmer- san Kay Harrison and John LC) was four brothers: Abraham Marie Johnson; beloved sis- of Greek man. Fred is survived by his Buginas of Modesto, CA; born on Johnson, James Johnson ter to Shirley Giudice. i m m i - wife, Artie of Livermore, and daughter and son-in-law, Septem- and Alex Johnson of Hous- Friends and family are g r a n t s CA; mother, Helen Zim- Sally Ann Schleiger and ber 30, ton, Texas; Andrew John- welcome to come and visit J a m e s merman of Littleton, CO; Steve Schleiger of Tracy, 1929 to son of Pensacola, Florida; with Mary on Thursday, a n d daughter, Angela (Mark) CA. She is also survived by Benja- and five sisters: Fauntilla November 29, 2012 from Athena Drouhard, Mead, CO; step- nine grandchildren and four min H. Pearson-Miller of Boynton, 10-11am, with a Chapel (Kotsi- sons, Tom Denny (Tina), TX, great grandchildren. Pearson Oklahoma, Delphia (Daisy) Blessing Service at 11AM f a k i s ) Scott Hassan (Kelly), (NE); There will be a private and An- Pearson-Presley of San Jose, at Callaghan Mortuary 3833 Tsakak- sisters, Gwen Gustafson memorial. In lieu of flow- nie Mae California, Corene Pearson- East Ave, Livermore. Burial is Nick (Ken), Aurora, CO, Mitzi ers, please send donations MacAr- Cato of Henderson, Nevada, to follow at Memory Gar- graduated from Reliance Stambaugh (Leo), Littleton, to Community Hospice, t h u r - Bernice Johnson-Williams dens Cemetery 3873 East High School in Reliance, CO; ten grandchildren, five 4368 Spyers Way, Modesto, Pearson in Theodore, Ala- of Houston, Texas and Isa- Ave, Livermore. Wyoming in 1940. great grandkids, many niec- CA, 95356 or a charity of bama. He was the oldest of bel Johnson-Williams of In lieu of flowers the He was a veteran of es/nephews, cousins, plus a choice. 12 siblings. As little boys, Pensacola, Florida. He also family respectfully requests Lacerial and his brother, World War II serving as a multitude of friends. leaves many nieces, neph- memorial donations in Frank aspired to be a truck Chief Petty Officer in the Services will be held at Helen Lorraine Zaro ews, cousins and friends. Mary’s name be made to The driver and a mechanic. Us- US Navy assigned to the 2:00 p.m. Saturday, Dec 1, Resident of Livermore He was preceded in death by American Lung Association, ing kitchen chairs and boxes Atlantic theater from 1943- First Presbyterian Church, Helen Lorraine Zaro his wife of 47 years, Opal- American Lung Association from the cupboard, they 1946. In 1948 he received 1609 W. Littleton Blvd., passed away November 11, ine (Joni) Pearson; father, National Headquarters 1301 would often pretend to be his BS degree in Electrical Littleton, CO. In lieu of 2012 after a brief hospital Benjamin H. Pearson (who Pennsylvania Ave., NW, driving trucks as they played Engineering from the Uni- flowers, please donate to the stay. No funeral services left this earth just 2 months Suite 800. Washington DC around the house. They each th versity of Wyoming, and Cancer society or charity of were held per her request. shy of his 106 birthday); 20004. achieved their childhood as- worked briefly in the coal choice. H e l e n mother, Annie Mae. piration. Lacerial confessed mining industry. He was was born Funeral Services were Robert Henry Lucas his hope in Christ and was then called back to service Evan Gushue to George held on Wed., Nov. 28 at St. Robert Henry Lucas of baptized at the age of 14 at in the Korean War from Resident of Livermore and Lena Matthews Baptist Church, Livermore passed away on Mt. Zion Baptist Church in 1951-1952. May 20, 1990 - Nov. 14, 2012 Smith on final resting place at Rose- Nov. 4, 2012. He was born Pine Hollow near the town In 1954 he married Our beloved son, Evan November lawn Cemetery in Liver- on Oct. 20, 1950 in Chicago, of Checotah, Oklahoma. Clara Mazanakis, his wife Gushue, who was loved by 3, 1925. more, CA. ILL. He would lead his siblings of 59 years and in 1956 all and enjoyed music and She was Arrangements were by He attended Sunnyhills in song with the old hymn, they moved to Livermore, friendship, passed away on p r e d e - Callaghan Mortuary. High School in Fullerton, “Nobody Knows, Nobody California when Nick took November 14, 2012. ceased by CA and graduated from Cares,” singing “Nobody a position as an Electrical Evan is survived by his her hus- Ruth Holsen Granada High School in knows, nobody cares, my Engineer with the Lawrence father Craig Gushue, mother band of 39 Ruth Holsen passed away Livermore. He studied at heavy burden nobody shares, Livermore National Labora- Julianna Rowe, stepfather years, Angelo “Bumby” peacefully November 11, the San Francisco Culinary my only comfort, my only tory; he worked for 32 years Jeffrey Rowe, little brother Zaro, siblings Herman 2012 at ValleyCare Medical Academy and became a stay, Jesus walked by my at the Lab until his retire- Nathan Rowe, sisters Kellie Smith, Norman Smith and Center in Pleasanton. She chef. He worked at vari- side all the way.” He spent ment in 1987. In 1972, he Gushue and Olivia Rowe. Lois Borlandelli, and niece was surrounded by her fam- ous places until he became many of his teenage years in gained scientific notoriety Rest in Peace, Evan, we will Nancy Smith. She is sur- ily. She was 86 years old. the chef at the Holiday Inn Boynton, Oklahoma, where as the engineer in charge miss you very much and love vived by her daughter and Ruth was born June 23, in Livermore, then at the he attended high school. of an archeological project you very, very much. Good- son-in-law, Carol and Da- 1926 in Kewaunee, Wis- Holiday Inn in Oakland. He As a career Service Man under the direction of Dr. bye friend and son. vid Jensen, grandson Peter consin to Henry and Barbara later became a meat broker for 20 years in the US Army, Luis Alvarez in conjunc- Arrangements are by Cal- and his wife Allison, and Hunsader. She was one of for Valley Meat Company in Lacerial traveled the world. tion with the University of laghan Mortuary. great-grandchildren Alyssa, ten children. Modesto and then became a He received a “Purple Heart” California, Berkeley. This Ashley, and Emma, as well Ruth left her family’s project manager at the Alli- for his services in the Korean joint Egyptian-American Phyllis Marie Harrison as numerous nieces and farm when she married her ance Group in Dublin. War; and achieved a rank- project hoped to identify un- nephews from California husband Ken in 1956. They He is survived by his ing of Sergeant 1st discovered burial chambers and Montana. Class, moved to California in 1963 mother, Eleanor Lucas of in the Chephfren pyramid Helen graduated from receiving many awards and where they settled in Dan- Livermore, his aunt Jean in Giza, and was one of the San Ramon Valley High acknowledgments. While ville until Ken’s death last Gilbert, his sister Katie So- first to utilize computers for School in Danville. She in- in the military he joined the year. dermark, son Paul Lucas, archeological exploration. jured her left leg in an auto- Scottish Rights Masonic Ruth was an accom- grandchildren Krystal and Nick was an avid pinoch- mobile accident at the tender Organization. He was also plished seamstress and en- Rachael Lucas. He was pre- le player, dabbled in wine- age of three but was neither a Military Instructor at The joyed fashion, home deco- ceded in death by his father, making, and was a 65-year coddled by her mother nor School of the Americas in rating, cooking, gardening Henry Lucas. member of the Order of Elks Phyllis Marie Harrison, allowed to feel she was Panama. He received an and socializing at her fa- Family and friends are fraternal organization. a resident of Livermore for any different because of it. Honorable Discharge in vorite restaurants. She was invited to gather on Fri., Nick passed away on over 70 years, passed away She continued to shadow 1968. a very devoted member Dec. 14 services at 11 a.m. November 15, 2012. He November 8, 2012, at age her older brother Herman After retiring from the of St. Isidore’s Catholic at Holy Cross Lutheran was preceded in death by his 89. She was born on March throughout the hills, streams military, he worked as a Church and spent many Church, 1020 Mocho Street, wife, who died in January 17, 1923, in Pleasanton, CA. and creeks of Danville and Driver for the US Postal Ser- hours praying for others. Livermore. A reception will this year. He is survived by As a child, she moved to San Ramon, enjoying her vice in Oakland California, She is survived by her 4 chil- follow the service. his four daughters: Athena, Livermore with her parents, childhood. which led to his career as a dren and their spouses; sons Mary, Christine and Antonia Jack and Elvira Silva, where Helen moved to San long distance truck driver. Chad and Tom of Livermore, and their families that in- she went to Livermore High Francisco after graduation He traveled throughout the daughters Sue Ferguson of clude seven grandchildren, School, graduating in 1940. to attend Heald Business United States and Canada. Washington, and Lisa Fazzio and three great grandchil- Phyllis met and married School and quickly made He worked for several large of Castro Valley, 8 grand- dren. He was much loved. Herbert Harrison in 1938. lifetime friends with several trucking companies includ- children, 1 great-grandchild Memorial services were In 1942 Phyllis worked girls in the women’s resi- ing Mayflower and Global, and 5 brothers and sisters. Obituary/ held November 23, 2012 at at Cresta Blanca Winery. dence where she lived. She before establishing his own A service will be held at Memoriam the Greek Orthodox Church While Herb served two tours moved with her first hus- trucking company, Pearson 10:30 a.m. on Friday, No- of the Resurrection in Cas- of duty in Hawaii during band, Walter, to Livermore Trucking. vember 30 at St. Isidore’s Policies tro Valley. Funeral services WWII, Phyllis worked at in 1957, where she spent the He and his wife, Opaline Catholic Church (440 La the US Naval Hospital at rest of her life. She later met (Joni) Pearson (deceased), followed on November 24, Gonda Way, Danville). A Obituaries are published in 2012 at the church. Memori- Camp Parks from 1943 until and married Bumby. resided in Panama, Denver, gathering to celebrate her al donations can be made to it was decommissioned in Helen will be remem- Stockton, and Oakland be- life will follow across the The Independent at no charge. the Greek Orthodox Church 1946. Phyllis also had jobs bered as a good friend whose fore settling in Livermore, street at the church hall. There is a California in 1971. They of the Resurrection. at the Fuseworks and as a generosity extended to all small charge Arrangements are by meat wrapper at the origi- those around her. She was a enjoyed a long union to- gether and lived life to the Mary Agnes Lanza for photographs Callaghan Mortuary. nal Safeway store on First devoted mother and wife and Resident of Fremont Street. She completed her a terrific cook who will for- fullest. They enjoyed host- Dec. 24, 1941 - Nov. 21, 2012 in the obituaries. ing gatherings with friends Frederick L. working life at the Lawrence ever be remembered for her Long time resident of Livermore National Labora- delicious pies and cookies, and family. They also both Fremont, Mary Agnes Lanza Zimmerman as well as her home-canned adored their children and Memoriam ads can also 11/21/1943 - 11/11/2012 tory, retiring in 1990. passed away peacefully at Phyllis and Herb built jams and jellies. grandchildren. Lacerial en- the home of her youngest be placed in The Independent Fred lost his brief battle joyed fishing and also loved with cancer at the age of 68. their family home, next door Family and friends are in- son, Joseph Lanza on No- when families want to honor the vited to share their memories recreational driving and A car lover since an early to her parents, on Maple St. vember 21, 2012. Mary was memories of their loved ones. in 1950. They built the block of Helen at a celebration at taking his family on out- born to Michael and Loretta age, he was a president of ings around town and long There is a charge the Danville Dukes and walls together and Phyllis her home on Friday, Novem- Aleman on December 24, loved to tell stories of their ber 30, 2012, from 10 a.m. to distance road trips. He had 1941. Mary was a home- for memoriam ads, based a member of the Goodguys. a love of life and family and Fred was born in Russell, endeavors. They enjoyed 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the maker. on the size of the ad. socializing with their friends family requests donations was responsible for many Mary was a devoted wife KS and graduated from relatives reuniting from sev- Russell High School in and when Herb became Post- to Shepherd’s Gate, 1660 to Karl Lanza for 44 years master, they looked forward Portola Avenue, Livermore, eral different states. until his death in 2009. She Please send an email to 1961. He is survived by sons, He worked with his dad to the monthly Postmasters’ CA 94551, or to a charity of was a devoted and loving meetings where Phyllis was the donor’s choice. Frank Augustus Pearson at the Sky Vu Drive-In while of Stockton, California, attending Fort Hays State well-known for her joke- Arrangements are by Cal- telling. Phyllis’ wonderful laghan Mortuary. Robert Lacerial Pearson college in Hays, Ks. Af- of Livermore, California; ter college Fred moved to jokes and sense of humor Denver and worked for will be a warm memory for Western Electric (AT&T). everyone who knew her. In 1985 he was relocated to Phyllis is survived by her PAGE 10 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 Students Took Part in Back to School Kick Off in Livermore More than 1,200 Liver- In addition to the Bell School, Transitional Kinder; Jack Turner, Junction K- more High School Cheer- Regina Brinker; winner for more Valley Joint Unified Choir, students from across Anna Van Essen, Michell 8 School, Seventh Grade; leaders, along with the the high school category was School District (LVJUSD) the District were showcased K-8 School, Transitional Christian Webb, East Av- Granada Drum Line, held Kaitlyn Baucke from Liver- employees ”kicked off” the during the event. Student art- Kinder; Ava Leseur, Smith enue Middle School, Sev- a cheer rally that celebrated more High School and the 2012-2013 school year on work was displayed through- Elementary School, Kin- enth Grade; Leah Bowser, a combined total of 12,508 community winner was Kate Oct. 3 with an event that out the room. There was a dergarten; Mendenhall Middle School, years of service completed Medina, teacher at Chris- brought employees from all performance of Tuimbe (Let Amber Belk, Jackson Eighth Grade; Kylie Miller, by District employees, in- tensen Middle School. levels and sites together for There Be Music) by the K-12 Avenue Elementary School, Livermore High School, cluding one with more than Board of Education Pres- the third year to focus for the Choir Ensemble directed by First Grade; Rodrigo Salazar Ninth Grade; Faith Bailey, 40 years of service. ident William Dunlop, Clerk school year. teachers Kathy Boster and Marylin Avenue Elemen- Granada High School, Tenth Also acknowledged dur- Anne White, Trustees Belia The Back-To-School Joanne Fosselman. Groups tary School, Second Grade; Grade; Elijah Leon, Del ing the event were winners of Martinez, Chuck Rogge and Kickoff, which took place of Pre-K thru Adult Educa- Valeria Bonfil, Michell K-8 Valle High School, Eleventh the Livermore Valley Cham- Kate Runyon recited a Top at the Robert Livermore tion students were featured in School, Third Grade; Kami Grade; ber of Commerce Education Ten Things We Are Most Community Center, began “Acclaiming the Arts! Teruya, Rancho Elemen- Summer Smith, Vineyard Committee Video Contest. Proud of in LVJUSD. High- with a “meet and greet” Visual and Performing tary School, Fourth Grade; Alternative School, Twelfth Students and community lighted in this list were the and a performance by the A r t s t h r o u g h t h e Raven Jones, Arroyo Seco Grade; Michael James Mi- members were tasked with involvement of families and Arroyo Seco Elementary Years,”displaying the ac- Elementary School, Fourth ille, Livermore High School, creating a video that com- community in the schools, School Bell Choir. Opening complishments in Visual and Grade; Josiah Knight, Sun- Twelfth Grade; Zoe Tranter, municates why Livermore the positive LVJUSD reputa- welcome and remarks by Performing Arts. set Elementary School, Livermore High School, Schools Rock. Winners tion, the commitment to all Superintendent of Schools Students featured includ- Fifth Grade; Morgan Frazer, Twelfth Grade; Kylie Clark, for the K-8 category were students from all stakehold- Kelly Bowers were focused ed: Taylor Graham, Croce Christensen Middle School, Granada High School, Shannon Kai, Kiara Stein- ers, the breadth of programs on the District’s four theme Elementary School, Kinder Sixth Grade; Juan Fernan- Twelfth Grade; and Rona horst and Maddie Williams in spite of budget woes, ris- words, inform, include, in- Readiness; Memphis Cook, dez, Junction K-8 School, Sheeran, Adult Education. from Christensen Middle ing State test scores and the novate and inspire. Altamont Creek Elementary Seventh Grade; The Granada and Liver- School, teacher advisor, staff and students.

LEGAL NOTICES Rd., Livermore, CA 94550, fictitious business name(s) 2012. business as: Wilsons Leath- 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Public by a Limited liability com- President - Tax is hereby registered by the listed above on N/A. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS er, 3010 Paragon Outlets Works Agency, Room 230B, pany This statement was filed FOR INFORMATION following owner(s): Signature of Registrants NAME STATEMENT Drive, Livermore, CA 94551, 951 Turner Court, Hayward, The registrant began to with the County Clerk of PLACING LEGAL McGrail Vineyards and Win- :s/: Robert P. Legg, Owner FILE NO. 471733 is hereby registered by the CA North County – Friday, transact business under the Alameda on October 31, NOTICES ery, LLC, 5600 Greenville This statement was filed The following person(s) do- following owner(s): December 7, 2012 at 10:00 fictitious business name(s) 2012. Expires October 31, Call 925-243-8000 Rd., Livermore, CA 94550 with the County Clerk of ing business as: A Graceful A M Retail Group, Inc., 7401 a.m. at General Services listed above on N/A. 2017. This business is conducted Alameda on October 26, Touch, 7667 Amador Valley Boone Ave N., Brooklyn Park, Agency, 1401 Lakeside Drive, Signature of Registrants The Independent Legal No. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS by a Limited liability com- 2012. Expires October 26, Blvd, Suite B, Dublin, CA MN 55428 Conference Room 201, Oak- :s/: Eddie Joe, Owner / Of- 3351. Published November NAME STATEMENT pany 2017. 94568, is hereby registered This business is conducted land, CA Responses Due ficer 29, December 6, 13, 20, FILE NO. 471548 The registrant began to The Independent Legal No. by the following owner(s): by a Corporation by 2:00 pm on January This statement was filed 2012. The following person(s) doing transact business under the 3337. Published November Kemprud & Co., LLC, 7667 The registrant began to 9, 2013 County Contact: with the County Clerk of business as: Two Men and a FICTITIOUS BUSINESS fictitious business name(s) 8, 15, 22, 29, 2012. Amador Valley Blvd, Suite transact business under the Michael Lu (510) 208-9649 Alameda on November 19, NAME STATEMENT Truck, 4749 Bennett Drive listed above on N/A. A, Dublin, CA 94568 fictitious business name(s) or via email: michael.lu@ 2012. Expires November #C, Livermore, CA 94551, FICTITIOUS BUSINESS FILE NO. 471448 Signature of Registrants This business is conducted listed above on N/A. acgov.org Attendance at 19, 2017. The following person(s) doing is hereby registered by the NAME STATEMENT :s/: James McGrail - Manag- by a Limited Liability com- Signature of Registrants Networking Conference is The Independent Legal No. business as: Chico’s #1127, following owner(s): FILE NO. 471468 ing Member, McGrail Vine- pany :s/: Randon Q. Roland, Sr. Non-mandatory. Specifica- 3350. Published November 2782 Paragon Outlets Drive, Ziepke Inc, 2986 Blumen Av- The following person(s) do- yards and Winery, LLC The registrant began to VP/CFO tions regarding the above 29, December 6, 13, 20, Livermore, CA 94551, is enue, Brentwood, CA 94513 ing business as: Polished This statement was filed transact business under the This statement was filed may be obtained at the Al- 2012. hereby registered by the This business is conducted Crete, 1306 Stealth St, Liver- with the County Clerk of fictitious business name(s) with the County Clerk of ameda County GSA Current following owner(s): by a Corporation more, CA 94551, is hereby FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Alameda on November 5, listed above on N/A. Alameda on October 19, Contracting Opportunities Chico’s FAS, Inc, 11215 The registrant began to registered by the following NAME STATEMENT 2012. Expires November Signature of Registrants 2012. Expires October 19, Internet website at www. Metro Pkwy, Fort Myers, transact business under the owner(s): FILE NO. 471447 5, 2017. :s/: Edmund Kemprud - Mem- 2017. acgov.org. FL 33966 fictitious business name(s) Bay Area Concretes, Inc, The following person(s) doing The Independent Legal No. ber The Independent Legal No. 11/29/12 This business is conducted listed above on N/A. 1306 Stealth St, Livermore, business as: White House / 3335. Published November This statement was filed 3348. Published November CNS-2411427# by a Corporation Signature of Registrants CA 94551 Black Market #3488, 2752 8, 15, 22, 29, 2012. with the County Clerk of 22, 29, December 6, 13, THE INDEPENDENT Legal The registrant began to :s/: Brent E. Larson, Presi- This business is conducted Paragon Outlets Drive, Liver- Alameda on November 8, 2012. No. 3349 transact business under the dent FICTITIOUS BUSINESS by a Corporation more, CA 94551, is hereby 2012. Expires November fictitious business name(s) This statement was filed NAME STATEMENT The registrant began to NOTICE of INVITING BIDS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS registered by the following 8, 2017. listed above on N/A. with the County Clerk of FILE NO. 470593 transact business under the Notice is hereby given that NAME STATEMENT owner(s): The Independent Legal No. Signature of Registrants Alameda on November 2, The following person(s) doing fictitious business name(s) sealed competitive bids will FILE NO. 472065 White House / Black Market 3346. Published November :s/: Kevin R. Schockling, Vice 2012. Expires November business as: Artisan Marsh- listed above on N/A. be accepted in the office of The following person(s) doing Inc, 11215 Metro Pkwy, Fort 22, 29, December 6, 13, President - Tax 2, 2017. mallows, 260 N. L Street, Signature of Registrants the GSA-Purchasing Depart- business as: E S Motor Cars Myers, FL 33966 2012. This statement was filed The Independent Legal No. Livermore, CA 94551, is :s/: Jonathan D. Vasquez, ment, County of Alameda, LLC, 3597 First St, Suite This business is conducted with the County Clerk of 3333. Published November hereby registered by the C.O.O. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 1401 Lakeside Drive, Suite 4, Livermore, CA 94551, by a Corporation Alameda on October 31, 8, 15, 22, 29, 2012. following owner(s): This statement was filed NAME STATEMENT 907, Oakland, CA 94612 is hereby registered by the The registrant began to Kim Elaine Faulkner, 714 with the County Clerk of FILE NO. 471422 NETWORKING BIDDERS following owner(s): transact business under the 2012. Expires October 31, FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Canterbury Ave, Livermore, Alameda on October 31, The following person(s) do- CONFERENCES for RFP E S Motor Cars LLC, 3597 fictitious business name(s) 2017. NAME STATEMENT CA 94550 2012. Expires October 31, ing business as: Swarovski #901056 Electronic Moni- First St, Suite 4, Livermore, listed above on N/A. The Independent Legal No. FILE NO. 470923-24 This business is conducted 2017. 271, 3276 Paragon Outlets toring and Surveillance of CA 94551 Signature of Registrants 3352. Published November The following person(s) doing by an Individual The Independent Legal No. Drive, Livermore, CA 94551, Offenders South County This business is conducted :s/: Kevin R. Schockling, Vice 29, December 6, 13, 20, business as: (1)PowR Enter- The registrant began to trans- 3339. Published November is hereby registered by the – Thursday, December 6, 2012. tainment (2) DJPowR, 363 act business under the ficti- 15, 22, 29, December 6, following owner(s): Clarke Ave, Livermore, CA tious business name(s) listed 2012. Swarovski Retail Ventures 94551, is hereby registered above on 10/15/2007. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Ltd, One Kenney Drive, Cran- by the following owner(s): Signature of Registrants ston, RI 02920 Charles D. Harding, 363 NAME STATEMENT :s/: Kim E. Faulkner, Owner FILE NO. 470603 This business is conducted Clarke Ave, Livermore, CA This statement was filed by a Corporation PLACE YOUR 94551 The following person(s) do- with the County Clerk of Al- ing business as: Salon on The registrant began to This business is conducted ameda on October 9, 2012. transact business under the by an Individual Fourth, 1952 Fourth St., CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE/CALL IN Expires October 9, 2017. Livermore, CA 94550, is fictitious business name(s) The registrant began to trans- The Independent Legal No. listed above on N/A. act business under the ficti- hereby registered by the 3336. Published November following owner(s): Signature of Registrants tious business name(s) listed 8, 15, 22, 29, 2012. :s/: Edward J. Capobianco, above on 9/24/2012. Rebecca Day, 1952 Fourth FICTITIOUS BUSINESS St., Livermore, CA 94550 Corporate Secretary for Reach over 27,000 Signature of Registrants Swarovski Retail Ventures :s/: Charles D. Harding NAME STATEMENT This business is conducted FILE NO. 471288 by an Individual Ltd. This statement was filed This statement was filed homes by direct mail in with the County Clerk of The following person(s) do- The registrant began to trans- ing business as: ELLA, 1141 act business under the ficti- with the County Clerk of Alameda on October 17, Alameda on October 31, 2012. Expires October 17, Catalina Dr. #123, Liver- tious business name(s) listed Livermore, Pleasanton, more, CA 94550, is hereby above on 9/1/2012. 2012. Expires October 31, 2017. 2017. The Independent Legal No. registered by the following Signature of Registrants Dublin and Sunol. owner(s): :s/: Rebecca Day, Owner The Independent Legal No. 3334. Published November 3347. Published November 8, 15, 22, 29, 2012. Robert P. Legg, 2927 Dani- This statement was filed elle Lane, Livermore, CA with the County Clerk of Al- 22, 29, December 6, 13, FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 94550 ameda on October 9, 2012. 2012. NAME STATEMENT This business is conducted Expires October 9, 2017. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS FILE NO. 471611 by an Individual The Independent Legal No. NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) The registrant began to 3344. Published November FILE NO. 471047 doing business as: Picazo transact business under the 22, 29, December 6, 13, The following person(s) doing Vineyards, 5600 Greenville The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 - PAGE 11

ANIMALS 2) CATS/ DOGS ADOPT A DOG OR CAT, for adoption information contact Valley Humane Society at (925)426-8656. Adopt a new best friend: TVAR, the Tri-Valley Animal Rescue, offers animals for adoption every Saturday and Sunday, excluding most holidays. On Saturdays from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, dogs are available at the Pleasanton Farmers Market at W. An- gela and First Streets. Two locations will showcase cats only: Petsmart in Dublin from Selling Your Home 12:00 to 4:00 and the Pet Extreme in Livermore from 12:00 to 4:00. On Sundays, over the Holidays cats are available at Petsmart By Cher Wollard in Dublin from 1:00 to 4:00, and Pet Extreme in Livermore Common wisdom says that the real estate sales year starts around from 12:00 to 4:00. For more Super Bowl Sunday and ends just after Halloween – Thanksgiving information, call Terry at at the latest. (925) 487-7279 or visit our But sometimes there are good reasons for sellers to put their website at www.tvar.org. homes on the market during the “off season.” FERAL CAT FOUNDATION Perhaps you are being transferred out of the area and are expected Cat & kitten adoptions now at the new Livermore Petco to report to your new job within the next few months. Maybe you on Saturdays from 10:00AM need to short sell a house you can no longer afford. Or you have to 2:30PM. We have many an opportunity to purchase your dream home, but first have to sell adorable, tame kittens that your current house. have been tested for FIV & FELV, altered & vaccinated. Maybe your property is already listed, and you are deciding We also have adult cats & whether to keep it on the market over the holidays or take a break ranch cats for adoption. until January. EMPLOYMENT In many parts of the country, selling a home in late Fall and early 56) ADULT CARE winter can be a challenge – especially if you still live in it. Independent Contractors Dreary, cold weather and the end-of-the-year holidays can keep Wanted. Senior Home buyers away. But in the Bay Area winters are generally mild, and Health Care. Must have ex- the cold, rainy weather doesn’t begin in earnest until after the New perience. Senior Solutions, Year. Inc (925)443-3101. This year, housing inventory has been so low for so many BE WARY of out of area months, many buyers are still scrambling to find homes. companies. Check with the local Better Business Bureau For a variety of reasons, this may be the perfect season for you before you send money or to sell. fees. Read and understand Marketing a home over the holidays offers both advantages and any contracts before you concerns: sign. Shop around for rates. • Low Inventory TO PLACE Fewer homes are put up for sale – and many sellers choose to A CLASSIFIED AD Call (925)243-8000 take existing inventory off the market – in November and December, resulting in less competition. MERCHANDISE This year marks an extreme of this general rule. A “normal” 127) LOST/ FOUND Livermore market has about 250 residential properties on the Mul- LOST DOG tiple Listing Service at any one time, and a “normal” December in area of market can plunge to fewer than half that number. North K Street & But as of the beginning of this week, we had a mere 55 Livermore Chestnut Street properties on the MLS. Buyers, many of whom have lost out to Livermore multiple bids on previous homes, are still shopping. So Livermore on 11/14/12 Small Breed/Male homes that do come on to the market are quickly snatched up. 13 pounds Other Bay Area communities are seeing similar shortages. Long, thin body / That means this year you have a good shot at selling your home Fox-like. Long legs. quickly, even over the holidays. Long tail curls up • More Serious Buyers when walking. Generally, there are fewer buyers out looking this time of year, Long neck. Small but the ones who are tend to be serious about purchasing a home. head & ears. Lower No looky lous. No wannabes who can’t afford to buy. teeth underbite. Even in this tight market, that is likely to be the case. Blonde / Sandy in The folks touring properties and visiting open houses over the color Purple collar - Rabies holidays are the folks who intend to buy now. Otherwise they would Tag / Veterinarian be at the outlet mall or spending time with their families. Not neutered • Decorations, Scents and Lighting PLEASE CALL If you are still living in the property, go ahead and add a little holiday spirit. You don’t have to deprive your family of the joy of (925)447-5441 the season just because your home is on the market. Days are short and sometimes overcast, so adding festive lights LOST Red Poinsettia or other bright touches is nice. Just don’t overdo it. Clip Earring Whether it’s a tastefully decorated tree, a handsome menorah, Lost downtown Livermore, Diwali lanterns or a colorful Eid banner, keep it simple. You don’t Friday 12/16. If found, want to overwhelm a potential buyer. You want them to envision please call (925)447-1762 the house decorated according to their customs and beliefs. NOTICES/ANNOUNCEMENTS If you’re not certain you have hit the right balance, consult with your Realtor. He or she may also recommend you meet with 155) NOTICES a stager, who can suggest ways to make your property appealing “NOTICE TO READERS: to potential buyers. California law requires that contractors taking jobs that And when you know buyers are coming to view the home, either total $500 or more (labor by appointment or during an open house, turn on the holiday lights and/or materials) be licensed along with the rest of the illumination in the house. A bright home by the Contractors State is more appealing. License Board. State law also requires that contractors You may even want to light a fire in the fireplace – or fill it with include their license numbers lit candles – to provide a sense of warmth, especially on a chilly on all advertising. Check your day. Mildly scented candles in a woodsy or cinnamon fragrance contractor’s status at www. are inviting. cslb.ca.gov or (800)321- • Accessibility CSLB (2752). Unlicensed persons taking jobs less One problem for many sellers over the holidays is keeping the than $500 must state in their property accessible for viewing without disrupting family events. advertisements that they are Make sure your agent knows your plans. He or she can put a note not licensed by the Contrac- on the MLS, or simply inform buyers’ agents, if a particular day or tors State License Board.” time is inconvenient for you. But try to be flexible. When your home REAL ESTATE is on the market, you have to be prepared for showings. Inland Valley Perhaps a few scheduled open houses will work well for you and Publishing Co. Client Code:04126-00001 your agent. Believe it or not, successful open houses can be held Re: Legal Notice for even on the weekends before Christmas and New Year’s. You may Classified Ads not get huge numbers of visitors, but those who come are likely to The Federal Fair Housing be serious buyers. Act, Title VII of the Civil • Tailor Your Marketing Plan to the Season Rights Act of 1964, and state law prohibit advertisements If you are just now going on the market, your agent will consider for housing and employment time of year when calculating the right price point for your property. that contain any preference, Either way, he or she will compare your home with similar homes limitation or discrimination sold in the last few months. based on protected classes, including race, color, religion, If your home has been on the market for several months, it’s sex, handicap, familial status probably time to change your sales approach. or national origin. IVPC does Your asking price may be too high for current conditions. not knowingly accept any If the marketing materials your agent created – flyers, websites, advertisements that are in violation of the law. etc. — show your home in full summer bloom, ask that they be updated to include a few more recent shots. This doesn’t mean do away with those sunny-day photographs with green trees and bright flowers, just add a little holiday spirit to the mix. • Baby, It’s Cold Outside Staying on top of winter maintenance and chores is vital. Keep the gutters and walkways clear of leaves. Make sure the furnace is in working order, then keep the house at a comfortable temperature. Stepping from the blustery winds outside into a cozy house makes a good first impression for potential buyers. Put a mat out and maybe an umbrella stand, so visitors don’t track water on the carpet in inclement weather. Your agent may provide signage asking folks to remove their shoes or wear special booties when they tour the house, especially on rainy days. Most buyers are used to this by now and understand the need to keep carpets beautiful in the home they may buy! Take yourself on a tour of the house. Is it warm, inviting and uncluttered? Are all repairs completed? Buyers will see what you see, through even more critical eyes. If you do decide to put your home on the market during the holidays, talk to your Realtor. He or she can help you determine the best sales plan for your individual property. A property that is comfortable, attractive and priced appropriately can sell even over the holidays. Cher Wollard is a Realtor with Prudential California Realty, Livermore. PAGE 12 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 Deacon Dave to Unveil This Year's Holiday Theme

The biggest and what is have changed from past considered the best holiday years) The gates may be display in Livermore is set closed during inclement to open on Friday, Novem- weather, although every ber 30 at 6:30 pm. This effort is made to leave the holiday tradition is cel- lights glowing. There is no ebrating its 30th year. The admission charge. All the front yard of Deacon Dave donations collected in the Rezendes’ home at 352 coin toss, ponds, and at the Hillcrest Ave in Livermore, door are for Santa’s Secret Casa del Pomba, is visited Service. This program has by tens of thousands of provided a visiting Santa, guests each year. Deacon carolers, and gifts to area Dave is also celebrating his th nursing homes, shelters, and 30 year of his ordination hospitals for over 50 years. as a deacon in the Catholic Visit the website www.casa- Church. delpomba.com for more The theme each year information on the display, changes, and is always Santa’s Secret Service, and kept a secret until open- Deacon Dave’s family his- ing night ceremonies. On tory. A big thank you to November 30th, the home Unforgettable Memories for and yard will be dark as the opening night sound sys- a candlelight procession tem; Good News Bears for makes its way down the serving refreshments; Davey blocked off street. Mem- Tree for a bucket truck to bers of the community help with the “high work”, are welcome to join the and the fantastic crew who procession, which will makes it all happen. feature the St. Michael’s Photo - Doug Jorgensen Take East Avenue to Hill- choir leading Deacon Dave Crowds gathered last year to view the annual light display at Deacon Dave's home in Livermore. crest, and then follow the and Santa and Mrs. Claus glow. Check out the webcam to the home. The Trinity love” at shelters, hospitals, you believe in charity” peace, but also for those 9:00 pm Sunday through at www.casadelpomba.com/ Church choir will also per- and emergency services. were stretched along the who care for our elderly. Thursday, and from 6 pm webcam.htm form. There is a blessing Find out more about their driveway building. In the Over 35 volunteers work until 10:00 pm Friday and of the lights, the theme is good work at www.good- yard, guests were asked hard throughout the year to Saturday. (note these hours announced, and the lights newsbears.org if they believed in sweets, put on the display. They are are turned on. At that time, In 2011, the theme was angels, and love. One of from many faiths, and wel- guests are invited to walk “Do You Believe.” Guests the most special scenes come guests of all faiths. through the yard. walked through the display depicted Mary, Joseph, and Be sure to walk through to Members of the non- and joined “Virginia” from Jesus in the manger, and gain the total experience. profit group Good News the famous “Yes, Virginia, asked “do you believe in The crew members love to Bears will help Deacon there is a Santa Claus” the reason for the season.” share the spirit of the holi- celebrate his special night story as she observed the The last scene was a huge days, and are often on hand by serving refreshments. many symbols of Christ- lighted “Believe” sign, to answer any questions. Visitors wishing to sup- mas. Scenes depicting with Santa and Virginia Just look for anyone wear- port the group are invited themes such as ““Do you asking you to join them in ing a red “Casa del Pomba” to bring a new stuffed believe in giving rather believing in all the magic ball cap or jacket. animal or cash donation to than receiving,” “do you of the season. Santa loves to visit, and help them meet the ever-in- believe in the magic in This year, each light makes times in his busy creasing need for “stuffed children’s eyes,” and “do is not only a prayer for schedule to stop by often during the season. He of- ten drops in unannounced. Annual Holiday Candy Fundraising Effort by Mrs. Claus loves the beau- tiful lights and story that is Main Street Designs Benefitting the told every year, too, so she often joins Santa! Bothwell Arts Center Now in Full Swing Deacon Dave opens his Celebrating their 25th evening of each month, the yard starting on Novem- anniversary and the opening smaller-scale Art Happens ber 30 until January 1. of their seasonal Christmas brings together a variety The hours are 6 pm to shop in a new location, Main of activities from drop-in Street Designs is having its craft demonstrations to art most successful season ever exhibits at the Downtown selling See’s Candies as a Arts Studios, nearby galler- fundraiser, with all proceeds ies and local restaurants. going to the Bothwell Arts In addition to ArtWalk Center. and Art Happens, the Center The See’s Candies avail- mounts annual fundrais- able at the Main Street De- ing events in support of signs Christmas Shop in- its facilities and programs, clude a variety of chocolates gifts,” said Dennis Swan- including the popular New (milk, dark, soft centers, son, owner of Main Street Orleans Bash at the Both- nuts and chews, truffles Designs. well, a joyous celebration and assorted mixed) plus The Bothwell Arts Cen- of art and artisans on the other gourmet treats such ter, part of the Livermore Friday before Mardi Gras. as molasses chips, peanut Valley Performing Arts Cen- brittle, Victoria toffee, pep- ter (LVPAC), nurtures both Bothwell Arts Center permints, fancy nuts, and visual and performing arts, Upcoming Events: gourmet lollypops. Most providing individual artists December 9, 6:00 p.m.: candies are pre-wrapped for and local arts organizations Celtic Christmas Concert the holidays and a variety of with studio, classroom, re- and Gathering with live gift sets are in stock ranging hearsal, performance and music by Pog Mo Thoin from $6 mini-samplers to event space. In 2006, the and guests at the Bothwell a ½ pound gold box of as- Bothwell Arts Center opened Arts Center. sorted chocolates with the on 8th Street and in 2010, December 13, 6:00 -8:00 embossed message “Thank added the Downtown Arts p.m.: Art Happens with car- You” or “Happy Holidays” Studios on South L Street, olers and holiday cheer at to several multi-pound gift offering artists private and the Downtown Art Studios packs in beautiful wrapped open work spaces that fos- plus other events through- gift boxes. ter interaction. Earlier this out downtown. In addition, special or- year, a monthly event, Art February 8, 2013, 5:00- ders can be placed and ful- Happens, was introduced, 10:00 p.m.: New Orleans filled in just a few days. “We adding to the annual ArtWalk Bash at the Bothwell fea- recently ordered 8 cases of which blankets downtown turing live music, Southern assorted gourmet lollypops Livermore each October cuisine, pirate bar, silent for one client in time for with exhibits by artists rang- auction, art and merchan- Thanksgiving and another ing from long-time profes- dise for sale, and so much customer purchased over sionals to emerging artisans more at this Mardi Gras 200 pounds of chocolate in every type of media. Held costume party. for corporate and employee on the second Thursday

Wente Family to Lead Livermore Holiday Parade The Wente Family will stage will be located at the parade runs on First Street, lead the annual Holiday Flag Pole Plaza, corner of starting at M Street and end- Sights and Sounds Parade First Street and S. Liver- ing at McLeod Street. in downtown Livermore this more Ave. Performances The Tree Lighting is im- Saturday, December 1. are 1 p.m. Valley Montes- mediately following the Pa- As the oldest continu- sorri Choral Group; 2 p.m. rade at the Flag Pole Plaza. ously family owned winery Steve Kritzer; 3 p.m. Greg The ABC Music Course in the country and the first to Chambers, saxophone; 4 Children’s Choir will per- bring Chardonnay cuttings p.m. recorded music. form sounds of the sea- from France to California, Streets will close at 4 sons as well as a Livermore Livermore Downtown Inc. p.m. to prepare for the Holi- Christmas composition by elected to honor the family’s day Sights and Sounds Pa- Choir Director Kim Luty. five generations of commit- rade that starts at 6 p.m. The ment to Livermore Valley Wine Country. During the afternoon, snow will be at Lizzie Foun- tain for kids 8 and under to play in. Downtown stores will host a holiday open house. A Holiday Village Stroll courtesy of Club 56 will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Club has placed miniature Christmas Villag- es in the windows of some of the downtown stores. A holiday performance THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION A ‘Puss in Boots’ Holiday Panto Comes to The Amador Theater in Pleasanton The Pleasanton Civic Arts Stage Company presents its annual Holi- day Panto two weekends, December 7 through 16, at the Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Road in Pleasanton. This year’s fractured fairy-tale musical-comedy production is "Puss in Boots." Shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and matinees Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Based on the French fai- rytale by Charles Perrault, this world-premiere panto musical by local playwright Kate Hawley features a sassy cat who promises to solve the problems of a poor miller’s son. Dressed in her trademark red leather boots, Puss charms the Queen, befuddles the Prime Minister, defeats the powerful wizard Kazaam, David Moore as the Wizard Kazaam. and helps her shy master and Princess Sweetiepie fall madly in love. Featur- tion beloved for centuries theater from vaudeville to ing original songs by local in Great Britain, and most Saturday Night Live owe composer Chris Houston, often performed during their existence to the cher- the positive message about the Christmas and New ished and iconic Pantos of just being yourself makes Year season. The Brit- England. this musical a wonderful ish Panto has strong ties Puss in Boots follows holiday selection. to the Italian Commedia the panto tradition of being “Panto” (short for dell’Arte, which was a based on traditional chil- “pantomime”) is not to be form of “theater for the dren’s stories. Plot lines confused with the silent people” comprised of are then adapted for comic “mime” performance troupes of professional or satiric effect, and always genre made famous by actors who travelled the incorporate audience par- French mime master country, first in Italy then ticipation, slapstick, inside Marcel Marceau (think: later in France, perform- jokes, cross-dressing, song, black tights and white ing improvised comedic dance, and all kinds of painted faces). Rather stories which told lessons silliness. Other panto tra- Panto is a lively irreverent using characters familiar ditions to watch for include Morgan Werder as Puss and KJ Brown as Theophilus. musical-comedy produc- to each locale. American (continued on page 4) 2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012

Pictured are the 2012 opening party scene with Nutcracker (above left) and Land of the Snow Scene (above right). Photos - Gary Cain Valley Dance Theatre Stages 33rd Annual Classical Production of The Nutcracker

Valley Dance Theatre and 16, 2012 and 2:00 p.m. 16 at 2:00 p.m. Marchand When the players respond United States government of stress release. presents its 33rd annual matinees on December 8, first became involved with to the energy from the audi- on outstanding scientists “Ballet is a very precise full-length, classical pro- 9, 15, and 16, 2012. For theater when asked to fill ence, it boosts the energy in and engineers who are art form and a very intel- duction of The Nutcracker the fifth straight year, two in for an actor in Much the performance. early in their independent lectually involved form of beginning December 8, special performances for Ado About Magic, commu- “Valley Dance Theatre research careers. motion. When I'm in class, 2012 at the Bankhead local-area school children nity theater production by presents a wonderful pro- Whitley, who studied I'm able to leave behind the Theater, 2400 First Street will take place on Tuesday, Katzenjammer Company, duction of The Nutcracker. dance as a child, resumed stresses of the day and focus in Livermore. In keeping December 11, 2012 at 9:30 where he discovered that he As a teacher at Jackson ballet classes as a graduate on the choreography and with tradition, the holiday a.m. and 12:15 p.m. truly enjoyed the creativ- School in Livermore, my student at UC Berkeley. expressing the emotion of classic will be accompa- This year’s festivities ity of all of the aspects of wife brought her students Upon settling in Livermore the dance rather than being nied by the Livermore- include pre-show carols by theater – set construction, to the Bankhead to see . in 2007, she found Valley caught up in outside issues.” Amador Symphony. The Cantabella Children’s Cho- prop design, stage strik- the special performances Dance Theatre on Google Tickets to the eight public performances are $34, $28 performance will feature rus on December 8 at 2:00 ing, as well as acting and done every year for school and began taking classes, and $24 for adults and $18 professionally designed and 7:00 p.m., December singing. In high school and children. For many of those training more intensely be- ginning in 2009. This year for students 17 years and costumes, sets and scenery. 9 at 2:00 and December college, he performed roles children, it was their first younger. They may be pur- This year, the produc- 16, 2012 at 2:00 p.m., and ranging from chorus to lead live performance. Many marks her third appearance in The Nutcracker. “I didn't chased online at www.bank- tion will feature appearanc- by Harmony Fusion on in many musical theater of the children were so realize it as a child, but danc- headtheater.org, by phone at es by prominent members December 14 at 7:00 p.m., productions, including the excited that they couldn’t ing really helped to build 925-373-6800, or in person of the local community, in- December 15 at 2:00 and Tin Man in The Wizard of sleep the night before.” my confidence and poise,” at the theater box office, cluding Livermore Mayor 7:00 p.m. and December Oz and Mayor Shinn in The Also performing with Whitley says. “Even now, 2400 First St., Livermore. John Marchand and award- 16, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. The Music Man. He met his the corps de ballet in Snow if I'm feeling nervous about Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, winning Lawrence Liver- Asbury Ringers will be wife when they were cast and Waltz of the Flowers giving a presentation at 12 noon-6:00 p.m., and for more National Laboratory ringing in the theater lobby together in a play. will be Heather Whitley, work, I'll think about per- two hours prior to show (LLNL) design physicist, for selected performances. “There is something one of two young LLNL re- forming at the Bankhead and time. Heather Whitley. Livermore Mayor John magical about live theater,” searchers who recently re- realize, if I can handle that, For teachers interested Eight public perfor- Marchand will be per- Marchand says, “My wife ceived a Presidential Early giving a presentation should in tickets for either of the mances of the Tchaikovsky forming as a father in the and I participate whenever Career Award for Scientists involve much less apprehen- December 11 school perfor- classic will take place with opening party scene on we have the opportunity. and Engineers (PECASE). sion. As a graduate student mances, a ticket order form evening shows at 7:00 p.m. December 8 and 14 at 7:00 I love the creativity and The award is the highest and now, dance classes were is available at www.valley- on December 8, 14, 15, p.m. and December 15 and the synergy that develops. honor bestowed by the and are a much-needed form dancetheatre.com.

THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 3 Symphony Begins 50th Anniversary

Season with Holiday Concert 2012 2013 The Livermore-Amador emotion in force during the to 1980 and concertmaster In 1959, he surpassed 25 oth- SEASON Symphony opens its Golden mid-nineteenth century. of the San Francisco Opera er violinists to capture first Anniversary Season with The orchestra will be from 1970 to 1972. Born prize at the Paganini Interna- Handel’s music that celebrates the joined by Stuart Canin, con- in New York City, Canin tional Violin Competition in Genoa, Italy. One year later Messiah orchestra's half-century of certmaster of the San Fran- studied the violin with famed Pacific Chamber musical achievement. cisco Symphony from 1970 pedagogue Ivan Galamian. he was honored by his native Symphony city with its highest cultural The performance will be FRI NOV 30 8pm Dec. 1 at the Bankhead The- award, the Handel Medal, in ater in Livermore. There will recognition of his musical be a prelude talk at 7 p.m. achievements. Celebrating followed by the concert at 8 Both the Livermore and p.m. Dr. Arthur Barnes will Pleasanton city councils 50 Seasons conduct. have issued proclamations Livermore-Amador The concert will begin recognizing the 50th An- Symphony with Livermore composer niversary of the Livermore- SAT DEC 1 8pm Tom Darter's LAS-commis- Amador Symphony. sioned work "Celebrations." The Bankhead Theater is Johannes Brahms' Violin located at 2400 First Street The Nutcracker Concerto follows. The in downtown Livermore. Valley Dance Theatre with the evening concludes with Tickets may be purchased Livermore-Amador Symphony Brahms' First Symphony. at the box office, by calling DEC 8,9,14,15,16 2 & 7pm It captures the revolution or on-line at www.bankhead- of musical technique and Stuart Canin performs with symphony. theater.org. Chanticleer Christmas A Glorious Holiday Favorite Jeff Bordes & Friends: A Jazzy-Funky Christmas WED DEC 19 7:30pm Jeff Bordes & Friends Band and the great Dizzy returns for the second an- Gillespie. nual big Holiday Concert at In addition to his per- Willie K’s the Firehouse Arts Center formance work, Jeff is pas- on Saturday, December 8, at sionate about spreading the Hawaiian 8 p.m. This year’s theme is word of Jazz as a featured Christmas A Jazzy-Funky Christmas. It clinician in schools and mu- with the Kalama Brothers will featur special guest art- sic festivals throughout the An Island Holiday Aloha ists, including organist and world, as well as teaching FRI DEC 21 8pm vocalist Don Lewis, a peren- privately. He also writes nial local favorite. Also on articles on jazz for numer- the bill is swinging local big ous music publications, in- band group The CoolTones. cluding All About Jazz and Moscow Bordes says the program will Trumpet Player Online. And Boys Choir include a number of other if that’s not enough, Bordes "terrific surprise guests." has recently begun a new Christmas Included in the program music career composing Christmas Around the World will be numbers Jeff dubs for film and commercials, SAT DEC 22 7:30pm “bluegrazz," merging blue- including contributing to grass and jazz. “We will Jeff Bordes the soundtrack of the award- be performing some music winning documentary “De with a back-porch jazz feel, Colores.” Big Fat Kiss as if we were hanging out Off Comedy on the porch of a cabin in Bordes needs no introduc- projects with such greats Tickets are $15, $20, $25; the swamps of Louisiana, tion to jazz fans. A 1997 as Branford Marsalis, Alex child $12; senior $22; group Show XX playing holiday music and graduate of the famed jazz Acuna, Richie Cole, Tom discounts available. Tickets Will Durst and Friends having a good time . . . This school Berklee College of Petty, Stevie Nicks, Sheryl can be purchased in advance FRI DEC 28 8pm group will feature blue- Music in Boston, Bordes Crow, and most recently at www.firehousearts.org, grass instruments including has been not only playing John Mellencamp. He has by calling the Box Office at CALL CLICK fiddle and washboard,” says since very young, but chang- done performance tours of 925-931-4848, or in person 925.373.6800 bankheadtheater.org Bordes. ing the face of jazz. Career the US and internationally from the Firehouse Box Of- Bay Area jazz trumpeter highlights include live per- with a number of groups, fice, 4444 Railroad Avenue COME BY and Pleasanton native Jeff formances and recording including Bill Berry Big in Pleasanton. 2400 First Street • Downtown Livermore 4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 Fire Department Launches Annual Toys for Tots Drive The Livermore-Pleasan- tion. All Livermore-Pleasan- ton Fire Department (LPFD) ton Fire Department Stations conducts the local Toys- have Toys for Tots contain- for-Tots Campaign for the tion by the National Toys for ers where the public can 2012 Holiday Season. Once Tots Foundation, which lists drop-off new, unwrapped again designated as an of- LPFD on its website (http:// toys: ficial Local Community pleasanton-ca.toysfortots. Fire Headquarters, 3560 Organization by the Toys- org/local-coordinator-sites/ Nevada Street, Pleasan- for-Tots Foundation, LPFD lco-sites/default.asp) so that ton, (925) 454-2361; Sta- firefighters have already be- businesses and/or individu- tion #6, 4550 East Avenue, gun collecting, storing, and als can donate toys. Donated Livermore; Station #1, 3560 sorting new and unwrapped toys are given to children Nevada Street, Pleasanton; toys that will benefit and who live in the Tri-Valley Station #7, 951 Rincon, provide holiday cheer for the region and Alameda County. Livermore; Station #2, 6300 children of the Tri-Valley. Through the donations of Stoneridge Mall Rd., Pleas- This year, toy donations are businesses, community or- anton; Station #8, 5750 Sce- most critical because local ganizations, schools and nic Ave., Livermore; Station charitable organizations individuals, firefighters ex- #3, 3200 Santa Rita Rd., that participated in the past ceeded in collecting over Pleasanton; Station #9, 1919 are unable to due to funding 26,000 toys last year. Cordoba St., Livermore; shortages. Many local Livermore Station #4, 1600 Oak Vista PEEPING SCROOGE. Ebeneezer Scrooge (Dave Rettinger) looks longingly into the The LCO designation Way, Pleasanton; Statoin happy Cratchit home, where Mrs. C. (Jenny Moy) and her daughter Martha (Ari Moore) and Pleasanton businesses gives LPFD recognition as serve as collection points for $10, 330 Airway Blvd., plan a Christmas surprise. Scenes from Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" will an official toy drop-off loca- the Toys for Tots Founda- Livermore. be performed throughout the Dickens Faire at St. Bartholomew's Church, 678 Enos Way, Livermore. Victorian "shoppes," music and tea also will be offered. Hours are 10 am to 5 pm Saturday, December 1, and 1-5 pm Sunday, December 2. Photo by Mike Atkin Celtic Christmas Concert & Gathering at the Bothwell with Special Guest Michael Mullen The Celtic Christmas Concert & Gathering will celebrate its second year PUSS IN BOOTS with a special musical treat. (continued from front page) The festivities will take recurring comic characters, grow into really seasoned pany Coordinator with the place from 6 to 9 p.m. on such as “the two servants," performers. This cast City of Pleasanton. “I get Sun., Dec. 9 at the Bothwell one crafty and one stupid, includes (2008 first season energized when I see and Arts Center in Livermore. “the father," “the lover," actors) Morgan Werder as hear the rehearsal process; Pog Mo Thoin, fronted “the evil wizard," and “the Puss, and Tommy Herz in new songs being sung, by Gabe Duffin, is a local sweet child." the comic supporting role new dance routines being band that features lively jigs In this version of of Brutus.” worked out, and an enthu- and Irish folk songs. For this Puss in Boots, the role In addition to return- siastic production staff that event they will bring in guest of the Queen was written ing director Ennals, Katie loves what they do.” Michael Mullen, hailed as a especially for returning O’Bryon reprises her role Tickets are $10, $15, “fiddle demon” in past press guest actor Paula Wujek. as company choreographer, $18; Child or Senior: $6, releases. sic, a potluck meal, cider & Guest artist David Moore, along with set and lighting $9, $12. Tickets can be Mullen is widely known decades of Irish and Scot- tish fiddling, comes alive tea. Wine and beer will be appearing with Civic Arts designer Steve Mannshardt purchased online at www. for his frenetic, lively fid- behind the fiddle and the available for an additional Stage Company for the first and sound designer Ryan firehousearts.org, by call- dling as a member of the fiddle becomes a live thing charge. Guests are asked time, takes on dual roles as Lee Short. New staff ing 925-931-4848, and in Celtic group, Tempest. in his hands, and a perfect to bring the potluck dish of the snooty Prime Minister music director Angela Zull- person at the Firehouse Tempest has been in the forefront of the groups that complement to the sound of their choice. Pratt and the evil wizard inger and costume designer Arts Center Box Office, Pog Mo Thoin. The event is produced Kazaam, which makes him Sophia Thorsen round 4444 Railroad Avenue, “rebirthed” the Celtic sound in the last two decades and Tickets are $15 at the by Gabe Duffin with sup- a villain doubly worth boo- out the senior production Pleasanton. Box Office breathed new life into its door, pre-sale tickets $10 port by the Bothwell Arts ing. According to Direc- roster. hours are Wednesday - popularity by emphasizing are available at ABC Music Center and LVPAC, and is a tor Rebecca Ennals, “It’s “I am so excited to see Friday 12:00 noon-6:00pm movement, dance, drums, Source, Panama Red Coffee fundraiser for the Bothwell. exciting to work with a another fun classic brought and Saturdays 10:00am- lively electronic fiddling and Company, from members of The Bothwell is located cast of over 70 local actors, to life at the Amador 4:00pm. Tickets are also a healthy grounding in rock the band, and through info@ at 2466 8th Street and is a mostly kids aged 6 and Theater this season,” available at the Amador and roll. Mullen, schooled bothwellartscenter.org. project of Livermore Valley up. We’re always thrilled says Mark Duncanson, Theater 2 hours prior to the originally in classical vio- This family friendly Performing Arts Center, a to see our young actors Civic Arts Stage Com- performance. lin and graduating to two event will feature live mu- not-for-profit corporation.

THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 5 Wineries Open Their Doors for Festive Holiday in the Vineyards Weekend Visitors Asked to Bring Donation for Toys for Tots

Livermore Valley Wine Cabernet Sauvignon, va- jewelers Country celebrates the riety of arts and crafts and Rios-Lovell Winery: season with a weekend of jewelry. Ports (Sweet ports for the cheer during Holidays in Las Positas Vineyards: New Year), vendors & hors the Vineyards this week- Wine and Food Pairing. In d’oeuvres. end, December 1 and 2. addition, desserts, cup- Tamás Estates: Santa Hours at participating cakes, truffles, etc. avail- Claus visiting 1-3 pm. wineries are noon to 4:30 able for purchase. Complimentary mulled p.m. each day. There is no Les Chênes Estate Vine- apple cider ticket required to attend. yards: Food and cheese The Singing Winemak- However, tasting fees may pairings er: Assortment of holiday apply and vary by winery. Longevity Wines: Sat. gifts, wine tasting During this annual wine 1-4 pm Santa Visit, Sunday The Steven Kent country tradition, wineries Joey T & Friends Live Mu- Winery and La Rochelle open their tasting rooms sic. Food from Winemak- Winery: Wine and cheese featuring arts and craft ers Pourhouse both days, pairing stations in the bar- vendors, special wines, variety of crafts. rel room each day, variety festive activities, Santa McGrail Vineyards and of crafts and truffles. visits, carolers, and more. Winery: Posada Catering Wente Vineyards Estate: Guests are encouraged will be selling food Sat. Santa Claus visit Sunday to bring unwrapped toys and Sun., Santa Claus will only from 1-3 pm, Com- or monetary donations. All be visiting on Sunday. plimentary Mulled Apple toys and donations will be Photo - Doug Jorgensen Mitchell Katz Winery: Cider donated to the Pleasanton- Barrel room is decked out for the holidays. Santa Claus will be visiting Westover Vineyard Livermore Fire Depart- 1-4 pm both days, variety & Winery: Pomegranate ment Association's Toys crafts, variety of chocolate a sweet and belly-warming Valley Humane Society. of arts and crafts for gift Sparking Peach Sparking for Tots Program after the truffles paired especially treat. Variety of crafts Accepting monetary dona- giving. Mataro SF Bay Cabernet event, directly benefitting for wine available for purchase. tions for Toys for Tots, Murrieta’s Well: 2008 Sauvignon, Pleasanton children in need through- Big White House & Concannon Vineyard: variety of gifts available Los Tesoros Cabernet Ridge Chardonnay, Estate out Alameda and Contra John Evan Cellars: Barrel Horse carriage rides for purchase. Tri-tip chili, Sauvignon & 2009 Los LV Petite Sirah Port, Bottle Costa Counties. Some tasting annual Winter Star; through the vineyard with a hot mulled wine, variety of Tesoros Cabernet Franc, your own port (50% off for wineries offer discounts on shopping for variety of glass of wine for a fee and gift items. Complimentary holiday members) or Noveau Wine tasting with a toy donation. gifts hot chocolate for the kids. Eckert Estates: New cookies and hot cider $6.00 per bottle, bring your For more on the Bodegas Aguirre Win- Pairing Petite Sirah Port wine release of Pinot Noir Nottingham Cellars: own or $7.00 Toys for Tots program, ery: Reserve wine tasting, with Petite Sirah Chocolate and Port, variety of crafts Petite Sirah, Chardon- White Crane Winery: visit http://pleasanton-ca. photography and prints Sauce. Ken's Wood Fired including Extra special nay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Claus Visiting toysfortots.org/local- available, complimentary Pizza will be on hand to hand made custom dog truffles and jewelry for 12-4 pm Sat. & Sunday. coordinator-sites/lco-sites/ tasting with Toys for Tots make his artisanal cre- clothes by Nikki Good- purchase. Complimentary meatballs default.asp donations ations. Gift ideas. man Occasio Winery: marinated in Port and wine Many wineries are of- Cedar Mountain Win- Crooked Vine & Stony El Sol Winery: Barrel Verticals of Zinfandel, sauce. fering special discounts on ery: BYOB- Bottle Your Ridge Winery: Cupcake Samples of 2006 Estate Petite Sirah and library Wood Family Vine- wines and cases of wines. Own Port Sunday only 12- pairings, hot apple ci- Syrah and 2005 Liver- wines. Introduction of new yards: New release 2010 Listed below is just a 4, Complimentary Mulled der, wine discounts, and more Cabernet Sauvignon. dessert wine releases and Zinfandel “Muy Bien.” sampling of what visitors Wine; Holiday Port and holiday decorations. Gift Holiday shopping: hats, announcement of Occasio Limited production tasting to Livermore Valley wine chocolate cups in special vendors including recycled scarves, jewelry, jewelry Heritage Collection. offered to all who bring a country will find during packaging at a special wine barrels turned into art. and more jewelry. Page Mill Winery: Free toy or donation for Toys Holidays in the Vineyards: price; Holiday Gift Shop - Cuda Ridge Wines: Re- Elliston Vineyards: Fes- tastings with Toys for Tots for Tots 10% off case Bent Creek Winery: Lots of products. lease of new wines; Santa tive music and décor for donation, Chili both days purchase, Soup and wine new release 2009 Liver- Charles R Vineyards: Claus will make appear- enjoyment, craft creations, 12-4:30 pm, arts and crafts. pairings. Gourmet foods, more Valley Petite Sirah; Holiday Choir singing ance Sat & Sun. Tim Goes handmade gifts and novel- Retzlaff Vineyards: arts and crafts vendors. Two Guys playing light traditional holiday songs performing Christmas ties Complimentary hot For a complete list of jazz and holiday music – Saturday afternoon, Carols. Garré Vineyard and chocolate, cookies, arts and discounts, fees, crafts, etc., - 12:30 - 4:30 pm Satur- S’mores packages for two Eagle Ridge Vineyard: Winery: Garré Sparkling crafts. Holiday clothing, go to www.lvwine.org. day and Sunday; arts and ($4) and roasting forks for Selling lavender items for Wine, Red Velvet Port, hand made wooden toys,

6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012

Harry Marku, Author of Rare TurningWheels for Kids Near Goal of 500 New Bikes Earth to Present Program at For the past seven years er at the Alameda County and cash and in-kind dona- local businesses will step up TurningWheels for Kids, a Fairgrounds to assemble all tions from Therma Corpora- and help us reach our goal.” the Livermore Library Silicon Valley based 501(c)3 the bikes in about 5 hours! tion, Cresco Rentals, The claims Cathryn Griggs an- non-profit has made under- “It’s been a lot of work First Presbyterian Church, other board member served children’s dreams but we have a very commit- Livermore, both Hayward TurningWheels for Kids come true by providing new ted group of volunteers and and Livermore Rotaries Tri-Valley is a new, local bicycles at Christmas-time have received tremendous and the Alameda County chapter of an already prov- and throughout the year. support from local busi- Fairgrounds, the group has en, 501(c)3 organization This year, the new Tri-Valley nesses and individual donors already raised a large por- under the auspices of the Chapter will expand on that to help us get this off the tion of the needed funds. Santa Clara Valley Medical with the purchase, assembly ground.” stated Rich Sims “We’re still about $10,000 Center Foundation. Contact and donation of almost 500 one of the group’s board short of the $40,000 we need Rich Sims at rich@turning- new bikes to local charities. members. to raise, but we’re confident wheelsforkids.org. Online On December 1st over 150 With an initial grant from that, as the holidays come information is available at Henry Marku to talk about volunteers will work togeth- the Safeway Foundation around, the community and www.turningwheelsforkids. his book at the Library. org/tri-valley-group

Author Henry Marku discusses his novel Rare Combines Centerpointe Choirs Perform Festival of Carols Earth at 2pm on Sunday, The combined choirs of The program will include join us as we celebrate the will narrate the program. December 2, 2012 at the Centerpointe Church will anthems by both the hand- true meaning of Christmas,” A reception will follow Livermore Public Library present their annual Festival bell and chancel choirs ac- said chancel choir director the Saturday evening perfor- Civic Center, 1188 S. Liver- name of a local Livermore of Carols, The Joy of Christ- companied by piano, organ Kathryn Walda. “We hope mance. There is no admis- more Avenue. scientist working in the field mas, Dec. 8 and Dec. 9 at and a string quartet. The to fill everyone’s heart with sion charge. There is no charge for of alternative energy, whose the church’s worship center, audience will have the op- the joy of the season.” For additional informa- this event. Books will be novel is inspired in part by 3410 Cornerstone Court. portunity to sing along with Betty Gail Hunt directs tion, please see the web site, available for sale and sign- the characters and stories he The Saturday perfor- a number of the best-loved the handbell choir, while www.centerpointechurch. ing. experienced growing up in mance starts at 7 p.m. The Christmas Carols that tell Diana Cefalo will be the org or call the office at 925- Yakov, a maverick ge- the Ukrainian and Romanian second performance will be the story of Christ’s birth. guest director. Lee Lipsker 846-4436. ologist, makes an extraor- immigrant communities at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 9. “We welcome all to come dinary Rare Earth min- of the Western Canadian eral find in the Canadian prairies. Although remotely sub-Arctic and becomes settled and seemingly mun- an unwilling pawn in the dane, the people of this Film and Broadway Actor Duffy Hudson Performs hands of a political cartel. dying immigrant culture His safety relies on Robb, were larger than life, having 'A Christmas Carol' at Firehouse Arts Center a promising young scientist survived wars, depression Visit the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and yet protecting US interests in and want after risking their to come in A Christmas Carol on Friday, December 7th the advancing Rare Earth lives to escape across the at 7pm. Museum on Main brings film and Broadway economies. When Robb’s Atlantic to forge a future in actor Duffy Hudson back to the Firehouse Arts Center personal coincidences con- the New World. They were in this unique one-man adaptation of the classic Charles nect Yakov’s discovery to well suited to surviving the Dickens novella, A Christmas Carol. the public murder of a top- harsh and unforgiving cli- Nearly 170 years since the first publication of the level politician, the youthful mate of Saskatchewan and Dickens tale, Hudson brings the magical story to life analyst launches a quest to Manitoba. Drawing on his as he portrays all 46 characters without the aid of props prove the link—instantly workplace experiences as or costumes. Hudson received standing ovations and inserting him in the crossfire well, Marku explores scien- praise for his portrayals of Albert Einstein and Edgar alongside the beleaguered tific and social themes in his Allan Poe at sold-out performances at the Firehouse Yakov. To survive, he must book, such as the rejection Arts Center for Museum on Main’s Ed Kinney Speak- prove who is behind the of science as mere hypoth- ers Series and is sure to draw the same response for this assassination and why the esis and devaluation of the performance. Rare Earth minerals are human individual. To purchase reserved seating to this event, please being sought with deadly The Friends of the Liver- contact the Firehouse Arts Center box office at (925) intent. Rare Earth weaves more Library have under- 931-4848 or go to www.firehousearts.org. Museum drama, high-tech anecdotes, written this program as part member passes or discounts do not apply. Box Office fictional science, and social of the Friends Authors and Hours: Wed-Fri- 12-6pm, Sat- 10-4pm. Tickets to the conscience to create a novel Arts Series. For additional event are $16 adults, $12 Youth 12 & under. modeled after those of Mi- events, check the library’s chael Crichton. website at www.livermoreli- Harry Marku is the pen brary.net. Duffy Hudson in A Christmas Carol

THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 7

Responses from Some Readers

This is the fourth of that I didn’t know.” with respect.” these columns that I have My column on the I wrote two columns written. Just as I learned Hagemann Ranch triggered on chickens. I had asked through teaching that the a response from Christine Ashley Ruzicka about her teacher always learns Ariizumi. She has lived chickens, but she was so from his/her student, so in the same house for 43 busy that she did not get the writer of a newspaper years. It shares a fence line her information to me in column learns from his/her with the ranch. “We have time. “I raise bantam Par- readers. Thanks to all of thoroughly enjoyed having tridge Wyandottes, large you who have responded. the ranch behind us. We and bantam Golden Laced Anne Homan poses with the KisselKar. Photo by Lynn Kissel Rich Buckley wrote were worried sick when Wyandottes, a bantam about his family’s early the developer purchased White Faced Black Span- connections with Yosem- the land and it went on the ish, a large Rhode Island beautifully restored 1914 tel clerk took him upstairs ALWAYS held his head up ite. His grandfather Tom market. . . . Fortunately, all Red, a large Black Ma- KisselKar 40 touring car, to his room, “directly over high and maintained his Buckley spent many sum- turned out well for those of ran, and a bantam White one of only four left. He the wheezing bus.” The dignity and the respectful- mers camping in the park us who want to keep some Silkie.” In all, she has ten had to use hand signals for only way he could get any ness we as servers had with his sons. In the 1930s of the ‘old’ around. It is an chickens and one Mandarin his turns. He worried about fresh air in the room was to known him for. I am glad his parents’ home in Liver- anchor that holds together duck. This past summer young drivers who would open the window, but that to know he is still doing more was a “hotel” for Na- the Valley’s past and pres- with her bantam Spanish, probably not understand let in all the bus exhaust well.” tive Americans who came ent and should be used she won Best of Class, what he was doing. The big fumes. Needless to say, Brett Gregory started all the way down from Yo- as a teaching tool for the Best Bantam, and Reserve car attracted a good deal he was glad when the Lab working at the Livermore semite to be treated by Dr. citizens of Livermore and (second place) of Show at of attention. I had a great housing office found him Airport in 1992 and knew Degnan. Rich said, “Dad their children who think we the Alameda County Fair. time! other quarters a week later. Dan Lee. “Whenever he used to tell us a story about are just a suburb of the Bay Carolyn Hunt wrote, William Lokke came In the 1970s and 1980s, was at the airport he was his father sending him on Area’s larger towns.” “I enjoy your historical to Livermore as “a fresh Rick Sanders worked at smiling. You could tell it a trail from where they Keith Duffus wrote all articles. I’m amazed at wide-eyed Minnesota La Rochelle’s restaurant in was his passion. Your ar- were camping on Glacier the way from Ohio. He how you keep coming up college graduate” to join Pleasanton and served both ticle was a fitting tribute to Point to the valley floor. started working for the with such interesting mate- the Lab in June 1957. He Masud Mehran and his a man who made a differ- Dad said he’d jog down Hagemanns in 1972 when rial! Some aren’t especially caught a Greyhound Bus to son, Alex. “During the Iran ence that we all still benefit the mountain to fetch fresh he was 12 years old and interesting to me person- Livermore, where he and hostage crisis, I remember from today.” bread (from Degnan’s) and continued for two years ally, such as last week’s his trunks were “dumped his being verbally harassed (Readers can reach me at scamper back up. None of during the summers. “Mr. article on the Foscalinas, behind the Lutz Hotel into by local business men for [email protected].) us believed his story until Hagemann and his mother whom I’d never heard of, a 110-degree” day. The ho- being Iranian; however, he we read your article.” would have me do simple until WHOA! I read that Anne Longmuir also chores. The highlight of Simon and his wife lived in wrote about Dr. Degnan: working there was lunch the house I lived in when I Pleasanton Concert Band to Perform Holiday “I was pleasantly surprised time. They would always first came to Livermore in when thumbing through serve me a summer sau- 1963!” Rhapsode Concert at the Firehouse the recent paper I spied sage sandwich. They made In one of my col- The Firehouse Arts Cen- my grandmother’s maiden their own summer sausage, umns on the year 1913, I The Pleasanton Com- and Jingle Bells Rhapsody. munity Concert Band will ter doors will open at 1:40 name. I read your article and it was wonderful. I am mentioned a KisselKar—a There will be many other fa- perform its annual holiday PM. The concert is free, now 52 and I can still re- miliar seasonal tunes, med- about Dr. John Degnan’s make of car I had never concert at the Firehouse Arts although donations are ap- member those sandwiches leys, and an opportunity time in Livermore. He was heard of. A friend put me Center in Pleasanton. to Sing-Along. This free preciated. like it was yesterday. The my great-uncle. . . . Over in touch with Lynn Kissel, Under the direction of concert will be performed on For more information the years I heard many experience of working for who lived in Livermore un- Bob Williams, the band Sunday, December 2, 2012 call 925-846-5897 or go stories about Yosemite, them was more than just til recently and owns two presents the sounds of the at 2:00 PM at the Firehouse to the Pleasanton Commu- the Degnan family and Dr. the food. It was starting KisselKars. He invited me holiday season including Arts Center, 4444 Railroad nity Concert Band website. John but your research and early, working hard and for a ride through down- A Rhapsody For Hanuk- Avenue, Pleasanton. www.pleasantonband.org article were new things people treating each other town Livermore in his kah, A Rhapsody on Carols,

8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012

ART/PHOTO EXHIBITS 8th St., Livermore. Coffee, tea and Valley Wine Country celebrates the South Livermore Ave., Livermore. Avenue in Pleasanton. Bollinger Canyon Rd., San Ramon; san- Livermore Art Association Gallery, refreshments are available. Call or season, December 1 and 2, noon Tri-Valley Medieval and Renaissance Festival of Carols, The Joy of ramonperformingarts.com. 973-3343. located in the Carnegie Building, offers email Barbara Stanton for more info to 4:30 p.m. each day. There is no Collegium playing session for amateur Christmas, featuring the combined Puss in Boots, Pleasanton Civic Arts art classes, unusual gifts, painting about the workshop, 925-373-9638 - ticket required to attend. However, musicians, Peter Maund, director. choirs of Centerpointe Church Dec. 8 Stage Company presents Holiday ‘frac- rentals, art exhibits and information [email protected]. tasting fees may apply and vary by Mondays 7:30–9:30 p.m. 7600 Dublin and Dec. 9 at the church’s worship tured fairy-tale’ musical comedy, Fri- pertaining to the art field, 2155 Third Classes, colored pencil basics and winery. Guests are encouraged to bring Blvd., suite 370, Dublin. $25. Informa- center, 3410 Cornerstone Court. The day Dec 7 and 14, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday St., Livermore. The gallery has been beyond taught by Maryann Kot. Starting unwrapped toys or monetary donations tion [email protected] or Saturday performance starts at 7 p.m. Dec 8 and 15, 7:30 p.m.; and 2 p.m. open since 1974 and is run as a co-op Mon., Jan. 7 9:30 a.m. to noon or 6:30 for Toys for Tots. Information at Liver- 925-424-1209 or 925-984-4395 The second performance will be at 4 matinees on Saturdays and Sundays by local artists. Hours are Wed.-Sun. to 9 p.m. on Jan. 8 for five weeks. more Valley Winegrowers Association, Authentic New Orleans Style/Dance- p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 9. Handbell and Dec 8, 9 and 15, 16. Amador Theater, 11:30-4 p.m. For information call Bothwell Arts Center 2466 8th Street, www.lvwine.org. able Dixieland Traditional Jazz now chancel choirs accompanied by piano, 1155 Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton. 449-9927. Livermore. Sign up at Way Up Art and Charles R Vineyards celebrates Holiday at Sunol Jazz Cafe`. Comfort food organ and a string quartet. Audience Tickets are $10, $15, $18; Child or Pleasanton Art Walks, meet at 9 a.m. Frame, Livermore. 925-443 3388. in the Vineyards on December 1st served up with Smokin' Hot Jazz every will have the opportunity to sing along Senior: $6, $9, $12. Tickets available in the parking lot next to City Hall, 200 Space is limited. & 2nd, Enjoy a full-flight tasting of 1st and 3rd Wednesday Mission Gold with a number of Christmas Carols. at www.firehousearts.org, 925-931- Old Bernal Avenue (adjacent to the Art Critique & Coffee Hangs at Coffee award-winning wines in a comfort- Jazz Band. Dinner orders begin at 6 Betty Gail Hunt directs the handbell 4848, or at the Firehouse Arts Center public library). Guest leaders Nancy Ali, Friday at 10 a.m. sharing latest able, friendly environment. Savor pm; music from 7:30. choir, while Diana Cefalo will be the Box Office, 4444 Railroad Avenue, and Gary Harrington, will lead the work and a gentle critique to fine tune homemade, 3-Bean Supper Soup and Chris Bradley's Jazz Band, plays at the guest director. Lee Lipsker will narrate Pleasanton. Tickets are also available walk on Dec. 8. World Walk to Well- work. Original paintings from a group roast s'mores at the new fire pit. Local Sunol Jazz Cafe (In the Center of Sunol) the program. A reception will follow the at the Amador Theater 2 hours prior to ness hosts Saturday morning walks of Local Professional and Emerging artisans will showcase their custom the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month Saturday evening performance. There the performance. for all who are interested. Contact artists, with a New Theme, create New designed jewelry and works of art 7:30-9:30 p.m. The band features real is no admission charge. For additional Bay Area Children's Theatre presents [email protected] to Works each month. Grab a cup of cof- throughout the weekend, while holiday Jazz from the 1920's. information, please see the web site, Pinkalicious, Dec. 23, 11 a.m. and receive (free) weekly e-mails of walk fee and pull up a chair to hear what we carolers set the tone on Saturday. or www.laspositascollege.edu/perform- www.centerpointechurch.org or call the 2 p.m. musical, Dougherty Valley locations. have to say and enjoy Original Fine Art. Special holiday gift packs, autographed ingarts office at 925-846-4436. Performing Arts Center, Albion Rd., San Livermore Art Association Fall Show, For more information Google: Poetry on bottles, and case discounts are Pacific Chamber Symphony, Fri., Nov. James P. Connelly with Katsy Chappel, Ramon; sanramonperformingarts.com. Nov. 1-30, Robert Livermore Commu- Canvas Pleasanton or call Claudette available. Noon – 5 p.m., Dec. 1st & 30, 8 p.m. Handel: Messiah with Comedy@Firehouse Arts, Dec. 12, 973-3343. nity Center, 4444 East Ave., Livermore. 510 543-4776. 2nd, 8195 Crane Ridge Rd., Livermore, soloists and the PCS Chorus and 7:30 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 On view during regular hours. www. Pleasanton Poetry League, Catch the www.CharlesRVineyards.com. grand finale Hallelujah Sing-along. Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. COMEDY LivermoreArtAssociation.com. Wave and Play with Poetic Journaling Cedar Mountain Winery, Holidays in Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., firehousearts.org Comedy@ Firehouse Arts, James P. Golden Decade Photographers, the lead by local Artist/Poet Claudette the Vineyards, Dec. 1 and 2, noon to Livermore. www.bankheadtheater.org Tingstad & Rumbel Holiday Show, Connolly, headliner, Katsy Chappell, Legacy of Ansel Adams and Minor McDermott. E-Mail interest to Poetry- 5 p.m. weekend of Holiday Cheer. Cup or 373-6800. Dec. 15, 8 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, opener, Wednesday, December 12, White, Figurehead Gallery exhibition, [email protected]. Meetings at of complimentary Hot Mulled Wine. Ohlone College Chops Big Band, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. 2012 at 7:30 pm. Firehouse Arts Cen- Oct. 31-Dec. 1. 2222 2nd St., Suite 21, local locations. All Poetry enthusiasts B.Y.O.B (Bottle your own Port!) Dec 2nd conducted by Ken Crowell, Fri., Nov. firehousearts.org. ter is located at 4444 Railroad Avenue, Livermore. 337-1799. welcome. Get on the PPL mailing list: Only: Earl has created a special “Port 30, 8 p.m., 18-piece big band performs Broadway Star Jeri Sager, Presents A Pleasanton. For tickets, call 931-4848 Seasons of the Valley by Bettie Goos- [email protected] Blend” for this event only; bring clean collection of tunes including Gershwin's Very Jeri Christmas, Dec. 16, 2 p.m. or go to www.firehousearts.org man, An exhibit of large oil paintings Piano lessons, Private and small group 375 ml wine bottle, fill, and cork and "Summertime," Porter's "Just One of Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Big Fat Kiss Off XX, Will Durst and Com- and gicle'es depicting the "Seasons of piano lessons available for beginning label it for only $10 per bottle; 750 ml Those Things," and "It's You Or No One" Ave., Pleasanton. www.firehousearts. pany. Dec. 28, 8 p.m. Bankhead The- the Valley" currently on display through students. Lessons include playing bottle for $20; empty bottles available arranged by Rob Lussier, among others. org. ater, 2400 First St., Livermore. www. early January 2013 at the Purple Or- practice, theory, expression and an for additional $1. Guests are encour- Smith Center at Ohlone College, 43600 Annual Winter Band Concert, Amador bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. chid Resort and Spa, 4549 Cross Rd., introduction to various types of music aged to bring an unwrapped toy to Mission Blvd., Fremont. Smith Center Valley High School, Thurs., Dec. 18, Livermore. Art can be viewed every and composers. Private classes are benefit the "Toys for Tots Foundation." Box Office: (510) 659-6031 or www. 7:30 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 DANCE day from 8am to 6pm except when $15 per half hour and group lessons 7000 Tesla Rd., Livermore. smithcenter.com. First St., Livermore. www.bankhead- Friday Evening Group Dance! Learn an event is being hosted. For more are $12 per student per half hour (up Gingerbread Class & Wine Tasting, Livermore-Amador Symphony, 50th theater.org or 373-6800. how to dance with great instructors information call (925)606-8855. to 4 students). For more information Wente Vineyards Vineyard Tasting anniversary season, Dec. 1, 8 p.m. Chanticleer Christmas, Dec. 19, 7:30 from It's All About Dancing, new dance Man at Nature: Using and Leaving, please call (925) 216-7231 email Room, 5050 Arroyo Road, Livermore. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., every week from Salsa, Tango, Swing exhibit Harrington Gallery at the [email protected] or visit Dec. 5, 7 to 9 p.m. Build gingerbread Livermore. 2400 First St., Livermore. Livermore. www.bankheadtheater.org and more. Group lesson starts at 7:30, Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad http://childrensartclassesprojects. house, taste wine paired with holiday www.bankheadtheater.org or 373- or 373-6800. followed by open dance until 9:45 in Ave., Pleasanton. Nov. 7-Dec. 15. blogspot.com/. treats. Tack holiday sweater contest. 6800. San Ramon Symphonic Band Holiday our new location at the Bothwell Arts www.firehousearts.org. Young Artists' Studio has openings in its Reservations required. www.wen- Tapestry, combined vocal and handbell Concert, Dec. 21, 7 p.m. Dougherty Center, 2466 8th St., Livermore; 925- Artist Norma Webb oil paintings at school year art classes for youngsters tevineyards.com/ ensemble, "Dear Santa, A Musical Valley Performing Arts Center, Albion 449-9292. $15. Wente Vineyards Estate Winery, 5565 in grades 2 through high school and Wine Pairing Dinner at Terra Mia Res- Potpourri of Yuletide Wishes." Saturday, Rd., San Ramon; sanramonperformin- Handel’s Messiah Ballet performed Tesla Road, Livermore for the month beyond. Classes will begin in October. taurant, flavors of Calabria paired with December 1 at Trinity Lutheran Church, garts.com. 973-3343. by Anastasis Ballet Company Dec. 1 of November. All kinds of drawing and painting as wine selections from Livermore Valley 1225 Hopyard Road in Pleasanton. Willie K's Hawaiian Christmas, Dec. 21, at 7 p.m. and Dec. 2 at 2 p.m. Grand Body of Movement Art Exhibit by Linda well as printmaking and sculpture are wineries of Steven Kent and La Ro- 7 PM and are free to the public. 8 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Theatre, 715 Central Ave., Tracy. For Ryan at Cuda Ridge Wines through Jan. offered in our large and well equipped chelle. Thursday, December 6, 2012, 6 Donations accepted. Visit www. St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. more information, please visit www. 6, 2013. The winery is located at 5385 home studio. Peggy Frank has been -8.30pm. Reservations recommended, TapestryRingersandSingers.org or call org or 373-6800. anastasisballet.org or contact info@ East Avenue in Livermore. Regular providing art experiences for valley please call restaurant 925.456.3333 - Susana Taylor, 925-768-8025. Moscow Boys Choir Christmas, Dec. anastasisballet.org. Tickets at $15-$25 Winery Hours: 12-4:30 Fri-Sun; Avail- youth for over 30 years. Contact her by www.terramiarestaurant.com. $100.00 Jazz Night Concert, Sat., Dec. 1, 8 p.m. 22, 7:30 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 may be purchased at www.atthegrand. able by appt. at 510.304.0914. email at [email protected] or by per person (tax and gratuity included). Las Positas College presents vocal First St., Livermore. www.bankhead- org or 209-831-6858. Works by artist Maryann Kot, “Cele- phone at (925) 443-8755. Terra Mia Restaurant, 4040 East Ave., and instrumental jazz standards. theater.org or 373-6800. The Nutcracker, Valley Dance Theatre brating Reality,” will feature paintings Livermore. Las Positas College Barbara Mertes New Year's Eve with Flash Cadillac, presents seasonal favorite features in oil, watercolor, and colored pencil. WINERY EVENTS Wood Family Vineyards will be sampling Center for the Arts, 3000 Campus Dec. 31, 8 p.m. Bankhead Theater, classic choreography paired with The show is open Nov. 20 through Jan. Wine Pairing Dinner at Terra Mia Res- five wines at Gene's Fine Foods in Hill Dr., Livermore. Advance tickets at 2400 First St., Livermore. www.bank- Tchaikovsky's score performed live by 20, 2013 at the Prudential CA Realty, taurant, Livermore, flavors of Calabria Pleasanton on Sat., Dec. 8 from www.brownpapertickets.com or call headtheater.org or 373-6800. the Livermore-Amador Symphony. Dec. 1780 First St., Livermore. A reception paired with great wine selections from 2 - 5 p.m.. Gene's Fine Foods has 1-800-838-3006. Further information 8, 9, 15, 16 at 2 p.m. Dec. 8, 14, 15, with the artist will be held 5 to 7 p.m. Livermore Valley wineries of Steven placed a new order of Wood Family at 424-1100 or www.laspositascollege. ON THE STAGE 16 at 8 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 on Tues., Dec. 4. For office hours Kent and La Rochelle. Thurs., Dec. 2, 6 Vineyards wines just in time for the edu/performingarts All My Sons, Douglas Morrisson Theatre First St., Livermore. www.bankhead- contact Cher Wollard 925-824-4824 p.m. Reservations recommended, call holidays. A sampling will be available Pleasanton Community Concert Band, closes its “Family Portraits” 2012 theater.org or 373-6800. [email protected] the restaurant, 456-3333. www.ter- on December 8th. The Wine Steward "A Holiday Rhapsody," Sun., December season with Arthur Miller’s 1947 clas- Collage Collection, Livermore Library ramiarestaurant.com. $100 per person in Pleasanton is also carrying a new 2, Holiday Concert, 2 p.m. Firehouse sic. Douglas Morrisson Theatre, 22311 AUDITIONS/COMPETITIONS show hosted by Livermore Art Associa- (tax and gratuity included). 4040 East supply of Wood Family Vineyards. www. Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleas- N. Third Street, in Hayward. November Auditions, 2013 Sunol Repertory The- tion. Dec. 1-30. On view during regular Ave., Livermore. woodfamilyvineyards.com anton. www.firehousearts.org. 15, 2012 – December 9, 2012; Fridays atre production, "Murder in the House library hours. 1188 So. Livermore Ave. The Winemaker's Pour House, Be Happy Jeff Bordes & Friends: A Jazzy-Funky and Saturdays at 8:00 PM; Saturday of Horrors." Auditions Thurs., Dec. 6, 7 At "Happy Hour" with Livermore Valley MUSIC/CONCERTS Christmas comes to Firehouse Arts December 1, 2012 at 2:00 PM and p.m. in the Sunol Glen School Audito- MEETINGS/CLASSES Wine. Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri. 4 to 6 Music every Saturday in the tasting Center Sat, Dec. 8, 8 p.m. Special 8:00 PM. Sundays at 2:00 PM. $10 rium 11601 Main St., Sunol. Directed Figure Drawing Workshop, every p.m. Buy a glass of Livermore Valley room from 12 to 4; open every day guests include local favorites organist/ preview, $20 Sat. matinee; $28 Thurs., by Lynn Kozma and produced by Kathy Friday 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Artists Wine or Flight and order a flatbread if the gate is open and for sure on vocalist Don Lewis, The CoolTones Big Fri., Sat. eve., Sun. matinee. (510) Morris. A Who Done it Murder Mystery bring their own materials and easels. for half price. Take the wine puzzle Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 11 to Band, among others. Sold out last 881-6777; www.dmtonline.org Play. Rehearsals are Tues. & Thurs. Open to all artists. Professional artist challenge. Ask the wait staff for the 5. Red Feather Winery, 5700 Greenville year. Tickets $15, $20, $25; Child $12; Christmas Carol, Nov. 30-Dec. 15, San 7-9pm. Performances Fri. & Sat. 8pm models (nude). No instructor. Students wine puzzle. Information call (925) Rd., Livermore. Information at 449- Senior $22; group discounts available. Ramon Community Theatre presents March 2 to 23. For more information under 18 need written parental 215-2656 or visit www.winemaker- 1871 or www.redfeatherwinery.com Purchase online at www.firehousearts. Bah Humbug! Scrooge’s Christmas call Sandi @ 925.862.9006 permission to attend. Cost $20 per spourhouse.com. Blacksmith Square, music every Sat- org, 925-931-4848, or in person at Carol, Front Row Theater, Dougherty Forever Plaid, auditions, Tri-Valley session. Bothwell Arts Center, 2466 Holidays in the Vineyards, Livermore urday 3 to 6 p.m. in the courtyard, 21 Firehouse Box Office, 4444 Railroad Station Community Center, 17011 Repertory Theatre production. Auditions THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 9

at 1:00 and 3:30 P.M. at Our Savior Fall 2012 lecture series, Congregation ci.pleasanton.ca.us/ Lutheran Ministries, 1385 S. Livermore Beth Emek: Dec. 5 scholar Ken Cohen Ravenswood Victorian Yuletide, Sun., Ave, Livermore. For the 21st year in who will trace the creation of Tel-Aviv Dec. 9, noon to 4 p.m. Music, enter- a row, this musical celebration of in the early 20th century. Admission is tainment, carriage ride, food, crafts, the season will feature children aged $10. All lectures will begin at 7:30 pm. and more. Ravenswood Historic Site, kindergarten through high school per- Congregation Beth Emek is located at 2647 Arroyo Road, Livermore. Free forming choral music accompanied by 3400 Nevada Court in Pleasanton. For admission. Docent tours. professional chamber musicians and more information: 510.318.6453. The Celtic Christmas Concert and Gather- fine harpist, Dan Levitan. Repertoire series is sponsored by Congregation ing, Sun., Dec. 9, 6 to 9 p.m. Music includes traditional carols sung in Beth Emek and the Jewish Federation by Pog Mo Thain and special guest, English, French, Latin and Spanish, as of the East Bay. Michael Mullen. Bring a potluck dish well as not so familiar gems in Basque, Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Cer- to share. $15 at the door, children Hebrew and by composers such as emony, Thurs., Nov. 29, 7 - 8:30 p.m. 12 and under free. Benefitting the Leonard Bernstein, Zoltan Kodaly at the Dublin Civic Center. Bothwell Arts Center. 447-ARTS, www. and R. Vaughan Williams. Audience St. Bart’s Dickens Faire, Saturday, bankheadtheater.org. participation. Tickets are $8-$20. For Dec. 1, and Sunday, Dec. 2, at St. Journey to Living Bethlehem, Dec. 13- information and ticket purchase, go to Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, 678 17, Thurs.-Mon. Walk through a 30,000 Cantabella.org/tickets. Enos Way, Livermore. Costumed actors sq replica of the village of Bethlehem will present excerpts from Dickens’ over 2000 years ago to remember the OPERA A Christmas Carol; craft “shoppes” true meaning of Christmas. Interactive Amahl and the Night Visitors, Saturday, will line a Victorian London street in live theatre production. The production December 8, 2 and 5 p.m., First the parish hall. Tea will be served is interfaith, free to the public, 6:30 to Presbyterian Church, 2020 Fifth St., with scones and pasties. Faire hours 9 p.m. repeats every thirty minutes. Livermore. Tickets $12-$25, purchase are from 10 a.m. to 5 pm Saturday, The event is adjacent to St. Michael's at www.livermorevalleyopera.com and Dec. 1, and from 1-5 p.m. Sunday, School, corner of Third and Church St., at the door. Dec. 2. Donations are recommended. Livermore. journeytolivingbethlehem@ Metropolitan Opera Schedule, screen- Parking is free. Proceeds will support gmail.com 510-377-9711 ing at Regal Hacienda Cinema in Saint Bartholomew’s Church and its Stories and speeches, Las Positas Dublin: La Clemenza di Tito, Dec. 1, outreach programs. (925) 447-3289 or College forensics program. Fri., Dec. “Hurry to the Stable,” a free concert of Advent and Christmas music, will be presented 9:55 a.m., Dec. 19, 6:30 p.m.; Un Ballo www.saintbartslivermore.com. 14, 7 p.m. Suggested donation $10. in Maschera, Dec. 8, 9:55 a.m., Jan. Holidays on the Farm, Saturdays, Las Positas College Barbara Mertes at Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, 1385 South Livermore Avenue, Livermore, on 9, 6:30 p.m.; Aida, Dec. 15, 9:55 a.m., December 1 & 8 at Forest Home Farms Center for the Arts, 3000 Campus Sunday, December 2, at 4:00 pm. The concert includes choral groups, handbell Jan. 16, 6:30 p.m.; Les Troyens, Jan. Historic Park, 19953 San Ramon Hill Dr., Livermore. Advance tickets at 5, 9 a.m., Jan. 23, 6:30 p.m.; Maria Valley Blvd. in San Ramon from 10:00 www.brownpapertickets.com or call choirs, and brass ensemble, as well as a flute trio, violin piece, vocal duet, and the Stuarda, Jan. 19, 9:55 a.m., Feb. 6, a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on both Saturdays. 1-800-838-3006. Further information contemporary praise team. Refreshments will follow the concert in the school gym. 6:30 p.m.; Rigoletto, Feb. 16, 9:55 Admission is free. Two of Santa’s at 424-1100 or www.laspositascollege. a.m., March 6, 6:30 p.m.; Parsifal, reindeer will make a special visit. Enjoy edu/performingarts March 2, 9 a.m., March 20, 6:30 p.m.; entertainment, tractor rides, Victorian Holiday Tea, Sat., Dec. 15, 1 p.m. Sat., Dec. 1, 3 p.m., call backs (by Hawthorn Suites (March 23, 2013). For chorale.org or (925) 866-4003. Francesca da Rimini, March 16, 9 a.m., ornament making, sheep herding Heritage Park and Museums, corner of invitation only) Sat., Dec. 8. 1020 Ser- entry information and entry form, go to Pacific Masterworks Chorus, Winter April 3, 6:30 p.m.; Giulio Cesare, April demos, tours of the farm & Glass Donlon Way and Dublin Blvd., Dublin. pentine Lane, Suite 101, Pleasanton. the Livermore Valley Winegrowers As- Concert, December 8, 7:30 p.m. Asbury 27, 9 a.m., May 15, 6:30 p.m. House Museum, and special vendors. $25 per person. 452-2101. Prepare 32 bars up tempo 50's pop; sociation website at www.lvwine.org United Methodist Church, 4743 East For info call (925) 973-3284. Historic photos sought, Pleasanton art accompanist provided, no tapes, no Avenue, Livermore. Buy tickets online, MISCELLANEOUS Holiday Faire, Dec. 1, noon to 6 p.m. patrons, Nancy and Gary Harrington, a cappella. All roles open, no pay, no MOVIES purchase at the door, or contact Tick- Political Issues Book Club meets the caroling at 3:30 p.m., Heritage Park have created a historical mural of AEA. PErformances will be at the Vil- Classic Film Series, "Make 'em Laugh," [email protected] 4th Tuesday of each month, and reads and Museums, corner of Donlon Way Pleasanton’s pioneer founders. They lage Theatre in Danville March 22-30. hosted by Candy Klaschus, film histo- Las Positas College choir, orchestra books about issues and trends that and Dublin Blvd., Dublin. Old fashioned have been unable to find any photos To sign up for an auditoin slot email rian and coordinator of the Humanities and wind ensemble perform choruses are driving current affairs in both the St. Nick, old fashioned ornaments in or pictures of three of the founders: [email protected]. For Program at Las Positas College; from Handel's Messiah and other national and international arenas. school barn, Kolb House decorated for Walter Briggs/Meadowlark Dairy; questions, please contact the producer presented by Las Positas College and seasonal favorites. Thurs., Dec. 13, Topics that have been covered include "A Farm Christmas Morning." Unique Tom Orloff/Orloff Dairy; Con Nevin/ at (925) 899-3451 the Pleasanton Library, Thurs., Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. Las Positas College Barbara politics, governance, economics, mili- handcrafted items available for Hop Farming Company. They have Open auditions, for Tri-Valley Haven’s 7 p.m. The Lady Eve. Free admission. Mertes Center for the Arts, 3000 Cam- tary affairs, history, sociology, science, purchase, as well as holiday foods. searched the Pleasanton Museum on Production of Eve Ensler’s The Vagina www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us/services/ pus Hill Dr., Livermore. Advance tickets the climate, and religion. Contact Rich Free admission. $5 wristband for craft Main, met with local historian, Charles Monologues. The show will be per- library at www.brownpapertickets.com or call at 872-7923, for further questions making and tractor ride. 452-2101. Huff, visited/spoken with the historical formed at the Mertes Center for the 1-800-838-3006. Further information Museum on Main, preschool pre- Home for the Holidays, Dec. 1, noon to societies of both Livermore and Dublin. Arts at Las Positas College on Friday CHORAL at 424-1100 or www.laspositascollege. literacy program, M.o.M.’s Reading 4 p.m. downtown Livermore, carriage The Harringtons are asking for help and Saturday, March 1st and 2nd Ohlone College Community Chorale edu/performingarts Time. For ages 2 to 5 and families, free rides, snow in Lizzie Fountain, www. in locating pictures of these three 2013. Experienced and inexperienced presents Holiday Prelude directed Sing-It-Yourself Messiah, Valley Concert reading program, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. livermoredowntown.com historical figures. Anyone who has actresses of all ages and ethnic by Darryl Guzman, Dec. 1, 3 p.m. Chorale, join in singing Part I of Reading at 10 a.m. with theme crafts Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Parade lived in the area for many years and backgrounds are welcome (women only Centerville Presbyterian Church, 4360 Handel’s great masterpiece, including following. Donations appreciated. No and Tree Lighting Ceremonies, who might have in their family albums please, transgender females welcome). Central Ave, Fremont. Concert featuring the Hallelujah Chorus. Fri., Dec. 14, reservations required. Large groups or parade 5 p.m. on Main Street followed any pictures of any of these three men, Auditions will be held on Wed., Courtney's "A Musicological Journey 7:30 p.m. Trinity Lutheran Church, playgroups please phone in advance: by the lighting of a holiday tree in please contact them at nancyrh1@ December 12 and Fri., December 14, through the Twelve Days of Christmas," 1225 Hopyard Rd., Pleasanton. Tickets 925.462.2766 or email: education@ front of the Museum on Main. www. sbcglobal.net or call 925-846-9757. 2012 from 5 - 9 pm at the Coffee Ali in Leavitt's "Missa Festiva," and more. are $10 each. www.valleyconcertcho- museumonmain.org. 2012 M.o.M.’s Pleasanton. Please contact Christine to $5-$10 at Smith Center Box Office: rale.org or (925) 866-4003. Reading. December 12, Light Up the schedule your audition at (925) 667- 510-659-6031 or www.smithcenter. Cantabella Children’s Chorus, winter Seasons. The Museum on Main is 2707 or Christine@trivalleyhaven. com. holiday concert, Counting the Joys of located at 603 Main Street in historic org. Please bring a current photo and Valley Concert Chorale, Holiday Songs Christmas, Saturday, December 15 downtown Pleasanton. prepare a1 – 2 minute monologue (not of Joy: The Chorale’s annual holiday from The Vagina Monologues please) performances of familiar and tradi- to present to the Director. For more tional carols will fill your spirit with the information, please contact Christine at joy of the season. Cantabella Children’s [email protected] or (925) Chorus joins the Chorale for an enjoy- 667-2707. able musical experience. Sun., Dec. 2, 2013 Livermore Valley Wine Country 3 p.m. Trinity Lutheran Church, 1225 Photo Contest, enter for a change Hopyard Rd., Pleasanton; and Sat., to win a one-year membership to Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m. First Presbyterian Livermore Valley Wine Country (that Church, 4th & L Streets, Livermore. means complimentary tastings for two Tickets are $20 advance, $25 at the at more than 40 wineries!), 2 tickets door. High school and college students to Barrel Tasting Weekend (March 23 $10 with valid student ID. Children 12 & 24, 2013) with a one-night stay at and under are free. www.valleyconcert- 10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 Picazo Wine Poured and Sold at McGrail Two Primo Vino Ventures Seal a Deal by Harry Stoll Winery’s spacious tasting Joan pours three Liver- ful from day one. In the barrel room, offering a Picazo Cabernet Thursday dusk, room, alongside McGrail more Valley Merlots—a At a counter at the a nice spread of salads, Sauvignon when McGrail November 15: the rain wines. 2005, a 2006, and a 2007, north end of the tasting meats and cheeses invites. grows and produces it, can’t decide to write on On Thursday, Novem- all from Picazo Livermore room, with a view of the Some celebrants are speed Mark wrote, ”We plan to the slated sky, but inside ber 1, a joint press release Valley vineyards. Some headlights on the Altamont eating. An eater points at bring the focus back to the the high wide and bright from Heather McGrail, tasters spin their glass high searching in the distant an inviting browned some- Livermore Valley appella- McGrail Vineyards and marketer for McGrail, and in the light to enjoy the dark, tasters try the 2007 thing wrapped in bacon. tion.” Winery tasting room, the Pam Picazo, announced the rich ruby color then contin- Picazo Proprietary Red. “What’s that?” Responds The tasting room also decision is clear: Jose and arrangement. “It’s a natural ue the twirl in front of their It’s a Bordeaux blend of a woman, “If it’s wrapped has a few tall tables with Pam Picazo will continue partnership.” chest to free the aroma, Cabernet Sauvignon from in bacon it has got to be nicely curved small bench- to grow Merlot in their Although the Picazo eyes closed so only the both Napa and Livermore good.” She was so right. es, on which sat some vineyard on Kalthoff Com- brand intends to concen- nose is involved. “Black valleys, and Merlot from Near the food, a 2008 tasters. Among them was mons, but are getting out trate on Livermore Valley cherry,” is the predominant Picazo Vineyards. Oh my, Picazo Cabernet Sauvignon Livermore Valley eno afi- of wine production. Picazo grapes, it now offers some verdict and sensitive tasters let’s hear it for Bordeaux from Napa Valley is being cionado Jim Lipman, who wines are now sold in the Napa Valley products. Cel- claim cassis and anise. blends and especially for poured. This is no time to had a world of tidbits about McGrail Vineyards and ebrants stand at the long The winemaker notes this genius one. It sells for exhibit envy of that prime the local wine scene, and polished bar. Pourer Joan on the 2007 read, “The $45. spot, this is a rich one expressed approval of the Roland, who is friendly, wine opens with lavender, Veteran winemaker replete with those whomp- Picazo offerings. Also at Tri-Valley but sans gush, offers a cassis, and a ménage of Mark Clarin is the wine- ing tannins to light up one the tables were Mark’s 2010 Napa Valley Sauvi- baking spices.” Ooo la la, maker for both McGrail your life. It fills the mouth straightforward parents, Rotary Collects gnon Blanc. The vineyard a spicy ménage. All the Vineyards and Winery once more with feeling, Don and Sylvia Clarin. She is cooled by breezes com- Merlots are grown in grav- and Picazo Vineyards. He and tastes of black currant, is forthcoming and consid- Warm Coats ing off of San Pablo Bay elly soil 200 feet above the wanders easily, looking at cedar, and tobacco. It sells erate in her observations. Tri-Valley Rotary is so the fruit matures slowly, valley floor. They sell from home in down home jeans. for $125. He is gregarious and plays collecting and distribution say the tasting notes. This $65 to $80. A ponytail trails down the The 2008 McGrail Vine- the banjo. coats to local school age is a blend of the familiar Marketer Heather broad back of his plaid yards and Winery Reserve Picazo wines have been children whose family may Clone 1 and Musque. McGrail goes easily from shirt. He made Picazo wine Livermore Valley Cabernet made at a custom crush not be able to afford warm Honeysuckle plays in group to group. Behind the from its inception in 2004, Sauvignon was named Best facility at Caldwell Caves coats for their children. the aroma, which is also very pretty pleasant face is and joined McGrail as a Red Wine in the 2012 San in Napa. Beginning with Donation of a new or stimulated by gooseberries. a hair-trigger mind. “This winemaker for the 2009 Francisco Chronicle Wine the 2012 vintage, recently gently used coat for children It’s not grassy, but a classi- is the perfect marriage,” vintage. Try any wine from Competition, beating more harvested, all Picazo wines ages 2-16 will benefit those cal example of Sauvignon says she, also pointing out these two wineries and than 5000 entrants. will be made by Mark at in need. Adult and infant Blanc. Sells for $29. that McGrail was success- you’ll know he’s ace. When asked by e-mail if McGrail Vineyards and sized coats will also be ac- there were any difficulty in Winery. cepted. Coats can be dropped off through December 8. Dis- tribution is set for Dec. 15. Collection locations are the following: Club Sport Members of Brownie Troop 30321 (pictured at left), in Pleasanton, 7090 Johnson conjunction with The Art Glass Studio, spent Black Drive, Pleasanton; Hair- Friday gathering warm coats for fellow Livermore lights Salon, 4307 Valley Residents. While others were hitting the malls and Ave Suite F, Pleasanton; shopping stores, Girl Scouts from Livermore troops Bank of America Down- 30321, 32511, 31733, 30524 and 30309 were conducting town Pleasanton (on Main); a One Warm Coat Drive at the downtown Art Glass Pacific Coast Seed, 533 Studio Location. The Scouts manned their stations Hawthorne Place, Liver- from 9:30 am until 7:30 pm and were able to collect 265 more; Casse Croute Bak- coats. These coats, jackets and sweaters will benefit ery, 50 S. Livermore Ave (downtown Livermore near friends, families and fellow Livermore Residents who intersection with First St.); need a little extra warmth this holiday season. Troop Coffee Co., 5424 Sunol Leader BaBette Munoz and Jennifer Faria stated, "We Boulevard, Pleasanton in plan to undertake more events such as this throughout Raley's Shopping Center. the year. It's important to teach our girls the meaning For information send an of Giving Back. Many Thanks to Roberta, owner of The email to info@trivalleyro- Art Glass Studio, fellow troops within Cresta Blanca and tary.org or contact Bonnie all the parents that came out to support this successful at 443-5450 or visit www. event." trivalleyrotary.org.

THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012 11

(Organizations wishing to run notices or Tri-tip; and Dessert. $26 per person. To CA., general meeting, birthday luncheon, and able to do so. CRIL maintains offices org/ All are welcome. org (925) 829-4793. in Bulletin Board, send information to PO reserve a table contact Phyllis Couper, 925- Dec. 8, 1 p.m. in Dublin, RSVP by Dec. 3 in Hayward, Fremont and Livermore to The deaf community is invited to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 486 Box 1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care 462-4931 or email coupclan1962@pacbell. to Marge 828-5124. Lunch in Livermore, provide information and referrals and provide worship at First Presbyterian Church in S. J Street, Livermore. 9:00 a.m. worship of Bulletin Board or email information to net by December 7. Dec. 12, 11:30 a.m. RSVP by Dec. 10 to community education at senior centers and Livermore, where ASL translation will be service. Bible Study/Sunday School 10:20. [email protected]. Include name of Tri-Valley Chapter 397 of the National Janet, 443-3317. Breakfast/lunch in San affordable housing complexes to residents provided every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. The Bible Basics Class, which explores the main organization, meeting date, time, place and Active and Retired Federal Employees Ramon, Dec. 16, noon, RSVP by Dec. 13 to of Southern Alameda County. The Tri-Valley church is located on the corner of 4th and teachings of the Bible, meets at 7:00 Sunday theme or subject. Phone number and contact Association (NARFE), Federal employees Hilda, 398-8808. Happy hour in Pleasanton, office is located at 3311 Pacific Avenue, L streets. night. Call 371-6200 or email pmjrmueller@ person should also be included. Deadline is and retirees are invited to attend a monthly Dec. 20, 5 p.m. RSVP by Dec. 18 to Marge, Livermore 94550 and can be reached by Faith Chapel Assembly of God, 6656 gmail.com for more info. 5 p.m. Friday.) lunchtime meeting on Thursday, December 828-5124. Lunch and optional shopping in phone at (925) 371-1531, by FAX at (925) Alisal St., Pleasanton, Sunday School for Tri-Valley Church of Christ, 4481 Holiday boutique, Saturday, December 13, at Vic’s All Star Kitchen, 201 A Main Blackhawk, Dec. 27, noon, RSVP by Dec. 23 373-5034 or by e-mail at abril.tamayo@ all ages 9:15 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m., East Avenue, Livermore; 447-433.3 www. 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. featuring handmade St. in Pleasanton, to learn about a national to Marsha, 830-8483. Lunch in Livermore, cril-online.org. All services are free. Children’s Church 11:15 a.m. Women's Bible trivalleychurch.org. Update on classes for crafts by local artisans, delicious food, fun association that advocates for them. At- Dec. 30, 1 p.m., RSVP by Dec. 27 to Ruby, study Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Intercessory The Story 9:00 a.m. to 10:00a.m.. Worship arts and crafts, free make and takes for tendees need not be NARFE members. 462-9636. RELIGION prayer 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. Please call Service 10:15 to 11:30 a.m. kids and adults, music and all day raffles. Formed in 1921, No host luncheon 11:30 GNON’s A Toy Drive, New unwrapped First Presbyterian Church, 2020 Fifth office at 846-8650 for weekly programs. Lynnewood United Methodist Church, First 50 people get a prize. Livermore Valley a.m. A business meeting at 1 p.m. Currently toys will be collected for the Toys for Tots Street, Livermore. 9:00 a.m. Contemplative Trinity, 557 Olivina Ave., Livermore. Sun- 4444 Black Ave., Pleasanton. Sunday wor- Charter School fund-raising, 2451 Portola elections for chapter officers will be held. program at the holiday party on Thurs., Dec. Service in the Chapel, 10:30 Traditional day worship at 8:30 and 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. ship at 9:00 and 10:30 am with childcare Avenue, Livermore. Look for chapter signs at the restaurant side 6, 5 p.m. . Girasole Grill Restaurant, 3180 Service in the Sanctuary and children’s Sunday school or Bible study for all ages and Sunday school at 10:30 am. Rev. Holiday Boutique, Sat., Dec. 1, 10 a.m. entrance. To request more information, direc- Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton. Cost is $10/pp program. For more information www.fpcl.us at 9:45 a.m. Awana is Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Heather Leslie Hammer, minister. All are wel- to 4 p.m. at Mendenhall Middle School, tions or transportation to the meeting, please for members and $15/pp for non-members. or 925-447-2078. Wednesday nights there is adult Bible study come. www.lynnewood.org, 925 846-0221. 1701 El Padro Dr., Livermore. Local artisans call Gary at (925) 373-6758. Background on RSVP: To [email protected] by December Tri-Valley Bible Church, 2346 Walnut at 6:45 and NRG and Re.Gen for youth, and Christmas Nativity Display, St. featured. Vendors are still needed Contact NARFE is on the Web at www.narfe.org. 4. St., Livermore, holds Sunday worship at children's choir for kids. Child care during all Elizabeth Seton Chapel, 4001 Stoneridge Dr., J.Meyer @ [email protected] Livermore Library Board, meets 7 p.m. Love-A-Doll Club meets on the second 10 a.m. with Sunday school for all ages events. 447-1848, www.trinitylivermore.org. Pleasanton. Dec. 2 after 9 and 11 a.m. and Holiday Book Sale, Sat., Dec. 1, noon to Dec. 6 at the Civic Center Library, 1188 So. Thursday morning of each month. Share at 9 a.m. Children's classes during adult St. Charles Borromeo, 1315 Lomitas 4 and 6:30 p.m. Masses. Sponsored by the 3 p.m. Dublin Library, 200 Civic Plaza, Dub- Livermore Ave. An agenda will be posted at the love, knowledge and collection of dolls worship service. AWANA children's program Ave., Livermore. Meditation groups following Italian Catholic Federation Branch 285 & lin. Selection of hardcover books in excellent the library 72 hours prior to the meeting. and doll related items. For more detailed Wednesdays at 6 p.m. 449-4403 or www. the John Main tradition, every Monday 5:30 CCOP Diversity Committee. condition, ideal for gift giving; children’s Armchair Travelers, a monthly program, information, call 925-447-5149. Tri-ValleyBibleChurch.com. p.m. and 7 p.m. For details, contact Claire La Light of the World, concert celebrating books, holiday books, gourmet cookbooks, will take place at the Livermore Civic Center Healing Touch for Tri-Valley Veterans, Unitarian Universalist, 1893 N. Vasco Scola at 447-9800. the seasons of Advent and Christmas. Fri., gift books, and more. Information, call the Library Thurs., Dec. 13, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. December 8. Available time slots: 9:00 a.m., Rd., Livermore. 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. Centerpointe Church, 3410 Cornerstone Dec. 14 starting at 7 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Dublin Library (925) 828-1315. Blanche Angelo will share photographs of her 10:15 a.m., or 11:30 a.m. Free Healing Information 447-8747. Court, Pleasanton. Services: 9 a.m. blended Seton Church, 4001 Stoneridge Dr., Pleas- Annual Holiday Boutique, Ladies Aux- adventures day hiking in Arizona, Nevada, Touch sessions for active, inactive, combat Congregation Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada with choir and band. Childcare offered for anton. Catholic Community of Pleasanton iliary of the Fleet Reserve Association Unit and Utah. Blanche will show photographs of or retired Veterans from any military branch. Court, Pleasanton. Information 931-1055. infants through age 6 and children start in (CCOP) adult choir, teen choir, children's 287 will present the event on Dec. 8, 9 a.m. Chiricahua National Monument, Saguaro Na- Healing Touch Program is endorsed by Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, affiliated with the worship service. 10:40 a.m. (new time) choir, cherub choir, Filipino choir, Spanish to 3 p.m. at the Veterans Building, 522 South tional Park, Great Basin National Park, Valley the American Holistic Nurses Association. the Congress of Secular Jewish Organiza- contemporary worship led by a band. Sunday choir, cantors and instrumentalists. Food and "L" St., Livermore. 8 ft. tables available for of Fire State Park, Cathedral Gorge State Advance reservation required as space tions (csjo.org). Information, Rabbi Judith school for children and middle-schoolers. good cheer follow. All are invited to attend. rent at $25, call Polly 447-5986. Proceeds Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands Na- is limited. Sessions held at Las Positas Seid, Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, 485-1049 or www.centerpointechurch.org 925-846-4436 A free will offering will help defray concert go to help service men and women who are tional Park, Zion National Park, Snow Canyon College, Veterans First Center, Building 1000, EastBaySecularJews.org. St. Innocent Orthodox Church, 1040 expenses. For information, call 474-2776 or overseas, along with veterans at home who State Park, and Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Livermore. Student status is not required. For First Church of Christ, Scientist, Florence Rd., Livermore. Sunday service at email mjsullivan@catholicsofpleasanton. are always in need of help. Snack bar run by Park.Adults are invited to this free program more information or to schedule a session, Livermore, services 10 a.m. every Sunday. 10 a.m. For details please see our website org. veterans attending classes at Las Positas on the second Thursday of each month in please call 925-352-8917. Sunday School for students (ages 3-20) is at www.stinnocent.net or call Fr. Leo Ar- Asbury Christmas Concert – Asbury College. the Community Meeting Rooms of the Civic Soroptimist Pleasanton Dublin is held at 10 a.m. every Sunday. The church rowsmith at 456-0845. United Methodist Church will hold its 16th Holidays on the Farm, Saturdays, De- Center Library, 1188 S. Livermore Avenue, accepting applications for Soroptimist and reading room are located at Third and St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Annual Christmas Concert at 7 pm. on cember 1 & 8 at Forest Home Farms Historic Livermore. For additional information please Awards. Applications are due by Dec. 2, N Streets. The Reading Room, which is Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, Services on Sunday Dec. 9, 2012 in the Sanctuary at Park, 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd. in San call 925 373-5500. 2012. Violet Richardson Award: Available to open to the public, features books, CDs and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Children’s 4743 East Ave. in Livermore. All of Asbury’s Ramon from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on both M.I. Hummel Club, San Francisco Bay young woman between the ages of 14 & 17 magazines for sale. For information, call Sunday School & Chapel at 10:15 a.m. All vocal choirs, the Asbury Band, several Saturdays. Free admission. Two of Santa’s Chapter, meets second Saturday of each who volunteer in the community or School. (925) 447-2946. are most welcome to come and worship instrumentalists and the Asbury Ringers will reindeer will make a special visit! Enjoy en- month at 1 p.m. at a member's home. Guests Women’s Opportunity Award: Since 1972, Sunset Community Church, 2200 Arroyo with us and to enjoy our hospitality. For be performing. Asbury’s pipe organ will also tertainment, tractor rides, Victorian ornament always welcome. Topics include sharing Soroptimist has been helping women reclaim Rd., Livermore. Sunday worship service at more information call the church office be part of the evening’s musical offerings. making, sheep herding demos, tours of the of Hummel figurine news and information. their dreams through the Women’s Opportu- 10:30 a.m. Nursery and children's church 925-462-4802. The concert is open to the public. A free will farm & Glass House Museum, and special For information, contact Joan Mumma, club nity Awards program. This program provides provided. A "Night of Worship" first Sunday St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, offering can be made at the door. There will vendors. For info call (925) 973-3284. secretary, 447-5164 or www.mumma.org/ cash grants to women who are working to of each month at 6 p.m. Wednesday night 678 Enos Way, Livermore, Sunday services be a punch and homemade cookie reception Community Holiday Posada Celebra- hummel/ better their lives through additional skills program for all ages at 7 p.m. Information, with Rev. Joyce Parry Moore - Rector. 8:00 immediately following in the Fellowship Hall. tion, Pleasanton/Tulancingo Sister City Lime Ridge hike, Sun., Dec. 2, 9 a.m. training and education. For more information call 447-6282. am Contemplative Eucharist with Taize For more information call Jean Braun at Association hosting the event Sun., Dec. 16. to noon. A reservoir of rare plants and or to complete an application visit: www.si- Holy Cross Lutheran Church Sunday music, 9:15 am Godly Play and Adult 449-4168, the church office at 447-1950 or The Posada is celebrated in Mexico through animals, a laboratory for restoration and pleasantondublin.org. Please mail applica- Service 9:30 a.m. 1020 Mocho St., Liver- Bible Study, 10:30 am Sung Eucharist with e-mail: [email protected] music, carols, and everyone’s participa- the setting for a triumphant chapter in local tions to: Soroptimist International Pleasanton more. Information, 447-8840. choir; child-care available. Youth Group Concert featuring Justin McRoberts, tion. Posada program 7 to 8 p.m. followed conservation history. 4 mile hike with 700 Dublin; P.O. Box 51, Pleasanton, CA 94566 Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, 1385 every Sunday from 4:00pm to 5:30 pm December 1 at 6 p.m. singer, songwriter by dessert and refreshments. Veterans ft. elevation gain tracinge the route outlined NAMI (National Alliance on Mental S. Livermore Avenue, Livermore. 8:30 a.m. in the Parish Hall and youth room; yough Justin McRoberts performs a free concert Memorial Building, 301 Main St., Pleasanton. in the new Audible Guide for Lime Ridge. Illness), Tri-Valley Parent Resource and worship (semiformal); 9:45 a.m. adult Bible oriented programs "Rite 13" and "Journey to at the Fountain Christian Fellowship in Free admission. All are invited. This is a fun R.S.V.P. required (925) 947-3535. Save Support Group is a twice-a-month parent study/Sunday school; 11 a.m. worship (infor- Adulthood."www.saintbartslivermore.com/ Pleasanton. The event starts at 6 p.m., seat- family event with participation from local Mount Diablo. support group for parents with children to mal). For information, call 925-447-1246. for more information. ing is limited, please arrive early. Fountain school students and the Pleasanton com- Ohlone Audubon will meet on December age 18 diagnosed with or suspected of hav- Asbury United Methodist Church, 4743 St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church Christian Fellowship, 4439 Stoneridge Drive, munity. For more information, contact Sylvia 4, 2012 at 7:30 pm at the Pleasanton Middle ing bipolar or other mood disorders. It meets East Avenue, Livermore. 9 a.m. Sunday (1928 Book of Common Prayer), 193 Con- Pleasanton, (925) 600-8182. or Jorge Victoria at [email protected] School, 5001 Case Ave. 94566. Verne Nelson First and third Tuesdays of each month worship. Information 447-1950. tractors Avenue, Livermore. Sunday services: Philosphers’ Café/Culture Chat, an or 462-6723. will present a program on "East Bay Birds." from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m at Pathways To Calvary Chapel Livermore, Sunday Ser- 8:45 a.m. (Low Mass) and 10 a.m. (High informal gathering to discuss ideas, will hold 2013 Valley Humane Society Calendar His photos show the beauty and grace of Wellness, 5674 Stoneridge Dr., Suite #114, vices 10:30 a.m. 545 N. L Street Livermore. Mass with Sunday School). Other Holy Days its December meeting Sunday, December is available for a $15 donation which helps birds as they go about daily business of Pleasanton. The group is drop-in, no reg- (925) 447-4357 - www.calvarylivermore.org. as announced. For information, call msg. 2 at 10:45 a.m. at Café Rumi, 4799 Heyer animals all year long by funding much- living. Following the program will be the istration required and is free. Suzi Glorioso St. Matthew's Baptist Church, 1239 center at 925/906-9561. Ave., Castro Valley. The topic is “Who bears needed rescue and rehabilitation programs. annual members "slide show" and the by phone: (925) 443-1797 or by e-mail: North Livermore Ave., Livermore. Services on Tri-Valley Church of Christ at 4481 East the responsibility of moral education in our 3670 Nevada St., Pleasanton. www. holiday cookie exchange. Not a requirement [email protected] Sunday at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Adult Sunday Avenue, Livermore, worship service 10:30 society?” Philosophers’ Café/Culture Chat valleyhumane.org. for attending. No admission charge and Operation: S.A.M. "Supporting All school 9:30 a.m., Children's Sunday school to 11:45 a.m. Sundays, all are welcome. is an activity of the Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, Book sale, Friends of the Livermore refreshment served. For more information Military" is a 501(c)3 non profit military at 9:30 a.m. Prayer each Wednesday at 7 925-447-4333 ( a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) open to the entire community. (Non-mem- Library, Sunday, December 2nd from noon call 925-447-8843 or go to web site www. support organization based in Livermore. p.m. followed by Bible study at 7:30 p.m. Unity of Tri-Valley Church, 9875 Dublin bers are asked to donate $5 per session.) to 4 p.m., rain or shine, regular monthly ohloneaudubon.org. S.A.M. has been in operation since January 449-3824. Canyon Rd., Castro Valley. More room for (925) 240-5612. book sale. There will be craft books, fiction Valley Spokesmen Bicycle Touring 2004. It is dedicated to the continued United Christian Church, celebrating all the new classes, small groups, new Tri-Valley Cultural Jews annual Chanu- and classics, children's books, and more. Club, Sat., Dec. 1, 60 miles Calaveras-Palo- support of deployed troops. Preparation 50 years in the Tri-Valley. 1886 College Ave. children's and teen programs, and Sunday kah celebration on December 16, 10:30am Outdoor plaza of former library, corner of mares loop, meet 9 a.m. at Shannon Center of comfort packages takes place every at M St., Livermore; worships on Sunday services (at 10 a.m.). All are welcome. Rev. to 12:30pm at the Bothwell Arts Center in Pacific Ave. & S. Livermore Ave., Livermore. in Dublin, Brahim Satoutah, 462-7390. Sun., other week - all year long. Providing morale morning at 10:30 a.m. Children’s program Harriet Hawkins, minister. (925) 829-2733. Livermore. Latkas, dreidals, Menorah light- For more information, call 925-443-0766. Dec. 2, 40 miles 2 options with start at Las support for those deployed. All information on Sunday morning and first Fridays. The www.trivalleyunity.com Check out Unity of Tri ing, fun for the whole family. Bring a potato Mention "The Independent" and save $2 Positas College, meet 9:30 a.m., Doug and provided is confidential and is not shared community is welcome. United CC is an Valley on Facebook. to contribute to the latkas. A family in need when you spend $4 or more. Janet Ondricek, 980-2490. Wed., Dec. 5, 34 for security purposes. To submit a name Open and Affirming ministry. Call 449-6820 Little Brown Church, United Church of help through JFCS/East Bay has been ad- Tri-Valley Republican Women Federat- miles San Ramon to Walnut Creek, meet 10 and address, inquire about donations or for more information. of Christ 141 Kilkare Road, Sunol. 10:30 opted. The family is in need of all household ed, all are invited to the Tri-Valley Republican a.m. at Central Park, Peter Rathmann, 336- helping, please visit www.operationsam.org, Granada Baptist Church, 945 Concan- a.m. worship. All are welcome here. www. furnishings including food. Gift cards to any Women Federated Christmas Party. Evening 0973. Club meeting Wed., Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m. email [email protected] or call non Boulevard, Livermore. Services: Sunday littlebrownchurchofsunol.org 925-862-2580 local stores would be greatly appreciated. of holiday music, good food, and good com- pizza dinner, meeting 7 p.m. Round Table 925 443-7620 for more information and the school – 9:45 a.m.; worship service – 11 Pathway Community Church, 6533 Bothwell Arts Center is located at 2466 8th pany, all at Cattlemen's Restaurant, 2882 Pizza, Dublin, election of officers, holiday calendar of events. a.m. All are welcome. 1-888-805-7151. Sierra Lane, Dublin. Contemporary Worship Street, Livermore 94550. Free to members, Kitty Hawk Road, Livermore. Wednesday, wear awarded, www.valleyspokesmen.org. Community Resources for Independent Seventh-day Adventist Church, 243 Service, Sunday 10:30 am. Children, youth, $15 donation for non-members, which can December 12, 6 p.m. Dinner choices are Anyone planning to go on a ride is asked to Living (CRIL) offers services to help people Scott Street, Livermore. 925-447-5462, adult programs. Biblically based practical be applied to a membership.Information call Shrimp Scampi, Lemon Herb Chicken, Sirloin call the leader for details on where to meet with disabilities and supports them to services on Saturday: Sabbath school 9:30 messages, nondenominational. All are 485-1049, email [email protected], or Steak, Broiled Salmon, Ravioli, or Caesar and what to bring. live independently and participate in their a.m., worship 11 a.m. www.livermoresda. welcomed. www.pathwaycommuntiychurch. visit our website at tri-valleyculturaljews.org. Salad topped with either Salmon, Chicken, Widowed Men and Women of Northern community for as long as they are willing 12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2012

Lab Physicist a Senior Member of IEEE Eagle Scout Rank Earned Mark Rowland, a physi- Mac Morgan (pictured at cist in Global Security' at right), a senior at Livermore Lawrence Livermore Na- High School and the son of tional Laboratory, has been Barbara and Mark Morgan named a senior member of has earned the rank of Eagle the Institute of Electrical Scout. and Electronics Engineers He is a member of Troop (IEEE). Fewer than 8 per- 903, sponsored by St. Mi- cent of IEEE members attain chael’s Catholic Church, in this level. Livermore. Rowland, who joined Mac built wooden cov- the Laboratory in 1984, has ers for the Long Jump pits worked in the field of radia- at the football stadium at tion detection for much of Livermore High School his 28-year career. for his Eagle community service project. He has led Livermore Mark Rowland (Photo by Jacqueline McBride/LLNL) teams that developed a pair In addition to scouting, of identification instruments aerial measurement systems ment of a number of other Mac is a varsity athlete in -- the Detective, to detect for about two months. instruments, including a both wrestling and lacrosse. and measure gamma rays, The Detective's mechan- gamma-ray camera, a large and the Fission Meter, to de- ically-cooled design was neutron scintillator mul- tect and measure neutrons. highly practical in com- tiplicity array, a handheld Real Estate Leadership Award Given These technologies, both parison with liquid nitrogen- low-resolution sodium io- licensed to Tennessee-based cooled systems because of dide nuclear material iden- Ed Krafchow, chair- with the REALTORS® Con- ployees of Mason-McDuffie ORTEC, assist in meeting the disaster conditions that tification system and an man of the board for Better ference & Expo. Real Estate." the challenges of inspecting prevailed in Japan at that X-ray fluorescent analyzer. Homes and Gardens Mason- The RISMedia Real Krafchow has been close- cargo. time and because of supply In addition, he led a team McDuffie Real Estate, was Estate Leadership Award ly involved in the develop- In March, 2011, within and transportation problems. that designed and built two named the 2012 recipient honors a member of the ment of the company’s pro- several days of when the tsu- As the number of Detec- robots that were delivered to of RISMedia’s Real Estate real estate community who prietary WebTop Intranet, a nami-crippled Fukushima tive instruments has reached the Chernobyl nuclear plant Leadership Award, spon- embraces innovation and technology platform that has nuclear plant started leaking beyond the hundreds, the for fuel characterization. sored by Citibank. Kraf- demonstrates resilience in generated leads and created radiation, four Detective instrument has become rec- The holder of 12 patents, chow accepted the award order to facilitate success for efficient business process- instruments were shipped to ognized as the gold standard Rowland has served as an at RISMedia’s 17th Annual real estate professionals and es for his sales associates. Japan. The instruments were in real-time performance. adviser and policy expert Power Broker Dinner on consumers alike. Mindful of the changing moved around the island na- Rowland also has led to the International Atomic November 9 in Orlando, “The individuals who needs of consumers, Kraf- tion and used to calibrate the or worked on the develop- Energy Agency since 1990. Fla., held in conjunction were nominated for this chow led his company to award were chosen for their a full integration of online commitment to consistently transaction management Pleasanton Launches New Shop and Dine Website blazing new paths in real and esignatures in 2010. estate,” said John Feather- Krafchow is a frequent na- The City of Pleasanton hensive online resource for cienda Business Park, and ping category or shopping ston, publisher and CEO of tional speaker on several has launched a new shop shopping, dining and recre- the Pleasanton Downtown center. Users can subscribe RISMedia. “Ed Krafchow industry-related topics, and local website, www.inPleas- ation in Pleasanton, www. Association, under one "um- to receive newsletters via has long exemplified in- has been identified by the anton.com which encour- inPleasanton.com has been brella" resource site. www. email for special announce- novation and leadership in California Association of ages consumers to shop and in the planning and design inPleasanton.com will pro- ments, campaigns and news. real estate and is an inspira- REALTORS® as one of dine in Pleasanton as well as stages for the last year. The vide local retail and dining A Facebook page has been tion for his peers, brokers California's top brokers and discover recreation spots to concept came about from establishments an opportu- created to market the site and sales associates. We recognized as a technologi- promote Pleasanton as a des- a brainstorming and pro- nity to market themselves as well as a Twitter account are thrilled to present Ed cal leader by the Employee tination for an extraordinary gram prioritization session and increase awareness of where businesses may tweet with this year’s Real Estate Relocation Council. He has experience. of the committee as a way what Pleasanton has to offer store specials and other Leadership Award.” consulted on a national as An effort by the City's to bring other shop-local to potential visitors as well announcements. www.in- Krafchow stated, “I well as local level with many Economic Vitality Commit- campaigns already in place, as residents. Pleasanton.com is the place am humbled, and accept Multiple Listing Services tee to support our businesses such as those sponsored by Visitors to the site can to go to find out where to this honor on behalf of the (MLS) as well as strategic and provide one compre- the Pleasanton Weekly, Ha- look up retail shops by shop- shop and dine in Pleasanton! agents, managers, and em- real estate planning groups.