Wednesday, October 26, 2011 • Vol. 5 Issue 17

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A kaleidoscope of kindergarten butterflies alight on the playground at Rheem Elementary School Photo Doug Kohen

By Cathy Dausman ention a school parade in October, and thoughts naturally the playground in decorated cardboard butterfly wings before berta Svendsen, Kathi Beadleson and Maryeda Theer in atten- Mturn to Halloween. This parade, although also predomi- watching the Painted Lady butterflies they had raised fly away. dance, and a second generation kindergarten student participat- nately colored orange and black, was not. It was the annual Don- Painted Ladies, also known as thistle butterflies, or cosmopolitan, ing. Stephanie Kusinski’s daughter Hania made her own wings ald Rheem Elementary Butterfly Parade and release. Three look like a slightly smaller version of the Monarch butterfly. this year; after the parade the pair met with Theer, who was classes of kindergarteners, with their fifth grade “buddies,” for Principal Elaine Frank said this year’s Butterfly Parade was Stephanie’s kindergarten teacher. an audience and a host of parents, families and friends marched the school’s 37th, with retired Rheem kindergarten teachers Al- ... continued on page A10

Advertising Quote of the Week: "I am writing this as Kurt Piper Coming Soon. 502 Silverado Drive Remodeled 3 bedroom 2 bath part of the A Lamorinda Leader Communications Burton Valley ranch style home with “Pottery Barn” charm, hardwood merit badge." floors, new bathrooms, new windows, Orinda Boy Scouts ASSOCIATES new roof and much, much more! REAL ESTATE speak out - read 1850 sq. ft. floor plan on .75 acre lot. A must see. Tell A Friend! Letters to the Editor, (925) 818-8000 Lafayette page A8 DRE#01130308 www.kurtpiper.com Offered at $829,000 Lafayette Draft Downtown Plan Ready Town News A2 - A7 Letters to the Editor A8-A9 for Final Hearings Life in Lamorinda B1-B12 By Cathy Tyson Service Directory B6 t’s a massive document almost five years in the DSP and certification of the EIR (Environ- based strategy and place heavy emphasis on Community Service B6 Ithe making. Forget the latest thriller, civic- mental Impact Report),” said Special Projects maintaining Lafayette’s downtown character, Not to be Missed B8 minded Lafayette residents have an early Manager Ann Merideth. the revised DSP is more consistent with the Food B11 Christmas gift, of sorts, with the newly re- At just over a hundred pages with photos, General Plan’s goals and polices for the down- Business B12 leased Revised Draft Downtown Specific Plan charts and graphs, this is one-stop shopping for town,” said Merideth. “The WRT plan called Sports C1-C3 (r DSP), available on-line from the city web- municipal planning and design goals. If even- for higher height limits by right and higher res- HOW TO CONTACT US C2 site, www.lovelafayette.org. The r DSP is tually adopted by the City Council it will serve idential densities in some parts of the down- Classified C3 meant to compliment Lafayette’s existing Gen- as an integral guideline for steering develop- town. The revised DSP maintains the height Shop Moraga C4 eral Plan with more detailed land use and a de- ment for the next twenty years. A vision for limits and densities that are in the General Our Homes D1-D12 sign framework for future growth to preserve growth is specified, and priorities to accom- Plan, and, like the General Plan, only allows This Week Read About: and enhance this small city. plish that vision are spelled out. greater height when certain findings can be Election Day A2 Although the document is complete, it has It’s fair to say when the process started the made.” Separating Dogs and Kids A4 not yet been adopted by the City Council. The Specific Plan was not embraced by the public. The height component of the r DSP has Financial Pains A6 Planning Commission will be holding hearings The final version looks different from the orig- been the most controversial element of the Choirs Shine B2 on the r DSP and form recommendations for inal draft plan by consultant team Wallace Plan from the start. Residents were clearly Life Meets Afterlife B4 the City Council at meetings slated for No- Roberts and Todd. The City used the firm, but concerned about changing the character of the Artists on Life and Work B5 vember 7, November 21 and December 5. after significant blow back from the public, de- City and even speculated that taller buildings Nightmare at Rheem Theatre B9 “We hope to take the recommendations to the cided to customize a Plan from the ground up. would lead to the ‘Walnut Creek-ization’ of City Council by late January for adoption of “While both plans are based on a district- Lafayette. ... continued on page A3 V-ball Heats Up C2

Life in Lamorinda B1-B12 Sports C1-C3 Our Homes D1-D12 Not Shaken During Quake Campolindo Dominates in the Happy Haunting Drill Battle of the Unbeatens By Lee Borrowman By Cathy Dausman By Alex Kozela The signs are unmistakable—they Over 1200 Miramonte High School Campolindo turned the battle of appear on front yards and drive- students, faculty and staff took an local unbeatens into one of the ways, in doorways and windows. hour last Thursday morning to duck, most lopsided results of the sea- Everything from scarecrows to cover and evacuate their classrooms son, blowing out Miramonte with skeletons, pumpkin patches to as participants in this year’s Great a 42-6 home victory. After finish- graveyards, and all manner of California ...... read on page B1 ing the last ...... read on page C1 creepy crawlies ...read on page D1 Page: A2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 BURTON VALLEY REMODEL WITH URBAN FLAIR! 501 Bavarian Ct., Lafayette Just Listed! • Turn-key 4BD/2BA, 1968 sq. ft. single-story on pristine court Dana Green Sarah Kellar • Open and spacious including a chef’s Lic. #01482454 Lic. #01805955 kitchen with wine cellar, sun-drenched great room and formal living/dining (925) 339-1918 spaces www.DanaGreenTeam.com • Beautiful .31-acre property with deck, level lawn and fresh landscape www.501BavarianCourt.com Offered at $1,040,000

Rez Run Fun for the Whole Family By Cathy Tyson pancakes, participants can attempt to break their own records. McQuain grew up in Orinda and moved to the Happy Valley neighborhood of Lafayette years Civic News ago. The little one in the stroller is now old Public Meetings enough to drive – Morgan is now 16, Bailey is 15 City Council and the twins Regan and Kyle are 12. Look for all of the McQuains, including Uncle Greg, at this Monday, November 14, 7:00 pm year’s Rez Run on Sunday, October 30. Lafayette Library & Learning Center, Staggered start times ensure the event runs Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd smoothly through downtown and around the Planning Commission Reservoir: the 2 mile run/walk starts at 8:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 7, 7:00 pm the 5K starts at 8:30 and the 10K starts at 8:45. For Lafayette Library & Learning Center, registration information, call the Lafayette Cham- Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd ber of Commerce at (925) 284-7404 or go to their website at www.lafayettechamber.org or www.ac- Design Review tive.com. The event supports local education, and Monday, November 14, 7:00 pm parking is available at BART. Last minute partic- Lafayette Library & Learning Center ipants can register on the day of the event from in the Arts & Science Discovery The McQuain family at the Reservoir Run in 2003 (from left): Karla McQuain, Barry McQuain, Kyle (at age 4), 6:30 on. As usual, there will be a pancake break- Center at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Grampa Chuck Froese of Orinda (70 at the time photo was taken), Bailey (7), Grandma Marty Froese (70), fast provided by the Lafayette Rotary Club. Morgan (8), Uncle Greg Froese of Orinda (42), and Regan (4). Photo provided by the McQuain family Since the whole family has been participating School Board Meetings arla McQuain and family have been regu- have joined the group and the kids have magically for more than a dozen years, and considering the Acalanes Union High School Klarly donning their sneakers for the Reser- grown up. The McQuains make the Rez Run a volume of commemorative t-shirts – every year District voir Run since 1996. “I did the 2K pushing my priority even though the kids’ have travelling soc- they get six, one for each family member - mom Wednesday, November 2, 7:30 pm daughter in a stroller that year,” said McQuain, cer; they just have to miss that day. Enjoying the Karla is considering making a quilt. Board Room AUHSD Office who describes herself as not a serious runner, al- pancake breakfast and seeing many of their The annual event is presented by the Lafayette 1212 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lafayette though she gives credit to husband Barry as being friends and neighbors makes it a unique annual Chamber of Commerce and the City of Lafayette www.acalanes.k12.ca.us more of a fitness buff. event. Now that official finishing times are avail- with substantial support from Oakwood Athletic In the ensuing years, her brother and parents able on-line for each runner/jogger, even post- Club and many local businesses. Lafayette School District Wednesday, October 12, 7:00 pm Wednesday, November 16, 7:00 pm Election Day on November 8 LAFSD Office It’s fairly simple, with either a yes 3477 School Street, Lafayette or no, registered voters can www.lafsd.k12.ca.us decide the fate of Measure G. It’s Check online for agendas, meeting the only item on the ballot for notes and announcements Lafayette residents on Tuesday City of Lafayette: November 8. Measure G is a www.ci.lafayette.ca.us citizen-initiated measure that Chamber of Commerce: would levy an $89 parcel tax for a www.lafayettechamber.org maximum period of ten years to bring all of Lafayette’s roads and drains to good quality. Threshold for passage is 66% of voters plus 1. If approved, the City Council has agreed to contribute $3 million from reserve accounts to completely address the asphalt Police Report problem. A rollover of a different kind, Vote at: Happy Valley 10/2/2011 Lafayette is not a Elementary, Lafayette/Orinda gated community, especially if Presbyterian Church, Lafayette one driver has his way. When an Christian Church, Springhill unstoppable force (a car) met a Elementary or Our Savior’s moveable object (a rolling gate), the result was property damage. Lutheran Church. C. Tyson Driver and passenger were unin- jured—can’t say the same for the gate. MARA CONSTRUCTION Fencing from the garage, CAN THIS THING GO 10/3/2011 What’s behind door #1? If it was the garage door bro- LOCATED IN LAMORINDA AREA ken into in Lafayette recently, it 20th YEAR IN BUSINESS FASTER? was valued at over $2,000 in live your life to the items stolen and another $1700 in fullest at every stage repair bills for the door.

Vehicle vs. pedestrian, 10/5/2011 An unfortunate jaywalker tried to make it across Moraga Rd at Moraga Blvd., and was hit.

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Experience Counts!

Known for their fantastic produce, it must be close to Halloween when giant furry spiders, ghosts and scarecrows invade the pumpkin patch just outside the front door of independent, family-owned Diablo Foods. C. Tyson

Draft Downtown Plan Ready for Final Hearings ... continued from page A1 According to Niroop Srivatsa, Plan- high school; now he’s in his junior ning and Building Services Manager, year at Willamette University in height limits are spelled out within Salem, Oregon – although currently the district sections. he’s in the midst of a semester abroad The process has taken significantly in Ecuador. His mother Cheryl Noll, longer than anticipated. “On Decem- also on the Advisory Committee, ber 6, we will mark five years of comments that it’s not that surprising working on the r DSP. I don’t think that it has taken so long considering anyone originally thought it would current civic budget issues: “It’s take that long, but it is an important amazing that anything is moving issue for the community and impor- forward. That’s one of the reasons tant issues take time,” said Merideth. that this has been such a great ex- You can say that again— there perience for Brayton. He has been have been more than thirty-eight personally involved in a govern- Planning Commission meetings and mental process, which sometimes twenty-two meetings of the Advisory takes years to get anything done! Committee, made up of a cross sec- He has learned that you have to be tion of citizen volunteers and City very patient when you have so Council and Planning Commission many parties and interest groups A Member Of Real Living representatives to offer input. who may all agree on a common One of the members of the Advi- goal, but all have slightly different sory Committee, Brayton Noll, ideas as to the best way to reach started when he was a sophomore in that goal.” Will the Specific Plan Impact the Terraces Project? UV^ Fashion Design & Whether or not the Revised Draft Downtown Specific Plan is adopted in time to influence the proposed Terraces of Lafayette project is unknown. At a recent Planning Commission meeting a room full of concerned resi- MHZOPVUZ[\KPV Sewing Classes dents turned out to passionately protest the proposed large apartment Classes Start This Week complex across from Acalanes High School. Kids, Teens, Adults Because the application is officially complete, the project is required to go through Lafayette’s planning review process which includes an environ- Have fun and express your creativity mental impact report that would clarify potential impacts to air quality, by learning to design and make your noise, traffic, green house gas emissions and more. The developer, O’Brien own fashions! Land Company, LLC will pay for the study to be completed by a consulting - Fashion Clothing team. Despite opponents’ negative comments, the meeting was designed - Modern Heirloom Quilts - Monogrammed Holiday Gifts to determine the scope of the environmental impact report. The report is slated to be complete in January, at that time the public will, once again, - 4 week or 7 week sessions have an opportunity to comment. - 2 hour workshops Current zoning for the parcel is APO, Administrative, Professional, Office use that allows up to 35 units per acre, more than enough to accommodate Also: Thanksgiving & Winter the potential 315-unit multi-family apartment complex on the twenty-two Break Camps for Kids & Teens acre site. The City was in the process of downzoning the parcel at the cor- ner of Deer Hill Road and Pleasant Hill Road when the building application For details visit: www.sewnow.com was submitted, although a change has not yet been finalized. The matter has been put on hold while the city attorney reviews the situation. C. Tyson sewnow! 960 Moraga Rd., Lafayette [1 block S of Mt. Diablo] (925) 283-7396 [email protected]

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Plaza Center 6211 Medau Pl., Oakland Napa Town Center Lafayette (925) 283-3380 (707) 255-9375 Plaza Center Montclair 6211 (510)Medau 339-2210 Pl., Oakland Napa Napa Town Center Lafayette (925) 283-3380 Montclair (510) 339-2210 Napa (707) 255-9375 Page: A4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 Peralta Construction CUSTOM HOMES | ADDITIONS | REMODELING The X5 is in! owned and operated by Moraga resident Pat Geoghegan Call Michael at 925-998-2150 Civic News Public Meetings Town Council Wednesday, October 26, 7:00 pm Wednesday, November 9, 7:00 pm Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School, 1010 Camino Pablo Lic #624045

Planning Commission BUILDING THE BAY AREA FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS Michael Heller Monday, November 7, 7:30 pm BMW Concord [email protected] Moraga Library, 1500 Saint Marys Rd 925.273.7692 www.peraltaconstruction.com BMW Concord | 1967 Market ST. | Concord Design Review Monday, November 14, 7:00 pm Moraga Library, 1500 Saint Marys Rd Rancho Laguna Park Layout Nearly Decided School Board Meeting Town Council will take up the issue involving kids, dogs and spatial separation tonight Moraga School District By Cathy Tyson Tuesday, November 8, 7:30 pm Joaquin Moraga Intermediate approximately $7,000 on a study, for the park to address the majority of School Auditorium consultants and facilitators of the needs of town residents, which in- 1010 Camino Pablo, Moraga workshop – Mark Slicheter and Matt cludes dog owners and non-dog own- www.moraga.k12.ca.us Gruber of Callendar Associates – ers. Is there room for improvement in See also AUHSD meeting page A2 were retained to do just that. The the soggy two acre grass field and lay- landscape architects gathered input out of play areas along with a possible Check online for agendas, meeting from residents who weren’t shy about fence to separate dogs from people? notes and announcements Town of Moraga: sharing their opinions in response to For some of the residents in atten- www.moraga.ca.us two questions: What do you like or dance Rancho Laguna Park, located Chamber of Commerce: value about the park, and, what could at the south end of town, has been www.moragachamber.org be improved? Attendees were divided working reasonably well for the last Moraga Citizens’ Network: into two groups to answer both ques- thirty years, and if it’s not broken, www.moragacitizensnetwork.org tions. At times the wish list discus- don’t fix it. Others, clearly the minor- sion came perilously close to veering ity in attendance, were concerned off track, but well-behaved, neigh- about off-leash dogs. Tina Chambers, borly residents with a variety of opin- mom of two, dog owner and active ions were quite civil. Boy Scout leader was, “very much an Surprisingly, a large portion of at- advocate of spatial separation,” call- tendees found common ground, ing the current situation, “unsafe for Matt Gruber takes note of suggestions at a recent Rancho Laguna Park meeting. agreeing that it would be best to have my dog and my kids.” Police Report Photo C. Tyson the tot lot and the youth playground Bob Reynolds, a long time resi- No no driving, 10/07/11 All it took pproximately forty people a two phased approach for spatial sep- both located near the restrooms. One dent, pointed out that the Town has was a failure to use a turn signal on crowded into the Mosaic room aration at Rancho Laguna Park, Moraga Road near School Street. A resident called the Park “a Norman limited resources and the semi-paved of the Hacienda de las Flores for a “Phase one: complete the south side The 43-year-old driver told the offi- Rockwell painting,” very family ori- path on Mulholland Ridge, off of workshop to discuss and plan the fu- playground renovation, including cer that his driver’s license was sus- ented. Four large pages were filled Donald Drive, is available all day, pended for three or four DUI’s. ture layout of Rancho Laguna Park re- fencing, as well as fence the north and with resident suggestions of what they every day for off-leash dogs. Turns out he was telling the truth, so cently. In a process that has dragged east sides along the existing pathway like about the park, noting everything Garnering applause for her com- he was arrested for suspended license on for years, the Parks and Recreation extending as far as possible toward from its rustic nature to the level ments, Jan Gruen suggested, “I think for prior DUI and violation of proba- Commission was looking to formulate the amphitheater to accommodate off- walking area and of course, as a great everybody can learn to share the tion. The car was towed away. a recommendation to the Town Coun- leash dog activity during all open place to socialize with your dog. The Park.” It will be up to the Town cil which will meet on October 26 to hours for the park.” He added that current rules state that there can be no Council to decide the matter and allo- Party busted, 10/07/11 Approxi- give a final decision on the matter. Phase two will improve drainage on off-leash dogs in the park from 9:00 cate funding at the October 26 meet- mately 150 party-goers were cele- Jay Ingram, Parks and Recreation the existing turf area. a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9 ing at 7:00 p.m. in the Joaquin brating something on Corte Gabriel Director, reports that the Commission Although some residents encour- a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekends. Moraga Intermediate School Audito- at 11:30 p.m. The female home- will recommend to the Town Council aged the Commission to not spend At issue is finding an optimal way rium. owner was issued a warning notice

that she had to sign and was coun- seled about the repercussions of hav- Financing 331 Rheem ing another party. Guests were cooperative and decided it was a After deciding not sell open space immediately, the Town looks for other ways to pay off its loan good time to call it a night. By Sophie Braccini Parking and pot mid-street, 10/09/11 he Moraga Town Council re- In her staff report, Planning Di- asked by the Council to come back to meet the March payment deadline, It wasn’t even 9:00 p.m. when cops Tcently decided to postpone the rector Shawna Brekke-Read listed with more detailed options. “Interest and the cost of the process, estimated checked on a silver BMW 328i sale of a portion of the Town-owned three options the Council could con- rates have never been so low,” com- at over $100,000, was too high. parked in the middle of Corliss Drive property located at the corner of sider to pay off the note. “These in- mented Council Member Dave Trot- However, the Council reserved the near Lynwood with the engine run- Rheem Boulevard and Saint Mary’s clude using one-time developer fees ter, “a fixed loan can get a rate as low right to sell the land at a later date. ning and flashers on. Hmmmm, the Road. That sale was part of a package (i.e., Palos Colorados funds that as 3% at this time.” “There are a number of options 16-year-old driver thought she was deal, designed by former Town Man- amount to $2 million at this time), A second property was also sup- we could consider and will be bring- parked at the curb. Contraband bo- nanza in the car – over ten grams of ager Mike Segrest and approved by continuing the $450,000 note with in- posed to be sold to finance the pur- ing back to the Council before marijuana, one bottle that was mostly the Council, to redeem the purchase of terest (the note’s owner has indicated chase of 331 Rheem – a vacant lot on March,” confirmed Keimach as she full of Vodka and one closed bottle of 331 Rheem – the property that became interest in doing so), or developing a Devin Drive that the Town took off began to work on a comprehensive fi- wine. Driver and her two girlfriends the town’s corporation yard. Staff payment plan using the operating the market when it failed to attract a nancial plan with town’s new Admin- were cited for multiple offenses – must now find other ways to finance budget,” read the report. buyer. istrative Services Director, Stephanie driving on a restricted teen driver’s a promissory note for $450,000 that is During its October 12 meeting, The Planning Commission, Parks Hom. “One time developer fees could license, possession of pot, open con- coming due on March 10, 2012. Town Manager Jill Keimach was and Recreation Commission, and be used if it creates park land; a tainer, and being under 21 in posses- many residents expressed concerns longer-term payment plan with the sion of alcohol in a car. Parents were about building along the popular and note holder could be negotiated using called to pick up the party girls, and Check out the Hacienda for your next scenic Lafayette-Moraga Trail. General Fund or operating dollars the car was re-parked correctly by the Birthday Party! Brekke-Read’s staff report detailed all over several years; the Town could surely cranky registered owner. of the hurdles that the Town, as the pay off the note with surplus dollars Themes include: property owner, would have to jump at the end of the year over the next Burglary 10/08/11 Personal elec- Cupcakes, Jewelry, Mad Science & more! in order to get a tentative map for de- several years; or the Town could ex- tronic items disappeared from the in- veloping the property. tend the note with interest. These and side of a Sandringham Drive South Call: 925-888-7036 for more information home. Value of items is approxi- The Council decided to table the potentially new options will be eval- mately $1100. No leads at this time. issue indefinitely on two cues – the uated and developed for Town Coun- The same home had been burgled in MORAGA PARKS & RECREATION land couldn’t be sold quickly enough cil consideration,” stated Keimach. July while the homeowner was away 925-888-7045 • www.moraga.ca.us for the weekend.

Domestic Dispute, 10/10/11 Three family members were fighting at a Woodford Drive home. Police were called when the yelling started. Cops talked to the argue-ees who said they will resolve the issue without causing a disturbance. No details on the na- ture of the brouhaha were given, it was a family matter. No evidence of a physical confrontation.

D.U.I., 10/07/11 Cops pulled over a BMW on Moraga Way after it was observed driving erratically and going 58 mph in a 35 mph zone. The 33-year-old driver had red, watery eyes, spoke with slow slurred speech and smelled like alcohol. Officers figured he was three for three and gave him a field sobriety test – which he flunked. Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A5

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She says her call to public big financial picture for the Town. effect change. “Sometimes projects ing concerns beforehand, through di- service began during her college years “One of the objectives of the fail, and it is important to understand alogue and transparency – and she is when she volunteered with Upward Council this year is to create a long why, assess the weak points and learn prepared to step out of her office to do Bound, a non-profit that supports term strategic financial plan and an from it.” Hom says she believes in that, should the need arise. inner-city youth on their way to col- investment policy,” she says, “I look lege – in talking with other volun- forward to meeting the community teers, she began to understand the key and establishing such plans.” For A Post Office’s Last Day role that good implementation plays Hom, strategies are not created be- in the success of sensible political de- hind closed doors or made to sit on By Sophie Braccini cisions. shelves. A big proponent of trans- October 14, the last day of its oper- “If the implementation, or admin- parency, she plans to make as much ations. Patrons came to check their istrative side, is not up to par when de- information available to the public as mail boxes, send registered mail Stephanie Hom near her office at the cisions are made, change does not possible, “In a form that’s under- and ask questions about the future. Hacienda de las Flores happen,” she says, “budgeting, plan- standable to all,” she adds with a On the inside door, a simple white Photo Sophie Braccini ning, and organizing are the key to smile. sheet of paper matter-of-factly omething about Moraga just success.” Another big task awaiting her is stated that the office would be trans- Skeeps pulling talent through the When Hom went to Columbia participating in the work of the Rev- ferred to the main Post Office lo- tunnel. The first to arrive was Town University for her master’s degree, enue Enhancement Community for cated on Center Street in the Rheem Manager Jill Keimach, from Berke- she chose Public Administration over Outreach to Neighborhoods Shopping Center. ley; then came Planning Director International Affairs because she (RECON). “I believe that one of the “We apologize for any inconven- Shawna Brekke-Read, from Oakland. wanted to have an impact close to reasons I was recruited to this job is ience it might cause to our cus- The newest arrival is Stephanie Hom, home. that I participated in similar projects tomers,” said Mark Fahmy, the postal also of Oakland, who recently began For 18 years Hom worked for the for the City of Oakland, such as a worker who ran the Country Club work as Moraga’s Administrative City of Oakland, mostly in finance bond measure to improve the struc- operation single-handedly. A cus- Services Director. and budget, with a three-year gap ture around Lake Merritt and the es- tomer inquired about the drive-up The three women didn’t know while working in the private sector. tuary,” says Hom. She knows that mail boxes in which locals and sen- each other before, but they have a few Her last position was as Director of RECON’s task, to find a way to fi- Postal worker Mark Fahmy by the iors across the street have been drop- things in common – they are all pro- Administrative Services for the Public nance the town’s infrastructure original 1967 dedication plaque ping mail since 1967. “They will be installed when the Country Club Post fessional, working mothers, and they Works Department that, according to maintenance, is a challenge. “All removed,” said Fahmy, “they are lo- chose public service because of a be- Office was established during the cated on a property that does not be- her, worked like clockwork. over the USA, people don’t fix the administration of President Lyndon long to the Postal Service.” He added lief that serving the greater good is a “Life is about learning, growing roads until they’re broken, even if it Johnson Photo Sophie Braccini worthy cause. Hom says she chose and new perspectives,” she says, “I costs ten times more to delay the that people could ask to have free- Moraga because she wanted to be part wanted to get a fresh viewpoint on maintenance,” she says. he Post Office located at the standing boxes installed on Country of a strong team of dedicated people. bureaucratic processes.” Hom chose The new Director knows from Tcorner of Country Club Drive Club Drive, close to the two retire- Hom was born in southern Cali- Moraga, where she will be challenged experience that one of the challenges and School Street was bustling with ment homes, as a convenience to the fornia to parents who emigrated from to work the small details of everyday of public service is that it takes a con- activity on the morning of Friday, seniors living there.

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925.360.9588 925.708.9515 “AsAs heard on HG Radio”Radio Build It GREEN Smart Solutions from the Ground Up DRE# r00445794, DRE# 01181995 WWW.THEHATTERSLEYS.COM Roads, Drains, and Financial Pains By Laurie Snyder hen Abraham Lincoln he presented two possible plans the sequencing of construction Examples of possible parcel Wwrote, “The legitimate for road and drainage system re- and repairs. and ad-valorem taxes were pro- object of government, is to do for pair to the Council. Road condi- A third option posed by the vided “for illustrative purposes Civic News a community of people, whatever tions would be restored, at a CIOC is also available to the only.” With a $100 per parcel per Public Meetings they need to have done, but can minimum, to good or very good Council, under which 80 percent year tax, staff estimated that ap- not do ... for themselves – in their condition and 1940s-era storm of available funds would be allo- proximately $700,000 per year City Council separate, and individual capaci- drains nearing the end of their cated to residential roads with the could be generated – an amount Tuesday, November 1, 7:00 pm ties,” he might very well have lives would be upgraded. Funding remaining 20 percent broken out that would securitize at three per- Auditorium, Orinda Library, been speaking to those who reside for either option would be gener- for the remaining classifications cent over a 20-year period to 26 Orinda Way in and govern Orinda. For it was ated through a series of ballot (arterials, collectors, and school roughly $10.4 million or $13.7 in that same commentary that measures conducted over a four routes). million over a 30-year period. Citizens' Infrastructure Lincoln listed public roads and to eight year period. Revenue Options With a general obligation Oversight Commission highways among the responsibil- Swanson explained that a Staff then presented its Summary bond of $150 per $1 million of as- Wednesday, November 9, at 5:00 pm ities of “the machinery of govern- “worst first” option would enable of City of Orinda Road Funding sessed value, staff explained that Community Room, City Hall ment.” staff to focus their attention pri- Options, illustrating the in depth an ad-valorem tax could generate 22 Orinda Way That machinery was operating marily on residential streets, pri- research and analysis that has similar amounts over the same in high gear on October 18 as the oritizing and working their way been undertaken by staff in con- timeframes. By implementing ei- Planning Commission Orinda City Council presented a up their infrastructure repair list. cert with various City Council ther tax, the City could demon- Tuesday, November 8, at 7:00 pm two-hour roads workshop before Funding from Return-to-Source and resident advisory groups. strate for residents its ability to Auditorium, Orinda Library, its regularly scheduled meeting. (Measure J), gas taxes, and This two-page chart outlines a efficiently complete infrastruc- 26 Orinda Way Informed by a series of five open garbage franchise fees of roughly wide range of revenue generating ture projects on time while retain- School Board Meeting public meetings conducted by the $800,000 to $1 million each year strategies, and explains the pros ing the flexibility to assess the Orinda Union School District City Council Roads Sub-Com- would be dedicated to arterials and cons of each. state of the economy before re- mittee (CRS) from May through and collectors. Discussions centered prima- questing public approval for fu- Monday, November 14, 6:00 pm October, and monthly meetings of Alternatively, by employing a rily on three of these possible ture ballot measures. OUSD Office the Finance Advisory and Citi- “road network allocation” ap- funding streams: the creation of Other options less likely to be 8 Altarinda Road, Orinda zens Infrastructure Oversight proach, residential streets, arteri- assessment districts, the use of a implemented included such www.orindaschools.org (CIOC) committees, the Coun- als, school routes, and collectors parcel tax, or the adoption of an things as a utility users’ tax, a real See also AUHSD meeting page A2 cil’s workshop was a study in would continue to be used as clas- ad-valorem tax. property transfer tax, and a city Check online for agendas, meeting civic duty. sifications for repair allocations. Assessment districts, if imple- sales and use tax. Council Mem- notes and announcements Participants explored factors Swanson advised council mem- mented, would be tailored to de- ber Sue Severson suggested City of Orinda: impacting the costs involved in bers that, under this strategy, they fined neighborhoods with adding another funding option – www.cityoforinda.org maintaining Orinda’s 92.8 miles would need to determine what assessments levied based on for residents to choose to do noth- Chamber of Commerce: of roads. Discussion surrounded percentage of funding would be property values within those ing, but also advised that resi- www.orindachamber.org the City’s prudent use of funds, designated for each classification neighborhoods. Assessments dents selecting this path should be The Orinda Association: ability to ensure safe routes to to ensure that each category would be approved based on a made aware of the consequences www.orindaassociation.org schools, and the geographic eq- would eventually be addressed. weighted majority of voting prop- of allowing the continued deteri- uity of repairs, and was supported Measure J funds, gas taxes, and erty owners. The Council wanted oration of Orinda’s infrastructure. by a staff report filled with charts garbage fees would then be de- legal advice before it could fully Next Steps conveying a dizzying degree of voted to annual pavement and consider this strategy, and also City Council and staff will con- detail. Everything’s available on maintenance projects. asked staff to obtain details from tinue to expand their outreach to the City’s web site, Under both plans, three $20 the League of California Cities the community. Residents are in- www.ci.orinda.ca.us. million bond measures or two about the administration of as- vited and encouraged to attend a Police Report Worst First vs. $30 million bond measures would sessment districts operated by second roads workshop on No- When thieves come knocking at Road Network Allocation be needed to facilitate completion other cities. vember 15, 2011. your door, 10-11-2011 After re- Chuck Swanson, Director of of the estimated $60 million it turning from school, a family Orinda’s Department of Public will take to completely fix member found her front door Works and Engineering Services, Orinda’s infrastructure. A citi- Share your thoughts, insights and damaged. There were scuff marks noted that members of the CIOC zens’ committee would serve in where the would-be burglar’s are “very concerned about the an oversight capacity, making an- opinions with your community. shoe met the door, and pry marks condition of residential roads” as nual recommendations regarding around the frame. The good news Send a letter to the editor: was that the door remained locked, so nothing was stolen [email protected] from the house. The not-so good news was that the thief caused Bay Area $350 in damage to the door. BAD In the bag, 10-12-2011 Orinda INC. Drainage, Inc. Police stopped a vehicle and found reason to search both car and driver. They discovered one Have You Checked Your packet of marijuana, containing less than an ounce, in his pocket. Crawlspace Lately? That gives a whole ‘nother mean- ing to “Glad Bags.” He was cited • French Drains and released. • French Drains • Underfloor Drains Weed like to card you, 10-13- • Underfloor Drains 2011 Police made a traffic stop • Downspout Systems and found the 34-year old male • Downspout Systems driver in a smelly car. That certain • Subdrain Systems je ne sais quoi smell-- could it be • Subdrain Systems marijuana? Yes, it could! Could • Sump Pumps the driver produce a medical mar- • Sump Pumps ijuana card? Well, he did have • R etaining Walls one once, but it wasn’t current. • PavestoneR etaining Driveway Walls & Walkways He took a second trip… to Mar- tinez for booking. • Pavestone Driveway & Walkways A General Engineering Contractor And speaking of under the influ- ence, 10/13/2011 Maybe it was the Locally A General owned Engineering and OperatedContractor full moon two nights earlier, but Orinda police stopped a 29 year old Locally Contractor owned LIC and # 762208Operated male driver and discovered…wait for it…he was under the influence Contractor LIC # 762208 of alcohol. This student of the bot- tle flunked his field sobriety test 925•377•9209 and blew a .11. He opted for the 925•377•9209 blood sample test back at head- visit our website quarters, was arrested and booked www.bayareadrainage.com at Martinez Detention Facility. Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A7 ADULT DAY PROGRAM Idyllic South Orinda Location! for those with Alzheimer’s or other related dementias New Price STIMULATING GAMES 4 BR, 3 BA, pool, magical setting ACTIVITIES CRAFTS Private/gated 1.2 acres at end of lane LIVE MUSICAL EXERCISE Offered at $959,000 ENTERTAINMENT FRIENDSHIP More at www.40ArdorDr.com For current local Market Trends data, visit: www.LamorindaValues.com For a complimentary market analysis of your specific property, contact Frank today! Frank Woodward Specializing in 925.253.4603 [email protected] 925-254-3465 Lamorinda Fine 433 Moraga Way Orinda www.holyshepherd.org Homes & Property Orinda = Lafayette = Moraga

Keeping Orinda’s Kids and Orinda Union School District Seeking Applicants to Serve on Measure B Parcel Tax Streets Safe Oversight Committee By Laurie Snyder n response to community con- conette, OUSD Superintendent to School officials demonstrated The Orinda Union School District seeks applicants to serve Icerns raised at the Moraga explore the possibility of adjust- their appreciation of the situation, on its Measure B Parcel Tax Oversight Committee. Members Way Traffic Safety Community ing school bell schedules so that however, by outlining current and must be able to serve a two-year term. The committee will Workshop held in April, city offi- school commute traffic times planned improvements. Mira- meet twice annually during normal business hours. The cials met with representatives could be staggered. monte, for example, has launched primary objective and purpose of this committee is to ensure from the Acalanes and Orinda Unfortunately, representa- a before-school breakfast pro- that the parcel tax proceeds are spent for their authorized Union School Districts (AHUSD tives from both districts indi- gram that is reducing congestion purpose and to report annually to the Board of Trustees and and OUSD) to discuss congestion cated that bell schedule changes by motivating students to arrive the public regarding the expenditure of such funds. on Moraga Way and related are not feasible. Because tighter early. If you are interested in serving on the committee, please safety issues. budgets require teachers to di- Officials also suggested in- submit an application to the Superintendent’s Office, Orinda Orinda City Manager Janet vide their time between multiple stallation of permanent radar and Union School District, 8 Altarinda Road, Orinda, CA 94563, Keeter and Council Members school buildings, bell changes increased police presence along via email to [email protected], or by fax to Dean Orr and Sue Severson would hamper the ability of school routes to remind drivers to (925) 254-5261. spoke with Miramonte High teachers to move efficiently slow down. Jaconette and School principal Adam Clark, from one school to the next Rossiter agreed to encourage par- Applications are available on the district website: Chris Learned, AUHSD’s Associ- throughout the workday. Such ents to carpool more and avoid www.orindaschools.org or by email from ate Superintendent for Business changes could also negatively taking neighborhood shortcuts as [email protected] Services, OUSD board member impact Miramonte High part of district traffic safety “do’s Application Deadline: November 10, 2011 Julie Rossiter, and Dr. Joe Ja- School’s athletic programs. and don’ts.”

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MORAGA $789,000 LAFAYETTE $749,000 4/2.5. Dramatic MCC Beauty. 4 bedrms 3/2. Original owner. Home sits in a private w/master on main level. Over 2800 sqr.ft. Hi cul-de-sac setting w/breathtaking views and ceilings. H/W, new carpet & tile. refreshing light. Wendy & Michelle Holcenberg 925-253-4600 Ted Streeter 925-253-4600

ORINDA $1,595,000 MORAGA $1,158,000 4/2.5. Traditional one-level in Downs. 4/3. Custom Home on pvt. cul-de-sac, Flat rear yard abundant w/roses. Chef’s kit., hwd flrs, raised ceilings, built- Lrg Fam/Grt room. ins, patio. Dick Holt 925-253-4600 The Beaubelle Group 925-253-4600

MORAGA $1,375,000 LAFAYETTE $3,000,000 4/4. Elegant Moraga home with 3644 5/3.5. California Estate situated on sqft, 4 bd, 4 ba, study, large level yard, 2.50 acre lot. Grand LR w/soaring pool & spa. redwood beamed ceilings.Views,Views! Elena Hood 925-253-4600 Kathy McCann & Diana Castello 925-253-4600

LAFAYETTE $2,275,000 ORINDA $995,000 MORAGA $1,559,000 MORAGA $1,595,000 ORINDA $995,000 5/4.5. Fabulous price! 4/2. Fabulous traditional one lvl home 4/2.5. Estate setting, completely 5/4.5. Wonderful Moraga Home! 4/3. Classic Orinda Rancher. Magical Exquisite remodel includes a wine cellar, w/well designed floor plan, large lot & renovated, expansive yard w/pool, grand 5041 sq ft,large kitchen, office, bonus setting on private 1.2 acre lot at very end upscale amenities and guest house. lovely gardens. views, court location room, 1.02 acre lot with pool & spa. of street. Refinished pool and patio. Karen Richardson 925-253-4600 Finola Fellner 925-253-4600 The Beaubelle Group 925-253-4600 Elena Hood 925-253-4600 Frank Woodward 925-253-4600

LAFAYETTE $1,185,000 PLEASANT HILL $759,000 MORAGA $999,000 ORINDA $1,395,000 ORINDA $1,499,000 4/2. Elegant amenities,hdwd flrs, grand 4/2. Custom ranch, gorgeous yards 5/3. Updated Campolindo home. 5/4.5. Fabulous updated home in Glo- 4/3. Gorgeous spacious house, lots of spaces, beaut views. Walk to featuring sparkling pool in a creekside Large, flat yard, high-end finishes, dual- rietta neighborhood.Great backyard. upgrades. Private setting with pool and town/schools/swim/tennis. setting.Great street! pane windows, hardwd. Close to downtown Orinda. sport court. The Beaubelle Group 925-253-4600 Jeannette Bettencourt 925-253-4600 Wendy & Michelle Holcenberg 925-253-4600 Elena Hood 925-253-4600 Rick & Nancy Booth 925-253-4600

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3435 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette (Golden Gate Way at Mt. Diablo Blvd) (925) 283-4200 Share your thoughts with our community! Opinions in Letters to the Editor are the express views of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. All published letters will include the writer's name and www.mathnasium.com city/town of residence -- we will only accept letters from those who live in, or own a business in, the communities 1 FREE WEEK OF comprising Lamorinda (please give us your phone number for verification purposes only). TUTORING & HOMEWORK HELP Letters should be 350 words or less; letters of up to 500 words will be accepted on a space-available basis. Must present coupon. New students only. Exp. 12/9/11 email: [email protected]; Regular mail: Lamorinda Weekly, P.O.Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570

Editor: The community came together in 1995 to pass a road My name is Razmin Riahi, and I am a Boy Scout in and drain bond measure. Every one of us who lives Troop 233. I am writing this as part of the Communi- in Lafayette today should be grateful to those who cations merit badge. supported that measure. While it was not sufficient As you may know, there was a city council meeting to solve the entire problem, the measure raised $13 recently where the issue of raising the speed limit on million, financed 41 specific projects (including repair Are You Cold Glorietta Blvd from 25 mph to 30 mph was discussed. of our storm drains) and put us within reach of solving This is going to allow the use of radar and citing driv- the problem today. ers for excessive speeding. This is also supposed to Now it is our turn. We can solve this problem once and Calculating? make drivers go slower. I am not in favor of this res- and for all. The funds from Measure G will enable us olution because there are alternatives. There can also to repair all failed public residential roads within ten be a negative psychological impact since drivers usu- years. Once all our roads are in good condition, we ally go faster than the posted speed limit. Additionally, will have enough money from the General Fund and once this is done, there is no going back and the dam- other sources to maintain them. age, monetary and psychologically will be done. Why should we do this? We have an obligation to Some other concerns include the fact that there are provide good roads for our entire community. We children walking and biking on that street to school, cannot do it relying on our current revenue sources, and an increase in the speed limit could be very dan- and we cannot cut expenses further without damag- gerous, as there are no bike lanes on that street. I ing the fabric of our community. Residents on should add that I among others, spoke on this at the failed roads have been paying taxes all along to re- Orinda Council meeting. I urge you to recognize this pair other people’s roads. Fixing their roads is the topic in the next issue of your paper. fair thing to do. Sincerely, And it is in all of our interests to do so. All of us drive Razmin Riahi on the failed roads. All of our property values go up George C Tuck, founder of Atlas Heating Co. in 1908. Orinda when we have well-maintained community infra- structure. Get warm and add up your savings Editor: Please vote Yes on Measure G. My name is Ryan Riahi, and I am a Boy Scout in Mayor Carl Anduri on a new furnace before November 15th* Troop 233. I am writing this as part of the Communi- Lafayette cations merit badge. Call us now for a free estimate, days, On Monday October 3rd, I attended the Orinda city Editor: evenings or weekends. council meeting along with other boy scouts from my You will soon be receiving Lafayette City Council's It’s time to get comfortable.TM troop. In that meeting one of the issues that was dis- newest tax increase scheme in Measure G in order to cussed was the leaf blower problem in Orinda. They increase spending for road and drain maintenance. were saying that the leaf blowers let out little particles The real result of this measure would be to increase that are very dangerous to the environment and pol- the City's revenue base allowing them to continue lute the air. I completely agree with this and I think it spending on 'special interests' like downtown street
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- would be great if you could publish this and help beautification, paying off old debts caused by past Tax Heatingi>̈˜}ÊEÊ
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ʈV°Ê›{n™xä£ 1908 • CA Lic #489501 Orinda to ban leaf blowers in the town. I think it takes a little effort to fix this. Everybody can start using (state) money' for Lafayette's Redevelopment Agency x£ä‡n™Î‡£Î{ÎÊ electrically powered blowers, instead of gas powered. (RDA)' loans. Lafayette residents never voted for *Rebates expire ÜÜÜ°>̏>à i>̈˜}°Vœ“ I would be very happy if this subject can get more at- RDA, and yet the City lent it General Fund money tention in your newspaper. that may never be recovered. This 'easy money' also Sincerely, obligated Lafayette to 'high density housing' which no Ryan Riahi one in Lafayette wants. Orinda The most basic responsibility the City has is 'public jtÜx Wxá|zÇá safety, and road and drains'. Every city knows this, Lafayette Measure G but somehow the Lafayette City Council has so politi- Y|Çx ]xãxÄÜç á|Çvx DLJJ cized its 'priority list' that they now want you to pay 3645 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Editor: extra so they can continue spending on their other in- Lafayette On November 8 we can come together as a commu- terests. Lafayette's tax base is more than big enough between Trader Joes & the Post Office nity to provide the funding necessary to complete the to adequately cover all basic services. 283-2988 repair of all of Lafayette’s failed public roads. Please Of course we want good roads in Lafayette, but we New Location www.waredesigns.com join a broad-based coalition of individuals and organ- should not have to pay real responsibilities, and a line 50% off izations – including more than 1,500 residents who should be drawn near the bottom to eliminate those Watch Battery signed a petition to put Measure G on the ballot, the extra 'special interests' that want free money from Now $5, Reg $10 1 watch battery per person. Exp. 11/30/11. Lafayette School District Governing Board, the taxes already paid by residents. Check your Property Tuesday-Saturday 10-6 Usually installed while you wait. W/coupon. Restrictions apply. Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, the Lafayette Tax Bill and decide if you really want to expand your Homeowners Council, the Lafayette Taxpayers Asso- legal obligation to the City by another $89 for ten ciation and the League of Women Voters of Diablo more years. Valley – in supporting Measure G and providing all Gordon Mattonen Your one-call plumber! our residents with good roads. Lafayette Measure G will provide the stable source of funding LeapFrog needed to solve our roads problem, and it will do so Editor: in a simple, effective manner: As a thirty-seven year resident of Lafayette I appre- • $89 per equivalent residential unit per year. ciate the many educational and cultural opportunities Head Frog • 10 years maximum -- terminates in less than ten PlumbingGAS, WATER & SEWER available in our community: excellent schools, a Mo Williams years if the roads are repaired sooner. world-class library, a vibrant downtown. Lafayette Does your plumbing give you a • All funds are applied directly to roads on a has many amenities of a large city yet maintains the pay-as-you-go basis. There are no bonds, no debt, semi-rural atmosphere that we all appreciate and love. i no interest payments. FR GHT? Our local roads, however, are in deplorable condition ZOT! Zap Out Trouble--before trouble zaps you. • An independent citizens committee will ensure and detract from the quality and property values of all funds are spent on our roads. our homes and neighborhoods. Lafayette can commit FREE CRAWL UNDER (It can be scary down under your house!) We need Measure G because the City simply does not $20 million over the next ten years for road repair but Good Preventive Plumbing measures will have – and will not have -- the resources to repair all additional revenue is needed to complete the $30 mil- protect you and your family from true life “Creepy Crawly”: failed roads. Because of reductions in property tax lion amount required. Measure G on the November horror stories; Broken pipes, holes in venting, crawl space plumbing revenues, the City Council this year cut over $500,000 electrolysis, sneaky leaks, and more eeeek! Inspection* $189 Value ballot will work to ameliorate this problem. The in annual expenses from the General Fund budget in money raised will be used to fix all the failed public FREE order to get it to balance. While the City has success- roads in ten years or less. On-going sources of rev- *visible and accessible plumbing; Homeowners fully applied for federal, state and regional funds to enue can keep them maintained. only; most houses Thru 11/30/2011 upgrade our arterial and collector roads (for example, Passing Measure G will enhance property values, fix work is now under way on Pleasant Hill Road near our failed roads and drains, and reduce vehicle costs. Family-owned & serving Lamorinda since 1993 Olympic), those funds cannot be used for our residen- All Lafayette residents deserve good roads. tial roads – and there are no funds available from out- green solutions! Please join me in voting YES on MEASURE G. side sources for residential roads. We have to find a Mary McCosker CA Lic 929641 way to do it ourselves. Lafayette ... continued on next page Share your thoughts, insights and opinions with your community. (925) 377-6600 LeapFrogPlumbing.com Send a letter to the editor: [email protected] Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A9 Advertising www.HelpfulRealEstateInfo.com

Letters to the Editor ...continued Editor: Vote No on Lafayette Prop. G I say Vote No on Prop. G in November as the City has neither the staff or the expertise to do the work properly or efficiently. By passing this Proposition you will be handing the City a blank check to do something they have repeatedly demonstrated that cannot do. There are endless examples of this. For one, the St. Francis road area has been paved three times in the last five years. Roads that needed no help in the first place and roads that are dead end serving TWO houses! Many of our roads are in disrepair because of trenching by utility and other companies and the City exercises no su- pervision or control How long has BART been working at EI Nido Ranch Road and Happy Valley roads? Months and months for work that should take weeks. Why so long? Be- cause they go days and weeks without doing ANYTHING and the City I was looking for a discreet does nothing. I for one 'will not vote to give the City money and get “ maybe 30% of value. I can recite instance after instance where the City way to sell my gold jewelry and it's engineering department simply did not know what to do. The idea that with this Prop. G the City is going to fix all of our roads just fine is and silver tea set. GoldFellow® nonsense. What to do then? Form a special services district, run by a pri- vate agency with people that know what they are doing and then get the was very professional job done efficiently. Proposition does not do that. VOTE NO ON G. Robert Zimmerman and paid me more. ” Lafayette

Editor: Lafayette's roads are in good condition. The politician's out of control spending, is what needs fixing. This years interest expenses are $3,194,761. Most of it for their Party Palace they call a learning center. Now the streets are polluted with signs asking for more money. Full page adds name the commissioners the politicians party with at taxpayer ex- Where people like YOU sell GOLD. pense... This propaganda is being funded by people who inherited large GoldFellow® buys gold, silver, platinum & diamonds. companies & give thousands to political campaigns.Their names are on obscenely expensive public buildings. $89 a year won't hurt them. They don't give a rat's tail about the old, poor, feeble and blind who will be We are the A+ rated Nationwide Buyer & Refiner of Gold, forced to go without food and medicine because of $89 in higher annual Silver & Platinum with a LOCAL store near YOU. taxes.
t A+ BBB rating t Professional, “bank-like” stores Long ago, I asked a pro tax heiress if she would give me $10 to attend
t No middle-man t 30+ yrs in the gold industry a City social event. She gave me a big ugly" NO " The first time I saw * BRING IN THIS COUPON FOR this woman, she had a big phony smile on her face, asking for my vote. GoldFellow® Paid* What would I expect from someone who wants to tax the blind? $377.43 The pro tax Chamber of Commerce receives $30,000 in taxpayer cash annually. The pro tax League of Women Voters, has received subsidized rent from The City for decades. I don't know how much money the pro tax Lafayette Taxpayers Association receives. They are to the taxpayers When you sell us $500 or more of gold jewelry. GoldFellow® Paid* of Lafayette, what Benedict Arnold was to the American Revolution. *Promotional offer expires 11/30/2011. Gold coins and bars are excluded from this promotion. Offer cannot be used in combination with any other offers. LAY

BONUS $153.88 Many people are paid to lie to the public. In The American Revolution *Paid on 10/3/2011 Patriots opposed taxes. Visit your local GoldFellow® store to find out what YOUR Gold is Worth! There is so much transportation money available, the plan to make a For hours, directions & other locations visit $6,000,000 bike/wheelchair path on the EBMUD right of way is still www.GoldFellow.com/california being considered. Take a walk on it pushing a wheelchair and see what CALL US FOR AN APPOINTMENT : a ridiculous idea it is. Measure G promises another committee. Expect it to be like the com- LAFAYETTE (925)962-7001 mittee that ordered an expensive environmental impact report for frogs, 3685 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Ste 250 near a proposed expensive Bike Jump Park. This committee drained all Licensed Secondhand Dealers. License Numbers: 56081050, 56071010, 19424550, 19424549, 30151294 of the parkland frog ponds in the 1990s. I told the Parks Director to send the kids to a Bike Jump Park near my home. Within a week, it was destroyed with a pickax. I wonder how sad that made those kids, who made their own Bike Jump Park. Dear Readers: Put a smile on your face, be patriotic and vote NO on Measure G. In an effort to improve the quality of our paper, we switched printers in August; our paper is now printed by Bruce R. Peterson Transcontinental Inc. in Fremont. Unlike most newspapers, we have always printed all of our pages in full color Lafayette rather than black and white, for which we have received an overwhelmingly positive response. In 2009, Transcontinental Inc. opened a new printing facility in Fremont and began printing the San Francisco Editor: Chronicle. Transcontinental invested in equipment that is geared towards color printing, which met our On November 8, Lafayette residents will vote on Measure G, a parcel expectations for our paper. tax to fund road and drain reconstruction and maintenance. It is sup- We’re excited to see our photos and advertisements printed with higher preciseness, clarity and brightness, ported by organizations that don’t frequently agree on issues -- Lafayette and feel proud to publish news and photos from our community using state of the art technology. Chamber of Commerce, Lafayette Homeowners Council, and Lafayette In this issue we again take advantage of an option to print some of our pages on glossy paper. We think this Taxpayers Association – along with residents and City Council. This unique feature, offered by Transcontinental, made our last issue stand out and we received many nice comments community-wide support should give voters comfort in the soundness and compliments. In fact, extra copies offered in our news racks were picked up more quickly than usual. We and fairness of the measure. believe that high quality writing and printing are very important aspects of our product. For a maximum of ten years, single family homeowners will pay $89 Another new feature can be found in our Life in Lamorinda section—our Halloween page is extended to per year. Properties with higher impact on the roads will contribute their make it stand out from the other pages. proportionate share. These are difficult times financially, but delaying We’re also happy that Transcontinental uses vegetable-based ink and a high percentage of recycled fiber in street repairs will ultimately cost us more. The city is committing $20 the paper which makes our product more sustainable and easier to recycle. million; Measure G would raise the $10 million needed to complete the repairs. Thank you for being a reader of our paper. Measure G was drafted with input from a broad range of residents and organizations. It is fair, with parcels taxed according to an equitable for- Andy & Wendy Scheck mula of $89 per equivalent residential unit. It is transparent, with funds Publishers deposited into a designated account so there is no comingling. It pro- vides accountability, with an Oversight Committee reviewing expendi- tures. It is efficient, with revenue applied directly to roads -- no bonds or interest. Measure G has my support. Linda Murphy Lafayette Join our Public Forum

If you have significant knowledge about an issue facing Lamorinda, or one of its communities, that requires more than the 350 words to which we must limit Letters to the Editor, don’t despair! You can submit your letter to our Public Forum section. Just send your letter to [email protected] and let us know you’d like to be considered for the Public Forum. We will not accept Public Forum submissions regarding a current ballot measure or candidate for public office. Opinions expressed in Public Forum are the express views of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. Page: A10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Lic# 681593 General Contractor 925.631.1055 www.MVCRemodeling.com Specializing in kitchens & bathrooms. All forms residential remodel/repair.

“A little bit of myself ASSOCIATES goes into every job.” REAL ESTATE 93 Moraga Way, Orinda Michael VerBrugge, Owner, Moraga Resident Butterflies are Free Clean | Courteous | Conscientious On-time | Trustworthy | Local References ... continued from page A1 Full design team resources available

Lamorinda Moms’ 14th Annual Preschool Fair November 3, 2011 · 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Oakwood Athletic Club, Lafayette

Gather preschool information from over From left: Christine Chai Kelly with daughter Jamie Kelly; Stephanie and Hania Kusinski; Maryeda Theer; Hania's 35 local preschools at one time, in one place grandmother, Karen Chin; and teacher Bess Inzeo. Photos Doug Kohen For more information go to: Theer developed Rheem’s butterfly curriculum in missed her own class Butterfly Parade two years ago be- http://www.lamorindamoms.org/activities/preschool_fair 1974. She says she “stole” the idea from a Leo Politi book cause she was sick. Obsitnik enjoyed watching the “sea called The Butterflies Come. It was the perfect teachable of little wings” and taking photos she would send to the moment, combining writing, art, math and science. girls’ grandmother. Beadleson says it was “one of the best units in kinder- Students and parents ended the event with class par- garten. The kids remember it.” Teachers and students ties, featuring butterfly cookies and punch. For all in at- DRIVEWAY NEED REPAIRING? hunted the hills then in search of milkweed plants holding tendance, it doesn’t get much better. With this program, eggs. After butterflies disappeared from the hillsides, adds Kindergarten teacher Cathy Kathan, “We’re keeping Call the teachers turned to mail order. That first year Theer had the magic in kindergarten!” Resurfacing Experts! boys dressed as a caterpillar; now all kindergarteners sprout wings. Teacher Bess Inzeo says the students begin their but- terfly studies in early October. The caterpillars arrive, shed their skins and become chrysalides. Some two weeks later the butterflies emerge. The class feeds them for a few days, and then releases them at the parade, “…if mother nature cooperates,” notes Inzeo. This year’s parade was especially important to Anne Obsitnik, whose mother teaches kindergarten in Winnetka, Illinois using a similar curriculum. Anne’s daughter Car- oline was a participant, and Caroline’s older sister Chase Driveways received special permission to attend the parade. Chase Maureen Kang takes a peek into the butterfly basket Private Roads Tennis & Sports Courts Parking Lots Get Swept Up in the Midsummer Magic Seal Coating ADA Ramps & Stalls OIS presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream Submitted by Diane Sharp

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• Large TVs/ Refrigerators and appliances Licensed Cabinet & • Recycle Bins and shelf pullouts Millwork Contractor • Cabinet alterations/repairs #598395 Thinking about home, office, entertainment, custom cabinetry, shelving, crown mouldings, baseboards, new doors or mantels? We can help there, too! Paul Kephart Master Craftsman 925.827.1093 www.TheCabinetMd.com The Wednesday cast rehearses for A Midsummer Night's Dream Photo provided rinda Intermediate School’s Bulldog Theater Com- about creating a dramatic production of their own to per- Opany, wanting to share the incredible work of form during the Homecoming festivities. The battling of Shakespeare and bring it to life for school children fairy king and queen, Oberon and Titania, supported by throughout our community, will present A Midsummer their respective entourages of greasers and pink lady AARP Auto Insurance Night’s Dream to audiences in early November. fairies, cause all sorts of mayhem with the mortals, going This is not only a great chance to see Shakespeare in as far as transforming one of the players into a half-man Program from The Hartford action but also an educational opportunity for students – half-donkey. Oberon’s right hand henchmen, Puck and as an incentive for the younger crowd to attend, $1.00 tick- Robin Goodfellow, eventually set everything aright and Now available from your ets to the two preview nights will be offered to anyone 17 the “Enchantment under the Stars” Homecoming celebra- local independent agent! or under. tion goes off without a hitch, ensuring that all fairies and It’s not every day that a Lamorinda middle school humans find their own happily ever after. tackles the world of Shakespeare on stage – the Bulldogs Performances: may well be the first to do so – but OIS is ready to enter- November 2-6 (six performances, three for each cast) tain and amaze you. • Nov 2 at 4:30 (preview $1 - 17 & under) Theseus and Hippolyta are soon to be crowned the • Nov 3 at 4:30 (preview $1 - 17 & under) king and queen of Homecoming at Athens High in this • Nov 4 at 5 & 8pm 1950’s era re-imagining of Shakespeare’s classic tale. • Nov 5 at 3 & 7pm When underclassmen Hermia and Lysander refuse to date Tickets: the match chosen for them by the social pecking order, Available online at www.ShowTix4u.com or at the door they take matters into their own hands and run away, leav- one hour before each show. ing behind an unrelenting competitor (Demetrius) and a Wednesday and Thursday Preview shows are general heart-sick confidant (Helena). Soon mischief and magic seating: $6 Adults / $1 Students The MRP Automobile Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwriUen by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its afliliates One Hartford Plaza, Hartford CT 06155. CA license number 5152. MRP befall them in the suburban woods, and passion potions Friday and Saturday shows are reserved seating: $10 membership is required fOf Program eligibility in most stales. MRP and its affiliates are not insurance flip their affections in the blink of an eye. Premier Seating agencies or carriers and do nol employ or endorse insurance agents, brokers, representatives or advisors, The premiums quoted by an authorized agent for any Program polty include the additional Meanwhile, in preparation for the Homecoming fes- Orinda Intermediate School, Multi Purpose Room costs associated with the advice and counsel thai your authorized agent provides. 107446 2nd Rev tivities, the Athens High misfit squad of mechanicals set 80 Ivy Drive, Orinda, (925) 258-3090 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B1 SMC Launches Center for Environmental Literacy A new home for River of Words By Andrea A. Firth

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EJTDPVOUT Bring a friend and receive a gift Untitled Call Today to Schedule an Appointment 2010 Finalist; Nutchanan Ratchakul, age 10, Bangkok, Thailand, Demon- stration School (Primary), Teacher: Pichai Niyomtham path, unpredictable, habitat, “We need to educate our kids to 925-283-8502 “A shelter, wildlife, recreation, our deal with the world they will face,” life’s blood, new life, reflection, need says Robert Hass, the Berkeley- 3581 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette protection, community.” What’s the based former U.S. Poet Laureate and connection between these words? a Saint Mary’s College of California These are the responses grade school alumni. Hass is the co-founder of and high school students gave when River of Words with writer and edu- asked to define a watershed. The re- cation advocate Pamela Michael. sponses were part of River of Words, “It’s place-based education. Students a nationally acclaimed ecoliteracy pro- use their own communities and gram that encourages young people to ecosystems as their source for learn- explore the watersheds where they live ing,” says Michael, who will also and trains educators to guide them in serve as the Director of the new cen- the process. Started in 1995, River of ter at SMC. Words is an environmental poetry and With the arrival of River of visual arts program for students in Words, SMC has also become the kindergarten through 12th grade that is keeper of the world’s largest collec- now based in thousands of schools in tion of children’s art and poetry almost all fifty states and several coun- amassed from the program’s annual tries throughout the world. international youth poetry and art River of Words recently found a contest. The contest inspires students new home at Saint Mary’s College to find the nexus between art, sci- (SMC) as part of the newly launched ence, writing, and the environment, Center for Environmental Literacy. according to Michael, “The work The new Center, housed in the these young students submit repre- Kalmanovitz School of Education at sents an amazing intersection be- SMC, will explore and promote the tween the environment and art.” study of nature and the arts in Kinder- To find out more about SMC’s garten through 12th grade education. new Center for Environmental “The Center will help prepare the next Literacy go to generation of education leaders to ad- http://www.stmarys-ca.edu/ dress global ecological concerns,” node/9159. says School of Education Dean Phyl- To find out more about River of lis Metcalf-Turner. The Center will Words Art & Poetry Contest for also support faculty in other depart- 2012 (the entry deadline in ments within SMC to incorporate en- 12/1/11) go to vironmental issues into their research http://www.stmarys-ca.edu/ river-of-words/art-poetry-contest. and the college coursework.

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Battle of the Choirs By Sophie Braccini surprised the audience with soloist Katie Marino starting an African Pro- cessional arranged by D.V. Montoya, alone on stage—marching to the rhythm of her song and of a powerful drum, the rest of the choir gradually joined her on stage. Roberts then of- fered the audience two modern pieces that took full advantage of the large pool of talent among his group of singers. He did not shy away from pushing the sound volume and in- creasing the auditory contrasts in the Lamentations of Jeremiah, and had the singers interpret The Battle of Jericho in a very modern arrange- ment by Moses Hogan. The Miramonte Choir, directed Choirs from Lamorinda’s three high schools all sing together Photo Andy Chang by Bruce Lengacher, presented two he annual “battle of the choirs,” that the 200-voice strong combined as a battle, each school tries to put classical and perfectly executed Tat which Acalanes, Cam- choirs would sing together at the end forth its best creative effort. The songs. Amor de mi Alma, by Randall polindo and Miramonte showcase of the evening. Before the grand fi- Acalanes Choir, directed by Megan Stroope, was especially exquisite, and their musical talents, featured the nale each school presented its own Perdue, opened the evening with Tres very finely tuned in all of its nuances usual level of top-notch performances program: 3 songs by each choir and 3 Cantos Nativos dos Indios Krao, a by Lengacher. for a crowd of adoring parents and songs by the elite sub-groups called piece freely based on melodies sung The third piece by the Acalanes friends. either “Chamber” or “Choral.” The by the Krao tribe, a group of native Choir, Vamuvamba (“They Crucified The Fall Choral Classic Reper- juniors and seniors had their day on Brazilian Indians who live in the Him”) is a traditional Tiriki melody toire was a day-long affair for the stu- October 18, while the sophomores Amazonian forest of northwestern from Kenya that was adapted and dents— they mingled from 8:00 a.m. performed two days later. Brazil, and adapted by Marcos Leite arranged by Boniface Mganga, the to 3:00 p.m. to learn three new songs Although the evening is not billed who was well-known in Brazil as a founder and director of the Kenyan conductor, composer, and musical Muungano National Choir. The theater director. The beautiful piece young Lafayette students, with the mixes bird songs, rhythms and voices, help of a drum, interpreted joyfully and required from the students and the energetic African music. Prepare your Roof and their director a different type of mu- Guest conductor Lori Marie Rios sicianship. The precision of Perdue’s conducted the finale, appropriately Gutters for Winter direction came out beautifully, show- called the Mass Choir. The result of casing some lovely voices such as that the day’s work was impressive, not of soprano Lindsay Ford. only because of the sheer number of New Work and Repairs Newcomer Mark Roberts made singers, but because they memorized All Types of Roofs and Gutters his first formal appearance as conduc- and sang everything perfectly. As Clean/Screen, Roof Powerwashing. tor of the Campolindo team. Neither Rios put it, “Music is more than notes timid nor overly cautious, Roberts did and rhythm; it is a way to self discov- We do it all! not hesitate to take the Campolindo ery, to better understanding of others’ Concert Choir off the beaten path. He culture and ways of life.” Famous Author Comes to Lamorinda Reads Event By Cathy Tyson amorinda Reads will celebrate brary and Learning Center, “We Lits grand finale event for the know that people outside our area also year with well known San Francisco read our Lamorinda Reads choices author Glen David Gold discussing every year so we've developed a fol- Over 20 Years Experience his book, Carter Beats the Devil, on lowing. Plus, I'd like a nickel for the All Raingutters Systems, Inc. November 1. Senior Community Li- number of times people have raved brary Manager Susan Weaver antici- about the book to me.” 925-381-7620 Lic #793315 pates a big turnout in the spacious Weaver explains that they try to Community Hall of the Lafayette Li- choose a title that both men and women will enjoy, ideally with a local angle. “This book was easy for us be- cause it has absolutely everything most readers would delight in - a thriller, a mystery, and tantalizing his- xt step, torical fiction to make people wonder Take the ne what part's true and what the author h & stay for life. has simply made up. In terms of come for lunc check outs, I did a rough count and as of today, the book has been checked out around 1,300 times,” she says. These premier residences are going fast. Indeed Carter Beats the Devil has Rent and amenities all for one low price. gotten glowing reviews since its pub- lication in 2001, even The New Yorker called it, “the most entertaining ap- Monthly Rates pearing acts of recent years.” The tale includes an eccentric cast of characters as Fall Harvest low as including President Harding, real-life $1,787 Open House prize fighter Benny Leonard, Philo on Farnsworth and ghosts at Lake Merritt It’s worry free living! Sat., Nov. 12 along with hardship and heartbreak. 10am-12noon From the initial “cold-call” e-mail from Caroline Glick, Orinda Library’s Senior Community Library Manager, Gold responded enthusiastically. Glick had read the book when it came out, Googled the author, and sent her request. Look for Glen David Gold at The Lafayette Library and Learn- An affordable, independent ing Center on Tuesday November 1st retirement lifestyle. Call today for Your at 7:00 p.m. in the Community Hall. Complimentary Although the event is free, books will 6401 Center Street Clayton CA 94517 be available for purchase courtesy of Lunch and Tour Orinda Books and can be auto- www.diamondterrace.net graphed. Readers may also be famil- (925) 524-5100 iar with Gold’s wife, Alice Sebold, author of The Lovely Bones and The Almost Moon. Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B3 Not Shaken During Quake Drill Your Lamorinda By Cathy Dausman specialist for the past 11 years

Recognized, Respected, Recommended

Alex Gailas, Orinda resident since 1984 Experience and Knowledge call Alex Gailas "Duck and cover" starts in Carla Unroe's classroom Photo Cathy Dausman Broker, Owner, CRS, GRI, CFS ously that he became wedged under- 925-254-7600 neath his desk and needed help get- 43 Moraga Way Ste 203, Orinda ting out. The students then grabbed www.AlexGailas.com Across from Orinda Theater their backpacks (a concession be- cause this was a drill; in a real emer- gency they’d leave their possessions behind) and headed to the football ZEPHYR JUGGLINg field with the rest of the student body. Always wanted to learn to juggle? Teachers hung green door markers Private, semi-private, or group juggling lessons (“all accounted for”) before heading out; if a student was injured or unac- For kids and adults ages 8 and up counted for the teacher stayed behind One-time classes or ongoing workshops and hung a red marker. Unique gift for adults, awesome birthday party activity for any age! Three students had mock injuries Taught by founder of Emeryville's Splash Circus youth troupe that added to the realism. Senior Nick Contact Chelsea at 510-406-0880 or [email protected] Read suffered a broken neck and was strapped to a head board. Madison Gibson supposedly broke her ankle during the earthquake and Danielle Meyer was cut by glass going to Gib- son’s assistance. Fortunately, those students were “injured” at Miramonte High School, where a portion of John Grigsby’s Sports Medicine students

acted as a medical triage team. Lic #855456 Grigsby says his students learn CPR The Haddon Family, Orinda Residents, Owners/Operators and are first aid certified. Once on the field, classes assem- Do business Students applied a backboard and C collar to a simulated victim who was bled with their teachers, and atten- with a neighbor. hit by a falling light fixture Photo Dennis Rein dance was taken again. The drill ver 1200 Miramonte High visited Glorietta Elementary School, finished smoothly, thanks to “a great OSchool students, faculty and and an Orinda police detective was deal of planning and coordination staff took an hour last Thursday sent to Orinda Intermediate School), across the school and wider commu- morning to duck, cover and evacuate this was the real deal. nity,” says McAlister. their classrooms as participants in this Associate Principal Michael Over 8.6 million Californians year’s Great California Shake Out, an McAlister introduced himself: “Hi, participated in this year’s Great Cal- earthquake preparedness program. I’m Incident Commander today.” ifornia Shake Out (http://www.shake- While other Lamorinda schools That meant McAlister, FRS (Family out.org/), up from 7.9 million also participated (Campolindo High Radio Service) radio and “go bag” at participants last year. U.S. Census Your comfort is our #1 priority School ran a “duck and cover” drill, hand, was in charge. He was accom- figures for 2010 show the state’s pop- Haddon Heating & Cooling specializes in System Inspection Orinda Police Chief Jeffrey Jennings panied by Dennis Rein, of the Moraga ulation at 37,253,956; meaning • residential furnaces • heaters • air conditioners • ductwork Orinda Fire District (MOFD), and roughly 25 per cent of Californians • repairs • upgrades • maintenance and service. $79 Tom Chan, Orinda Citizen’s Corps participated. After the Hayward FREE ESTIMATES • FAST SERVICE Furnace/ A/C Council. Science teacher and amateur Fault jolts felt around the Bay Area Check up* *service includes a free standard radio operator Dan Shortenhaus later that day, maybe even more will 925-521-1380 sized 1” disposable filter. checked in to the Orinda city emer- get involved next year. Monday-Friday 7am - 5pm (closed for lunch) We do offer a variety of pleated and washable filters. gency communications frequency, www.haddonheatingcooling.com Exp. November 30, 2011 saying he felt the drill went well. From the start, McAlister ex- pected good things: “Miramonte is a culture of care,” he said, explaining that everyone would look out for each other. It was business as usual in Carla Unroe’s third period Spanish class From left: Lois Halls, Emily Reichardt until the word came to duck and cover and Teena Rigal confer on the field (“terremoto” is “earthquake” in Span- Photo Cathy Dausman ish). One student took his job so seri-

Why is Home Care Assistance the leading choice of older adults in the Tri Valley/Lamorinda community? )! "###$  )#76B286#)#!77&#!5#%'9#52$B285!&2'!#$520285#A7#16'9#5267#5 Students from Unroe's class, from left: Unroe's class: Jake Woodlee, Jonathan )! "###$  '67&#)#"#5'1&285"B"B@##()'9#'1!5# Chan, Matt Moran, Zach Barber and Steven Shepard Photos Cathy Dausman )! "###$  3529'"#6&'%&48)'7B 21"#"1"'1685#"!5#%'9#56@&25# #A3#5'#1!#"'1!5#$252)"#5"8)76 )! "###$  &#)36@'7&0#)63#5621)!5#751632577'211"025# )! "###$  &6 ##17&#23&2'!#'17&#B$5#$25&20#!5#6'1!#%% )! "###$  @527#7&# 22(6      1"   9') )#21$0C21!20&#B5#5#6285!#$257&#'1"8675B6@#))6$0')'#6

##7##$"##66#'67&#!)'#17!5#01%#5$2528519'))#* )1875##(2$$'!##&6 ##1@25('1%212)"#5"8)76'668#6$25025# 7&17#1B#561"63#!')'C#6'1&20#!5#)#6#!))#66#7216@#5 1B48#67'216B280B&9# 287&20#!5# ##!""! #%$$! $      '''"! "###$ "!   ! (&* &*  Senior Nick Read (on brace board) being treated for a "broken neck" Page: B4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011

CASH & INCENTIVES UP TO $2,425 WHEN YOU UPGRADE TO AC OR FURNA CE $ MAINTENANCE A NEW HIGH EFFICIENCY SYSTEM BY NOV 15TH, 2011. 85 Call for details Coupon Expires 9/30/ 11 It’s While enjoying perfect weather and the game, keep in mind, rebates are at their highest. GOOD! ACS Air Conditioning Systems Since 1969 5151-C Port Chicago Hwy., Concord, CA 94520 License# 632329 (925) 676-2103 • www.ACSystemsInc.com Remember…. You’re not winning if your heating and cooling system fails when you need it!! Life Meets the Afterlife in Lafayette By Cathy Dausman rinda has no cemeteries within tery District. For those in Alamo, October 26 at 3:00 p.m. in the Oits boundaries, nor does Mor- Danville, Blackhawk, Rossmoor, Di- Lafayette Library and Learning Center. aga. Neither does Walnut Creek. So ablo, San Ramon and parts of Walnut On October 30 they will also lead when some Lamorinda residents want Creek it is a line-item notation on the the cemetery’s first public adult walk- their family members buried locally, Contra Costa County tax bill. It is ing tour. McCosker regularly takes they turn to Lafayette. non-denominational, still in use, and groups of Lafayette grade school chil- Lafayette is home to three ceme- plots and urn spaces are available. dren through the cemetery as part of teries: Oakmont and Queen of Visiting hours are sunup to sundown. their classroom introduction to local Heaven, both in unincorporated Mary McCosker, of the Lafayette history. But the hillside is “not an Lafayette, and Lafayette Cemetery, Historical Society, and Nancy Flood, easy place to walk,” so the sedentary on Mt. Diablo Boulevard. The latter Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District, lecture is an option. is part of the Alamo-Lafayette Ceme- will share stories of the grave sites on Both events are fundraisers for the Lafayette Historical Society. The cost for either event is $10 for mem- bers, $15 for non-members. Those Writing College Essays? who attend both events are eligible for a $5 discount. Need help? Lafayette Cemetery had its first Photos Cathy Dausman Writing coach Cynthia Brian burial in 1854, when a neighbor al- the ill-fated Donner party have a fam- ghosts and goblins. McCosker sees lowed Henrietta Hodges’ parents to ily plot in Lafayette Cemetery (they the cemetery as “not spooky, not helps college applicants bury her on a portion of his land. were the lucky ones—they arrived in scary… just part of the Circle of Life.” write compelling essays. Hodges died of tuberculosis at age 13. California by ship.) At least two Additional cemetery information Lafayette Cemetery Corporation di- may be found online at: "Rachel powered through her essay Medford Gorham, the neighbor, de- rectors are buried there, along with Lafayette Cemetery: and application after her session scribed the place as, “a pleasing teachers Jennie Bickerstaff Rosenberg http://alamolafayettecemetery.net/alcd with you. Working with you was the grassy knoll with good drainage and and Benjamin Shreve (who was also _docu/pdf/poi.lafayette.map.pdf. right focus, right person, right time. a vista of lovely valleys and hills and a Lafayette postmaster). One plot Queen of Heaven: We can't thank you enough! You are hillsides.” It’s like that still today. The cemetery officially opened in holds a man buried with his beloved http://www.cfcscemeteries.org/loca- amazing!" Mother 1874, when Gorham sold 4.5 acres of dog. McCosker says a Siamese cat tions/queen-of-heaven-lafayette Call 925-377-STAR or email land to the newly formed Cemetery named Ling Ling was also buried in Oakmont: Corporation of Lafayette. Over time, or near the cemetery and legend has http://aftercareplanning.com/oak- [email protected] a number of notables have been laid it the cat and dog meet at night. mont-memorial-park/ to rest there. John Standish, a descen- Although both lecture and walk- For Lafayette Cemetery lecture or Hourly fees. Book your writing session today. Cynthia cares. dent of Mayflower Pilgrim Myles ing tour fall near Halloween, Mc- tour reservations, call (925) 283-1848 Standish, is buried there. Relatives of Cosker says it is purely happenstance. or e-mail Lafayette.history@com- Think more All Hallows Eve than cast.net Cemetery Etiquette First time visitors to any cemetery may wonder what behavior is ex- pected of them, or if there are any “rules” about being in the presence of those dead and buried. Is it accept- able to walk about the grave sites? What about walking on top of a grave? As for the latter, “you can’t avoid that,” says Patricia Howard, Su- perintendent and General Manager for the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District. A majority of what looks to be open spaces are actually early bur- ial sites, many of which are without 6SRQVRUHGE\ headstones. Early plots measured 4 by 10 feet; in the early 1900’s the sites were reduced to 3 by 8 feet. Howard says to her knowledge, the cemetery has never had an issue with unsuitable behavior. In her 18 plus years at this job, she has come to realize that different cul- tures have unique ways of memorializing their loved ones. She cites the Jewish custom of leaving a stone at a grave site, and recalls a Korean fam- ily who mourned the death of a child in near silence until the arrival of a young and very vocal paid mourner. Howard says it is fine to make grave rubbings, as long as people realize they need to support upright headstones so they are not loosened or damaged in the process. She appreciates the work Mary McCosker does with elementary school students from Lafayette, who learn respect for the cemetery while be- coming familiar with their city’s early history. Howard considers the park- like Lafayette Cemetery “a safe place to be” to remember departed loved ones, and asks only that everyone treat it “as their own home.” C. Dausman THE APP RAP $UWZRUNLQVSLUHGE\ By Eric Pawlakos 0LNDHOD9DOHULR $JH My Tracks For Iphones, Ipads, Android 6XQGD\2FWREHU Price: Free DP'RZQWRZQ/DID\HWWH ne of the great things about time that you were actually moving. 3DUNLQJDYDLODEOHDW%$57 Osmart phones is that they all For hill climbers, it monitors come equipped with GPS sensors. your elevation, your elevation gain, 0LOH5XQ:DON DP ‡. DP ‡. DP My Tracks is a simple, easy to use and your maximum elevation. 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Lafayette Artists on Life • 100% no-risk money-back guarantee • Only 15 minute appointment minimum and Work • Evening & weekend appointments available • Fast, friendly service-in plain English Juliet and Dean MacCannell prepare • Computer repair, advice, setup for Day of the Dead exhibit • Virus Removal By Lou Fancher Nerd4Rent.com schedule your appointment! (925) 283-5666

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The the central image in the MacCannells' current installation. It is about 2.5 by 4.5 feet on transparency and lighted from behind. Photo provided by Juliet MacCannell or Juliet and Dean MacCannell, while Dean “brewed.” FLafayette writers and visual “I was interested in the metaphor artists, preparing for the annual Day and I knew Juliet’s piece would have of the Dead exhibition at SOMArts light coming from within. I wanted to Cultural Center in San Francisco do something with the light coming meant gazing deeply into the eyes of from without,” Dean said, about the At the UC Eye Center in Berkeley, good vision is a family affair. Pablo Picasso. glitter-filled Picasso-esque renderings From kids 6 to 9 months old to mature grandparents, we have The 2011 show’s theme, “illumi- framing the light box. “That’s the par- nations”, offered an opportunity to ex- adox about illumination: what’s the everything it takes for complete examinations, plore light as a source of inspiration source of thought? Do you get it from a vast Eyewear Center for glasses and contact and to dedicate the work they pro- your teacher, or from your soul?” duced to the great Cubist artist. Research and reflection are pri- lenses, and the latest in Wavefront laser surgery. The MacCannells have partici- mary tools in their technique. Juliet pated in curator René Yañez’s cele- brings a relentless focus on cultural Please see us soon! bration of death and loss every year phenomena and excavating the psy- since 1998. choanalytical aspect of an artist or art Open to the Public 7 Days a week www.caleyecare.com “It’s always exciting because you object. Dean is more anthropological, never know what the theme will be diving into the origins and cultural Free parking with appointments. 510.642.2020 until two months before. And you progression from a thought or idea to can’t do the same thing each time: a physical representation. you have to bring something fresh,” “Our work has a political aspect Juliet said. and [Yañez] loves that, although he Seated in their home, under tow- says, ‘Oh, you’re going to get me in ering book shelves and in view of an trouble!’” Juliet laughed. outdoor work bench scattered with One year, an angry construction glitter, wood scraps, sketches and glue worker, disliking how the vitriolic guns, the two artists spoke about their power commercial developer Joe O’- current project and life as artists. Donoghue had been depicted, came to HW Construction “We both had thoughts that we the exhibition with a crowbar. would be visual artists when we were “He destroyed our piece and de- younger. But as soon as we went to manded Juliet give him our phone and Home Remodeling Inc. college, the demand for our essays number,” Dean recalled. “She gave was so intense!” Dean exclaimed. him the phone number of the local po- Your Home Remodeling Company Their good fortune as writers led lice department instead.” (925)-497-2687 them to become college educators and This year’s piece, especially the the first non-fiction writers invited to collage of images Juliet has created in Headlands Center for the Arts, an in- a layered process involving sketching, cubator for artistic exploration located painting in Photoshop, and the incor- in the Marin Headlands. poration of fragments of Picasso’s “At first, we were getting the cold own artwork, is less directly con- shoulder,” Dean recalled. “The artists frontational. were thinking, ‘What are these pro- Still, there are messages: pay at- fessors doing getting this big, valu- tention to poverty and how it restricts able residency?’ As soon as I told and represents reality; ask yourself if them I was writing because I had to, W an image can communicate without not because of some institution, they the alibi of words, ponder the tension CONSTRUCTIONCONSTRUCTIONU accepted us.” between those who believe light em- Acceptance led to collaboration, anates from within and those who which is the starting point for the light seek answers through external means. • Kitchen and Bathroom Remodels box installation still under construc- Dean insisted that their work and • Room Additions tion and the three-by five foot trans- their 46-year marriage are not hard • Windows/Doors/Siding Replacement parency stretched across the dining work. room table. “I never considered for an instant • Decks/Trellises/Arbors “It’s very concept driven,” Juliet there was labor involved here at all,” • Tile and Hardwood Installation explained. he admitted, looking across the room The MacCannells had just re- for affirmation. • Crown Molding, Casing and baseboard turned from Europe and their usual Juliet remembered one, singular • Retaining Walls/Fences routines were in a jumble when they hardware store disagreement—over a • Drywall Installation and Repair saw the Picasso exhibition at the dishwasher valve—that was so un- DeYoung Museum. common, their young niece worried it “I looked at Picasso and his fail- might signal a turn for the worse in Call 925-497-2687 ure to do a self-portrait that accurately their marriage. reflected him. His eyes never resem- “But everything we do is a collab- for a free estimate today! ble his own eyes: they always look oration: the work, the children,” she flat, vacant,” Juliet said. concluded. “We talk a lot, which is License # 963083 - Licenced/Bonded/Insured Fascinated by this inconsistency apparently what many married people from an artist whose work she be- stop doing after a while. And we al- lieves reveals the overlooked or ways figure out a strategic way with www.hwcca.com under-realized, Juliet began to draw each other.” Page: B6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011

We are pleased to make space available whenever possible for some of Lamorinda’s dedicated community service organizations to submit news and information about their activities. Submissions can be sent to Community Service [email protected] the subject header In Service to the Community. Campolindo’s Friend of National Charity League Tea at Moraga Education Royale Submitted by Mary Eggertsen Submitted by Clare Varellas Club Board member and Webmaster, member of the School Advisory Council and a parent representative on the WASC Focus on Learning Assess- ment and Accountability committee for the past two years. To this work as a volunteer, Chris has brought a global and business per- spective, always looking for better ways of communicating pertinent in- formation and community news with students and parents. As a member of Chris Banard Photo provided the School Advisory Council and ampolindo parent Chris Banard WASC Focus Group, his active and Cwas honored as Campolindo’s thoughtful voice has shared concerns, Su Stauffer Friend of Education at insights and ideas on how Cam- Wednesday night’s AUHSD govern- polindo could improve and best serve Photo provided ing board meeting. Our students, the needs of students and the greater esidents of Moraga Royale The tea is put on every year by was very interesting that the girls school and community are indeed for- community. RAssisted Living and local the sophomore class of Lamorinda chose to do a fashion show, and many tunate to have had Chris as a support- As if this were not enough time high school girls in the Lamorinda NCL, so this year it was the NCL of the girls participated. It seemed ive and tireless volunteer and spent supporting our school, Chris is chapter of the National Charity Class of 2014’s responsibility to or- like the residents enjoyed it,” said basketball coach. also the Boys’ JV basketball coach League (NCL) gathered on Sunday, ganize and prepare for the event. Marcie Schmitz, an NCL mother and Not only has he put in countless and overall program manager. He October 16 at Moraga Royale for The sophomore girls arranged food Philanthropic Co-Chair for the event. hours as a parent of two Campolindo works positively with the administra- an annual tea. assignments, work shifts, and a fash- The tea seemed to be an overall students—Brett, who now attends Cal tion, athletic department, parents and The event gave the teenagers a ion show for entertainment in the pleasant and fun experience for all Poly and Ryan, a sophomore—but students and is one of the major rea- chance to sit down with the men and month prior to the tea. who attended. The girls especially Chris has served as: Parent Advisor for sons why our program has been suc- women of Moraga Royale to chat After the girls set up for the tea enjoyed interacting with the resi- four years to the Class of 2010, Parent cessful in supporting our student while sipping tea and snacking on and arranged the food on Sunday, dents and the satisfying feeling that athletes achieving the honorable. finger food. Girls and residents alike Moraga Royale residents entered and they had done something beneficial Chris’s dedication and passion for enjoyed this opportunity to commu- were seated and served. The high for their community. Campolindo is greatly valued and ap- nicate and connect with members of schoolers spread throughout the room NCL sophomore members Julia preciated. He sets an example for all another generation. to sit and chat with the attending res- Nishioki and Abby Brzezinski said, of us in finding a passion and interest “I enjoyed getting to talk to peo- idents. Following this social time “[Our] favorite part was definitely that benefits the greater good. Chris ple from earlier generations, and I came a fashion show organized by the sitting at the tables and being able to has been a permanent fixture on the had a lot of fun meeting new people NCL girls to showcase their high hear [the residents’] stories and how Campolindo campus, and he and his and learning new things,” said Grace school Homecoming dresses, every- they appreciated having us here. It’s family will be sorely missed when Moran, a member of the NCL tenth day clothing, and sports uniforms. simple things like that that make they move later this month to Boston. grade class. “I think it was a great success…it NCL all worth it.”

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Call Jose 925.708.7080 (925) 787­5743 510-893-1343 www.atlasheating.com License #: 018287 www.absoluteplumbing.us 25 yrs. experience Since 1908 www.bayareaunderpinning.org in Lamorinda Insured & Bonded Lic. #890248 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B7 Ask Dr. Harold: OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE Beautiful handcrafted items, ing 40 Homework at Ye gourmet goodies, and works of art. r ar b s By Harold Jules Hoyle Ph.D. e l Friday, Nov. 11 e was recently at a parent talk in a the classic standard is to assign no a week and your kids will learn C 9 am - 7 pm Ischool and was hit with the ques- more than 10 minutes of home- more about different ways to solve Saturday, Nov. 12 tion about homework. As a parent, work per grade. If you know what problems and different ways to 9 am - 5pm I dealt and continue to deal with the the teacher is trying to accomplish learn. If you set aside some time for Lamorinda homework that spawned with the homework and you use homework then the time is used for ELK’S LODGE the Race to Nowhere film and ac- this guide, then you can create a academic tasks. If there is no home- 1475 Creekside Dr., Walnut Creek companying movement. As a fac- system that accommodates impor- work or they “got it done in class” ulty member at Santa Clara tant factors you know about your then they have extra time to do University, I am responsible for child. Take that painful 90 minutes some other creative, academically- training teachers. There are peer re- and break it into three 15-minute oriented activity. The reality is that viewed research studies on both study sessions with 15 minutes of kids who resist and spend hours on sides of the homework debate and I play or relaxation or physical ac- homework in elementary school will leave that debate for another tivity in between. Children strug- would have plenty of time to play if venue. Here is a psycho-educa- gle with aspects of homework like we were more consistent in helping tional breakdown of getting your starting or finishing or going too them build study habits. You or kid to do what the teacher assigns. fast. Each of these has a different your child should work with your Why do I have to do homework? solution. A key parental mistake teachers to learn what they are try- Kids have a very valid point we all make is solving the problem ing to accomplish with homework. when they ask this question. before we know what the issues Remind your child how good it Teachers should be able to answer are. It is more efficient to help your feels to work hard and accomplish a this question. It could be practice, child learn the material by finding goal. And reward your kid for it could be to strengthen a con- out how their mind works rather learning that is done well, be it cept, it could be to connect prac- than imposing the study habits that homework or playtime. tice to theory, or you could find worked for you. Discuss the work they are just in the habit of giving with them. Try different solutions. Lamorinda’s it out. With standardized testing Another key is to emphasize the eating up instructional days and learning not the grade. We coach Religious Services more requirements from state and our students to ask teachers how national standards, teachers these they can bring up their grade. We days have much more to cover in need to coach them to ask how less time. And don’t forget, while they can learn to write a better you were in college and being paragraph. www.drharoldhoyle.com young married people, informa- What is homework? Harold can be contacted by tion has been increasing in sub- Homework is a habit. Teachers phone or email: 510-219-8660 ject areas at a rate of over 60% a may use it for all sorts of purposes [email protected] year. There is simply more his- but at the core it is a habit we build Harold is licensed clinical psychologist tory/science/English/mathematics over time. It becomes easier with and a lecturer and in the School of to teach. Enforcing an assign- all of the aspects that help in build- Counseling Psychology, Education, and ment for a teacher becomes easier ing habits. Have a time and a place Pastoral Ministries Santa Clara Univer- Our Savior’s Lutheran (ELCA) Costume sity. With his wife and two children he 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette once you and your child know the for your child to do homework. A is a 14 year long resident of the Lamor- 283-3722 www.oslc.net Festival! purpose of the assignment. hungry, hot, and tired kid will have inda area. He is a sought after speaker SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP 9:45 Sunday Why do I have to do homework difficulty building habits. We learn in the areas of parenting, education, be- 8:30 a.m. Classic Service now? better with others sometimes. Have havior with adolescents and children. 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Service Oct 30 In teacher training programs, a couple of days of homework club He has a local private practice. Come find COMMUNITY here. All Welcome The Orinda Rosso come Il Cielo Returns to Orinda Community Church 10 Irwin Way, Orinda | 925.254.4906 | www.orindachurch.org Theater “No matter who you are, wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!” By Sophie Braccini Join us Sundays at 10:00 a.m. stories he invents, recording sounds on a tape recorder, then cutting and gluing the pieces to- fàA Z|Äxá XÑ|ávÉÑtÄ V{âÜv{ gether. The school does not ap- A DIFFERENT KIND OF CHURCH! prove of his experiments and the Meeting Sundays at 9am staff tries to stop him. But Men- St. Mary's College Chapel cacci does not give up. 925 376-5770 • www.stgiles-moraga.org “This is the most inspirational INCLUSIVE, THOUGHTFUL • TRADITIONAL SERVICE AND MUSIC movie we’ve shown this year,” YET FORWARD LOOKING & OPEN MINDED says Lamorinda International Film Showcase’s Efi Lubliner, “it also got the best rating of all our movies, but due to a change of management, we could not show it for more than a week. Many peo- 66 St. Stephen’s Drive, Orinda ple who wanted to see it got upset, 254-3770. www.ststephensorinda.org so we are very happy to be able to Sunday 8am & 10am. bring it back now.” Music at both services. Choir at 10am. This true story is indeed an ex- Sunday School & childcare at 10am. traordinary tale of courage and Photo provided passion, and families will enjoy St. Stephen’s Preschool he Lamorinda International The movie is based on the true seeing it together. The life lessons 254-3770 x19 TFilm Showcase is bringing story of Mirco Mencacci, who be- to be learned are worth the tears back to the Orinda Theater the mar- came blind at age 10 after an acci- you will shed. St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church velous film by Italian Director Cris- dent. Forced to go to a specialized Mencacci became one of the A Loving Community tiano Bortone, Red Like the Sky, for school away from home, he can’t most renowned sound experts in one week – share his passion for movies with the Italian movie industry. Sunday Services: 8 and 10 AM Friday, November 4, to Thursday, his father anymore. Nonetheless, For showtimes go to Active Youth Program, Sunday School, Nursery Childcare, 10 AM November 10. he finds a way to give life to the www.lfef.org . 682 Michael Lane, Lafayette, 284-7420, www.stanselms.ws

Get connected. Grow in your faith. Serve others. Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church Sunday Worship 9 & 11:00 a.m. Programs for children & youth

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ORINDA CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CENTER 24 Orinda Way (next to the Library) - 254-4212 Sunday Service and Sunday School 10 - 11 am College Prep for Grades 6-12 Informal Wednesday Meeting 7:30 - 8:30 pm Reading Room/Bookstore M - F 11 - 4; Sat 10 - 1 OPEN HOUSE www.christianscienceorinda.org FOR PROSPECTIVE PARENTS AND STUDENTS Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church, 433 Moraga Way, Orinda OCTOBER 30 & DECEMBER 4 FROM 1 TO 4PM Regular Worship Schedule 8:15 a.m. Traditions Worship 9:15 a.m. Coffee Fellowship 19 Altarinda Rd., Orinda • 925.254.7553 • www.OrindaAcademy.org 9:40 a.m. Education for all Ages 10:45 a.m. Celebrations Worship Limited Fall Openings 925-254-3422 Childcare available for ages 5 and younger Page: B8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 Not to be missed Not to be missed Not to be missed

ART Iran and the Arab Spring. Dariush Lafayette, around the reservoir and November 6, 8:30am, Lafayette Mor- THEATER Zahedi, Author, Lecturer in Iranian back. Sprinters, walkers, the “stroller aga Trail; Stanley Middle School to The Saint Mary's College William and Turkish Affairs. Thursday October brigade” and many of Lafayette’s top Olympic Blvd. and return. Come par- Keith (1838 -1911) Collection will DVC Drama presents Romeo and 27. East Bay Chapter of the World Af- four-legged residents. Race times ticipate in a Walkathon to benefit St. welcome visitors into the expanded Juliet by William Shakespeare, di- fairs Council. Lafayette Library, 3491 begin at 8am and “day of” registration Jude and join us in reaching our goal galleries of the new Museum of Art. rected by Nicole Hess-Diestler, Oct Mt. Diablo Blvd Lafayette. Registra- begins at 6:30am. Pre-registration can of $10,000.00 to help St. Jude Chil- Among never before seen recent ac- 14th - Nov 6th; Fridays, Saturdays at tion & Social: 6:30pm; Program: 7pm. be done by visiting the Lafayette dren's Research Hospital fight pediatric quisitions and newly restored paintings 8pm, Sundays at 2:30pm; Diablo Val- Council Members & EB Council of Chamber of Commerce website, cancer and other catastrophic diseases. are magnificent early views of the Co- ley College Performing Arts Center. USF: $8 Non-members: $10; Students: www.lafayettechamber.org. or You can register on line at lumbia River Valley, Pacific North- Order tickets at (925) 687-4445 or Free; for reservations: www.WorldAf- www.active.com. See article page A2. St.Jude.org/special events.com or con- west, Mt. Tamalpais and Russian www.dvcdrama.net. fairs.org or call (415) 293-4600. tact Andria at River. The Hearst Art Gallery is open Senior Helpline Services, a Lafayette [email protected]. from Wednesdays through Sundays, California Independent Film Festi- KIDS & PARENTS based non-profit agency, serves sen- 11am-4:30pm. Admission is $4 for val is presenting "Mighty Macs" at the iors with their Rides for Seniors and Moraga Homeowners Workshop; adults; free for groups, K-12th graders. Rheem Theatre thru Nov 3rd. This is a Troop 246 is hosting their 2011 Open Reassurance Phone Friends programs. Energy Savings and Rebates. Join For more information, please call (925) heart-warming true story of a small, House for perspective Boy Scouts. This year SHS is holding a fundraising Pacific Gas and Electric, and associ- 631-4379. unknown school’s improbable journey Boys in 5th grade or older and their raffle. Tickets are $25.00 each for a ated companies for an evening work- in 1972 to win the first national parents are welcome to attend our ice chance in the drawing that will be held shop to learn how a home energy “Textures, Layers and Lines” is a women’s collegiate basketball cham- cream party Wednesday, Nov. 2, 7:30- on 11/1/11. Five tickets will be drawn upgrades can help to lower utility bills, small group show featuring the works pionship. Tickets are $10 for general 8:30pm at the Scout Hut on Moraga and the lucky winners will have the protect the environment by saving en- of four artists: Dalia Alekna, pastel admission; and $8 for matinee admis- Way. Learn all about Troop 246 and choice of a $1000 gas card or $1000 in ergy and improve home comfort. artist and jewelry maker; Paula Boas, sion, students and seniors. what makes us special. Have fun meet- cash. Please help support SHS pro- Thursday, November 10, Moraga Pub- abstract painter; Linda Yoshizawa, ing our scouts, join in scout activities, grams and give yourself a shot at win- lic Library, Community Room, 1500 printmaker; and potter Martha Kean. Miramonte High School’s drama and enjoy some ice cream. Contact in- ning $1000. You may either contact St. Mary's Road, Moraga. Doors open The show uses process and imagery to department is presenting two contem- formation: Leslie Green, SHS directly at (925)284-6699 or Jen- at 6pm, event at 6:30pm. Sponsored by suggest a history or story beyond just porary dramatic plays this fall. Mar- [email protected], 247-0846. nifer Williams with BrightStar at Sustainable Moraga. a beautiful piece of art. The show is vin’s Room, by Scott McPherson, and (925)785-0734 to purchase your open through October 29. Rabbit Hole, by David Lindsay- Lamorinda Moms 14th Annual Pre- ticket(s). Saint Mary's College Guild's An- Abaire, will be performed in Novem- school Fair, Thursday, November 3, nual Harvest Luncheon and Faire The exhibit at the Orinda Library ber. Both plays focus on family 6:30-8:30pm at Oakwood Athletic Toe-tapping music, twirling dancers, will take place on Thursday, Novem- art gallery for November will feature relationships as they cope with sudden Club, 4000 Mt. Diablo Blvd. and the friendly buzz of conversation ber 10th, 10am-3pm in the Soda Cen- the following artists: Kim Wong, paint- tragedy. The productions will be at the Lafayette. Representatives from more keep the atmosphere lively at the ter. It's a great time to browse and ing; Terry Riggins, Photos; Thomas Miramonte Theater at Miramonte than 35 Lamorinda preschools will be weekly Dance Social, Wednesdays purchase true treasures at nominal Tanneyhill, Block prints. High School on 750 Moraga Way, available to discuss their programs and 12:30-2:50 pm at Lafayette Commu- prices. A Traditional Thanksgiving Orinda. Tickets will be available for answer questions. Children are wel- nity Center. The longtime event is held Menu will be served on Thursday at “Oh,Wow! Watercolors” by Moraga purchase on the MHS webstore, come! This free event is open to Lam- in the big, bright Live Oak Room. noon. $25 per person. Mail your check artist George Ehrenhaft will grace www.acalanes.k12.ca.us/miramonte. orinda Moms members and the general There’s plenty of space for a sizable to Dolores McConigle, 828 Cross- the Moraga Library’s art corner Please call the school office at (925) community. group to swirl, twirl, and socialize. The brook Cir., Moraga, CA 94556 by Nov. throughout November. Fully half of 280-3930 with any questions. Dance Social specializes in ballroom, 7. A preview of the "treasures" on Wed, Ehrenhaft’s fresh landscapes lovingly HALLOWEEN but any style of dance adds to the fun. Nov. 9, 4-7pm. Questions? Call Do- portray sites familiar to Lamorinda res- June in a Box Professional dance lessons the first lores at (925) 376-4339. idents: the trail to Valle Vista, the Dark Dreams Haunted house re- Wednesday of the month. The Lafayette Reservoir, Briones Regional turns to the Rheem Theater raising Lafayette Community Center is at 500 Willow Spring Church in Moraga Park, an EBMUD barn on watershed money for the California Independent St. Mary’s Road. A map and additional will host a fundraiser concert for an or- property. Open during library hours. Film Festival. Creepy movie sets and details are posted at: ganization called "A New Day For For details, call 376-6852. live monsters leave you shaking. Open sites.google.com/site/lafayet- Children" on Nov 11, 7pm. A New 4-6pm on Halloween with lights on teteadance. The event is $2 for mem- Day provides a safe place for children MUSIC and no monsters for curious little kids. bers of Lafayette Senior Center, and $4 ages 10 - 18 who have been rescued October 28-31, 7-11pm and 'til mid- for non-members. It’s $10 yearly to from Human Trafficking/sexual slav- Photo Michael Cook. Saint Mary's Music Recital Series. night on Halloween. $8 admission join the Center, and enjoy the complete ery in the Bay Area. Willow Spring Enjoy listening to students sing opera Saint Mary’s College Performing (sold at door), www.Hauntworld.com. range of activities. Church is located at 1689 School Street arias, perform piano sonatas and play Arts Department presents June in a See article page B9. in Moraga. For more info: (925) 631- Baroque trios and other chamber Box, a new work by nationally ac- BOOK SALE - Friends of the 1894 or go towww.wil- music on Wednesday October 26, claimed Latino playwright Octavio Lafayette Parks and Rec Haunted Orinda Library - Thurs. Nov. 3, lowspringchurch.org. 1pm. Where: Soda Center, Saint Solis. In June in a Box, an old corrido House Friday, Oct. 28th & Sunday, 10am-1pm in the Book Shop and Sort- Mary's College of California, 1928 St. comes to life, recounting the sensa- Oct. 30. ing Room (Book Shop is open until 6 Come and experience the Many Mary's Rd., Moraga. Admission: Free. tional 1934 kidnapping of June Robles, p.m.) Sale will include book ideas for Faces of Ovarian Cancer, an event child of a wealthy immigrant family Moraga Farmers’ Market Hal- holiday giving. Orinda Library, 26 focusing on one of the most commonly In the midst of a three week west from Tucson. June in a Box is a magi- loween Harvest Celebration is Sun- Orinda Way, Orinda (925) 254-1358. misdiagnosed cancers in women. Join coast tour, Seattle area Songstress cal poem to innocence, to memory, and day, October 30, 9am-1pm. Come to an engaging panel of medical experts, Carolyn Cruso makes a stop in Moraga the force that heals life's scars. Saint the Kid’s Costume Contest at 10am Revolutionizing ‘The Plate.’ A Nu- as they offer insight into the latest in- this week to play a House Concert at Mary’s Performing Arts has one of the with prizes for scariest, funniest, best trition Workshop for the Whole Fam- formation on treatment options, family the home of Anasuya Krishnaswamy, region’s outstanding theatre programs, Farmers’ Market theme, most creative, ily, Saturday November 5, 11am at the history, early detection, and explore the on Saturday, Oct 29 at 7pm. Cruso and last year won 5 regional and 6 na- and best overall costume. Children Moraga Library. This year the USDA unique needs and issues of ovarian weaves a web with her transcendent tional awards from the Kennedy Cen- decorate their own pumpkin, guess the replaced the Food Pyramid with the cancer survivors. Cancer specific nu- Celtic trance dulcimer and energetic ter/ American College Theatre weight of the giant pumpkin, and play new nutrition model ‘The Plate.’ Join trition will be discussed with an em- Americana folk songs. $10-20 sug- Festival. the Pumpkin Pitch game. The autumn Karen Boateng, Teacher and Certified phasis on holiday cooking. November gested donation. Email anu_krish- Where: LeFevre Theatre, Saint Mary's harvest features apples, grapes, toma- Nutritionist, as she takes us through the 15, 6-8pm. Lafayette Library and [email protected] to reserve and College, 1928 St. Mary's Rd., Moraga toes, flowers and more direct from Cal- fascinating new research in nutrition in Learning Center - Art and Science for directions. www.carolyncruso.com. When: Nov. 10, 11, 12, & 18 at 8pm. ifornia growers and producers. (800) a kid-friendly way. Tips on how to get Room. No charge, refreshments and Sunday, Nov 20 at 2pm. Meet Octavio 806-3276 or CAFarmersMkts.com. picky kids to eat more whole grains, healthy snacks will be served. To reg- A Grand Night of Opera – classic Solis at 7pm Friday, Nov. 11 before the fruits & veggies, healthy organic food ister, please call (925) 677-5041. Co- music from the operatic repertoire, show. Admission: General: $15, Sen- Calling all ghosts, witches & goblins. samples and recipe ideas, school lunch sponsored by Clocks Etc, Oakwood old and new – in concert at Hertz Hall iors and Non-SMC Students: $12. Trick or Treat on Halloween, Mon- ideas, and more. Athletic Club and Diablo Valley On- on the UC Berkeley campus, on Satur- Tickets available by phone ((925) 631- day, October 31, 3-5pm at Moraga's cology. day, November 12, 8pm. The program 4670) or at the door. Rheem Center on the corner of Rheem Lafayette Juniors'Annual Rum- will include selections from Carmen, Blvd. and Moraga Rd. Costumed chil- mage Sale, Saturday, November 5, CLUBS Turandot, Rigoletto, La Traviata, Der Red Carpet World Premiere of dren must be accompanied by an adult. 7am-1pm at Lafayette-Orinda Presby- Rosenkavalier, Il Trovatore as well as "Hercules Saves Christmas," No- terian Church. Find great deals on Sons In Retirement Lamorinda other operatic surprises. Tickets are vember 17 at the Orinda Theatre. Red Contra Costa Wind Symphony, with household items, clothing, decor, baby Branch 171 meets the first Wednes- $20 for general admission and may be Carpet arrivals start at 6:30pm. Movie Maestro Duane Carroll, will conduct and kids' clothes, and loads of toys and day monthly at Holy Trinity Culture purchased at the door or in advance at and Q & A at 7pm. Celebrities sched- a Halloween-themed concert for gear for the whole family! Proceeds Center 1700 School St. Moraga. Social (510) 642-3880. For more information uled to attend include Hercules Shorty ghosts, goblins, and ghouls of all ages, benefit local charities. For more infor- hour 11 am, lunch 12 pm. On Novem- go to the U.C. Alumni Chorus website: Rossi (Pit Boss), Mackenzie Phillips including selections from popular mation, visit lafayettejuniors.org. ber 2, the after-lunch speaker will be http://www.ucac.net. (One Day at a Time), Richard Van movies and “spooktacular” surprises. Dick Callahan, a popular host and Vleet (All My Children), Kathy Garver 3pm, Oct. 29. Lesher Center for the The Gardens at Heather Farm speaker at athletic conferences and SMC Jazz Band: Thursday Novem- (Family Affair), Ashley Brooks (Pit Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Adult Education program: Introduc- events. He has been the voice of bas- ber 17 at 8pm and Friday, November Boss), Danny Arroyo (Lethal Tickets $6-$22. Children age 12 and tion to Bird Songs and Sounds, Satur- ketball at Saint Mary's College, the 18 at 5pm. Up-tempo numbers, tender Weapon), Maggie VandenBerghe under in costume admitted free. (925) day, November 5, 9-11am. This fun Golden State Warriors, the Oakland ballads, blues, swing and salsa - they (Aliens in the Attic), and Anthony 943-7469, www.lesherartscenter.org., class for all ages will introduce you to Athletics and the University of Califor- all create the energy of the jazz band Robinson (Hercules Saves Christmas). www.CCWindSymphony.org. bird songs and calls to help you iden- nia Golden Bears. For membership in- concert experience. John Maltester, re- Don’t miss this Hollywood event in tify a variety of our wild friends. $20 formation, call Larry at (925) cently inducted into the California Al- Orinda! Trailer at: Halloween Skit in Moraga GHF Members/$25 non-members. 631-9528. liance for Jazz Hall of Fame, directs http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leq The folks at 12 Lynwood Drive (just Call (925) 947-1678 or www.garden- the ensemble. Where: Soda Center, dNPmfYdU, Articles: off of Corliss) in Moraga will be per- shf.org to register. The Montelindo Garden Club Saint Mary's College, 1928 St. Mary's http://movies.broadwayworld.com/ar- forming their annual Halloween skit, Speaker for November, 2011: On Fri- Rd., Moraga. Admission: $5 SMC ticle/Animal-Planet-Movie-Hercules- now 15 years running, on October Saturday, November 5, at 7pm, day, November 18, Ria Sim, who is the Community, $10 General Admission, Saves-Christmas-to-Premiere-201110 31st. The theme for this year is Terrors Oikocredit USA Executive Director founder of Twigs Studio and owner of $8 Seniors and non-SMC Students. 20. bunch of photos available. in the Twighlight. Stop by to get some Terry Provance will present Oikocre- Ria Sim Designs in Danville, will candy and enjoy the brief show, which dit’s model of economic empower- speak on planning events that coordi- Cellist Eric Sung, heard by millions LECTURE & LITERATURE will be repeated regularly between ment for the world’s poor through nate floral decorations which are in movie theaters around the world, 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. socially responsible investing at Our planned down to the last leaf giving fo- joins the Contra Costa Chamber Or- SMC's Distinguished Speaker Series Savior’s Lutheran Church, 1035 Carol cused attention to each project from chestra in a performance of presents an internationally-recognized OTHER Lane, Lafayette. Provance’s presenta- food, table linens and to party favors. Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo authority on brain-compatible teaching tion will include personal stories from The lecture is at 10:30am. A plant sale Theme. If you’ve seen Pirates of the strategies, Dr. Marcia Tate, Saturday, CCSWA is offering a free home the beneficiaries of Oikocredit’s in- and refreshments are at 9am. The event Caribbean, King Kong, or Inside Man, October 29, 8:30am-1pm. Soda Activ- composting workshop on October 29, vestments and a discussion of social is free and the public is cordially in- you’ve already heard the sound of his ity Center, Saint Mary’s College; $60 1-2:30pm, at impact investing as a means to fight vited to attend. The event is held at the rare 200-year-old cello. Also on the - continental breakfast and lunch in- Mt. Diablo Nursery, 3295 Mt. Diablo poverty. Open to all. Attendees are Orinda Community Church, 10 Irwin program: prime selections from Bizet’s cluded. Open to the public. For infor- Blvd. in Lafayatte. Contact CCSWA at asked to bring a bottle of wine and/or Way, Orinda. voluptuous Carmen, including the un- mation and registration: Lydia Wiley, (925) 906-1801 x109. small dish to share with the commu- forgettable classic, “Les Toreadors.” (925) 631-8124 or lwiley@stmarys- nity. For more information please call Sunday, 11/20, 2pm Lesher Center for ca.edu. Register online at: 19th Annual Lafayette Reservoir (925) 283-3722 or visit www.oslc.net. Please submit: the Arts, Walnut Creek, Tickets: $10 - www.stmarys-ca.edu/saturdaysemi- Run, October 30. Over 2,500 partici- $30 at the door, by phone ((925) 943- nars. pants compete in a 10K, 5K or 2 mile Special Event for St. Jude Chil- calendar@ SHOW), or online at www.Lesher- race through the heart of downtown dren's Research Hospital on Sunday lamorindaweekly.com ArtsCenter.org. Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B9 Dark Dreams: Nightmare at Rheem Theatre By Cathy Dausman ’m a haunt. It’s totally dark in Ichicken—I here – I’m already on admit it. I flinch guard, and slightly disori- at thunder storms, ented. Crouching like Igor, close my eyes I take a tentative step for- during scary ward. Spooky music and movies. It took me cobwebs assault my ears years to look the and skin. Nervous laughter Wicked Witch of ensues from the group—or the West in the eye, is it only a figment of my and just hearing the frightened mind? Haunted music to The Exorcist houses equate with sensory over- gave me the heebie jee- load, or in the case of sight—under- bies. So what was I turned load – it’s still dark in here! Ghoulish doing, voluntarily going to to produc- living dead inhabit the maze, going inspect The New Rheem The- about their daily (perhaps I should say ing haunts for Photos Andy Scheck atre haunted house? non-profit “nightly”) chores. Up ahead is a rat- “We’ll be right behind tling door—don’t make me turn the bia-inducing experience. Dark p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and is recom- fundraising. Dreams is rated 9 out of 10 skulls on mended for ages 10 and up. Admis- you,” said writer Cathy Tyson. Starting in mid- corner! More nervous laughter and And she meant it – yours truly we’ve come around the bend. Better the Haunted World website sion is $8, and proceeds benefit September, the (http://tinyurl.com/3ngjk8m). “You’ll CAIFF. A special “lights on, no mon- had to go first. Gulp! A little crew put over that than going off the deep end, background first, to delay the in- which you might do going through have to sleep with a light on,” says sters” session for younger children, 100 hours of Foy. and chickens, will be held from 4:00 evitable: Dark Dreams is a work into build- this alone. Without giving too much Rheem Theatre fundraiser bene- away I can say that even escaping The haunting continues October p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Halloween –I’m ing the set, and 28 through Halloween evening, 7:00 so there. fitting the California International use a dozen live from the maze is a fully claustropho- Film Festival (CAIFF). The monsters. “This creepy maze is a “behind the is not your screens” look at all things dark and mother’s haunt,” twisted. It is the work of three ' ( cautions Foy. Scary women: Joanne Foy, vice president of or not, the set is profes- CAIFF, Maevis Padgett, and Julie sional theater quality, and Christensen, who is the lead designer ) fully fireproof. It’s safety first, says and the one whom Foy labels “most Foy, who arrives to greet Lamorinda twisted.” Weekly staff wearing a green reflec- Foy used to decorate her home tive vest.  , ,/9 and garage for her children’s Hal- After a nudge from behind, I was loween. When they outgrew that, she ready to sell my soul and enter the /:;;<:;; As Seen in Lamorinda...

Free! Free!    

Photo Cathy Tyson

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Terzetto presents: RISTORANTE Saturday AMOROMA October 29th 5:30 to 8:30 pm Featuring Angelica Samame Painter

Authentic Italian Cuisine from the city of Rome Live JAZZ every Saturday night Premium cocktails made with freshly squeezed juices A great selection of Italian and California cellar wines Wine tasting every Thursday 5:30 to 7:30 Lunch & Dinner Brunch on Saturday and Sunday 7 days a week Take-out and catering services available Breakfast Opening hours: Friday – Sunday open at 9AM Daily 11:00AM until 10:00PM Brunch 1419 Moraga Way, amoroma1.com Saturday & Sunday from 9-3 Moraga Shopping Center 925-376-3832 360 PARK STREET, MORAGA 2 Theatre Square, Orinda www.terzettocuisine.com (925)377-ROMA(7662) www.table24orinda.com Mon: 7am - 2pm; Tues-Sun: 7am - 8:30pm 925-254-0124

GiardinoRistorante Italiano Shelbys (925) 283-3869 Restaurant • Lunch & Dinner Open 7 nights a week •• Theatre Square, Orinda •• • Take out welcome 5 - 9 pm 925-254-9687 925.376.1740 10% Discount with this Ad (can not combined with other offers) www.chefchaorestaurant.com Open Daily: Lunch - Dinner, Brunch on Sat & Sun To go orders & catering available www.shelbyseatbetter.com 343 Rheem Blvd • Moraga 3400 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette

GeppettoÊs of Orinda • Breakfast • Lunch • Breakfast • Lunch • Breakfast • • Breakfast • Lunch • Espresso • Coffee Beans • Desserts • Sandwiches 1018 Oak Hill Road • Soups • Salads Lafayette SIAM ORCHID (925) 283-2397 Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-5pm, Sat 7am-3:00pm Thai Restaurant Buy one coffee or espresso Open 5 AM - 2:30 PM 87 Orinda Way Breakfast • Lunch • Seven Days a Week and get one free Now accepting credit cards Good through November 9th 253-9894 • Breakfast • Lunch • Breakfast • Lunch • Breakfast • Authentic Cuisine of Thailand Family owned 3 generations of Thai cooking experience SZECHWAN All sauces made fresh MANDARIN Full Bar First and Only Persian LUNCH / DINNER Lunch: Monday - Friday 11:00 –2:00 ORDERS TO GO Dinner: Monday - Sunday 4:30 – 9:00 Cuisine in Lafayette! 10% Discount (925) 253-1975 10% off meals SZECHWAN on Take-Out Orders (drinks not included) (Lunch Special Excluded) www.siamorchidorinda.com RESTAURANT Tues.-Thurs. 11:30am - 9:30pm (925) 283-3007 Fri.-Sat. 11:30am-10pm 23 F Orinda Way, Orinda 3576 MT.Diablo Blvd. Lafayette CHINESE CUISINE Sun. 4:00-9:30pm Closed Mondays 79 Orinda Way, Orinda Tel. 925-254-2020

We’re serving up a great combination of Mexican classics. Open 7 Days for Lunch & Dinner American The Best Place for Families Terzetto Cuisine, 1419 Moraga Way, Moraga 376-3832 and Friends to Meet and Eat! Breakfast/Brunch

3339 Mt Diablo Blvd Reservations: (925) 283-2345 Geppetto’s of Orinda, 87 Orinda Way, Orinda 253-9894 Lafayette, CA 94556 www.elcharro1947.com Millie’s Kitchen, 1018 Oak Hill Rd #A, Lafayette 283-2397 Shelby’s, 2 Theatre Sq, Orinda 254-9687 Table 24, Theatre Sq, Orinda 254-0124 Terzetto Cuisine, 1419 Moraga Way, Moraga 376-3832 Café Geppetto’s of Orinda, 87 Orinda Way, Orinda 253-9894 ORA California Cuisine IST NTE R Shelby’s, 2 Theatre Sq, Orinda 254-9687 Vino Restaurant, 3531 Plaza Way, Lafayette 284-1330 Chinese T AP OD Chef Chao Restaurant, 343 Rheem Blvd, Moraga 376-1740 AS • SEAFO Szechwan Chinese Restaurant, 79 Orinda Way, Orinda 254-2020 Coffee Shop

Pasta with fresh tomatoes & basil $12 Millie’s Kitchen, 1018 Oak Hill Rd #A, Lafayette 283-2397 Linguini with prawns, artichokes & basil $15 Comfort Food Roasted chicken parmigana $ 14 Table 24, Theatre Sq, Orinda 254-0124 Niman flat iron steak & potato gratin $17 Italian Roasted scallops in Spanish chorizo sauce $16 Fresh seafood cioppino $18 Giardino, 3406 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette 283-3869 Roasted wild salmon with potato gratin $15 Ristorante Amoroma, 360 Park Street Moraga 377-7662 Mexican 3531 Plaza Way, Lafayette (near the Lafayette theatre) El Charro Mexican Dining, 3339 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette 283-2345 Reservations recommended Persian (925) 284-1330 Roya's Garlic Garden, 3576 Mt Diablo Blvd, Lafayette 283-3007 Thai Food low in fat…..since 1963 Siam Orchid, 23 Orinda Way # F, Orinda 253-1975 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B11 Oktoberfest with the Fabulous Friars By Susie Iventosch CARPET CLEANING LAMORINDA'S FAVORITE FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS FOR OVER 36 YEARS

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Fabulous Friars’ Oktoberfest Sauerbraten

St. Stephen’s Oktoberfest tent Photo provided ive short years ago, Father off for the choir, not to mention a I understand, there are makeshift FLarry Hunter came to town, feast in honor of St. Stephen, him- tents in the woods not far from and it wasn’t long before the Fab- self, and a donated five-course town, hosted by any number of or- ulous Friars of St. Stephen’s Epis- dinner for 50, awarded to the high- ganizations, all pouring mug after copal Church in Orinda first est silent auction bidder. As an mug of locally crafted beer and gathered to don their chef hats and honorary “Friar” and sous chef, serving up typical fare, such as take to the kitchen. And, so began Father Larry gets his fair share of roast chicken, sausages and Sau- the “Friars’” mission of bringing time and camaraderie in the erbraten with potato pancakes. St. good food, along with good cheer kitchen, too. Stephen’s event is set up in a sim- Fabulous Friars’ Sauerbraten Photo Susie Iventosch and goodwill, to the community! Oktoberfest, which took place ilar fashion in a great, big, giant (Serves 5-6) “Father Larry came along and at the church on October 14, tent with lots of good beer, good INGREDIENTS said that food is an important part boasted an enticing menu of Sau- friends, and good cheer, all sup- 1 teaspoon salt of fellowship and outreach,” said erbraten and gravy, red cabbage, porting many good causes. Be- 1 teaspoon ground ginger Ned Trippe, a St. Stephen’s con- grilled bratwurst and sauerkraut tween the dinner, drinks and silent 2 pounds beef tri tip gregant and one of the original casserole, potato latkes with sour auction, the event raised some 1/3 cup water Fabulous Friars. “He also knew cream and applesauce, German $50,000, all going to support a 1/3 cup cider vinegar that we had a number of aspiring brown bread and green salad with host of charities and organizations. 1 cup red wine recreational chefs in the congrega- balsamic dressing. This was after Despite my half German her- 1 medium brown onion, peeled and sliced thick tion, so four of us—all with differ- a spread of appetizers, but before itage, I’d never made Sauerbraten, 2 tablespoons sugar ent cooking styles and interests, an assortment of Robin Bailey’s so I asked Ned Trippe for the Fri- 1 tablespoon mixed pickling spice came together to form the Fabu- homemade cakes, strudels and ars’ recipe, which he kindly sent 1/2 teaspoon whole peppercorns lous Friars.” tortes! … for 175 people! With a little as- 1-2 whole cloves Nowadays, the group consists Naturally, being Oktoberfest, sist from my calculator, I cut the 1 bay leaf of six men, all devoted cooking there were a variety of Oktoberfest recipe down for a family of five or 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil enthusiasts, who put on six or beers, Trumer Pils on tap, and six. Ned’s recipe was absolutely 1 gingersnap, crushed (for the gravy) seven large events each year. even red and white wine for those delectable and the aroma while it DIRECTIONS These gatherings range from Ok- who prefer to sip their grog from was cooking made the whole Combine salt and ginger; rub into tri tip. Place meat in deep bowl or toberfest and Mardi Gras to the the vine. house smell edible! Many thanks non-conductive roasting pan. Bishop’s luncheon, the Preschool Now, I’ve never been to Okto- to Ned for sharing this wonderful In large pot, combine water, red wine, cider vinegar, onion, sugar, Family barbecue and the fall kick- berfest in Munich, but from what dish with all of us! pickling spice, peppercorns, cloves and bay leaf. Bring to a boil. Pour over roast; turn to coat, layer onions between pieces. Cover and re- frigerate for 2 - 3 days, turning twice a day. Remove roast, reserving marinade; pat roast dry. On a hot grill, brown roast on all sides in oil. (For smaller quantities you can use a Dutch oven.) Strain marinade, reserving half of the onions and seasonings. Pour 1/3 to 1/2 of marinade and reserved onions and seasonings over roast (cover and refrigerate remaining marinade). Bring to a boil. Re- duce heat; cover and simmer for 3 hours or until meat is tender. Strain cooking liquid, discarding the onions and seasonings. Pour liq- uid into a large pot; bring to a rolling boil. Crush gingersnaps in processor and gradually add to marinade; simmer until gravy is thick- ened, adding gingersnaps as needed to thicken. If necessary, add re- served marinade. (Be careful not to add too much gingersnaps as gravy becomes too thick.) Slice roast and serve with gravy. *Serve Sauerbraten with red cabbage and bratwurst casserole, home- made sauerkraut, and potato latkes with sour cream and applesauce garnish.

Susie Iventosch is the author of Tax Bites and Tasty Morsels, which can be found at Across the Way in Moraga, www.amazon.com, and www.taxbites.net. Susie can be reached at [email protected]. These recipe is available on our web site www.lamorindaweekly.com The Fabulous Friars at Oktoberfest: From left, Mike Yount, Scott Rhoades, Jim Breedlove, Ned Trippe, If you would like to share your favorite recipe with Susie please contact her by Peter Margen, Mike Kerr Photo provided email or call our office at 925-377-0977. Lynn’s Top Five What will YOU do if Your Favorite Tax Benefits Disappear? By Lynn Ballou, CFP® verywhere you turn you hear buy a home and take out a mortgage benefits are due to expire. Addi- the most important ratio to think in the future, but also finding a way Eabout major tax reform com- if you can’t afford the payments in tionally, there’s likely to be another about in your planning? It’s how to pay down debt faster than you ing our way. And by reform, may full without any tax breaks! surtax on most investment gener- much left after your assumptions thought while bolstering savings I clarify by saying “increases?” 2) Repeat after me: My Gross ated income to pay for what’s being for investment rate of return, infla- and building more fun into your fu- Let’s talk about five likely candi- Pay is NOT my TRUE Income! termed as “Obama Care” --- a na- tion and taxation. If that net number ture. I applaud you on this journey! dates and what you should be doing Your take home pay is reduced tional health care initiative. It’s is higher than 1 – 3%, I strongly now to be prepared. from your gross pay by all sorts of time to be sure you can afford these recommend you go back to the 1) Deduction for Interest on things: federal and state taxes, extra tax hits and that your portfolio drawing board! Like a good scout, Your Home Mortgage: Already FICA, SDI, benefit plan payments, is properly positioned for these be prepared! limited to $1,100,000 (an oversim- deferred retirement plans, etc. major changes. On the one hand, 5) National Sales Tax --- a U.S. plified statement --- check with Using a tax program such as Turbo don’t throw away great investments VAT: Another possibility from your tax advisor for clarification), Tax or meeting with your tax advi- just because they’ll be taxed at Washington. Your Congressmen we hear increasing rhetoric from sor and CFP®, figure out what your higher rates --- so will everything and women are leaving no stone un- Washington D.C. about severely true annual take home pay is. Com- else. But do be prepared and use turned in finding ways to raise rev- limiting this write off now, and pare that to your annual after tax this as an opportunity to rethink enue. As you do your long-range phasing it out completely in years to spending. Oh, and just to be safe, your holdings before the stampede planning, factor into your budget come. Not a big deal to US taxpay- assume that you’ll take home 5% that’s sure to happen next year the possibility of a national sales tax Lynn Ballou is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL ers living in less expense geogra- less because Congress is talking when everyone else realizes that in- of 3 – 5%, the range. It could hap- PLANNER™ professional and co-owner of phy, but to those of us in the Bay about increasing income taxes vestment tax changes are coming up pen, if not across the board, on cer- Ballou Plum Wealth Advisors, LLC, a Area, a potential financial disaster. across the board. Learn to live soon, too. tain products. Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firm What can you do now? First, refi- within this new amount ---in the 4) Rethink your Long-Range Fi- What to do? Be calm, don’t in Lafayette. Lynn is also a Registered nance your home, if you can, to the meantime invest the difference! nancial Planning Calculations: panic, but do not delay refocusing Principal and Branch Manager with LPL lowest possible rate you can get 3) Investment Income will be Whether you do this yourself, or your financial viewpoint. Where Financial (LPL). The opinions voiced in this with no fees, no points. Second, be Taxed at Higher Rates in 2013: work with a CFP®, it’s time to dust appropriate embark upon defensive material are for general information only sure you can afford your payments Right now most taxpayers pay a off your plan and build in higher tax planning tactics to protect your life and not intended to provide specific advice if there are no tax deductions. For very preferential rate on capital rates into your future planning. journey and that of your family or recommendation for any individual. Financial Planning offered through Ballou some, this means paying down the gains and investment income such This is the time to see if there are from overly optimistic planning. Plum Wealth Advisors, A Registered mortgage, for others it might mean as qualifying dividends. These are potential problems on your finan- You may find that this type of long- Investment Advisor. Securities offered stretching out the mortgage pay part of what’s called the “Bush Tax cial planning horizon, and make range vision results in you living through LPL Financial, member back terms. Going forward: don’t Cuts.” At the end of 2012, these mid-course adjustments. What’s not only with your means now and FINRA/SIPC. Page: B12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 20% OFF LASER TREATMENT verynicepools.com expires 11-30-11 very 925-283-5180 nice Are Your Toe Nails Thickened, Yellow, pools Painful Or Ugly? TIME TO GET LASER TREATMENT!! 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CALL TODAY (925) 954-8270 From Hollywood Glitter to Downtown Lafayette Emmy-nominated hairstylist comes to Lamorinda By Sophie Braccini graduation to get an apprenticeship made sense for the couple to live tificates at each PTA meeting.” Wise- with a talented professional in Bev- there. “But every time we came to man is discovering what it means to erly Hills; that’s where she met and Lafayette to spend time with be part of a community and already worked with her first celebrity, Kelly Michael’s family, the children never wants to give back, “I never had a Preston. wanted to leave and asked why we community in Los Angeles, I am so Her website, CarolineWiseman.net, couldn’t live here, so we finally de- happy to discover that here.” has pictures of all the celebrities she cided to take the plunge.” Reach Caroline Wiseman at (818) worked with. The Emmy nomination The Wisemans moved to 442-1843. Shelby Sexton Salon is lo- came from a full year of doing the Lafayette a month ago and Caroline cated at 33 La Fiesta Square in hair of Leah Remini, co-hostess of rented a station at Shelby Sexton Lafayette (in the corner, between Red The Talk on CBS (also known for her Salon. “I’m starting to build my clien- Wagon and Teacake Bake Shop.) role in The King of Queens). “Every tele through word of mouth,” she ex- morning she would show up with her plains, “my family is very loud and Lamorinda Weekly business articles are intended to inform the community about local business activities, not to hair wet and no make-up,” recounts talks about me everywhere, and I’m endorse a particular company, product or service. Wiseman, “I challenged myself to do also starting to auction $100 gift cer- something different for her every day.” Wiseman believes that hair is the first element to express a person- business briefs ality, “Hair and make-up can really change the mood of someone,” she believes, “but it has to be in accor- Gebhardt Group Completes Office Relocation dance with each individual personal- 3470 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Suite A210, Lafayette ity and lifestyle.” The Emmy (925) 283-9150, www.gebhardtgroupinc.com Caroline Wiseman curling a client at Shelby Sexton’s in Lafayette nomination validated her work, since Gebhardt Group, Inc., an independent wealth management firm in Lafayette, Photo Sophie Braccini it arises from a vote from hairstyling announced its office relocation and expansion to Corporate Terrace in down- town Lafayette. Gebhardt Group, Inc. supports sustainable building practices. hen you see her, it’s easy to nity. professionals. But Wiseman felt it As Gebhardt Group, Inc. continues to grow, the new space also supports future believe that Caroline Wise- Wiseman started her hairstyling was time for a change. W expansion plans. “We are excited about our business development opportu- man was an actress as well as a hair- career in Santa Monica. She was “I had many fun and stimulating nities in the next few years. We have a growing client base and ultimately dresser and makeup artist in raised in New Orleans and knew she professional years in Los Angeles,” need to hire additional advisors to meet demand. Markets continue to be in says Wiseman, “but after my daugh- Hollywood. The pretty mother of two wanted to follow an artistic path. She turmoil and families need more help than ever and we want to be prepared to ters were born my perspective Burton Valley School students comes thought of architecture or the graphic do so,” said James Gebhardt who founded the firm in 2005. He attributes the changed, I was getting tired of con- out very sunny-looking, charming arts, but while in Santa Monica City growth of his company to the holistic approach to the financial process that stantly having to reinvent myself, of and real. Maybe it is that genuineness College she heard of a cosmetology defines the practice. that drove her and her family to relo- school where she could get a hairstyl- the harsh competition, the expensive cate to a more down to earth location ist license. She registered without and stressful lifestyle. We were ready Staci Ericson Campaigns for the Most Polite Halloween Ever – Lafayette. Here, far from the telling her family. “I had been cutting to simplify our lives and I want to be www.gollygee-pers.com celebrity hair that earned her an hair since I was 12 and made some more of a mother and a wife.” The Lafayette mom who created Emmy nomination in 2010, she wants money with it in high school, but I Wiseman’s husband, Michael, is the card game Golly Gee-pers!, a to establish herself as a creative and was seeing it more as a hobby than a a former Burton Valley student. He game that encourages kids to use productive member of the commu- job,” she says. She was lucky after became an actor in Hollywood, so it good table manners, wants this Halloween to be the most polite ever. “Imagine it’s Halloween night and the door bell rings. You grab the candy bowl and open the door. A group of trick-or-treaters dressed as witches, goblins and rock stars sing out, “Trick-or- treat?” Each one selects a piece of candy, the usual routine, and then something different happens. The trick-or-treater hands you a folded piece of paper. It’s a thank you note!” says Ericson. To support From left: Jessica Darfler, Ashleigh her campaign for a very polite Hal- Ericson and Siena DeCarlo loween, Ericson has posted free Photo provided thank you notes on her website that can be downloaded and printed.

Collector's Choice Antiques 3574 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette Collector’s Choice invites you to an afternoon tea, finger sandwiches, and vin- tage fashion show on Saturday, November 12th from 2-4:00 p.m. RSVP by No- vember 1st, (925) 299-9400. Cost: $20 per person. All proceeds benefit the Lafayette Library and Learning Center. News from the three Chambers of Commerce Lafayette • Lafayette Chamber of Commerce raises money to get the Christmas lights back this season. In order to make necessary reductions in the city's budget, the City Council approved the elimination of funding for the lights this year. “We could be without our lights if we don't act now,” says Lafayette Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jay Lifson. “We are inviting everyone to join the downtown businesses and make a donation to help keep the city bright. We need to raise about $8,000 to keep the lights on and maintained.” Simply send a check to the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce – 100 Lafayette Circle #103, Lafayette, CA 94549 – for any amount and the Chamber will work with the City to keep the lights on. • 19th Annual Reservoir Run on Sunday, October 30, 6:30-10 a.m. For more information go to lafayettechamber.org/events/reservoir-run. Registration table opens at 6:30 a.m. (see article page A2) Moraga This year's 23rd Annual Hospice Moraga Tree of Lights will be held on No- vember 13th at 5:30 p.m. at the Moraga Commons Park. The Chamber is look- ing for Moraga businesses to be event sponsors and be featured in the Hospice of the East Bay's program and newsletter. Orinda Chamber Ribbon-Cutting Event at the Christian Science Reading Room & Bookstore on Wednesday November 16th starting at 3:00 p.m., 24 Orinda Way (next to Library). The Christian Science Reading Room & Bookstore, recently relocated to the Christian Science Church just down from Orinda City Hall offices.

If you have a business brief to share, please contact Sophie Braccini at [email protected] Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: C1 U.S. Baseball AcadAcademyemy TThehe nanatitionn’’s larrggest training progrrogram is makinmaking 150 stops natinationwide,nwide, including one in your area. SeSessions start soon. SSixix weekweeks of hitting, pitching, caattcher, and fielding//baserunning lessons for as little as $99. Campolindo Dominates in EarlyEa l RegistrationR iitt tit Discounts Di t Don’t falll behind the competition! the ‘Battle of the Unbeatens’ Sessions for Grades 1-12 SpaceSpace is limited.limited. PPhone (866) 622-4487622-4487 or visit By Alex Kozela www.USBaseballAcademy.comwwwwwwww USU USBasSBaBaassesebbalallAAcAcaadd ememy cocomm

Reiner Ebarle (21) had key touchdowns for the Cougars. Photo Tod Fierner ampolindo turned the battle of local unbeatens into move. He had to zip a lot of balls in and hit seams, which Cone of the most lopsided results of the season, blow- is a tough thing for a high school quarterback to do.” ing out Miramonte with a 42-6 home victory. “His play was excellent, his receivers did a fantastic After finishing the last two seasons with losing records job,” said Miramonte's Schram. “I thought we had great and consecutive losses to Miramonte, the Cougars (8-0, coverage on a couple of inside slants, and they still made 4-0) reversed the trend in emphatic fashion and now stand the plays.” alone in first place in the Diablo Foothill Athletic League The Matadors (7-1, 3-1) were able to get on the board with just two games left. at the beginning of the fourth quarter thanks to a touch- Cougars junior quarterback Brett Stephens led the down by junior wide receiver Zati Williams, but it was too team with 273 yards and four touchdowns, yet acknowl- little, too late on a frustrating evening. Mats’ senior quar- edged that the performance was a total team effort. terback Ross Anderson was held to 5-of-18 passing for 59 “There was a ton of hard work by everybody,” yards, one touchdown and four interceptions, while run- #104 Stephens said. “The linemen were unbelievable, the re- ning for 72 yards on 14 carries. ceivers were unbelievable, the defense was unbelievable.” Campolindo will travel to Alhambra on October 28. After a scoreless first quarter, the Cougars’ high-pow- Miramonte will work to regroup this week before ered offense took control of the game in the second, when hosting Dublin on November 4. The Gaels’ head coach, senior running back Reiner Ebarle scored on a 19-yard John Wade, is in his first year with Dublin after previously run that was sandwiched in between two touchdowns by coaching Miramonte. senior wide receiver Griffin Piatt. “The best thing for us is we get the bye week now to “When [Piatt] starts striding with those large strides try and get healthy,” said Schram, acknowledging that of his and those large arms, everyone gets excited early,” playing against Wade will get the team focused. said Campolindo head coach Kevin Macy. “You could “You could just see the excitement on their faces,” hear the crowd tonight. Boy, they were excited when the said Macy. “If you know this community, what this rivalry ball even got near him.” means to the kids and their families, it just runs all year Piatt also played stellar defense, recording two first long, and for them to have something like this is a lifetime half interceptions. treasure for them.” “Last year we played physical with Miramonte but they just tore us up in the air,” Macy said of Piatt’s defense. “It’s just comforting to have that kid back there in our sec- ondary.” Miramonte head coach Jack Schram said the second quarter was the turning point in the game. “We were doing fine through the first quarter, but once they got on a roll, got the energy behind them, [it was over,]” said Schram. “I look at it as the team with the most energy is going to win, and they had a lot more energy than us.” The third quarter saw more of the same from Cam- polindo, as they extended their lead to 42-0 with touch- downs from senior wide receiver Karl Thornton, Ebarle, and senior tight end Vince Graziano. Graziano scored on a 62-yard pass from Stephens. “He’s so pure, he’s so precise with what he does, and he’s still growing,” said Macy, referring to Stephens. “And our receivers are growing with him. It’s nice to see that Junior quarterback Brett Stephens notched 273 yards complete package of how many different receivers he can and four touchdowns in the win. Photo Tod Fierner

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Dexter Honens II REAL ESTATE BROKER Office: (925) 253-2148 Cell: (510) 918-8911 ASSOCIATES Email: [email protected] REAL ESTATE Serving clients, friends and family in your neighborhood since 1989. This is not a loan commitment, nor is it a guarantee of any kind. This comparison is based solely on estimated figures and information available at the time of production. Interest rate is subject to borrower and property qualifying. Campo fans staged a "red-out" in the bleachers. Photo Tod Fierner Stonecastle Land and Home Financial, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Lender. Page: C2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS Campolindo Volleyball Stays Perfect By Brandon Duran ll three of the Lamorinda high way Siegmann wanted as Cam- ern California. We’re happy to have Aschool girls’ volleyball teams polindo took a 6-0 lead. Campolindo her,” he said. entered the 2011 season hoping to took advantage of the Dons’ slow The Lady Mats of Miramonte replicate the success of last year’s start. Seniors Tyanna Roy, Megan also got a win last Tuesday against Campolindo team. The Cougars won Dalziel and Alex Ligouri, worked to Dublin. The Mats swept the Gaels to the state title in the 2010 season. As rally the Dons but Campolindo was improve to 13-3 on the year and 6-1 playoffs approach, competition in the able to take the first game by a score in high school. Head coach Shannon Diablo Foothill Athletic high school of 25-11. Ross said the reason the Mats have (DAFL) has begun to heat up. The second set was dominated by been so successful is because of lead- Campolindo (13-7, 8-0) and Mi- Campolindo junior Annie Shurtz, ership. “We have terrific senior lead- ramonte (12-2, 6-1) have been look- who scored almost half of the points ership; all seven seniors were ing to continue their stellar play this for Campo with strong serves and committed this season to work really season while Acalanes (6-11, 2-5) has deadly kills. Campo won 25-17. hard and to push the rest of the team tried to improve over the last few Acalanes picked up intensity in to work as hard as they could.” weeks in order to secure a spot in the the third set and made fewer errors, Sarah Vaccaro, a four-year varsity postseason. The Dons traveled to but still could not fend off the starter, and outside hitter Audrey Bre- Campolindo on Tuesday, October 18 Cougars, falling 25-18. itwieser have been instrumental to the to try to steal a big win on the road Both coaches used the final set to Mats success. and better their high school record. get their younger talent some experi- Miramonte is .500 versus their Before the game, Acalanes head ence. fellow Lamorinda schools, losing to coach Steve Siegmann talked about After the game Campolindo head Campo, and beating Acalanes once what a win against the Cougars would coach Scott Bishop commented that this year. However, the Mats face do for his team. “It would be huge consistency was key in the Cougars both schools once more in the final mentally for our club. Anytime win. He said that Schurtz has been in- two matches of the season, at Acalanes plays Campo in a sport it’s strumental. “I knew this was going to Acalanes on November 1 and at a big deal for the players so it would be a break out year for her, and she’s home against Campolindo on No- be a good push for us.” handling the role very well. She’s one vember 5. Tyanna Roy (5) and Annie Shurtz (14) Photo Doug Kohen The first set didn’t go quite the of the most physical players in North-

Lamorinda Prep Water Polo By Marissa Harnett

Photos Doug Kohen ust as quickly as the league water In the girls’ match-up, the Lady focus. They were active and contin- cluded junior Jack Fellner (four side of the pool,” said head coach Jpolo season got underway a Cougars came out clawing, scoring ued to put pressure on the Miramonte goals), senior Kevin Yee (three goals), Miles Price. month ago, it comes to a close today, more than half of their points in the defense. My team was confident in and sophomore Tyler Kirchberg “Every year you lose key players. October 26, with the last game of the first seven-minute quarter. The open- their perimeter shooting.” (three goals). That’s the whole point behind creat- regular season. Campolindo finishes ing goal hit the corner of the net in the High scorers included Kimi Klein Although offensive efforts show ing a program and not just a team… at Dougherty Valley, and Miramonte first 15 seconds of play. (four goals), Annika Jensen (two on the scoreboard, the Matadors’ de- Our goal as a program is to continue hosts Acalanes in a game that is sure Campo’s momentum continued, goals), Sam Flower (two goals), and fense deserves credit too. “Zach Pax- to develop all of our players and bring to be a thriller. Today’s boys’ but the Lady Mats tightened their de- Natalie Seidemann (two goals). “Our ton played well as our goalkeeper and the (NCS) title back to Campolindo.” matchup will determine the winner of fense the rest of the game and held center play was also key - Natalie Sei- the team put great energy into playing The NCS Championships begin DFAL. Both the Mats and the Dons Campo to two goals in the second, demann and Hannah Buck, as their our team defensive system. This led November 2. boast undefeated records of 4-0. kept them scoreless in the third, and ability to hold side allowed our to some key transition opportunities In last week’s action on October allowed just one goal in the final perimeter to get great looks from the for the team, which led to goal scoring Season-to-date records: 19, the Acalanes boys beat Las Lomas quarter. outside,” Everist said. opportunities,” said head coach James Acalanes while the girls’ team fell to the Lady “We play a slightly different style, Miramonte got its turn at a win Lathrop. Paxton recorded 13 saves in Girls: 2-2 DFAL Knights. Campo met up with their with a strong emphasis on defense,” when the boys entered the pool. The the win. Boys: 4-0 DFAL cross-town rivals at Miramonte. Each said Lady Mats coach Trevor Rose. Mats dominated the Cougars from the Although the Cougars had fre- Campolindo school took home a win. Campo The Lady Cougars’ offense was very start, scoring no less than five quent attempts at goals, they had trou- Girls: 3-1 DFAL grabbed the win with the girls’ team, just too strong for the Mats’ defense, goals per quarter. The Cougar de- ble getting on the scoreboard. “The Boys: 1-3 DFAL finishing 10-4. The Miramonte boys’ however. Head coach Kim Everist fense could not stop the Matador of- hardest part is coming together and Miramonte team solidly defeated their Cougar credits the girls. “I think my team fensive force as the boys sunk balls learning how to trust and communi- Girls: 2-2 DFAL counterparts, 23-6. came out with great intensity and roughly every minute. Top scorers in- cate with one another inside and out- Boys: 4-0 DFAL

Lamorinda Weekly www.Lamorindaweekly.com is an independent publication, produced by and for the residents of Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda, CA Most Frequently Viewed Stories From Our Last Issue: Contact us: Staff Writers: Letters to the editor (max 350 words): Sophie Braccini; [email protected] [email protected] Cathy Tyson; [email protected] - Lafayette Love for the Jumping Flea Sport events/stories/pictures: Laurie Snyder; [email protected] - One Dish Meals from Ying Chang Compestine [email protected] Cathy Dausman, [email protected] - All Creatures Great and Small Art, theater, community events: Sports Editor: Caitlin Graveson [email protected] [email protected] - Small Town Meets Hollywood at Orinda’s Moneyball Business news or business press releases: Teen Coach: Cynthia Brian; - Letters to the Editor [email protected] [email protected] - Handicapped Ramp Inaccessible to Disabled School stories/events: Food: Susie Iventosch; [email protected] [email protected] Contributing Writers: BART Patrons General interest stories/Community Service: Andrea A. Firth, Conrad Bassett, Moya Stone, Ro- - Orinda Takes the Lead in Mapping Lamorinda AVA [email protected] sylyn Aragones Stenzel, Lucy Amaral, Alex Crook, - Cal Shakes Offers Discovery Program for Students Publishers/Owners: Andy and Wendy Scheck; Alex Kozela, Rebecca Eckland, Marissa Harnett, [email protected] Lou Fancher, Nina Mohan, Barry Hunau (cartoonist) - New Girl Scout Leaders: There is still time to join [email protected] Photos:Tod Fierner, Doug Kohen, Ohlen Alexander - Local Home Brewers Ready to Raise a Glass Editor: Lee Borrowman; Layout/Graphics: Andy Scheck, Jonas Scheck, to Oktoberfest [email protected] Amanda Griggs. Printed in CA. Advertising: 925-377-0977 Lamorinda Weekly, Wendy Scheck; [email protected] P.O. Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570-6133 Katie Malone; [email protected] Circulation: 26,200 printed copies; delivered to Phone: 925-377-0977; Fax: 1-800-690-8136; If you wish to view any of the stories above go to homes & businesses in Lamorinda. email: [email protected] www.lamorindaweekly.com and click the link below the story. Wednesday, October 26, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: C3 SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS SMC Men’s Basketball Visits Seals Take Second Elementary Schools Submitted by Matt Hansen

Matthew Dellavedova (left) and Mitchell Young reading at Donald Rheem Elementary School Photo Andy Scheck Saint Mary’s men’s basketball team traveled to local Lafayette and Moraga elementary schools From left, top row: Coach Ken Sintchak, Brett Donat, Tommy Thrasher, Nick Kresnak, Vince October 12-13 to read to students. The Reading Program started seven seasons ago and for the Bianchina, Grant Harper, Nicholas Bamont, coach Mose Bamont; bottom row: Kyle Sintchak, first time, was sponsored by Common Interest Management. The athletes read books to the Will Windatt, Owen Hansen, Erik Voss, Jack Muren. Not pictured, coach Rick Bianchina students, passed out rally towels and answered questions. Photo Matt Hansen he Lamorinda Baseball Academy's The undefeated Seals then took on Los TU10 Seals earned second place at the Gatos in the championship game. The Seals Lafayette Lighting Strike at Twin Creeks Hardball Challenge in Sun- took an early 2-0 lead into the 4th inning nyvale. The Seals won both games of a but couldn't hold on. Los Gatos won 6-3. Tournament double-header on Saturday, October 15, The Seals, who have only played to- Submitted by Alan Goepel defeating Fremont 18-6 and Palo Alto 10- gether as a team for a month and a half, 2. The following day the Seals overpow- earned second place finishes in both of the ered Union City by a score of 7-2 and two tournaments they entered this fall, recorded a 15-2 thrashing over Millbrae. recording a 6-3 record. Saint Mary's Men's Basketball Prepares for Season

From left, back row: Katie Chase, Natalie Goepel, Courtney Strand, Olivia Haney, Cori Griffin, Laura Pacioni; front row: Alexie Shurtz, Brenna Williams, Becca Crisp, Katie Palma, and Jamie Jacobs Photo Stan Crisp Saint Mary's men's basketball prepared for the November 11 season-opener with a split- The Lafayette Lightning 16U club softball team took second place at the Amatuer Soft- squad scrimmage on Sunday, October 23. For a full story on the Gaels 2011-2012 season ball Association Girls with Bats tournament played in Fairfield on October 9-10. check back next issue, November 9. Photo Andy Scheck Submit stories to [email protected] (we prefer to receive your original photo file, minimum size: 200 dpi and 1200 pixels wide)

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Music lessons Piano Tuning Insurance Painting Tree Service East Bay Tree Service. Piano/guitar Experienced Piano Tuning Totalintegrityinsurance.com LET ME BRIGHTEN 377-8733. Fine pruning, large % w/Robbie Dunbar By local music teacher 20+yr Lamorinda resident. YOUR HOME! tree removal, stump grinding All levels welcome! 925-323-9706 My independent insurance Specializing in License #805794 I travel to your home. brokerage is here to serve you. high quality interior painting M. A. Music Composition College Advising Over 100 top carriers = great Lic.#953962/Bonded/Insured <> Tree & brush removal. 925-323-9706 pricing and coverage for Biz Poison Oak removal. 376-1995, [email protected] Affordable College Advising Gen Liab, W Comp, Homes, Auto, Mark Alexander Owner Licensed, insured & bonded College Search & Essay Help Life. (925) 247-4356 0E90108 I’m local, and I’m a very nice guy! [email protected] Handyman Piano Lessons in Lafayette with (925) 370-6558 • (925) 787-6684 cell 925-247-1978 House cleaning professional instructor MTAC member. [email protected] HANDYMAN Competition, CM exam Preparation. Computer lessons www.totalclean.biz All types of repairs done. Woodworking, Rita Yegiazaryan 283-7601 Serving Lamorinda since 1985. Construction Electical, Audio, Leak repair, Drywall, Paint- ing and more. Clean neat & on time! COMPUTER PROBLEMS?? Insured and bonded 376-1004. SWARTS CONSTRUCTION No job to small, Senior Discount. Call TRANSBAY TECH ☎ (925) 708-6053 3OD\ SPECIALIZING IN LAMORINDA Foundations, drainage, remodel www.mikeslamorindahandymanservice.com FOR YOUR HOME & BUSINESS Monica’s Cleaning small repairs. 35 yrs. Lamorinda 3LDQR (925) 948-5546 Residential & Commercial Janitorial Services www.swartsco.com PC & MAC Support Virus Removal Lic. Free Estimates (925) 348-3761 Breakthrough Method * Lic# 613717 INSURED BONDED Fix, Paint, Repair anything. Upgrades * Data Recovery * Troubleshooting Professional & Reliable Simply Music has beginning Tutoring * iPhone & iPod set-up * Senior Free Estimates: 925.250.6610 students playing great-sounding Citizen Rate * Home Visits & more * Bonded Windows & Gutters Call Terry 925-788-1663 contemporary, blues, & classical & Insured * Half Price of the Competition No Travel Charge * Locally Owned Concept Builders pieces from the very first lessons! Reliable Window Cleaning Plumbing Children, teens, adults and seniors * Often Same Day Service * Remodeling, Home Repair & [email protected] Friendliness & remarkable results. New Construction Lamorinda Piano 925-300-7561 Windows, Gutters, Pressure Bonded & Insured. License no. 842563 www.simplymusic-lamorinda.com Washing. (925) 254-7622 Improve your technical skills (925) 283-8122, Cell: (925) 768-4983 ReliableWindowService.com for an exciting new career. Flute & Piano with Nika Rejto Learn Excel/Word/PowerPoint/ $8 per 1/2” classified Downtown Lafayette studio Outlook& Building Websites. ad height Email to We hop to it! Beginning - advanced, all styles Classes are in Orinda. Great teacher “Clean View” Window Washing of music. I can travel to you! with reasonable fees. Call today! Great references! John Galovich classified@ (925) 377-6600 925 310-4415, [email protected] Daisy Mishriki (925) 586-9782 Cell: (925) 787-3116 or 825-7115 lamorindaweekly.com LeapFrogPlumbing.com Page: C4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011

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Scenic Note Cards New hours: Our location: Moraga and St. Mary’s OPTOMETRY Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30 1480 Moraga Rd, Ste 1 Dr. Wm. Schwertscharf, O.D. Sat 9-4, Sun closed Moraga, CA 94556-2005 See many of • Comprehensive Vision Testing • Eye Disease Diagnosis Shipping Notary Services my Note • Specialty Contact Lens Care Coying, Finnishing Postal Services Cards at • Finest Quality Eyewear and Sunglasses Printing Services Business Services 1030 Country Club Drive, Ste. A www.Kynotecards.com Moraga • (925) 376-2020 www.theupsstore.com Family & Cosmetic Dentistry `ÉÜtzt exàÜxtà VtÜx Scott D. Lothamer, DDS Moraga - 925-376-4602 1030 Country Club Drive Our residents receive Assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, home Providing Personalized Care made meals, housekeeping and laundry, through Quality Dentistry entertainment and wellness programs. Tel 925.376.CARE (2273) Fax 925.376.7137 Member: ADA • CDA • CCDS • AACD [email protected] Lic#: 075601205

Watch for Love Lafayette November 9th Call for Advertising 925.377.0977 amorinda LOUR HOMES

Lamorinda Weekly Volume 05 Issue 17 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 Digging Deep with Cynthia Brian ...read on page D8 Happy Haunting over and children hop out for a photo in front of a tombstone. “We used to have a zipline – a giant bat would fly down the hill!” she recalls, adding that she feared an accident should a driver be surprised by the sight of a huge, winged creature hurtling down the hillside, so the bat was retired. Lamorinda is a relatively safe community, but it doesn’t hurt to keep a few safety tips in mind while the little monsters are out haunting on October 31: Make sure costumes are safe, allow clear vision and are visible in the dark; “dangerous” props such as knifes and scythes should be avoided or at least made of flexible material so unhappy accidents don’t happen; costumes that drag on the ground and high heels can result in injury. Stay in well-lit areas; if a home is dark, don’t ring the doorbell. If you don’t accompany your trick-or-treaters make sure you know the route they are taking and remind them of safety rules regarding crossing streets, never entering the home or car of a stranger, and coming home/calling on time. Children should be well-lit with glow-accessories and flash- lights, and you should be able to pick your child out in a crowd should the need arise. Unaccompanied kids should al- The folks in Burton Valley go all out decorating their homes for halloween. This suburban graveyard is just one of many frightening ways stay in a group. facades getting dolled up for Halloween. Scores of little monsters make the annual pilgrimage to Merriewood Drive...also known as Trick-or-treaters of all ages should keep in mind the dif- Scary-wood Drive to maximixe treats. Neighborhood kids and their parents have a sweet pre-holiday tradition, Boo burglars do a ference between a trick and vandalism. reverse burgle - ring the doorbell and leave a little basket/pumpkin of candy before running away. For homes hit by the Boo burglar, We wish pirates, princesses and characters of every there are instructions to pay it forward, delivering sugary morsels to other unsuspecting souls. Photo Cathy Tyson kind a safe and thrilling Halloween! L.Borrowman he signs are unmistakable—they appear on front yards and driveways, in doorways and windows. TEverything from scarecrows to skeletons, pumpkin patches to graveyards, and all manner of creepy crawlies in between have taken up residence across Lamorinda as Hal- loween approaches. Rebecca Nadauld of Orinda first created a graveyard in front her home five years ago. For her, it’s all about the fun factor for her children. She describes her parents as minimal- ists when it came to Halloween decorations, and she wanted to do something special for her own kids, who “really get into helping with the decorations” now that they are old enough. The Nadauld home is a popular attraction every fall – the kids’ friends start asking in late September when the dec- orations will go up. Last year, Nadauld even saw a car pull The Nadaulds' home on St. Stephens Drive in Orinda features a graveyard at Halloween Photo Doug Kohen Page: D2 OUR HOMES Wed., October 26, 2011 VLATKA BATHGATE RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE IF I HAD A BUYER FOR YOUR HOME Lamorinda Home Sales recorded WOULD YOU SELL IT? City Last reported: LOWEST AMOUNT: HIGHEST AMOUNT: To find out how I can negotiate the highest LAFAYETTE 15 $505,000 $2,075,000 MORAGA 15 $185,000 $1,170,000 possible price, call me at 925 597 1573 ORINDA 5 $599,000 $800,000 [email protected] Home sales are compiled by Cal REsource, an Oakland real estate information company. Sale prices are computed from the county transfer tax information shown on the deeds that record at close of escrow and are published five to eight weeks after such recording. DRE#01390784 This information is obtained from public county records and is provided to us by California REsource. Neither Cal REsource nor this publication are liable for errors or omissions. LAFAYETTE ― 967 3rd Street, $850,000, 3 Bdrms, 1853 SqFt, 1948 YrBlt, 9-16-11 For Sale 2227 La Salle Dr, Walnut Creek 3567 Boyer Circle, $650,000, 4 Bdrms, 2570 SqFt, 1938 YrBlt, 9-27-11; Previous Sale: $520,000, 01-24-02 Your next Home! 3244 Camino Colorados, $625,000, 3 Bdrms, 1184 SqFt, 1951 YrBlt, 9-16-11; Exquisite, beautifuly remodeled 4 bed/2bath home with Previous Sale: $625,000, 02-12-04 fabulous curb appeal in a highly 1168 Camino Vallecito, $2,075,000, 6 Bdrms, 5243 SqFt, 1978 YrBlt, 9-16-11; desirable neighborhood. Previous Sale: $2,600,000, 04-04-06 Entertainers dream home. 3618 Chestnut Street, $570,000, 3 Bdrms, 2334 SqFt, 9-23-11; Offered at $585,000 Previous Sale: $95,000, - - 37 Diablo Circle, $1,189,000, 4 Bdrms, 2699 SqFt, 1980 YrBlt, 9-19-11; Recently Sold by Vlatka Previous Sale: $1,435,000, 07-20-06 800 Mariposa Road, $1,070,000, 5 Bdrms, 2792 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 9-20-11 25 Old Millstone Lane, $1,515,000, 4 Bdrms, 2249 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 9-26-11; Pending Pending Previous Sale: $625,000, 04-13-98 2596 Pebble Beach Loop, $505,000, 3 Bdrms, 2052 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 9-27-11; Previous Sale: $475,000, 03-31-08 12 Ruth Court, $765,000, 3 Bdrms, 1624 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 9-20-11; 136 Spring Rd, Orinda 20 Birch Ct, Orinda Previous Sale: $325,000, 12-28-10 Sale Pending, Representing Seller and Buyer Sale Pending, Representing Seller and Buyer 3419 Shangri La Road, $880,000, 5 Bdrms, 3123 SqFt, 1973 YrBlt, 9-20-11; Previous Sale: $112,500, 03-01-74 3495 Stage Coach Drive, $1,400,000, 5 Bdrms, 3541 SqFt, 1989 YrBlt, 9-28-11; Sold Sold Previous Sale: $530,000, 11-10-88 3091 Sweetbrier Circle, $856,500, 3 Bdrms, 1874 SqFt, 1962 YrBlt, 9-19-11 1 West Creek Court, $525,000, 3 Bdrms, 1926 SqFt, 1953 YrBlt, 9-28-11; Previous Sale: $850,000, 04-18-05 1080 Upper Happy Valley Road, $1,650,000, 5 Bdrms, 3082 SqFt, 1941 YrBlt, 9-15-11; 55 Lombardy Ln, Orinda 12 Valley View Dr, Orinda Previous Sale: $900,000, 10-03-02 Sold for $1,345,000, Represented Buyer Sold for $970,000, Represented Buyer MORAGA 798 Augusta Drive, $905,000, 3 Bdrms, 2430 SqFt, 1978 YrBlt, 9-23-11; Previous Sale: $510,000, 04-08-94 Rented Sold 927 Augusta Drive, $875,000, 5 Bdrms, 3424 SqFt, 1989 YrBlt, 9-15-11; Previous Sale: $990,000, 01-06-05 11 Buckingham Drive, $705,000, 3 Bdrms, 1583 SqFt, 1960 YrBlt, 9-27-11; Previous Sale: $820,000, 01-12-07 1 Culver Ct,Orinda 740 Glenside Circle, Lafayette 23 Cumberland Lane, $530,000, 3 Bdrms, 2042 SqFt, 1968 YrBlt, 9-22-11 Rented for $4,200/month Sold at $1,220,000, Represented Buyer 151 Cypress Point Way, $785,000, 3 Bdrms, 2060 SqFt, 1973 YrBlt, 9-20-11; Represented Landlord and Tenant Previous Sale: $255,000, 09-01-83 400 Deerfield Drive, $1,170,000, 3 Bdrms, 3041 SqFt, 1965 YrBlt, 9-16-11; Sold Sold Previous Sale: $515,000, 11-18-98 2133 Donald Drive #9, $185,000, 2 Bdrms, 1224 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 9-28-11; Previous Sale: $469,000, 04-14-06 56 Miramonte Drive, $375,000, 2 Bdrms, 927 SqFt, 1964 YrBlt, 9-27-11; Previous Sale: $360,000, 07-27-09 788 El Pintado, Danville 1860 Tice Creek Dr #1307 ... contined on page D4 Sold for $1,420,000, Represented Buyer Sold at $295,000, Represented Seller Lamorinda Foreclosures recorded WWW.BESTLAMORINDAHOMES.COM LAFAYETTE Pine Lane, 94549, Aurora Loan Services, 09-13-11, $1,513,815, 4966 sf, 5 bd Patricia Battersby Ashley Battersby 925-330-6663 925-323-9955 [email protected] [email protected] ASSOCIATES DRE# 00854469 DRE# 01407784 REAL ESTATE www.patriciabattersby.com

Happy Valley Treasure! 1089 Rahara Drive, Lafayette

3,448 Sq. Ft. .55 Acre 4Bedrooms 3Baths Timeless Style , A Classic Beauty Stunning Architectural Detail Totally Updated, Designed to Perfection Prime Location Spectacular Setting and Lovely Yard Offered at $1,745,000

Beautiful Craftsman Style! 3407 Shangri La, Lafayette

Great Price for Newer Construction (2005) 3,972 Sq. Ft. 1.08 Acres 4Bedrooms Office 3.5Baths

Gorgeous Oak Studded Setting Yard with Lawn and Play Area High Quality Finishes and Detailing Offered at $1,395,000 Page: D4 OUR HOMES Wed., October 26, 2011 Art Lehman Proudly Presents the Best of Lamorinda... Lamorinda Home Sales recorded ... continued from page D2 MORAGA continued 107 Miramonte Drive, $430,000, 2 Bdrms, 1514 SqFt, 1965 YrBlt, 9-15-11; Previous Sale: $345,000, 12-06-00 279 Rheem Boulevard, $680,000, 3 Bdrms, 1682 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 9-16-11; Previous Sale: $830,000, 03-18-05 312 Rheem Boulevard, $810,000, 3 Bdrms, 2096 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 9-23-11; Previous Sale: $512,500, 06-06-03 1223 Rimer Drive, $906,000, 4 Bdrms, 2290 SqFt, 1966 YrBlt, 9-26-11 336 Tharp Drive, $640,000, 3 Bdrms, 1903 SqFt, 1965 YrBlt, 9-23-11; Previous Sale: $259,500, 05-07-87 12 Wandel Drive, $620,000, 4 Bdrms, 1643 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 9-19-11 18 Wandel Drive, $640,000, 3 Bdrms, 1514 SqFt, 1959 YrBlt, 9-16-11; Previous Sale: $520,000, 03-14-00 Privacy and Views in Burton Valley! ORINDA 3272 WOODVIEW DRIVE LAFAYETTE 52 Las Cascadas Road, $599,000, 3 Bdrms, 845 SqFt, 1926 YrBlt, 9-26-11; You’ll feel immediately comfortable in this spacious 4 bedroom and 3 bath home Previous Sale: $100,000, 10-13-86 9 Oak Road, $800,000, 3 Bdrms, 2387 SqFt, 1976 YrBlt, 9-28-11; on a sprawling .37 acre lot with front and back level lawns and pool in highly Previous Sale: $538,000, 07-12-91 desirable Burton Valley. Terrific views and privacy. Gleaming refinished hardwood 5 Wanda Lane, $630,000, 3 Bdrms, 3101 SqFt, 1987 YrBlt, 9-21-11; floors, lovely kitchen with breakfast nook, and huge family room downstairs or Previous Sale: $875,000, 08-12-05 use as possible full in law. Offered at $949,000 228 the Knoll, $668,000, 2 Bdrms, 2141 SqFt, 1974 YrBlt, 9-28-11; Previous Sale: $800,000, 04-13-06 408 Wovenwood, $680,000, 2 Bdrms, 2117 SqFt, 1973 YrBlt, 9-19-11; Previous Sale: $340,000, 04-21-93

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Valley Glen property offers one of the most special residential retreats. Privacy and Realtors quiet with a secluded setting as it backs to Briones regional Park, this 1.60 acre 7RS2SSRUWXQLWLHVLQ Mediterranean style estate property built in 1999 is the perfect venue for informal 1) Buy foreclosures in select neighborhoods and cities in Contra Costa gatherings and grand-scale entertaining. Offered at $2,799,000 County, for strong rental income returns, with future appreciation. 2) Buy a home in Lafayette, Moraga, or Orinda, in a rare buyer’s market. 3) Sell in the under $1,000,000 range in Lamorinda, where sales are now improving, and move up to your dream house in a higher price range where the best negotiating opportunities exist. 4) Downsize, and sell in Lamorinda, where the market has not dropped as Art Lehman much, then buy a great one-story home at a bargain price in a nice neighborhood where homes have dropped more. Keep a low property 925-200-2591 tax by transferring it to the new house within Contra Costa County. Artlehman.com DRE# 01159698 DRE# 1835783 WWW.HOLCENBERG.COM Client satisfaction: a family tradition Two Beautiful Moraga Homes With Fabulous New Prices

Wendy Holcenberg [email protected] 925.253.4630 DRE#00637795 903 Augusta Drive, Moraga 3767 Via Granada, Moraga Michelle Holcenberg Gracious 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Forest Hills model with master This traditional home with a charming covered porch in front [email protected] bedroom on the main level. More than 2800 square feet. Open features 5 bedrooms (with a possibility for 6), 3 baths, plus an office, kitchen family room, dramatic living/formal dining room with high and a large, level yard with lawn, patio and play area. It has been 925.253.4663 ceilings and views. New carpet and tile flooring, dual-paned windows, updated with attention to detail throughout. The kitchen features DRE#01373412 private deck, wooded setting, spacious bedrooms. Moraga Country stainless appliances & views of the yard. The bathrooms are done Club amenities, top-rated schools, close to shopping, walking path with granite and marble. Hardwood, dual-paned windows, 2-zone ac. and more. Offered at $789,000 Excellent commute location. Offered at $999,000 Call us today to start planning for a successful sale or purchase in 2012!

Briones/Alhambra Valley. Danville. Custom home 10Ͳ75acparcelslessthan tucked away in mature prvt. 20 minutes. from Orinda ctonlevel.46lot.5bed,3.5 and Lafayette. Build your ba., 3 car gar. 3900sf., dreamhome,plantavineyard,have lrgbonusrmw/lovelyfoyer,formal room for horses, or enjoy natural living & dining rm. Prof. designer Alamo. Great neighborhood Walnut Creek. Almond/       surroundings. Some lots are ready kitchen w/ oversized island & spa tucked at the back of White Shueyneighborhood,classic      Ͳ to build with good wells, electricity cious nook. Backyard w/pool/spa & Gate.2story4bdrm3.5bth elegance throughout. SpaͲ      andphonelinestoparcel. 5 burner BBQ bar. Family rm w/ built home w/over 3100 sqft. upͲ ciouslivingroomw/vaulted         $595,000Ͳ$2,500,000. in entertainment cntr, bookshelves, dated throughout.Private ceilings, large family room,      fireplace & beverage bar. Add’l backyard w/newly refinished pebble formal dining, parlor & 3 upstairs       200sf. walk in attic. $1,425,000 tech pool & outdoor kitchen.Large bedrooms. Gorgeous oak flooring,      The Pereira Team 925.297.0321 game rm w/pool table, plasma TV & newpaint&fixtures.$749,950 Joan Marx 925.683.7696 moreincludedinthesale.$1,299,000  Gretchen Bryce 925.683.2477 Rick Fiset 925.362.0415 - -3 3Great Great Homes Homes - -

AvailableAvailable Now! Now! The Olse CallCall 925.200.6000 925.200.6000 for for information. information. Lamorinda Spec

Sue & Ben Olsen www.TheOl

Selection of 2011 Sellers Represented by The Olsen Team

272 Tharp Dr. 18251825 St. St. Andrews Andrews Drive, Drive, Moraga Moraga

4 BR,4 BR, 2.5 2.5 BA, BA, 3424 3424 sq. sq. ft. ft. $979,000 $979,000 FabulousFabulous updated updated Sequoyah Sequoyah model model - Newer - Newer windows windows and and decks, decks, lots lots of of hardwood,hardwood, updated updated Kitchen Kitchen and and Master Master Bath. Bath. Great Great Views! Views! 662/'2 / ' 62/'6 2 / ' 62/'62/'  62/'62/'  62/'62/' 80 Lynwood Place, Moraga 22 Charles Hill

4141 Greenfield Greenfield Drive, Drive, Moraga Moraga 662/'2 / ' 62/'6 2 /' 62/'6 2 / ' 62/'62/'  62/'62/'  62/'62/'

3 BR,3 BR, 3 BA, 3 BA, 2325 2325 sq. sq. ft., ft., .33 .33 Acres Acres $899,000 $899,000 297 Corliss Drive 1047 Larch Ave. 272 Tharp Drive egantlyElegantly expanded expanded Harold Harold Smith Smith home home with with open open Kitchen/Family Kitchen/Family Room. Room. PlusPlus spacious spacious formal formal LR, LR, DR. DR. Large Large lot lot with with views views and and nice nice privacy. privacy.

662/'2 / ' 62/'6 2 /' 62/'6 2 / ' 62/'62/'  62/'62/'  62/'62/' 50 York Place 4 Sparrow Court 475 Kingsford Drive

662/'2 / ' 62/'6 2 /' 62/'6 2 / ' 62/'62/'  62/'62/' 101101 Brookline Brookline Street, Street, Moraga Moraga 1412 Camino Peral 116 Corliss Drive 900 Camino 2 BR+Office,2 BR+Office, 2 BA,2 BA, 2055 2055 sq. sq. ft. ft. $695,000 $695,000 DetachedDetached Moraga Moraga Country Country Club Club Home. Home. All All the the right right spaces spaces - -Large Large FamilyFamily Room Room + Kitchen, + Kitchen, Formal Formal LR, LR, DR. DR. Great Great Views! Views! Visit us online today! RecentRecent Praise Praise for for The The Olsen Olsen Team Team en Team TheThe OlsenOlsen Team Team sells sells houses, houses, but but we we know know that tha thisthis isis a a people people business. business. We We have have a longa long stand- stan inging traditiontradition of of treating treating people people with with empathy, empathy, cialists Since 1977 respectrespect and and good good humor. humor. Here Here is iswhat what some some ofof ourour recent recent clients clients are are saying: saying: CA DRE 00616156 lsenTeam.com Direct: (925) 200-6000 TheThe OlsenOlsen Team Team is is the the most most knowledgeable, knowledgeable, hard hard working,working, competent competent real real estate esta teteam team in thein the Lamorinda Lamorind area,area, oror for for that that matter matter - anywhere.- anywhere. We We cannot cannot begin begi toto adequatelyadequately express express our our deep deep appreciation..... appreciation..... Selection of 2011 Buyers — — Don Don and and Dotty Dotty Miller Miller Represented by The Olsen Team WeWe havehave bought bought and and sold sold 7 7homes homes over over the the past past two tw decadesdecades and and believe believe The The Olsen Olsen Team Team are are the the most most professionalprofessional and and productive productive realtors realtors we we have have ever ever workedworked with. with. They They had had a acomprehensive comprehensive strategic strategic plan pla andand executedexecuted it it flawlessly flawlessly in ina verya very difficult difficult market. market. —— Del Del and and Janice Janice Kolbe Kolbe

62/' 62/' 62/'62/' 6 2 / '62/'  6 2 62/'/ '  662/'2 / ' InIn allall respects,respects, the the Olsen Olsen Team Team has has exceeded exceeded our our 30 Crest Road 1588 Del Monte Ct. 9 Merrill Drive expectations.expectations. They They are are delightful delightful to towork work with, with, and and theythey havehave been been consistently consistently responsive, responsive, knowledge- knowledge able,able, professional,professional, and and helpful. helpful. We We have have worked worked with wi otherother realtors,realtors, but but we we never never expected expected the the incredible incredible levellevel ofof service service we we received received from from the the Olsen Olsen Team. Team. - -The The Erickson-King Erickson-King Family Family

TheThe OlsenOlsen Team Team was was easy easy to to work work with with and and their their 62/' 62/' 62/' 62/' 62/'62/' 6 2 / '62/'  6 2 62/'/ '  662/'2 / ' locallocal expertiseexpertise led led to to the the successful successful sale sale of ourof our family fam 1042 Sunnybrook 3 Roberts Court 1609 Las Trampas home.home. As As an an out out of of town town seller, seller, Sue Sue and and Ben Ben were were ableable toto handle handle nearly nearly everything everything for for us. us. The The inspec- inspec tions,tions, updates,updates, cleaning cleaning and and staging staging of ofthe the home home werewere seamless,seamless, and and all all were were handled handled by byprofessional professiona resourcesresources that that met met our our high high standards. standards. - Sellers- Sellers at at50 50 York York Place Place

62/' 62/' 62/' 62/' 62/'62/' 6 2 / '62/'  6 2 62/'/ '  662/'2 / ' WithoutWithout all all your your hard hard work, work, coordination coordination of allof allthe the variousvarious contractor contractor jobs jobs and and inspections, inspections, we we never never 182 Ravenhill Road 18 Lavenida 452 Millfield Place wouldwould bebe where where we we are. are. I cannotI cannot tell tell you you how how much muc II appreciateappreciate all all that that you you did did for for us. us. I am I am well well aware aware ofof howhow much much work work you you put put into into getting getting the the condo condo sold.sold. YouYou were were always always calm calm and and patient patient with with me me and an thethe restrest of of my my crew. crew. - -Trustee Trustee of of an an Orinda Orinda Estate Estate

62/' 62/' 62/' 62/' 62/'62/' 6 2 62/'/ '  662/'2 / ' HelpingHelping nice nice people people make make smart smart Real Real Estate Estate decisions. decisions. Del Rio, Lafayette 469 Fernwood Drive 100 Devin Drive TheThe OlsenOlsen Team Team www.TheOlsenTeam.com Page: D8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 Thrills, Chills, Gourds, and Ghouls Gimme Shelter By Cynthia Brian by Andi Peterson Brown “From ghoulies and ghosties, And long-leggedy beasties, And things that go elieve it or not, quite a few bump in the night.” Scottish Saying Bcommunities in the Bay Area are in THRILLS rooms into a wicked wonderland with doors in full sun after all frost has passed the midst of a housing shortage, and hen our children were young, Oc- ghoulish gourds, floating ghosts, and wail- next spring. We can learn from the Native Lamorinda is no exception. Ok, raise tober was a favorite month be- ing witches on broomsticks. As dusk Americans who planted the “Three Sis- your hand if you just had to reread that W cause of the traditional weekend we spent turned to darkness with only the flicker ters” together–corn (maize), squash, and sentence. I know—given the negative with three other families far from the from candles, oil lamps, and a star-stud- beans. The corn allowed stalks for the news out there surrounding all things housing, it seems like it can’t be true, maddening crowds on Mount St. Helena. ded sky, a creepy eeriness permeated the beans to climb, the beans added nitrogen right? But I assure you, it is. The location was a hidden Halloween pasture. Shadows terrorized the spider- to the soil, and the squash provided In Lamorinda, our inventory is haven, miles from civilization with webbed crevices while the costumed chil- ground cover and shade for the roots, less- down almost 34% year to date and enough bewitching brilliance to satisfy dren chowed on spooky servings of ening weed growth. Since squash require we’ve sold more homes. We are any ghost. We stayed in a restored historic spaghetti squash and drank magic juice large amounts of nitrogen to flourish, after working through our inventory without Victorian from the 1800’s with a wrap potions from tombstones and rest in this year’s harvest, plant cover crops of replenishing it. around porch perched on several acres of peace goblets. Fearsome and ferocious crimson clover, hairy vetch, or fava beans Because of that, the Lamorinda pristine forestland dotted with fruit or- creatures lurked behind each squeaky to enrich the soil. market currently has about 3.5 months of chards. There was no electricity and water door as we adults dressed to thrill our Squash has been grown for at least inventory. That means that if no new list- was pumped from nearby springs. Days trick or treat offspring with each hesitant 8,000 years. In the 16th century, the Span- ings came on the market, at our current were spent harvesting vegetables from the knock. The Montesol Halloween’s were ish conqueror of the Incan world, Fran- pace of sales we would run out of homes massive gardens for our meals, pressing frightfully fun offering electrifying mem- cisco Pizarro (now that’s a great in 3.5 months. Conventional wisdom says apples into cider, hiking the hillsides, fish- ories while being completely safe. Halloween costume) introduced squash that a healthy housing market has any- where from 5-6 months of inventory, with ing in the creeks, riding horses bareback, The ambling gardens provided the to the European community. Native to anything less deemed a seller’s market, and and exploring the haunted barn where the harvest collection of squash, pumpkins, South America and Mexico, there are four anything more deemed a buyer’s market. creepy crawlies and battalions of bats bur- and gourds as the highlight of those Oc- species of the genus Curcubita. Varieties So wait a minute. Does that mean rowed. tober experiences. You can create a com- of edible squash include many zucchinis, this is a seller’s market? The answer is that As the six children carved hordes of parable Halloween ritual in your own crooknecks, spaghetti squash, pumpkins, for some sellers yes, and for some sellers, pumpkins on the damp meadow, the par- garden by planting gourds galore. Grow- butternuts, and “pepos” or old world mel- no. We are seeing homes that are well ents transformed each of the antiquated ing is easy. Plan now to directly seed out- ons. We call them a vegetable, but they are priced, well staged, and well marketed truly a fruit. Cucumbers and many gourds oftentimes sell within a few short weeks. are squash relatives. The wart covered, But the other homes? If the market lavishly colored gourds that decorate our deems a home to miss the mark in price autumn atmospheres are inedible and/or condition, we are seeing that “pepos”. home languish. For those homes, it’s ...continued on page D10 truly a field day for buyers.

Moral of the story? It’s ok to sell right now. In fact, we need you. Price and market your home correctly and you just might be surprised to see the buyers come flocking.

Real Estate Broker AndiBrownHomes.com 925.818.4588

DRE# 01738605 The saffron and burnt umber shades real local • real knowledge • real value A smiling Jack O' Lantern and Indian corn Photo Cynthia Brian of the pistache tree. Wednesday, October 26, 2011 925-377-0977 www.lamorindaweekly.com OUR HOMES LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: D9

Cynthia Brian’s Gardening Guide for November No shade, no shine, no butterflies, no bees, no fruits, no flowers, no leaves, no birds - November! ~Thomas Hood, "No!" November is not as dire as Thomas Hood writes, yet, with the falling leaves, the chilly winds, and shorter days of sun light, we understand that Mother Nature is bedding down for the upcoming winter. Whether you build a big bonfire on the driveway, play croquet on the lawn, orlisten to the sighing of the soil, be a humble pilgrim while experiencing a grateful gathering with friends and family on Thanksgiving Day. • ATTRACT lizards by raking leaves and brush into a pile. The shelter invites these helpful reptiles to your garden. • ALLOW a smattering of spent rose blooms to develop rose hips. Excellent for tea as a vitamin C booster. • DEADHEAD the rest of your roses as the petals fade to maintain a steady stream of colorful, fragrant bouquet through the New Year. • COLOR your world by planting bushes that boast fall and winter berries such as cotoneaster, holly, and pyracantha. Robins may get drunk on the red berries, while migratory birds are grateful for the nutritious fuel. • MULCH by shredding the raked leaves from the deciduous trees adding grass clippings, dried plants stems, and trimmings all which provide water conservation, better drainage, and nutrients to the soil. • DECORATE your front door with a wreath made from gourds, tiny pumpkins, and autumn leaves. Add a witch or goblin for a spooky Halloween, then, for Thanksgiving switch to a wood cut out of pilgrims or turkeys plus Indian corn, apples, and nuts. One arrangement doubles as a star cornucopia for fall fun. • DISCOVER trees that tickle your fancy with their brilliant fall foliage at your local nurseries. When you see trees dressed in their full autumn attire, it’s easier to choose ones that best suit your garden. Make sure to consider size, sun, and spread when buying a tree. • ADD texture, color, and all season interest to your landscape by planting low maintenance ornamental grasses such as purple fountaingrass, arching maidengrass, blue fescue, or the popular, upright feather reedgrass. • STAY ALERT for brush fire danger. As you cut branches and rake leaves, keep them far from your home and other burnable structures. Despite recent rains, fires happen when the winds kick up. Clean your chimney before igniting your wood burning fireplaces. Twenty years ago at this time in 1991, the East Bay hills witnessed one of the most devastating late season fires in history. • PLANT your spring blooming bulbs now including daffodils, crocus, tulips, and other favorites. You’ll be able to continue planting bulbs through January. Mark the location with plant tags or wooden paint sticks. • PERK up your optimism quotient with perennials that energize, soothe, and lift your mood. It’s planting time for Oriental Poppies, eonies,P and Bearded Iris. • LOOKING for an extravagant gift for that special someone? You can have a rose commissioned with their name for fees beginning around $9500. Roses are registered with the International Cultivar Registration Authority. I’d love a Starstyle® rose, but it may have to wait. Darn! If you have the bucks, visit http://paulzimmermanroses.com/?page_id=1141. • PICK up acorns that fall from the oak trees before they take root. Put them in a pile outside of your garden fence to feed the deer and

the squirrels. DAVID PIERCE PROUDLY PRESENTS • ROAST sweet potatoes with sliced garlic, chopped hazelnuts, sprigs PRIVATE SLEEPY HOLLOW ESTATE Prudential of rosemary tossed with olive oil and balsamic for a savory sweet 70 VAN TASSEL LANE | ORINDA California Realty treat. Top with peppery arugula and nasturtium blossoms picked www.70VanTassel.com from your garden. • CLOSE your garage and shed doors as you enter and leave to avoid unwanted intruders such as slithering serpents and rambling rodents who are anxious to bed down for a long winters nap. (Experience on this one, most certainly!) • PAMPER our feathered friends with clean nesting boxes and plenty of food. As the weather changes, they appreciate a little help from humans. • SUBJECT your Christmas cactus to cold temperatures in the 50’s or leave pots of them in the dark for 12 hours a day to encourage holiday blooms. • WINTERIZE your patio by covering or storing furniture, pads, and accessories Move frost tender plants in pots near the house for warmth. • BREATHE in the chilly air on a clear day as you savor the season’s final blossoms and scented flower fragrances. Winter is drawing near. 925 | 254 | 5984 • GRATITUDE works. My heartfelt thank you to all of you who read [email protected] my column faithfully. Wishing you a healthy holiday and terrific Thanksgiving. davidpierce.net

Happy Gardening to YOU!

©2011 Cynthia Brian Lushly Landscaped 1.2 Acre Lot | 3,697 SF Home | 3+ Bedrooms (Luxurious Master Suite) | 3 Baths The Goddess Gardener Mid-Century Home Stunningly Updated w/Lavish Entertaining In Mind | Superbly Appointed Upgrades [email protected] Airy | Comfortable | Spacious Floor Plan | Gardens & Patios in Park-Like Setting www.GoddessGardener.com 2 Fireplaces | Skylights | Equipped Kitchen is the Ɔ of Everyday Living | Manicured & Natural Surrounds 925-377-7827 3-Car Garage w/Storage ++ | Ample Off-Street Parking | | Orinda Schools | GREAT LOCATION My virtual door is always open. I am available as a Offered at $1,595,00 speaker and consultant. Feel free to contact me.. Page: D10 OUR HOMES Wednesday, October 26, 2011 MORAGA GARDEN Thrills, Chills, Gourds, and Ghouls Last ...continued from page D8 weekend! CENTER The blossoms of squash are deli- make a welcome greeting on the cious, but make sure you are frying or doorstep. stuffing the male blossoms and not the CHILLS female ones or you won’t have a crop. A suicide honeybee? Never would Annual Fall Sale Although both blossoms look similar, have I believed this possible had I not you can tell the difference because the witnessed its desire to drown with my st females have a tiny fruit at the base, own eyes. In the throes of heat of our In- Ends Oct. 31 which matures into the vegetable we dian summer, I always make sure to up to up to cook, while the males are smooth. Also, keep my garden water elements filled as 5 Gallon don’t forget to save seeds both for plant- a cool respite for our flying friends. This Roses 20% Off 50% Off ing and for enjoying. Dry them for a week as I filled the fountain, a bee flew General Nursery couple of weeks and roast them for into the gurgling froth. Being too deep reg. $3000 California Stock, school snacks. for a bee to extricate himself (I refer to 99 now $15 Natives selected items Are you wondering what the dif- the bees as male!), I carefully lifted the ferences are between advertised “sum- bee to a nearby leaf with my hand Free Plants with Purchase mer” squash and “winter” squash? trowel. Two minutes later, the bee dove Moraga Garden Center 9am-5pm Simple, you pick summer squash early, back into the water. Again, I removed located at the Moraga Shopping Center 7 days a week at any size, when the fruit is immature- him to a nearby shrub where I watched 925-376-1810 such as very small zucchini. Winter his behavior. He shook off the damp- squash is harvested at full maturity ness, flapped his fairy wings, and nose- when the stem is brown and frost is dived into the water yet again. We looming. Store all squash varieties up to repeated our dance thirteen times until three months in a cool room of 50-60 I realized I couldn’t save him from him- degrees instead of in the refrigerator. self. With colony collapse syndrome a Winter squash recipes abound for your real threat to agriculture and vegetation Thanksgiving feast. renewal, why was this honeybee deter- Squash and gourds have symbol- mined to die? Was his demise due to Lic.: #611120 ized the autumn season for centuries be- the unlucky number thirteen, or was he & Landscaping cause of their varied colors and harvest forecasting the arrival of ghost bees in Family owned in Moraga since 1987 times in fall. Orange has become the sig- our bonnets! Your friendly neighborhood arborists Darren and Lew Edwards nature color for October and Novem- Enjoy the thrills, chills, gourds, New Tree Planting ber. Since the origin of the Irish myth of and ghouls. Carve a pumpkin with Think of the tree you just purchased as a lifetime investment. How well your tree, and Stingy Jack roaming the dark night with wolves howling at the full moon, hear investment, grows depends on the type of tree and location you select for planting, the care only a piece of fiery coal to light the way, the churchyards yawn, and grab your you provide when the tree is planted, and follow-up care the tree receives after planting. children have been carving scary faces broomstick for the witching hour. The ideal time to plant trees and shrubs is during the dormant season-in the fall after their into turnips, potatoes, and of course, Happy Hallowed Eve! Boo! leaves drop or early spring before bud breaks. Weather conditions are cool and allow plants to establish roots in the new location. The proper handling during planting is essential to pumpkins to illuminate Halloween with ensure a healthy future for new trees and shrubs. the Jack O’Lantern, So don’t wait until it’s too late, call your local Arborist at As Albert Camus wrote, “Autumn Advance Tree Service and Landscaping to help you find is a second spring when every leaf is a your perfect tree. flower.” After Halloween, save those un- Advance Tree Service carved fruits, corn stalks, and hay bales Your Authority on Trees and Landscape. for November adornment. For the 925-376-6528 Thanksgiving season, a colorful cornu- [email protected] www.advancetree.com copia of blue, while, and orange pump- Follow us on Twitter (advancetree) and like us on Face Book kins combined with the multihued Pyrancantha berries beckon the (ADVANCETREESERVICEANDLANDSCAPINGINC.) gourds, squash, and autumn leaves birds to dine! Wed., October 26, 2011 OUR HOMES Pag e: D11 Garden Lights landscape & Recycling in Lamorinda pool development inc. The numbers below are provided by the Central Costa Garden Lights is an Award Winning County Solid Waste Authority (CCCSWA) and will be Landscape Design-Build Firm included in the Lamorinda Weekly on an ongoing basis Offering Services in . . . when available. • Landscape Design & Installation RECYCLE - OMETERS Planting - Masonry - Concrete - Carpentry 60% 55% 65% • Low-voltage Landscape Lighting 50% 70% • Pool / Spa Design, Installation & Remodels

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July 2011 Lafayette’s Recycling Rate for July 925-254-4797 60% 55% 65% Free Consultations 50% 70% Serving the Lamorinda Area for 18 years. Bonded – Licensed & Insured Lic. #702845 45% 75%

Moraga’s Recycling Rate for July DESIGN e Ri INSTALLATION u dg 60% IRRIGATION l 55% 65% e DRAINAGE B 50% 70% STONEWORK

45% 75% CONCRETE WORK DECKS 925-258-9233 FENCES cell: 510-847-6160 Orinda’s Recycling Rate for July PATIOS Landscape Company Inc. LAWNS PONDS Blue Jay Feldman LICENSED RECYCLE - OMETERS OWNER/OPERATOR INSURED 60% CLEANUP & 55% 65% HAULING www.blueridgelc.com Lic# 818633 50% 70%

45% 75%

Lafayette’s Recycling Rate for August

60% 55% 65% August 2011 August 50% 70%

45% 75%

Moraga’s Recycling Rate for August

60% 55% 65%

50% 70% 45% 75% family owned since 1933

Orinda’s Recycling Rate for August

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ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA THE VILLAGE ASSOCIATES: Ashley Battersby Patricia Battersby New Price New Price New Price 24 Lavenida 255 La Espiral 345 Camino Sobrante 63 Moraga Via Joan Cleveland Impeccably maintained & exquisitely expanded 2410 4bd/2.5ba Old Orinda classic 1937 beauty Updated 4bd/3ba, 3301 sf contemp on .55 ac in primo NEW PRICE! Great value for this remodeled sf custom hm. Gorgeous grounds w/lvl lawns, lovingly restored & enhanced w/Carmel country club loc w/spacious great rm, updated kitchen, Glorietta charmer on a beautiufl lot. Joan Eggers gardens, shaded deck overlooking creek. Stunning pvt charm. Chef's kitchen w/adj fam rm, ideal hdwd flrs, lower lvl guest apt w/pvt entrance, ofc, lg www.63MoragaVia.com Linda Ehrich mstr suite. Walk to 12 yrs. school. setting, privacy, views, vineyard! master suite. Top schls. Offered at $979,000 Offered at $997,000 Offered at $998,000 Offered at $1,099,000 Joan Evans ORINDA MORAGA MORAGA LAFAYETTE Linda S Friedman Marianne Greene Pamela Halloran Dexter Honens II

New Listing New Price New Listing New Listing Debbie Johnston 675 Carroll Drive 3363 St. Mary's Road 1825 St. Andrews Drive 3376 Ridge Road Hal Kaufman Updated 3bd/2ba thruout, walk to town, schools, Classic ranch on prem lot set back from road. Near Updated Sequoyah in MCC with 4bds/2.5ba. Affordable 4bd detached hm in popular Trail trails, parks & more. Pvt .31 ac w/attractive Laf/Moraga trail. Great oppty for Laf schools. Nice Spacious kitchen/family room combo. French neighborhood surrounded by heritage oaks - truly a Margot Kaufman landscaping, grass play area, veggie gardens. Hdwd outdoor spaces + pool. LR w/frplc & vaulted beam doors open to courtyard, plenty of storage, striking beautiful setting. Tons of recent improvements, walk flrs, dual panes, crown moldings, more. ceiling. Granite counters in kitchen. views. to town/trail/schools. Susan Zeh Layng Offered at $699,000 Offered at $749,000 Offered at $979,000 Offered at $649,000 Art Lehman LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE Charles Levine April Matthews Karen Murphy Ben Olsen

New Listing New Listing New Listing New Listing Sue Olsen 502 Silverado Drive 3286 Sweet Drive 3272 Woodview Drive 3217 Sharon Court Kurt Piper Remod 3bd/2ba Burton Valley rancher with Lovely large home, flexible floor plan, updated Spacious 4bd/3ba home on sprawling .37 ac lot Rebuilt from foundation up in 2005-2006. 4bd/3ba "Pottery Barn" charm hdwd flrs, new bathrooms, throughout, granite kitchen. Sweeping views, 2 w/beautiful lawns in Burton Valley. Terrific views & 2367 sf home nr desirable Burton Valley. Lg open Tara Rochlin new windows, new roof & much more. 1850 sf master bedrooms plus 2 more bedrooms & 4 baths privacy, gleaming hdwd flrs, lovely kitchen & huge great room w/bamboo floors & high ceilings, beaut on .75 acre lot. in Burton Valley. family rm or use as possible full in-law! mstr suite, lovely level yard with pool & play area. Judy Schoenrock Offered at $829,000 Offered at $917,000 Offered at $949,000 Call agent for price Ann Sharf LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE Steve Smith Jeff Snell Lynda Snell Clark Thompson New Price New Price New Listing New Listing Ignacio Vega 855 Mt. View Drive 8 Hawks Hill Court 3829 Happy Valley Road 4145 Canyon Road Sophisticated design comes together boldly w/the Huge price reduction! Absolutely stunning pano Rare oppty to own 2.33 ac lvl estate in Happy Valley! The Lamorinda Lifestyle at its finest! Gated 6 Terri Bates Walker finest materials in this fully renovated 4bd/3ba hm vus of Mt. Diablo, hills & Carquinez. Blt in 2006 Pvt gated property w/tennis ct, pool, lawn, down long bedroom, 4 full bath, 3 half bath estate in Happy Ann Ward ready for holiday occupancy! Elegant yet w/master suite, LR/DR/FR, kitchen on main lvl, 3 driveway to secluded 4bd/4ba 4007 sf home filled Valley is truly one-of-a-kind! comfortable, lovely pvt setting w/views. more bdrms & 2nd fam rm dwnstrs. Wine room too! w/marvelous detail. Incl Art Deco movie theater! www.4145CanyonRd.com. Dan Weil Offered at $1,295,000 Offered at $1,458,000 Offered at $2,950,000 Offered at $2,950,000 Margaret Zucker Visit www.villageassociates.com to see our weekly online previews updated every Wednesday and Friday by noon. Click on Sunday Open House Friday after 5 PM for Open House listings

93 Moraga Way, Suite 103 Orinda, CA 94563 ASSOCIATES (925) 254-0505 or 1-866-856-VARE REAL ESTATE