VOLUME XLIX, NUMBER 17 Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING DUBLIN • LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012 Panel Hears That Open Facilities Open Up Learners By Ron McNicoll Steve Goodman of LPA, Inc., Robinson said that divergent many uses they could find for do express wonder and look at The Pleasanton Unified School kicked off the discussion by thinking is crucial to future suc- a paper clip. People commonly things from any angle. They District’s Facilities Master Plan showing part of a talk by Sir Ken cess for educating the workforce came up with 10 or 15 uses. did not put any limit on the way Committee (FMPC) looked at Robinson, which emphasized the of the 21st century. Such thinking However, people at the genius they thought about the problem. a variety of newly designed op- value of divergent thinking. is not the same as creativity, but it level came up with more than Paper clips that are 6 feet tall Find Out What's tions for classroom space and (The talk, illustrated in rapid- forms the basis for it. Divergent 200 uses. are fine, and so are those made talked about how they might hand, comic-strip style anima- thinking looks at a problem from Some 1500 kindergartners of rubber. Happening meet future program needs. tion, is available on Robinson’s many different perspectives and were asked the same question. The same kindergartners were Check Out Section A The panel met April 19 at web site, http://sirkenrobinson. comes up with a variety of solu- Some 98 percent of them came tested five and 10 years later. Section A is filled with in- school district headquarters with com/skr/watch. Scroll down to tions, he explained. up with more than 200 uses. They Most lost their genius perfor- formation about arts, people, most of its 28 members present. the RSA-Animate — Changing He provided an example of were geniuses, said Robinson. mance. The reason is that they entertainment and special events. Facilitators Jim Kisel and Education Paradigms video.) a study that asked people how Kids have minds that really (See FACILITIES, page 10) There are education stories, a variety of features, and the arts and entertainment and bulletin board. Council Told to Be Careful Of Brown Act Violations When Using Social Media Livermore City Council- two policies. One would deal members considered a discus- with the city sponsored website; sion concerning the use of social the other with outside sites. She media. said that if it is permissible to The council came to a basic discuss an issue one-on-one with Pleasanton Joins conclusion concerning on-line someone at a coffee shop, why comments. The focus will be on wouldn’t the same be true of an Hunger Walk the official city website, where electronic conversation. She said Pleasanton joins ten other they would speak with one voice. she would not discuss issues that Bay Area communities to fight When it comes to off-city web- would come to the council or hunger at home and around the sites, City Manager Marc Robert might alter public safety. “It is world in the Bay Area Hunger said, “Follow the law. There are not appropriate to have a policy Walk over the weekend of April Brown Act and due process is- for external sites.” 28 and 29. sues that arise. Some may not be Councilmember Stewart Gary The Pleasanton-Tri-Valley obvious.” said, “It is possible to engage Crop Hunger Walk, hosted by The social media discussion and discuss with people. The the Catholic Community of included guidelines for interact- trouble with electronics is that Pleasanton and open to all walk- ing with the public on both the once something is published, ers, leaves from the parking lot city website and other sites. The there is nothing to prevent the of St. Elizabeth Seton Church Brown Act prohibits discussion four other councilmembers from on Saturday, April 28 at 9:30 about items that would be coming reading it.” a.m. Participants can register to the council outside of a noticed Mayor John Marchand added, to walk alone, in a group, or as public hearing. Blogging was one “Electronic communication is part of a team. The church is A scene from the Koopmann ranch. concern. If one councilmember instant. It is not possible to de- located at 4001 Stoneridge Drive were to post an opinion about an fend against personal attacks on in Pleasanton. Registration gets issue and other councilmembers blogsites. Since we can’t, people underway at 9:00 a.m. on the day read it, that would constitute a think what is being said is true. A of the walk. Ranchers Instrumental in serial meeting, a violation of the discussion at a coffee shop does The three mile route heads Brown Act. not result in immediate public west on Stoneridge Drive, con- Councilmember Laureen dialog.” necting to West Las Positas and, Preserving Endangered Species Turner argued there need to be (See SOCIAL MEDIA, page 4) after taking a right on Hacienda Drive loops back to the church. By Carol Graham practices that earned the Koop- they purchased the land in 1918. The suggested individual dona- The rolling hills of the Koop- manns The Leopold Conserva- The 850-acre Sunol ranch sits Zone 7 Continues Path to Independence tion is $25. However, participants mann Ranch rise up like sentinels tion Award for 2011. between Interstate 680, Highway By Ron McNicoll calendar year budget. Staff will may register for as little as $5. - breathtaking, solid, alive. Following a lunch and pre- 84 and Pleasanton’s Callippe Zone 7 Water Agency contin- accomplish the task by preparing Every dollar raised for the On April 20th, a diverse group sentation in the rustic barn, Golf Course. ues to take steps to separate from a transitional 18-month budget, CROP Hunger walk will be of visitors with backgrounds in Tim Koopmann (pronounced “Rangelands are vital to con- Alameda County and become an and then switching to a calendar partially matched this year. The agriculture, government, aca- Cope-man) led the 11-vehicle, servation and ecosystem services, independent agency. year budget, beginning Jan. 1, Feinstein Foundation will divide demia, industry and non-profit 80-visitor caravan over terrain and improve the quality of life for The board at its meeting April 2013. $1 million among hunger fighting organizations came together to that revealed stock ponds, centu- all Californians,” said University 18 authorized staff to break away The planned Zone 7 separa- events during March and April, tour the scenic rangelands and ries-old oaks, and the red angus of California, Berkeley Profes- from the county’s fiscal year tion from the county allows the so the more funds raised, the learn about the stewardship cattle the family have raised since (See RANCHERS, page 10) budget overlap with the Zone 7 (See ZONE 7, page 5) more will be received to benefit Open Heart Kitchen and global hunger relief agencies. Open Heart Kitchen is the only hot Council OKs High Density Livermore High School Baseball Players meal program of its kind in the Tri-Valley area. The program Housing in Hacienda Partner with Challenger Baseball Team feeds the hungry in five locations By Patricia Koning in Pleasanton, Livermore, and The Pleasanton City Council erties, a national affordable Last Saturday was a perfect Dublin, and all are welcome. approved its first transit oriented housing developer that uses non- day for a game of a baseball. At To register and/or make development (TOD) projects union labor. the Dublin Sports Park, the Liver- a donation, please vis- last week. Both councilmembers and more High School (LHS) junior it www.churchworld The vote was unanimous. union leaders said that talks varsity baseball team partnered service.org/site/TR/ There was no opposition to aimed at coming to an agreement with the Livermore American 2012SpringCROP the two Hacienda Business Park with BRE over mixing union and Little League (LALL) Challenger HungerWalk/TR-Spring2012?fr_ projects from the overflow crowd non-union labor had failed. baseball team for some fun in id=14410&pg=entry. that filled the council chambers. The approval of the hous- the sun. For more information, The only controversy arose over ing will help the city to meet “This was an incredible op- email socialjustice@catholicsof who would build the high den- court-approved requirements to portunity for our players,” says pleasanton.org, or call (925) sity housing, union or non-union provide more affordable housing Gabe Gutierrez, coach of the 890-4343. labor. in town. The projects also help LHS junior varsity baseball team. The developer is BRE Prop- (See HOUSING, page 4) “We at the LHS baseball program are really trying to build the boys’ character and instill a sense of responsibility not only with being Lung Group Says Air Better, But part of the team but with their community as well.” Federal Act Needs Defending Established by Little League in 1989, the Challenger Divi- By Ron McNicoll The CAPCOA report offered sion enables boys and girls with The American Lung Associa- data summaries of the state’s physical and mental challenges to tion’s (ALA) annual report on the air basins. It showed very few enjoy the game of baseball. Last State of the Air shows improve- violation days in the Bay Area year, Gina Marcon-Hermann ment in air quality in California, for either ozone or particulate founded the LALL Challenger but says there is still a long way matter (PM), the tiny particles team and is the coach. Her daugh- to go to meet federal standards. of pollution, sometimes unseen, ter Angelina plays on the team. Further, there are congressio- because they are so small The “Challenger baseball is re- nal attacks on the Clean Air Act. big offenders in air quality were ally about socializing and having The attacks should be resisted by in southern California and the fun,” she explains. “The players citizens and clean-air advocates, Central Valley. make new friends with other spe- said ALA officials. That tallies with the ALA cial needs kids and the buddies. The report appears one week report, which shows the biggest They just love the attention.” Rabbit Adoption after CAPCOA, an association of offenders in ozone pollution are The “buddies” are a special feature of Challenger baseball. in southern California and the Photo - Doug Jorgensen Hi. My name is Duke. I’m young, the state’s 35 air quality manage- Usually little leaguers, the bud- playful, smart, independent ment districts, released its own Central Valley. Vehicular traffic "Buddies" pictured are Kyle Schloming (from left), Challenger (See CHALLENGER, page 5) and cute! I’m a typical house report on statewide air quality. (See AIR QUALITY, page 4) player Josh Perry, and Brody Martinez. rabbit. To meet me and my siblings, join us this Saturday PET OF THE WEEK from 12-3 pm at the Adoption Inside Hello! My name is Lucy. I am a 2 year old female spayed, Manx. That Event at the Dublin Petco, means I was born with no tail. I’m pretty laid back and enjoy sleeping and lounging around in a comfy cat bed. My markings are stunning. I 11976 Dublin Blvd., Dublin. Section A: Editorial...... 4 was surrendered to the local county animal shelter in January when my EBRR is looking for people to Art & Entertainment...... 8 Mailbox...... 4 owners could no longer care for me. I sure do miss being in a home. adopt, volunteer or foster.. For Come and meet me. I’d love to get to know you. For more information, more info, call 925-519-1723, Bulletin Board...... 11 Roundup...... 3 call 925-426-8656 or go to www.valleyhumane.org or www.facebook. or email ebrabbit@comcast. Milestones ...... 10 & 12 Short Notes...... 9 com/ValleyHumaneSociety to see other adoptable dogs and cats. net. Visit www.eastbayrabbit. Valley Humane Society is located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Front Section: petfinder.com to see more pet Sports...... 6 Open Tues. & Wed. 9AM-2PM, Thurs. & Frid. 12-7pm, Sat. 10-4pm, and profiles. Classifieds...... 11 Obituaries...... 9 Sun. 12-4pm. Photo by David Smith

PAGE 2 - The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012

SHARP INCREASE Research teams will visit 25 Scientists point out that weather is not climate, but more fre- IN MEASLES glaciers twice a year and collect quent weather extremes are predicted by established climate models The U.S. eliminated measles satellite measurements. Rising to accompany a continued rise in global temperatures. as an active disease more than temperatures have generally The public seems to have gotten that message first hand, the a decade ago, meaning vaccina- been causing glaciers to recede, survey found. 82 percent of those responding to the survey said tions and other public health but some recent studies have that they had experienced at least one kind of extreme weather or measures stopped its year- found specific areas where that natural disaster during the past year. For example, 60 percent expe- around epidemic transmission does not appear to be the case. rienced extreme winds, 42 percent experienced extreme heat waves, from person to person. Some For example, a study published and 26 percent extreme snowstorms. U.S. doctors have never seen last week in Nature Geoscience The survey had a margin of error of 3 percentage points. a case. International vaccina- found that glaciers in the central Whether timing affected its outcome is not clear. It was conducted tion campaigns have reduced Karakorum mountain range have last month, a time when Americans experienced more than 15,000 measles around the world, but it continues to be a serious illness become slightly more massive over the past decade. It is not clear record warm temperatures and were exposed to news coverage of in some regions, killing tens of thousands per year in sub-Saharan why. Earlier this year, the German-U.S. GRACE satellites found the strange weather. Africa alone. less melting than expected in the high mountains of Asia (see Sci- The public’s climate fears have risen and fallen over the years, as Now, the U.S. is experiencing a spike in measles cases, appar- ence Matters, Feb. 16.) indicated in more general surveys like those by the Gallup orga- ently as a result of exposure during travel. The numbers are still The recent Karakorum study is also based on space measure- nization. The percentage of Americans concerned about climate small compared with influenza and many other diseases, with 222 ments, from the Space Shuttle in 2000 and the French SPOT satel- declined from 66 percent just before the recession to 51 percent last reported cases in 31 states last year, according to the U.S. Centers lite in 2008. Analysis was done by a group from the University of year, when economic issues dominated, according to Gallup. But for Disease Control and Prevention. That represents more than a Grenoble in France. Team leader Julie Gardelle said that while it the percentage worried about climate rose again to 55 percent in a threefold increase from the more typical 60 cases per year seen in is clear that the Karakorum glaciers are becoming more massive, it Gallup survey conducted last month, the New York Times reported. the preceding decade. is not clear why or whether the trend will continue. “We have no Some observers considered the Yale-George Mason survey the Although many adults may remember it as a slightly humorous idea what’s behind the odd behavior of these glaciers, or when it most thorough to date focusing specifically on views of climate childhood experience involving a spotty face and boring confine- started,” she said. change. Its questions will be asked again in the future, giving poll- ment at home, measles is a very dangerous disease. One in every Resolving such questions is the purpose of the Third Pole study ing experts the opportunity to discover trends in the way personal three U.S. cases had to be hospitalized last year, according to Anne of 25 representative glaciers. There are many unknowns. Factors experience with weather extremes continues to shape public opin- Schuchat, director of the CDC’s National Center for Immunization affecting the spread and thickness of glaciers range from the shape ion. and Respiratory Diseases. of the underlying terrain to the color of surface dust, from changing Measles is caused by a respiratory virus that can lead to pneu- wind and precipitation patterns to shifting temperature variations monia, bronchitis and encephalitis. It kills one to three children that occur by season and by time of day. Even methods for measur- out of every thousand infected, even with good medical treatment. ing the depth of snow at high elevations need to be developed and For certain groups, such as seriously malnourished children verified, according to Da Quing Yang, a hydrologist from Environ- in regions with poor medical care, the disease can be far more ment Canada who will participate in the research. deadly, killing nearly one in three. The studies should help verify or refine model predictions that Because it is extremely infectious, its appearance in a commu- climate change is bringing faster warming at higher elevations, nity forces a strong (and expensive) public health response. according to Rutgers climatologist Imtiaz Rangwala. The ability Some of the rise in incidence in the U.S. can be traced to choic- to make on-site observations will help close “a major knowledge es made by families not to vaccinate, Shuchat said. U.S. immuni- gap in mountain research, especially at a time when high-elevation zation rates are generally high, at 90 percent, “however, measles is observatory stations elsewhere are at risk of being closed down due good at finding those who aren’t protected,” she said. Nearly 200 to lack of funding,” he said. of the U.S. measles patients last year either had not been vacci- nated or had an undetermined vaccination status, she said. CHANGING VIEW OF CLIMATE CHANGE Most of the rise – 200 of the 222 cases — could be traced to A large majority of Americans now believe that climate change measles imported from abroad, Schuchat said. For example, 56 is making bad weather worse and creating weather disasters more cases were U.S. citizens returning from overseas travel to coun- often, according to a survey published earlier this month by Yale tries where vaccination rates are significantly lower. and George Mason Universities. Even European countries commonly have lower measles vac- Personal experience and the drumbeat of news about extreme cination rates than does the U.S. Schuchat urges those planning weather seem to have altered the common perception of climate travel abroad this summer to make sure vaccinations are up to change from something vague that might occur elsewhere in the date. world to something that has impacted us at home and is likely to again, according to Anthony Leiserowitz, director of Yale’s Project CLIMATE AND TIBETAN GLACIERS on Climate Change Communication. An extended international study of glaciers in the mountains in 2011 saw “a record breaking 14 weather and climate disasters and around Tibet is scheduled to begin later this year to determine that each caused $1 billion or more in damages . . . along with in- how climate change may be affecting ice mass in a region some- calculable loss of human life,” Leiserowitz wrote in an introduction times called the Third Pole. Melting ice from the region’s 46,000 to the survey. “It just seems to be one disaster after another after glaciers provides water for a region of central and south Asia another.” where more than 1 billion people live.

Police to Participate in Prescription Drug Take Back According to the 2010 Na- The services are free and Back Program. The program al- tional Survey on Drug Use and anonymous, no questions asked. lows the public the opportunity Health, more Americans cur- Participants may dispose of to prevent pill abuse and theft by rently abuse prescription drugs medication in its original con- ridding their homes of potentially than those using cocaine, hallu- tainer or by removing the medi- dangerous expired, unused, and cinogens, and heroin combined. cation from its container and unwanted prescription drugs. Studies show that a majority of disposing of it directly into the The event takes place fiom 10 abused prescription drugs are disposal box. If an original con- a.m. to 2 p.m. in the lobby of the obtained fiom family and fiends, tainer is submitted, the individual Pleasanton Police Department at including fiom the home medi- should remove any identifying 4833 Bernal Avenue. The drop- cine cabinet. information from the prescription off is fiee and anonymous, with Local police departments are hosting events to help dispose label. All solid dosage pharma- no questions asked. of the drugs. ceutical products and liquids During the last three Take- in consumer containers may be Back Events, nearly one million dropped. Intra-venous solutions, pounds of prescription drugs Livermore injectibles and syringes will not were turned in at more than The Livermore Police De- be accepted due to the potential 5300 sites operated by the DEA’s partment will be participating in hazard posed by blood-borne state and local law enforcement a nationwide prescription drug pathogens. partners. take back event on April 28 from The event will be held at the Representatives from Moth- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. The Livermore Livermore Police Department, ers with a Purpose will be at the Police Department is partnering 1110 S. Livermore Avenue. event to assist and share relevant with the Drug Enforcement Ad- information with the public. ministration (DEA) to give the For more information about public an opportunity to prevent Pleasanton On Saturday April 28, the the April 28 Drug Take Back pill abuse and theft by ridding Pleasanton Police Department program in Pleasanton, please their homes of potentially dan- will partner with the Drug En- contact Sergeant Penelope Tamm gerous expired, unused, and forcement Administration PEA) at 925.93 1.5100. unwanted prescription drugs. for the fourth annual Drug Take The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012 - PAGE 3

Poll Workers Needed ments and started a website http://bartforamerica. Bilingual Poll Workers are needed for the June com/ calling for BART to support American 5, 2012 Presidential Primary Election to work at manufacturing. the polls in Alameda County. Poll workers earn between $110 and $180. Alston Named Director Bilingual Poll Workers must be fluent in Eng- Frances Alston has been selected as the direc- lish & Chinese, English & Spanish, English & tor for Environmental Safety and Health (ES&H) Filipino/Tagalog or English & Vietnamese. They at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Di- must also be registered voters and attend a manda- rector Parney Albright an- tory training session prior to Election Day. nounced last week. Alston’s Also needed are regular poll workers to help appointment is effective with the June 5, 2012 Presidential Primary Elec- May 14. tion. As the Lab’s new ES&H Poll workers earn between $110 and $180 for director, Alston will report their service. They must be a registered voter to Deputy Director Tom and attend a mandatory training class prior to Gioconda and serve as a Election Day. member of the Laboratory’s High school students (16 years of age or older) senior management team. are also eligible to work as poll workers through She comes to LLNL from Alameda County’s Student Poll Worker Program. the U.S. Department of Students must be in good academic standing, re- Energy’s (DOE) East Ten- ceive faculty permission and attend a mandatory nessee Technology Park in Oak Ridge, where training prior to Election Day. she served as the Environmental Safety, Health and Quality deputy manager. Girl Scouts were among those who honored Earth Day with special projects. Livermore Daisy Visit http://www.acgov.org/rov/workers.htm Troop 30321 met early Sunday morning to help beautify downtown Livermore on Earth Day. Thanks for more information and to fill out an applica- Alston brings to her new position extensive tion or contact the Registrar of Voters office at experience developing, implementing and man- to the support of The City of Livermore maintence worker, Cathy, troop leader and parents, over (510) 272-6971. aging ES&H programs for the DOE. The founda- 100 annuals were planted under the holiday Christmas Tree. Included in the photo are Molly, tion of her career is built on 24 years at DOE’s Tatyahna, Mikayla, Anna, Brooklyn, and Hayley (middle row); Clara,Veda, and Grace (bottom row); Funding for Rail Projects Savannah River site where she implemented and Troop Leader BaBette and maintenance worker, Cathy (top row). Commuter, urban and intercity rail projects led ES&H programs. will be eligible to receive more than half a billion “Throughout her career with parent company, dollars in bond money for infrastructure improve- which includes international assignments, Fran- ments as a result of a bill passed by the Senate ces has delivered superior performance in com- Committee on Transportation and Housing on a plex situations, involving multiple stakeholders,” Dublin Chooses, 'splatter' Logo for Festival vote of 6-3. Gioconda said. “She has dealt effectively with Sbranti suggested that staff SB 1189, by Senator Loni Hancock (D- challenging safety, operational, regulatory and The Dublin City Council verse cuisine of the region. There start to use regular food and wine Oakland), authorizes the distribution of $523.4 environmental issues and comes with outstanding approved a logo for its food, will be art and music. blogs to get chatter started about million for intercity and commuter rail lines and credentials and professional affiliations.” wine and art event planned for Staff described the events, the event. urban rail systems. Alston is a Certified Hazards Material Man- September 22. “Those attending will experi- “California rail systems carry millions of pas- ager (CHMM) and Professional Engineering The council chose the theme, ence culinary creations and fine sengers a year, reducing pollution and gasoline Manager (PEM). She earned a Ph.D. in industrial “splatter,” not your ordinary arts as the entertainment. This is consumption as well as taking cars off the roads. and system engineering and a MSE degree in en- food, wine, and art festival, over not an ordinary festival. There My bill will help upgrade local rail systems as gineering management, both from the University “Dublin Crush.” will be sculptural food elements, well as create jobs across the state,” Senator of Alabama. The vote was unanimous with artworks built on site and an op- Hancock said. “I am honored to have been selected for Kasie Hildenbrand absent. portunity for audience participa- The money will come from Proposition 1A, this position and look forward to working with Staff described “splatter” is tion. “ the Safe, Reliable High-Speed Passenger Train Lawrence Livermore’s management team,” a connotation of fun. “It con- The event will conclude with Bond Act, approved by voters in November 2008. Alston said. veys everything without being a fireworks show to celebrate The Bond includes money that the Legislature Alston succeeds Reggie Gaylord, who had specific.” Dublin’s All American City must appropriate to local and regional rail projects served as acting director since previous ES&H The logo was well received status. that provide direct connectivity to the proposed Director Steve Wuthrich left LLNL for another during testing. Participants saw Sbranti stated, “The event high-speed train system and its facilities. assignment with parent company Bechtel Sys- it as urban and forward think- concept is very inventive. It will tems and Infrastructure Inc. ing, raising curiosity about the make it standout. The logo fires Thorne Named to Board event. the imagination.” Pleasanton City Councilmember Jerry Thorne Youths Arrested for Vandalisms Councilmember Ken Hart has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Two Pleasanton boys, ages 14 and 15, were stated, “I like crush. However, I the League of California Cities. The 46-member arrested on April 19 in connection with the mul- don’t want this to be considered panel is responsible for the tiple vandalisms to tires on parked cars. During to be only a Dublin event. Splat- overall supervision and di- interrogations, both boys admitted to slashing the ter is a better marketing tool.” rection of the League which tires on dozens of cars in Pleasanton. Follow- Other councilmembers, Don works to expand and protect ing the interviews, the teens were processed and Biddle and Eric Swalwell, said local control for California released to their respective parents. A third youth they liked both, but preferred cities. suspected of being involved has been named and splatter. Mayor Tim Sbranti sug- “I am very honored to is expected to be interviewed soon as the investi- gested that Dublin Crush could have been selected for this gation is ongoing. The case will be filed with the be used for some other event. pivotal position, and look Alameda County Juvenile Probation Department The festival will be held at forward to working with my and felony vandalism charges are expected to be Emerald Glen Park. The idea is peers throughout the State to sought for all three boys. to showcase outstanding wines continue the strong representation of our region from the area along with the di- in the effort to retain control of local issues at the Supervisor Resigns local level,” said Thorne. Alameda County Supervisor Nadia Lockyer Thorne serves as the board representative said Friday she was resigning from office to for the East Bay Division, where he served as recover from her addiction and to care for her President in 2009. Founded in 1948, the League’s 8-year-old son. East Bay Division is comprised of the 33 cities in The resignation follows weeks of revela- Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. tions about her affair with a methamphetamine addict. Buy American She writes that she feels she could not effec- Bay Area Representatives John Garamendi, tively serve her constituents while “trudging the Mike Thompson, Lynn Woolsey, Anna Eshoo, waters of early recovery from addiction and the and Barbara Lee, all Democrats, have sent a let- aftermath of interpersonal violence.” ter to BART encouraging them to “give top tier Her colleagues on the board of supervisors consideration” to bids that use the highest percent issued the following statement,”In the nearly 16 of American manufactured content for their new months since she took office, we have grown to fleet of rail cars. appreciate Nadia’s dedication to the people of “Our tax dollars for transportation projects District 2 and her passion for Alameda County. should go toward manufacturing American equip- We respect Nadia’s decision to place her own ment and employing American workers – that’s health and the well-being of her child and her just common sense,” said Congressman John family before her career as a County supervi- Garamendi. “When we Make It In America, we sor.” create jobs throughout the entire economy – and Supervisor Lockyer’s resignation requires creating jobs must be our top priority.” formal acceptance by the Board of Supervisors. The BlueGreen Alliance, a coalition of 12 of The issue was on the Tues., April 24 agenda. It the country’s largest unions and environmental was approved by supervisors, who will have 90 organizations has begun airing radio advertise- days to appoint a successor to Lockyer.

Bone Marrow Drive for Janet Liang ValleyCare Health System 1, the event will be from 10 a.m. national development studies at will hold a bone marrow drive in to 2 p.m. at the ValleyCare Medi- UCLA. support of Janet Liang on Mon., cal Center, Cafeteria Conference After undergoing several ag- April 30 and Tues., May 1. Room 3, 5575 W. Las Positas gressive rounds of chemotherapy, VMC is work with Brett Drive, Pleasanton. Janet achieved full remission in Benzer of Thriving Lives on the This drive is open to Valley- 2010. In December 2011, doctors drive, which will be held at both Care employees as well as the informed her cancer has returned. locations. general public. She now has until June to find a The Monday drive will be In 2009, Janet Liang, a Pleas- perfect marrow match — her best from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Valley anton resident, was diagnosed option for a full recovery. Memorial Center, 1111 E. Stan- with acute lymphoblastic leu- ley Blvd., Livermore. On May kemia while majoring in inter- PAGE 4 - The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012 Swalwell Says Stark’s Statement Not an Apology EDITORIAL The letter says that Stark’s San Francisco political consul- Rep. Pete Stark (D) has issued Swalwell said that his reputation a statement saying he regrets is very important. He said, “For comments were “blatantly false tant employed by Stark’s cam- 21st Century Learning that he “misspoke” in statements him to impugn my character like and inconsistent with the norm paign, resulted in the e-mailed The Pleasanton Unified School District is considering about one of his primary election that, I take very seriously.” of civil rhetoric used by political statement that Stark issued to opponents, Eric Swalwell, also a Swalwell stated, “I wouldn’t opponents.” other newspapers. Two other a way to provide education to prepare students for 21st Democrat. call what he said to a newspaper The letter urges Stark to “con- attempts via e-mail to obtain a century jobs. Stark in a debate in Hay- an apology. It’s a non-apology. duct a campaign on the facts and phone interview with Stark drew The Facilities Master Plan Committee was told last ward on April 10 reportedly He said he misspoke. It was a flat- the needs of the district.” no reply. week that the old factory system in education, with its said that Swalwell took more out lie, and a malicious lie.” The Independent’s research The statement sent out by rigid process and lecture-centered information, might than $100,000 in “ bribes” from Swalwell said that Stark re- of Swalwell’s campaign contri- Tourk states, “I misspoke the a developer who was active in peated the statement several butions show that he took in a other evening when I made al- work for the old economy with factories stamping out Dublin. times during the forum, which total of $32,886 in cash in the legations against my opponent goods on an assembly line, but it won’t work in the new The statements have led Swal- was sponsored by the League of 2010 campaign. The Lin family for taking bribes and for that I economy, with its continuing obsolescence of goods, well to hire an attorney special- Women Voters. contributed $200. An associate of apologize. “ procedures and ideas. izing in libel law. The congres- Two members of the Tri-Val- the Lins, James Tong of Charter Stark goes on to say that The new economy is collaborative. To encourage col- sional candidate, who is a Dublin ley Democratic Club, president Properties, contributed $500. Swalwell was a consistent vote City Councilmember, told The Ellis Goldberg and Jim Kohnen, The Independent’s efforts to for other developers, but does laboration, classrooms would be reconfigured. Some Independent this week that he is said that they were among the make an appointment to talk to not name them. He makes claims schools are already moving forward with the idea. For proceeding with court action. estimated 200 people who were Stark have been unsuccessful. that sound negative about those example, at a New Technology High School in Napa, Swalwell is an assistant dis- at the forum. They confirmed Stark’s Washington office developers, but lists no proof, or there are common areas, almost like an internet cafe, trict attorney in Alameda County. Stark’s comments to The Inde- representative said that she can- any sources to check as a refer- with eight classrooms surrounding the space. There are He said that when he presents a pendent. not leave him a message for the ence. case, he must have evidence to The Democratic Club voted story, because campaign-related Swalwell said he has not some movable tables and chairs, and some fixed places back it up. Stark offered no evi- on April 16 “by a strong margin” matters cannot be channeled heard directly from Stark, but for technology. dence to back up his statements. to send Stark a letter concerning through the district office. saw only the statement quoted After the slide show, one committee member said Moreover, as a prosecutor, his behavior, said Goldberg. One call to Alex Tourk, the in newspapers. that collaboration is extremely important in learning. The more that people work together in small groups, the more comfortable they are, and the more creative they AIR QUALITY become. They help each other. (continued from page one) unhealthy for sensitive groups, to improve air quality. its job. It could be permanent and Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi pointed out, however, in the summer is the primary such as asthma sufferers. There Lisa Fasano, communications inherited,” said Nadeau. cause for violation of standards were two red days, from 0.096 director for the Bay Area Air Parent Lydia Rojas, who lives that collaboration takes time; it does not happen over- in southern California, said that night. on ozone. to 0.115, which are considered Quality Management District PM violations come from unhealthy for everyone. (BAAQMD) said, “The district she “was the kid who had to stay A survey conducted in Pleasanton showed support for industry, diesel engines and The county received a "C" continues to make good progress indoors” during smoggy days, the idea to switch from the traditional teacher-focused burning wood in fireplaces, as grade for 24-hour PM viola- on stationary sources such as gas because she had asthma. Her class, with the students facing that teacher, to a student- well as fires in nature, such as tions with six orange days, and stations and power plants.” 15-year-old daughter died from forest fires. a passing grade (on a pass/fail However, more attention an asthma attack. “If you can’t focused classroom, where students work collaboratively breathe, you die,” she said. on projects, and have the ability to circulate freely in doing The first seven and nine of scale) for its annual PM perfor- needs to be paid to PM. There the top 10 ozone violation cit- mance, which is determined on a are 1.3 million fireplaces in the Janice Nolan, assistant vice their work. In that atmosphere, students can “brainstorm, ies in the United States are in weighted scale, as are the other Bay Area. With a winter such president of the ALA on national design, create, explore and showcase their learning.” the Central Valley and southern grades. as the recent one, the pollution policy advocacy, said that 127 Good for the Pleasanton School District for thinking California. The Los Angeles- GETTING BETTER, is trapped under a high pressure million Americans live in coun- out of the box. Riverside-Long Beach area leads BUT NOT ENOUGH area. “It makes it extremely ties that received a "F" on the During a conference call with unhealthy immediately, not over report. “That’s four in 10 of us,” the list. In year-round recording of news media April 24, Lung Asso- time. It’s important to focus on she said. Further, only 900 of the PM, the top five counties are in ciation officials discussed the re- what people do every day,” said nation’s 3000 counties monitor California, including four Central port. Jane Warner, president and Fasano. air quality. Valley counties, led by Bakers- CEO of ALA in California, said Dr. Kari Nadeau, a Stanford California has taken steps field. Outside the Central Valley, that despite the poor numbers in associate professor who works beyond other states. That has Los Angeles is in third place for parts of the state, overall there for the ALA as a researcher, said led the way in helping the nation SOCIAL MEDIA understand what it is to clean up (continued from page one) year-round PM. They all received has been a “tremendous effort” to that studies have shown that PM to recognize there are boundar- an "F" grade. protect the federal Clean Air Act can have a serious effect, even pollution. The United States has Councilmember Doug Horner ies in communications to avoid Alameda County was given against attacks in Congress. with short-term exposure, includ- made “extraordinary progress said that councilmembers should serial meetings and Brown Act an "F" grade for high ozone Warner appealed to “citizens ing as little as one hour. over 13 years, but a few places days in 2008-10, the three-year and advocates all over the nation One week of exposure can got worse,” said Nolan. not foster on-line debate. Debates violations. Discussion of issues “Worst of all, there are people should only take place after a is supposed to be conducted in a period covered by the ALA data to help us. Write to (Congress) to elevate heart risk. At the 2.5 records for the report. The county protect the Clean Air Act.” micron measurement level, PM in Congress working hard to notice in a meeting that is tele- noticed, public meeting. block progress. They don’t quite vised. Gary suggested that the city showed 14 violation days at the Warner also gave a pat on the can enter the blood. “There are back to the efforts of air quality genetic changes in immune cells get it that particulate matter is Assistant City Manager Troy start an on-line blog. A question orange level, which is 0.076 to 0.096 parts per million (ppm). management districts throughout in children. Inhaling (polluted) bad. We need to clean it up,” Brown mentioned that in Palo would be posted. People could the state for their work in helping air prevents the body from doing said Nolan. Alto, the council and public post feedback. Only one reply That level is considered to be interacted by tweeting during a would be allowed per person live meeting. and a name would have to be HOUSING Gary felt that was inappropri- included. (continued from page one) ate. “There are rules governing Turner declared, “Some peo- the city to address the terms of a City Manager Nelson Fialho non-union for the past 22 years. subsidies come out of taxpayer public input at a meeting. People ple want to be anonymous. They lawsuit settlement with the state said that the city council could “We know that if we don’t take dollars. Companies have a right come down, put in a card and are should be able to do so.” and Urban Habitat that argued meter development starting in care of our workers they will go to make a profit. Workers have heard. If there are tweets at the Gary said his concern is about Pleasanton wasn’t meeting its the next planning period, which somewhere else.” a right to make a living. There same time, it is not fair to those one person posting numerous responsibility to provide hous- begins in 2014. “We’re catching Both urged the council to ap- needs to be a balance.” who made an effort to come comments under different pseud- ing for lower income residents up now.” prove the projects. That would Councilmember Jerry Thorne down and are waiting to speak onyms in an attempt to give more because it had failed to zone land Labor leaders and non-union give them the opportunity to bid commented, “All workers have during public hearings that coun- weight to the opinion he or she for housing numbers it had been shops weighed in on who would on the contracts. an equal opportunity to work on cilmembers are trying to read supports. assigned by ABAG. The lawsuit build the newly approved hous- Councilmember Sullivan these projects. That means an tweets at the same time.” The council majority agreed overturned the voter approved ing in Hacienda. wondered if there were support open bidding process. The lowest Brown noted that in tweeting that the focus would be on fol- 29,000 unit housing cap. Labor leaders said that wages to add provisions regarding labor bidder should be able to obtain people can hide behind anonym- lowing the law and avoiding Both projects approved last paid by BRE would make it in the conditions of approval. week by the council feature unlikely that workers who build the job.” ity. situations where there may be a “Everyone wants to talk about Mayor Jennifer Hosterman, Marchand said there is a need Brown Act violation mixed use in three to four story the projects could actually live in buildings. One includes 251 resi- the housing. workforce housing. We never talk stated, “I too am concerned about dential units, four live/work units Rob Straker of the Sheetmetal about the workforce. This will the economy and supporting and 5700 square feet of retail Workers stated, “It’s about good likely be a low bid, non union people in finding employment. space. It is located on 8.4 acres local jobs. BRE is insisting that project. We need to start having I don’t believe this is the ap- ‘Mad Cow’ Discovery Is across from the east Pleasanton unions compete with outsiders discussions, to revisit our afford- propriate project for a union-non BART station at the corner of who don’t pay the same wages. able housing policy to take into union agreement. There are other Willow and Owens Drive. The John Dalrymple spoke for consideration how these projects projects that will come forward Said to Pose No Threat second, on 8.1 acres at the corner plumbers, electrical and sheet- are built.” He drew no support that will be more appropriate. Discovery of a dairy cow with of Hacienda Drive and Gibralter metal workers in pointing out that from other councilmembers. Be aware, we live on some of BSE or “mad cow disease” poses tered the human food supply. The Drive, proposes 247 residential wages paid non-union workers However, Councilmember the most expensive land in the units, four live/work units and no threat to the beef industry or beef industry has invested a lot of are $15 to $20 an hour with no Cheryl Cook-Kallio said that world. Because of that, trying to resources in science and technol- about a half acre public park. she was badly disappointed that put together a project like this is consumers, according to industry Fifteen percent of the housing benefits. “This country is losing spokespersons. ogy to improve the surveillance its middle class. This council can BRE and the unions were un- very difficult.” program, which is working,” said will be set aside for low income able to come to an agreement. All of the councilmembers, BSE is the acronym for Bo- renters. approve policies to encourage a vine Spongiform Encephalopa- Darrel Sweet. fair deal. You won’t have the kind “We all want jobs that pay well. including Cindy McGovern, said “Because this incident was Site 1 is surrounded by of- Workers would like to be able to they were pleased with how the thy. fice buildings. Site 2 is across of Pleasanton you want without a The cow was discovered in a detected prior to slaughter, con- middle class.” pay their bills without looking two projects turned out. A Haci- sumers can be confident that the from other housing. The shorter for help from the public. The enda Task Force spent over a year USDA inspection on April 24 at buildings are located opposite the Councilmember Matt Sullivan a rendering plant. The plant, the system set in place to prevent asked what sort of policies could market should drive it. However, developing design guidelines to current homes in a bad economy, the wages are dairy, and their locations were diseased animals from entering Councilmember Cindy Mc- be implemented. be used for TOD in Hacienda not named. the food chain is working,” said Govern was concerned that all of Dalrymple explained there driven low, forcing people to rely Business Park. Karen Sweet, an Altamont Darrel Sweet. the housing could be built in one could be a clause to require a on public services to live. Those rancher and former county re- Tom Talbot, a California vet- year. She wondered if there were certain number of apprentices be sources conservation director, erinarian who is on the National a way to meter construction. on the job. “That is totally legal.” said that there is no danger at all Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Recently approved land re- There could be a requirement that to the Valley. cattle health and well-being com- zonings could add 2200 units to area standard wages be paid. The cow discovered is a dairy mittee, also commented. the city. On the other side of the issue cow. There have been no dairy Talbot said that the animal Brian Dolan Director of Com- were representatives of several cattle herds in the Valley for 20 “was never presented for human munity Development, explained, local businesses who are non- (Opinions voiced in letters Old Library Building years or more, she said. consumption and poses zero risk “We don’t have the ability to union. One owns a painting busi- published in Mailbox are those Pat and Clarence Hoenig limit growth up to our assigned Further, the detection of that to human health. The bottom line ness. “I like to think we are one of of the author and do not neces- Livermore remains the same – all U.S. beef housing numbers during this sarily reflect the opinion of The Recently old corroded water one cow shows that the safe- planning period. It is likely we the good contractors who provide Independent. Letter Policy: The guards in place are working, is safe.” good wages and benefits,” stated pipes in our former Library at the USDA says milk is not af- could receive applications for Independent will not publish said Karen Sweet’s husband, four or five other projects. We David Thibault. anonymous letters, nor will it Civic Center site have destroyed Darrel Sweet, a member of the fected, because it does not trans- Ron Cappilla, president of an estimated 3,000 books stored mit the disease. People can be would be obligated to approve publish letters without names. California Beef Council. them and grant growth manage- Can-Am Plumbing, said he had Abusive letters may be rejected in that old building by the Friends “No part of this animal en- impacted by eating infected parts run a union shop for 18 years and of the Library. What a tragedy! of an animal. ment.” or edited. Frequent letter writers may have publication of their What a shame that the City of letters delayed. Letters should be Livermore with a population of submitted by e-mail to editmail@ 81,000 and growing cannot find i-GATE Receives Excellence in Local Government Award compuserve.com.) the resources to repair and con- The i-GATE Innovation Hub approach to collaboration and port technology businesses Danville, Davis, Pleasanton, vert this building to its planned (iHub) Initiative was awarded the support of high growth technol- through education, mentoring, Fremont, Tracy, Lathrop, San Recession and Recovery new City Council Chambers. Thomas H. Muehlenbeck Award ogy-based startups in the clean access to capital, and network- Ramon, West Sacramento, and Aaron Latkin Furthermore, our City Council for Excellence in Local Govern- transportation, renewable-energy, ing. Alameda County.” Livermore and other city commissions need ment by the Alliance for Innova- and high performance computing • Advocacy and collaboration Over 70 submissions from We are now in the midst of a more than a couple of rickety tion at their 2012 Transforming technologies sectors. among diverse organizations to across the United States and great recession, from which we old trailers to do the city’s busi- Local Government Conference According to a press release, create economic growth and job Canada were received for this may never recover. Our govern- ness. That is an embarrassment held recently in Kansas City, i-GATE achieves its outcomes creation. award, which is presented annu- ment is urging us to continue in itself. MO. through the following three pri- • Academic partnerships that ally to further encourage innova- doing the very same thing that The former city library is a The i-GATE iHub Initiative mary programs: lead to a robust research and de- tion and recognize excellence in got us into this mess in the first very nice looking building in a was recognized for its unique • Business services that sup- velopment environment. local government. place, spend, spend and spend, handy location for Council and “This award demonstrates The Award for Excellence in when we should be saving and Staff members. We all drive by the importance of broad re- Local Government represents investing. Most everything we this vacant civic center build- Publisher: Joan Kinney Seppala gional partnership between local the top annual award from the buy is imported from foreign ing on South Livermore Avenue Associate Publisher: David T. Lowell government, industry, and aca- Alliance for Innovation. Mue- countries, mainly from China. If everyday and wonder when it (INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.) Editor: Janet Armantrout demia,” said Rob White, Chief hlenbeck, for which the award this policy continues after a few will be put to good use. At a Executive Officer of the i-GATE decades China will have acquired minimum, the Livermore City The Independent is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing Company, 2250 First St., Liver- was named, served as the City more, CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Mailed at Periodical Postage Prices at the Livermore Post Office and iHub Initiative. “We are very Manager of Plano, TX from 1987 a stockpile of US Government Council has an obligation to additional entry office: Pleasanton, CA 94566-9998. The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www. independentnews.com to sign up and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The proud to have been recognized to 2011 and was The Innovation Bonds and we will end up with the community to tell us what Independent, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550. for our leadership in conjunc- Groups (now the Alliance for trash bins of plastic scrap and a your intentions are regarding the Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700 tion with our local government huge pile of rags. future of this building. We are during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212. Innovation) Board of Directors’ Editorial information may be submitted by [email protected]. partners of Livermore, Dublin, Chair for 10 years. waiting to hear!

The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012 - PAGE 5 ZONE 7 (continued from page one)

switch in budget years. The bill in Sacramento that In working for Zone 7 in the Directors also heard a report will allow Zone 7 to separate past year, Morrison & Associ- on the progress of the bill in the from the county is SB 1337. ates have created K-12 school Legislature that would allow the It was written by Sen. Mark programs that focused on water- agency to make that separation DeSaulnier, whose new district related science, with appearances from the county. includes all of the Valley. in 325 classrooms totaling 8000 On the budget action, Zone 7 Co-authors are Assembly- students. in the past prepared a preliminary woman Joan Buchanan, who The programs are designed to budget for its water service for now represents Pleasanton and meet state science standards for the last six months of a calendar Dublin, in addition to the dis- the grade levels. A staff report year. They did so because of the trict’s previous Livermore area, says, “Feedback from teachers fiscal year budget employed by and Sen. Loni Hancock, who continues to be positive.” the county, which has had fiscal represented Livermore until re- In community outreach, the control over some aspects of the districting changed boundaries firm supported Zone 7 participa- Zone 7 budget. this year. tion in community events such Then Zone 7 would create (Hancock has new district as the Earth Day Festival in another budget for the entire boundaries, but senators continue Pleasanton, Dublin Pride Week, coming calendar year. That du- to serve their old districts during and home and garden shows at plication cost more, because it the overlap period until the next the fairgrounds. The appearances used more staff time. election. DeSaulnier will be are focused on water awareness The Zone 7 board vote autho- on the entire Valley ballot this and conservation. rizing the transitional 18-month November.) In government relations, the budget was 6-0, with Chris The bill is in the Senate Rules company helped Zone 7 attract Moore absent. Committee. General Manager Jill grant funding. The firm also de- Staff said that the extra one- Duerig said that most likely the livered support for Zone 7 work Photo - Doug Jorgensen time work of converting the bill will be assigned to the Senate with various regional agencies, Tri-Valley Haven’s Annual Candlelight March took place last Friday in Downtown Livermore. budget will require more staff Committee on Governance and and assisted the Zone 7 public The march, which draws attending to violence, began at Lizzy Fountain Park, with participants time than first anticipated. Fiance before the end of April. information officer. heading down First St. The former assistant general Duerig told the board that manager for finance, John Yue, DSRSD has endorsed the bill. retired in January. A temporary That prompted Livermore wa- employee has been working ter supervisor Randy Werner, one day per week, but that was who was in the audience, to ask County Projects Budget Gap of $88.1 million discovered to be insufficient for whether Zone 7 would like sup- Alameda County is project- The County’s financial up- by which the County must ap- will be to close what is a very the task. port letters from all of the water ing an $88.1 million budget gap date comes as Governor Brown prove a balanced budget for the substantial county shortfall,” The new person will come retailers. Duerig replied, “Any for the 2012-13 fiscal year. The continues to seek $10.3 billion in coming Fiscal Year. Carson said. “This will require from the same private agency as would be appreciated.” announcement was made tot the budget reductions that would in- However, Carson said the some very difficult decisions the temporary worker, Urban Fu- PUBLIC CONTACT County’s Budget Workgroup evitably widen Alameda County’s projected budget gap likely does - decisions that no doubt will fur- tures, Inc. The new person will FIRM RENEWED last week. County Administra- budget gap due to planned cuts not tell the entire story. Several ther hamper our ability to deliver work as much as necessary for up The board also authorized a tor Susan S. Muranishi said the in State programs administered pending factors could make fur- services that are very important to one year under a pay ceiling of three-year contract, not to exceed budget gap reflects sluggish rev- by local governments, including ther reductions to the County to people in our community.” $250,000, including benefits, an an annual total of $179,000, with enues linked to a slow economic welfare and child care programs Budget necessary in the coming The budget gap is the result executive position. Morrison & Associates. The recovery, costs associated with for low income families. months. These factors include of a comparison of estimated Tom Hughes has taken over firm, headed by Carl Morrison, the State’s new “realignment” In addition, the fate of Gov- public safety realignment, which budgetary needs and the antici- Yue’s duties and continues his has been working for Zone 7 for plan, growing employee health ernor Brown’s plan to ask voters shifts the responsibility for low pated levels of funding Alameda previous human relations posi- many years providing public re- and retirement costs and other in November to approve a series level adult offenders and parole County expects to receive in FY tion. Such actions are part of a lations and marketing services. factors. of tax increases to help the state violators from the State to local 2012-13. County budget analysts Zone 7 soft hiring freeze to save The board made the award “After a prolonged reces- close its budget shortfall will government, and the uncertainty were directed to begin the pro- money in the tight economy. over two other bidders, Math sion that ate significantly into have an impact on the county’s of sufficient revenue to support cess of preparing a list of options After the two budgets are Science Nucleus, which special- our resources, Alameda County budget and services. this new responsibility. Ongoing for closing the budget gap. reconciled, and the temporary izes in programs for schools, continues to be squeezed by rap- Supervisor Keith Carson, who negotiations have left it far from The Board will hammer out employee is gone, Zone 7 expects and Davis & Associates Com- idly rising employee health and chairs the Budget Workgroup, clear how much the State plans to the final details of the final county to have no problem in reverting munications, which engages in retirement costs, continued high said the large budget gap means reimburse Alameda County and budget at a series of public budget to its originally planned staffing a range of activities that include demand for services and a lack- he and his Board colleagues will other local governments for the hearings in late June. Alameda level. government affairs and media luster economy that undermines have some difficult decisions to new duties they are taking on. County is scheduled to approve BILL ASSIGNED relations. our chances for significant rev- make before July 1, the deadline “Our first order of business a final budget by July 1. TO SENATE PANEL enue growth,” said Muranishi. CHALLENGER (continued from page one) dies stand by a Challenger player in the field and assist as necessary with fielding and throwing, hit- ting, and running the bases. The LHS junior varsity team served as buddies for the LALL Chal- lenger team at Saturday’s game. For several of the LHS play- ers, this was not their first expe- rience with Challenger baseball. Through his former little league team, Matt Stoebe was a Chal- lenger buddy and he helped with the LALL Challenger team’s practices earlier this spring. “I’ve been playing baseball for 12 years, so it’s fun to help these kids play the game,” he says. “Everyone on my team is really excited to be here today.” On Saturday, there were two other Challenger games going on at the same time as the LALL Challenger game against a San Ramon team. Eight different Challenger teams from the Tri- Valley participate in the league, which plays eight games each spring, weather permitting. The LALL Challenger team prepared for this season with two practices, courtesy of Double Diamond Sports. Owners Kevin Shimabuku and Rick McEwan donated their time and facility once again this year. Players from baseball teams at both LHS and Granada High School served as buddies for the practices. “The Challengers absolutely loved their time at Double Dia- mond. This experience helps them make friend with the bud- dies, get some great baseball at- tention, and feel important,” says Marcon-Hermann. “We finish the practices by giving each player a pin and ball that they can have signed by Rick, Kevin, and the buddies. This is important to the players, but also lets the buddies know how important they are.” The LALL Challengers par- ticipated in all of the opening ceremonies on March 3. Follow- ing the ceremonies, the team split in half for an exhibition game before a big crowd. “I could not run this team smoothly without my assis- tant coach Jennifer Kinney, the LALL Board of Directors. Dis- trict 57 League Administrator Dave Wetmore, our families, the many volunteers and buddies, and most of all, the players and their extended families,” says Marcon-Hermann. “We always have a huge cheering section at our practices and games.” She is organizing the 8th an- nual Little League District 57 Challenger Jamboree on May 25 at the Dublin Sports Park. Over 30 teams from Northern Califor- nia and beyond will participate. Marcon-Hermann is looking for volunteers to help with the Jamboree. For more information, visit http://challengerjamboree. ca57.org. To learn more about Challenger baseball, visit www. littleleague.org/media/challeng- er.htm.

PAGE 6 - The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012

Iris and Kirstin Brand of the Pleasanton Seahawks (PLS) competed at the Swim Cup Eindhoven, Netherlands April 12 - 15. This was a qualification meet for the European Youth Championships and the European Championships. Kirsten swam two JR National cuts (200/400 free) and two bonus cuts (100/800 free). Iris swam one JR National cut (100 free) and two bonus cuts (50 free/200 back). Both swimmers finished top 16 The 6th grade Livermore Mystics brought home the 2nd Place Photo - Doug Jorgensen (Kirstin: 200/400/800 free), (Iris: 200 back) and Kirsten finished trophy at this past weekend's North Peninsula Force "No Way Foothill High School Falcons defeated Granada 17 to 6 in EBAL 4th in the 1500. Pictured left to right are Iris, PLS Head Coach Out" tournament. The girls won the first two games, defeating lacrosse action. In the photo Foothill player, Steve Patrick (31), Steve Morsilli and Kirstin. teams from Santa Cruz and San Carlos. The only defeat came in drives past Travis Head (9). In other games, the Falcon won all the championship game when, despite a late game rally, the girls of the games, defeating the Granada JV, 14 to 6; girls varsity, 21 to 9, and girls JV, 14 to 5. Inside Out Coaching Rounding out the women’s swimming lost to a very skilled G4 Tsunami team from Santa Cruz, 24-20. scoring were Karina Hernandez (Tracy), 12th Pictured are (front row) Sydney Pournaras, Ashley Lamb, Taylor Ex-NFL player Joe Ehrmann will be at in the 100 fly, and Tyler Cartwright (Liver- Amador Valley High School on Mon., April more) a seventh in the 50 breaststroke. Sullivan, Emily Trask; (back row) Gigi Cole, Jessica Bennett, Thornton had two RBI and Kaitlyn Jones base twice and Aaron Aguilar had two singles. 30 for a presentation “Inside Out Coaching, Hawk divers also turned in some solid had two hits. Natalie Tarantino drove in a Cameron Priest made two catches in the field How Sports can Transform Lives.” The event performances. Aaron Specht (Granada) took Regan Wiedenfeld, Sierra Marshall, Nicole Bartels, Arianna run while Kate Inman and Corey Bryan each and pitched three strikeouts to lead the Red begins at 7 p.m. in the multipurpose room, a pair of thirds in the two diving events and Salcido and Aliyah Barone. singled and scored for Blue Line. Sox on defense. Top Athletics players: Jacob 1155 Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton. Denise Butler (Castro Valley) took fifth in Senior Division: Fuji Sushi Boat and Marshall, Ryan Escover, Griffin Bateson; Ehrmann draws his observations about one meter diving. Buffet 7, Livermore (M9) – Intensity 4: Top Red Sox players: Rigo Zapien, Aaron rethinking and redefining the place and Gianfortone, Vivian Skeate and Molly Spi- run in the second. She also hit a single in Fuji Sushi Boat and Buffet - Jenn Teitell Aguilar, Cameron Priest purpose of sports in America from Season nola all played great. the fourth inning. Allyson Kirimli was a in a key offensive play hit a two-strike, A’s 16, Yankees 1: The Athletics scored of Life, a NY Times Bestseller and his recent Summit Financial Group vs. RS Cali- stand-out offensively, hitting a solid single two-out double. Dharini Clare pitched five seven runs in the first and nine runs in the book, InSideOut Coaching. Granada Little League bration: Summit Financial Group’s Katie in the first inning, singled in the third and excellent innings allowing only one run. Jill second to beat the Yankees 16-1. All ten As The event is funded and co-sponsored Granada Little League results: came in to score. Emily Highs bat was hot, Eicher pitched 2 strong innings as well as scored in the game. Jared Tavares had two Minor AA: Orioles 10, Cardinals 4: Salonga, Paige Bennett and Presley Bledsoe by California Season of Life Foundation, had powerful hits. RS Calibration’s A.J. Ava- doubling to left in the second inning, and getting three hits and driving in three runs. hits and two RBIs and Michael Honeycutt Pleasanton Rage Soccer, and Amador Valley It was a hot day for baseball. The Orioles came in to score. Livermore (M9)-Intensity - Sam Waddle had a base-clearing triple. Christopher Kilday played a great offensive game. Steven Geyer lanche, Erin Spohr and Amy Fitzsimmons all High school. played a fantastic game as well. Machi Construction 5, Securities Ameri- played excellent defense at 1st base. Kate- helped on defense by starting a double play. Youth coaches, parents, and older slammed 2 base hits. Gavin Carreira and ca 3: In a highly anticipated rematch between lyn Erickson pitched three strong innings The Yankees recorded hits by Alexander Eduardo Angeles both had hits that helped Micro Teal: The Course at Wente vs. athletes are all invited to attend. For more Athen’s Burgers: Audrey Davis had a great these two teams, Machi Construction roared totaling five strikeouts. Courtney Ganguet Forgatsch and Drew Braudrick and Noah information about Joe Ehrmann, visit - www. their team win the game. On defense Kyle out to an early lead thanks to Meaghan played powerful offense getting two hits. Pettit recorded two strikeouts. Top Athletic Rodgers caught a great pop fly and Antonio infield play on a hard grounder with a throw coachforamerica.com/meet-joe. to 1st base for an out and an awesome hit Penrice, Emma Seitz, and Annika Huston. Both teams played great softball! players: Jared Tavares, Michael Honeycutt, For information about the event, contact Rivilie pitched a great game for his team. For Securities America fought back hard behind Christopher Kilday Top Yankee players: the Cardinals, Ryan Macintire hit a double. to right field. Lauren Pollack had a nice hit Dan Copenhagen (925) 683-1899, dcopen- to left field. Natalia Badger had a great hit the pitching leadership of Kamryn Flemings. Alexander Forgatsch, Drew Braudrick, [email protected] or Drew Sanders (415) Giovanni Costello and Joey Katan both Whitney Dishman was ferocious at the plate, Livermore American LL Noah Pettit knocked in RBIs with hits. On the mound, to left outfield. Caroline Surridge of The Livermore American Little League 843-1216, [email protected] Course at Wente had an awesome hit to right and Emma Crabb was perfect in the field. AAA Division: Yankees 11, Red Sox 2: Justin Gilliam and Dale Spence recorded Machi Construction was able to hold the results: Yankees top players: Tyler Morano (triple); two strike outs each. field. Kaitlin Hekl had three hits at three at Majors: A’s 8, Giants 10: The A’s came bats. Ruby Hartness had a great play behind lead despite Securities America’s final inning Blaze Hill hit a line drive for a double; Las Positas Swimming Minor AAA: Diamondbacks 1, A’s 8: heroics. Top Players: Securities America out and scored four runs on Giantss errors for Tyler Kelly hit a line driver. Red Sox top In only the second year of the program, The D’Backs were led by strong defensive the plate as catcher and had two hits at bat. a 4 to 1 lead in the first inning. The second the Las Positas College swimming and div- Saylor Limkakeng had two nice hits at bat. - Emma Crabb, Whitney Dishman, Kamryn players: Jared Tittenour, Mikey Bryson, plays by Bobosky and six strikeouts by Shah, Flemings; Machi Construction - Annika inning was clearly owned by the Giants, as Shane Bromwel. ing team acquitted itself well in the Coast as well as hits by Correia and Choumas who Top Players: The Course at Wente - Natalia they scored 8 runs on four hits. Giants’ Bren- Conference Championships. The men’s team Badger, Audrey Davis, Lauren Pollack; Huston, Meaghan Penrice, Emma Seitz A’s 16, Dodgers 7: The A’s started scored the Diamondback’s only run. The A’s Minor Teal: Fire Stop Sprinkler Com- dan McCafferty, Conner Johnston and Bryan with mighty bats scoring 10 runs in the first finished in third place. The women finished were led by two RBI off doubles from Lewis Athen’s Burgers - Ruby Hartness, Kaitlin Torres had singles. Parker Brandt hit a triple seventh and had several good performances Hekl, Saylor Limkakeng pany 9, Diversified Mortgage 5: Fire Stop two innings. Nolan Martin hit powerfully and another double by Hord. Defensively the Sprinkler Company-Madeline Baalman: 2 with the bases loaded and scored on that play throughout the game, going 3 for 3 for the including league champions in the 1650 free A’s made several outstanding fielding plays A2 Technologies vs. Joanne Bry- due to an A’s throwing error to home plate and the 800 free relay. As a result of the meet, ant–State Farm: A2 Technologies saw nice innings on the mound throwing 27 strikes night with 2 RBIs. Nolan’s impressive field- highlighted by the efforts of Stephenson on 51 pitches and 2 strike outs. 2 for 3 with and Brandt’s speed. This fired up the Giants’ ing strengthened the A’s as well including a the Hawks will be sending two swimmers, and Finch. catches from shortstop Ella Gervasoni and dugout and bleachers. The A’s attempted a Kyle Suchland (Foothill High) and Justin catcher Brooke Inman, 3-for-3 hitting by 1 RBI on a squeeze bunt, 2 runs scored and great back-pedaling catch in the 4th. Jack Marlins 5, A’s 16: The Marlins were 4 stolen bases. Theresa Colberg: shut down comeback in the top of fourth in which they Volponi hit a blast to centerfield in the 2nd Stafford (Freedom), to the state meet. led defensively by Young and James who Natalie O’Sullivan and Erica Haley, as well scored four more runs with singles by Logan Sydney Wagner placed first in the 1650 as a crushing hit to left from Maddie Benson. the base paths with a stellar job behind the that earned him a double and 2 RBIs. Antoine made several strong fielding plays, and also plate. Went 2 for 2 with a single and a double, Cole and Griffin Bateson. However, the A’s Evans’ bat was smokin’ hot all night; he free and third in the 500 free and 13th in assisted Vi with multiple base hits, as he Leading the way for Joanne Bryant – State would come up short as Giants’ pitcher Tyler the 50 yard fly. Wagner, along with Jennifer Farm were Abby Clubb, Kiana Fuentes, 2 RBI’s and 4 stolen bases. Malia Konig: ripped 2 singles and a double with 6 stolen delivered a triple in the bottom of the first 24 strikes on 45 pitches with 4 strikeouts on McMahon came in to close the game in the bases including a steal home in the 5th. The Porter (West), Ashley Kardos (Foothill), and inning. The A’s Parodi made several strong pitcher Sophie Wendell and 3rd baseman fifth inning. He struck out all six batters that Cassie Stuart (Foothill), was also a league Gianna Ghio. two innings of work allowing 1 run. 1 for 3 Dodgers played strong as well and earned fielding plays including teaming up for a with 2 RBI’s and a run scored. Diversified faced him. A’s second baseman Michael Hun- back 5 runs in the 3rd inning. Joseph Fields champ in the 800 free relay. The Hawks double play with Stephenson. The A’s bats CA Mechanical Inc. vs. Marleen Arm- nicut had a great defensive fifth inning as he received a strong performance from Stuart strong – Farmers Insurance: CA Mechanical Mortgage - Audrey Emmett, 1 for 1 and hit started a rally with a rocket to the outfield. were led by the Josh and Jordan Collum, and by pitch. Drove in a run and scored one. caught the two balls fired at him. The Giants’ Later in the 5th, smart base running by Joseph (Foothill High) who recorded fourth place a triple by Parodi. Inc. - Rachel Tanis had 2 unassisted putouts base running was aggressive throughout the finishes in the 50, 100 and 200 freestyle and a big hit; Sarah-Rose Nicolson hit a line One stolen base. Sammy McClain, 1 for 2, took him around the bases to score again even Orioles 5, A’s 1: Orioles’ Grant Burjon drove in a run and stole two bases. Alexis game, though A’s catcher Logan Cole had without hits to help him out. Both Cameron events. Porter was nearly as prodigious pitched a complete game, assisted by strong drive down 3rd base line; Hailey Simons did some good throw downs resulting in two garnering a fourth place in the 50 back, a great at pitching. Marleen Armstrong–Farm- Blaschka, 1 for 1 and hit by pitch. Scored Winter and Daniel Tolentino launched deep fielding by Ryan Wenzel at second base. Of- a run and stole four bases. outs. A’s standouts: Logan Cole - double, shots to centerfield to bring in multiple runs fifth in the 100 back, and an 11th in the 100 fensively Tre Savino hit a triple, and Ethan ers Insurance - Maddie DiMaggio had 2 solid strong arm at catcher; Michael Hunnicut free. The women had one other multiple hits; Abbie Kumpf pitched a good inning; McElroy Orthodontics 9, San Jose Boiler for the Dodgers. After 6 innings, the A’s ended Vincent hit a double and triple. The A’s Zach Works Inc. 7: In a match up against unde- - great defensive; Griffin Bateson - single, up on top 16-7. event scorer. Erica Efigenio (Amador Valley) Parodi pitched four innings and helped his Ruby Duncan pitched a good inning. Top RBI. Giants standouts: Parker Brandt, Tyler took second in the 50 breaststroke and third Players: CA Mechanical Inc. - Sarah-Rose feated teams, McElroy Orthodontics got out A’s 9, Giants 9: A’s lead-off hitter Parker cause with strong fielding efforts along with to a quick lead that proved to be just enough McMahon, Bryan Torres in the 100 breaststroke. teammate Logan Finch. The A’s bats were Nicolson, Hailey Simons, Rachel Tanis; Mar- A’s 8,Yankees 5: A three-run home run Suchland and Stafford led the way for the leen Armstrong–Farmers Insurance - Maddie to hold off a furious comeback by San Jose led by a double by Josh Collom and a triple Boiler Works Inc. McElroy Orthodontics had by Noah Reno for the Yankees, didn’t keep men. Suchland posted a pair of seconds in the by Alec Lewis. DiMaggio, Ruby Duncan, Abbie Kumpf the Athletics from coming back and winning 200 back and the 500 free and took fourth in Mini White: West Maui Condo Rentals strong pitching by Nicole Witters, as well as Giants 5, A’s 15: The Giants staged a late timely hitting by Avni Patel and Jillian Witt. the game with some timely hits. Matthew the 100 back. He will be swimming in the rally led by a double by Silva and a single by vs. Alta Sales Group: For the visiting Alta Klein and Shawn Cox both had two hits and state meet in all three events. Stafford also Sales Group, Deja Clark played through a San Jose Boiler Works Inc.’s bats came to Jarod Madar, who also had a beautiful bunt life later in the game, thanks to multiple hits an RBI and Michael Honeycutt had two hits placed in three different individual events. single in the first inning that scored an early tough injury, Kaile Sypniewski excelled on with three RBIs. For the Yankees, Conner His second place finish in the 50 free and defense, and Abbey Cortez pitched an out- by Morgan Harris, Tierra DuPre, and Bridget run for the Giants. Defensively the Giants O’Sullivan. O’Sullivan also made some nice Nevin had a solid pitching game and Drew his 10th in the 100 free were good enough to were led by AJ Guel who struck out two in standing inning. For the home West Maui Braudrick made a tough line drive catch at make it to the state meet. He finished eighth Condo Rentals, Lindsay Salmon drove in a catches on line drives at shortstop to keep the fifth inning, and strong fielding by Van the score close. shortstop.Top Athletics players: Matthew in the 100 back. Trevor Lundeen (Dougherty Blandel. The A’s scored big early, led by run, Emmy Withrow made some great plays Klein, Shawn Cox, Michael Honeycutt Top Valley) fell short of state, but swam an im- in the field, and Katlyn Martins pitched very Minor Black: Blue Line 8, Hopyard Ale Nathaniel Basinger with two triples and a House 4: Blue Line defeated Hopyard Ale Yankee players: Noah Reno, Conner Nevin, pressive meet nonetheless, going four and single for six RBIs. Logan Finch added two well. Top Players: West Maui Condo Rentals Drew Braudrick five in the 100 and 200 breaststroke and - Katlyn Martins, Lindsay Salmon, Emmy House in a hard fought contest 8-4. Sarah singles. The A’s held the lead with help from Layer scored three times on three plate ap- A’s 11, Red Sox 0: Jacob Marshall hit grabbing a seventh in the 200 IM. an outstanding throw by catcher Quinn Ayers Withrow; Alta Sales Group - Deja Clark, triple for an RBI to help lead the Athletics to The men pretty much dominated the Abbey Cortez, Kaile Sypniewski pearances and used her stretch at 1st to make to second baseman Zach Parodi to prevent key outs. Kaitlen Jones pitched a solid game a 11-0 win over the Red Sox in Majors ac- 100 breaststroke event, scoring places three a stolen base. Alta Sales Group vs. Delores Gragg– tion. Ryan Escover had two RBIs and Griffin through six. Joining Lundeen were Brandon Keller Williams Realty: On the home team, with 12 strikeouts and was a constant threat Orioles 7, A’s 6: The A’s rallied hard on the base paths. Lilly Ryan played strong Bateson had a double and a single with two Lind (Dublin, third), Jared Watanabe (fifth) in the 6th inning to almost overcome the Maya Bhaskaran displayed dominant pitch- RBIs. For the Red Sox, Rigo Zapien reached and Will Shill (sixth). The Hawks did nearly ing effort. Madelyn Murawski made several defense at 3rd with excellent glove work 7-1 Orioles lead. A’s Josh Collum pitched and using her speed to score on a passball. as will in the 200 breaststroke with Shill and hit consistently, Zach Parodi was solid strong fielding plays. Mia De La Cruz had (Livermore) and Watanabe (Amador Val- good pitching and hitting plays, and great Hopyard Ale House’s Claire Fuller pitched with awesome pitching Alec Lewis and a strong game in relief with Hope Alley ley) going two, three with Lundeen fifth. Nathaniel Basinger recorded some great spirit to encourage her teammates. On De- Watanabe scored a sixth in the 1650 to cap lores Gragg–Keller Williams Realty, Britney behind the plate throwing out runners daring hits to the out field. Orioles catcher Dylan to steal 2nd. Maddie Hildebrand provided an excellent meet. Alex Iniguez (Amador Rodgrigues made some smooth plays, Tre Aguilar had a great line drive hit. Ishana Ram Valley) joined Watanabe in the 1650 with played aggressive defense all over the field. the power with two hits and scoring Hopyard Savino was busy stealing bases, Brandon Ale House’s first run. an eighth place finish and also took an 11th Harvey pitched a few great innings and Abigail Heinemann got 2 hits and made an in the 200 back. unassisted out at second base, along with Hopyard Ale House 10, All Star Sports 5: Ty Bothwell-Mitlitsky had an entertaining For Hopyard Ale House, Rachel Taffe had a The men also placed three swimmers in Super Pickle. several great plays on the infield. the 200 fly and the 100 back. Lind (fourth), Mini Teal: GFI Stainless 4, Machi strong outing as pitcher and Aliya Lubrin as was joined by Kyle Biondi (Castro Valley, Construction 3: Kenna Asmussen showed shortstop. For All Star Sports, Claire Larsen 12), and Justin Avriett (Amador Valley, 14) great form as pitcher, throwing many had a good outing on the mound and Hannah placed in the fly while Stafford and Colin Pleasanton Girls Softball strikes and confusing the hitters with her Schott and Emily Yamasaki both scored runs Pleasanton Girls Softball League speedy throws. Nicole Stapleton excelled for their team. Drury (Amador Valley) joined Suchland in results: the 100 back. Biondi also grabbed an eighth this week on offense knocking a line drive Barry Winston OD 11, Blue Line 5: Barry T-Ball: Summit Financial Group vs. for a single, and came in to score. Caitlyn Winston OD broke open a 5-5 game behind in the 100 fly, Jacobe had a ninth in the 500 Maher Educational Services: Summit Fi- free, and Drury an eighth in the 200 back. Burns was awesome on defense, knocking Sierra Gholston (four RBI), Chloe Engel nancial Group had some fantastic hits by down a line drive which held the batter at (three RBI) and Ellen Ebbers (2 RBI). Lauren Although they placed only sixth, the Caitlyn Burgess and Casey Magwili. Also, men’s 800 free relay team of Iniguez, Jac- 1st base. She also hit a double that brought Hermes, Olivia McGee and Abby Fried also Jennifer Gilmore made some great plays at in a run for Machi Construction. For GFI sparked Barry Winston OD. For Blue Line, obe, Drury, and Joey Silva broke the school pitcher. Maher Educational Services Grace record in the event. Stainless, Katie Jones singled to drive in a Lilly Ryan went 3-for-3 with two runs, Nicole LARPD Hosts Successful Run for the Parks Benefit Fitness and fundraising com- benefit park programs. ers began their events at Wente bined for the Livermore Area Over 350 people of a variety Vineyards and traversed through Recreation and Park District’s of ages took part in the 10K, 5K Sycamore Grove Park’s beautiful second annual Run for the Parks. or Kids 1-Mile Fun Run on Sun- springtime open space. More than $8,500 was raised to day, April 15. Runners and walk- The overall 10K winner was Raymond Rodriguez, 50, of Los Baños with a time of 36:03:4. Craig Whichard, 53, of Liver- more, finished a close second in 36:43.2. The overall 5K winner was Livermore’s own Hamza Makhlaf, 24, with a time of 20:10.3. Nick Froumis, 33, of San Jose finished second with a time of 20:15.1. The Kids Fun Run winners were Kylie Karter, 10, in first place and runner-up Josiah Alpher, 9. The Run for the Parks T-shirt design was created by Rancho Las Positas Elementary School fourth-grader Isabella Palmer. A member of LARPD’s Rancho ESS program, Isabella’s design featured an “I (Love) Parks” logo that represents her fondness of parks and nature. The park inside the heart represents this love. Sponsors for the event were Wente Vineyards, Olivina LLC, Safeway, Trader Joe’s, Sports Basement, Target, Advanced Health Chiropractic and Na- tional Holistic Institute. Event productions were provided by Finish Line Productions. Re- sults are posted online at http:// www.finishlineproduction.com/ Isabella Palmer holds up her winning design. 2012Results.html.

The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012 - PAGE 7

The West Coast Olympic Gymnastics Academy optional gymnasts qualified and competed in the Region 1 Championships in Las Vegas, Nevada on April 13, 2012. Region 1 includes Northern California, Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. The West Coast Wildfire U12 hit the road for a spring league Level 9 gymnast Isabella Orecchia finished in 15th place on game against the Mill Valley Rockers. After an evenly matched beam with 8.575 and 24th place all around with 33.850. Level 8 first half, the Wildfire started the second with an unrelenting gymnast Anna Siebel finished in 17th place on bars with 9.325 offensive assault. The girls fired 10 shots on goal within the and 28th place all around with a 35.750. Pictured are Coach first 20 minutes. The first goal came from forward Sydney Mike Lynch, and gymnast Isabella Orecchia. Schultz with an assist from Amanda Zeck. Goal number two for the Wildfire was scored by Meghan Giamona with a power- Carlos Flores proved with his four for four the game with a scoreless sixth to secure shot at quarter field that sailed over the goalies fingertips and batting abilities. Calvin Shawler showed the Angel’s win. Jordan Buranis of the Granada Little League Junior 80s Gold into the top right corner. The West Coast Wildfire took home a solid defense with incredible footwork, A Division: speed and timing in the infield. The Giants Giants vs. A’s: It was an exciting game team makes a leaping catch of a fly ball as part of a 5-1 win over 2-1 victory. Pictured is West Coast Goalie, Claire Abele, easily didn’t buckle, however, as Stephen Mal at Bernal between the Giants and A’s on a dominated with great throws to first base. hot Saturday afternoon. Giants 1st baseman San Ramon. Photo by Bill Nale. handling a shot on goal. Jackson Whatley pieced together perfect Spencer Camastro made several key outs precision from the leadoff spot. and pitcher Matt Andre caught a fly ball Hughes got things rockin’ with a deep blast, Diamondbacks vs. Cardinals: Diamond- and fielded 2 hard hit ground balls in the 3rd in an outstanding effort limiting the Black to place 200 free relay team along with Rachel Livermore National LL backs came out with enthusiasm and their inning. Derek Zhang also aided the Giants only 10 shots all day and forcing the Black Knowles and Eva Chung, but the two split earning a triple. Parker was 2 for 3 for the Livermore National Little League night and excelled in the field as well with eagerness paid off as Tanner Griffith made strong defense. On offense, Jackson Flora to play most of the game in their end of the up for the other second place relays. Iris was results: a double play catching a high fly ball and and Erik Olsen smashed the ball to the outfield field. The game was close up to the end until joined by Chung, Knowles, and Elaina Gates quick hands and fast outs. A’s shortstop T-Ball: Cardinals vs. Padres: Out- James Duperly was at the top of his game beat the runner back to second for the force and Hunter Rohovit made a great slide into the Phantoms frustration started to show for the medley relay while Kirsten led off the standing performance in the field for the out. The Cardinals played tremendous home plate for a run to end the game. allowing the Black to open up a lead. The 400 free relay, followed by Cate MacGregor, with 3 singles, 3 stolen bases, and 3 RBIs. Cardinals by Blake Wilkinson. Awesome A’s centerfielder Grant Peterson showed his offense as led by Ashton Romero with two Phillies vs. Orioles: Both the Phillies boys learned a valuable life lesson Sunday Bernadine Martin, and Gates. offensive power for the Cardinals supplied hits and great play as catcher. Cardinals first and Orioles connected for many great hits that some days you do everything right, The Brands weren’t the only swimmers skill and style by making several awesome by Tyler Laymon catches of well-hit fly balls. For the Giants, baseman Kyle Denton was responsible for and scored multiple runs each inning at the and it still doesn’t go your way. Offensive to have a good day for the Lady Dons. Diamondbacks vs. Cubs: Diamond- at least six outs during the game. Thomas Sports Park on Saturday. For the Phillies, big summary: D. Marks 1; G. Vest 1. Goalie: Knowles took second in the fly and sixth Peyton Gibbs was impressive in the field, backs: Diego Valverde displayed great glove making an amazing play in the 4th inning to Staube played a strong third baseman but hitters included Nolan Story, Alex Johnson, J. Faith 5 saves in the IM while Chung swam to a pair of work on the field earning defensive player also had a hot bat. and Tyler Holmes. The Orioles had many big fourths in the 50 free and the fly. Anna Parker grab a hard line drive and end a bases-loaded of the game. Jake Nuti contributed to stellar threat by the A’s. Evan Capurro added fuel to Rockies vs. Giants: The Rockies execut- hitters including Cole Gronley and Nihar notched a third (back) and a eighth (50 free). defense by the Diamondbacks with a great ed on offense with many great hits. Tanner Palkonda who hit doubles. Ben Miller did Amador Swimming MacGregor and Martin also had a pair of top the Giants’ fire with a single in the 5th that tag out at home plate. Cubs: Diego Flores The Amador Valley High School varsity scored the go-ahead run. Fantastic pitching Lee and Kyle Johnson’s bats were hot with a an excellent job at third base and Khaleb 10 finishes. MacGregor garnered a fourth in displayed his skills at second base for the couple of hits into the outfield. Rockies also Williams received the game ball for a great boys swim team received big days from the 500 and a seventh in the IM while Martin by Giants’ fastball specialist Matt Polaski Cubs recording all three outs on his own Bryan Hughes, Jason Chen and Nick John- kept the A’s from putting a large amount had some great defensive plays including a job at catcher. took fifth in the 500 free and seventh in the in the top of the 3rd inning. Derrien Paiso double play executed by Luke Migsud and ston in the Tom Wilson Invitational held at breaststroke. Joining Martin in the top 10 in of runs on the board with 8 strikeouts. The made contributions throughout the game for their home pool. game was called for darkness at the end of Max Thompson. The Giants made some great the breaststroke were Beverly Fu (8th) and the Cubs with runners on base driving runs plays as well and also had a great offensive Phantom Lacrosse The trio all grabbed first place finishes Rachel Bench (10th). 5 innings, resulting in a tie 9-9. in with his powerful batting and another top five finishes to lead Amador A’s 10, Red Sox 6: Red Sox top play- game. MVP’s for Giants were James Foley Phantom Lacrosse results: Rounding out the top 10 finishers for Cubs. vs. Padres: Cubs: Ryan Emerson and Ray Castillo. U15 Phantoms vs Pleasanton Tornados: in point scoring. Hughes swam to his first the Dons were Gates who finished fifth in ers: Kyle Conrad & Jake Blanchard had a and Christopher Kitchuck both displayed in the fly and scored a third in the 50 free, great combo catch for an out at 3rd base in Diamondbacks vs. Rockies: The Livermore 12, Pleasanton 6: The Phantom’s the 50 free and Roshni Nair who took ninth their development as young players with Diamondbacks made many great defensive cross valley rival came to play in the 90 while Johnston nearly matched him with a in the IM. the 3rd inning. Matthew Hagan had a 2 RBI their glove work on defense and strong hit- first in the back and a fourth in the 500 free. hit in 4th inning to put the Red Sox on the plays. Tanner B. made many outs and degree heat on the grass at Robertson park ting throughout the game doubled. Great plays were also executed Saturday, but were no match for the Phan- Chen contributed his first in the100 free board, followed by a RBI from Nick Delisle. Cardinals vs. Giants: Cardinals: Ryan and notched a fifth in the 200 free. While Mikey Bryson hit a double w/RBI and Jake by D-Back Carson Mendoza. The Rockies toms on their home field. The Phantom’s Memorial Run and BBQ Victor played well in the field. Black made the home team fans cheer showing offense was productive from all angles to he didn’t finish first, RJ Scott contributed The California Peace Officers Associa- Blanchard followed with a triple and RBI to Wilkinson supplied the power at the plate. a pair of top 10 finishes going fifth in the rally the Red Sox, but it wasn’t enough to off some great offense. Brayden Blacklock the goal with excellent play-making assists tion (CPOA) invites everyone to participate Giants: Ryan Millies was solid on defense. hit one deep into the outfield for a Rocky from Broklesby, Lovoi, Marks, and Vest. back behind Johnston and 10th in the 200 in a very special event honoring those win the game. A’s top players: James Wilcox Braden Jester powered the offense with free behind Chen. pitched three no-hit innings; Nolan Martin Double. The Rockies defense was led by Midfielder Frazier put in the final goal of who’ve lost their lives in the line of duty, three solid hits. great fielding by Sam Butler, Jake Beers and the game to make it an even dozen for the Also swimming to top 10 finishes for the while making our lives safer. The 4th An- went 3 for 3 at the plate with a 3 RBI blast in AAA Division: Padres 7, Giants 3: Dons were Kevin McLaughlin with a fourth the 2nd inning, and Gabriel Pinon contributed Xavier Aramas. Phantoms. Offensive summary: B. Broklesby nual California Peace Officers Association’s Giants outstanding players: Jack Bosso led 1/1A; J. Frazier 1; H. Goold 3; C. Lovoi 1A; in the breaststroke, Cameron Kurotori, sixth Memorial Run and Family Barbecue will be to the winning effort. the Giants offense with 2 triples while Elijah in the fly, Justin Pasquale who took ninth in AA Division: A’s 15, Giants 2: For the D. Marks 3/1A; J. Short 1; R. Twesten 2; G. held on Saturday, May 12, at Shadow Cliffs Maravilla went 2 for 2. Nick Donaldson was Foothill Little League Vest 1/2A Goalie: J. Faith 10 saves the fly, and Anthony Jhong getting a seventh Regional Park, Pleasanton. A’s, Britany Pettit pitched for two great in- the starting pitcher and gave up only 1 run Pleasanton Foothill Little League in the breaststroke. nings. She also hit a single and scored a run U15 Phantoms vs Petaluma River Cats All proceeds go directly to the Concerns in 2+ innings. Padres outstanding players: results: Black: Livermore 2, Petaluma 5: The Phan- Amador had one top three relay team, of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) (California in the first inning. Alex Scull played good Mason Delisser hit two doubles and sparked a Majors: Angels vs. Athletics: AJ the 200 free relay swum by McLaughlin, defense at 3rd and also did well pitching and toms did everything right against the Black Chapter), a non-profit organization whose 5 run inning. Eric Ruloma pitched 2 scoreless Warford clubbed two home runs over the at Robertson park on Sunday, but could not Hughes, Mike Pasquale and Kurotori. sole mission is to assist with the rebuilding hitting. Isaac Tufts hit for an RBI in the first innings and Logan Vinson closed the game Bernal Field fence sparking the Angels to an inning and had a hard hit single in the 6th get any shots past the excellent Petaluma goal of lives of surviving family members and in the 6th inning. 8-4 win over the Athletics. The game was tender. The power outside shots of Vest and Kirsten and Iris Brand each placed first affected co-workers of law enforcement inning scoring two runs for the A’s. Peyton Dodgers vs. Giants: For the Dodgers: back-and-forth with several lead changes Lemmons did well pitching for the Giants. Marks were there all afternoon but would in two individual events and swam on two officers killed. Alex Johnson had a single with a RBI and until the Angels took the lead for good in the seem to be met with a brick wall by the Black’s second place relay teams to lead the Amador The entry fee for the 10K or 5K Walk/Run Kevin Collity scored both of the Giants runs. a double. Brandon Martin had a triple and 5th inning. In addition to Warford’s 2 home Jeffrey Fairbanks played a solid game as keeper. Likewise, the precision feeds of Valley varsity girls swim team to a second is $35.00 pre-registered or $40.00 (after May RBI. Forest Bishop had a single with a RBI runs and four RBIs, Angel hitter Mitchell Lovoi, Warner, Broklesby and Parker would place finish in the Fifth Annual Tom Wilson 8 and race-day). The Kids’ Fun Run is $20.00 catcher. Eric Vandagriff also played well. and a double. For the Giants: Carlo Venura Lawrence stroked 2 hits including a double A Division: Giants 11, Cardinals 10: find their men open out in front, but the shots Invitational held at their home pool. pre-registered or $20.00 (after May 8 and had a triple with 2 RBI’s. Ricky Jacobi and Maxwell Stubbs had a key RBI single. would simply not go in. Even the Phantom Kirsten, a junior, won both the 500 free race-day). Entry fee will include the always- Giants: Andrew Groden recorded the first went 1 for 2 and Caelob Stimpson 1 for 2 On the pitching mound, Trevor Doster and RBI of the day in the 2nd inning, Ayden power players (Goold, Short, Thompson and and the backstroke while Iris, a freshman, popular commemorative T-shirt, beverages with a double. Owen Camp held down the A’s hitters with Twesten) would battle their way inside only touched the wall first in the 100 and 200 free and a delicious barbecue lunch, catered by Kelleher was responsible for 2 RBIs, Stephen 7 strikeouts over 5 innings. Warford closed AA Division: Padres vs. Giants: Padres: to come up empty. The Phantom defense put events. The pair both swam on the second (continued on page 8) Shepard collected an RBI for the lead in the Kade Ornellas made a great play at 2nd to 4th inning, then tied the game in the 6th. tag the runner out at first. Evan Nystrom and The Giants remain undefeated. Cardinals: Alex Sheldon had a great play that resulted Matthew Thompson collected one RBI, Jack in getting an out at 3rd. Rope Shreffler had Prusso recorded two outs at first base, Mat- a great inning pitching. Sean Stotts had a thew Thompson was part of a double play, strong hit and made it home. Jared Higuera catching a fly ball and throwing to third to had 2 RBIs. Giants: Joshua Kim had a great catch the runner. catch at first. Sean Smith hit a triple and T-Ball: Red Sox vs. A’s: Red Sox top pitched well. Nate Lee had a great hit and players: Dejon Carrier, Jaden Snowden, AJ Matty Sciascia got an out at 2nd base. Hattaway; Indians top players: Anthony Cardinals vs. Dodgers: Cardinals: Ben Sena, Caleb Messing, Robert Grout. Operin caught a pop fly out at 1st base and Giants vs. Yankees: Giants top players: assisted in 2 additional outs. Aiden Follis Connor Kenyon, Max Shapiro, Sam Bliss; was the first to single in the game and scored Yankees top players: Tate Rosburg, Domenic the first run. Dodgers: Julian Quigley had 2 Persi, Koa Won. innings with great pitching and stealing bases Padres vs. Phillies: Phillies top players: twice. John Stengall caught a heads-up catch Zachary Peeso, Mason Schaffer, Johnny behind home plate for the out. Suarez; Padres’ top players: Braeden Corliss, A Division: Diamondbacks vs. Giants: Parker Johnson, Noah Lima The Diamondbacks played with strength and determination as exceptional player PAGE 8 - The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012 Shelby Lynne Performs One Show at the Bankhead in Livermore Singer/songwriter Shelby Lynne will share her talents in an intimate concert that opens the month of May at the Bank- head Theater in Livermore. Lynne combines the influences of soul, rock, pop, and blues with her solid country music roots. Lynne will appear in a single performance at the Bankhead on Tuesday evening, May 1, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. Although singing has been in Shelby Lynne’s blood since birth, her path through the music world has been long and wind- ing, with time out of the spotlight punctuated by moments of fame. She was raised in rural Alabama by musical parents and was sur- Shelby Lynne rounded by the country music Live entertainment continues to be part of Pleasanton's 1st Wednesday events. The season begins of Hank Williams and Waylon for Nashville as soon as she fin- she is often compared. In addi- on May 2 with a Cinco de Mayo theme. Jennings, as well as the popular ished high school, determined to tion to singing, Lynne has also music of the 1950s. Lynne left make her way in the music world. taken on acting roles in several A chance meeting with the TV television shows, and played the producer of “Nashville Now” mother of Johnny Cash in the led to a brief appearance on the 2005 film Walk the Line. program and her first record deal. Lynne has produced more New Features Added to 1st Wednesday Parties Lynne’s success was immediate than a dozen recordings over the and she was named Best New past 20 years, including a holi- Pleasanton’s 1st Wednesday Main Street will be closed Market Association to create PDA Executive Director Lau- Female Vocalist in 1990 by the day album and her most recent, Street Parties are planned for from Del Valle Parkway to Bernal Market on Main - the 1st Wednes- ra Olson said, “Every year the Academy of Country Music. Revelation Road, is a solo effort May, June, July, August, and Avenue from 4:30 to 10 p.m. day iteration of Pleasanton’s Sat- PDA looks for new ways to make After recording five albums for which she wrote all the songs, September. Once a month, Main ArtBlock will deliver a new urday morning farmers’ market. events fresh and engaging for the in six years, Lynne took a break Street is filled with vendor booths dimension to Pleasanton’s 1st Located in the 800 block of Main sang all the tracks, and played all community, so I’m very excited from the Nashville music scene, the instruments. where pedestrians can learn more Wednesdays. The area will fea- Street, Market on Main will about the addition of ArtBlock, about local businesses and ser- ture 25 local artists, sculptors and feature approximately a dozen eventually moving to California Tickets to hear Shelby Lynne’s Market on Main, and Movies and releasing her breakthrough performance in the Bankhead vices while shopping, eating out jewelry crafters, all who special- local growers selling fresh fruits, on Main to our 1st Wednesday at local restaurants, and rocking ize in handmade arts and crafts. vegetables and flowers. album, I Am Shelby Lynne. Theater on May 1st range from out to live music. During each event, a pre-selected Movies on Main, which will Street Parties. I think the 1st Building on her Nashville roots, $29 to $51 for adults and $14 Wednesday crowd will love these The Pleasanton Downtown artist will be in attendance to be co-hosted by the PDA and the Lynne absorbed a variety of other for students. Association (PDA) has an- offer live demonstrations and City of Pleasanton, will bring fea- new aspects of an already popular musical influences and her new event!” The Bankhead Theater is nounced several new additions to discuss his or her work. ArtBlock ture films to Downtown. A pro- style launched her to a Grammy located at 2400 First Street in their annual street festival series. will occur through the duration of jector, screen and speakers will The addition of ArtBlock, Market on Main, and Movies on Award in 2001 as Best New Art- Downtown Livermore. The ticket This year, “1st Wednesdays” will each event on Angela Street at the be set up to allow seating in the ist. Lynne moves freely through debut ArtBlock, Market on Main, same location as the Pleasanton street. (The exact street location Main complements an already office is open Tuesday through and Movies on Main. Saturday Farmer’s Market. The is to be announced.) Residents exciting array of vendor booths, different styles and genres. She Saturday from 12:00 noon to The 2012 event season kicks street will be closed to traffic are encouraged to bring lawn beer and wine garden, food and has toured with her sister, Alison 6:00 p.m. On performance days off on May 2 with the Cinco from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A chairs and blankets. Movies on live music. Moorer, who holds to a more the ticket office remains open de Mayo-themed Street Party. large area will be reserved for Main will occur in June, July and Information about Pleasanton traditional country style. She through intermission. To pur- Festivities are from 6 to 9 p.m. both kids and adults to create August will feature Footloose Downtown Association is avail- recorded Just a Little Lovin’, a chase tickets call 925-373-6800 May’s featured band is Ruckatan, their own chalk art. (2011), Super 8 and Green Lan- able at (925) 484-2199, www. tribute to Dusty Springfield, a or visit www.bankheadtheater. performing in the beer and wine The PDA has collaborated tern, respectively. All shows will pleasantondowntown.net. singer she admires and to whom org garden. with the Pacific Coast Farmers’ begin at 8:45.

SPORTS Wine Country: It's Officially Purple at The Orchid (continued from page 7) The Purple Orchid is holding a in the Livermore Valley.” The and a Donner Lake Retreat, prob- of the Tri-Valley. A majority of from the Trade Tasting in San Outback Steakhouse, and a huge raffle. The family BBQ begins at 10:00 a.m., and ribbon cutting with the Chamber motion is hereby seconded. The ably two experiences that would the educational outreach goes to Jose! includes the Outback’s tri-tip or chicken, side of Commerce, Thursday, April $60 2007 Heritage Cabernet from complement one another nicely. schools in Livermore and Pleas- salad, chips, and fruit. Run entrants receive a meal ticket with paid race registration - extra 26, at 4:30pm with a champagne Concannon weighed in with an Like drinking Sauv Blanc and anton, with an emphasis on Title meal tickets can be purchased at the event for reception and open house at 85 score, with Virginie wonder- Zin one day, followed by Char- 1 schools. $12 (adults) and $7 (kids 12 and under for a the Inn to follow. The Purple ing about its limited complexity: donnay and Pinot the next. The LIVERMORE VALLEY choice of a hamburger or a hotdog). The Memorial Run will be held at Shadow Orchid is at 4549 Cross Road, in fact, it might be less about Big Island Getaway also sounds EDUCATION FOUNDATION Cliffs Regional Regional Park, located at Livermore, and can be reached complexity and more about fabulous, although one should is dedicated to restoring and 2500 Stanley Blvd., Pleasanton. Check-in and race-day registration will open at 7:30 at (925) 606 8855. The beauti- overall ageworthiness. I don’t never discount all the great tast- enhancing academic and ex- a.m., 10K will start at 8:20 a.m. and the 5K fully situated facility in 22 acres think we’ll see that problem in ing packages that local wineries tra-curricular activities in the will follow at 9:00 a.m. The Kid’s Mile will of olive tree covered hills on the the 2010 and 11 vintages, which put up for the silent auction. This Livermore Valley Joint Unified begin around 10:15 a.m. The post-race awards ceremony and barbeque are scheduled to start outskirts of Livermore is avail- should have sounder structure year, 33 wineries have signed up School District. around 11:00 a.m. able for weddings and private and built-in cellar heft. to participate, so come on out and Ticketes may be purchased at For more CPOA’s Memorial Run and Family Barbeque information and/or an parties and offers a tantalizing Ruby Hill also entered the meet some of the up and coming www.lvwine.org. application, contact On Your Mark Events array of spa treatments. fray, with the 2009 Reserve stars, like Csaba Szakal of En Next time: juicy discoveries at 209-795-7832, or visit their website. To The Inn has received numer- Chardonnay receiving an 86 Garde, and Charlie Kidd of Las register online, go to Active.com. ous awards from various travel for its pear, lemon and tropical Positas. magazines including Le Conde fruit that so many Chardonnay The proceeds benefit the fol- Golf for Baseball Nast, and from popular TV shows lovers adore, as well as the 2009 lowing organizations: A golf tournament to raise funds for Granada High School baseball will be held including Bay Area Back Roads Peacock Patch Reserve Zin that VALLEYCARE FOUNDA- Thurs., May 3 at The Course at Wente Vine- and Eye On the Bay Channel 5. snagged an 87, and a nod for TION provides healthcare to the yards in Livermore. Registration begins at noon with a shot- Proprietor Derek Eddy says Ruby Hill’s prowess with big, uninsured and low income youth gun start at 1:30 p.m. Bogey is your friend. that the Travel Channel will be ripe Zins. of the Tri-Valley. Fee of $600 for a foursome includes airing an episode featuring them OPEN HEART KITCHEN 18-holes of golf, cart, and soda/beer/water. All proceeds go directly to Granada High next Monday, April 30, at 7 pm DINNER TO THE serves prepared and nutritious Baseball and 10 pm. They are currently NTH DEGREE meals free of charge to the hun- The goal is to raise enough money for construction of new batting cages. working with the Livermore Wente Vineyards winemaker gry children in the Tri-Valley. A BBQ dinner with players and coaches Downtown association to plan an Karl Wente will share his wines BANKHEAD THEATER will be held as well. Baseball players will event around the airing. paired with culinary creations makes world-class arts and enter- act as caddies. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, the longest drive and from Catering Executive Chef tainment accessible to the youth closest to the pin. Raffle tickets will be sold SEEN IN WINE Jeff Farlow, featuring garden at the tournament. For tournament information, contact Joe ENTHUSIAST ingredients produced by Master Cousins, Avnet Joseph.Cousins@Avnet. Livermore wines continue Gardener Diane Dovholuk at com. For Granada baseball information, to garner acclaim and attention a Dinner to the Nth Degree on contact Corrigan Willis, Head Baseball Coach at [email protected]. in the press, and the May issue May 11. of Wine Enthusiast features the Dinner will from 6:30 to 9 Golf Tournament 2009 Occasio Cabernet, which p.m. at the Event Center at Wente The Las Positas College Veterans First received a 90 point score, as Vineyards, 5050 Arroyo Rd., Program needs golfers to play in the 6th An- well as several from Darcie Kent. Livermore. Guests admission is nual Charity Golf Tournament, May 19, at the Monarch Bay Golf Club in San Leandro. Play It’s great to see more labels that $109, including wine, $89 for is 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by a dinner and say Livermore on them being Club Wente Members. Reserva- raffle at The Englander from 1 to 5 p.m. Foursome fee is $550-$600 (reserve featured in the press. The Darcie tions are required, and can be by April 20 and receive a $50 discount). Kent wines included the 2008 completed by call 456-2405. Individual fee is $140-$150 ($10 discount Madden Ranch Cabernet Sauvi- before April 20). The fee includes greens fee, cart, players lunch, balls, tees, hole-in- gnon, rated 89, the 2010 Darcie MAY 5 WINE AUCTION one contest entry, complete BBQ dinner, Kent DeMayo Chardonnay (87), HIGHLIGHTS and beverages. To register contact Mark Wodyka at and the 2009 Darcie Kent Crown Tickets are going rapidly for 510-673-6350, [email protected], or Block Merlot (87). Just seeing the upcoming annual Wine Auc- register online at www.englanderpub.com. those beautiful labels in the tion on May 5 at the Barrel Room Place Your Classified Ad magazine makes you appreciate at Wente, and there are some in The Independent Charity Cup Golf the artfully elegant touch Darcie tempting auction lots, including on-line at www. 17th Annual Charity Cup Golf Classic will be held at the Las Positas Golf Course has added to the Livermore Val- a Manhattan Penthouse Escape independentnews.com or in Livermore on Fri., May 18. The event is ley wine scene. call 243-8000 hosted by Beeb’s Sports Bar & Grill. Also represented in the May The event will benefit the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. issue were several Concannon The $150.00 per player fee includes green Vineyard entries, including 2010 fee, cart, lunch, dinner, golf shirt, tee prizes, on-course refreshments, awards ceremony & Reserve Chardonay (85) and a raffle prize giveaway 2008 Mother Vine Reserve Cab- Format is Four Man Scramble. Lunch ernet Sauvignon, which garnered begins at 11:00am; shotgun start at 1:00pm To register contact Beeb’s at (925)455- an 88 score and this comment 7070. from Virginie Boone: “This wine Tee sponsorships are available. Beeb’s Sports Bar & Grill, 915 Clubhouse adds to the growing case to be Drive, Livermore, CA 94551, (925)455- made for Cabernet Sauvignon 7070

The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012 - PAGE 9 Large Donation Helps Boost Livermore 4th of July Celebration Coffers Dean Schenone, Chairman/ works and annual 4th-of-July was the first to step up as a Silver expenses for the community wide CEO of FloraTech Landscape festivities. Sponsor at the $2,500 level. celebration. Management presented a $12,000 Pending final approval of With the two sponsorships, Pyro Spectaculars was secured check to Wendy Weathers, Chair- appropriate approvals and per- community donations, t-shirt as the fireworks vendor with a person Livermore Fireworks mits, the 2013 celebration will sales, and proceeds from a March 50% deposit made in early April; Community Committee last move to Las Positas College. 2012 fundraiser, over $27,000 the balance is due July 5th. Friday FloraTech Landscape The sponsorship from FloraTech in private funds has been raised Due to budget cuts, the annual Management, a locally owned significantly contributes to the to date. July 4th tradition was canceled and operated full service land- required private funding. In total, $46,000 in private in 2010, so in January a group scape management and construc- FloraTech becomes the sec- funding is needed to cover ex- of community members joined tion company, is taking a lead ond sponsor of the Livermore penses prior to the event. Park- together to return the July 4th sponsorship roll in the efforts to Fireworks. Al Phillips, Candidate ing and entrance fees on July fireworks and community cel- bring back the Livermore Fire- for State Assembly District 16, 4th will cover the remaining ebration. Working in partnership with the City of Livermore and the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District, plans are being finalized for the day’s celebra- tion. Twilight Jaunt for Youth and Families at Tri-Val- students and parents are invited to Information on donations can The Livermore Area Recreation ley Community Foundation, joined Las Positas College’s 1st Annual be obtained at (925) 290-8295, Photo - Doug Jorgensen and Park District ranger staff will forces with Paul Rubio, owner of Elite Major, Career and Employment Fair www.livermorefireworks.org, or Wendy Weathers accept a check from Dean Schenone. The lead a Twilight Jaunt on Sat., April Training Center, to help employ local from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, www.facebook.com/Livermore- 28. Meet Ranger Amy Wolitzer at youth through the Foundation’s Sum- April 26, on the central walkway on money will help pay for the annual 4th of July celebration. mer Youth Employment Program. “In fireworks 7:45 p.m. at the nature area entrance campus near the Barbara Fracisco to Sycamore Grove Park. a time when the economy is tough, Mertes Center for the Arts. The program will start with a talk Paul got tougher, and literally rolled “Students will have the opportu- about some of the critters that wake up his sleeves and used his hands. It nity to explore majors and careers up late in the day and take over the is fantastic to collaborate with local that appeal to them, as well as get night shift in the parks. Then take a businesses in our community that the chance to talk to some employers walk to see if some of these critters work on the front lines with youth, in the area,” said Counselor and Fair can be spotted. This is a leisurely walk and teach them about healthy living Coordinator Heike Gecox. for families with children, however and discipline,” said Ortiz. Professionals and representatives The youth will not only be it will not be traveling on paved employed at Elite Training Center, from four-year colleges, including paths, so no strollers please. Dress they will also be taught the values of California State University East Bay, appropriately for the weather, and living a healthy life style and learn will join Las Positas College instruc- wear comfortable shoes. Flashlights some great exercise routines. “I truly tors to help students understand op- are not needed. This program will last believe by giving our youth a place portunities in different major fields approximately one and a half hours. to work, we are keeping them off the of study and options for transfer to Call for reservations at 925-960- streets and out of trouble. In addition, four-year colleges, Gecox said. 2400. No scout groups, please. we are teaching them good work eth- Admission is free. Parking is $2; There is a $5 per vehicle parking ics, how to be good role models, and purchase day permits at the machines fee at either entrance to Sycamore the importance of helping the younger in parking lots on campus. For more Grove Park. A $2 donation is re- generation,” said Rubio. information, please contact Heike quested to help support the programs Elite Training Center leaves its Gecox at (925) 424-1400 or visit unless other fees are specified. Par- doors open from 7:00 p.m. on and the college website at www.lasposi- ticipants may call 925-960-2400 for provides boxing lessons from ages tascollege.edu. more information. 17 and under for free. Las Positas College is located at On April 18, Rubio began an 3000 Campus Hill Drive in Liver- Anti- Bullying Campaign at Mohr more. Dublin Historian and Elementary School. He spoke to the Poet Laureate Sought fourth and fifth grade boys about bul- Bike Mobile Program The City of Dublin is seeking lying, and raised their awareness of The Alameda County Transporta- candidates for two volunteer positions its harmful effects. The presentation tion Commission (Alameda CTC) within the Parks and Community made the youth think about bullying and the Metropolitan Transportation Services Department. and how it can hurt someone physi- cally and mentally. The funds Paul Commission (MTC) with partner The first position is a City Histo- Cycles of Change will launch the rian. The person selected will serve receives for his presentations go to a Photo - Doug Jorgensen new children’s scholarship program new BikeMobile program and the as a public advocate and researcher newly designed BikeMobile vehicle in matters pertaining to Dublin’s his- offered by the Elite Training Center. EVERY 15 MINUTES PROGRAM - The Pleasanton Unified School District and the Pleasanton Police The program helps youth aged 17 on April 24. The BikeMobile and tory. Candidates for City Historian its bicycle mechanic staff will visit Department staged the “Every 15 Minutes” program at Foothill High School last Thursday. The must be a resident of Dublin or the and younger who are going through program is a high impact anti-DUI event, which derives its name from the frequency at which a difficult and stressful challenges in schools and community organiza- descendent of Dublin family, be age tions and events to deliver no-cost 18 or older, be a published author or their lives. person is killed in an alcohol or drug related collision in the United States. The program is designed The Foundation’s Summer Youth hands-on bicycle repair and bicycle willing to publish, be willing to serve safety training to promote riding bikes to teach young adults about the dangers and consequences of driving under the influence of as a resource to the Heritage and Employment Program is a way for alcohol or drugs. It is directed at high school juniors and seniors. The presentation includes a youth to become involved in the to school. While Alameda County Cultural Arts Division, and possess children are the primary beneficiaries, knowledge of the City and its history, community, gain work experience, mock fatal traffic collision, which simulates a DUI crash in which some young adults are killed. the BikeMobile will also reach out Paramedics, firefighters and police officers handle the mock crash just as they would the real as demonstrated through writing and motivation, build strong relation- to interested parents, teachers and research. ships with employers, and learn how community members, especially in thing. Juniors and seniors observe the emergency crews in action and witness the arrest of the The second position is a Poet to network. low-income communities. Laureate. The person selected for intoxicated driver. Following the mock event, an assembly was held to discuss what students BikeMobile Fix-a-Thons are had observed. this position will serve as a public pre-arranged using an online signup advocate for the appreciation and Avoid the 21 Extra police officers in Em- form at www.bike-mobile.org. On the advancement of the literary arts for designated day, students bring their the City of Dublin. Candidates for eryville, Fremont, Oakland, Pleasan- ton and Union City as well as at Cal bikes to the BikeMobile, recogniz- Poet Laureate must be a resident of able by its bright graphics, parked at Dublin or work in Dublin, be age 18 State East Bay, the East Bay Regional Parks District and UC Berkeley will their school or other pre-determined Las Positas Offers New Online Marketing Course or older, and be a published poet or location. BikeMobile staff supply The Las Positas College Com- be willing to publish poetry. be on the lookout for impaired drivers discussion with the instructor about the course, please visit the over the Cinco de Mayo weekend. parts and expertise to help youth munity Education Program will and other participants. Other Community Education website Both the City Historian and Poet repair their bikes. Safety-essential Laureate are volunteer positions and “Have you ever wanted to save offer a new online course, Ad- linked on the Las Positas College a life?” asks Lt. Ava Garavatti of accessories, such as locks, lights courses in the Mobile Market- will serve a two-year term. Interested and bike helmets, are also available vanced Mobile Marketing, which ing Certificate Program include homepage at www.laspositascol- applicants for either position may the Livermore police, Avoid the 21 coordinator. “Volunteer to be the to increase bike safety, and encour- is part of the Mobile Marketing Creating Cell Phone Apps for lege.edu, or contact Community apply by submitting an applica- age children’s enthusiasm for riding Certificate Program. This class tion form and related supplemental designated sober driver who will ferry Business and Introduction to Education Program Coordinator everyone around safely.” bikes to school. and all classes in Community Mobile Marketing. Frances De Nisco at (925) 424- documents. The BikeMobile is a pilot program The application deadline is 5:00 The multi-jurisdictional crack- Education are not offered for 1467. down focuses on holidays that managed under the Alameda CTC’s “Mobile marketing is such p.m. on Friday, May 11, 2012. Ap- Safe Routes to Schools (SR2S) pro- college credit. a big trend that it is becoming plications can be downloaded at many people traditionally celebrate by drinking alcohol. It covered St. gram that will run through November The one-month online course, critical for businesses,” said http://www.dublin.ca.gov/index. 2013. The Alameda County SR2S which begins the week of June 4, aspx?NID=251 (click on Dublin City Patrick’s Day last month and will be course instructor and mobile on the roads again over the Memorial program, started by Alameda CTC will cover strategy and introduc- marketing expert Simon Salt. Salt Historian or Dublin Poet Laureate) Day weekend, with Independence in 2007, continues to reduce traffic Obituary/ or call (925) 556-4500 for more tion including types of platforms is a blogger, writer, entrepreneur Day to follow. congestion and promote healthy hab- to use, how to design a campaign information. Funding for Avoid the 21’s extra its by working with educators, parents and CEO of the Marketing Com- Memorium enforcement comes from a California and kids to increase walking, biking and how to execute and measure munications Agency IncSlingers. Help for At Risk Youth Office of Traffic Safety grant through and carpooling to school. Seventy success. Participants will be able He speaks nationally on the topic Policies Elite Training Center in Pleasan- the National Highway Traffic Safety percent of the schools to be visited to log into the course at any time of social media and is author ton is collaborating with the Tri-Val- Administration. by the BikeMobile are partners in from any computer. This course of the book, “Social Location ley Community Foundation to help the SR2S program. The BikeMobile includes audio lectures by the Obituaries are published in at-risk and foster care youth. will also visit non-SR2S schools, Marketing.” Career and Employment instructor with slides, videos, To register and learn more The Independent at no charge. Aaron Ortiz, Program Director College students, high school community centers, parks and local events across the county. online readings and ongoing There is a small charge for

photographs in the obituaries.

Memorium ads can also Gary D. Presley and many other clubs throughout Rawhide Road, Rocklin, CA and enjoyed cooking throughout be placed in Resident of Livermore the United States. He loved to 95677 or at http://www.shoot- his life. In 1958 Jim moved to The Independent Gary passed away peacefully dove hunt in Mexico with his cyssa.org. Livermore. when families want to honor at home on April 18, 2012, with closest friends. He was also a fan Jim met his wife Judy at the his wife by his side. Born Octo- of his “boys,” the San Francisco Jim D. Rice local bowling alley. They had the memories of their loved ber 24th, 1944, Gary was raised Giants, spending many summer June 27, 1935 – April 22, 2012 much in common, including ones. There is a charge for in Newark, California. days by the pool listening to Jim D. Rice passed away on bowling, dancing, playing cards memorium ads, based After attending Washington baseball games and barbequing April 22, 2012 at age 76. He is and traveling. High School, Gary joined the with family and friends. survived by his loving family: Jim worked at California on the size of the ad. Army and served for three years. Gary was predeceased by his Water Service in Livermore for He was honorably discharged in father, Don, and his mother, Bon- 33 years, retiring in 1992. He Please send an email to May of 1965. Once discharged, nie. Gary is survived by his wife was a member of the Eagles club Gary joined Pacific, Gas, and of 24 years, Ruth; his daughter, for several years. He enjoyed [email protected] Electric. He worked for PG&E Jenella; his brother, Arlan and gardening, fishing and playing to receive additional until his retirement after 45 years wife Paulette; mother-in-law, Ro- softball as a pitcher on the Cal information. of service. berta Kihle; sister-in-laws, Karen Water team for two seasons and He married Ruth Ann (Kihle) (Shawn) Coleman and Sharen especially enjoyed spending time in August of 1987 and in 1988 (Tom) Brannon; his niece, Darcy with his loved ones. they had a beautiful daughter, Presley-Cuaron (Tim); nephews, devoted wife Judy, daughter Jim had a passion for playing Jenella. Matt Presley (Michelle); and Marcia Bernacil, son-in-law Art games and cards. He was very Gary was an avid sportsman. Craig Hall (Julian); their chil- Bernacil, son Jim Rice, daughter- social, loved entertaining people He was known in the Fremont/ dren and many other dear family in-law Amber Rice, grandsons with his hilarious sense of humor, Hayward area in the late 1960s members. Michael and Todd Bernacil, and told many stories and jokes. and the 1970s as a well-respected Friends and family attended a Jesse Rice and granddaughter Jim will be sorely missed by fast pitch softball player. In his Celebration of Life on Wednes- Randi Rice. many friends and loved ones. retirement years, he resumed his day, April 25, 2012, at the Liver- Jim was born in Indepen- Memorial services will be golf game and loved to hit the more Rod and Gun Club in dence, Kansas. He enjoyed telling held on Friday, May 4 at Cal- greens early on Friday mornings. Livermore. stories to his family and friends laghan Mortuary in Livermore His true love, though, was trap- Donations can be made by about his youthful adventures. At at 1:00pm. shooting and hunting! He earned those wishing to do so in Gary’s age 20 Jim enlisted in the U.S. many belt buckles, awards, and name to the California Youth Army and served 4 years. He had trophies for his trapshooting Shooting Sports Association many stories to tell about military skills and volunteer services at (Livermore Rod and Gun Junior life. He was a cook in the army the Livermore Rod and Gun club Trapshooting Program), 3957 PAGE 10 - The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012 RANCHERS (continued from page one) sor of Rangeland Ecology and “Tim and other ranchers in the Management Lynn Huntsinger. Alameda, Contra Costa and “More people enjoy looking at Marin counties have been very cows than you would think!” generous in hosting field trips for The event was co-sponsored our students.” by the California Farm Bureau, The Leopold Conservation Sustainable Conservation (a San Award honors landowners who Francisco-based non-profit that work ceaselessly to paint beauti- advances natural-resource stew- ful landscapes across the nation. ardship), and the Sand County Given in honor of Aldo Leopold, Foundation (a Wisconsin-based the award’s purpose is to recog- organization that uses science, nize extraordinary achievement ethics and incentives to help A large contingent toured the Koopmann Ranch last Friday to learn about environmental practices on the land. in voluntary conservation, inspire owners improve their land). other landowners in their com- “To me, the most compelling munities through these examples, story of the day was Tim and Me- ments were established to per- A second easement of 107 To enable more dispersed Bluebird. and provide a visible forum linda Koopmann’s unwavering petually protect critical wildlife acres protects Viola (Johnny grazing, Koopmann installed a Koopmann pointed to a leafy where leaders from the agricul- desire to keep their working lands and plant habitats. Jump Up) wildflowers, the only solar-powered water distribution oak tree standing alone on a tural community are recognized working through the creative use A 30-acre easement comprises host plant of the federally-en- system that pumps water from a hill. “That’s home to a pair of as conservation leaders outside of easements,” said Sand County the California Tiger Salamander dangered Callippe Silverspot partially-underground tank to a nesting Golden Eagles,” he said. of the industry. In 1949, Leopold Foundation Director of Outreach Habitat complete with a natural- Butterfly. confluence of elevated pastures. “They marry for life. We have a called for an ethical relationship Kevin Kiley. ly-occurring pond sitting below By preserving areas in which “Cattle by nature are lazy pretty good record of how their between people and the land they In the 1990s, soaring inheri- a landslip that appeared shortly vulnerable species co-exist har- animals,” said Koopmann. “They marriage has gone, and it’s gone own and manage, which he said tance taxes caused third-genera- after the 1906 San Francisco moniously with well-managed graze around their water source. pretty well. The nest is about 10 was “an evolutionary possibility tion owner Koopmann to consid- Earthquake. grazing (an important tool in I’m a fan of solar panels and times the size it was originally - and an ecological necessity.” er selling his ranch. “But we had turning the surface soil), the pumps. I think they’re the great- about the size now of a VW Bug. “The thing that struck me too much blood, sweat and tears The black salamander’s yel- Koopmann’s mitigation projects est things in the world. I can I can just hear the female nagging about the day, was the great invested to do that,” said Koop- low spots and stripes not only illustrate the benefits associ- pump water to high, low and to get more rooms added on.” win-win ideas being practiced on mann, noting that two easements resemble a tiger’s markings, but ated with collaboration among mid-range pastures, which allows Like the Leopold Conser- this ranch,” said attendee Karen enabled his family to pay estate outline the amphibian’s wide environmental, public and pri- me to do a better job of creating vation Award Environmental Grove. “The property itself is an taxes and continue working and mouth resulting in the appearance vate business, and agricultural grazing distribution.” Stewardship Tour, the Koopmann absolute gem - incredible, scenic conserving his lands. of a jaunty and endearing grin. interests. As a boon to the ranch’s bird ranch hosts tours for students California at its best - rolling California Rangeland Trust, Yet this discriminating species “People often think that cattle population, the concrete watering and organizations to demonstrate hills, oak and sycamore trees, a non-profit organization that can only survive in unique - and ranching is bad for the environ- troughs include wildlife escape rangeland stewardship. lush valleys and lots of critters. works closely with landowners now extremely rare - habitats, ment but, in fact, it can be quite ramps. Bird boxes, maintained “We have a range science “And I love how the conserva- to protect and enhance the envi- giving it little to smile about. the opposite,” said Ashley Boren, and monitored by the Ohlone graduate program at Berkeley, tion easements are used to protect ronmental and economic benefits “The pond is not very big. It’s Executive Director of Sustainable Audubon Society, dot the prop- and numerous undergraduates endangered species - both the that working rangelands provide, not very pretty, but it’s home to Conservation. “Cattle ranching erty providing housing for the studying natural resources and California Tiger Salamander and holds two mitigation easements these shy little creatures,” said can increase species’ diversity blue and rust colored Western management,” said Huntsinger. the California Rancher.” totaling 137 acres. Both ease- Koopmann. considerably.” FACILITIES (continued from page one) had been to school, and learned Robinson. ogy, and a variety of small spaces ects, said one of the consultants. school, everyone must take a said Knaggs. from educators that “there is only LOOKING AT HABITATS in classrooms and throughout At American Canyon High sound studio class to graduate, Knaggs said that the district one correct answer.” FOR LEARNING the school. There students can School in the North Bay, some even if they are not in multimedia configured one of its schools That approach is part of a Those habitats that Robinson “brainstorm, design, create, ex- classes have two teachers, and arts or performing arts. to install walls after years of lock-step educational paradigm talks about are the reason for the plore and showcase their learn- 60 students. There is a moveable The consultants said that from rooms without walls, because that was begun in the 19th cen- FMPC. The committee is looking ing,” said a slide summarizing wall, so they can teach between their own business, they know of a change in educational style tury, at the dawn of the Industrial at how to build and configure survey content. the two groups. Unlike the old that moving ahead in education is preference. Revolution. It continued in uni- Pleasanton’s schools of the fu- The summary pointed out that days with folding accordion “all about tech.” Schools need for “There is a danger in jumping versal public education into the ture, and how to modify existing the learning environments should walls, the new separators can roll students to be comfortable with into something like this,” said 20th century. schools to serve students, teach- “foster inquiry, exploration, up into the ceiling at the touch of the graphics and the resources. Knaggs. Some things have been The old factory system in ers and support staff better in dreaming, creating, project-based a button. MEMBERS RESPOND tried already, but “didn’t catch education, with its rigid process order to provide a 21st century learning, service-based learning, At New Technology High ON COLLABORATION on,” said Knaggs. and lecture-centered information, education. and global interaction.” School in Napa, there are com- After the slide show, commit- Superintendent Parvin Ah- might work for the old economy The consultants and district PHOTO TOUR mon areas, almost like an inter- tee members made comments. madi said that understanding with factories stamping out goods surveyed parents, teachers, sup- SHOWS DESIGNS net cafe, with eight classrooms One said that collaboration is why changes are made in the on an assembly line, but it won’t port staff, and students. The The LPA, Inc. representatives surrounding the space. There extremely important in learning. physical environment is impor- work in the new economy, with survey found that many of them showed slides of schools that are some movable tables and The more that people work to- tant. Collaboration takes time; it its continuing obsolescence of want to move to flexible class- are pioneering in redrawing the chairs, and some fixed places for gether in small groups, the more does not happen overnight. “You goods, procedures and ideas, said rooms that are easy to recon- space in classrooms to promote technology. comfortable they are, and the have to provide them the time,” Robinson. figure. the desire for flexibility that the The consultants put forth an more creative they become. They she said. The new economy is collab- There should be a switch from survey uncovered. economic point about South Ta- help each other, he said. The committee’s next meeting orative. The old one still calls the traditional teacher-focused They showcased a new school hoe High School arts and design Trevor Knaggs, president of will occur at 5 p.m. on May 3 in collaboration “cheating,” be- class, with the students facing in San Diego. It will occupy the academy. The school district the teachers union, said that in his the school board meeting room at cause the expectation is that the that teacher, to a student-focused sixth and seventh floors in the had no money coming to it from own room, where he has taught district headquarters. The public student will complete his or her classroom, where students work city’s public library. The room state bond eligibility to construct languages, to be able to configure is invited to attend. own work, said Robinson. collaboratively on projects, and layouts include shared common buildings, so it cobbled together it differently in five seconds is The committee changed the Robinson said that most “great have the ability to circulate freely areas and small breakout rooms. joint use grants and leveraged good. “A lot of teachers will jump last of its six scheduled meetings learning happens in groups.” in doing their work. Teachers don’t own a room. career tech money to accomplish on this. However, there is a whole from June to the fall. Educational change is “about the The implication is that there They have office areas. With what they wanted. spectrum of teacher. There will culture of our institutions, and should be a school infrastructure more flexible space, students can South Lake Tahoe has another be some need to recognize others the habitats they occupy,” said that supports evolving technol- undertake a wider variety of proj- lesson for Pleasanton. At the are outside their comfort zone,” The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012 - PAGE 11

LEGAL NOTICES Lakeside Drive, Suite 907, This business is conducted by FERAL CAT FOUNDATION MERCHANDISE Oakland, CA 94612 NET- Cat & kitten adoptions now an Individual 115) ESTATE/ GARAGE/ REAL ESTATE FOR INFORMATION WORKING/SOUTH COUNTY at the new Livermore Petco The registrant began to trans- YARD SALES PLACING LEGAL BIDDERS CONFERENCE act business under the ficti- on Saturdays from 10:00AM Inland Valley Publishing NOTICES RFQ #900974 Mobile Commu- tious business name(s) listed to 2:30PM. We have many COMMUNITY GARAGE Co. Call 925-243-8000 nications/ Command Center, above on 1/1/2012. adorable, tame kittens that SALE Saturday 4/28 Client Code:04126-00001

Tuesday, May 1, 2012, 2:00 Signature of Registrants:s/: have been tested for FIV & 8:00AM- 3:00PM Re: Legal Notice for FICTITIOUS BUSINESS p.m. – Public Works Agency, C. A. Kupper FELV, altered & vaccinated. Valley Trails HOA in Classified Ads NAME STATEMENT 4825 Gleason Drive, Con- This statement was filed with We also have adult cats & Pleasanton The Federal Fair Housing Act, FILE NO. 462583 ference Room 405, Dublin, the County Clerk of Alameda ranch cats for adoption. Multiple Homes Title VII of the Civil Rights The following person(s) doing CA NETWORKING/NORTH on March 30, 2012. Expires Huge selection of Act of 1964, and state law business as: Kimchi House, EMPLOYMENT COUNTY BIDDERS CON- March 30, 2017. household items prohibit advertisements for 3170 Santa Rita Rd #A2, FERENCE RFQ #900974 The Independent Legal No. 65) HELP WANTED and more! housing and employment Pleasanton, CA 94566, is Mobile Communications/ 3226. Published April 26, DRIVERS NEEDED! Hopyard Rd to No. or So. that contain any preference, hereby registered by the fol- Command Center, Wednes- May 3, 10, 17, 2012. Tri-Valley Valley Trails Drive limitation or discrimination lowing owner(s): day, May 2, 2012, 10:00 a.m. Make Xtra money. based on protected classes, Hye Chong, 3226 Mandevilla ANIMALS 127) LOST/ FOUND – General Services Agency, Delivering phone books. including race, color, religion, Ct, Pleasanton, CA 94588 1401 Lakeside Drive, Room 2) CATS/ DOGS Must have drivers license, LOST sex, handicap, familial status This business is conducted by th 1105, 11 Floor, Oakland, own transportation, Red Poinsettia or national origin. IVPC does an Individual ADOPT A DOG OR CAT, for CA Responses Due by 2:00 w/ auto insurance. Clip Earring not knowingly accept any Mixed Signs in Most The registrant began to trans- adoption information contact pm on May 30, 2012 County Call now!! Lost downtown Livermore, advertisements that are in act business under the ficti- Valley Humane Society at Contact : Jennifer Chan 1-877-360-7183 Friday 12/16. If found, violation of the law. tious business name(s) listed (925)426-8656. Ngo (510) 208-9604 or via www.deliveryofphone please call above on N/A. Adopt a new best friend: (925)447-1762 Recent Housing Reports email: jennifer.ngo@acgov. books.com By Kelly DeYoreo Signature of Registrants:s/: org Attendance at Networking TVAR, the Tri-Valley Ani- NOTICES/ANNOUNCEMENTS Hye Chong Conference is Non-manda- mal Rescue, offers animals 56) ADULT CARE PLACE YOUR March saw a decline in the number of existing home sales, both This statement was filed with tory. Specifications regarding for adoption every Saturday Independent Contractors 155) NOTICES nationwide and in the state of California. the County Clerk of Alameda CLASSIFIED the above may be obtained and Sunday, excluding most Wanted. Senior Home “NOTICE TO READERS: Nationally, total existing home sales, which are completed transac- on March 7, 2012. Expires at the Alameda County GSA holidays. On Saturdays from Health Care. Must have ex- California law requires that IN THE March 7, 2017. Current Contracting Oppor- 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, dogs are perience. Senior Solutions, contractors taking jobs that to- INDEPENDENT tions that include single-family homes, townhomes, and condomini- The Independent Legal No. tunities Internet website at available at the Pleasanton Inc (925)443-3101. tal $500 or more (labor and/or ums, declined 2.6 percent from February to March. 3215. Published April 5, 12, Farmers Market at W. An- www.acgov.org. 160) BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY materials) be licensed by the In the state of California, sales in March were down 4.5 percent 19, 26, 2012. 4/26/12 gela and First Streets. Two Contractors State License Reach over 27,000 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS CNS-2299475# locations will showcase cats BE WARY of out of area Board. State law also requires homes by direct month-over-month compared to February. NAME STATEMENT THE INDEPENDENT Legal only: Petsmart in Dublin from companies. Check with the that contractors include their mail in Livermore, There were, however, some good signs in the most recent reports. FILE NO. 463281 No. 3223 12:00 to 4:00 and the Pet local Better Business Bureau license numbers on all adver- Compared to the same month a year ago, U.S. homes sales were up Extreme in Livermore from before you send money or Pleasanton, Dublin The following person(s) doing NOTICE of INVITING BIDS tising. Check your contractor’s 5.2 percent from the 4.26 million-unit pace in March 2011. That business as: Kali Kouture, 12:00 to 4:00. On Sundays, fees. Read and understand status at www.cslb.ca.gov and Sunol. Notice is hereby given that cats are available at Petsmart any contracts before you sign. marks the ninth straight month of higher homes sales compared to 1883 2nd Street, Liver- sealed competitive bids will or(800)321-CSLB (2752). more, CA 94550, is hereby in Dublin from 1:00 to 4:00, Shop around for rates. Unlicensed persons taking a year ago. be accepted in the office of and Pet Extreme in Livermore 925-243-8000 registered by the following TO PLACE A jobs less than $500 must the GSA-Purchasing Depart- from 12:00 to 4:00. For more Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of owner(s): CLASSIFIED AD state in their advertisements www.independent ment, County of Alameda, information, call Terry at (925) Realtors, said he believes the recovery is in the process of settling (1)Joseph M. Hill (2)Robin 1401 Lakeside Drive, Suite Call (925)243-8000 that they are not licensed by news.com A. Hill, 2061 Pleasant View 487-7279 or visit our website the Contractors State License into a higher level of home sales. “The recovery is happening though 907, Oakland, CA 94612 at www.tvar.org Lane, Livermore, CA 94550 NETWORKING BIDDERS Board.” not at a breakout pace, but we have seen nine consecutive months of This business is conducted by CONFERENCES for RFQ year-over-year sales increases,” he said. Husband and wife #900969 for Highland Hos- “Existing-home sales are moving up and down in a fairly narrow The registrant began to trans- pital (ATR) Project (Phase 1) act business under the ficti- Medical Equipment: Echo- range that is well above the level of activity during the first half of tious business name(s) listed cardiography System South last year. With job growth, low interest rates, bargain home prices above on N/A. County - Thursday, May 3, and an improving economy, the pent-up demand is coming to market Signature of Registrants:s/: 2012, 10:00 a.m. at Fremont Robin A. Hill Public Library, Fukaya Room and we expect housing to be notably better this year.” This statement was filed with B, 2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fre- One issue limiting home sales in various parts of the country is the County Clerk of Alameda mont, CA and North County on March 27, 2012. Expires the continuing lack of supply of available homes. Total housing - Friday, May 4, 2012, 2:00 inventory at the end of March declined 1.3 percent, to a total of March 27, 2017. p.m. at General Services The Independent Legal No. Agency, Room 1107, 11th 2.37 million homes. The number of homes offered for sale is 21.8 3216. Published April 5, 12, Floor, 1401 Lakeside Drive, percent below a year ago and well below the record of 4.04 million 19, 26, 2012. Oakland, CA Responses in July 2007. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Due by 2:00 pm on June 12, NAME STATEMENT 2012 County Contact: Kai Yun said, “We were expecting a seasonal increase in home list- FILE NO. 463397 Moore (510) 208-4882 or via ings, but a lack of inventory has suddenly become an issue in several The following person(s) doing email: kai.moore@acgov. markets with not enough homes for sale in relation to buyer interest. business as: Goodjet, 21889 org Attendance at Networking Home sales could be held back because of supply factors and not by Skywest Dr., Hayward, CA Conference is Non-manda- 94541, is hereby registered by tory. Specifications regarding demand – we’re already seeing this in the Western states.” the following owner(s): the above may be obtained In California, home sales declined in March from February’s SP Aviation, Inc., 21889 at the Alameda County GSA pace, but the median home price snapped a 16-month annual price Skywest Dr., Hayward, CA Current Contracting Oppor- 94541 tunities Internet website at decline and posted its first year-over-year gain since the beginning This business is conducted by www.acgov.org. of the housing slump. a Corporation 4/26/12 “While home sales were down statewide, the housing market The registrant began to trans- CNS-2301075# act business under the ficti- THE INDEPENDENT Legal continued to perform at a solid pace by historical standards. In fact, tious business name(s) listed No. 3224 sales jumped significantly in most regions of the state, with many above on N/A. NOTICE of INVITING BIDS areas experiencing double-digit gains,” said California Association Signature of Registrants:s/: Notice is hereby given that of Realtors President LeFrancis Arnold. “Tight inventory and robust Darrin Perdue, President, sealed competitive bids will home sales, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area, fueled the CEO be accepted in the office of This statement was filed with the GSA-Purchasing Depart- substantial increase in the March median home price.” the County Clerk of Alameda ment, County of Alameda, The San Francisco Bay Area, in fact, saw quite a few positive on March 29, 2012. Expires 1401 Lakeside Drive, Suite signs. Existing homes sales were up an impressive 37.4 percent March 29, 2017. 907, Oakland, CA 94612 The Independent Legal No. NETWORKING BIDDERS over February. Year over year sales also saw an increase of 0.7 3217. Published April 5, 12, CONFERENCES for RFQ percent from 2011. March median prices rose 9.1 percent from the 19, 26, 2012. #900975 for Furniture, Fix- previous month. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS tures and Equipment for The limited supply of available homes is having an impact on Cali- NAME STATEMENT the Ashland Youth Center FILE NO. 463462 South County - Tuesday, fornia sales. “Housing inventory remains extremely tight throughout The following person(s) doing May 8, 2012, 10:00 a.m. at the state and at levels severely under normal market conditions and business as: FIT-2-B-TIED, Castro Valley Library, Can- historical averages,” said Leslie Appleton-Young, chief economist 5273 Felicia Ave, Liver- yon-Chabot Room, 3600 more, CA 94550, is hereby Norbridge Avenue, Castro for the California Association of Realtors. registered by the following Valley, CA and North County In Alameda County, the number of single family homes for sale owner(s): - Wednesday, May 9, 2012, was 1,547 as of March 31, 2012, only 58 percent of the number for Suzanne Andreasen, 5273 2:00 p.m. at General Services sale in March, 2011. Livermore’s inventory of single family homes Felicia Ave, Livermore, CA Agency, Room 1105, 11th 94550 Floor, 1401 Lakeside Drive, for sale is down 41 percent from a year ago, Pleasanton is down 34 This business is conducted by Oakland, CA Responses percent, and Dublin has dropped 42 percent. an Individual Due by 2:00 pm on May Low interest rates, combined with affordable prices, continue to be The registrant began to trans- 25, 2012 County Contact: act business under the ficti- Jeannise Gonzalez (510) a force moving more potential home buyers into the market, compet- tious business name(s) listed 208-9612 or via email: jean- ing for fewer homes. A recent CNN Money article pointed out that above on N/A. [email protected] “For today’s homebuyers, the weight of the monthly mortgage bill Signature of Registrants:s/: Attendance at Networking is the lightest it’s been in decades. In 98 out of the top 100 metro Suzanne Andreasen, Owner Conference is Non-manda- This statement was filed with tory. Specifications regarding areas, it’s now cheaper to buy than rent.” the County Clerk of Alameda the above may be obtained Housing analyst Nishu Sood tracks housing costs for Deutsche on March 30, 2012. Expires at the Alameda County GSA Bank. Sood says that historically, the cost of renting an apartment March 30, 2017. Current Contracting Oppor- The Independent Legal No. tunities Internet website at has been about 10 percent lower than the tax-adjusted cost of own- 3220. Published April 19, www.acgov.org. ing a home. 26, May 3, 10, 2012. 4/26/12 That 10 percent difference began to decline in 2010, and disap- CNS-2301282# FICTITIOUS BUSINESS THE INDEPENDENT Legal peared completely in 2011. By the end of 2011, Sood found that the NAME STATEMENT No. 3225 average cost of renting was about 15 percent higher than owning. FILE NO. 463881 The following person(s) doing FICTITIOUS BUSINESS He wrote, “conditions are overwhelming in favor of buying now. It business as: (1)H & K Process NAME STATEMENT is unequivocal.” Service (2)Parra Attorney FILE NO. 463458 “If you have good credit,” says IHS Global Insight economist Support Service, 819 Brennan The following person(s) do- Way, Livermore, CA 94550, ing business as: CK Skin, Patrick Newport, “this is the best time in 40 years to buy.” is hereby registered by the 153 So. L St., Livermore, CA Kelly DeYoreo is a Realtor with following owner(s): 94550, is hereby registered by Prudential California Realty, Livermore Kay Parra, 819 Brennan Way, the following owner(s): Livermore, CA 94550 Catherine A. Kupper, 841 This business is conducted by Jefferson Ave., Livermore, an Individual CA 94550 The registrant began to trans- act business under the ficti- Coldwell Banker Combines Offices tious business name(s) listed Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage has announced that above on 4/18/2007. agents from its Livermore and Pleasanton offices will join forces in Signature of Registrants:s/: one large Tri-Valley real estate office in Pleasanton. Kay Parra, Owner This statement was filed with Agents currently working in Livermore are in the process of tran- the County Clerk of Alameda sitioning to the company’s existing Pleasanton office located at 5980 on April 11, 2012. Expires Stoneridge Dr. The office will continue being led by veteran manager April 11, 2017. Will Butler and will consist of approximately 70 of the area’s most The Independent Legal No. 3221. Published April 19, experienced real estate professionals. 26, May 3, 10, 2012. “We are excited about the merger of our Livermore and Pleasanton FICTITIOUS BUSINESS offices and our agents joining forces,” said Rick Turley, president of NAME STATEMENT Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. “We’re bringing together FILE NO. 463154 the leading experts in Tri-Valley real estate to create one solid team The following person(s) do- of agents. That synergy of having these talented Realtors all work- ing business as: Silver Lake Band Camp, 3899 California ing together is critical in providing the best possible service to our Way, Livermore, CA 94550, local clientele.” is hereby registered by the Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage’s Pleasanton office following owner(s): is located at 5980 Stoneridge Dr. Ste. 122 and can be reached at Jaybird Productions, 3899 California Way, Livermore, 925.847.2200. CA 94550 This business is conducted by a Corporation The registrant began to trans- act business under the ficti- tious business name(s) listed above on N/A. Signature of Registrants:s/: PLACE YOUR Jason S. Bury, President This statement was filed with CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE/CALL IN the County Clerk of Alameda on March 23, 2012. Expires March 23, 2017. Reach over 27,000 homes The Independent Legal No. The Independent by direct mail in Livermore, 3222. Published April 19, 26, May 3, 10, 2012. www.independentnews.com Pleasanton, Dublin & Sunol. NOTICE of INVITING BIDS Notice is hereby given that sealed competitive bids will be accepted in the office of the GSA-Purchasing Department, County of Alameda, 1401 PAGE 12 - The Independent, APRIL 26, 2012 Original Work to Lead Off California Symphony Program International Violin Sensation Lara St. John Featured in Second Work

downtown Livermore. The ticket office is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. To purchase tickets call 925-373-6800 or visit www. bankheadtheater.org

Pictured are (left) violinist L a r a S t . J o h n a n d Composer-in-Residence D.J. Sparr.

By Carol Graham asset given that composers rarely ny’s YACR,” said Sparr. “I D.J. Sparr recalls a surreal have the chance to hear and ac- always looked at this residency moment preparing for a perfor- cordingly revise their works in as something I would like to be mance in Italy. progress, say experts. a part of.” “I was performing an electric Sparr’s “Optima Vota: over- Collins, who has directed the guitar concerto with the Filar- ture fantasia” will open the Symphony since January, 2011, monica Arturo Toscanini,” he Symphony’s concert at Liver- said, “I’m focused on helping said. “We played one night in more’s Bankhead Theater on the Symphony be sustainable by a modern concert hall in Parma. Friday, May 4 at 8 p.m. It is also being relevant to the community. The next night we were to play an the debut of the Symphony in Our vision is to integrate the opera house in Piacenza. Livermore. Since 1990, the Cali- YACR program and our existing “Standing onstage in the opera fornia Symphony has been the Music in the Schools program house, warming up on the electric resident professional orchestra (an interactive music education guitar with no one around, I had of the Lesher Center for the Arts and outreach program calling a moment of reflection that this in Walnut Creek. for the YACR to visit schools was a bit of a crazy moment!” “I don’t think in terms of and present composition labs for Sparr, the California Sym- favorites about the pieces I’ve the students) and our new Sound phony’s current Young Ameri- already written,” said Sparr, age Minds program - the El Sistema- can Composer-in-Residence 36. “Every now and then I go inspired program that calls for a (YACR), was told he was the first back to older pieces to see if I can violin in the hands of every first person to play an electric guitar find common threads that repre- grader.” solo there. sent the sound I want to develop, It was at five-years-old that California Symphony’s ex- or to see how I might handle Sparr began guitar lessons after ecutive director Walter Collins material differently now that I’m receiving a toy ukulele and gui- said Sparr, “D.J. represents the not as personally involved with a tar from his great-grandmother, ideal choice for this program. piece. For right now, my favorite Violet Bond. He later earned His work is refreshing, alterna- is Optima Vota - written for the his Master of Music and Doctor tive and exciting. We know audi- California Symphony.” of Music Arts degrees from the ences will be intrigued to follow San Francisco Symphony’s University of Michigan. Cur- along as he creates new works Resident Conductor, Maestro rently living in Richmond, VA, and unveils them to us. He is an Donato Cabrera will conduct Sparr finds inspiration in many emerging American composer Sparr’s orchestra composition, places, including at home. who is already garnering top followed by international violin “My amazing wife Kimberly international awards.” sensation Lara St. John per- is a world-class violist,” he said. The Symphony’s critically- forming Tchaikovsky’s Violin “Her level of musicianship is so acclaimed YACR program offers Concerto, and the CS Orchestra high that it inspires me to rise to composers an opportunity to Festival Chorus and soloists per- another level as a composer.” work with a professional orches- forming Beethoven’s epic Ninth Is Sparr looking forward to tra in a two-year residency during Symphony. the premiere of his Optima Vota? which time the Symphony com- Launched in 1991, the highly- He said, “I am always excited missions and performs one work competitive YACR program has when my pieces come to life in per season. honored many award-winning the hands of the great musicians Recorded rehearsals offer di- young composers. “I was actu- that I have the good fortune to rect feedback from the California ally a roommate of (Pulitzer work with.” Symphony conductors, musicians prize-winning) Kevin Puts when The Bankhead Theater is and music librarian - a significant he was the California Sympho- located at 2400 First Street in THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012

THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION A

Capitol Steps Returns with Bipartisan Political Satire Tailored for an Election Year

The bipartisan comedy group The Capitol Steps will make its annual return to the Bankhead Theater on May 8 with their per- spective on everything from the candidates’ positions to their polls, and legislative bills to bailouts. With a collective total of 62 years serving on both sides of the Hill, Capitol Steps members combine a wealth of experience with musical, acting, improv and pure comedic talent. They are notoriously gifted Comedy @Firehouse Arts at finding humor in just how our political system works – both for and against us. Continues with Don Friesen The Capitol Steps will appear Pleasanton’s Firehouse Arts at the Bankhead Theater for one Center will continue its Comedy @ night only on Tuesday evening, Firehouse Arts series on Thursday, May 8, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets May 10, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. with range from $39 to $62 for adults high-energy comedian Don Friesen and $14 for students. and opening act, Jason Love. The Capitol Steps never suffer The Firehouse Arts Center is from a shortage of material, and located at 4444 Railroad Avenue particularly not in an election year A routine on imigration performed by The Capitol Steps. in downtown Pleasanton. that has already provided such rich Don Friesen’s act is described as fodder for political satire. “smart and savvy, highly-caffein- Regardless of who is already ated comedy," a satire of his life for a holiday party. Finding ample on May 8, 2012 is offered as part in office, or who is running to get as a suburban husband and father humor in their day-to-day work on of the LVPAC Presents series, fea- of two with little money in the there, the Steps’ material is con- Capitol Hill, they took a comic ap- turing acclaimed artists in music, bank. He pokes fun at technology stantly fresh and reflects the latest proach and skewered, as equitably dance and other performing arts. problems, marriage and parenting, headlines. Always in pursuit of any as possible, the very places and Remaining programs in the 2011- angle that appeals to the universal people they worked for. mixed with eclectic impressions Pictured are comedians Don 2012 season include country rock of John Lithgow, Gary Busey and sense of the ridiculous, they pro- Soon they were hired for other pioneers Pure Prairie League on Dr. Phil, as he exploits his own Friesen (top photo) and Jason claim their performance to be the events and by 1988 they were no May 17th, the voices of Chanti- faults and taps into the humanity Love. only place in America where two longer working on Capitol Hill, cleer in a program of music that in everyone. has appeared on television’s Last candidates running for President but laughing at it full time. The explores the many facets of love Friesen is a two-time winner Comic Standing and Comedy will appear onstage together ... Steps have performed in all 50 on May 20th. In conjunction with of the San Francisco International Central. He has entertained at singing show tunes. states and for five US presidents in the 94th Annual Livermore Rodeo Comedy Competition, the only prominent comedy venues, col- In a constantly shifting political both Democratic and Republican weekend, the contemporary coun- comedian to have claimed the title leges and universities throughout landscape where the latest news administrations. try sounds of Buffalo Rome on twice. An engaging and “clean” the United States and for American feed can have an immediate ef- Over the years they have re- Friday June 8th, followed by the comic, Friesen’s television ap- armed forces troops overseas. fect on their act, members have leased 32 comedy albums, includ- return of Grammy Award-winning pearances have included Live at Tickets are $15 for general been known to update the show ing their most recent, “Desperate local favorite Asleep at the Wheel Gotham, Comics Unleashed, Later, admission on a first-come, first- on-the-fly, learning new lines and Housemembers,” featuring songs Friday Nights, and The Martin on Saturday June 9th are featured. served basis. Tickets may be pur- revising skits backstage before the and their tongue-twisting, letter- Short Show. He recently recorded The Bankhead Theater is lo- chased online at www.firehouse- show opens. switching ditties called Lirty Dies. cated at 2400 First Street in Down- a Showtime special for release later arts.org up to three hours prior According to founding mem- They have been widely featured town Livermore. The ticket office this year. to the performance, by phone at ber Elaina Newport, The Capitol Opener Jason Love is a Los on television, as well as in their is open Tuesday through Saturday (925) 931-4848, or in person at the Steps began in 1981 when a few “Politics Takes a Holiday” specials Angeles-based standup comic, Firehouse Arts Center Box Office. from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. To writer, cartoonist, and nationally congressional staffers were asked on National Public Radio. purchase tickets call 925-373-6800 The entrance to free parking is on to come up with the entertainment syndicated humor columnist who Spring Street near First Street. The Capitol Steps performance or visit www.bankheadtheater.org

2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012 LEA Winners Hear About Art's Intrinsic Value By Ron McNicoll mail telling you if you won. This Young musicians, visual artists competition made me feel very ap- and writers presented samples of preciated because the judges talked their prize-winning work to an with me, got to know me and gave audience of parents, teachers and me direct feedback. I am really community members at the Fire- honored to receive the award and house Arts Theater. The young share it with another musician who people were winners of the Youth is so good.” Excellence in Arts (YEA) awards LITERARY WINNERS given each year by the Pleasanton PRAISED BY OTT Cultural Arts Council (PCAC). Literary prize winners were PCAC awards cash scholarships sixth-grader Nicolas Massie for his to the winners who are selected fol- short story about how an elf saved lowing auditions in front of judges. football at Santa's workshop, and The program on April 19 was Andrea Deng, a senior at Smador emceed by PCAC representative Valley who won the Max Biggs and long time arts activist David Literary Award. Deng's story was Wright. a reflective, introverted piece. Wright told the winners that Winning for her story, “Spar- even if they don't go on to live row on the Wall” was a big sur- professional lives in their chosen Pictured are PCAC's 2012 YEA Award winners from left to right, Hannah Scarborough, Michael Chew, prise. “I was thrilled to win,” arts, they will do well if they keep Esther Kim, Nicolaus Massie, Andrea Deng, Nisha Kale, and Julia Feng. (Photo - Louis Rivara) said Deng. “I learned of this them as an avocation. competition when searching for Continued participation in the his views on the value of the arts. middle school category, the mu- invented a system of detuning a scholarships to help me get ready arts continues to develop concen- After hearing middle school sical winners were two girls who stringed instrument so it can play for college. It was great to find one tration, synthesis of many pieces music winner Hannah Scarbor- tied for first place for the Gordon in different keys.) right here in Pleasanton.” into one, and imagination. "Imagi- ough play a Bach piece on the and Renee Smith Music Award. “I’m very happy and honored Commenting on the literary nation is a wonderful thing, but so cello, Lewis said, "(Your perfor- They were pianist Nisha Kale and to be able to share my classical winners was judge Jim Ott, who many of us lose it, because we don't mance) changed the atmosphere violinist Esther Kim. music,” said Kim. “This is the teaches English at Las Positas Col- use it. Keep it alive," said Wright. in this room. That's what music Lewis said, "It was an honor to first competition in my home town lege. He praised Nicolas's humor An artist engages in "whole does. You changed the energy in hear Kale play with such fluidity and the Firehouse is such a great and suspense, adding, "he even self-learning -- mind, body and the room." and with great technical style." venue.” uses commas correctly. As an Eng- spirit. Isn't that wonderful for us, "You can change the world Lewis said that Kim's perfor- Kale, also a basketball player, lish teacher, that's important. Keep to see and hear what you do," said through art and music. The way mance of a Bach piece was ap- said this competition was very writing, buddy," said Ott. Wright. that changes are accomplished propriate for someone in school, different from others she has at- Ott said that his response to An- Musician and teacher Don complete us, not separate us," said because of the crossover between tended. “Most competitions are drea's story was "Wow! and What? Lewis judged the music competi- Lewis. mathematics and music, which a bunch of judges listening to you tors. Like Wright, he talked about Besides Scarborough in the Bach as a scientist knew. (Bach and then you get a letter in the (continued on page 3)

Afternoon of Wine and Music Plus Up Close View of Amgen Race Retzlaff Winery and the Pacific Visit pacificchambersymphony. Chamber Symphony are joining to org to become a part of this unique create a unique wine country event experience. Entry is $80 per per- on May 15. It is an opportunity son, $150 for two ($85 & $160 to view the Amgen Tour of Cali- after May 5). Call 1-800-630-7836 fornia cyclists as they head into for information. Livermore. Everyone is invited. The event includes lunch, Ret- zlaff wine, music, and that is just the beginning. While the Amgen Tour of California cyclists are toiling up and down Mt. Diablo, guests will be enjoying Thai chick- en and Chipotle beef skewers and crab canapés and smoked salmon and shrimp and fruit and decadent desserts. When the Amgen competitors Tapestry, the Bay Area's only combined vocal and handbell ensemble, is returning to Asbury United turn the corner onto South Liver- Methodist Church to present, "Music of the Night: Gems of the Stage," on Saturday, May 5 at 7:00 p.m. more Avenue focused for the last The concert is free and open to the public. A free-will donation will be collected in support of Open sprint down South Livermore Av- Heart Kitchen and Garden of Grace. The program takes a musical journey with best loved music from enue to the Livermore downtown Mozart to "Mamma Mia!" and from the opera, to the Victorian music halls of Gilbert and Sullivan, and finish line, guests at Retzlaff will to the glitter and glamour of the London stage and Broadway. For more information, please contact have an up front view of these elite Susana Taylor at (925) 768-8025 or visit Tapestry online at www.TapestryRingersandSingers.org. athletes as they streak toward the Cyclists race through Livermore. end of the race. THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012 3 Dublin Farmers' Market Opens for Season on May 3 After a successful first sea- breweries. The concert series this Market will also feature entertain- son, the Dublin Farmers' Market year includes: ment from local musical, theatri- will be open again for business May 3: Jukebox Heroes - a cal, and dance groups. endless variety, on Thursday, May 3, at Emerald cover band of popular songs • "Family Night" (fourth week Glen Park. The Market will run June 7: Tempest - Celtic rock of month): Designed to give fami- exciting entertainment each Thursday, from 4:00 to 8:00 July 5: James Robinson - an lies an opportunity to spend more p.m., through September 27. This acoustic guitarist of world music time together, this night will fea- season, the Market will be held August 2: Contino - Cajun, ture games and activities for the near the corner of Tassajara Road zydeco, and blues kids, including face painting, lonzo King and Central Parkway, close to the September 6: Diablo Road Checkers the Clown, crafts, and a - bold, energetic Country and host of fun and interesting shows ALINES Ballet playground area at Emerald Glen Apr 28 at 8pm Park. popular music and exhibits. The Valley Children's The City will partner once again • "Dublin Cooks" (second week Mobile Museum will also be open Contemporary Dance Filled with with the Pacific Coast Farmers' of month): This night will feature each week, offering fun activities Global Artistry and Vision Market Association (PCFMA) to cooking demonstrations, taste in addition to their "Traveling Mis- operate the Market. In addition to tests, and, on May 10, a lively sions" exhibit. offering fresh, California-grown "Mayors' Cook-Off," featuring For more information about the helby Lynne produce, the Dublin Farmers’ mayors from all over Alameda Dublin Farmers’ Market, please Market will also feature weekly County, including Dublin’s own visit the City of Dublin website at SMay 1 at 7:30pm special events, such as a concert Mayor Sbranti. Residents and ser- www.dublin.ca.gov, under Special Original music from GRAMMY Award series, wine tastings, cook-offs, vice organizations will also be able Events. Residents and businesses Winning Country Singer/Songwriter local entertainment, and children’s to participate in a monthly cook- can sign up to receive updated games and activities. off, where they can show off their information about the Farmers’ Weekly themes this year in- talents in the cooking of a variety Market activities and events. Busi- alifornia Symphony clude: of foods, such as ribs and chili. nesses interested in sponsoring the • "First Thursdays" (First Week • "Community Night" (third and Market can contact Shari Jackman CMay 4 at 8pm of the Month): The "First Thurs- fifth week of month): This night at 556-4555. Lara St. John performs Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto day" events will, once again, will again provide local groups For more information about and Donato Cabrera Conducts Beethoven’s Ninth include a monthly concert in the with an opportunity to showcase the Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market park, in addition to wine and beer their talents, and offer up informa- Association, please visit www. tastings from local vintners and tion about their organization. The pcfma.com. lmost Elton John A& The Rocket Band YOUNG ARTISTS May 5 at 8pm (continued from page 2) An Electrifying Tribute to a Rock and Roll Legend and Why? I gave her feedback on when he said, "Don't ever change encouraging the audience to join the experiment she wrote. She your photography. Make it one of a the PCAC. With a higher level combined a sense of poetry with kind. Allow people to tell you how donation, a member can receive a ome Together: what we expect to hear in a story. to improve it." print of a scene on Monet's estate CThe Beatles Concert Experience It buttons up neatly, but also pushes Julie Feng won the Phyllis painted by Pleasanton artist Char- May 6 at 2pm the envelope a little." Wentworth Award, named for a lotte Severin. Live Musical Performance Recreating the PHOTOGRAPHER long-time Pleasanton artist. Julie “PCAC is especially passionate Look, Sound and History of the Beatles GIVES SOME ADVICE explained her five paintings. Per- about passing the torch for the arts In the visual arts, the Pleasanton haps the most moving was one on to the next generation, so that Art League's Visual Arts winner showing the fear and loneliness of the arts in Pleasanton continue to he Capitol Steps was Michael Chew for his pho- a young girl new to visiting a city. thrive and be a part of the com- tography. Michael was on a church Its dark colors were somber, but a munity,” explained Vellinger. “One TMay 8 at 7:30pm mission to Latin America, and yellow car in the background add- way we do this is through the YEA They Put the “Mock” back in Democracy photographed the daily life-style ed brightness and hope, she said. Awards.” of people who lived there. Jill Vellinger, PCAC president, For more information about the Michael offered some advice provided what she called "the YEA award program or PCAC, uest Maestro: to photographers and other artists KQED portion" of the program by visit www.pleasantonarts.org G Lara Webber May 12 at 8pm Livermore-Amador Symphony Rae Dorough Speakers Series ob Borchers BMay 16 at 7:30pm From Fairchild to Facebook— The History and Future of Venture Capital BUY TICKETS 925.373.6800 www.bankheadtheater.org 2400 FIRST STREET | Downtown Livermore 4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012 Review: Wild and Witty New Mikado in Danville

By Susan Steinberg That imposing lady was magnif- Another fascinating stage char- It’s not easy to improve on a icently portrayed by contralto Sara acter is Pish-Tush, played by classic, but Role Players have done Couden, a sought –after singing Robin Taylor, who is also the just that with their new and wildly actress with Berkeley, Livermore show’s Musical Director. Gifted entertaining G and S favorite, Valley, Oakland, Martinez, and with many talents, he mugs his “The Mikado." Townsend Operas, as well as the way around the stage, moving with Directed by Eric Fraisher Lamplighters, San Francisco’s the practiced grace of a polished Hayes, this production bounces internationally honored G&S com- performer, singing the keynote along with deft dialogue, clever pany. It was a great pleasure to en- song that explains (as much as staging, creative comic touches, joy a voice truly meant for the role, possible) the plot’s backstory, and and the zest of a cast fully invested as most mezzos cannot encompass lending his voice to many intricate in the irresistibly silly story. Audi- its full range and weight. Best of ensembles. He’s the man audiences ences have been swept into gales all was her character interpreta- must thank for his enormous effort of laughter by the deadpan jokes tion, from the pathos of her “old as Diction Coach. Somehow he and wisecracks, and appreciative maid’s lament” to her coy girlish achieved the nearly-impossible accolades for the excellent singing. response to Ko-Ko’s amorous dream of training every actor to How impressive for a commu- advances, showing an appealing deliver even complicated lines nity theater company to marshall vulnerability. with complete clarity. Bravo! the level of talent displayed by the A surprise for veteran RPE Kudos also to Choreographer 11-member cast, with wonderful attendees was Charles Woodson Tom Segal, and creative Design- voices and first-class acting abil- Parker, last seen in a straight acting ers Bo Golden and Ryan Terry for ity. Most listeners sat up to take role (“Rosencrantz and Guilden- some of the most ingenious set notice when David Zelenka began stern”), but here demonstrating a pieces I’ve seen. Jon Gourdine the show with hero NankiPoo’s great comic flair and robust sing- handled the mood-appropriate famous ballad, “A Wand’ring ing voice as Pooh-Bah (Lord High lighting effects, with popular Minstrel I”. His rich tenor has been Everything). designer Lisa Danz creating an showcased in many productions, How he can keep a straight effective array of costumes and from Opera San Jose to Livermore face while smugly boasting of his props. An audience accolade for Valley Opera and Berkeley Opera. “pre-Adamite ancestors” is beyond the 12-piece musical ensemble Robert Sholty, a familiar Tri- imagining, but he steals the show signaled appreciation for a fine Valley actor, singer, (a memorable with many of his preposterous job, especially since they were hid- “Oklahoma” Judd), and director pronouncements such as claiming den out of sight behind a bamboo (“My Way”) was an endearing he can trace his lineage back to “to curtain. Ko-Ko, the condemned tailor a protoplasmal primordial atomic Above all, hats off to director suddenly elevated to Lord High globule," and admitting, “I can’t Hayes, for innovative touches Executioner. His amazing range of help it – I was born sneering.” that elevated this production to an facial expressions, from mugging Another comment that convulsed excellence rare in “community the- to melancholy, expressed corners listeners, was his famous “I’m not ater” G&S stagings. This reviewer, of his character not even seen in used to saying “How-de-do” to Pictured are, at top, Sara Couden (Katisha); (middle, left to right) a confirmed fanatic, and dedicated most other productions. Especially anyone below the rank of stock- Asia Jackson (Peep Bo), Sarah Sloan (Yum Yum), Jennifer Kay (Pitti Lamplighter Loyalist, was ap- skillful was his desperate wooing broker!” Sing); and (bottom) Megan Miller (Ensemble). plauding enthusiastically along of Katisha, the homely old har- Another scene-stealer is be- with heartily-cheering first-timers. ridan, with a soulful rendition of loved stage veteran Paul Sinasohn, Don’t miss the final two week- “Titwillow”. a waggish Mikado of Japan de- ends of this gem, Fridays and Sat- scribing how he deals with evil- and his turn as LVO’s Mikado, he gether, and also enjoy many comic urdays April 27 and 28, and May doers by inventing ingeniously performs with a booming baritone dialogue exchanges. Nanki-Poo, 4 and 5, and Sunday April 29 at 2 torturous punishments, and cack- and a marvelously mobile face that masquerading as a second trom- PM at Danville’s Village Theater, Free Registration ling at the “humorousness” of their makes up for his belated entry in bone, asks Yum-Yum, “What if I 233 Front Street, just off Diablo fate. Remembered for his perfor- the plot. told you I was no musician?” His Boulevard. with this Ad mances with the Lamplighters Call or sign-up online! Exp. 05/31/12 The little Japanese girls are love pertly responds, “I was certain equally adorable, well-choreo- of it directly I heard you play!” Tickets are a bargain at $18 to Lessons in Piano, graphed, and delightfully lively, Sloan, also an experienced $26 and can be reserved at Dan- Voice, Guitar & Ukulele especially the “Three Little Maids Lamplighter, does full justice to ville’s Community offices, 925- All Ages & Levels Welcome! from School”, Asia Jackson as the lovely soprano ballad, “The 314-3400 (9 to 5 weekdays) or visit Individual • Group Lessons Peep-Bo, Jennifer Kay as Pitti- Moon and I”, as well as her wick- www.villagetheatreshows.com. (925) 960-1194 TRAVEL Sing, and Sarah Sloan as the edly funny monologue beginning, G&S lovers can enjoy a pot- GalinasMusicStudio.com aptly-named Yum-Yum. Ward and “I sometimes wonder, in my art- pourri of their favorite songs in BUG reluctant fiancée of Ko-Ko, she less Japanese way, why I am so a cabaret-style show at Father is madly in love with Nanki-Poo much more beautiful than anyone Nature’s Restaurant April 26 and Located in (of course – he’s the tenor!), dis- else in the world. Can this be van- May 3rd with tickets at $10. Also Downtown Livermore guised son of the Mikado, fleeing a ity?” Looking girlishly radiant on tap is a free showing of the forced match with the redoubtable as a bride, terrified by Katisha, movie “Topsy-Turvy," the life of 2222 Second St, Suite #2 2269 Third Street Katisha, a “maiden lady” from his and triumphant as the Mikado’s G&S, 1:30 PM Friday April 27 at Downtown Livermore (925) 447-4300 father’s Court. As a couple the two daughter-in-law “elected," she is the Village Theatre. www.travelbuglivermore.com leads make beautiful music to- a pleasure to watch onstage. THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012 5

Many times we think that we did the painting on the ouside. They lived on Lomitas Avenue, will write a biography or an auto- He worked for the school district where John planted a vineyard. biography about a member of our from 1977 to 1989; he retired on Like her husband, Madeline family or about our own life, but April 17, the anniversary of the attended St. Michael’s School we never do it. Perhaps, though, 1906 earthquake. and graduated from Livermore we jot down some thoughts, Along the way, Don married High. She studied accounting several pages. We historians who Madeline Genoni at St. Mike’s in at the Merritt Business School happen upon such short writings 1958, and they had two children, and worked as an accountant for treasure them. Often they capture Jim and Ann. Don’s grandfa- several local firms. perfectly a moment or two of ther, John Scullion, immigrated Returning to the tales of time. One of them is the several- to San Francisco from Killarny, younger years in another little page autobiography of Anna Ireland, in 1867. He settled in book called Echoes from the Young. I included her wonderful Donald and Madeline Scullion the Altamont hills just to the east Whistle, we hear from Claire comment about living in Corral of Brushy Peak, where he raised Scullion about her adventures Hollow among the sheepherders special. He graduated from St. the Merchant Marines, he worked horses, grain, and hay. Father with her big brother, Don. “As two weeks ago. This week I am Michael’s and Livermore High, for them for four years. When he Laurence Scanlon married John we matured to five and eight, we delighted to have at my fingertips leaving behind many sketches, returned home, he rented space in to Mary J. “Minnie” Flynn in San decided that anyone could have two short works by members of in books, possibly desks, and what is now the southern build- Francisco on 17 October 1869 a lemonade stand, what about a the Scullion family—Edna (Ted- anything else available. This ing of Blacksmith Square and at St. Patrick’s Church. Unfor- newspaper? So—Don had a flair dy) Scullion, Claire Scullion, and did, at times, cause unhappiness set up his own business, Scully’s tunately, John died in his early for the arts way back then before Eileen Scullion Michelis. The between Don and some of his Signs. He stayed in business fifties in 1906, leaving Minnie to he went to college and made it following quote is from Upon teachers. Graffiti was not yet the for 35 years creating signs for rear their twelve children. Their his career. He did a weekly comic These Rocks. in thing.” Don volunteered for realtors, the rodeo, the county ranch included a number of rock strip. Bud Twohey, Bud Nevin, “Even at age three Don was the Marines on 8 December 1941 fair, and the school district. He caves, and even though Don and I were the reporters; the Hen- forever working on a little proj- but was stationed close enough did campaign signs for local Scullion was born and raised in ry kids, Arthur and Nancy, the ect. Therefore a pencil, hammer, to Livermore to attend his high politicians using the silk screen Livermore, he often visited the proofreaders and printers. … We and little pocket knife were his school graduation in June 1942. process, which he had learned at old home place. charged a nickel a copy for our most precious possessions. Paper, He served throughout the rest of a plant in Berkeley. He painted Madeline’s parents, John and treasure. We reported marriages, at times, was a missing item, but the war in the South Pacific, sail- the original Phillips gas station Mary Genoni, came to Livermore engagements, babies sometimes he used ‘butcher paper.’ In years ing from Guam to Hawaii, New fiberglass figures so that they re- from San Francisco with their before the people involved knew ago this was the outside wrap- Guinea, the Philippines, Hong semble cowboys; only one is left three children in 1924. John suf- of this. Our paper was booming!” ping of all meat products. No su- Kong, Shanghai, and Japan. He to advertise the rodeo. At Liver- fered from asthma, and his doctor permarkets with packaged plastic shared his voyages with his fam- more High he painted the portrait had recommended that he move (Readers can reach me at meat then. One went to a butcher ily and friends through his talent of a man on a bucking horse for to a place with a drier climate. [email protected].) shop; meat was cut, weighed, for sketching. He sent a cartoon the boys’ gym floor, and he also and wrapped per order. The outer to the Herald, showing himself wrapper was clean, large, and so deep in reading his newly ar- great for drawing and sketching. rived copy of the Herald that he Don was forever sketching. At ignored the half-naked women age six he could do any cartoon walking by. as good as the original.” When Don returned home, he Sometimes, Don’s sisters attended the California College went on to say, his sketching was of Arts and Crafts in Oakland on inconvenient, especially when it the GI Bill. After he had com- interfered with arriving at school pleted his third year, however, on time. They continued, “But he heard from Uncle Sam, who not once did they think to remove wanted to send him to Korea. In- the pencil from his little hand. stead, since he had his seaman’s Even then they knew he was papers from an earlier hitch with Healthy Kids Day Set The YMCAs of the East Bay home. At the end of the summer, will celebrate Healthy Kids Day® the Y plans to look at the progress on April 28 with free community of participants to track improve- events for kids and families at their ment, as well as energy expended. Oakland, Hayward, Richmond The Y will also provide a ‘Keep and Dublin (Tri-Valley) locations. It Movin’ website, from which (Events begin at 9:00 am) More participants can access encourag- than 1,900 Ys across the country ing messages from the Healthy are taking part in the celebration, Home Guidebook; links to other meant to kick start physical activ- recommended sites; a chalkboard/ ity and learning throughout the blogspot for participants to an- summer – a critical out-of-school nounce progress and achievements time for kids. and much more. As a part of the many planned Healthy Kids Day, a national Healthy Kids Day events, the initiative of the Y to improve the YMCA of the East Bay will be health and well-being of kids, is spearheading a ‘Move-A-Thon,’ filled with fun, active play and which will encourage children and educational activities that will help families to participate in circuit ex- parents improve their kids’ life- ercise stations to record the num- styles for the long term. Research ber of repetitions of the exercises shows that without access to ac- they complete within one minute. tivities that stimulate the mind and Progress will be recorded on each body, kids are more prone to gain participant’s ‘activity passport’ and weight and fall behind academi- tracked by YMCA officials. cally over the summer months. Also included in the activity For more information, please passport will be a ‘Keep It Movin’ visit: http://www.ymca.net/ pledge for the participant to com- healthy-kids-day/ AND http:// mit to ongoing healthy habits at www.ymcaeastbay.org/ 6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012

LARPD Senior Services honors Older Americans Month in May The Livermore Area Rec- reation and Park District has plenty of options to keep se- niors active during the month of May – Older Americans Month. This year’s theme is “Never Too Old to Play,” supporting participation in social, creative and physical activities that help retain mobility, muscle mass and cognitive abilities. LARPD Senior Services provides re- Photo - Doug Jorgensen sources, exercise, enrichment, Le Tableau Magnifique, ballet company for Livermore School of Dance, luncheons and trips to older performed its 2011 - 2012 season repertoire at The Bankhead Theater last Americans year-round. weekend. The Company presented three different programs starting with a This month, seniors can: full-length production of the ballet classic, Swan Lake. The second piece • Celebrate Cinco de Mayo was a contemporary ballet that follows three unsuspecting travelers who with “La Fiesta.” Dancing en- are caught in a thunder storm and are faced with the decision to remain tertainment will be provided by outdoors in the elements or enter a dilapidated, eerie mansion. The final Grupo Folkorico Tlapalli. The program featured excerpts from Aladdin. luncheon will feature chicken enchiladas with green sauce, re- fried beans, Mexicali salad and a churro with vanilla ice cream. La Fiesta is open to ages 55 and older for $8. It will be held at noon (doors at 11:30 a.m.) on Friday, May 4. Purchase tickets by 4 p.m. Thursday, April 26. • Learn gardening tech- niques with “Spring Planting with Alden Lane Nursery.” Jacquie Williams-Courtright of Alden Lane Nursery is back by popular demand for an annual presentation. Using plants from the nursery, she will discuss how to care for them and also take questions about garden- Local Author to Share Her Travels Across the Silk Road ing. This event is free and will Local author and scholar, Hildi be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. National Coalition of Independent Kang, will share two versions Scholars, the Institute for Histori- Thursday, May 3. of travel across the Silk Road of • Sit back and enjoy the cal Study, and SCBWI (Society of Hildi Kang China—the reality of her own trip Children's Book Writers and Il- crossing the show with Movie Madness, and the imaginative tale of her held at 1 p.m. the first Monday lustrators). desert. historical fiction book, Chengli Hildi Kang’s book will be sold and third Thursday of each and the Silk Road Caravan. The month. “Horrible Bosses” will at the event. The program is free program will be Sun., May 6 at and open to all. No registration re- play Monday, May 7, and “The 2 p.m. at the Pleasanton Library. Fighter” will play on Thursday, quired. For more information, call The presentation will include Penny Johnson, 925/931-3405. May 17. pictures from her trip that became • Get acquainted with all the backdrop for Chengli’s story, Senior Services has to offer readings from Chengli as he trav- with Newcomers’ Day on May eled the same route in the 600s, all 3. If you’re new to Livermore, enhanced by bits of history of the newly retired or have never ancient trade routes. been to the Robert Livermore Hildi Kang is a graduate of Community Center, this is UC Berkeley, with a life-time a great opportunity to meet interest in Korean history. Her staff members and learn about publications include articles in the programs and services avail- Transactions of the Royal Asiatic able. Reserve a spot 24 hours Society, Korean Culture magazine, in advance. and contributor to the "Proceed- For more information or to ings of the Fourth Pacific and Asia reserve your spot at La Fiesta Conference of Korea." She is the or Newcomers’ Day, call 925- author of "Under the Black Um- 373-5700 or visit the Robert brella: Voices from Korea 1910- Livermore Community Center, 1945. Ms. Kang is a member of 4444 East Ave. the Association for Asian Studies, THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012 7 Former Lab Employee Pens 'Tehran Triangle' Thriller Sleep: A Matter of Life and Death Thomas C. “Tom” Reed, former Secretary of the Air Force with By Carol Graham or feel heavy, your abilities will be popular “Sleep and Dreams” the Gerald R. Ford and James E. Although Dr. William C. De- impaired. The only cause of sleepi- course from 1971 till 2003. In “Jimmy” Carter administrations ment has spent 245,300 hours fully ness or drowsiness is sleep debt.” 2006, due to popular demand, De- and former scholar at Lawrence engaged in the subject he has stud- A current study of Stanford ment decided to teach the course Livermore where he designed two ied for 60 years, it’s not his primary athletes monitored their perfor- again - to classes with as many as thermonuclear devices, has pub- source of knowledge. mances when the amount of sleep 2,000 students. lished his first thriller novel – The Spending those hours has, how- they were getting increased. “The “I have a tradition in my class- Tehran Triangle – with Santa Rosa ever, allowed him to conduct his basketball players converted more es,” said Dement. “If someone resident Sandy Baker. extensive research with optimal free throws, and the swimmers falls asleep, everyone around him In The Tehran Triangle, Reed, mental alertness, heightened com- swam faster,” said Dement. points at him. It’s hard to see one who now resides in Healdsburg, prehension, better organization and “It’s important for newly-aware person sleeping, but it’s easy to see CA, fused a lifetime of experience endless good humor. individuals to be proactive in pro- a ring of pointing fingers.” in nuclear weaponry, spy craft, and His area of expertise is sleep. moting healthy sleep. How do you Ian, who attended a previous reconnaissance to a story wedded On April 19th, residents, students know how much sleep you need?” Dement lecture, said, “I don’t re- to fact. With Sandy Baker, they and faculty attended Dement’s Es- Dement asked. “Pick a number and member anyone dozing off, but it’s kept the book timely and tied to sentials of Sleep presentation at Las try it for two weeks; if you feel a shame he didn’t bring his squirt current events. Positas College - the learning insti- “The Tehran Triangle is a fast- great all day, you’ve hit it.” gun. It gives you a taste of what tution he considers second only to Las Positas College student could happen in his actual class at paced thriller about the frightening the Pentagon in 1973 in managing perils of the nuclear age. Tom Reed Stanford University in sleep and Amy Rel, stated, “I know I don’t Stanford.” certain intelligence projects at the dream research. For his pioneering get enough sleep. I have a hard Following his presentation, brings to the story a lifetime of Pentagon in connection with the experience in national security, de- work in a previously uncharted time turning my thoughts off at Dement answered questions from Yom Kippur War in the Middle field, Dement is regarded as the night and falling asleep. The entire the audience. “Is yawning conta- livering a narrative that is crackling East. A decade of involvement in with imagination yet woven from “Father of Sleep Science.” lecture was so interesting; I learned gious?” asked one attendee. national security matters followed. “Some people think sleep is a that being sleep deprived is much “Yes, but not 100% - not for the grim threats of our time,” said Even after Reed left Washington David Hoffman, former Foreign waste of time,” said Dement, age more unhealthy than I thought.” those who are fully alert without in 1983, he continued to advise 84. “However, anyone who feels Focusing on the “Big Three” sleep debt,” said Dement, who Affairs Editor for the Washington the Joint Strategic Planning Staff Post and author of the Pulitzer that way is going to create much areas that account for sleep depri- inhaled in an exaggerated gaping on policy and intelligence matters. more waste.” vation - insomnia, sleep apnea and yawn, then peered expectantly at Prize-winning The Dead Hand. Ballantine Books published The novel has also received high Sleep debt (the accumulation restless foot syndrome - Dement the audience. “Aha, about half of his first book, At the Abyss: An of sleep deprivation over time) not said that impact of not enough you yawned. praise from retired intelligence Insider’s History of the Cold War, officials. only results in increased errors and sleep can reduce life expectancy by “A girl in one of my classes which includes an Introduction irritability, but also, more seriously, ten years through impaired cogni- was yawning and I asked if she While taking a trip through New by former President George H.W. Mexico three years ago, Reed no- increased accidents and cardiovas- tion, increased cardiovascular dis- was tired,” he said. “She said, yes. Bush. cular disease. ease, or falling asleep at the wheel. ‘Well, go to sleep,’ I told her. She ticed the Santa Fe railroad ran past Reed was the principal author- the first nuclear test site, Trinity. Of the three key elements nec- Ian Jones, who attended the did! It was beautiful.” ity appearing in the National Geo- essary to health - exercise, nutrition “How logical, I thought, for the graphic Channel’s Secret History lecture, said, “The talk inspired Much of Dement’s focus re- Iranians to simply build another of the Atom Bomb, first aired on and sleep - the importance of sleep me to use my CPAP again." Jones volves around educating people Hiroshima-type A-bomb in El April 15, 2010. is the most often misunderstood or was talking about his continuous about the dangers of both driving Paso, ship it to Trinity by rail, then Baker is the author of Mrs. ignored. positive airway pressure (CPAP) while drowsy and untreated sleep fire it by cell phone when it got to Feeny and the Grubby Garden “It’s not an overestimate to say mask designed to treat sleep apnea. apnea. “When a sleep-deprived in- ground zero. They would only need Gang and her newest release, that 99 people in 100 have sleep It is a disorder characterized by ab- dividual falls asleep while driving to smuggle in a hundred pounds Zack’s Zany Zucchiniland. A Mas- debt,” said Dement, a best-selling normal pauses in breathing during and is rendered dead or disabled of highly enriched uranium. Well- ter Gardener since 2000, Baker author. He is Stanford University sleep that can result in low oxygen for life, it is rare that anyone fully paid transnational corporations writes for the Master Gardener professor, founder of the first sleep and high carbon monoxide in the realizes that such tragic events and Mexico’s drug gangs could website and lectures on basic land- clinic, and the world’s leading blood, and congestive heart failure. are preventable on a very basic do that.” scape design, lawn alternatives, authority on the diagnosis and There is much to be lost or level,” he said. “When a 50-year- Baker, an author and former de- drought tolerant gardening, and treatment of sleep disorders. gained due to sleep habits. Not old executive dies of coronary velopment director, began collabo- planting native species. She was “Dr. Dement is a true legend, a only is one-third of the day occu- thrombosis, no one realizes that rating with Reed on the novel two co-chair of the California statewide giant in the history of science,” said pied by sleep, but how productive an undiagnosed sleep disorder may years ago. “We write from different Master Gardener conference in Las Positas College Psychology and enjoyable the other two-thirds have been the culprit. sides of the brain and complement 2011 at the same time her first chil- teacher Ernie Jones, Ph.D. “He, are is dependent on that one-third. “The educational activities that each other. He’s the left side–nu- dren. For more information about more than any other person, has “When people sleep more, they are could begin to reduce and eventu- clear engineer and scientist, linear, Sandy Baker, visit website www. been responsible for the develop- more cheerful, energetic and easier ally eliminate such tragedies have systematic, analytical, thinking. sandybakerwriter.com and her blog ment of our understanding of sleep, to get along with,” said Dement. not yet permeated our society.” I’m the right side–poet and writer, www.writersandy.wordpress.com. dreams and the effects of sleep Joining Stanford University in For more sleep information, creative, perceptive, imaginative, To learn more about Tom Reed and deprivation.” feeling. He wants to go forward; 1963, Dement, Professor of Psy- visit: www.end-your-sleep-de- his books, visit his website http:// What Dement emphasized in his chiatry and Behavioral Sciences privation.com. To hear about up- I’m all for going backward.” De- tomreedauthor.com/. spite their differences, they never talk was that, “Drowsiness is Red at Stanford University School of coming presentations visit : www. experienced a disagreement. Alert! If your eyelids want to close Medicine, taught the enormously laspositascollege.edu. Reed earned his graduate degree from the University of Southern California and then moved on to 2133A Las Positas Ct, Livermore Lawrence Livermore where he de- signed two thermonuclear devices (located off of N. Livermore Ave.) fired over the Pacific in the Domi- nic test series of 1962. On leaving Furniture, Jewelry Livermore, Reed started and ran a successful high-tech company & Household Items making superconductors. Reed’s experience in interna- Monday thru Friday 9am-4pm tional intelligence issues is exten- Nifty Gifts & More 925.454.3349 sive, and he draws heavily from A Thrift Store ~ Now Open! www.futures-explored.org that background in his books. In addition to serving as Secretary Present this coupon and receive FREE GIFT with purchase. of the Air Force, Reed assisted 8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012

ART/PHOTO EXHIBITS 2012. Juror is award-winning Berkeley plimentary slice of pizza, light snacks Chris Bradley's Jazz Band, plays at the sound and history of the Beatles. www. Livermore Art Association Gallery, lo- painter, photographer and video artist and ‘Smores by our fire pit - (weather Sunol Jazz Cafe (In the Center of Sunol) bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. cated in the Carnegie Building, offers art Kim Anno. permitting). Additional wine and pizza the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month Orchestra/Wind Ensemble Concert, Las classes, unusual gifts, painting rentals, art Art in the Vineyard, May 27, Wente will be available for sale. All donations 7:30-9:30 p.m. The band features real Jazz Positas College, Wed., May 9, Barbara F. exhibits and information pertaining to Vineyards Estate Winery, 5565 Tesla Rd., this month will benefit the Tri-Valley from the 1920's, 30's. Mertes Center for the Arts Main Stage the art field, 2155 Third St., Livermore. The Livermore. Art displays and demon- Haven. 400 Vineyard Avenue Pleasanton, Mariachi Sol de Mexico, April 27, 8 p.m. Theater, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. gallery has been open since 1974 and is strations, entertainment, wine tasting www.rubyhillwinery.net LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 Advance purchase tickets will be avail- run as a co-op by local artists. Hours are (fee). Presented by the Livermore Art Evening with the winemaker, at the First St., Livermore. www.bankheadthe- able online at www.brownpapertickets. Wed.-Sun. 11:30-4 p.m. For information Association. Winemaker's Pour House, Picazo Vine- ater.org or 373-6800. com with the venue of Las Positas Col- call 449-9927. yards, and McGrail Vineyards award win- The Ohlone Tuba Ensemble performs lege, or call 1-800-838-3006. Tickets will Carol Maddox paintings at Wente Vine- MEETINGS/CLASSES ning winemaker, Mark Clarin, for a food First Presbyterian Church in Livermore also be available at the door. For further yards Estate Winery from April 1 to 30, Tri-Valley Treasures Plein Air, competi- and wine pairing. Wines are Picazo Vine- on Sunday, April 29 at 4 p.m. Included information call the Performing Arts 2012. The artist's reception will be Satur- tion May 5 to 7, Tri-Valley Conservancy yards Merlot, Tuxedo Fume Blanc and in the program are pieces by J.S. Bach, Events Line at 925.424.1100 or call Cindy day April 7, 1:00 to 3:00, 5565 Tesla Road, invites artists to capture the essence McGrail Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon. the Beach Boys, John Lennon and Henry Rosefield at 925.424.1119 Livermore. The tasting room is open daily of the South Livermore Valley Area. Wed., May 2, 6 to 8 p.m. Winemaker's Pour Mancini. There is even a version of Adele's Livermore Amador Symphony, concert 11am to 4:30 pm. No admission charge. Paintings will be judged by Bryan Mark House, 2241 First Street, Livermore. For "Rollin' in the Deep." There is no admis- Sat., May 12, 8 p.m. Lara Webber, guest LAA art show, "The Essential Nude," figura- Taylor an accomplished landscape more information call (925) 215-2656 or sion charge. However, donations will be conductor. Music by Beethoven, De Fella tive art by local artists, at the Bothwell painter. Bryan is currently working out visit www.winemakerspourhouse.com accepted. The First Presbyterian Church and Franck. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Arts Center, 8th and H Streets, Livermore. of his Bay Area studio and teaching in McGrail Vineyards and Winery events: is located at Fourth and L Streets in St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. Show hours are April 19-22, 11:00 am - the Graduate School at the Academy of Lobster Feed, , June 9. July 7th: Sage Livermore. For more information, contact org or 373-6800. 4:00 pm. Free. Art University in San Francisco. Studio Concert at McGrail; July 14th: Annual Janet Holmes at 829-0244 or jholmes@ Livermore-Pleasanton Youth Outreach Melanie Lacki, Charlotte Severin, recent Seven Arts Gallery in Pleasanton will Cabernet Reserve Celebration and Re- ohlone.edu. Symphony, performs 7-8 P.M. Sat., May work April 2 to 30 at the Bankhead The- display the artwork on May 12 and 13. lease of the 2009 McGrail Vineyards Music Department Recital, Las Positas 12 at the Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, ater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Opening For complete rules and a release form Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve. (925) College, Wed., May 2, 12:30 p.m. Barbara 1385 S. Livermore Ave. Livermore. Admis- reception is Tues., April 24, 5:30 to 8 p.m. go to www.trivalleyconservancy.org. The 215-0717 www.mcgrailvineyards.com, F. Mertes Center for the Arts Main Stage sion is free. www.lpyos.org. No admission charge. registration deadline is May 1. 5600 Greenville Road, Livermore. Theater, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. Jazz Night Concert, vocal/instrumental, Livermore in Words and Art Show Everything Poetry (in two parts), Second The Winemaker's Pour House, Be Happy Advance purchase tickets will be avail- Las Positas College, Sat., May 12, 8 p.m. and Reception, An exhibit of poetry, Saturday Soup-workshops 2nd Saturday At "Happy Hour" with Livermore Valley able online at www.brownpapertickets. Barbara F. Mertes Center for the Arts paintings and photographs about the of every month, 10 a.m.-12 noon Fire- Wine. Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri. 4 to 6 p.m. com with the venue of Las Positas Col- Main Stage Theater, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., community of Livermore is on display house Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Avenue, Buy a glass of Livermore Valley Wine or lege, or call 1-800-838-3006. Tickets will Livermore. Advance purchase tickets will throughout the month of April, which Pleasanton; Third Tuesday Trope- poetry Flight and order a Flatbread for half price. also be available at the door. For further be available online at www.brownpaper- is National Poetry Month. April 1-30 at critiques 3rd Tuesday of every month, Take the wine puzzle challenge. Ask the information call the Performing Arts tickets.com with the venue of Las Positas 1780 First Street in the Vine Cinema Plaza. 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Towne Center Books, wait staff for the wine puzzle. For more Events Line at 925.424.1100 or call Cindy College, or call 1-800-838-3006. Tickets The display is also available for viewing 555 Main Street, Pleasanton. Contact information call (925) 215-2656 or visit Rosefield at 925.424.1119 will also be available at the door. For weekdays during regular business hours, Cynthia Bryant at PleasantonPoetry@ www.winemakerspourhouse.com. California Symphony, Lara St. John and further information call the Performing and by appointment with Wollard at ci.pleasanton.ca.us. Charles R Vineyards is participating Beethoven’s Ninth! 8 pm, Friday, May Arts Events Line at 925.424.1100 or call 925-824-4824 or [email protected]. Figure Drawing Workshop, every Friday May 5th & 6th in the Annual Livermore 4 Bankhead Theater, Livermore. World Cindy Rosefield at 925.424.1119 Garre' Vineyard Cafe, Bettie Goosman's 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Artists bring their Downtown Wine Festival. May 12 & 13, Premier D. J. Sparr (Young Composer in Robert Gruca, solo guitar, May 19, 8 p.m. paintings in oil and watercolor land- own materials and easels. Open to all noon to 4:30 p.m. Mother's Day Wine, Residence) Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto; Del Valle Fine Arts Concert, Bankhead scapes are being displayed at Garre' artists. Professional artist models (nude). Roses & Dessert at the winery. Bring Lara St. John, violin Beethoven Sym- Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. www. Vineyards Cafe 7986 Tesla Rd., Livermore, No instructor. Students under 18 need Mom to celebrate her special day with a phony No. 9; Donato Cabrera, conductor; bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. from March 1 through April 30. The written parental permission to attend. red rose (be early - limited supply). May California Festival Chorus and Soloists. Chanticleer Love Story, May 20, 2 p.m. restaurant is open for lunch Monday Cost $20 per session. Bothwell Arts 19th - Wine Club Pick Up Party noon Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Street, LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 through Friday from 11:00 am to 2:30 Center, 2466 8th St., Livermore. Coffee, to 4:30 p.m. music (Steve Kritzer & his Livermore. www.mylvpac.org. First St., Livermore. www.bankheadthe- pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 tea and refreshments are available. Call guitar), food & wine. 8195 Crane Ridge Almost Elton John, spring gala, May 5, 8 ater.org or 373-6800. am to 3:30 pm. For more information call or email Barbara Stanton for more info Road, Livermore, (925)454-3040; www. p.m. LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, Pablo Cruise Better Than Ever!, 8 p.m. May (925) 447-8415. about the workshop, 925-373-9638 - charlesrvineyards.com 2400 First St., Livermore. www.bank- 25, Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Off the ChARTs! High School art ex- [email protected]. Livermore Wine Country Festival, May headtheater.org or 373-6800. Ave., Pleasanton. www.firehousearts.org. hibit at the Harrington Gallery. Include Kids Camp, Tri Valley Repertory Theatre is 5 and 6, downtown Livermore, 10 a.m. Beatles Concert Experience, Sun., May 6, San Ramon Symphonic Band, May artwork by some extremely talented now accepting enrollment for its 2012 to 6 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sun. 2 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., 25, 7:30 p.m. "An American Portrait," art students and alumni from Amador Summer Kids Camp. Show will be Dis- Entertainment, craft booths, wine and Livermore. West Coast Performing Arts Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Cen- Valley, Foothill, and Village High Schools ney's Aladdin Jr. at new TVRT Rehearsal beer tasting, and more. www.livermore- Presents Come Together: The Beatles ter, 10550 Albion Rd., San Ramon. www. in Pleasanton. The exhibit takes place Studio, 1020 Serpentine Lane, Ste 101, downtown.com Concert Experience recreates the look, sanramon.ca.gov April 20 through May 5. Firehouse Arts Pleasanton. Registration at (925) 462- Garré Winery. Sunday, May 1 3 Mother’s Center Harrington Gallery, 4444 Railroad 2121 or visit the website: http://www. Day Champagne Brunch 10am to Ave., Pleasanton. trivalleyrep.org/childrensShow.php. 1:30 Buffet style brunch with custom The Wild Vine Wine Bar & Lounge hosts Session 1: Grades 4-9 July 11th through omelettes, fresh fruit & pastries, carv- local artist Nicole Wakeman in her solo July 15th 9:00am-4:00pm with perfor- ing stations and more. 7986 Tesla Rd. show of abstract and mixed media acryl- mances on Saturday, July 16; Session 2: Reservations Required (925)371-8200 ics, " Textural Explorations," April 5 - May Grades 2-8 July 18th through July 27th Mother's Day Picnic, Retzlaff Estate Wines, 3, 2012. 2187 First Street in Livermore 9:00am-3:00pm with performances on May 13, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reservations and is open to the public. Saturday, July 28; Session 3: Grades 2-8 Appreciated. Bring a picnic lunch and the Artists' Flea Market, sponsored by the July 30th through August 10th 9:00am- children. Spend the day in the shade of Pleasanton Art League. Saturday, April 3:00pm with performances Saturday, our pepper trees and relax. A hat contest 28, 2012; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Delucchi Park, August 11. Each session culminates in with prizes for the most colorful, the First Street at Neal, Pleasanton. New and two performances. most outrageous and the oldest hat. Live used art supplies and equipment, frames, Beginning Stained Glass, start and fin- music: ‘TBA”. $10.00 per/adult. 925-447- mat board, canvas, pottery seconds, ish a small stained glass window (14” x 8941 www.retzlaffwinery.com 1356.So. discounted original artwork, art books 14”) using cutting and manufacturing Livermore Ave., Livermore. and tapes, photography, craft supplies, skills. Learn how to use basic glass tools. Thomas Coyne Winery Spring Open new and used brushes, watercolor and Limited to 8 students. Additional studio House, May 26, 27 and 28. Noon to 5 oil paints, colored pencils and lots more. hours are available at a daily, weekly or p.m. Release of six wines 2010 Quest, Kathleen Hill, Livermore artist, will be monthly rate. Tools and supplies are California $14; 2008 Mouvedre, Contra among exhibitors in the San Dimas $174. Does not include glass. 5 week class, Costa $20; 2004 Merlot Detjen's Farm, Festival of Arts 36th Western Fine Arts 2.5 hours each. Wed. 10-7, Thurs.-Sat. 10-9, Livermore $15; 2009 Confluence, Cali- Exhibition and Sale, April 27, 28 and Sun. 10-4. Classes are ongoing. Art Glass fornia $20; 2007 Petite Sirah, Livermore 29 in Civic Center Plaza, 245 E. Bonita Studio, 174 South L St., Livermore. For $20. Selection of fine fruits and cheeses. Ave., San Dimas. Theme is "Spirit of the more information contact Roberta Jones "Bottle Your Own Wine:" selling Vino West." Hill's work combines her love of at: 925-447-1962 www.artglassstudio. Tinto Barato, a red table wine, at the Open painting and of animals. The festival is weebly.com. House on May 26 only. Bring your clean open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. Make It & Take It, 2nd Thursday nights, bottle, we will fill, cork and label it for you Woody at 100: Carl Tilchen (pictured), Dublin singer/songwriter, to 4 p.m. Sunday. $35 admission to fair. with guest artists and demos. May is for $6.00 per bottle. Or you may bottle 909-599-5374. “Fused Jewelry” only $15 Art Glass label and cork it yourself. Use our bottle will perform as Woody Guthrie, and Bob Meyerson, singer/banjo Open Call @ Harrington Gallery, 2nd Studio, 174 South L St., Livermore. For for $7.00. For more info call (925) 373- playe as Pete Seeger at Woody At 100. Both Carl Tilchen, and Bob annual open juried art exhibit. May 30- more information contact Roberta Jones 6541 or visit http://thomascoynewinery. Meyerson will perform in costume. The Festival Launch of Woody At June 30. Reception: Saturday, June 2, at: 925-447-1962 www.artglassstudio. com. 51 E. Vallecitos Road, Livermore. 2012, 1:00-3:00 pm. This exhibit is open weebly.com 100 will take place at Hidden Valley Music Seminars, 88 West Carmel to artists 18 and over who reside or work MUSIC/CONCERTS Valley Road, Carmel Valley, on May 3, 7 to 9 p.m. Tilchen recently in the greater Bay Area. For prospectus, WINERY EVENTS Tri-Valley Medieval and Renaissance information and entry form, go to library. Ruby Friday at Ruby Hill Winery, last Collegium playing session for ama- returned from his Singing Tour of Italy, including The Club Firenze in constantcontact.com/download/get/ Friday of each month from 6:30 to 9 p.m. teur musicians, Peter Maund, director. Rome. Meyerson is an accomplished singer, and banjo player. He file/1102050517351-254/Prospectur+ in the tasting room. Cost is $10 for Gem Mondays 7:30–9:30 p.m. 7600 Dublin and+Entry+Form%2C+Fresh+Works+- Society members, $15 nonmembers; $10 Blvd., suite 370, Dublin. $25. Information recently performed at Snappy’s Café. He has studied, and enjoyed ++Spring+2012+Exhibit+at+FAC+-++. under 21 years of age. Price includes a [email protected] or 925-424- the music of Pete Seeger for many years. hiddenvalleymusic.org/ pdf. Deadline for submittal is April 10, glass of wine, 2 barrel tastings, 1 com- 1209 or 925-984-4395

THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012 9

Swingin' Blue Stars, May 27, 2 p.m. Fire- O'Neill," in association with PlayGround, Choir Concert, Las Positas College, Sun., house Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., prompted by O'Neillian theme, "Pipe May 6, 3 p.m. Barbara F. Mertes Center Pleasanton. www.firehousearts.org. Dream." Sun., May 20, 3 p.m. "Diff'rent" for the Arts Main Stage Theater, 3000 Pleasanton Community Concert Band, by Eugene O'Neill." The Old Barn, Eugene Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. Advance May 28, 10:30 - 12:30 Memorial Day O'Neill National Historic Site, Tickets purchase tickets will be available online performance, Pleasanton Senior Center, $25 single performance, $45 both per- at www.brownpapertickets.com with 5353 Sunol Blvd., Pleasanton. 447-7270. formances. Reservations 820-1818 or the venue of Las Positas College, or call Pure Prairie League, country rock band, www.eugeneoneill.org. Shuttle service 1-800-838-3006. Tickets will also be avail- May 28, 8 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 to Tao House from the Museum of the able at the door. For further information First St., Livermore. www.bankheadthe- San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave., call the Performing Arts Events Line at ater.org or 373-6800. Danville, provided by the National Park 925.424.1100 or call Cindy Rosefield at Josh Gracin, May 31, 8 p.m. Firehouse Arts Service beginning at 2 p.m. 925.424.1119 Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. The True Story of the Three Little Pigs www.firehousearts.org. presented by Bay Area Children's Theater, OPERA Blues in the Vineyard Festival, Bay Area May 12-20, Fridays 7 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 2 Livermore Valley Opera, A Passionate Blues Society and Winterhawk Winery, and 4:30 p.m. Front Row Theater, 17011 Afternoon, Sun., May 20, 2 p.m. Firehouse 4537 Abernathy Road, Fairfield. Sunday, Bollinger Canyon Rd., San Ramon. www. Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasan- June 3, noon to 5 p.m. Fundraising for sanramon.ca.gov ton. Music by Mozart, Puccini, Verdi and programs such as “Blues in the Schools." Dave Koz, May 18, 8 p.m. Dougherty Valley Donizetti, performed by tenor Eleazar Top names, such as, Blues Harp Hall Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rodriguez, soprano Rebecca Davis and of Fame Inductee, Darrell Mansfield; Rd., San Ramon. www.sanramon.ca.gov bass-baritone Phillip Skinner (Tosca's Terrible Tom, who took the late, great Scarpia). Artists' reception immedi- Otis Redding’s place on tour; and Alvon COMEDY ately following performance. Tickets Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, 1385 So. Livermore Ave., Livermore, Johnson, Blues Guitar Player of the Year, The Capitol Steps, May 8, 7:30 p.m. LVPAC $20. www.firehousearts.org. 2002. The Festival will also feature, the Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First will present a hymn festival on Saturday, April 28, at 2:00 pm, Oakland Blues Divas. BBQ dinners avail- St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. MISCELLANEOUS featuring music led by the 37-member university orchestra of able, catered by Texas Road House for org or 373-6800. Political Issues Book Club meets the woodwind, brass and percussion instruments under the direction $25. The $25 ticket includes admission 4th Tuesday of each month, and reads to the Festival. Regular admission is $20 DANCE books about issues and trends that of Jeff Held. This will be an hour of music, with choir and audience and no meal. highsierratickets.com or Alonzo King LINES Ballet, April 28, 8 p.m. are driving current affairs in both the participation. There is no charge for the event. For more information brownbagtickets.com LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 national and international arenas. Topics First St., Livermore. www.bankheadthe- that have been covered include politics, call 447-1246, x. 231. ON THE STAGE ater.org or 373-6800. governance, economics, military affairs, Shout, pop anthems and ballads per- Zydeco at the Bothwell! Dance and history, sociology, science, the climate, College, Fri., May 4, 8 p.m. Barbara F. 1:30 p.m. Information, call the Alain formed weekends through May 5 at the Zydeco Dance Lessons, $15, live zydeco and religion. Contact Rich at 872-7923, Mertes Center for the Arts Main Stage Pinel office and ask for Leslie, Joyce or Studio Theatre, Pleasanton. Tri-Valley music, gumbo, beer & wine available for for further questions Theater, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. Marti, 251-1111. Repertory Theatre production. www. purchase. May 19, Mark St. Mary and the We’re Talkin’ Books! Club is a member- Advance purchase tickets will be avail- Antique & Craft Show and Concert, Sat., trivalleyrep.com. Delta Blues & Zydeco band; Ted Sherrod centered book group led by a small able online at www.brownpapertickets. May 12, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop, dine and The Mikado, A Wonderfully Silly Vic- Dance Instructor both nights. Doors group of book club veterans, with com with the venue of Las Positas Col- enjoy live music on the lovely grounds torian Musical Farce, Friday, Saturday open at 5:30, Dance Lesson 6:00, live reading selections based on member lege, or call 1-800-838-3006. Tickets will of the Dublin Heritage Park & Museums. 8pm; Sunday 2pm; April 13- May 5, 2012. music starts at 6:30. $15, more info at recommendations and consensus. also be available at the door. For further Purchase an elegant box lunch and pic- Role Players Ensemble presents The www.bothwellartscenter.org. Bothwell No homework required– share your information call the Performing Arts nic on the shady lawns or in the picnic Mikado by Gilbert & Sullivan. Sex and Arts Center, 2466 8th Street, Livermore. insights or just listen in! Contact Susan Events Line at 925.424.1100 or call Cindy grove. Over 60 vendors will be available politics come together in this best-loved Friday Evening Group Dance! Learn how at 337-1282 regarding the We’re Talkin’ Rosefield at 925.424.1119 with antiques, collectibles, vintage and comedy of Gilbert & Sullivan, set in the to dance with great instructors from It's Books! Club. Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Sat., May 5, fun- hard-to-find items and local arts & crafts mythical village of Titipu where flirting is All About Dancing, new dance every Museum on Main, preschool pre-literacy draising event for Assistance League of and flowers. While you stroll the grounds a capital offense. The Village Theatre, 233 week from Salsa, Tango, Swing and more. program, M.o.M.’s Reading Time. For Amador Valley non-profit at the Aahmes and picnic, Le Hot Jazz Trio will perform Front Street, Danville. Tickets $18 - $26 – Group lesson starts at 7:30, followed by ages 2 to 5 and families, free reading Shrine Event Center, 170 Lindbergh French Gypsy jazz of the 1930s. Free call (925) 314-3400 or buy tickets online open dance until 9:45 in our new location program, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Reading Avenue, Livermore beginning at noon. admission. www.ci.dublin.ca.us at www.villagetheatreshows.com, or at at the Bothwell Arts Center, 2466 8th St., at 10 a.m. with theme crafts following. Tea tables decorated by the members, May Fair for Mother's Day, May 12, 11 the Community Center, 420 Front St. Livermore; 925-449-9292. $15. Donations appreciated. No reservations yummy food, a hat contest, raffle prizes a.m. to 5 p.m. at Murray Schoolhouse, The Odd Couple, San Ramon Community Dance Performance, Las Positas College, required. Large groups or playgroups and champagne bar. Chico's fashion day of French music, food, dancing Theater production, Front Row Theater, Sat., May 19, 8 p.m. Barbara F. Mertes please phone in advance: 925.462.2766 show. Tickets are $50 and all money the "May Pole," and browsing booths inside Dougherty Station, 17011 Bol- Center for the Arts Main Stage Theater, or email: education@museumonmain. generated by this event goes to fund with antiques and handmade goods at linger Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Perfor- 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. Ad- org. 2012 M.o.M.’s Reading Time Dates our local programs. For information Dublin's picturesque "Heritage Park and mances weekends April 20-May 6; 8 p.m. vance purchase tickets will be available and Themes: May 9, Please and Thank call Annette at 925-462-5275 or go to Museums. “Le Hot Jazz Trio” will perform. curtain on Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. online at www.brownpapertickets.com You; June 13, Flag Day; July 11, We All our website and click on "upcoming Crepes, galettes, elegant box lunches and on Saturdays and Sundays. www.san- with the venue of Las Positas College, or Scream for Ice Cream; August 8, It’s A events" to view the flier and pictures desserts are also on the menu. Vintage ramonperformingarts.com, 973-3343. call 1-800-838-3006. Tickets will also be Circus; September 12, Fiesta; October of past events. www.amadorvalley.as- tractor/wagon rides and spring craft Beauty and the Beast, presented by available at the door. For further informa- 10, Creepy Critters; November 14, Thank sistanceleague.org making. The 1856 Murray Schoolhouse California Theatre Center, Bankhead tion call the Performing Arts Events Line You, Veterans; and, December 12, Light Girl Scout Fair, Alameda County Fair Museum, 1859 St. Raymond Church Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore on at 925.424.1100 or call Cindy Rosefield Up the Seasons. The Museum on Main Grounds, Sat., May 5, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and the 1911 Kolb Craftsman Bunga- Wed., April 25. Recommended for grade at 925.424.1119. is located at 603 Main Street in historic 100th anniversary celebration. rock low and the historic cemetery will be K-5. 9:30 a.m., 122 seats available; 11 downtown Pleasanton. climbing, obstacle courses, arts and open for viewing from 1:00-4:00. www. a.m. class size openings. www.ctcinc. MOVIES Two Day Town 2012, April 27, 28, 29, crafts, interactive history, bridging for ci.dublin.ca.us org/1112tour/1112Tour_Order_Form. Classic films at the Pleasanton Library, Lake Del Valle, Livermore, over 20 local all ages, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Award Amgen Tour of California finish stage, html or call 800-606-0424. Las Positas College and the Pleasanton performing artists will appear includ- Ceremonies, a gigantic Girl Scout store Livermore, May 15, downtown. Race Best of the Best, Las Positas College, April Public Library present the series. Theme ing national music festival performer, with specialized 100th Anniversary hosts world's top cyclists. Variety of 28, Barbara F. Mertes Center for the Arts this year is ‘Three Great Directors." Ad- Michael McNevin. Doc Hale's Native merchandise, camping, swaps, exciting events will be planned around the event. Main Stage Theater, 3000 Campus Hill mission is free. The series is hosted by America program exploring plant, ani- performances including Melinda Caroll, www.cityoflivermore.net Dr., Livermore. Advance purchase tickets Candace Klaschus, Professor of Media mal and archaeological life; family activi- fireworks, and more. Tickets are on sale Bob Borchers, Jr.,, Wed., May 16, 7:30 will be available online at www.brown- Studies at Las Positas College. Klaschus ties table, Lakeside Cafe. $60 in advance, now for $35! www.girlscoutsnorcal.org p.m. LLNL Presents The Rae Dorough papertickets.com with the venue of Las offers a brief talk about each film prior $70 at the door. Kids 12 and under are Livermore Valley Wine Auction, May 5, Speakers Series: From Fairchild to Face- Positas College, or call 1-800-838-3006. to the screening. The three great film free, volunteers are also admitted free. This is the premier fund-raising event book. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Tickets will also be available at the door. directors featured in this year’s series are Tickets or information at twodaytown. of the Livermore Valley Winegrowers Livermore. www.bankheadtheater.org For further information call the Perform- Howard Hawkes, John Ford and Alfred com or 510-287-9095. Foundation hosted by Wente Family or 373-6800. ing Arts Events Line at 925.424.1100 or Hitchcock. Refreshments are served. A 16th annual Ravenswood Victorian Estates at the Wente Vineyards Estate Spring antiques and collectibles street call Cindy Rosefield at 925.424.1119. complete list of the ‘Three Great Direc- Tea, presented by the Livermore Area Winery. Black tie optional, wine, dinner, fair. May 27, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Main Street, Arsenic & Old Lace by Joseph Kesselring, tors” films is available at the Pleasanton Recreation and Park District and the auction, live music. For more informa- downtown Pleasanton. Hosted by the directed by Matthew Goff. The Fetterly Public Library. Movies will be shown the Ravenswood Progress League at the tion, visit www.lvwine.org. Pleasanton Downtown Association, Playhouse, 3467 Sonoma Blvd., Suite 10, first Thursday of each month through Ravenswood Historic Site in south Ed Kinney Lecture Series, 7 p.m. An www.pleasantondowntown.net. Vallejo. General admission: $15 / $12 se- June 7, 2012. No registration required. Livermore. Sweets and savories, selection Evening with Uncle Toisan, Tues., May San Ramon Art & Wind Festival, Sunday nior. Call (707) 649-1053 reservations or The library is located at 400 Old Bernal of teas, sparkling wine and sparkling 8. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad and Monday, May 27 and 28 in San Ra- visit www.bayareastage.org. Dates and Ave., Pleasanton. For more information, juice; open to adults and children ages Avenue, Pleasanton. $10 General Admis- mon’s Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd. times: April 20, 21, 27, 28, May 4 and 5 at call Penny Johnson, 931-3405. 8 and up. 2 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, April sion, $5 Members & Seniors, $3 Students/ from 10am to 5pm both days. This family 8 p.m.; April 22, 29 and May 6 at 6 p.m. 29, at Ravenswood, 2647 Arroyo Road, Teachers with ID. All tickets are paid at friendly festival features professional kite Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing, presented CHORAL Livermore. Two seating locations are the door. All tickets are open seating. flying demonstrations, over 200 arts & by Civic Arts Stage Company, May 4, 5, Valley Concert Chorale, May 5, featuring available: inside the home or outside Information www.museumonmain.org crafts booths, entertainment on 3 stages, 11, 12 at 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Arts Center, love songs, German drinking songs, on the covered porch. Tickets are $37 or (925) 462-2766. two large kids’ activity areas, food booths 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. Pleasan- madrigals, etc. Among them will be per person. Reservations are being 72nd Annual Pleasanton Rose Show, and more. Early morning hot air balloon ton. www.firehousearts.org. Charles Hoag's Cicada Songs for chorus, taken now until the event is full. For Sat., May 12, Pleasanton Senior Center, launch on May 28th at 6am. For more Playwright's Theatre, Eugene O'Neill clarinet & marimba; selections from more information, call 925-443-0238. 5353 Sunol Blvd., Pleasanton. Exhibitor information, call the City of San Ramon Foundation, Tao House. Staged readings. Recent Rulings Weather Report, and Reservations forms are available online registration, 7:30 to 10 a.m.; judging Parks and Community Services Depart- Sun., May 6, 3 p.m. "Exorcism" by Eugene Samuel Barber's Heavenly Banquet. at www.larpd.dst.ca.us. 10 a.m. to 12:30 -p.m., show open for ment at (925) 973-3200 or check out the O'Neill and "Three Scenes Inspired by www.valleyconcertchorale.org Speech Performance Night, Las Positas viewing 1 to 4 p.m., awards ceremony website at www.ArtandWind.com 10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012

Livermore Author Nominated for Top International Science Fiction Award Livermore author Nancy Fulda least not in ways most people can has been nominated for her second understand -- Hannah struggles to major award in as many months. face the question of who she really This mother of three, who just last is, and who she wishes to become. month received a Nebula Nomina- Born and raised in Livermore, tion, has now been nominated for California, Fulda attended Liver- the World Science Fiction Soci- more High School and assisted ety’s Hugo Award. If she wins, she with research on the UC Davis will become the first author ever to campus at LLNL. Her writing has win both the Hugo and Jim Baen previously won the Phobos Award, Livermore Native is the Memorial Awards. the Vera Hinckley Mayhew Award, The Hugo Awards, presented and the Jim Baen Memorial Award. EBRPD's Newest Fire Captain annually since 1953, are the sci- Find more information on her at ence-fiction field's top internation- her website: http://www.nancy- years as a Resource Analyst in the al award. Fulda’s nominated work, fulda.com District's Stewardship department. “Movement," will be competing in The Hugo Awards winners will Theile has been an industrial the “Best Short Story” category. be announced at the World Sci- (on-call) firefighter with the Park Fulda, a cancer survivor as well ence Fiction Convention, taking District since 1994 and was pro- as the mother of a child with au- place in Chicago between August moted to lieutenant in 2007. In tism, is the only woman to date to 30th and September 3rd, 2012. 2011, Theile was recognized for win the prestigious Jim Baen Me- Guests of Honor include award outstanding EMT services by the The Livermore Police Department morial Award, an award given for winning author Mike Resnik and Alameda County EMS Agency. announced the loss of a beloved fiction featuring near-future space astronaut Story Musgrave. The Theile holds a BA in Environ- member of its team last week. exploration. “Movement” grew official full list of nominees may mental Sciences from CSU East K9 “Andy” went on to a better out of her attempts to understand be found here: http://www.thehu- Bay. Prior to joining the Park place where he is no longer in a mental landscape utterly differ- goawards.org/hugo-history/2012- District, any discomfort from his kidney ent than her own. “Movement” hugo-awards/ Theile was a ranger/naturalist is also nominated for a Nebula affliction. “Andy” served as a Award and is her most acclaimed with the Livermore Area Recre- K9 for the department under his work thus far. ation and Park District, a naturalist handler, Officer Cindy Moore for “Movement: A Short Story with the Hayward Area Recreation 8 years on patrol. “Andy” retired about Autism in the Future” was District, and served two seasons as several years ago and lived the originally published in Asimov's Aileen Theile an emergency on-call firefighter last few years of his life at home Science Fiction Magazine. It with the US Forest Service. with Officer Moore. “Andy” was received exceptionally positive Livermore resident Aileen The East Bay Regional Park nearly 13 years old when he reviews, including an almost- Theile was promoted this month District operates 65 parks com- passed. The notice of hsi death impossible-to-obtain "Highly to the rank of captain in the East prising nearly 112,000 acres in states, "He will be missed. We Recommended" from Lois Tilton Bay Regional Park District's Fire Alameda and Contra Costa Coun- want to thank “Andy” for his of Locus Online. “Movement” tells Department. Theile served as park ties. The District's Public Safety many years of dedicated service the tale of Hannah, an incredibly ranger at the District for a decade Division includes both fire and to the men and women of the gifted teenager who is almost beginning in 1994, then for eight police departments. Livermore Police Department and completely nonverbal. When her the Livermore community." concerned parents investigate a treatment that could change her life forever, Hannah's world is thrown into turmoil. Unable to speak -- at Nancy Fulda Xtreme Force Dance Company Scores High Marks at Competition The Xtreme Force Dance Company (pictured at right) competed at the Primetime Dance Championship on April 14 in Hayward. Located in Livermore, the Xtreme Competition Team dancers range in age from four to teens. The dancers competed in tap, jazz and hip hop divisions as well as an advanced level. The dancers were awarded top scores in the advanced level of age 11 for a jazz routine performed by dancers Briana Moncada, Sarah Morgan, Charly Barby, Kristen Wong and Ashley Geary, all of Livermore. The performance earned first place overall and an invitation to dance in a Primetime Battle. Also winning a top award and competing in the battle was a teen tap team of Miranda Donaldson, Alexis Pournaras, Kristen Wong, Sarah Morgan, and Briana Moncada. The teams brought home the final cup for 2nd place in both divisions. The team also featured title winners: Alexa Firestone in the petite age and Charly Barby in the junior age. In all, the Xtreme team routines received 22 overall top awards. Winning top honors for choreography for the advanced level was instructor Ashley Firestone. The team is preparing to compete in Las Vegas in July 2012. Extreme Dance Team members. THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012 11

(Organizations wishing to run notices is Saturday, April 28, 9:00am-3:00pm at information. find/approve community service options. (925) 447-4357 - www.calvarylivermore.org. in Bulletin Board, send information to PO Livermore High Schools Cowboy Alley. The Italian Catholic Federation, Branch The Tri-Valley Youth Court meets on the St. Matthew's Baptist Church, 1239 Box 1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care of wholesale nurseyman will help select appro- #285, is holding its annual "Primavera Din- 2nd Monday night of the month at the North Livermore Ave., Livermore. Services on Bulletin Board or email information to ed- priate plants to match the yard conditions. ner Dance," a fund-raiser to benefit Tri-Valley Pleasanton Council Chamber, 200 Old Bernal Sunday at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Adult Sunday [email protected]. Include name of Contact Robert with questions about the sale Scholarship Program and other ICF Charities. Ave. For more information, please contact school 9:30 a.m., Children's Sunday school organization, meeting date, time, place and at 925-443-6416. The event will be held Saturday May 5, 2012. Tonya Clenney at 337-7175/tonyaclenney@ at 9:30 a.m. Prayer each Wednesday at 7 p.m. theme or subject. Phone number and contact Valley Spoksemen Bicycle Touring No host cocktails 6:00 PM, Dinner by Thyme communityyouthcourts.com or visit www. followed by Bible study at 7:30 p.m. 449-3824. person should also be included. Deadline is Club, Sat., April 28, 23 miles, Fuddruckers to Eat at 7:00 PM at the St. Michael's Parish communityyouthcourts.com. United Christian Church, celebrating 50 5 p.m. Friday.) Ride along Iron Horse and other trails, meet Hall, 372 Maple St., Livermore. There will be Youth Volunteers Needed, The Tri-Valley years in the Tri-Valley. 1886 College Ave. at M Armchair Travelers, Livermore Civic 10 a.m. in Willows Shopping Center, Concord, dancing to the music of Smooth Sounds, a Youth Court is looking for youth volunteers St., Livermore; worships on Sunday morning Center Library on Thurs., May 10, 2012 from Randy Huey, 518-8439. Sun., April 29, 43 miles raffle and prizes. Tickets $35.00 per person. ages 13-17 to act as Jurors, Court Clerks at 10:30 a.m. Children’s program on Sunday 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Learn about inn-to-inn tour through Danville, Livermore, Pleasanton Reservations are required, deadline is April and Advocates. The Youth Court occurs on morning and first Fridays. The community is hiking from Tom Courtney, author of the and San Ramon, meet 9 a.m. at Danville park 28, 2012. To make reservations, please call the 2nd Monday night of the month at the welcome. United CC is an Open and Affirming Wilderness Press guide Walkabout Northern and Ride, Julie Hampton, 510-685-7103. Wed., Don M. @ (925) 846-8436 or Judy & Carl B. Pleasanton Council Chamber at 200 Old ministry. Call 449-6820 for more information. California: Walking Inn to Inn. Tom will share May 2, 38 miles from Vacaville to Winters, @ (925)846-6514. For all questions call Gail Bernal Ave. For more information, please Bible Study, offered Wednesdays, 7:30 photographs of his hiking adventures and meet 10 a.m. at Lagoon Regional Park, Edith Rocca @ (925) 373-4821. contact Tonya Clenney at 925-337-7175/ to 8:30 PM at the Church of Jesus Christ of offer tips on planning your very own inn- Norby, 707-771-0483. Anyone planning to go Mediator Certification, Center for [email protected] Latter-day Saints, 6100 Paseo Santa Cruz, to-inn adventures in Northern California. on a rides is asked to contact the leader for Dispute Settlement offering a mediator or visit www.communityyouthcourts.com. Pleasanton. Refreshments served at no cost. Adults are invited to this free program on details on where to meet and what to bring. certification workshop Saturdays, April 28, Toastmasters - Livermore Lunch 925-305-9468. the second Thursday of each month in the Singles wine tasting party, Saturday, May 5 and 12 in Livermore. 25-hour training Bunch meets Mondays at noon, conference Granada Baptist Church, 945 Concan- Community Meeting Rooms of the Civic May 12, 2012, 7:30-9:30pm, at the Marriott is facilitated by practicing lead mediators room, 2157 First St., Livermore. Learn to de- non Boulevard, Livermore. Services: Sunday Center Library, 1188 S. Livermore Avenue, Hotel, 11950 Dublin Canyon Rd, Pleasanton. and will certify individuals to the CA dispute velop communication and leadership skills school – 9:45 a.m.; worship service – 11 a.m. Livermore. For additional information please $30 at the door includes all the wines you resolution programs act. Space is limited to 5 in a supportive environment that fosters All are welcome. 1-888-805-7151. call 925 373-5500. taste, from boutique wineries; accompanied more participants. Information and registra- self-confidence and personal growth. www. Seventh-day Adventist Church, 243 Project Nim, will be shown at 7 p.m. by appetizers to cleanse the palate. This tion form available online at www.trivalley- livermoretoastmasters.org. Scott Street, Livermore. 925-447-5462, ser- on Sat., May 5 at the IBEW Hall, 6250 Village event is co-sponsored by The Society of mediation.com or contact Diane at 373-1035. Livermore Peripheral Neuropathy vices on Saturday: Sabbath school 9:30 a.m., Parkway, Dublin. Special guest, Bob Ingersoll, Single Professionals, the world’s largest Attention Teen Writers, California Writ- Support Group meets every fourth Tues- worship 11 a.m. www.livermoresda.org/ All President of Mindy’s Memory Primate Sanc- non-profit singles organization; and by Wine ers Club Tri-Valley Branch is holding its first day of the month at 10 a.m. in the second are welcome. tuary and Nim’s best friend in the film, will Socials. Anyone wishing more information high school writing contest. The contest floor conference room at Heritage Estates The deaf community is invited to wor- be present. Nim is the story of a chimpanzee about this and many more singles parties open to all public schools in the Tri-Valley Retirement Community. The address is 900 ship at First Presbyterian Church in Liver- who was taken as a baby and raised as a hu- may call 415/507-9962 or visit www.ThePa- area (Danville, Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton, E. Stanley Blvd., Livermore All are welcome. more, where ASL translation will be provided man child, using sign language as a linguistic rtyHotline.com. and San Ramon grades 9, 10, & 11). Deadline Contacts are: Sandra Grafrath 443-6655 or every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. The church is experiment in the 70’s. When he grew older, Vendors sought, Livermore Lions Clubs is May 1, 2012. Details, submission require- Lee Parlett 292-9280. located on the corner of 4th and L streets. he was shuffled around. This event is open to Christmas Boutique is November 3, 2012 ments, and submissions can be found at Eighth Annual Bringing Back the Faith Chapel Assembly of God, 6656 the public, free (although, a $3.00 donation and vendors are needed. Quality handmade www.trivalleywriters.org/contests. Natives Garden Tour: Registration for the Alisal St., Pleasanton, Sunday School for all is appreciated), and the hall is wheelchair (or hand embellished) items are accepted. Pleasanton Newcomers Club, open Eighth Annual Bringing Back the Natives ages 9:15 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m., Children’s accessible. A meet & greet potluck begins at The boutique is a major fundraiser for the to new and established residents of the Garden Tour, which will take place on Sun- Church 11:15 a.m. Women's Bible study 6:30 PM, while a Q & A discussion with Bob Lions Club. Rental fees are used to support Tri-Valley. Activities include a coffee the day, May 6, 2012 from 10 to 5, is now open. Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Intercessory prayer Ingersoll follows the film. For more informa- eye and hearing programs here in our com- first Wednesday of the month, a luncheon This free, award-winning tour features 45 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. Please call office at tion, call 925-462-3459. munity. For applications please call Joan at on the second Wednesday of the month, Alameda and Contra Costa county gardens 846-8650 for weekly programs. Ohlone Audubon will meet on May 1 925-980-2628. Single or double tables are Bunco, Mah Jongg, walking/hiking groups, that are pesticide-free, conserve water, Trinity, 557 Olivina Ave., Livermore. at 7:30 pm at the Starr King U. U. Church, available ($55 &$80). Price reduced for non- family activities, and monthly adult socials. provide habitat for wildlife, and contain Sunday worship at 8:30 and 11 a.m. and 6 22577 Bayview Avenue, Hayward. Jenny profit organizations. Information, call 925-215-8405 or visit www. 60% or more native plants. Registration is p.m. Sunday school or Bible study for all ages Papka, from the Native Bird Connections, Field Day, Rangeland Weed Manage- PleasantonNewcomers.com required at www.bringingbackthenatives. at 9:45 a.m. Awana is Sunday at 3:30 p.m. will present a program on Raptors and will ment for Improved Forage Production. Andrew’s Awesome Advocates pre- net/ A companion event, the Native Plant Wednesday nights there is adult Bible study have life raptors at the meeting. No admis- Identification and control of Medusahead, paring for the annual fundraiser yard sale Sale Extravaganza, will take place throughout at 6:45 and NRG and Re.Gen for youth, and sion charge. Refreshments served. More Yellow starthistle and Goatgrass will be dis- on April 27-28. Donations are sought. The the weekend of April 30 and May 1. children's choir for kids. Child care during all information call 925-447-8843 or go to www. cussed in the field. Online tools to assist with goal is to raise funds for the wheelchair lift Writing Club for Young Adults, ages events. 447-1848, www.trinitylivermore.org. ohloneaudubon.org. weed management will be demonstrated. van payments, wheelchair friendly carpet 12- 21, are invited to join The Writing Club Tri-Valley Unity Church, 2260 Camino Tri-Valley Republican Women Feder- Fri., May 4, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Alameda County & padding, among other durable medical at the Livermore Public Library, Civic Center. Ramon, San Ramon. Class for children, ages ated, meeting May 10, 6:30 p.m. Cattlemen's Farm Bureau, 638 Enos Way, Livermore. Sand- expenses. Please contact Shawna Sargis at Thursday, April 26, 2012, from 6:30 to 8:00 4-8, plus new preteen and teen program, Restaurant, 2882 Kitty Hawk Rd., Livermore. wiches provided, $10 registration. Field site 454-8827 or Beth Hewitt at 606-6251 to ar- p.m., for a fun-filled evening of writing with during church service, 10-11:15 a.m. Sundays. Meet Joel Fox, Co-publisher and Editor-in- is in Livermore. Carpool to the site from the range a drop-off appointment for donations. author J.L. Powers. This free event will take Ongoing adult classes and small groups. All Chief of the website Fox and Hounds Daily. Farm Bureau. RSVP to [email protected] Andrew was born with thirteen birth defects place in the Storytime Room of the Civic are welcome. Rev. Harriet Hawkins, minister. Fox worked for Howard Jarvis Taxpayers As- by 4/27/12. Questions? Please call Sheila of which several required immediate surgi- Center Library, 1188 South Livermore Avenue, www.trivalleyunity.com (925) 829-2733. sociation for nineteen years, serving as the Barry at (408) 282-3106. Workshop led by cal intervention and ongoing medical care. Livermore. Learn about publishing your St. Charles Borromeo, 1315 Lomitas president from 1986 to 1998. He currently the University of California Cooperative TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), works and how to expand writing horizons. Ave., Livermore. Meditation groups following serves as president of the Small Business Extension, and sponsored by Cooperative meets at Hillcrest Community Gardens Build- Write and edit each other’s work. For more the John Main tradition, every Monday 5:30 Action Committee. For reservations and Extension, the Alameda County Conservation ing, 550 Hillcrest Ave., Livermore. Mondays, information, please visit TEEN SPACE on the p.m. and 7 p.m. For details, contact Claire La information contact coupclan1962@pacbell. Partnership, and the Alameda-Contra Costa 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. private weigh-in, 6:45 to library’s website: www.livermorelibrary.net, Scola at 447-9800. net or phone Phyllis Couper, 925-462-4931, Weed Management Area. 7:30 p.m. meeting. All are welcome. Nonprofit, or contact Sandy at 925-373-5500, exten- Centerpointe Church, 3410 Cornerstone by May 7. Race for Opportunity. The Bridge of self-help organization founded in 1950. TOPS sion 5583. Court, Pleasanton. Services: 9 a.m. blended- Pleasantonians 4 Peace, candlelight Opportunity Charity is presenting its annual members are guided by a nutritionist and a Operation: S.A.M. "Supporting All Mili- style with choir and band, family worship. Vigil in front of the Museum on Main, 603 FUNdraiser to provide Community College medical doctor at the national headquarters. tary" is a 501(c)3 non profit military support 10:30 a.m. contemporary led by band, Sunday Main Street, downtown Pleasanton, Wed., scholarships to at-risk Foster Kids and single Members are encouraged to use the diabetic organization based in Livermore. S.A.M. has School for children and middle-schoolers. May 9, at 7 p.m. Participants will reflect on the mothers who want to improve their lives exchange program and are free to use what- been in operation since January 2004. It www.centerpointechurch.org; 925-846-4436. human and monetary costs of the war, honor through education. Teams of 2 adults set off ever food they plan. Information, contact Sue is dedicated to the continued support of St. Innocent Orthodox Church, 1040 veterans who have sacrificed, and visualize on an "Amazing Race" type challenge. The at 462-6281. deployed troops. Preparation of comfort Florence Rd., Livermore. Sunday service at ways of moving beyond this conflict to a teams will use public transportation as they Widowed Men and Women of North- packages takes place every other week - all 10 a.m. For details please see our website more peaceful world. Peaceful War Protest race to unusual Bay Area locations and use ern CA., Lunch in Danville, April 26, 11:30 year long. Providing morale support for at www.stinnocent.net or call Fr. Leo Arrow- on the fourth Wednesday of the month, May all their skills to perform unique mental and a.m., RSVP by April 23 to Marsha, 830-8483. those deployed. All information provided is smith at 456-0845. 23, between 5 - 6 at the corners of First and physical challenges. The event is on May 5, Lunch in Pleasanton, April 29, 1 p.m. RSVP by confidential and is not shared for security St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Hop- Neal Streets. Questions?? Call Cathe Norman 2012 and will start at 7:30 am. Dinner will be April 26 to Athene, 846-0111. purposes. To submit a name and address, in- yard Road, Pleasanton, Services on Sunday, at (925) 462-7495; Matt Sullivan at mjs7882@ provided and fabulous prizes awarded in Drop-in computer tutoring, Need quire about donations or helping, please visit 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Children’s Sunday gmail.com; or [email protected]. www. Pleasanton. Deadline for entries is 4-28-12 help with downloading E-Books from the www.operationsam.org, email operation- School & Chapel at 10:15 a.m. All are most Pleasantonians4Peace.org Please visit us at www.bridgeofopportunity. library to your E-Reader, sending E-mail [email protected] or call 925 443-7620 for welcome to come and worship with us and to A Workshop on Metaphor & Speak- com/race or email info@bridgeofopportu- attachments, social networking, blogging, more information and the calendar of events. enjoy our hospitality. For more information ing American, by Susan C. Strong of The nity.org for additional information. general internet questions, or ??? Pleasanton RELIGION call the church office 925-462-4802. Metaphor Project and author of Move our DBE Daughters of the British Empire, Library offers programs Thursdays 6 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, 2020 Fifth St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, Message How to get America’s Ear. Sun., May John McLaren’s Roses of Britain Chapter in to 8 p.m. Questions? Ask at the Reference Street, Livermore. 9:00 a.m. Contemplative 678 Enos Way, Livermore. Services on Sunday 6, 1 to 4:15 p.m. IBEW 595 Hall, 6250 Village the Tri-Valley meets at 11:00 a.m. on the 3rd Desk or call 925-931-3400 (press 7 for Ref. Service in the Chapel, 10:30 Traditional at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Children's Sunday Parkway, Dublin. Limited space, please RSVP Thursday of every month at Castlewood Desk). Library programs are free and open to Service in the Sanctuary and children’s pro- school during the 10:30 a.m. service. For to [email protected] by May 4. Country Club. DBE was founded in 1909 and everyone. Call Merry Luskin at 925/931-3400 gram. For more information www.fpcl.us or more information call the church office at Tri-Valley Democratic Club meeting, is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization made for information. 925-447-2078. (925) 447-3289 or SaintBartsLivermore.com. Mon., May 21, IBEW 595 Hall, 6250 Village up of women of British or British Common- Dress a Girl Around the World Sew Unitarian Universalist, 1893 N. Vasco St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church Parkway, Dublin. Doors open 7 p.m., meeting wealth heritage and ancestry with a focus on Fest: Saturday, May 19, 2012, 9am – 3pm, Rd., Livermore. 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. follows the traditional 1928 Book of Common 7:30 -p.m. speaker (to be announced) 8 p.m. charity and fellowship. Those interested in St. Michael Hall, 300 block of Maple Street, Information 447-8747. Prayer. 193 Contractors Avenue, Livermore. Refreshments. helping with “the cause," enjoying social ac- Livermore. For more information, please Congregation Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada Sunday service at 10 a.m. Sunday school Internet use classes, Pleasanton Library, tivities, and forming long-lasting friendships, contact Suzanne Slupesky: suzbeck@yahoo. Court, Pleasanton. Information 931-1055. provided. For information, contact Fr. Ben four-class series to learn to surf the Internet please contact Edith Caponigro at 925-998- com, 925-352-8447. Holy Cross Lutheran Church Sunday Brown at 925/906-9561. and send emails. Absolute beginners are 3500 or Jenny Whitehouse at 925-484-1273 Overeaters Anonymous. No weigh- Service 9:30 a.m. 1020 Mocho St., Livermore. Tri-Valley Church of Christ at 4481 East welcome. Classes are held at 9:00 am on for additional information. ins, dues or fees. Meetings Tuesdays and Information, 447-8840. Avenue, Livermore, worship service 10:30 to Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Registra- Livermore Community Blood Drive: Thursdays, 7 - 8 p.m. St. Barts, 678 Enos Way, Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, 1385 S. 11:45 a.m. Sundays, all are welcome. 925-447- tion is required. Reserve a spot at the Refer- Friday, April 27, 1-7 p.m., Asbury United Meth- Livermore. Call Nora for further information Livermore Avenue, Livermore. 8:30 a.m. wor- 4333 ( a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) ence Desk, or call 925/931-3400, extension odist Church, 4743 East Avenue. Every day, at (925) 447-1676 ship (semiformal); 9:45 a.m. adult Bible study/ Tri-Valley Unity Church will be moving 7. Call Merry Luskin at 925/931-3400 x 25 for Bay Area hospitals need hundreds of units Volunteer Case Managers Needed, Sunday school; 11 a.m. worship (informal). For to 9875 Dublin Canyon Rd., Castro Valley, as information. 400 Old Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. of blood to keep sick and injured patients The Tri-Valley Youth Court is looking for information, call 925-447-1246. of May 6. New classes, small groups, new Library programs are free and open to all. alive. There is no substitute for blood, and adult volunteers to act as Case Managers Asbury United Methodist Church, 4743 children's and teen programs, and inspiring Huge plant sale to benefit Livermore it can only be replaced by blood donations. for the middle and high school youth par- East Avenue, Livermore. 9 a.m. Sunday wor- Sunday services (at 10 a.m.). All are welcome. High School's Track and Field team. Land- Please register at www.redcrossblood.org ticipating in the program. Case Managers ship. Information 447-1950. Rev. Harriet Hawkins, minister. (925) 829- scaping plants, shrubs, groundcovers and and use ASBURY925 as the Sponsor Code, or contact their assigned cases to remind Calvary Chapel Livermore, Sunday 2733. www.trivalleyunity.com Check out more at or below wholesale prices. Sale call Thomas Petty at 925-980-8164 for more them of court nights, class dates and help Services 10:30 a.m. 545 N. L Street Livermore. Unity of Tri Valley on Facebook too.

12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012

Patriot Award Goes to Local Company

By Carol Graham representatives. Snippets of con- More than 85 men and women versation rung through the air, gathered on Fri., April 13, to at- uniting men and women with a sort tend an award ceremony as their of military shorthand particular to employer, Livermore’s Aero Pre- their service. “Retired navy…I cision, accepted the Patriot Award was a refueler…thanks for your from Employer Support of the service…Marine Corps - Oorah!... Guard and Reserve (ESGR). you look really familiar…Dyess “What a lot of folks don’t Air Force Base…I flew dC-10s… know,” said ESGR Vice Chair that’s like an easy chair!” John Woolley, “is that about 47% ESGR is the lead Department of our military forces are made up of Defense agency promoting of reservists. That’s a big number. cooperation and understanding Their employers have to give between civilian employers and people up so they can go defend their National Guard and Reserve our country in its time of need.” employees. Aero Precision Sales Manager “Reservists may be sent out and Navy Reservist Tony Schwarz three or four times,” said Woolley. nominated his employer for the “There is a big imposition on the award, noting, “Since 1993, this employer to cover the slot. The stocking distribution firm for mili- folks that we honor have done a tary aerospace parts and services remarkable job taking care of all has been extremely supportive of their employees plus those that of past and present United States are defending our nation.” military members. Schwarz said Aero Precision “They’ve supported deploy- currently employs 17 former mili- Pictured, from left, are Tom Clausen, ESGR; James Franklin, ESGR; Frank Cowle, President of Aero ments and mobilizations for mul- tary members from the U.S. Navy, tiple reservists. Additionally, the Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Precision; Lieutenant Commander Tony Schwarz, Regional Sales Manager at Aero Precision; Phil company has a Veteran Support Air Force. Twelve of these employ- Stage, ESGR; and John Woolley, ESGR. Group that meets monthly, ca- ees are in management positions, tering to the needs of veterans four are active reservists. law designed to protect civilian will be treated fairly and have the the pride and joy they felt knowing and hosting events celebrating Developing and promoting employment of non-full time opportunity to advance with their that our workplace honors and sup- military holidays, achievements, a culture in which all American military service members called to peers even though they may be ports its veterans,” said Schwarz. and the return of reservists from employers support and value the active duty); the Pro Patria (“For gone from their civilian jobs for “Many were solemn and reflected mobilization.” military service of their employees Country”) Award, presented to one periods of time.” on the sacrifices our servicemen During his 11 years of active is the chief mission of the ESGR. small, one large and one public- Following the ceremony, and women are making every day duty Schwarz served as a U.S. Founded in 1972, the agency sector employer that provide “Many people openly spoke of in combat.” Navy helicopter pilot. For the last operates through a network of outstanding leadership practices three years, he’s been a navy re- 4,500 volunteers, serving on 56 and personnel policies; and the servist serving Pacific Fleet Com- Field Committees, who advocate Secretary of Defense Employer mander Staff. “Aero Precision for relevant initiatives, recognize Support Freedom Award, the high- is a vet-friendly, small business outstanding support, increase est recognition given by the U.S. that hires local talent to service awareness of applicable laws, and Government to the nation’s top a global community of military resolve conflicts between employ- 15 employers who support their armed forces,” he said. ers and service members. Guard and Reservist employees. Accepting the award was Aero Along with the Patriot Award, “Employing Reserve members Precision’s president Frank Cowle given to employers for their su- who are defending our freedom following an invitation for, “Any- perior support of Guard and Re- is critical to maintaining a viable one who’s worn a uniform, that’s servist employees, the ESGR also and cost-effective military,” said a military uniform, to come on up bestows the Above and Beyond ESGR Military Outreach Coor- here and help us with this presen- Award, recognizing employers dinator Phil Stage. “Service men tation.” who have gone above and beyond and women need to have faith About 30 audience members the requirements of the Uniformed that they will have jobs with their moved to the front and shook Services Employment and Re- employers when they return from hands with the visiting ESGR employment Rights Acts (a 1994 military duty, and to know they