non-Profit Us PostaGe PaiD orinDa, ca Postal customer PerMit# 4

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tion from the City’s General Fund. Fund. General City’s the from tion rising maintenance and operating costs, it it costs, operating and maintenance rising

deficit was significantly offset by a contribu- a by offset significantly was deficit Library has begun to show its age. With With age. its show to begun has Library

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expenses exceeded revenue by $29,940. The The $29,940. by revenue exceeded expenses da’s crown, the 16-year-old Orinda Orinda 16-year-old the crown, da’s

in Fiscal Year 2015/16, the actual library library actual the 2015/16, Year Fiscal in onsidered one of the jewels in Orin- in jewels the of one onsidered

According to City Staff Report #1362, #1362, Report Staff City to According LIBRARY page 16] page LIBRARY S [ ee

oehn oHw bu 19 About Howl to Something

Staff Writer Staff

ing at putting a new Library Parcel Tax on on Tax Parcel Library new a putting at ing streams provide. provide. streams 18 Shopper Seasoned

By VALERIE COLBER VALERIE By The Orinda City Council is currently look- currently is Council City Orinda The needs additional funds than current revenue revenue current than funds additional needs The Orinda Association 3, 9-11 3, Association Orinda The

8 Reality Estate Real

14 Talk Mat’s

4 Editorial

16 ed Classifi

6 Time Car

17 Calendar

20 Buzz Business

15 Lines the Between

Students/Schools 13 - 16 - 13 Students/Schools

Performing/Visual Arts 2, 7, 12 7, 2, Arts Performing/Visual

Local Groups 5, 6, 8, 19 8, 6, 5, Groups Local

Around Town Around

5 Blotter Police

5 Closure Library

News

IN THIS ISSUE THIS IN

S [ HOUSING page 18] page HOUSING ee

a new non-profit 501(c)3 housing entity,” entity,” housing 501(c)3 non-profit new a

have to be Section 8, so we have created created have we so 8, Section be to have

city considering Parcel Tax to Maintain Library Maintain to Tax Parcel considering city new as part of the senior village, it would would it village, senior the of part as new

low income) project. “If we did anything anything did we “If project. income) low

new project will not be a Section 8 (very (very 8 Section a be not will project new

the existing garden does.” Unlike OSV, the the OSV, Unlike does.” garden existing the (OCC). “What the current senior village village senior current the “What (OCC). Maria Church, worked with Catholic Chari- Catholic with worked Church, Maria AAD ae7] page AWARDS S [ ee

vide similar areas for contemplation that that contemplation for areas similar vide land from the Orinda Community Church Church Community Orinda the from land Riley, through her links with the Santa Santa the with links her through Riley, (they speak a rare dialect) and tutor the the tutor and dialect) rare a speak (they

will create landscaped areas that will pro- will that areas landscaped create will created over 35 years ago thanks to a gift of of gift a to thanks ago years 35 over created raised nearly $3 million. $3 nearly raised accompany family to these appointments appointments these to family accompany

that we will be relocating the garden and and garden the relocating be will we that The Orinda Senior Village (OSV) was was (OSV) Village Senior Orinda The Riley’s tenure at EFO, the organization organization the EFO, at tenure Riley’s tal appointments, arrange for translators to to translators for arrange appointments, tal

new senior housing project. We recognize recognize We project. housing senior new add 35 to 40 new living spaces. spaces. living new 40 to 35 add tional Foundation of Orinda (EFO). During During (EFO). Orinda of Foundation tional drive family members to medical and den- and medical to members family drive

upper parking lot, as a spot for a smaller, smaller, a for spot a as lot, parking upper with the existing Orinda Senior Village, to to Village, Senior Orinda existing the with Club, and serving as president of the Educa- the of president as serving and Club, of volunteers to move the family (twice), (twice), family the move to volunteers of

the OCC parcel of land, the garden and the the and garden the land, of parcel OCC the ning a senior development in conjunction conjunction in development senior a ning on to Orinda Intermediate School Parents Parents School Intermediate Orinda to on insurance, get telephones, organize a team team a organize telephones, get insurance,

A A

Roberts. “We’re looking at the north part of of part north the at looking “We’re Roberts. Housing Foundation (OSHF), is plan- is (OSHF), Foundation Housing the Sleepy Hollow Parents Club, moving moving Club, Parents Hollow Sleepy the ily Community Services to arrange health health arrange to Services Community ily

be huge,” says OSV Board President Mark Mark President Board OSV says huge,” be new non-profit, the Orinda Senior Senior Orinda the non-profit, new working with Orinda schools, starting with with starting schools, Orinda with working the Oakland School District, the Lao Fam- Lao the District, School Oakland the

housing at all income levels continues to to continues levels income all at housing Orinda Garden Club. Riley spent 10 years years 10 spent Riley Club. Garden Orinda and County of Alameda Social Services, Services, Social Alameda of County and

Assistant Editor Assistant with the church is that the need for senior senior for need the that is church the with schools, the Church of Santa Maria and the the and Maria Santa of Church the schools, chairperson included interfacing with CCEB CCEB with interfacing included chairperson

By DAVID DIERKS DAVID By board recognizes and has been discussing discussing been has and recognizes board over 28 years, with intense focus on Orinda Orinda on focus intense with years, 28 over United States. Challenges Riley faced as as faced Riley Challenges States. United

Riley’s volunteer history in Orinda spans spans Orinda in history volunteer Riley’s relocation of a family from Burma to the the to Burma from family a of relocation

New Senior housing Proposal housing Senior New

Richard Westin. Westin. Richard ties of the East Bay (CCEB) to sponsor the the sponsor to (CCEB) Bay East the of ties

all Orindans,” says OCF Board Member Member Board OCF says Orindans,” all

significant contributions to a better life for for life better a to contributions significant

education and/or preservation of the environment. the of preservation and/or education for throughout orinda. throughout for

honoring an Orinda citizen who has made made has who citizen Orinda an honoring the William Penn Mott Jr. environmental award for displaying outstanding contributions in the area of of area the in contributions outstanding displaying for award environmental Jr. Mott Penn William the pots the orinda Garden club installed and cares cares and installed club Garden orinda the pots

James P. Wright’s Wright’s P. James Janet Riley Janet

renovation and reconstruction of the old Yellow house at 209 orinda Way earned earned Way orinda 209 at house Yellow old the of reconstruction and renovation with one of the the of one with Year the of ciitzen work of the Chamber and of Rotary in in Rotary of and Chamber the of work

contriBUteD Photo contriBUteD DaViD DierKs DaViD

award. “We are happy to continue the the continue to happy are “We award.

have sponsored the Citizen of the Year Year the of Citizen the sponsored have

Commerce and the Orinda Rotary Club Club Rotary Orinda the and Commerce

In past years, the Orinda Chamber of of Chamber Orinda the years, past In

Luini and Carol Penskar. Carol and Luini

two other local, long-time volunteers: Jim Jim volunteers: long-time local, other two

will also be special recognition awards for for awards recognition special be also will

Penn Mott Jr. Environmental Award. There There Award. Environmental Jr. Mott Penn

honored by the OA with the 2017 William William 2017 the with OA the by honored

Year Award while James Phillip Wright is is Wright Phillip James while Award Year

Riley won the OCF’s 2017 Citizen of the the of Citizen 2017 OCF’s the won Riley

on March 11, beginning at 6 p.m. Janet Janet p.m. 6 at beginning 11, March on

a gala dinner at the Orinda Country Club Club Country Orinda the at dinner gala a

lected two local residents to be honored at at honored be to residents local two lected

and the Orinda Association (OA) have se- have (OA) Association Orinda the and

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Orinda Community Foundation (OCF) (OCF) Foundation Community Orinda

ombining their efforts this year, the the year, this efforts their ombining

Assistant Editor Assistant

By DAVID DIERKS DAVID By

citizen of Year and Mott Environmental award Winners announced Winners award Environmental Mott and Year of citizen

March 2018 March Volume 33, number 3 3 number 33, Volume Delivered to 9,000 households and Businesses in orinda orinda in Businesses and households 9,000 to Delivered

Published by The Orinda Association Orinda The by Published Gratis 12 issues annually issues 12

N N O T EWS RINDA RINDA RINDA HE 2 n The Orinda news n March 2018 PerforMinG arts

Year of the Dog Golden Globe Winner, amanda McBroom at the Orinda Theatre, March 1 three special Dogs for March By Derek Zemrak Contributing Writer

fter beginning with a sold-out perfor- Amance by Tony Award-winner John Lloyd Young, the Orinda Theatre continues its “Live at the Orinda Theatre Concert Series” on March 1 with Golden Globe Winner, Amanda McBroom, and her mu- sical director and long-time collaborator, Michele Brourman. McBroom has been called “the great- est cabaret performer of her generation, an urban poet who writes like an angel and has a voice to match” and praised for her profound lyrics and smart humor. She came to the attention of music lovers when Bette Midler’s version of her song The Rose became the number one hit all over the world in 1979. In addition to Midler, her songs have been recorded by a wide va- riety of artists including Amy Poehler and contriBUteD Photo contriBUteD Photo Jack Black, Barry Manilow, Judy Collins, Cocoa and Puffs are Maltipoo rescue dogs. a special happy Birthday to Augustus who LeAnn Rimes, Harry Belafonte and many the brother and sister are 5 years old and turns 9 this month. the Golden retriever enjoy meeting people at the orinda Park and “works” at a law firm with the two-legged more. She and Brourman also wrote the sports field. they are cared for by carina and members of his family. he’s looking forward to songs for the 16 Universal Cartoon video. Patrick hanley. March 24 when he will wear a tux and be the Her extensive performance credits Best Dog at his “brother’s” wedding. include concerts around the world and musical theater productions in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Europe. contriBUteD Photo McBroom also recently celebrated the Golden Globe Winner Amanda McBroom appears release of Voices, her sixth recording on on March 1 Fitness Tip of the Month Gecko, the label she established in 1985. Don’t Give Up.... You are almost there! Her first two ground-breaking vinyl Tickets for the concert are available Set backs are common as we try to get in great shape. recordings, Growing Up in Hollywood online at www.lamorindatheatres.com or We lose focus and our eating goes off track or we stop Town and West of OZ, were recorded di- at the Orinda Theatre box-office. Ticket devoting time to working out, until we realize we miss it. rect to disc for Sheffield Labs and made prices range from $45 to $100 (VIP). On Then we choose to return to it with greater appreciation. McBroom an audiophile darling. the evening of the concert, Cine Cuvée The path to lifelong fitness is not linear, setbacks are a “Amanda McBroom is a legend in the Wine Bar will have food and drink specials normal part of the process. cabaret world. The definition of a true before the show. artist – her own compositions are like Remaining shows in the concert series For more information, contact Sheena with Living Lean personal training and eating for elite fitness, at 925-360-7051 or www.livingleanprogram.com. mini-movies, the kind that become your include: Amanda King (A Salute to Ella favorite films,” stated producer Michael Fitzgerald: The Early Years) on April 5. Williams. “And when she sings, it’s as if Tony Nominated Broadway star, Andrea she’s painting a beautiful picture, you can McArdle (Annie and Les Misérables) see the colors in your mind and you feel the will close the spring series on May 3. passion and the nuance in the many layers Subscriber and sponsorship packages are that she unfolds.” available. The Orinda news n March 2018 n 3 the orinDa association

a Message From the Oa President The Orinda association the orinda association is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to: Lucky O’rinda • Maintaining and improving the quality of life in orinda; • Promoting awareness and discussion of issues that are important to the community; • encouraging and recognizing volunteer efforts to enhance the beauty, character and security cindy Powell of orinda. P.o. Box 97 e are so lucky to live in the green Award went to Orinda Action Day Team 26 orinda Way (lower level library) orinda, california 94563 Whills of Orinda and are proud to keep for their green and clean projects and the Phone: 254-0800 fax: 254-8312 our town green and clean. The Orinda original Mott recipient in 1993, Toris Jaeger www.orindaassociation.org Library will be closed from March 2 - 14 has always been a green supporter. officers while fresh carpet will be placed in the Also, on March 11, Daylight Saving co-President cindy Powell BoarD MeMBers entire library. Maybe hold off on the book Time will move an hour of sunlight to the co-President anil comelo Jeremy conescu donations for this period. Although we evening hours, great for after-school activi- Vice President Joe Garvey Joe haughin – Board Member emeritus secretary carlos Baltodano chris laszcz-Davis love your great donations, the Friends may ties but not so great for getting up Monday treasurer Bill Waterman Jim luini – Board Member emeritus be a bit busy. What will we do without mornings. Membership Kate Wiley access to the Library? Here are a few The March Madness First Four (bas- city council liaison inga Miller suggestions . . . . ketball) starts March 13 and runs through On March 7, the State of the City the end of the month, the best part of the luncheon, hosted by Orinda Rotary, will season. Mathematicians in town are look- Senior resource center added to feature Orinda Mayor Amy Worth. She ing forward to March 14, Pi Day. I plan to will update us on issues facing our city celebrate by eating pie in their honor. Oa Offi ce and projects underway to enhance our Clean up your act on March 15, National By SALLY HOGARTY community. Also featured will be special Kick Butts Day and seize control against Editor recognition of outstanding Rotarians, as Big Tobacco. Events are organized around well as our local Chamber of Commerce’s the country to help raise awareness of hanks to a generous grant from the Business Awards. Get your tickets at the dangers of tobacco products, which TErnest and Lola Poll Foundation, OrindaRotary.org. includes vaping. administered by the Orinda Community On March 8, view the film Cool Hand It’s Saint Patrick’s Day on March 17, Foundation, the Orinda Association's Se- Luke for free at the Orinda Theatre. a day o’ celebrating Irish history and cus- niors Around Town (SAT) program has Coincidentally, it is also Popcorn Lovers toms. On this day, everyone is a little bit been able to add a Senior Resource Center Day. Popcorn is a good snack when made Irish. Sing The Green Hills of Orinda song to its office in the lower level of the library. with a light hand. Kettle Corn and flavored (to the tune of “The Green Hills of Ireland”) "We consistently receive calls from peo- popcorns are a “poppin” business, but they and think green as you do your Saturday ple out of the area who have aging parents are heavy on the sugar and fat. Go ahead, gardening. Use that green bin with pride! in Orinda wanting to know not only about Kate WileY enjoy some movie popcorn a nd share your The First Day of Spring is on the Vernal our SAT ride program but also about other orinda senior Village resident Eartha Newsong looks for information in the oa’s new senior re- bucket (after you wash your hands). Equinox, March 20, 9:15 a.m., Orinda time. resources available to seniors," explains source center. March 11 is the William Penn Mott, Head out and enjoy our parks with a nice SAT's Kate Wiley. "Setting up the resource Jr Environmental Award and Orinda walk in our green hills. center allows us easy access to a lot of mation on Orinda Rotary, Hospice, AARP, Citizen of the Year award celebration. On March 31, round up your tod- information, which is also very convenient at-home care services, residential senior Congratulations to James Wright and Janet dlers to second graders and head out for all the people who just stop by the of- facilities and much more. Riley! There will also be a special recog- to the Rotary Spring Egg Hunt in fice looking for various senior programs." The center is open Monday - Friday from nition for our famous volunteers, Carol Community Center Park. True March The Senior Resource Center, which used 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. For more information, call Penskar and Jim Luini. The 2013 Mott Madness! a portion of the Poll Grant, includes infor- 925-254-0800. The 14th annual Orinda classic car Show ark your calendar for Sept. 7 and 8 Mas Orinda's own premiere car show returns to the Village. This year's theme is "American Graf- fiti," and like the film of the same name, will feature the Classic American car -- the Thunderbird. It all begins with Dancing with the Cars at the Orinda Country Club on Friday, Sept. 7, followed by the Classic Car Show on Saturday, Sept. 8, in front of Orinda Motors and beyond! Up to 200 classic cars, trucks and motorcycles will be on display. To enter your special vehicle, go to www. orindacarshow.com. Last year's show sold out so register early. All proceeds from the weekend benefit local nonprofits, including the Orinda As- DaViD DierKs Ray English’s 1936 ford three Window coupe sociation's Seniors Around Town transpor- made an appearance at last year’s orinda clas- tation program. sic car show. 4 n The Orinda news n March 2018 eDitorial Editorial ... big thank you to all of you who sent Environmental Award Winner James Phil- Ain photos of your dogs. I wish I could lip Wright. For reservations to the awards have put them all in this issue. Hopefully, dinner on March 11, call 925-254-0800 or I’ll be able to include them in future issues. go online to www.orindaassociation.org/ If you want your dog’s photo considered, citizenoftheyear. email a high resolution photo to news@ Finally, a very Happy Saint Patrick’s orindaassociation.org. Day to all of you with Irish blood running Congratulations to our Citizen of the in your veins, even if it’s just on March 17! Year Janet Riley and William Penn Mott Jr. – Sally Hogarty, Editor Letters to the Editor ... No Valid Studies Boys) John Lloyd Young, in a dazzling In the recent article on the Local Ad- 80-minute show. If Mr. Young’s rendition justment to Legal Marijuana it stated of Unchained Melody did not stir your that the “health benefits have been well soul, then you are simply not human. And documented....” I am not sure that is factual. the acoustics of Orinda Theatre proved to There are few, if any, scientifically valid be spot-on. studies that substantiate that statement. Have you been longing for a more vibrant Unfortunately, currently it is against the downtown Orinda? Well, take a look here. law to perform such necessary studies. I Orinda doesn’t need more Urban Plan- believe there are indeed valid medicinal ners, just unleash the Party Planners! Bravo List of The Orinda News advertisers uses; however, attesting to specific benefits and thank you to Derek Zemrak, Tish and Page Page based on anecdotal evidence and potentially Steve Harwood and others, for making this Automotive Professional Property Management 19 orinda Motors 6 taxi Bleu 19 biased opinions does not help dealing with happen. orinda shell auto care 10 Real Estate the challenges facing us. In 2017, the Orinda City Council hired Beauty and Fitness coldwell Banker – Richard Shoop, MD National Main Street Center (NMSC) coreKinetics 11 laura abrams 11 consultants to make recommendations for living lean exercise & eating Program 2 suzanne toner Geoffrion 10 Churches shellie Kirby 15 Library Tax and Building is Non- restoring economic vibrancy to Orinda’s st. stephen’s episcopal church 20 Maureen Wilbur 20 sense downtown. Those recommendations cen- Cleaning Services Pacific Union I read your article about raising taxes tered on leveraging Orinda’s experience Kirby carpet cleaning 14 Virginia and Paul ratto 8 for the library. It was of little interest to and know-how in executing special events, Dental leila schlein 5 Dr. Mary smith DDs 12 Prime Vintage realty me because the “information” presented not on constructing high density, residential Educational rodney lal 19 was all opinion, mostly from Amy Worth. structures. Food Truck Thursdays, and now, orinda Parks & rec 20 Village associates Information missing was: the First Thursday Cabaret Series at the orinda Union school District 13 Dexter honens ii 3 1. How many people actually use the Orinda Theatre, are noteworthy steps in Garden/Landscaping april Matthews 7 Blue ridge landscaping 9 ann sharf 13 library over a specified period of time? that strategy. No other operating venue, lo- McDonnell nursery 5 steve stahle 3 2. What does it cost to run the library? cated between the Lesher Center in Walnut tree sculpture 7 clark thompson 5 3. How will the added money wanted add Creek and the Fox/Paramount Theatres in Medical Restaurants/Catering to the “value” of the library? Oakland, could have pulled this off. Dr. Brian clark 12 Baan thai 14 Medicine shoppe 8 casa orinda 3 This necessary information is obviously So get the baby sitter lined up now for Non-Profits farmers’ Market 12 essential to make an informed opinion on the first Thursday evening in March, April educational foundation of orinda (efo) 12 la Mediterranee 18 this issue. Its omission from your article is and May. Three more shows are scheduled the orinda association 2 Piccolo napoli 19 clearly an intent to conceal the information. in this initial cabaret series. Interested? Get Pet Service siam orchid 18 animal house Pet sitting 1 taverna Pellegrini 11 This is the 21st Century. Using a large your tickets now, before they sell out, like theatre View Veterinary clinic 19 Retail and expensive building to house paper the first show. And no, I have no direct Professional Services Mccaulou’s 8 books is nonsense! financial interest in this matter, just civic 5a rent-a-space 9 orinda Books 15 The same information housed as .txt files pride. Well done, Orinda! cruise adventures Unlimited 9 rechic 18 Kattenburg architects 10 and other formats on a small hard drive – Owen Murphy is far cheaper. It is also better since such far too young, to know that his or her last pass a few years ago. However, our GVRO data bases are typically searchable by title, Parkland, Florida Shooting moments were full of terror and pain – and law only works if people know about it, in- subject, author, and many other criteria. If you’re a teacher like me, the day of to know that you were unable to protect or cluding law enforcement and the courts. I Computers, tablets and ebooks are get- the shooting in Parkland, FL, was hard for comfort your child in his or her final mo- encourage people to visit speakforsafety. ting cheaper and better every year. Yes, you. Each time I hear about another school ments. I can’t imagine how I would ever org to learn more about this law that can I advocate creative destruction! Lets shooting, it gets harder. recover from such a loss. To live with that help save lives and prevent shootings like phase out the library and use the building First, it’s hard because I’m a teacher. grief seems unbearable. the tragedy in Parkland, Fl. for something more useful. Paper book No child should be killed – or be afraid of And third, it’s hard because I’m a citizen It’s simply unacceptable that we have libraries are obsolete! being killed – while at school. School is a of a country whose leaders seem to have allowed guns to terrorize children at school – Henry R. Pinney place for learning, socializing and grow- abandoned their responsibility to pass – not to mention people worshipping in ing. It should not be a place of danger. As laws that will keep children safe. Instead, religious services, or gathering at concerts, Orinda Cabaret Scores a teacher, I worry that if a shooter should they treat school shootings as unavoidable nightclubs, movie theaters or shopping “Is this Orinda or is this Vegas!?” Such assault my students, I might not be able to dangers, like a tornado or an earthquake – malls. It’s got to stop – before the next was uttered by the exiting crowd of the protect them. If I survived, how could I live a force of nature that can’t be prevented. shooting. sold-out, inaugural show in the First Thurs- with that knowledge? But these shootings can be prevented. Write to your representatives. Make day Cabaret Series at the Orinda Theatre on Second, it’s hard because I’m a parent. Lawmakers could pass laws to enact com- them hear your voice. Tell them we Feb 1. Big-time, professional, live, musical It hurts when I try to imagine how devastat- mon sense gun laws, like the Gun Violence want the killing of our children to stop. entertainment came to downtown Orinda in ing it would be to lose my child in a school Restraining Order that our state legislators Please. the person of Tony Award-winning (Jersey shooting. To know that your child has died here in California had the good sense to – Alison Waterman

The Orinda News prints 9,000 copies and is published 12 times a Opinions of The Orinda News are expressed on the year by The Orinda Association. The office is located at 26 Orinda The Orinda News editorial page. Views of writers and letters to the editor are Way (lower level of the Library). All rights reserved. The publication is A Publication of their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The sent out by direct mail (Permit #4, Orinda Post Office) and distributed The Orinda Association Orinda Association or of The Orinda News. Advertisements to key locations throughout the city. Mailing Address P.O. Box 97 appearing in The Orinda News are not to be construed as Orinda, California 94563 endorsements by The Orinda Association or The Orinda News. Editor ...... Sally Hogarty Telephone: 925 254-0800 Assistant Editor ...... David Dierks Letters to the Editor are printed on a space-available Copy Editor ...... Ken Hogarty basis and should be no longer than 400 words. They must in- Advertising Representatives ...... Jill Gelster, Elana O’Loskey www.orindanews.org clude the writer’s first and last name, signature and telephone Editorial Committee ...... Carol Brown, Jill Gelster, Sally Hogarty, number. Lynn Kalmar, Jim Luini, Elana O’Loskey, Send letters to: Editor, The Orinda News, P.O. Box 97, Mark Roberts, Bill Waterman, Kate Wiley Orinda, CA 94563, or email to [email protected]. Staff Writers ...... Valerie Colber, Jennifer Conroy, Bobbie Dodson, Letters to Editor for the April issue are due March 2018. Valerie Hotz, Barbara Kobsar, Kathryn G. McCarty, 8, Elana O’Loskey, Chelsea Pelchat, Cindy Powell, Maria Roden, John Vanek, Maureen Wilbur Contributing Writers ...... Heidi Meyer, Joseph Knox, Derek Zemrak For display advertising rates, call Jill Gelster at 925-528- Graphics ...... Aspen Consulting: Jill Gelster & David Dierks 9225 ([email protected]) or Elana O’Loskey at 925-984- Printing ...... Folger Graphics 1751 ([email protected]). The deadline for the April issue is The OA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. March 8, 2018. The Orinda News n March 2018 n 5 Veterans / Police Creating Valentines for Veterans POLICE BLOTTER December 31, 2017 through February 10, 2018

Calls for Service Reckless Driving: 13 incidents. 911 Hangup: 7 incidents. Run Away Juvenile: 1 incident. Abandoned Vehicle: 1 incident. School Check: 12 incidents. Accident Injury: 5 incidents. Security Check: 48 incidents. Accident Property: 18 incidents. Service to Citizen: 155 incidents. Alarm, False: 108 incidents. Shoplift: 2 incidents. Barking Dog: 4 incidents. Suspicious Circumstances: 12 incidents. Burglary, Commercial: 3 incidents. Suspicious Person Stop: 14 incidents. Civil Matter: 11 incidents. Suspicious Subject: 21 incidents. County Solicitor Permit: 2 incidents. Suspicious Vehicle: 17 incidents. Court: 3 incidents. Suspicious Vehicle Stop: 12 incidents. CVC Moving Violation: 143 incidents. Tow: 6 incidents. CVC Non-Moving Violation: 80 inci- Traffic Collision/Property Damage: 2 dents. incidents. Death Non Criminal: 2 incidents. Traffic Hazard: 5 incidents. Disturbing the Peace: 4 incidents. Trespass: 3 incidents. Domestic Disturbance: 1 incident. Trespass with Vehicle: 2 incidents. Fire/EMS Response Info: 2 incidents. Vacation House Check: 50 incidents. MAYA VASUDEVAN Found Property: 1 incident. Vandalism: 4 incidents. Mindful Littles practice yoga, led by Travis and his “little” Gabriella at the Contra Costa Day School in Lafayette. Fraud, Credit Card: 1 incident. Vehicle Theft: 6 incidents. Fraud, False Pretenses: 2 incidents. Verbal Dispute: 5 incidents. By Sally Hogarty Grand Theft: 4 incidents. Violation Custody Order: 3 incidents. Editor Grand Theft from Building: 1 incident. Welfare Check: 20 incidents. Harassment: 1 incident. n Feb. 11, Mindful Littles partnered Hit & Run Misdemeanor: 3 incidents. Arrest Owith Veteran’s PATH to put together Identity Theft: 3 incidents. Defrauding an Innkeeper: 1 arrest. peace kits and valentines for veterans. Juvenile Disturbance: 4 incidents. Drunk in Public: 1 arrest. The day also included learning about the Loitering: 1 incident. DUI Arrest: 2 arrests. importance of our veterans and practicing Lost Property: 1 incident. Probation Violation Arrest: 1 arrest. yoga with Travis, a veteran, and his very Loud Noise: 2 incidents. Resisting, Delaying, or Obstructing an own “little,” Gabriella. He and Gabriella Loud Party: 2 incidents. Officer: 1 arrest. led a group of “bigs” and “littles” in yoga Medical Hospital: 8 incidents. Recovered Stolen Vehicle: 2 recoveries. movement while narrating a story created Medical Police Needed: 1 incident. Shoplifting: 1 arrest. by Gabrielle. Motorist Assist: 4 incidents. Warrant Arrest: 5 arrests. Veteran’s Path is committed to helping Occupied Stalled Vehicle: 9 incidents. veterans find meaning, purpose and healing Ordinance Violation: 13 incidents. BART Statistics through mindfulness and outdoor experi- Outside Assist: 33 incidents. No incidents reported. ences. An Orinda-based nonprofit, Mindful Panhandling: 1 incident. Littles hopes to inspire children and parents MAYA VASUDEVAN Parking Detail: 168 incidents. – Compiled by David Dierks This “little” creates a Valentine for a veteran. to be more mindful and compassionate Patrol Request: 45 incidents. Assistant Editor through meaningful service projects, edu- resources. For more information, go to Petty Theft: 3 incidents. cational workshops and everyday parenting www.mindfullittles.org. Phone, Harass: 1 incident. For more incidents details, visit www. Public Assembly Check: 3 incidents. crimereports.com Orinda Library Will be Closed Public Nuisance: 6 incidents. from March 2 through 14 By Sally Hogarty If your group regularly meets in the Editor May Room, you should have already been reassigned to another room. If not, contact ue to the installation of new carpeting the Park and Recreation Department at Din the Orinda Library, the library will 925-254-2445. be closed for 13 days beginning on March The downstairs book drop will be open 2. It will reopen on March 15. during the closure, but holds will not be “We want to give our patrons the best available for pickup. Users needing library possible experience and replacing the services during the closure can visit the carpet is going to improve an already Lafayette or Moraga libraries or any other beautiful facility, said County Librarian Contra Costa County Library. Melinda Cervantes. “We appreciate our Meetings and programs scheduled in the continuing partnership with the City of Library Auditorium and Garden Room will Orinda.” not be affected. The installation will also impact the May For more information, contact Se - Room on the Plaza Level as many items nior Community Library Manager Si- from the library will be stored there during erra Campagna at [email protected] or the installation. 925- 254-2184. 6 n The Orinda news n March 2018 cars / eXchanGe stUDent Car Time Want to host an Exchange Student? technology: Making Your Vehicle More expensive to repair By JOHN VANEK

ver the years, technological advance- are not meant to be used like normal. They Oments have made modern vehicles can get you to the tire shop where you can easier to operate while offering more get a needed replacement. They are not re- entertainment features and added safety. pairable and they run $300 to $500 each. It Technology also has eliminated some is something to think about when looking at maintenance items that reduce some costs buying a new car. Most technology-based of operation. We have spark plugs that options will indeed cost more to repair last one hundred thousand miles and even when they fail. This includes electronic transmissions that require no maintenance options like Bluetooth and navigation sys- at all. I am not sure if that last one is a good tems. Power operated sliding doors and idea or not. Technology can be a great thing. hatch doors are handy but expensive to fix What saves you on maintenance, however, when they fail. Most new vehicles have may cost you more in the long run. optional packages that include many fea- Technology has been improving automo- tures as a bundle. This will also affect the biles since their invention. New vehicles original purchase price of the vehicle. Some come with high tech features that improve vehicles require high-tech design for new your driving experience but cost more to ultra-efficient engines. It is more expensive. contriBUteD Photo fix later. The technology allows us to have These are all things to understand before (front row) Cara Hoxie, exchange student Marek Fenci, Tim Hoxie; (back row) Ben, Teddy, Philip Hoxie. brighter lights and tires that can be driven you purchase a new vehicle. on a flat. You may have noticed that newer We now have vehicles that can park By JOSEPH KNOX understanding between cultures. And since vehicles have really bright lights. Some themselves, stop themselves and even drive Contributing Writer its establishment, the Orinda/Tabor Sister utilize LED type bulbs that are not replace- themselves! Vehicles have doors that open City Foundation, along with Orinda Lions able. They are supposed to last longer, but automatically. Neat and scary at the same t’s time to select the next Orinda family Club and Orinda Rotary Club, has sent they do still fail. It is a big surprise for a time. I am afraid that getting used to a car Ito host a high school exchange student educators to Tabor to teach English, has Prius owner to have to fork out over $400 that stops by itself will make you forget from Orinda’s Sister City, Tabor, in the sponsored fellowships for physicians from to replace the complete tail light when it when you are driving your other vehicle Czech Republic. Maybe this year, it will Tabor, and has sponsored a Czech visiting looks like just a bad bulb. You could be a that does not stop for you automatically. be you! Our next exchange student is Marie student at Miramonte High School each fall Lexus owner and pay over $1,200 for a head Perhaps a conversation for another day. Ruzickova, who arrives in August 2018 and semester for the past 16 years. lamp to fix your headlight bulb. Now, these Safety versus lazy? stays until approximately the first week of If you are interested in hosting Marie new style headlights work better than ever, The point now is to be a good consumer February 2019. Rozickova, the Orinda/Tabor Sister City and there is a value that includes safety and of automobiles when looking to purchase a First, a little background. In 1997, the Foundation is considering candidate reduced accidents. We can chalk it up to the new vehicle. Do your research and under- cities of Orinda and Tabor, in the Czech families. Learn more at www.orindatabor- new normal. stand the features included and the ramifi- Republic, honored the legacy conceived sistercity.org, and email Bobbie Landers Some of these features offer items we can cations of the technology used, including and initiated by President Dwight D. at [email protected] to express live without but may not want to. Run flat the type of oil required. Understand the Eisenhower, by becoming “Sister Cities.” interest in hosting Rozickova. She will tires allow manufactures to eliminate put- options available and the style of lights that The Sister City program encourages inter- arrive in early August and depart in early ting a spare tire in the car. The “run flats” [See CAR TIME page 8] national friendship, communication and [See CZECH page 8] The Orinda News n March 2018 n 7 Performing Arts C al Shakes Guiding Stars Fundraiser on March 10

By SALLY HOGARTY and Support will also be presented to: actor Editor Jim Carpenter, whose performances have moved audiences and inspired the next alifornia Shakespeare Theater will generation of actors; educator/actor Tristan Chonor Oakland-born playwright Mar- Cunningham for her work as a dedicated cus Gardley with its Guiding Star Award teaching artist working with youth at Cal for his play, black odyssey, at a gala event Shakes and beyond; artist/investigator on March 10 at the Claremont Club and Tatiana Chaterji, who has led Cal Shakes’ Spa in Berkeley. residency in the Federal Correctional Insti- The lyrical and spiritual work played tute at Dublin; and to business partner John to sold-out houses at Cal Shakes last Muir Health for their steadfast support and summer. recognition that art is critical to healthy Cal Shakes Artistic Director Eric Ting communities. says, “Marcus’ ability to tell powerful sto- The evening begins with a cocktail recep- ries in fresh ways helps us to learn more tion, raffles and games, followed by dinner, KEVIN BERNE about ourselves and each other and inspires an awards presentation, a live auction with J. Alphonse Nicholson in last season’s production of black odyssey at California Shakespeare Theater. us in our pursuit of artistic excellence and auctioneer Greg Quiroga and dancing to social impact.” live music. from page 1 t AwARDS in, like today’s hot fresh air, and sends Luminary Awards to individuals and Guiding Star tickets begin at $350. Call family. Having settled the Burmese family, it through a heat exchanger, so the stale organizations who exemplify the Theater’s 510-899-4907 or email events@calshakes. Riley is mentoring the next chairperson air going out becomes the temperature of four core pillars of Make, Learn, Engage org to purchase. who is working with a family of 10 from the fresh air going in. It never cross con- Afghanistan. taminates.” Wright’s heating/ventilation Currently, Riley is focused on a huge systems uses under 50 watts of power an Lamorinda ShortDocs Film Fest Extends event for the Orinda Garden Club as co- hour. chair of the Annual Meeting Flower Show The addition of solar cells in the attic, Entries to Include Neighboring Towns in San Francisco taking place in April as tied to skylights for natural light on the part of the Garden Club of America’s Na- upper floors, also helps with energy conser- By SALLY HOGARTY tional Meeting. The Orinda Garden Club vation. Wright addresses this with passion: Editor is in charge of the welcome event and is “The orientation of the roof is beautiful for running the flower show at the meeting. natural solar, so I get natural light inside, as amorinda Arts Council (LAC) hosts its The flower show will take over the atrium well as creating electricity. Along with the LThird Annual ShortDocs Film Fest at of the Hyatt Regency, San Francisco, and geo-cavity encapsulation of the basement, the Lafayette Library and Learning Center display over 400 entries during the meet- these two renewable energy sources will on April 15 at 3 p.m. Originally scheduled ing. The meeting is open to the public on allow me to ‘Net Zero’ the house. Mean- for Feb. 11, this documentary film festival Apr. 28 and 29. ing, annually, it’s energy consumption will provides local filmmakers an opportunity Wright receives the William Penn Mott net zero. In the summer, I’m generating a to create new work as well as showcase it Jr. Environmental Award for his work on lot of electricity; in the winter, I’m using at a community screening. restoring and renovating The Old Yellow what I banked in the summer.” Wright Originally open only to anyone five years House at 209 Orinda Way. The Old Yellow received the Green Building Award from of age or older who lives, works or attends House, originally built in 1890, had been Sustainable Contra Costa and a Certificate school in Orinda, Lafayette or Moraga, this vacant since 1966 until Wright purchased of Special Congressional Recognition from year’s festival extends eligibility to include the property in 2012 from Ezra Nelson. the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015 Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Martinez and The Nelson family bought the property in for outstanding leadership commitment to Concord. Film submissions, which are 1918 and Ezra’s son, David, still lives next sustainable practices and serving as a role due March 18, will be judged in one of door. Wright chose the property to show- model to others to build healthy, sustainable four categories: elementary school, middle case his skills developing geo-solar passive communities. school, high school and adult. One student Contributed Photo houses. “My plan was to renovate and re- Wright is currently working with the made film will also be selected as an Audi- Jack Nixon, winner of the 2016 Best Short Docu- mentary by an Elementary School Student and build, maintaining the original appearance City of Orinda to get the Old Yellow House ence Favorite. 2017 Best Short Documentary Film by a Middle while showing how a historical dwelling designated as a museum and cultural center. “We had expected there to be enough School Student with ShortDocs Judge Julie Rubio. could become super energy efficient,” “The Old Yellow House as a learning center novice and intermediate filmmakers in says Wright. The home is now sustainably will promote sustainable stewardship of the Lamorinda to sustain the festival annually, months and expanding the geographical finished and occupied by Wright. Earth and its people by revealing and en- but we have learned that even the most suc- area of eligibility, we hope to bring this “Passive House is a movement in con- hancing our social connections in heritage, cessful filmmakers do not necessarily enter year’s festival to a whole new level.” struction which essentially reduces the education, health and artistic expression,” every year,” says LAC Managing Director The community screening on April 15 energy consumption of the building up to says Wright. and Festival Producer Meredith Friedman. will feature selected films and accompa- 90 percent. In a Passive House, we keep the Wright is also planning a 100-year an- “That, combined with an unusually hard nying award presentations. To learn more dwelling in an isolated thermal envelope niversary party for the Nelson family. The cold and flu season this year, we just didn’t about the Lamorinda ShortDocs Film Fest and abandon the basement or crawlspace,” party will be in the fall, near the Equinox, see the submissions roll in by the deadline. competition and to enter go to http://www. Wright explains. He sealed the basement, and the public will be invited. St. Mark’s By postponing this year’s festival for two lamorindaarts.org/shortdocs. created a geo-cavity and installed two United Methodist Church has agreed to energy recovery ventilators for the fresh provide parking, and a shuttle will run from air ventilation system: “There’s one for the church to the Old Yellow House. the whole home ventilation and the other For more information about and tickets is for the geo-cavity. The geo-cavity basi- to the March 11 awards dinner, visit www. cally takes the fresh air that is coming orindaassociation.org/citizenoftheyear. 8 n The Orinda news n March 2018 real estate/local orGaniZations

real Estate reality aaUW ashley holmer speaker for March lamorinda’s real estate Market shley Holmer will speak at the 2018 Year to Date AAmerican Association of Univer- sity Women (AAUW) meeting on March 20, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Orinda MAUREEN WILBUR Community Church Fellowship Hall, 21 Irwin Way, in Orinda. Holmer founded the Red Sweater ince the Federal Tax Law changes, there average sales price was $1,575,768 and Project, a non-profit organization that Shas been lots of commentary on its ef- the median sales price was $1,229,000 collaborates with developing com- fects on the California Real Estate Market. with an average DOM for actives 33 days, munities in rural Tanzania to create Here are the facts, year to date, for our local for pending listings 66 days, and for sold affordable, accessible and innovative Lamorinda market. The data collected is listings 78 days. opportunities for secondary education from the Contra Costa Association of Real- With a total of 60 active single-family where it currently does not exist for the tors. I collected the data for single family homes on the market in the Lamorinda majority of children. The organization homes only on Feb. 9, 2018. market to date, the inventory is still low. has become a model for other interna-

Lafayette has 24 active properties for Interest rates have risen slightly but remain tional development programs, seeking to contriBUteD Photo sale, 13 pending and seven sold properties. low. In this writer’s opinion, Lamorinda create partnerships that honor tradition Ashley Holmer. The average sales price was $1,099,143 and home buyers are looking for a place to call and local leadership, encourage sustain- the median sales price was $1,160,000 with home with safe, clean communities and ability, and recognize education as a For more information, go to www. the average days on the market or DOM for great schools. Tax deductibility is the last crucial step in interrupting the cycle of oml-ca.aauw.net or email Marty Schim- active listings 30 days, for pending listings consideration for most home buyers when generational poverty. bor at [email protected]. 19 and for sold listings eight days. purchasing a home to live and raise a fam- Moraga has 11 active properties for sale, ily in or as a way to fulfill their “American eight pending and eight sold properties. Dream.” According to tax experts, many Walk for awareness The average sales price was $1,421,813 home owners were unable to deduct their and the median sales price was $1,239,000 property taxes over the past years due to the ver 64,000 Americans lost their lives Walk the non-competitive 5K in memory with the DOM for active listings 21 days, Federal Alternative Minimum Tax or AMT. Oin 2016 from drug overdoses, and the of a loved one or in support of someone pending listings four days, and for sold Look for the column mid-year with Lam- majority of them were linked to prescribed in recovery. Provide additional support listings, 22 days. orinda sales data. painkillers and synthetic opioids such as by building a walk team of friends, fam- Orinda has 25 active properties for sale, You can reach Maureen Wilbur at www. heroin and fentanyl. Help local preven- ily and co-workers. Cost is $25/walker 10 pending and seven sold properties. The MaureenWilbur.com. tion coalitions by participating in the 4th and includes a free event T-shirt. Reg- annual "Dose of Awareness" 5K Walk/ istration: https://www.eventbrite.com/ Health Expo, a family friendly event with preview?eid=42104458569. t CZECH from page 6 to visit Prague and Tabor and see where free Health Expo. Not available to participate? Donate to February. Rozickova was selected after a Marek grew up. Having Marek with us in Enjoy interactive youth activities, vital support our prevention work at http://www. rigorous competition based on essays and the meantime has been a joy. He has been resources and info. Special guest speakers, ncapda.org. English competency. a fourth son to us. including ABC7/KGO TV news anchor Questions? Contact [email protected] or The host family will provide a bedroom, Dan Ashley. 925-480-7723. meals and transportation to Miramonte The Knox Family High School. The student, typically a junior We hosted Karel Balough who was a se- or senior, enrolls in a full class schedule nior at Miramonte, while our son Will was college. Since we weren’t quite ready to be and it was our pleasure to show him a slice just like other students, and also usually a junior. Karel, a talented soccer player, “empty-nesters,” and we thought it would of America while learning more about his participates in Miramonte clubs or sports. and Will both have played varsity soccer be a great opportunity to change someone’s life and where he comes from. We bought The experience of some past Orinda host for Miramonte. Since Will’s older brother life, we applied to host a student. Since then a Gold Eagle pass from the park service families might suggest the value of the was at college, it was really great seeing we have hosted another student, the brother and used it many times over going from experience for your family: Will and Karel playing soccer like brothers. of our first student, and tried to be involved great places like the Grand Canyon and All of us, including Will’s grandmother, in the lives of some of the other students. Yosemite, to smaller local places such as The Hoxie Family have since visited Tabor, and Karel’s fam- Little did we know how dramatically our King’s Canyon and Ano Nuevo, enjoying Hosting a student from the Czech Re- ily. When Will graduated Miramonte, he lives and the lives of our children would re-seeing amazing places we had not visited public is a fantastic experience. We have went to visit Karel in Tabor, and they then be changed. We made new friends in the for a long time. In addition, we took him had a wonderful time watching Ted, our traveled to Spain together. Hosting Karel’s Czech community. We saw our country to cities and towns up and down the West youngest, and Marek, our host student, first Thanksgiving was so special for Karel and community through new eyes. We had Coast, meeting our extended family and bond. Ted calls Marek “his brother from that we flew him out the following year to wonderful discussions about the world. sharing holidays. Beyond that, the Orinda another mother.” Marek has been with us spend Thanksgiving with us again after he We now have a Czech family that we visit Sister Cities program is a vibrant local com- for six months. He has been a part of our had returned to Tabor. We keep in touch all and who visit us. The Sister City program munity that we continue to engage with and family, participating in pretty much ev- the time, and he really has become like a truly has an impact on the host family that enjoy. We hope to visit the Czech Republic erything we’ve done since August. He has member of our family. you do not realize until you start your “host soon to see Adam’s home town first-hand. been (mostly with us, but also with others family” commitments. These relationships Who’s next? Your family? in town) to LA (Disneyland), Lake Tahoe, The Thompson Family last a lifetime. Thank you to Bobbie Land- and other great places. Ted and Marek talk We mulled over the request for a host ers for starting this life-altering program! about getting together in Europe, perhaps family for a Sister City student for six as early as this summer. And we would like months. Our youngest child had just left for The Faulkner Family t CAR TIME from page 6 For the Fall of 2016, we were the host are used. Also, understand that overall, new family for the Orinda Sister City program, vehicles will have improved features that and we hosted Adam Krauss, a really good will cost more to own and repair. I am al- experience on a number of levels. Adam is ways available for automotive consultation. an amazing young man who has already John Vanek can be reached at john@ been able to accomplish a lot in his life, orindamotors.com. The Orinda News n March 2018 n 9 The Orinda Association Orinda Association Supporters and Friends Kay & David Aaker Bonnie Bell David & Susan Calkins Jim & Kris Abrams Barbara & Walter Bell Bernard & Elizabeth Linda & Todd Adler Laurence W. Berger Cappelli,Jr. Hassan & Connie Ahmadza- Berry Brothers Amy Carey deh William Bondy Barbara Carrigg Alliant Insurance Services Jim & Delores Bonnar Jacqueline Carroll Lynne Alper Gerry Bonner Norris & Carolyn Cash Carol Alvord David Bonneville Sally D. Chapman Paul & Mary Sue Ammon Boomerangcast LLC Michael Chin & Mari Roland Andersen Severin & Margaret Bo- Breazeale Becky Anderson renstein Lei-Ching Chou David & Sandra Anderson Stewart & Joyce Bowers Chee & Joan Chow John Anderson Steve & Marcia Boyd John & Ann Cinderey Joyce & Stephen Arnon David & Elizabeth Boyle City of Orinda Tom & Marianne Aude Andrew Branagh Sheila & Robert Clarke Alex & Yvette Axelrode Lyn & Jack Branagh Cara Cline Wesley T. Ayers Louise Breber Richard S. Colman William Babcock Jr. Betty Brotherton Anil Comelo Lesley Benn Jacalyn Buettner Coldwell Banker- Patti SALLY HOGARTY John Bacon & Patty Bolich Rachel & Jason Burge Camras The All Volunteer Marching Band is always a highlight of The Orinda Association’s 4th of July parade. Jonathan Bacon & Anne Gail Burke Coldwell Banker Orinda Barbara Edwards Dr. & Mrs. Weylin Eng Philip & Nancy Estes Randolph Jerome & Gloria Burke Office David & Lynne Ehlers Peter Engstrom Ingrid Evans Jonathon & Shelley Bagg Burkhalter Family Computer Simplicity Isabel & Sean Ehringer Leslie & Joan Enloe Thomas Fellner Jeff & Ruth Bailey Robert & Karen Burt Jeremy Conescu Peter & Sue Elkind Entourage Day Spa Bob & Debbie Ferguson Kath & Barry Balamuth California Bank of Com- Barbara Conley Joyanne Elkinton-Walker Lynn & Len Epstein Carlos Baltodano merce Stephen Controulis [See OA page 10] Patricia Ellsworth Robert & Betty Erikson Cindy & Brad Barber California Independent Anne Copenhagen Paul & Jean Barnhart Film Festival Paul J. Cortese Reg & Kathy Barrett California Shakespeare Bill Cosden Tom & Marcia Beales Theater Don & Susan Couch Joyce Crawford Larry & Nancy Crevin R.L. & D.A. Cummings Richard & Susan Curry Thomas & Leota Curtis Lisa Cvecko Mrs. William Dabel Diablo Foods F.J. & Ellen Dale Daniel & Dianne Danzig Frank & Rhonda Darling Gerald & DeeAnn Del Rio Craig & Mary Dennis Edward & Carol Dewey Peter & Patricia Dinkelspiel Charles & Carol Diraimon- do Rajiv & Rashmi Dixit Bobbie & Fred Dodson Don Jose’s Restaurant Alvan & Heidi Donner Connie & Ken Doty Jeanne Dowell Steve & Stephanie Downs Ardith B. Draeger Steven Draeger Mark & Luann Duggan Jeffrey & Anna Duncan Bruce & Ann Dunn Lou & Roger Dunn SALLY HOGARTY Mary Jane Duthie T wo young parade attendees can’t wait for the next float and the Sandra S. Earl potential candy that might be tossed their way. Henry & Vera Eberle 10 n The Orinda News n March 2018 The Orinda Association t OA from page 9 Joe & Margaret Govednik David Graeven Kathy & John Fernbacher Steven Giacomi & Linda The Grubb Company Alfred Ferreira Cyrog Shirley Haag Gus & Sugar Filice Pete Giers George Hall First Republic Bank Bekki Gilbert Nancy Hall Ellie & Bob Fisher Dianne Gilbert Pam & Alan Hall Charles Fisher Karen Derr Gilbert Harriet Hamlin Joe & Virgie Fitzpatrick Gillin, Jacobson, Ellis Jud & Judy Hammon Harry & Barbara Fledder- A.N. & E.R. Glazer Robert & June Haring man Patricia Gleason Peter & Grace Hartdegen Ed & Barbara Flinn Christie & John Hastings Valerie & Doug Floyd Share your Widgie Hastings Cordelia Foell Joe & June Haughin Janice Fong leadership and Stephen & Tish Harwood Emidio & Mary Fonseca Robert & Arlene Hegarty Susan & Gary Forman experience, Bea Heggie Jeri Foster Holly & Gerry Henkel Gary & Barbara Fouts Chip & Carolyn Herman Kathy Frenklach join a local Stephen & Jackie Herrin Linda & Dan Friedman board. Harold & Diane Hill Peggy Fuerst William & Louise Hinkamp SALLY HOGARTY Jim & Julie Fulford Gayl Hirschfeld Attendees at a past OA awards banquet at the Orinda Country Club. Kevin & Deanna Fusch Robert Hodas Bonnie & William Gallogly David Goldsmith Jeff & Alison Holland Chris Garoutte John & Pamela Goode David & Hillary Hoppock Susan Hurrell, CPA Jeff & Cecily Kingston Joyce McCaulou Philip & Lynn Garrett Simon L. & Paula Goren Stuart House Grant & Susanne Inman Karen Kistler Charles S. & Joye Lee Joseph Garvey Cathy Goshorn Cara Hoxie Glenn & Joel Jackson Frank Klobas McCoy Darlene & Dennis Gee Dr. & Mrs. Eugene Gott- Roger Hoyer Richard James Chuck & Joanne Kovely, Jr. Bradford & Jennifer Mc- Robert & Pat Gerdsen fried William & Margaret Hughes Arthur P. Jensen Lafayette Tree & Land- Cullough Joan Getsinger Arlene & Alan Gould Susan Hurl Philip Jensen scape Joshua & Laura McDowell Irene Jewell Rodney Lal Pam & David McDowell John Muir/Mt. Diablo Ernest Lam Karen & Patrick McGeer Health Network Lamorinda Sunrise Ro- John & Sandra McGonigle tary Club Bruce & Janette McGurk Lamorinda Weekly Gail McIntyre Mari & Walter Landauer Sharlyn McIntyre Find your Land Home Financial Peirce McKee Chris Laszcz-Davis L.V. & H.M. McKendell passion! Biensien Lee Christopher & Barbara James Lee McLain Visit local Jim & Michelle Leetham Adele Mendelsohn Chris & Marie Legallet Mechanics Bank Orinda non-profits at Jon & Michelle Lehman Mercedes Benz of Walnut Phil and Barbara Leitner Creek the fair in April Cynthia & Ben Leslie-Bole Michael Merchant Boaz Levanda Alan & Kathleen Metheny Steven E. Levy Patricia Meyer Mark A. & Kathleen B. Marty & Rich Lewis Jones Stuart Linn Rod & Sandy Jones Lois Lippincott Thank you Bill & Joey Judge Peter & Tina Locke Dan & Christina Judge Beverly & Ronald Loos for supporting Ben & Barbara Kacyra Joan Lucas John & Jodi Kaelle Jenchyn Luh The Orinda Ernest & Phoebe Kahl James & Linda Luini News Carol Kaiser Bud & Mary Lyons Patricia Kale Janine & Ken Lyons and Lynn Kalmar Cinda & Tomas MacKinnon John & Jo Anne Kaminski Seth & Nancy Madnick Robert & Marjorie Kaplan Ruth & Ivan Majdrakoff Our local Ursula Kaprielian Peter Mankin programs Elizabeth Karplus Stephanie & Douglass Mann Neil & Jane Katsura William & Joyce Mann Jason & Kristin Kaune Pamela & Jeff Manning Anne & Larry Meyers Carole L. Keller Richard & Gloria Marchick Sidney & Barbara Meyers David & Margo Kelly Keith Marks Jean Michell Rosaleen Kelly Mary & Bob Marshall Liv & Bruce Milan Kenmar Properties Fritz & Alma Mast Jim & Connie Miller Janice Kerr Sari-Lois & Mattal-Neft Inga Miller Michael & Elizabeth Ker- Willy Mautner Nancy & Stephen Miller sten Frank & Joan Maxwell Patricia Mills Lois & Timothy Killen Beverly & James McCall [See Supporters page 11] The Orinda News n March 2018 n 11 The Orinda Association t OA from page 10 Steve Salomon Joan Smith Milton & Barbara Vail Kay & Matt Sander Winifred Smith Joseph Vanderliet Jared Miyamoto-Mills Orinda Village Antiques Lynn & Paul Randelman Katherine Sanders Jeffrey Smyly Alan & Jen Varela James & Jane Moffatt Orinda Woman’s Club Anne Randolph Jess Santucci, DDS Lionel & Ann Sorenson Village Associates Donald Monaco Elizabeth O’Shea Bob Ray Laura & Luke Sawczuk Catherine Soso Jeffrey Violet William & Ann Moon Mati & Silvia Otsmaa Caroline Read Robert & Caroline Schmalz Jeffrey & Michele Spitulnik Jacqueline Voigt Jody Morrison Ernestine Ottino Raim & Lily Regelson William & Nathalie Steve & Margene Stahle Ware Designs Kirby & Margaret Moulton Tom & Sandra Ouziel Louis Reginato Schmicker Brian & Anita Waters Charles & Susan Muenchow Lois Owens Rudolph Reich Greg & Wendy Waggener Bill & Marie Waterman Peter & Elizabeth Muller PBC Oakland Inc. Michael Reidenbach Schmidt Check out Lennie & Howard Weiser Terry Murphy & Ellen Hoff- Steve & Pat Paddock Republic Services of Con- Steven & Ana Maria Schnier Greta Westeson nagel Carolyn & Richard Palmer tra Costa County Harvey & Kathleen Scho- the Steve & Meredith Westfall Vicki Nakamura Daniel Palmerlee Barbara & Al Resnick chet Richard Westin Jeff & Anne Nash Paul & Sheri Palubicki Robert & Carol Riddell Dieter & Sue Scholz possibilities Mark & Zaroda Whatley Dorotea Nathan Victor & Anne Parachini Marjorie Rieger Gary Schroeder Donna White Robert Neumann Anne Parr Linda Rigolfi Andrew Schwartz at the Orinda Shirley White Eileen & Michael Nevitt Lou & Sharon Parrague Ed & Teresa Ritelli, Jr. Ralph Schwarz Volunteer Fair Margaret Whitfield David Newacheck Ron & Martha Parriott Pete & Lewis Ritter Steve & Sandy Sciamanna Pam Whitman Jim & Judi Nishimine Richard Pauletich Mary Kate Rittmann Rolland & Isabel Sears on April 21 Jack Wickware Helen Noorthoek Arthur & Susan Paull Mark & Claire Roberts Deborah Sedberry Kate & Rich Wiley Paul D. Nordine Judith Peak Michael T. Robinson Carol Sensendorf Lee Ann Williams Gary Nye & Ann O’Connell Anita Pearson William Robinson Steve & Lisa Sernett Steven & Sally Stanten Howard & Virginia Wil - Ralph & Sue Severson Arthur & Carole Strand liamson Ronald Shallat Greg & Patricia Straughn Margarita Wilmot David Shapiro & Sharon David & Jean Sullivan Don Wilson Wheatley Lupita Sutton Peter & Amelia Wilson Carolyn Sheaff Svensson Auto Body Raymond & Dorothy Wil- Dennis & Nicole Sidlauskas Garth Swenson son Sarah & Lawrence Siegel Anna & Skip Tague Cheryl & Jay Wingo Shauna & Mark Simmonds Karen & Mitchell Tarkoff Bob & Myrna Witt Singelstad Construction Nat & Susan Taylor Tom & Carole Wolfman Inc. RH & KC Thompson Gary Wong Ellis Sjoberg Barbara Tittle Tom & Amy Worth Maryann Skitarelic Tradeline Inc. Gary & Vicky Yancy Joseph & Sally Small Tom & Lynn Trowbridge Peter & Kay Yanev Lurelia Smiley Nancy & Donald Turtle Joe Zablocki Smiley Nail Spa Ted & Lida Urban Carol Lu Zischke Deborah Smith Caroline Utz & Jen Villafane

Sally Hogarty Participants in the 2015 Volunteer Fair, which takes place in April each year. Nye Cynthia & Thomas Pearson Gail Roche & Harlan Van Annette O’Connor Pease Family Fund Wye Mark & Lori Oczkus Michael & Virginia Peiser Rockridge Builders Orinda Academy Carol Penskar Richard Rogan Orinda Chamber of Com- Charlie Petri Steve Rosenzweig merce Bill & Mary Phelon Jack & Barbara Ross Orinda Classic Car Show Eve Phillips Mike & Virginia Ross Orinda Community Foun- Len Phillips Rotary Club of Orinda dation Tom & Liz Piatt Jean & Larry Rowe Orinda Motors, Inc. Edward D. Pike Sonya Ruehl Orinda Optometry Group Cindy & Jonathon Powell Marilyn Runo Orinda Park & Recreation J.M. Pressler Elva Rust Foundation Edward Quinnan Jim & Jane Ryan Orinda Shell Auto Care Stephanie Quinnild Michael & Carol Sabarese Orinda Starlight Village James H. & Margaret C. Bruce & Lynne Royer Players Quirk Saldinger 12 n The Orinda News n March 2018 Visual Arts Gallery: 15th Annual High School Visual Arts Competition

By ELANA O’LOSKEY chosen medium. Approximately 200 entries Staff Writer are expected from high school students in public, private and home high schools. he Lamorinda Arts Council (LAC) fea- Lamorinda art teachers who assisted high Ttures 2D, 3D, photography and digital school students in preparing their entries design artwork by high school students who have earned a big round of applause. At live in or attend public or private schools in the reception, you can meet the students, Orinda, Lafayette or Moraga. The competi- their families, teachers and friends while tion is also open to all students who attend enjoying the colorful and imaginative work the Acalanes Union High School District on display. schools including Acalanes, Campolindo, For over 65 years, LAC has been ig- Las Lomas and Miramonte High Schools, niting and sustaining artistic expression regardless of residence. The Visual Arts and appreciation for all ages throughout Competition (VAC) features $3,000 in cash Lamorinda and especially supporting and awards and merit citations. All artwork is on advocating for arts in the schools. An event display through March 26 at the Art Gallery of this scope necessitates liberal amounts in the Orinda Library. of volunteer work. VAC chair Denise No- ELANA O’LOSKEY A t the 2017 Visual Arts Competition awards ceremony, over 200 teens, their friends, families and The public is invited to attend the re- mura expresses gratitude to fellow LAC teachers applauded as award winners’ names were announced. High school students who live in or ception at the gallery on March 7, from members Lawrence Kohl, president, and attend public or private schools in Lamorinda claimed $3K in prizes and received award certificates. All 7 to 8:30 p.m. where light refreshments many other volunteers. Thanks are also submitted artwork was displayed at the gallery for a month. will be served. The awards ceremony and due to Todd Trimble, director of Orinda announcement of winners begins at 7:45 Parks and Recreation, who coordinates p.m. Students may submit entries for 2D gallery events with Maggie Boscoe, gal- and 3D artwork as well as for photography lery curator. Co-sponsors of the event and digital design. This would include: include Lafayette Partners in Education; 2D – paintings, drawings, printmaking, Moraga Education Foundation; the Educa- mixed media and collage; 3D – sculpture, tional Foundation of Orinda and Ted Urban. ceramics, jewelry, construction; photogra- Thanks to all for pulling together as a phy – black and white, color, film, digital; community to support Lamorinda youth. and digital designs – work produced solely See www.lamorindaarts.org for more on a computer platform which may contain information. photo images. You can visit the gallery during normal The LAC awards cash prizes in each cat- library hours – Monday through Thursday, egory as follows: First Place $300, Second 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 Place $200, Third Place $100, Honorable a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Mention $25, and Best in Show $300. The library is closed from March 2 to 14 Judging is done by professional artists for carpet installation. This does not affect whose criteria are creativity and original- access to the gallery. Call 925-254-2814 for ity; content; and degree of expertise in the more information or visit www.ccclib.org.

OIS Students Get a Taste of High School

Contributed Photo O n Feb. 1, 8th grade Orinda Intermediate Students received an Orinda police escort as they walked to Miramonte High School for a special orientation. Greeted by Miramonte students, the future incoming freshman had tours and visited classes. The Orinda News n March 2018 n 13 Students Lots of Drama at Miramonte

By SALLY HOGARTY Editor

iramonte High School Drama De- Mpartment takes on the angst-filled Heathers, The Musical. The musical follows Veronica, a beauti- ful teenage misfit who hustles her way into the most powerful and ruthless clique at Westerberg High. Before she gets too comfortable atop the high school food chain, Veronica falls for the dangerously handsome new kid, J.D., and finds herself kicked out of the clique. According to J.D., a little pay back is in order. The story line should interest high school students and parents as they navigate the COURTESY OF THE LAMORINDA GIRLS DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY often-difficult teenage years. Cate Combi, Elise Ziem, Charlotte Guillory, Lauren McCulloch, Maddy Chavez, Ashley Holbrook and Holly Brown signed national letters of intent to play While the original musical contained a soccer in college. plethora of rough language and R-rated sex scenes, Miramonte will present the high school version, which keeps the storyline Lamorinda Women Take Part In National Collegiate intact but removes the more provocative dialogue and stage directions. The show Signing Day still manages, however, to focus on the n February, seven members of Lamorin- players who go on to achieve success at fornia State University at Long Beach), important issues of bullying and teenage Ida's U.S. Soccer Development Academy elite levels. Lauren McCulloch (UC Santa Barbara), depression. signed National Letters of Intent to play The players, who achieved high aca- Maddy Chavez (UC Irvine), Ashley Heathers runs March 9, 10 and 16 at 7 soccer at universities around the nation. demic honors as well as proficiency on Holbrook (University of the Redlands) p.m. and March 17 at 4 p.m. Tickets are Their commitments on National Signing the soccer pitch, include Cate Combi and Holly Brown (Sonoma State Univer- available online at www.acalanes.k12. Day add to the Lamorinda Soccer Club's (Chapman University), Elise Ziem (UC sity). ca.us/miramonte. strong record of producing high level Santa Barbara), Charlotte Guillory (Cali- – Sally Hogarty, Editor Third Annual STEM Opens Doors for Girls on March 17, 2018 n experiences to promote the study and ing UC Berkeley, a nutritionist and a psy- plan the conference and train volunteers, as Expanding Your Horizons pursuit of STEM learning. It will feature a chologist. The theme of the presentation is well as monitor and troubleshoot all activi- (EYH) STEM Conference at presentation by a highly successful STEM “Negotiating the Maze: How to Guide Your ties on the day of the conference. professional talking about her background, Daughter through Choosing Her Academic The conference is limited to 200 girls in Saint Mary’s College career path and expertise. Eve Phillips, Electives in High School and College.” A grades six through eight on a first come, By HEIDI MEYER Google Group Product Manager and campus tour and refreshments will also be first served basis. The day runs from 8 a.m. Contributing Writer Orinda City Council Member, will kick included. until 3 p.m. Since the goal of the found- off the conference with an inspirational There are many, many volunteers who ers is to make this conference accessible he third annual AAUW EYH STEM talk. make this conference possible. They in- to everyone, only a small $25 registra- TConference for middle school age girls Students will also benefit from par - clude volunteers from the AAUW-OML tion fee will be charged. Scholarships will take place March 17 at Saint Mary’s ticipating in three hands-on STEM-based branch, alumna from Tech Trek and Sister- are also available. You can also register College in Moraga. The conference cre- workshops led by professionals who serve to-Sister programs, and local high school online at www.expandingyourhorizons. ates educational opportunities for girls as role models. Individual workshops will girls who will provide direct assistance in org/conferences/AAUWSAINTMARYS. in science, technology, engineering and run the gamut as students learn about FBI the workshops. AAUW-OML is very proud AAUW-OML is thankful to their donors mathematics. crime scene technology, building bridges, of its special “Ambassador” program for who make this program affordable for all American Association of University exploring the inside of computers, creating high school girls who have the opportunity girls. They include Saint Mary’s College, Women (AAUW) Orinda-Moraga-Lafay- optical art and understanding the phys- to take on leadership roles in putting on Chevron, Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary Club, ette (OML) [AAUW-OML] is passionate ics of air and space flight among other the conference. Girls from Acalanes, Cam- and many individuals in the Lamorinda about STEM [Science/Technology/Engi- choices. polindo and Miramonte High Schools help community. neering/Math] subjects and the powerful, Participating students will also learn positive impact that they can have on mid- about a plethora of careers in STEM- dle school girls and their futures. In 2015, related fields while interacting on a beau- AAUW-OML established this one-day tiful college campus. High school girls, STEM conference where girls experience many alumnae of the conference, will interactive workshops introduced by wom- also be a resource and inspiration since en working in these fields. In organizing the they will have been trained to serve as program, AAUW-OML formed important ambassadors. partnerships with the School of Science at Parents are invited to join a morning Saint Mary’s College and Expanding Your workshop featuring a keynote speaker, Horizons (EYH). and a panel discussion, including a high This powerful day-long conference school student from Campolindo High introduces middle school girls to many School, a Tech Trek graduate now attend- 14 n The Orinda news n March 2018 stUDents

Mat’s Talk Orinda Troop 237 helps Santa rosa rise from the ashes Miramonte At the Wheel

chelsea Pelchat

t’s a typical afternoon as I’m driving program applications. As a result, students Ihome from school when, all of a sudden, tend to prioritize ambition over health, with the line of cars in front of me seem to brake disastrous effects surfacing immediately in unison. As the vehicles inch forward at a upon taking the wheel. Yet with the new steady five m.p.h., I begin to see pieces of block schedule directing its structure on what once used to be a shiny, brand new, alleviating stress, it’s clear that the school convertible Mercedes scattered along the is working hard to eliminate this factor. side of Moraga Way. The wailing police Others may conclude that accidents are sirens become louder from the distance, as mainly due to distractions caused by cell the two high school drivers stand waiting phone usage: “I know I’m not supposed to, next to their crumpled cars, still in disbelief but sometimes I use my phone to change of what just happened. “I feel like I’ve seen the music selection or look at a text because a crash here every single day this week,” my it seems pretty harmless but in reality, it friend remarks as we drive past the scene. really only takes a split second for it to go Needless to say, Miramonte’s after- all wrong,” my friend admitted the other school traffic appears to confirm the stereo- day. type of reckless teenage driving, as students In spite of it all, it’s easy to blame a contriBUteD Photo rush to their jobs and sports practices, often student’s lack of experience and attention (l-r) Back row: Max Coons, Jackson Painter, Campbell Hoskins, Marcus O’Neill; front row: scouts distracted by their phones and paying little each time we see a young driver on the from santa rosa troop 707. attention to what’s happening on the road Lamorinda roads; but, while we all have around them. Although a few dents and reason to fear the stream of cars that spill n the wake of the devastating North Bay ended up delivering a large truck full of scratches are normal for beginner drivers, in and out of our community’s high school, Ifires, Orinda Troop 237 Boy Scouts, Max camping gear to Santa Rosa that will first the recent spike in car accidents undoubt- we must also remember that driving is an Coons, Campbell Hoskins, Marcus O’Neill be offered to the individual families who edly begs the need to address this issue. One experience that gives teenagers an opportu- and Jackson Painter, wondered how they lost their homes, then everything left will might draw a correlation to sleep depriva- nity to mature and grow as they enter their could help. A call to the Santa Rosa Boy be used toward troop supplies. tion and stress, with second semester bring- adult years. Scouts of America council revealed a Santa Plus, over a 10-day period, the families of ing on the challenge of balancing school Chelsea Pelchat is a junior at Miramote Rosa Troop that had lost all its scouting current and alumni Scouts from Troop 237 work with intensive test prep and summer High School. supplies. Santa Rosa Troop 707 stored its contributed $4,200 in cash and gift cards for supplies in the homes of its Scoutmaster, the Santa Rosa troop. Assistant Scoutmaster and Troop Commit- Troop 237 is thankful to Orinda Troop SCHOOL CALENDAR tee Chairman. Sadly, all three homes – plus 303 and Lafayette Troop 200 who imme- MARCH 20 percent of their troop families’ homes diately pitched in with generous support. 1 Del Rey Elementary School, Spring registration opens. – were lost in the fires. In all, nearly $7,000 plus supplies were 5 Miramonte Boosters Club, 6 p.m. meeting. “Because the supplies were held in donated to Troop 707 and its families. Holden High School, 6 p.m. Information Session. This evening event includes a short private homes, insurance is only covering Troop 707 expressed their gratitude, “These presentation, tour and ample opportunity to ask questions of the staff and students. a small portion. So we decided to help Scouts made it their mission to reach out Del Rey Elementary School, minimum day. Also March 6. replace the Scouting supplies they lost,” and help us soon after the fires struck. We 7 Miramonte High School, 7 p.m., Governing Board Meeting, AUHSD Community explains Max Coons. The Orinda boys are proud to be part of an organization that Room, 1212 Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette. Also March 21. organized a donation drive within Troop is so ready to help their fellow Scouts in 9 Miramonte High School, 7 p.m. Heathers the Musical. Also March 10, 16 and 17 at 237 and the outer community. The troop need.” 4 p.m. See article p. 13. 10 Miramonte High School, 7 a.m. SAT testing. Holden High School, 7 p.m. Fundraiser for Foreign Cinema. 12 Miramonte High School and Del Rey Elementary School, no school. 2018 Poul anderson Writing contest 14 Miramonte High School, 6:30 p.m. Career Night. launches in orinda 16 Orinda Intermediate School, 9 a.m., Parents Club Meeting. 21 Miramonte High School, 9:30 a.m. Parents Club meeting. he Friends of the Orinda Library announce the commencement of 2018’s Poul 23 Miramonte High School, 7 p.m. Performers for Progress. Also March 24. TAnderson Creative Writing Contest, open to all students who reside and/or attend 27 Miramonte High School, 3:30 p.m. Naviance Parent Workshop. Also March 28 and high school in Orinda. 29 at 6:30 p.m. Entry Categories are Science Fiction/Fantasy, Essay/Memoir/Biography, Poetry and 28 Orinda Unified School District, 6 p.m., board meeting, 8 Altarinda Road, Orinda. Short Story. Students may submit one entry in any of the four categories for a total of 30 Orinda Academy, School closed. not more than three entries. Submission deadline is Friday, April 20, at noon. Send calendar items to Jill Gelster at [email protected] Entries are evaluated by a panel of local judges who are involved professionally in reading, writing or publishing. Up to four winners will each be awarded $500 prizes at the close of this school year, underwritten by the Friends of the Orinda Library. The contest is named in honor of the late Poul Anderson, a popular science-fiction writer and Orinda resident, who was a true friend to the community for 40 years. Entries should be submitted to individual school representatives or at the Orinda Library. For additional information go to www.friendsoftheorindalibrary.org or email [email protected]. The Orinda news n March 2018 n 15 BooKs / Writers

Between the Lines the orinda community foundation Grants for 2017

Sweet Memories of Mystery This year’s grants totaled $55,280 including a generous grant from the Ernest and Lola Poll Foundation that is admin- Novels istered by the Orinda Community Foundation. Maria roden, orinda Books Friends of Joaquin Moraga Adobe for J.M. Adobe Restoration Lamorinda Village for Senior Support Programs y mum always read mysteries. I in London’s Scotland Yard; Tana French Lamorinda Adult Respite Ctr. (Poll Trust) for Senior Care & Improvements remember at the age of six, arriving centers hers on The Dublin Murder Squad, M Lamorinda Area Radio Group for System upgrades home from school and finding her reading Cara Black in Paris, and most popular of in the sitting room with two great piles tow- all at the store, Louise Penny’s Quebec Lamorinda Arts Council for Lamorinda Idol ering on either side of the armchair. They based mysteries, are set in the village of Orinda Association for Fourth of July Parade & Celebration were large hardbacks, covered in yellowing, Three Pines. Orinda Garden Club for Downtown Beautification brittle plastic that she would get not from Penny’s protagonist, Chief Superinten- Orinda Community Foundation for Action Day of Community Service the local library, but from Clayton’s, the dent of the Surete de Quebec, Armand Orinda Junior Garden Club for Downtown Hanging Baskets local sweet shop on the corner of the high Gamache, unlike most other fictional chief Orinda Junior Women’s Club for Youth Ink Writing Contest street. The shop was small and dark, and inspectors or detectives, has no addiction, Orinda Parks and Rec. for Teen Movies and Concerts in the Park smelled of tobacco and vanilla and polish. no troubled past, no drink problem or Monteverde Seniors (Poll Trust) for Senior Transportation Support It’s a fish and chips shop now, but back in axe to grind. He is, according to Penny, a Moraga Parks and Rec. for All Access Kids Playground the ‘60s it sold boiled sweets, toffee and fictionalized version of her own husband. Seniors Around Town (Poll Trust) for Senior Rides Program chocolate, together with cigarettes, cigars Readers love him! If you haven’t discov- and tobacco. And, all along the left-hand ered this series yet, you’re in for a treat. wall were beautiful tall wooden book- Penny’s latest in the series, Glass Houses shelves that housed the lending library. will be out in paperback in early May. And homegrown Writers Workshop The counter was straight ahead, and all they love her over the pond too! Early last I was interested in were the rows and rows month, Louise Penny was touring in the By KATHRYN G. MCCARTY of tall glass jars full of lemon bon-bons, UK with another Orinda Books favorite Staff Writer strawberry sherbets, chocolate eclairs mystery author, Ann Cleeves, whose Vera and gobstoppers. Each time we visited, and Shetland series starring Detective Chief ndrea A. Firth and Janine de Bois- Mr. Clayton took a jar down off the shelf, Inspector Vera Stanhope and Inspector Ablanc describe the Diablo Writers’ unscrewed the lid and tipped a few sweets Jimmy Perez respectively, have both been Workshop as “Lamorinda homegrown.” into the palm of my hand. My mum would adapted into hugely popular TV shows in Co-owners Firth and de Boisblanc met buy her weekly supply of Henry Winterman the UK. Rumor has it they are planning a in graduate school at St. Mary’s College, cigars and silently and slowly browse the couple of joint events in the U.S. too. where they both received MFAs in Creative shelves. Mr. Clayton, with his shiny bald Our best-selling mystery of all time (our Writing. Discovering a shared passion for head and neatly trimmed salt-and-pepper figures only go back to when Danny and writing and teaching, they decided to create mustache, often watched her from behind I bought the store in 2014) is by Derek B the workshop. the counter, but one day when my mum was Miller, titled Norwegian by Night. Miller “Janine and I bring fun, quality writing on her own, she said he came out into the has a brand new book coming out this April, classes for adults of all ages to the East shop, grabbed her shoulders and pulled her titled American Day. It will star the same Bay, here — east of the tunnel,” said Firth. close for a kiss. She said she didn’t want to detective Sigrid featured in Norwegian by “Our goal is to inspire writers, beginners go in alone again and insisted I come into Night. Scandinavian mysteries/thrillers and those with some experience, to find contriBUteD Photo Janine de Boisblanc has a passion for writing the shop with her on all future visits. have an atmosphere all of their own. Stieg their voices and to take the stories from and teaching. I don’t remember what titles she read, but Larsson, Jo Nesbo, Jussi Adler Olsen, Hen- their lives and put them on the page. We whenever I’m ordering books in the British ning Mankell and Arnaldur Indridason are keep our classes small to allow room for Library Crime Classics series (reprints of some of our most popular-selling authors expression and lots of individual atten- classic British mysteries from the ‘30s, ‘40s in that genre. tion, and we are open to writers working and ‘50s published by the Poisoned Pen Later this year, there will be an author’s in fiction and nonfiction.” Firth said that Press) I imagine that these must have been name I did not expect to see in the mystery the unique workshop approach provides a amongst them. When I go back home now section. Former President Bill Clinton is supportive environment for writers to share to visit my mum, the piles of books have teaming up with James Patterson for a work and receive useful feedback. gone. She says since my dad died she can’t thriller entitled The President is Missing. Firth said many students sign up for the concentrate to read any more. But her love Watch out for that one on our shelves in four to six week sessions because they’ve of mysteries still survives through our TV June! always wanted to write but don’t know how viewing of Agatha Christie’s Poirot, Mid- When I ask my mum about Mr. Clayton to get started or keep going. “It’s great to somer Murders, Miss Marple, and adapta- and the kiss and her not wanting to go and see them take to the process and come to tions of Ruth Rendell’s stories. borrow books from his store any more, she recognize themselves as writers.” Both Mysteries are huge sellers at Orinda says she can’t remember anything about teachers said they find inspiration in their Books. I think their popularity has a lot to it. I can’t help thinking he would make an students’ writing. do with their series format. As readers we interesting character in the sub-plot of some contriBUteD Photo “What’s most exciting is when students love going back to the same place, visiting mystery one day... Andrea Firth is one of the co-owners of the writ- [See WRITERS page 18] with the same characters, sharing the famil- Orinda Books will be hosting four local ers workshop. iar minutiae and unexpected developments mystery authors on April 21 at 3 p.m.: Janet of these characters’ lives but, at the same Dawson, Wendy Hornsby, Simon Wood and time, having a new crime to solve. Venice Glenda Carroll all have new books out this is the setting for Donna Leon’s mysteries; spring. See our website www.orindabooks. Charles Todd’s are set during the 1920s com for more information. 16 n The Orinda News n March 2018 Local Residents/Classified

Swap ‘til You Drop at St. Stephen’s Del Rey Students Really Clean Up!

wap, shop, socialize and support a Sgreat cause on March 10 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 66 St. Stephens Drive, Orinda. Drop-off and happy hour on March 9 from 6 – 7 p.m. Swap quality wardrobe items, shoes and accessories. Left over items will be donated to Wardrobe for Opportunity. “We will also be donating fancy jewelry, purses, wraps and new or gently used gowns in excel- lent condition to The Princess Project,” says organizers Barbara Corsi and Holly

Henkel. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Last year, the clothing swap donated O rinda Association President Cindy Powell shops clothing to White Pony and Salvation Army at last year’s Swap event. and clothing and cash to Wardrobe for Op- Stephen’s Church where the event was held. portunity, Princess Project and Covenant Call 925-788-7589 for more information. House. They also made a donation to St. –Sally Hogarty STACY CRINKS Del Rey 5th graders Sophie Chinn, Eva Crinks, Lillie LaVelle, Cooper and Dylan Perusse spent Library Usage nearly two hours on Jan. 19 picking up trash surrounding a popular teen hangout – fondly called t from page 1 Library In 2017, the Orinda Library presented “the ridge” or “top of the world” – inside the Orinda Oaks Park. In addition to hundreds of candy and fast food wrappers, cigarette butts and other unsavory items, these intrepid kids picked up the June ballot in order to trigger necessary 455 programs in 2017, with a total of 7,969 roughly 200 cans/bottles, which they recycled. “If the park looks clean, we hope that fewer people funding starting in July. attendees; 199,585 items were checked out; will litter,” said one child. Orinda residents currently pay $39 a year 139,155 people visited the library; visitors in a flat tax passed in 2008 (Measure E). logged into the WiFi 30,755 times and used – about the average cost of one hardcover seniors and everyone in between. My kids, At the Feb. 20 City Council meeting, City the library’s computers 16,032 times and book. The act of borrowing printed books three and seven, love the library, and, as a Councilmembers agreed to not include the library’s two study rooms were used is still by far the most popular activity at busy young family who frequent it on the an inflation cost adjuster and stay with a an average of 158 times per month. In ad- libraries, even compared with using com- weekends, it is a no-brainer that we will flat tax. While the exact amount won’t be dition, Orinda residents visited museums puters: 64 percent of library users ages 16 support a nominal tax increase to maintain decided until the council’s March 6 meet- 540 times using the library’s Discover & Go and older checked out a book in the last 12 weekend hours and to keep the building in ing, a majority of Councilmembers favored passes, saving them over $4,000. During months, compared with 29 percent who good condition.” the lowest increase of $69 per parcel (see Fiscal Year 2016-17, 278 new library cards used a computer at the library in the same At the Jan. 25, 2018, Orinda City Council graphic on page 1). were issued in Orinda with over 350,000 time frame. special meeting, the council accepted a The Friends of the Orinda Library own eBooks checked out countywide. Pew Research Center found that most recent poll by Fiarbank, Maslin, Maulin, the library building and lease it to the city. According to the American Library Americans view public libraries as im- Metz & Associates, which found that the The library is open seven days per week Association, there are more public librar- portant parts of their communities, with a Orinda Library has a 91 percent approval for 60 hours. Contra Costa County pays for ies than Starbucks in the U.S. – a total of majority reporting that libraries have the rating with 68 percent in favor of an ad- 35 of those hours, while the City of Orinda 17,566 including branches. Millennials resources they need and play at least some ditional parcel tax with an adjustment for pays for 25 hours per week, plus building (53 percent of those 18-35 years of age) in role in helping them decide what informa- inflation and 73 percent in favor if no infla- maintenance. The Friends of the Library America are more likely to have visited a tion they can trust. Public libraries, many tion adjustment. raise significant funds for maintaining and public library in the past year than any other Americans say, should offer programs to Dan DeBusschere noted disadvantages increasing the library’s collection of books, adult generation, followed by Gen Xers teach people digital skills and help patrons to the Library Parcel Tax proposal includ- replacing furniture and more. (45 percent of those 36-51 years of age), learn how to use new creative technologies ing the fact that there is no sunset date or Currently, the library needs all new Boomers (43 percent of those 52-70 years like 3-D printers. At the same time, 57 escalator for costs. carpeting, which will be replaced March of age), and Silent Generation (36 percent percent of Americans say libraries should The City Council is currently review- 2-14, necessitating the closure of the li- of those 71-88 years of age) with similar definitely offer more comfortable places for ing the poll results. If they decide to go brary. Previously, significant repairs were proportions of those same age categories reading, working and relaxing. ahead with a special election in June, the made to the library elevator, which needs also using the public library websites. All On a local level, Hillary Murphy says, cost could range from $27,000 to $40,000. regular maintenance. In the next few years, told, 46 % of adults ages 18 and older say “The Orinda Library is a treasure in our November ballot costs usually range from the building will need to be repainted in they used a public library or bookmobile in community – a place to come together and $17,000 to $24,000. many areas. the previous 12 months. Americans check learn, and a source of pride for Orinda. Editor’s Note: For opinions in opposition out an average of eight books a year. They Our beautiful library is a reflection of the to increasing the library parcel tax, see ...classified ads spend $36.96 a year for the public library community serving toddlers, students, Letters to the Editor on Page Four. 2018 Help Wanted Publication Schedule Orinda News classified ads ... Ad representative for The Orinda News. Email Issue Deadline [email protected] for more informa- April 2018 March 8, 2018 Your ad in The Orinda News reaches 9,000 households and businesses in Orinda! tion. May 2018 April 8, 2018 Gardner’s helper. Part-time. Gary, 510-410- 3225. $20/hour. Ad rates are $5 per Get first look at incoming library book dona- line - $10 minimum There are 32 spaces per line. Count each letter, punctuation mark, and space between words. tions. Sort books with Friends on Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – noon. Call OA Volunteer Center 254-0800. Categories Name______Category______Household Service

Total Clean. Serving Lamorinda homes since 1985. • For Sale Address______Number of Lines______Insured and bonded employees. 376-1004. Cars City______Zip______Phone______Email______Pets Musical Instruments Sports Equipment Write your ad in the boxes below with one letter, space or punctuation mark in each box. Cost is Professional Dog Walking and Petsitting. www. Miscellaneous $5 per line: $10 minimum. ThisRuffLife.com. 510-221-9413. • Help Wanted Rentals • Household Services Caregivers Small apt. for semi-retired professional gardener. Good credit. Gary, 510-410-3225 Domestics House-Sitting Services • Instruction Rain Gutter Cleaning. Roof Cleaning, overhanging Music Lessons branches trimmed. Charles (h) 925-254-5533 or Tutors (c) 925-528-9385 Miscellaneous Wanted • Pets • Pet Care I buy 1950’s Furniture. Danish modern, Herman • Rentals Miller, Knoll wanted. 1 item or entire estate! Call • Services Rick at 510-219-9644. Courteous house calls. Enclose your check payable to The Orinda Association and mail to Orinda News, P.O. Box 97, Orinda, • Vacation Rentals/ CA 94563. We reserve the right to reject any ad. Classified ads must be prepaid. Your cancelled check is Unwanted Eye Glasses are collected for Lions Home Exchanges your receipt. Club at the Orinda Association office, 26 Orinda • Wanted Way, Orinda. The Orinda News n March 2018 n 17 Calendar On The Calendar Public Pensions in Forum Spotlight MARCH By BOBBIE DODSON 1 Orinda Books, 10 a.m., Story time with Cathy G. A lively hour of books and fun for 2-4 Staff Writer year-olds and their grown-ups. 276 Village Square, Orinda, [email protected], 925- 254-7606. he Politics of Public Pensions” will Orinda Chamber Mixer, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.. Chevron is holding a mixer to meet the com- “Tbe the subject of Dr. Sarah Anzia’s munity. 11 Orinda Way, Orinda. 925-254-3909. presentation at the First Friday Forum Orinda Books, 6:30 p.m.. Miramonte High School grad and local resident Zak Dychtwald Lecture Series on March 2, 1:30 p.m. in the introduces his book Young China: How the Restless Generation will Change their Country sanctuary at the Lafayette-Orinda Presby- and The World. 276 Village Square, Orinda, [email protected], 925-254-7606. terian Church, 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette. Orinda Theatre Concert Series, 7:30 p.m., performer Amanda McBroom and Michele Dr. Anzia states, “In the last several Brourman, Orinda Theatre. www.lamorindatheatres.com. See article p. 2. years, Californians have heard a lot about East Bay International Jewish Film Festival featuring Sammy Davis Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be the State’s public pension problems. Those Me, 7:30 p.m. Orinda Theatre, www.eastbayjewishfilm.org. problems aren’t confined to California. The 2 First Friday Forum, 1 p.m., Dr. Sarah Anzia will discuss “The Politics of Public Pensions” same issues are affecting state and local Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette. See article pg. this page. governments throughout the country.” 5 Senator Steve Glazer and Assemblymember Catharine Baker will hold a Joint Legislative Anzia then asks a couple pertinent Town Hall, 6:30 p.m., Orinda Library Auditorium, 26 Orinda Way. RSVP to 925-258-1176 follow-up questions: “What exactly are the or online at www.sen.ca.gov/1565/townhall. problems associated with public employee CONTRIBUTED PHOTO 7 Library Art Gallery, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Visual Arts Competition reception and awards ceremony pensions? How and why did these problems Dr. Sarah Anzia is First Friday Forums’s March for Lamorinda high school student artists. Light refreshments served. See article p. 12. come about and what are the likely conse- speaker. 10 Barb & Holly’s 8th Annual Clothes Swap, 10 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 66 quences for state and local governments, for terest groups, political parties and public Sainte Stephens Dr. Orinda, 925-788-7589. See article p. 16. government employees, and for the citizens policy. Her book, Timing and Turnout: St. Mary’s College Guild, 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. St. Patrick’s Day Dinner and Auction, St. of California?” How Off-Cycle Elections Favor Orga- Mary’s College, 1928 St. Mary’s Road, Moraga, Corned beef dinner, Irish step dancers, She continues, “This talk will focus on nized Groups, examines how the timing Irish band and great auction items. Proceeds benefit student scholarships. Tickets are $50. the ‘politics’ behind the nation’s pension of elections can be manipulated to affect Send checks payable to SMC Guild to Shirley Bohuslav, 782 Augusta Dr., Moraga, 94556. problems. Specifically, it will zero in on both voter turnout and the composition of Call 925-284-7750. the politics behind how public pensions the electorate, which, in turn, affects elec- Cal Shakes, 6 p.m., Guiding Star and Luminary Awards to honor Playwright Marcus Gardley benefits have been expanded, the political tion outcomes and public policy. She also and four luminaries: James Carpenter, Tristan Cunningham, Tatiana Chaterji, and John Muir considerations of those who are charged studies the role of government employees Health. Claremont Club & Spa, Berkeley. 510-899-4907s. See article p. 7. with fully funding those benefits, and and public-sector unions in elections and 13 Orinda Books, 11:30 a.m., Chef Charles Vollmar of Epicurean Exchange takes us to Paris the political factors that shape how local policy making in the U.S. In addition, she with his luncheon/cooking demonstration. Limited seating, $35 includes luncheon and 10 government across the country responds has written about the politics of public percent off any cookbook in store. Register at 925-254-7606 or email info@orindabooks. to their rising pension costs.” pensions, women in politics, the historical com. Sarah Anzia is a political scientist who development of electoral institutions and 17 McDonnell Nursery, 10 a.m., Sustainable Gardening and Low-Water Plants workshop. 196 studies American politics with a focus on the power of political party leaders in state Moraga Way, Orinda, 925-254-3713 for reservations. state and local government, elections, in- [See Forum page 18] Orinda Books, 3 p.m., Jill Kolongowski presents her debut book Life Lessons Harry Potter Taught Me. 276 Village Square, Orinda, [email protected], 925-254-7606. Lamorinda Nature Walk and Bird Watching for seniors. Wednesdays, 9 to 11 a.m., free. Call 18 Lamorinda Arts Council Third Annual ShortDocs Film Fest deadline for submissions. See 925-254-2445 for weekly meeting place. www.lamorindaarts.org to enter or for info and resources; article on p. 7. Lamorinda Sirs for retired men. Second Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Holy Trinity Cultural Orinda Books, 1 p.m., Richard Schwartz will discuss his biography, The Man Who Lit Lady Center, 1700 School St., Moraga, Pete Giers, 925-254-4667. Liberty, M.B. Curtis – a fascinating and illuminating true story. 276 Village Square, Orinda, Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary. Every Friday, 7 a.m., Lafayette Park Hotel, 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd., [email protected], 925-254-7606. Lafayette, www.lamorindasunrise.com or 925-283-8288. 20 World Affairs Book Group 3 p.m. will discuss Thank You For Being Late: An Optimist’s Lamorinda Toastmasters. Every Tuesday, 7:30 p.m., Temple Isaiah, 945 Risa Road, Lafayette, Guide To Thriving in the Age of Accelerations, by Thomas L. Friedman. The discussion http://lamorinda.toastmastersclubs.org. will be lead by Joe Patti. 276 Village Square, Orinda, 925-254-7606. Montelindo Garden Club. Third Friday, 9 a.m., Sept. through May, St. Stephen’s Episcopal 25 Dose of Awareness 5K Walk/Health Expo, 1 - 3:30 p.m. Heather Farm Park, 301 N. San Church, 66 St. Stephen’s Drive, www.montelindogarden.com. March 16 a free presenta- Carlos Dr., Walnut Creek, See article p. 8. tion “Big Ideas for Designing Your Small Back Yard” with Susan Morrison, a nationally- Orinda Books, 2 p.m., Middle School Book Club moderated by Susan Reckers will read recognized landscape designer and author of Less Is More in the Garden. The presentation and discuss The Secret Hum of a Daisy by Tracy Holczer. All middle schoolers are invited focuses on creating unique small-space gardens. 925-284-8193. to purchase the book (10% discount), and join the discussion. 276 Village Square, Orinda, Orinda Association. Second Monday, 7 p.m., Orinda Library, May Room, 925-254-0800. [email protected], 925-254-7606. Orinda Garden Club, 315 Camino Sobrante, Orinda 925-257-0668 or going to www.eventbrite. 31 Easter Egg Hunt, 11 a.m., Orinda Community Center Park. Sponsored by Orinda Rotary. com. 925-254-2445. Orinda Hiking Club. Every weekend and first Wednesday, www.orindahiking.org or Ian at 925-254-1465. AT THE LIBRARY Orinda Historical Society. Call 925-254-1353 for times and location of meetings. All events are free unless otherwise specified. For more information, call 254-2184 or visit Orinda Job’s Daughters. First and third Monday, 7 p.m., 9 Altarinda Road, 925-283-7176. www.ccclib.org/locations/Orinda.html. The library will be closed on March 2 -14 for carpet Orinda Junior Women’s Club community service group. First Tuesday, September through replacement. June, 7 p.m., www.orindajuniors.org. 1 ESL Conversation Circle, 1 to 3 p.m. For adults, practice and improve English conversa- Orinda Masonic Lodge #122 F&AM. First Thursday every month, except holidays, at 9 Al- tion skills in a small, informal group, Registration not required. Also March 15, 22 and 29. tarinda Road, Orinda Masonic Center, Orinda. Family Dinner at 6:30 p.m., meeting at 8 16 Mystery Book Club, 3-4:30 p.m. Join the Orinda Mystery Book Club to uncover and p.m., 925-254-5211, www.orindalodge.org. discuss the new mystery book of the month. Meetings every third Friday of the month. This Orinda Rotary. Every Wednesday, noon, Orinda Community Center, 28 Orinda Way, 925-254- month’s selection is Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz. 2222, www.orindarotary.org. March 7 - “State of the City” luncheon featuring Mayor Amy Orinda Library TAG Meeting, 4 p.m., Monthly meeting of the Orinda Library Teen Ad- Worth, who will provide an update on all of the latest projects and issues facing Orinda. visory Group. Service awards will also be presented to outstanding Rotarians and Chamber of Commerce 20 Orinda Library Writers Group, 6:30 p.m. Meet with a friendly group of beginning writers members. March 24 - Outing on the USS Hornet, including a presentation by Admiral Mike in a supportive environment to motivate, critique and inspire one another. Share two pages Baker (USN Ret) on the ever-growing threat of North Korea to our national security. March of your writing (any genre) and get feedback from the group. 28 Jesse Avelar presents “Building a Bridge in Patagonia.” Hear the adventurous story of 22 Contra Costa Tale Spinners, 7:30 p.m., Join this lively group to tell or listen. This is sto- Jesse Avelar, who traveled to the tip of South America to build a bridge across some of the rytelling for adults with a featured teller every month. Garden Room. most treacherous terrain in the world. 23 Teen Coloring Club, 4 p.m. Join the Orinda Library TAG to de-stress, relax and have fun. Orinda/Tábor (Czech Republic) Sister City Foundation. Fourth Thursday, 7 p.m., social, 7:30 The library provides age appropriate coloring books and colored pencils; you provide the p.m., meeting, call 925-254-8260 for location. inspiration and creativity. Free and open to all. Also March 30. Orinda Teen Advisory Council. Second Wednesday, 4 p.m., Community Center, 28 Orinda CLUB MEETINGS Way, email [email protected]. American Association of University Women (AAUW) General meetings third Tues., http:// Orinda Woman’s Club. Second Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. to noon, call Jean Barnhart, 925-254-3881, oml-ca.aauw.net or email Marty Schimbor at [email protected]. See article p. 8. or www.orindawomansclub.org. Diablo Star Chapter #214, Order of the Eastern Star. Second Monday, 7:30 p.m. Orinda Masonic Center, Karen Seaborn, 925-689-0995. CITY/FIRE/MEETING SCHEDULE Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe. Third Monday, 7:30 p.m., Garden Room, Orinda Li- City Council. First and third Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Library Auditorium, www.cityoforinda.org. brary, www.moragaadobe.org. Historic Landmarks Committee. Fourth Tuesday, 3 to 5 p.m., Library Garden Room. Call Friends of the Orinda Creeks. Fourth Wednesday, 8:30 a.m., May Room, Orinda Library, 925-788-7323. Moraga-Orinda Fire District. First and third Wednesday of the month, 7 p.m. Visit 925-253-1997. www.mofd.org/board/meetings; meeting location will be posted on the agenda. Guided Meditation. Wednesdays, 9 a.m. St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 451 Moraga Way, Planning Commission. Second and fourth Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Orinda Library Auditorium, www. Orinda, focuses on health, harmony and wholeness, 925-254-5965. cityoforinda.org. Lamorinda Alcohol Policy Coalition. Third Wednesday, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Orinda City Hall Sarge Littlehale Room, 925-687-8844, ext. 227. Send calendar items to Jill Gelster at [email protected] 18 n The Orinda news n March 2018 seasoneD shoPPer t HOUSING from page 1 Residential Multi-family, and get a Senior Housing Overlay, which indicates a parcel adds Roberts. has been specifically designated for senior OSHF is run by the same board as OSV, housing.” Both OSV and Monteverde Seasoned Shopper and the project is planned for different in- currently have Senior Housing Overlays. Farmers’ Market Returns come levels than OSV -- not very low, but OSHF is working with OCC to determine low to moderate. The goal is that current the best way to deal with the land to make BarBara KoBsar Orinda residents may be able to qualify. the parcel available for development. “I’m aware of a large number of Orinda OCC would prefer not to sell the land residents who’ve been real contributors to and is looking at a long-term lease. “That ime to bring out the shopping bags! shoots are versatile as well. Try them raw the community but, because of mobility or provides two benefits: a reliable income- TThe Orinda Farmers’ Market opens in salads and sandwiches, in a stir fry with similar issues, they’ve had to move out of stream for the church, which they need Saturday, March 31, for a fresh new season, a little olive oil and minced garlic or tossed town because they can’t find housing that’s and would very much appreciate, and we an opening that coincides with the annual into soups and cooked pasta. suitable for their needs,” says Roberts. “I’m wouldn’t have to buy the land,” says Rob- Easter Egg Hunt at the Community Center- Edible pod peas are all on top of the really committed to this because I want to erts. “We’ve run the basic numbers, and we Park. Stroll through the market and enjoy what’s-in-season list at the market. There see our community create opportunities for feel that we can easily pay the lease pay- picking out in-season fruits and vegetables are two types of edible pod peas. One is the long-term residents to stay here and remain ments from the monthly income. Like the and a selection of artisan foods. snow pea, Chinese pea, or sugar pea – all a part of our community rather than having OSV, these units would be all rental units on Highlights of spring include strawber- referring to a flat, tender three to four inch to move out.” one-year leases.” At the end of 2016, OSV ries and asparagus and an array of tender pod with tiny flat peas inside. OSHF has a land use attorney and an en- refinanced the existing facility to lower greens. Arugula is also a favorite with its The other type of edible pod pea is the gineering group that has done a preliminary the interest rate by over two-percent and peppery bite to kick up a plate of milder sugar snap pea – a cross between green study. The proposed project of 35 to 40 pulled out in excess of $14 million. “We salad greens or to use in pasta sauces. peas and snow peas. It combines the best units is much smaller than the current OSV have the funds available for the project,” Cilantro is available year-round, but qualities of each with the crisp, tender juicy which is a 150-unit complex. Roberts says, says Roberts. “We’d rather use as much of the early months of the year are the best pod and plump, round, buttery tasting peas. “We are starting discussions with the city, or all those funds for the actual construc- time to savor the flavor of this love- it-or- The flavor improves with a quick two to and we’re also interested in talking with tion rather than buying the land. Obviously, hate- it herb. Similar looking but much three minutes of cooking, whether boiling, neighbors, especially those on Watchwood, the land is many orders of magnitude more more aromatic than its look-alike cousin sautéing, steaming or stir frying. the first street up in Orindawoods. We had a valuable than it was 40 years ago.” parsley, cilantro is prized in the cuisines of Enjoy and see you at the market! meeting with them a couple of weeks ago.” Meetings with Orinda Planning Direc- Mexico, China, India and Thailand. Burri- The Orinda market is open every Satur- Other neighbors that OSHF wants to tor Drummond Buckley resulted in many tos and salsas aren’t the same without their day from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Orinda Way in connect with are on La Plaza , which is helpful suggestions. “We’ve had some dis- cilantro! front of the Community Park and Rite Aid. immediately north of the church property. cussions with Drummond about our hous- Now is the time to scout the market for For more information, visit the website at bunches of fresh pea shoots. Their soft www.cccfm.org where you can also sign leaves, curly tendrils and watery stems offer up for market specials sent right to your all the fabulous flavor of spring peas. Pea phone: Market Hotline 925-431-8361.

In addition to running the workshop, t WRITERS from page 15 Firth is a journalist and essayist. De engage with their writing on an emotional Boisblanc is writing a memoir, works as level. Whether they’re writing nonfiction a bookseller at Orinda Books and teaches or fiction, it’s inspiring to witness their three writing classes. voices emerge as they write from a place of Because she must balance her other authenticity and become stronger storytell- jobs, Firth sometimes finds it difficult to ers,” said de Boisblanc. find uninterrupted time to write, so she The classes are held at a writing studio in carries a notebook to capture ideas to use Moraga and at Orinda Books. The instruc- later. DaViD DierKs the proposed site of a new senior housing project near the orinda community church. tors credit the store’s owner Maria Roden (a “I try to take my own advice and write fellow St. Mary’s grad) with being a great in the pauses of the day – sometimes a Roberts says, “To facilitate those discus- ing element and some of the new things supporter of the workshop. “We are fortu- sentence or two a day can generate plenty sions with the city and with neighbors, that came out of Sacramento in terms of nate to have such a wonderful independent of work,” said de Boisblanc. we’ve hired John Wyro, a long-term Orinda encouraging cities to look at multi-family bookstore available to us and our students,” The pair are quite busy as they prepare resident. He has decades of experience in projects, especially in areas that are close said Firth. “There’s good synergy between to celebrate the first anniversary of the the field and is the 2016 Orinda Citizen to commercial areas and transit,” says our businesses.” workshop. Still, each of them makes the of the Year.” OSHF wants to be aware of Roberts. “Another reason this makes so time to write. neighbors’ concerns. “We want to address much sense is that it’s right next to the two take advantage of.” For more information, contact www. the concerns, which are primarily aesthetic existing senior housing complexes in town “We’re hoping that the neighbors on diablowriters.org. for the residents of Watchwood since they and just up the street from a fire station.” Watchwood and all Orinda residents will would be looking down on the property,” The response from OCC members has recognize that this will be a great benefit from page 17 notes Roberts. been overwhelmingly positive. “They really not only to the seniors who move into the t FORUM A major hurdle that needs to be over- are in favor of this idea because they feel facility but also to the community in gen- legislatures. Her work has been published come before the project can begin is it does help fulfill their mission, similar eral,” remarks Roberts. “We’re just starting in the American Political Science Review, repartitioning the church property. Roberts to what they did 40 years ago when they here. We’ve got a lot of work to do with the the American Journal of Political Science, explains, “Right now what the church has created OSV,” says Roberts. “Everything city and with neighbors. We’re confident the Journal of Politics, the Quarterly Jour- is one big parcel, and we will need to parti- right now tells us that this makes a lot of this is the right thing to do and the right nal of Political Science, and Studies in tion that and re-zone the upper parcel for sense. It’s an opportunity that we want to time to do it.” American Political Development. She has a Ph.D. in political science from Stanford University and an M.P.P. from the Harris School at the University of Chicago. The lecture will be preceded by refresh- ments served in Fellowship Hall at 1 p.m. For further information call 925-283-8722. The Orinda news n March 2018 n 19 aniMals/talent shoW

Something to Howl About... oWc talent show and awards Animal Tales something about snakes

Jennifer conroy

his month marks the celebration of St. one or the other of these snakes even though TPatrick, Patron Saint of Ireland, and the snake will try to avoid human contact. the Pied Piper of Snakes. Did he or did The quickest way to differentiate between he not drive snakes out of Ireland? Well, the two is that the rattler will have a rattle apparently there never were any actual at the end of its tail and will clearly dem- snakes in Ireland to begin with. Snakes onstrate it if provoked. The king snake has simply never made the journey there in no such “accessory.” the first place—at least not in St. Pat’s Snakes can live for many years, both in sallY hoGartY time. the wild and in captivity if properly housed on feb. 13, the orinda Woman’s club (oWc) presented checks to Pillars of hope, which combats The concept of casting out snakes prob- and cared for, with some species living up human trafficking, and Berkeley hope scholars, which provides support services so that foster youth ably evolved from concepts of evil that to 25 years or more. Anyone considering can attend and graduate from college. in addition to the awards, the oWc event included a talent identified the snake as a real troublemaker a snake as a companion animal should show featuring students from holden high school and from leslie noel’s Peter Pan foundation. for Adam and Eve. Today, of course, there do extensive research that includes plans shown above are (l) holden high school student Kayla Kitchens who dramatized the poem “Why Poetry is Better than People,” and from the Peter Pan foundation high school student Jordyn Foley, are undoubtedly pet snakes living happily, for long-term care. Habitat requirements who belted out her rendition of “skyscraper.” we hope, with their Irish human compan- include heat and safe enclosures and atten- ions. tion to specific feeding habits. Admittedly, Alas, snakes remain sorely misunder- a snake companion is not for everyone, stood and while no short commentary but snakes are clean and, yes, many are may change minds, a few facts might friendly. soften views of snakes. How many times Years ago the San Francisco Zoo had have we heard, “Snakes are slimy?” Let’s a large boa named Julius Squeezers who put that to rest immediately. Snakes are was very sweet and loved nothing better not slimy. In fact, they are quite dry to than literally curling up with a nice warm the touch. When running a finger along a human. She was quite large and one can snake’s body, one can feel the slight ridges only imagine the length of her shed skin of the scales, but I guarantee your finger when she molted, something that snakes will come away dry and not “slimed.” do as they outgrow their skin and also as a And though snakes can swim, once they way to remove any parasites. are out of the water, they dry off in short When reflecting on snakes consider their order. role in medical and mythological symbol- Another snake scare is the belief that ism. The rod of Asclepius depicts one they are always ready to lunge and attack. snake around a staff representing the Greek The truth is that snakes would like nothing demigod of medicine. It is the symbol used better than to avoid you. Many snakes have by the American Medical Association to- natural camouflage that enables them to day. Ancient Greeks believed snakes were blend with the environment. While they sacred and viewed their shedding of skin do not have outer ears, sounds do reach as renewal. their inner ears through vibrations felt on Whatever your view of snakes, they are their skin and through their muscles. They creatures that have endured throughout the also have teeth – typically a set of four top ages, leaving their marks on our human and bottom – and certain venomous snakes history. also have fangs through which venom can be injected. Here in the Bay Area, rattlesnakes are quite common, as is the harmless gopher- snake, and those two are often confused because of their similar markings. It is certainly possible for hikers to encounter 20 n The Orinda news n March 2018 BUsiness BUZZ

Business Buzz Putting a Personal Face on Local Business Valerie hotz

To send items for consideration, email that add to our customers’ personal style Hotz at [email protected]. and are committed to keeping merchandise fresh so our customers find something new Valerie hotZ Rechic 101 Reopens Under New Man- to enjoy each time they visit,” says Brown. sisters Linda Hofmeister and Susan Rossi established their gourmet chocolate company, hofssi agement This boutique has a youthful, energetic vibe chocolates in 2014. Longtime Orinda resident Maureen featuring women’s clothing for the high children. Son Nolan is a freshman at Cal Initially Hofmeister wanted to focus on Brown purchased the unique women’s school set and older. Poly San Luis Obispo and their daughter, caramels. The team soon branched out, clothing consignment and gift shop, Rechic “Our consignors are our partners. We Hannah, is a junior at Miramonte High adding several more exquisite treats to their 101, located at 101 Orinda Way, adjacent offer 40 percent of the sales price for items School. As a sole proprietor, Brown has a repertoire. “Our motto is ‘Conscientious to Baan Thai Restaurant and Penny Lane that sell for under $50 and 50 percent for busy schedule, squeezing in her yoga prac- Consumption.’ To that end we are dedi- Hair Salon. Offering reasonably priced, items that sell for more than $50. Our con- tice and walks with the family dog Charlie cated to sourcing as many organic, local gently-used, trendy, in-season brand cloth- signment partners may call to schedule an whenever possible. She is a co-founder of and sustainable ingredients as practicable, ing, shoes, accessories and jewelry, Brown appointment or drop by during business the Intuitive Writing Project and a member as well as using as much sustainable and also stocks an assortment of gift items for hours,” adds Brown. of the Board of Directors. compostable packaging as possible,” ex- birthdays, graduations, holidays, thank you With spring on the horizon, Rechic 101 is Rechic 101 is open Tuesday through plains Rossi. and hostess gifts. taking spring merchandise on consignment Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from While you may run into a Hofssi Choco- “We believe clothing can be fun, well at this time. You will want to check out the 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon lates “Pop-Up” stand when making your made and affordable all at the same time. special occasion section that is devoted to to 4 p.m. For more information, call 925- rounds, they also provide catering services To that end, we work to offer special pieces prom and senior ball dresses. 317-3735. and specialize in corporate gifts and events. Gift merchandise offerings feature per- These fresh, delectable chocolates are made sonal items such as jewelry, bath and body, Divinely Distinctive Hofssi Chocolates even more tantalizing by the attractive journals and stationery. Home and garden Your local handmade gourmet choco- packaging in shiny blue and silver foil, décor items including candles, kitchenware, late company, Hofssi Chocolates, brings rendering them elegant and tasty hostess plants, pots and terrariums are available the freshest delectable chocolates right gifts. Check the website, www.Hofssi.com, here. Rechic 101 offers customers compli- to your door. This dynamic sister team of for event and corporate gift details. mentary giftwrap, so you leave the boutique Susan Rossi and Linda Hofmeister founded Rossi and Hofmeister grew up in Moun- with your gifts ready to be given. their small business in Moraga in 2014. tain View and both live in Moraga with their As a locally owned small business, Re- Their chocolates are also available at local families. Hofmeister’s husband, Andrew, is chich 101 plans to partner with other local businesses including Orinda Books and in the Chief Executive Officer of a medical businesses to offer creative events to the Lafayette at Diablo Foods and Clocks, Etc., technology company and Rossi’s husband, community such as knitting and flower ar- as well as Across the Way in Moraga. John, is an emergency room physician at ranging classes. Drop by soon and check in “We obtained a Cottage Food license Kaiser Permanente Hospital in Walnut with Brown to get more details on upcom- from Contra Costa County with a mis- Creek. Each has three children. “Our teen- Valerie hotZ Maureen Brown is the new owner of rechic ing store events. sion to create gourmet chocolates. Our age daughters invented the name of our 101, a consignment boutique featuring women’s Brown and her husband Tris moved chocolate tastes more vibrant because it company by combining our surnames, clothing. to Orinda in 1999. The couple has two is so supremely fresh. Flavors diminish along with integrating two blue birds of over time, including nut flavors,” says happiness into the logo,” points out Rossi. Hofmeister. Both Rossi and Hofmeister Mark your calendar to attend the March are Certified Chocolatiers, receiving their 17 community festival, LaGAELrinda official certification from Ecole Chocolate, Day at Saint Mary’s College. The festival a prestigious teaching institution in San runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and you will Francisco focusing on gourmet chocolate find a mouth-watering selection of Hofssi production. Chocolates. “We are not doing what you would call Contact them directly to be added to exotic, but more traditional flavors, that their event notification list and for more include Chocolate Covered Almonds, Mint information about specialty made-to- Meltaways, Peanut Butter Cups, Almond order chocolates at hofssichocolates@ Toffee, Cardamom Ginger Cashews and gmail.com You may visit their Facebook Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Squares,” she page and view videos featuring how they adds. “Coffee Bar is a 70 percent dark make their delicious gourmet chocolates chocolate with a touch of ground coffee at www.Facebook://Hofssi Chocolates. bean. We use only locally sourced organic For more information, visit the website at Guittard and El Rey chocolate, which is a www.HOFSSI.com or call Susan Rossi at Fair Trade chocolate from Venezuela.” 925-997-2997.