VOLUME XLVII, NUMBER 47 Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Housing Plan Could Change Face of Pleasanton

Pleasanton has begun an Judge Frank Roesch ruled that addition, the city will need to is an understanding of what the of special housing needs includ- update of its housing element. the City of Pleasanton’s housing accommodate the units it did not housing element update is about. ing special populations such as Some of the provisions to be in- cap violates state law, because it zone for during the last update, We are talking about provisions the homeless, elderly, disabled, cluded are the result of a lawsuit limited the city’s ability to meet around 521 units for a total of that will change the face of Pleas- and large families. For example, settlement with Urban Habitat. its regional housing numbers. 3,798. anton with high density housing. the city would have to designate The settlement requires that The court ordered the city to A task force has been estab- There need to be neighborhood zoning districts where year-round there be areas zoned for low in- complete re-zoning that is re- lished to prepare the new housing meetings to make sure that what emergency shelters for the home- come housing at a minimum of quired by state law so that it can element. Under the lawsuit settle- we are doing is very visible.” less could be located. 30 units to the acre. The city must meet its share of the region’s ment, a draft housing element Director of Development New climate laws will also also develop a nondiscrimination affordable housing. The Court’s must be submitted to the state by Brian Dolan told the council the come into play in the new hous- Find Out What's policy and program with regard ruling did not affect the City’s August 16, 2011. most substantial task facing the ing element. Dolan explained that Happening to housing. urban growth boundary. Councilmember Matt Sul- task force is designating sites for where housing is located could The lawsuit filed by Urban In the current planning pe- livan commented, “The task potential development. He added impact greenhouse gas input in Check out the Habitat challenged the city’s riod, which lasts through 2014, force has its work cut out for it. that in addition to the lawsuit the city. second section housing cap. In March of this Pleasanton has been assigned a It is important to reach out to the settlement, there are new state Dolan added that the trend on Section II is filled with infor- year, Alameda Superior Court regional share of 3277 units. In community and make sure there requirements such as an analysis (See HOUSING, page 4) mation about arts, entertainment and special events. There are education stories, a variety of features, and the arts and enter- tainment and bulletin board list Council Hears Concerns Residents About Plans Invited to For Downtown 'Stuff a Bus' Much of Monday’s Livermore The Livermore Amador Val- City Council was devoted to the ley Transit Authority (LAVTA), citizens forum. The topics of operator of the Wheels bus focus included the downtown system, will hold its 1st Annual BART station and the 2000 seat “Stuff the Bus” Holiday Food regional theater. Drive in cooperation with the Speakers provided reasons for Tri-Valley Haven Food Pantry and against both projects. and Open Heart Kitchen to ben- The BART Board of Directors efit families in need this holiday has selected the downtown sta- season tion along with a Vasco Road sta- The “Stuff the Bus” event tion as the preferred alternative to will take place on Saturday, extend BART to Livermore. December 4, 2010 at the Lucky The city council is in the Supermarket located at 2000 process of reviewing the financ- Portola Avenue, Livermore from ing plan for the regional theater, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. which would be built and oper- “One of the effects of the ated by the Livermore Valley Per- challenging economy has been forming Arts Center (LVPAC). the dramatic increase in the LVPAC has proposed use of number of people who rely on the the general fund as surety for its services of local area food banks. financing obtained. The council To help our Tri-Valley neighbors has asked for information on in need during this holiday sea- the risk to the general fund and son, I encourage the public to protections for it. come out and ‘stuff the bus’ with The financing does not look non-perishable food items and to the general fund as the source cash donations,” said Alameda of debt service. The redevelop- County Supervisor Scott Hag- ment agency (RDA) would be gerty, chair of LAVTA’s Board the source of funding from the city. It is estimated that the RDA of Directors. Photo - Doug Jorgensen Wheels bus drivers, who vol- would have enough money to pay unteer their time to this event, Cottage Preschool held a Thanksgiving Feast last Thursday. The preschoolers, ages 2-5 years, prepared stuffing, turkey, pumpkin the debt service and to fulfill its will be on hand along with radio bread, vegetables, applesauce and orange ice to share with their families. They also prepared all the table decorations. In the current obligations and projected station 101.7 KKIQ to collect photo, the students are entertaining their families with a song. The preschool is located at Trinity Baptist Church in Livermore. costs including a new parking non-perishable food donations, garage. LVPAC revenues are distribute prizes, and help spread more than double the amount holiday cheer. Every “Stuff the needed to meet their share of Bus” attendee may also register debt service. to win a $50 Lucky Supermarket At the outset, LVPAC has gift card and receive a special Zone 7 Will Review Agricultural Water Contracts $10.5 million on hand to meet discount coupon from Mountain its obligations. It is anticipated By Ron McNicoll meeting Nov. 17, will go to the ever, the staff attorney left. Now contract drafts. The staff expects the amount will grow to $60 mil- Mike’s Pizza in Livermore. Zone 7 Water Agency direc- end of 2011. That will allow staff to need one year to research the For a Wheels schedule and that a firm with water law experi- lion in 2043 when the financing tors approved a one-year ex- enough time to research current ence is in place with the agency, contracts and come up with a concludes. bus stop locations call Wheels tension for 40 untreated water contracts, and come up with com- draft for board approval. Customer Service at (925) 455- the task will be finished. The regional theater is con- contracts, most of them in rural mon language for all contracts, so Staff will meet with both Zone 7 assistant general man- sidered to be a catalyst project 7500 or visit us online at www. Livermore. they are all consistent. ager Kurt Arends told the Inde- wheelsbus.com. large and small landowners who for the downtown. It is projected The extension, approved The agency several years ago have contracts, to ensure clear pendent that the task is a little to bring in a new hotel, shops, unanimously by the board at its wanted to accomplish that. How- communication about the future (See ZONE 7, page 10) (See DOWNTOWN, page 4) Pleasanton Police Report Mountain Lion Activity LARPD Grants Trial Period On Nov. 23, Pleasanton police officers responded to an area on For Off-Leash Dog Training Busch Road at the eastern edge of the city, where a deer carcass was The Livermore Area Recre- drafting rules that will be printed located. Based upon the evidence ation and Park District board of on signs in the Meadow. at the scene, it was determined directors approved a six-month Director Steve Goodman that a mountain lion killed the trial for off-leash dog training in commented, “We have to try to deer. There were no witnesses to one of its parks. see if it works. Hopefully, it will the attack. However, there have The off-leash site will be in work and this won’t be a pilot been previous sightings of moun- an area known as the Meadow, program.” tain lions reported in the general a grassy part of Robertson Park Director Beth Wilson, who region between Mohr Avenue and about 3.5 acres in size located had been hesitant to approve the open space behind the City of between the field house and the the pilot program, stated, “I had Pleasanton Operations Service arroyo. District staff will post some reservations about off-leash Center at 3333 Busch Road. signs notifying the public of the dogs. The dog owners have given There have been no reported pilot program’s guidelines. us some good reasons to try it.” attacks on people or pets thus The Meadow has been used by The trial period will run far, according to the Pleasanton Police Department. dog trainers in the past. However, through May 31. The Board will (See LION, page 9) recently, the district began en- then evaluate feedback from the forcing its rule that dogs be kept public and decide whether to on-leash except in specifically make the area off-leash perma- designated areas. nently. Members of the Livermore The board also said good-bye Pet Alliance had requested an to two of the directors. Scott Photo - Doug Jorgensen opportunity to demonstrate that it Kamena and David Furst did not The Foothill High School girls varsity volleyball team celebrated the win over the San Ramon was safe to train off-leash when a seek re-election in November. Wolves in the NCS championship game. Foothill came away with wins of 25-21, 25-14, 20-25, 25-22 dog is under voice control. They They will be replaced on the to take the 2010 NCS championship. Caitlin Dewitt led the way, recording 26 kills. Foothill now worked with the park district in (See OFF-LEASH, page 8) boost a 34-4 overall record. They played in Menlo-Atherton Bears on Tuesday in the first round of the CIF State Girls Volleyball Chpionships, Northern California Division.

Pet of the Week Inside November is Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month. Do you have a place in your home and heart for one of our homeless, senior pets? Nobody wants Art & Entertainment...... Section II Roundup...... 3 to spend the holidays alone, especially the senior citizens of Kitty City. Tootsie was surrendered to us in January of 2010 and is still Bulletin Board...... Section II Short Notes...... 9 searching for her forever home. Tootsie is around ten years old and Classifieds...... 10 Sports...... 6 is very lonely here in her kennel. We also have Cupid, a ten year old declawed Siamese. To learn more about how heart-warming it is to Photo - Doug Jorgensen Editorial...... 4 Obituaries...... 9 adopt an older animal, call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www. One recent rain shower ended Mailbox...... 4 valleyhumane.org. Valley Humane Society is located at 3670 Nevada with a rainbow lighting up the Street in Pleasanton. It is open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM sky. PAGE 2 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Livermore Women Publish Tri-Valley Hiking Book Two Livermore women have idea how vast the opportunities and “Shady for hot days.” published the first book devoted are (for hiking) in this region,” Each park is introduced with exclusively to Tri-Valley hik- Poulsen said. a few paragraphs of overview ing. The parks are listed alphabeti- on topography, views, flora and The book is Tri-Valley Trails: cally in the guide. Some, like Del fauna and sometimes history. Hiking adventures in the greater Valle and Sunol Regional Parks, The overview is followed by Livermore, Amador and San Ra- are familiar names to many who directions, generally to each mon Valleys. Its 185 pages cover live in the region. Others, like park and specifically to each 65 trails of varying lengths and Finley Road and Macedo Ranch, trailhead. levels of difficulty in 10 parks, may be new to all but the most A short summary in bullet ranging from Del Valle to Los experienced hikers. form gives highlights of each Vaqueros, from Sunol to Las Within each park, the easiest trail. For Olive Grove Trail at Trampas. trails are listed first, the hardest Pleasanton Ridge, for example, The publication has been a last. A legend labels trails by the highlights are “valley and labor of love for authors Nancy level of difficulty. Flat trails are canyon views, ridgeline hiking, Rodrigue and Jacky Poulsen. just that, like Sycamore Grove in old olive grove.” The two first met some 12 years Livermore. Easy trails are those A similar summary then gives ago and have hiked together with 100 to 500 feet of elevation approximate details of each hike. many times since then. gain and gradual slopes. Moder- For the same trail, it’s “distance The idea for a book was Ro- ate trails have 500 to 1500 feet 4.8 miles, time 1 ¾ hours, alti- drigue’s. She knew there were of gain and are 4-6 miles long. tude gain 1050 feet.” no trail guides focused solely on Strenuous trails gain 1200 feet The distance is the authors’ Tri-Valley hiking and realized or more and stretch 6-10 miles. best estimate. Altitude gain is Trail book authors Nancy Rodrigue (left) and Jacky Poulsen walk at Del Valle Regional Park in “how much I would have loved They may have steep, sudden the sum of all the hike’s uphill warm sunny weather before the recent rains to have a book like that when I inclines and declines. distances. Hiking time assumes a started.” There are other reasons to leisurely 25 minutes per mile, and necessarily to scale. Rodrigue pastime, and to keep it that way for the season and time of day, The idea grew on them as time choose a trail than the level of ex- the authors suggest that people and Poulsen recommend hikers they recommend commonsense and don’t forget sunscreen and a passed and as they tried new and ertion. The guide also categorizes using the guide recalibrate for get official park maps found at safety precautions. They advise hat with a wide brim. Watch for different trails. They learned hikes by different attractions like their own speed after a couple most trailheads or print out maps carrying a map and compass or changes of weather. more by walking with other “Good spring wildflowers,” of hikes. available online. GPS. Take water and snacks People who carry a map and experienced hikers and discuss- “Good for young children,” The book’s maps are drawn Rodrigue and Poulsen see appropriate for the length of the stay on marked trails are unlikely ing the possibilities. Then, one “Hikes with some local history” by hand as conceptual guides, not hiking as an enjoyable, healthy trail and weather. Dress in layers (See BOOK, page 7) day they were sure. “We had no The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 - PAGE 3 VALLEY ROUNDUP

Alameda County is missing out on an estimated Grant Workshops Slated $107,000,000 in federal benefits per year due to The cities of Dublin, Livermore and Pleasan- underutilization. ton will co-sponsor two application workshops “Leaving these federal funds untapped doesn’t for all fiscal year 2011-12 Livermore Housing just hurt struggling households, it hurts our and Human Services grants, Pleasanton Housing economy, as well,” said Tia Shimada, Nutrition and Human Services and Community grants, and Policy Advocate at CFPA and author of the re- Dublin Community Development Block grants. port. “Every dollar in CalFresh benefits generates The workshops were designed for non-profit $1.79 in economic activity. Alameda County organizations that serve Tri-Valley residents. forgoes as much as $191,000,000 in annual Staff will discuss the application processes and economic activity because of low participation distribute application packets at the workshops. in CalFresh.” Attendance at one of the scheduled workshops The U.S. Department of Agriculture has con- is mandatory in order to apply for City of Liver- sistently ranked California among the states with more funding and is strongly encouraged for the the very worst participation in federal nutrition cities of Dublin and Pleasanton. Both workshops assistance. Less than half of all Californians will be identical in format and content. It is only who are eligible for CalFresh actually participate. necessary to attend one workshop. Advocates have praised recent efforts to increase The first workshop is slated for Tuesday, access to CalFresh, but continue to call for key December 7, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the improvements. Livermore City Council Chambers, 3575 Pa- George Manalo-LeClair, Senior Director of Legislation at CFPA, stated, “Some persistent cific Avenue in Livermore. A second workshop problems remain. We still require more pa- will be held on Wednesday, December 8 from perwork than every other state in the country. 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Pleasanton City Compared to just about every other state in the Council Chambers, 200 Old Bernal Avenue in nation, we still require more trips, by more family Pleasanton. members, to CalFresh offices.” To RSVP for attendance at one of the work- Assembly Member Felipe Fuentes (D-Sylmar) Photo - Doug Jorgensen shops, please contact Sheryl Jenkins at (925) will be introducing legislation to remove this Tri-Valley Robotics teams competed in last Saturday’s FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Qualifying 960-4434, or email [email protected]. excess paperwork and these excessive trips to Tournament in Livermore. In the photo, members of the Flaming Flamingos make adjustments ca.us. the office. Specifically, the legislation would move California to the “simplified reporting” to their robot. Group Appeals Decision rules used in 49 other states and would end Tri-Valley CAREs (Communities Against California’s costly and redundant finger print system, which requires all adult members of A Radioactive Environment), a Livermore, CalFresh households to come into a CalFresh California based community watchdog group, office toprovide a print. filed its notice of appeal of an October 8, 2010 The full “Lost Dollars, Empty Plates” report Newly Renovated Summit United States District Court decision denying the can be found at: http://cfpa.net/LDEP_2010/ group’s challenge to an advanced biolaboratory LDEP_2010_final.pdf located at the Lawrence Livermore National Visitor Center to Open Dec. 4 Laboratory. Tri-Valley CAREs sued in 2008 under the China Has Fastest Computer Renovation of the Mount National Historic Landmark. It nization devoted to providing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The The release of the new Top500 List of the Diablo State Park Summit Visitor is built from fossil-laden sand- interpretive, scientific and educa- group’s lawsuit requested that the District Court world’s most powerful supercomputers puts Center has been completed. To stone quarried in the Park. The tional experiences for visitors to compel the DOE to produce a more thorough Lawrence Livermore and other DOE/NNSA celebrate, the public is invited navigation beacon on top of the national laboratories in the thick of a global high Mount Diablo State Park. MDIA review of the potential environmental impacts to a Grand Re-opening event on Center dates from 1928 when it produces the Park’s publications, of a terrorist attack on research at the facility. performance computing competition. The 36th edition of the Top500 List, the in- December 4, from noon to 4pm. was installed on top of the moun- develops interpretive displays The group also sought a public hearing on the The project includes new ex- tain to assist with the early days safety, security and impacts of the research dustry standard for high performance computing and provides volunteers to the conducted there. (HPC), was released last week at Supercomput- hibits, better access to the visitor of commercial air travel to San Park. The DOE gave LLNL the go-ahead to ge- ing 2010 (SC10) in New Orleans. The Top500 information and sales areas along Francisco. The Summit of Mount netically modify and aerosolize (spray) lethal list appears twice a year in June and at the annual with facility upgrades. “We are Diablo was the starting point for pathogens, such as live anthrax, plague, Q fever supercomputing conference in November. excited to offer this renovation to the first survey of California and and botulism at the controversial bio-facility that China has emerged as a supercomputing our visitors,” said Roland Gae- Nevada in 1851. was the subject of the litigation. The advanced power with HPC systems taking the No. 1 and bert, Park Superintendent. “We The Summit Visitor Center biological agent research facility has a bio-safety No. 3 spots on the list with, respectively, the have added new hands-on exhib- is located at the top of Mount level 3 designation (BSL-3) and is authorized Tianhe-1A and Nebulae machines. its about the history, geology and Diablo in the park. California to store and experiment with up to 50 liters of “The Tiahne-1A is a remarkable technologi- cal achievement and we congratulate China,” flora and fauna of Mount Diablo. State parks supports equal access. deadly pathogens. The inside has been renovated to Prior to arrival, visitors with Scott Yundt, Staff Attorney at Tri-Valley said Dona Crawford, Lab associate director CAREs, said, “The Ninth Circuit gave clear for Computation. “The new Top500 list shows the craftsman style matching the disabilities who need assistance orders to the DOE in 2006 that additional that high performance computing is now truly a era of when the visitor center was should call the park’s office at analysis of the threat of terrorism was needed global enterprise.” built. A unique addition is the use 925.673.2891. for this facility’s environmental review in order Europe’s most powerful system is a Bull of art work that dates from the Mount Diablo State Park was to comply with the standards of the National machine named Tera 100 built for France’s Com- 1940’s park museum.” established in 1921 as one of the Environmental Policy Act. The DOE failed to do missariat a l’Energie Atomique (CEA). Ranked The renovation was funded first state parks in California. so, releasing instead a warmed-over version of No. 6, the system is dedicated to the French by the California Department of Today, the Park’s visitor centers, the same document the Ninth Circuit had deemed equivalent of the U.S. stockpile stewardship pro- Parks and Recreation through trails and interesting historic sites inadequate. This is why Tri-Valley CAREs filed gram. Germany’s JUGENE system BlueGene/P solution ranks ninth. deferred maintenance funds al- host many thousands of visitors a new suit in 2008 and why we are going back located to the park in 2008. In ad- each year. to the Ninth Circuit.” Despite the changes in the Top500 ranking, Marylia Kelley, Executive Director of Tri- DOE/NNSA labs remain well represented. dition to the exhibit renovation, MDIA is a non-profit orga- Valley CAREs, stated, “We have a moral as well DOE/NNSA has 14 systems in the top 50 of the Mount Diablo Interpretive as a legal obligation to move forward to protect the Top500. Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Association (MDIA) raised over the health and environment of Livermore and (ORNL) Cray XT5 Jaguar, dropped from No. $28,000 from individuals and the Bay Area. If a release of virulent pathogens 1 to No. 2 on the list, a Cray XT5-HE system, corporate donors. This funding occurs, whether from an outside terrorist threat, a owned by the University of Tennessee but located added additional new visitor in- malevolent insider or any other reason, thousands at ORNL is ranked No. 8. Lawrence Berkeley formation facilities and visuals. of Livermore Lab workers and community mem- Laboratory’s Cray XE6 Hopper system made its Jim Mitchell, President of bers could be exposed to deadly bioagents.” first appearance on the list at No. 5. The IBM Roadrunner system at Los Alamos MDIA, declared, “We are pleased Lost Dollars, Empty Plates National Laboratory is now seventh on the list to partner with State Parks to California Food Policy Advocates (CFPA) and the joint LANL/Sandia National Laboratory assist with this renovation. The has released “Lost Dollars, Empty Plates: The Cray XE6 Cielo system in New Mexico is ranked Summit Visitor Center hosts Impact of CalFresh Participation on State and No. 10. For the first time in almost a decade, the many thousands of visitors from Local Economies.” CalFresh (formerly known Livermore Lab had no HPC systems in the top 10 all over the world. It is a historic as California’s Food Stamp Program) provides of the new list. LLNL’s BlueGene/L, which held facility in which the Bay Area benefits to eligible, low-income Californians the top ranking for seven lists between 2005 and takes great pride.” who cannot afford enough to eat. The report 2008, is now No. 12. The building that houses the found that while CalFresh utilization has in- However, the Lab is working with IBM to field Mount Diablo Summit Visitors creased rapidly over the course of the recession, Sequoia, a 20-petaFLOP/s system, scheduled for delivery in late 2011. Center was built by the Civil- ian Conservation Corps in the 1940’s. It is recognized as a

Amador Valley to Host Linguis- tics Tourna- ment High school linguistics enthu- siasts are warming up their skills in preparation for a tournament next week in Pleasanton. The tournament is being coor- dinated by Amador Valley High School student Ray Zhou. It will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Dec. 2 in the multipurpose room at Amador Valley, 1155 Santa Rita Rd. Zhou said that the tournament is a competitive event for Pleas- anton students in preparation for the North American Com- putational Linguistics Olympiad (NACLO) in 2011. Linguistics is the study of the science of language. Zhou said in a press release that the linguistics problems used at NACLO and Pleasanton Linguistics Olympiad teach students the diversity and consistency of language, while testing their logic skills and creativity. After the tournament on Dec. 2, there will be an awards cer- emony at 4 p.m. Dec. 9 in the Amador Valley multipurpose room. The tournament will host 16 teams and 64 participants.

PAGE 4 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Review EDITORIALS ‘Mars, Venus’ Author Entertains Audience By Jeff Garberson claimed that everyone over age men by intimate relations with proach for women is to talk. Pro Hoops In the Valley John Gray, author of 17 books 40 has cancer and that the num- a partner who is emotionally Talking encourages the produc- Meet the East Bay Pit Bulls. about couples, relationships and ber one indicator of heart disease close, so as a result, sex drive is tion of the female hormone es- The Pit Bulls are a Valley based pro basketball team health, entertained a Livermore is low testosterone level. diminished, Gray said. By con- trogen, which releases serotonin, owned by Deb Tennenbaum of Pleasanton. Their home audience last week with funny Gray, 59, earned bachelor’s trast, in sex with a new partner, which in turn increases oxytocin court is the Las Positas College gym, where their opener stories about how couples com- and master’s degrees from Ma- sex drive remains strong because levels. took place last week. They play in the American Basketball municate with one another. harishi University as well as a no prolactin is generated. Thus As for men, by the time they He also described how chemi- Ph.D. through a correspondence men are driven chemically away turn 50, their testosterone levels Association (ABA), a global league with some 60 teams in cals determine human behavior course with a California school, from their wives and toward new have dropped by half. Their the U.S., Europe and Asia. The level of play is comparable as well as making some medical Columbia Pacific University, conquests. estrogen levels also rise, which to the baseball minor leagues. Many of the players come claims for which it is difficult to which according to news reports By contrast, women need encourages them to talk more from good college programs. find serious support. was unaccredited and closed in a hormone called oxytocin to – which promotes more estrogen Tennenbaum plans to involve the community in putting He appeared at the Bankhead 1999 by court order. deal with stress and with crises. production. on halftime shows. She wants the Pit Bulls to do a lot in Theater as part of the Rae Dor- He has been criticized by Oxytocin counteracts the effects Gray claimed that research at the way of supporting education. ough public speaker series. some for lack of conventional of the stress hormone cortisol. the National Institutes of Health As in his most famous book, training, but he has also been Oxytocin production is stimu- found that the primary indicator Tickets to the games are an affordable $10 adults, $5 Men are From Mars, Women immensely successful. He has lated by the familiar, not by new of heart disease in men is low youth. We wish the Pit Bulls success, both in the ABA play are from Venus, Gray generated been a sought-after counselor and exciting experiences. For testosterone levels. This is one and in financing the team. We’re thrilled by this addition more than a few nods of recogni- and speaker since the 1992 pub- example, regular touching stimu- of the comments that generated to the Valley’s sports scene. tion – and knowing laughter from lication of Men are From Mars, lates it. Brushing hair is a “major, puzzled looks from the audience, the audience — as he described a best-seller that led to related major stimulus” for oxytocin. So since major contributors to heart stereotypical scenes in which books on couples communica- is seeing a baby in a stroller in the disease are well known. Democrat Who Survived a tired man comes home from tion, nutrition and health that shopping mall. For example, the websites On a day when his Democratic Party went down in flames, work and becomes a couch potato have sold some 50 million copies Absent oxytocin produced in for National Institutes of Health, Congressman Jerry McNerney won narrowly. while his wife stays busy and worldwide. He also developed a such ways, sacrificing yourself Centers for Disease Control and Much more than your average politician, McNerney seeks human companionship and line of nutritional products such for others will do the trick, he the Mayo Clinic list such major interaction. as the 30-day Wellness Solution, told the women in the audience. risk factors as age, family history, has worked hard to maintain a close relationship with his He also produced frowns with versions tailored for women “The only way you can lower smoking, high blood pressure, constituents. He has tried sincerely to fulfill the ideal of when he explained that men’s and men sold via his online store your stress is to do nice things for diabetes and lack of exercise representative government. These efforts no doubt con- and women’s behavior toward at $179.95 each. him (your male mate.)” — but not testosterone levels. tributed to his 2000-vote victory margin. each other and in response to In his talk, Gray lay much An example is to clean the Similarly, there were sur- We congratulate Congressman Jerry McNerney. If he’d stress and crises are fixed by of the responsibility for gender kitchen. The mandate to produce prised looks at his statement that lost the election, the real loser would have been the 11th the simple presence or absence behavioral differences on our more oxytocin is why “your “everybody over 40 has cancer” of such chemicals as dopamine, ability or inability to process do- kitchen is never clean” – why although not everyone will die Congressional District. testosterone and cortisol. pamine, the neurotransmitter, as a woman is driven to clean and from it. Personal experience He left some audience mem- well as other chemicals. He said clean again. “Self-sacrifice gen- aside – surely not everyone in bers shaking their heads when he he started researching the role of erates the need to sacrifice more. the audience had cancer — an dopamine at age 46 when he was You can’t sacrifice enough!” he inquiry to the National Cancer experiencing the tremors of early said. Institute turned up statistics that Parkinson’s disease, thought to Oxytocin used to be sold on contradicted his claim. NCI finds DOWNTOWN be associated with low dopamine the open market in the U.S., he that cancer incidence even among (continued from page one) activity. said. He claimed it was taken off the most vulnerable population, His research led him to con- the market because, following the the elderly aged 75 and above, is restaurants and residential devel- the large theater there struggles that intertwining BART and the clude that there are fundamental high spirits that it produced, the between two and three per hun- opment in the downtown. There continuously, yet it has a much theater is incorrect. There ap- and unchanging differences in drop in mood was dangerous and dred for all cancers combined. would be short and long term job larger area from which to draw pears to be a belief that blocking the ways that men and women associated with increased rates Questionable medical claims creation, $20 million in annual its audience. “We’ve been told the theater would stop BART process the chemicals that govern of murder. aside, Gray continued to charm economic stimulus across the Livermore will draw from the from coming downtown. That is activities. The sex hormones are also his audience when he told stories region, and an enhancement of surrounding area. I am concerned For example, he found, in- involved in determining gen- about couple communications. not the case. Men love feeling that they have the quality of life and education about how people will get to the Nancy Bankhead, long-time sufficient dopamine activity is der-based behavior, according common in boys, who are 10 to Gray. Women become more done something useful, he said. opportunities. The cost of con- theater.” He went on to call a resident, stated, “Everyone said So women need to communicate struction is at the lowest point, times more likely to experience like men in the workplace, and downtown BART station a detri- the Bankhead Theater wouldn’t attention deficit hyperactivity doing unwanted work for money their needs in a way that enables $60.7 million, down $18 million ment to the small town feeling. work. It has. There was always disorder than girls. (Many ex- stimulates the production of the man to feel successful. from the original estimate. There will be negative impacts supposed to be two theaters. perts say the ratio is two or three testosterone in women just as it Even with a simple job like Speakers who were opposed from years of construction and Linked together, they will be to one.) He said that “new and does in men. going to the store for a head of to both projects attempted to link trains running every eight min- cauliflower, he said, his wife great.” different” experiences stimulate Women experience twice as made him feel as if he were mak- them together. Concerns about utes through neighborhoods. Bob Baltzer said that the dopamine activity in males, and much stress in the workplace ing an absolutely vital contribu- the theater mainly related to us- Others expressed similar con- proposed financing is like co- more dopamine means they are as men, he said. However, tes- tion to the night’s dinner. At the ing the general fund to back the cerns about BART. Nancy Mul- signing a note with a business better able to solve problems and tosterone production does not grocery store he received kudos financing of construction of the ligan was among those who said partner with whom you’ve had a deal with crises. lower their stress the way it does from the employees for being theater. Some suggested that now if BART couldn’t remain on the The male drive toward the for men. Women return home in such a good husband. When he prior experience that has worked novel extends to sex, where the evening to see their stress was not the time to proceed with freeway, then she didn’t want the out well. “I believe LVPAC will returned home with the cauli- construction of the theater. men’s sexual appetites are sup- redouble, which they may deal flower, his wife made him feel extension to Livermore. make good on what it has said pressed by the hormone pro- with high levels of activity to like a returning hero. There were objections to Patricia Grimes said the ur- will happen.” lactin. Prolactin is produced in generate oxytocin. BART in the downtown as dis- banization of the downtown Jean King pointed out that the Another stress-reducing ap- ruptive, noisy and having a nega- seems to be based on the regional city’s Commission for the Arts is tive impact on property values. theater. You (the council) want under economic development. It They wanted BART to remain BART to support the theater, is well known that the economy on the freeway. along with blocks of high rise is impacted positively by the LVPAC executive director condos. “I don’t think the the- arts. The Bankhead has been a Len Alexander pointed out that ater will be successful. Our hard stimulus for the downtown. In (Opinions voiced in letters tasting room customers as Tony. Lucas Nelson the theater and BART are not earned money will have to pay the future, the regional theater published in Mailbox are those These two things tell me that Livermore linked. He also commented on for it. If LVPAC can’t find financ- will help to attract high tech of the author and do not neces- people from the Bay Area and, While President Obama demands by some that LVPAC ing, that means its not a viable companies. People who work sarily reflect the opinion of The even more so, people from Liver- is pardoning two turkeys for board raise the money to build the project.” in that industry tend to like the Independent. Letter Policy: The more are coming into the city to Thanksgiving, every one of us theater. Alexander said that the Her point was countered by arts. That will help grow the local Independent will not publish experience theatre. can exercise that same presiden- board has already raised $11.4 Kathy Streeter, a former banker. economy. anonymous letters, nor will it From a business standpoint tial power by choosing a nonvio- million and will have to raise $29 Streeter agreed that using the LVPAC representatives have publish letters without names. this means people are taking their lent Thanksgiving observance. pointed out that most economists million. As for BART, he said general fund is a serious and Abusive letters may be rejected hard earned money and spending It shows our compassion for an that BART will have a modest contentious issue. “Banks are agree that getting out of this deep or edited. Frequent letter writers innocent animal and our concern recession requires job creation it in San Francisco instead of impact on the theater - 5 to 10% just beginning to put their toes in may have publication of their other parts of the Bay Area. This for our family's health. It's a most of attendees might use it. The the water for projects. They are and future investment. The re- letters delayed.) fitting way to give thanks for our gional theater provides both at problem can be fixed and would major impact is for residents of proceeding with financing using be fixed by the realization of the own life, health, and happiness. the lowest cost to date for both Make It Happen The 270 million turkeys killed new Downtown housing who can an abundance of caution.” Pledg- LVPAC dream. A 2,000 seat the- construction and financing. The Joseph Brunicardi in the U.S. each year have nothing use BART to access jobs across ing the general fund money will ater would bring in big Broadway the Bay Area. Alexander pointed give the banks confidence. The theater would provide not only Pleasanton to give thanks for. They breathe an $11 million fee to the City I am a Bay Area actor and I shows and bring people from all toxic fumes in crowded sheds. out that BART would not be com- city needs to base its decision on over the Bay Area to the Liver- pleted until many years after the for credit enhancement, but also wanted to take a minute to send Their beaks and toes are severed. the economic risk versus the cul- would stimulate additional dol- more Valley and surrounding theater is in operation tural, educational and economic you this letter to talk to you about At the slaughterhouse, workers lars for the general fund through the Livermore Valley Performing areas; thus assisting the economy cut their throats, and dump them Shelia Cooper, a former rewards and whether the rewards increased economic activities in our backyard. So I guess what teacher and principal, said she justify moderate risks. Streeter Arts Center (LVPAC) Theater into boiling water, sometimes throughout the downtown. The I am trying to say is if you are not while still conscious. held the arts in a high place in stated the theater will benefit the plans. For the last 9 months I increased shop and restaurant de- already, you must get behind this Consumers, too, pay a heavy her personal value system. She entire community. There is no have been playing Tony in Tony velopment around the Bankhead ‘n’ Tina’s wedding as Part of the project and see what you can do price. Turkey flesh is laced with opposed the “risky” financial better time now to build the the- is an example of such growth. San Francisco cast. Since it is a to make it happen. cholesterol and saturated fats that agreement between the city and ater with historical low interest Mayor Marshall Kamena The Arts are a very important elevate the risk of chronic killer LVPAC. She argued that using rates and construction costs. concluded the segment stating, dinner theatre show I get a lot of time with the audience and I have part of society and as an actor diseases. Labels warn of food the general fund would further Barbara Mitchell said she has “It’s important to hear differing they hold a very special place in poisoning potential. endanger police, fire and library been pleased with the direction opinions. All five of the council- found that a lot of the patrons are in fact from the East Bay. Aside my heart. Thank you so much This Thanksgiving, I won't be services. “LVPAC must raise the the city has taken, until recently. members live here and are happy calling the Poultry Hot Line, or from this I work as Events Coor- for your time. money, not borrow it.” “You should listen to people who when we do things that please wondering how that turkey lived dinator for Concannon Vineyard, John Phillips was concerned do not want city money used for residents. The arts center will be Pardon a Turkey and died. Our Thanksgiving din- that residents were told RDA this theater. We don’t want to back before us.” and have been recognized by ner may include a "tofurky," len- money would be used for the be on the hook for money in the til roast, mashed potatoes, corn theater, not general fund money. future.” stuffing, stuffed squash, chestnut The council should let residents Charley McHenry called him- soup, candied yams, cranberry vote on whether they want the self a theater geek, who is also HOUSING sauce, pumpkin pie, and carrot theater or not. a pragmatist. She urged the (continued from page one) cake. An internet search on vegan Another resident wanted to council to keep BART on 580. the part of the state is to push for rezoned, he added. could change the complexion of Thanksgiving and a visit to my make sure that all of the identified She expressed concern about realistic sites that could actually Councilmember Cindy Mc- the city at some point in time. local supermarket will provide impacts that could be mitigated the regional theater, urging the support development. He noted Govern said she is concerned She reminded the community me more recipes and delicious are mitigated prior to the start council to delay it until a more that one city listed numerous that without the housing cap, that the housing element is about turkey alternatives than I can of the theater. He suggested that solid economic foundation is in second units as a way to meet there could be a greater economic zoning. “The city doesn’t build possibly use. there could be a problem with the place. “The timing is wrong,” its affordable housing number. impact resulting from increased anything. If you want your voice start date planned by LVPAC of she stated. It was not considered a practical development. She wanted to fol- to be heard, you need to attend Military Spending solution. low the economic costs of the the meetings.” Beverly King Dec. 2012. Linda Jeffrey Sailors noted Livermore John Stein suggested that that people feel strongly about Senior Planner Janice Stearn additional units, in such areas The next meeting of the task estimated that the city would as services and infrastructure. force will be held Dec. 1 at 7 Government representatives the council delay any decision the two projects. They don’t want and the media say the reasons regarding the theater until a risk BART in the downtown. They have to rezone approximately She added, when you talk about p.m. at the operations center on 47 acres to meet its assigned homeless shelters, you are talk- Busch Road. for the latest election outcome analysis had been conducted want the council to reconsider is the economy. In all the budget on how the general fund might and be careful gambling with housing numbers. She told the ing about services we will have Dolan added that zoning is council that it is best to provide to fund. not an entitlement. However, if talk, little was said about military be impacted. He also wanted general fund money without first spending, yet military spend- to weigh the risk of changes in more acreage to “give us a little McGovern also wanted to the level of zoned density isn’t conducting a marketing study to more of a cushion.” make sure that open space and ing is more than 50 percent of construction cost by waiting two built on a site zoned, another site determine the potential success Dolan listed some of the sites how people move around (walk- would have to be found to make the budget. We are in two wars, years to build the theater. of the theater. that could be rezoned for hous- ing, bike riding, driving) are up the deficiency. have bases all over the world and Ron Garen, who moved to Sally Dunlop spoke in favor ing. They include land around the taken into account when sites Sullivan said that growth give military aid to others. Yet Livermore from San Jose, said of the regional theater. She said BART stations, other Hacienda are selected. She asked if the management will be critical. It we say we want world peace, a Business Park sites, the surface city could include development will be important to come up with contradiction most of the world parking lot at Stoneridge Shop- guidelines with the 30 units per growth policies that dovetail with recognizes. ping Center, land off of Stan- acre. the housing element. History demonstrates that Publisher: Joan Kinney Seppala ley Blvd., the Bernal property Dolan replied that guidelines Councilmember Jerry Thorne huge armies do not insure peace. Associate Publisher: David T. Lowell If we mean what we say about (INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.) Editor: Janet Armantrout currently zoned for office and could be included. said his concern was that there are commercial, and old quarry land At one point, McGovern com- a number of task forces meeting peace, the first thing to do is reduce military spending, which The Independent is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing Company, 2250 First St., in East Pleasanton that is within mented, “I wish an initiative (Hacienda, Growth Management, Livermore, CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Application to Mail at Periodical Postage Prices Pending at the in turn reduces the size of the Livermore Post Office and additional mailing offices. The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www. the city’s boundaries. These would go on the ballot that allows and the Housing Element). It was independentnews.com to sign up and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The military. Without so may tax dol- Independent, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550. and other sites will be studied local jurisdictions to take control his hope that staff makes sure the by the task force. Land near the of housing elements.” final products of each of the task lars going into military spending, Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700 more money would be available during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212. BART stations has already been Councilmember Cheryl Cook- forces are compatible. Editorial information may be submitted by [email protected]. Kallio said that the rezoning (More MAILBOX, page 10) The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 - PAGE 5 PAGE 6 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010

Photo - Doug Jorgensen A driving rain didn't dampen Granada High School's team effort in a 19 to 13 win over Freedom High in NCS Division I varsity football playoffs. Granada's George Atkinson led the victory with 109 yards on 20 carries. He scored the winning touchdown in double overtime from nine yards out. It was his second six-pointer of the game. Granada will take on College Park this Saturday, Nov. 27 in the next round of the playoffs. Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Granada. In the photo above, Garrett Steward (23) tackles Freedom's running back.

College Park (photo at left) reached the next round of the playoffs with a 21 to 13 win over Foothill High School. Foothill defenders Griffith Gates (45) and Kevin Phicnggsai (55) take aim at the College Park running back. The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 - PAGE 7

Pit Bulls Win; Play Sunday The East Bay Pit Bulls profes- sional basketball team opened its inagural season with a 113 - 107 win over the visiting Mid Valley Titans. The Pit Bulls will play Sun- day, November 28th at 5pm at Las Positas College. They will be hosting the Shiuoka Gymrats from Japan. Las Positas College is located at 3000 Campus Hill Drive in Livermore.

well. Monarchs' Top Players: Kylie Black Pleasanton Ballistic United Soccer Club U9 Elite 2 team captured (offense), Emma Kello (defense), Olivia Turner (all-around); Shooting Stars' Top the Nor Cal State Cup Finals with a 1 to 0 win over the Red Players: Brooke Allen (offense), Mack- Stars. Elite 2 played an aggressive game with no substitutes. enzie Kauffman (defense), Megan Allen (all-around) Top Offensive Players: Bryce Lombardi, Addison Orr, Brendan • • • Photo - Doug Jorgensen O'Sullivan; Top Defensive Players: John Wilner, Cole Bartolo, 1st and 2nd grade Shooting Sharks The Livermore Aquacowboys hosted a swim meet last weekend at Las Positas College. There 24 played a great game against The Lakers Dylan Silva, Preston Sim. Goalie Griffin Myers recorded many - Top players for Shooting Sharks: Camille teams with 532 swimmers on hand for the competition. saves for the shutout. The team is pictured celebrating the Wigginton, Wyatt Nostrand and Indianna Stoneberger. Top players for The Lakers: victory. Shane Waechtler, Alexander Alamillo and Wesley Brinkman. in late January and the season runs through 925-373-5700. Shaffer in the Family Affair League rolled mid May. Teams must be formed by the end a 245 and Van Henson 213. blocked shot ending the day at 75%, sinking of November, so register early to ensure your Senior Bowler Dwayne Childress in the 6 out of 8 for 12 points. Kelly Borden put placement. Register online or find informa- Swim Meet Monday Primetimers League bowled games up 15, dropped in 8 points, brought down 4 Pleasanton Seahawks tion on club programs and costs by visiting The City of Pleasanton’s Dolores Bengt- of 235, 214 and 170 for a 619 series, John The Pleasanton Seahawks swim team www.phantomlacrosse.org. son Aquatic Center will be the host site for a rebounds, a steal and had the only assist in the competed at the PASA Closed Short Course Foscalina 230, John Waite 224 and Dave game. Center, Jessica Elfin added another 5 large swim meet in the coming weeks. Phipps 211. Garry Rodrigue in the Sirs & Invitational on November 13 & 14 turning The Pleasanton Seahawks Swim team points to the scoreboard and had 5 rebounds in new times and cuts. Sirettes League rolled a 223, Norm Taas- and 2 blocked shots. A much more aggressive Baseball Camp will host a three-day swim meet that begins on evigen 222, Dick Greene 217, Jim Harvey Lifetime Best Times (LTB): Cassidy Livermore High Varsity Baseball Coach Friday, December 3, and continues through Brandi Meyer came alive down the stretch Booe, Kevin McLaughlin, Tony Shen and 212, Ron Knott 213, Don Tunison 200 and with a steal, 3 rebounds and putting in an David Perotti is hosting a winter baseball Sunday, December 5. The meet is expected Elise Cox each swam 4/6 LTB camp on December 20-22. Each camper will to draw about 2,000 swimmers and specta- Billy Culbertson 182. Clint McFaddin in the additional 4 points for the Wolfpack. Kirah 100% Lifetime Bests: Anna Winegarner, Donna's Mixers League bowled a 244, Bill VanTrease rounded out the scoring with 4 receive individual instruction from coaches tors who will begin to arrive each morning Ashleigh Anderson, Tim Yao, Rishab Nair, and Livermore High players, a snack each by 7:00 a.m.., with competition beginning Nawrocki 221. Betty Winn 213 and Rose Nel- points, pulled down 4 boards, a blocked shot Audrick Antonio and created a turnover for CCOP. day and a camp shirt. The 5-12 year old at 9:00 a.m. son 203. Otis Farris in the Friday Primetimers New Junior Olympic times: Nja Zuniga camp costs $125 and runs from 9:00-12:00 The city of Pleasanton has been working League rolled a 216, John Foscalina 211, Ron • • • - 200 IM & 100 back; Laurel Heckman - 100 Caitlin Neal SM/SC 6th grade Spartans CYO basket- everyday. If you sign up before December closely with both organizations to develop Knott 200, Gwen Ulibarri 191, Chuck Edeal back; Will Rose - 200 IM, 400 free 15th (post marked), pay only $105. The plans for a both a successful competition 190 and Jim Truscott 177. ball team #604, downed St. Joan of Arc #606 New Far Western Cut: Miranda Heck- Letter of Intent 35-24 in an exciting game Sunday. Frank camp is being held at Livermore High Var- and reduced impact on the neighborhoods Youth Bowler Payton Giambrone in man- 100 back sity Field. For more info to sign up please surrounding the Aquatic Center, located at the Generation Gap League bowled a 279, Caitlin Neal has signed her National Gomez led SM/SC with 14 points, 3 steals, New Pacific Reportable Time: Wolf Letter of Intent to accept a scholarship and and 5 rebounds. Jacob Murdoch added to the contact David Perotti at (925) 586-2811 or 4455 Black Avenue near Santa Rita Road. Eric Smyth 253, Justin Agness 247, Shawn Lachance – 200 IM [email protected] or check website Congested traffic conditions are anticipated play Softball at Fresno State University totals with 13 points, 2 rebounds and 8 steals. New Sectional Cut: Jason Chen – 200 Donohue 238 and Curtis Agness 230. Cody under Head Coach Margie Wright starting PJ Kalcic and Zachariah Eme contributed www.eteamz.com/lvb on Santa Rita Road and Black Avenue each Cakebread in the Family Affair League rolled free; Tony Shen – 200 free morning as the swimmers begin to arrive in the fall of 2011. points and steals and helped round out the Top-10 Age Group Swims: Cate Mac- a 230, 161 and 225 for a 616 series. Caitlin is currently a senior at Foothill tough defense. for the day’s competition. City staff has Gregor - 4 events; Lillian Sun - 5 events developed a traffic flow system for the High School in Pleasanton but spent her last • • • Youth Basketball League The SM/SC 5th grade girls Swoosh team Registration is now open for Lay-Ups - a Aquatic Center to facilitate competitor 3 years at Granada High in Livermore. Caitlin youth basketball program offering leagues for drop-off, and participants have been noti- PGSL Registration is a 3 year varsity letter winner and starting remains undefeated in league play bringing 2011 Registration is now open for home another win, this time over St. Isidore, Livermore Aquacowboys children in kindergarten through 2nd grade. fied of pre-designated parking locations that catcher who has earned EBAL All League all divisions in the Pleasanton Phantom 22-8. Getting banged up at the top of the The Livermore Aquacowboys hosted The 8-week season begins Jan. 22nd, 2011. would reduce the impacts on the surrounding Girls Softball League. All girls living in Awards and has batted over .325 consistently neighborhoods. key, but hanging tough, was Point Guard, last weekends swim meet at Las Positas There are several locations available. Lay- Pleasanton , Dublin and Sunol are eligible during her high school and club ball career. Katie Fournier with 2 steals and creating two College. There were 24 swim teams with Ups is an introductory and non-competitive For more information, please contact Caitlin has been verbally committed to Coach basketball program. All the components of Frances Steuer-Silva at (925) 931-3422. to play. Two ways to register: 1) Online turnovers and not allowing her opponents to 532 swimmers in attendance. Livermore at www.pleasantonsoftball.org; 2) Mail- Wright at Fresno State since her sophomore score against her. Also on the defensive side Aquacowboys had a great meet with many the program are geared toward making each year in high school. was Forward, Emily March, with 2 rebounds, participant feel successful. The players use in: PGSL, P.O. Box 911 , Pleasanton , CA improved times. 94566 (download a registration form from Last summer her club ball team partici- a jump ball and a blocked shot down low New Best Times were achieved by smaller, age-appropriate sized basketballs. Bowling News pated in the first ever ESPN Rise Premier to keep St. Isidore out of shooting range. The hoops are lowered to 8'. The games In the 4 Seasons Heating & Air League our website). Late fee of $25 applied after Gabriel Akins, Nathan Boas, Taylor Bren- 11/30/10. For more information or ques- Girls Fastpitch National Softball Tournament Shooting 67% from the field, Point Guard, nan, Evan Carlo, Tori Carroll, Jenna Chew, are played 4-on-4 so each player has more Alex Holland bowled a 266, 253 and 194 for in Southern California. During that same Nicole Bartels scored 8 points, had a steal, opportunity to touch the ball. The registra- a 713 series that was 149 pins over average. tions, email Christine Tanis at christine.t@ Allie Clark, Nick Coltrin, Taber DaCosta, tion fee is $95, which includes the 8-week pleasantonsoftball.org. summer she batted .407 for the season with created a turnover and drove hard against Alden Dean, Cat Elliott, Megan Fairbanks, The action took place at the Granada Bowl in 29 singles, 5 doubles and 19 RBI’s. Caitlin her opponents to get the ball in the key for season, a Lay-Ups t-shirt, and a Lay-Ups Livermore. In the Practice Kings & Queens teammates to score. Chelsea Warner was 2 Christopher Gonzalez, Christopher Gonza- basketball. Register on-line at www.Lay- PGSL Player Evaluations and Try- is a natural leader on and off the field and is lez, Michael Grant, Haley Hamza, Andrew League Rick Dunn rolled a 198, 207 and 236 for 6 and Katie Gomez was 2 for 8, together Ups.com, or call (503) 799-9293 for further for a 641 series that also was 149 pins over outs: Players in the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, excited to join the team at Fresno State. Hayes, Matthew Hayes, Megan Hill, Jared information. Caitlin chose Fresno State over several adding 8 more points on the board. Steal- average. Chuck Anderson in the Family & 8th grades, please read the following ing the spotlight on defense with 4 steals, 2 Hill, Mia Hocking, Bella Hocking, Katie information carefully: In an effort to continue other division one schools and when asked Kulp, Romane Lagouche, Josh Ledbetter, Nic Affair League rolled a 278 game that was rebounds and 5 blocked shots, Katie Marcel 101 pins over average. Mark McCreary in to improve our players’ experience, PGSL why she chose Fresno she said, “I loved the proved she owned the key and also putting McConn, Desiree McConn, Franco Moufar- Player in Bowl Game girls and their dedication to the team and I the 4 Seasons Heating & Air bowled a 248, will be holding Player Evaluation Sessions up 8 attempts and sinking 6 more points rej, Sofia Moufarrej, Victoria Moufarrej, George Atkinson of Granada High for ALL players in 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th think Coach Wright’s passion for the game School, Livermore, will play in the 2011 290 and a 278 for a 816 series. for the Swoosh. A complete team effort Kylie Neubauer, Daiki Nishikawa, Sophia grades. Attending a player evaluation ses- is amazing.” scored another victory for the Livermore U.S. Army All-American Bowl on Saturday, Austin Stuber in the Generation Gap Piper, Brianna Reynolds, Adrianna Rocha, sion is mandatory for all players. Following She added, “Without her leadership and 5th grade girls. January 8, 2011, at the Alamodome in San League bowled a 200 game. Tim Piper in the Ben Rocha, Rachel Roddy, Morgan Roddy, those evaluations, we will have tryouts for experience on the field the program would • • • Antonio, Texas. The annual East vs. West Getaway Fours League rolled a 288 game, Collin Rodgers, Brendan Schierloh, Sarah our “Black” Divisions. Our goal for these not be as successful. I am very excited to The 5th grade boys SM/SC Infernos match-up will be televised live on NBC at David Pendleton 253, Dale Mellberg 250, Swanson, Shelby Swanson, Jared Tovera, sessions is two-fold: 1) to make sure all play for Fresno they are Top 25 Division 1 defeated the SM/SC Lightning Bolts 37-8. 1:00 p.m. EST. It will feature the nation’s top Aaron Fick 246, Lee Pettus 245, Fortune Trent Trump, Collin Trump, Turner Zischka, players are assigned to the correct level of program and I hope to have the opportunity to The Infernos played a strong game with 90 high school football players. Lapina 235, Bill Deuell 234, John Easley 232, and Tucker Zischka. play for their skill level and experience and bring another NCAA National Championship Brandon Williams and Zac MacDonald as “George is a talented athlete whose ex- Ralph Soto 224, Mark Miranda 204, Mark For more information, please contact us 2) to balance the teams in each age group to Trophy home to Fresno State.” high scorers and Tommy Latkowski with emplary leadership and teamwork qualities Duguid 195 and Amy Alexander 168. Scott good rebounds. The Lightening Bolts played at 925-443-7700, at www.lacswimming.com, the best of our ability to balance competition or find the team on Facebook. have made him a standout at of Granada High Lowe in the Match Point League bowled a a consistent game with Tyler Doyle and and maximize everyone’s enjoyment. For School,” said Col. Derik Crotts, Director of 249 and Sheryl Common 234. Nick Block Edge Gymnastics Joshua Esteva scoring 4 points each while 7th & 8th grade players, we will not have Strategic Communications, Marketing and in the 4 Seasons Heating & Air League Edge Gymnastics team members Joey Stangl and Junior Saulovich collected Player Evaluation Sessions this year, but we Bah Humbug Run/Walk Outreach, U.S. Army Accessions Command. rolled a 253, Lloyd Block 251, Gil Criste completed at the Level 5, Zone 6 Cham- multiple rebounds. The San Ramon Parks & Community will have Black Division Tryouts for those “The strength, dedication, leadership and 248 and Pat Braga 235. Craig Truscott in pionships. In the 11-12 Age Group Sophia • • • Services sponsors annual San Ramon Bah wishing to be considered for that division. Kalliaras placed third in the All-Around. teamwork skills necessary to succeed on the the Practice Kings & Queens League bowled It was an exciting game for the 5BA #56 Humbug 5K Run & Walk, on Saturday, All Player Evaluation Sessions and Black Sarah Fletcher placed third on Vault. football field are the same qualities mirrored a 288, Derek Schaffer 237, Graham Scott SM/SC and #52 St. Isidore boys teams. The December 4. This very flat and fast 5K (3.1 Division Tryouts (all age groups) will be In the 10yr Age Group, Hannah Skepner score remained close until the third quarter in Army Strong Soldiers. We are proud to 233, Jason Barrett 216, Candice Moschetti miles) certified course will follow through held in January 2011. Additional informa- placed first on Vault and Bars. Samantha when St. Isidore took the lead with a score honor all of our U.S. Army All-American 212, Danny Nothwang 208, Mark Kaiser the weekend-quiet and monitored streets of tion and a detailed schedule for all of these Foon placed second on Beam. of 17 to 11. St. Isidore played hard and won Bowl players and congratulate them on and Dennis Sheehan 200. Gene Bruihl in Bishop Ranch Business Park. sessions will be posted on our league web In the 9yr Age Group, Samantha Fred- with a score of 31 to 24. High scorers for their selection.” the Cheyenne League rolled a 288, Gabe The event is for levels of runners and site in late November or early December rickson placed first in the All-Around, Beam the SM/SC team were Trenton Green with Atkinson was selected by the U.S. Army Donohue 258 and Dave DeBus 256. Jeremy walkers, and those who love to dress up in (www.pleasantonsoftball.org). and Floor and second on Vault. Stephanie 6 points, Kaine Montez with 5 points and All-American Bowl Selection Committee, Stuber in the Early Years Fun Time League Lowe placed third in the All-Around and Michael Thaete with 5 points. holiday costume. “Bah Humbug” proceeds bowled a 279 and Frank Danneil 237. Ron first on Bars. Amy Noda placed second in will go directly back into the San Ramon which consists of All American Games’ • • • network of regional directors, Rivals.com the All-Around and first on Beam. Jennifer 4th grade boys basketball SM/SC (#46) Parks & Community Services programs: Dawson placed second on Beam and Floor. Wolverines took on St. Isidore (#42). The Trophies will go to the top male and and Tom Lemming. U.S. Army All-American Skylar Relova placed second on Floor. Wolverines held St. Isidore to just 8 points female finishers, and medals will be awarded players are eligible for the U.S. Army Player In the 8yr Age Group, Michella Diebe- in the final 2 quarters but it wasn't enough three deep in designated age groups for of the Year Award, the Anthony Muñoz Line- now placed second on Vault. to overcome a slow start and 18 point deficit both male and female participants (check man of the Year Award, the Pete Dawkins Edge Gymnastics, Level 5 Team, placed at the end of the first half. Final score: St. Game MVP Award, and the Glenn Davis and BOOK application or Web site for age-groups). (continued from page 2) seventh. Isidore 33, Wolverines 25. Kevin Lee led Costume awards will go be given for the Doc Blanchard U.S. Army Awards. the Wolverines in scoring with 8 points. Nick “Most Grinch-Like,” “Holiday Spirit,” and As a result of George Atkinson being LaRosa had a strong all round game with 5 “Group Theme.” All participants who wear selected to the U.S. Army All-American steals, 2 assists, and 2 points. St. Isidore's Z. Pleasanton Rage holiday garb will receive a special “Bah Bowl, his head coach Tim Silva is invited Pleasanton Rage U13 Orange: Playing Isaac led all scorers with 10 points. to travel to San Antonio and attend the U.S. to get into trouble, but the authors They wrote the book for the • • • Humbug” Tree Ornament. Army Coaches Academy, an elite three-day a physical game in the pouring rain, Pleas- Race-day registration, entrance fee is advise caution on steep parts pleasure of doing it and will be anton Rage U13 Orange continued its streak SM/SC CYO 4th grade boys' team, aka learning experience featuring NFL and of trails. Hikers should watch with a decisive 3 to 0 win against a division Club Penguin, was defeated by St. Joan's, $40 for everyone. Participants will receive NCAA coaches, as well as participate in content to get their expenses rival, Castro Valley United Green. The first 24-9. The first half was especially exciting, the Bah Humbug long-sleeved T-shirt, and game-week activities. for poison oak in many of the back. “We’re not in this to goal was scored by Makenna Elias on an but St. Joan's ultimately pulled ahead. Carson plenty of before and after-race goodies and For more information on the U.S. Army parks. Wild animals are rarely make a lot of money,” Poulsen incoming corner kick. Elias got the assist Griffey, Jake Putnam, and Devon Shah led St. beverages. All-American Bowl and its related events on the next goal scored by Malissa Shadle. Joan's in scoring, while Brendon Patino and Check-in and race day registration opens visit www.usarmyallamericanbowl.com & a problem, but in May and June, says. “The motivation from the Carley Robertson sent the ball into the net for Jacob Pita were defensive stars for the win- at 7:30 a.m., at Bishop Ranch II, Corner www.goarmy.com/events/aab. the book recommends staying on beginning was to spread the word the final score of the game. Keeper Sophia ning team. For Club Penguin, the scoreboard of Camino Ramon & Bollinger Canyon Brown made some key saves and shored up a could not reflect the team's heart, spirit and Rd., in San Ramon (East side of freeway cleared trails and keeping dogs about the great hiking” in the defense that played tough, including impres- determination. Logan Finch, Xavier Pelican, 680)—same location of the races’ start and Fastpitch Try-outs leashed because that’s “when Tri-Valley. sive efforts by Julia Densmore and Hanna and Eric Valdez scored hoops for SM/SC. finish lines. Both, the run and walk will Lady Hustle will be holding try-outs Mallie. Top Offensive Players: Makenna Defensive kudos go to Drew Braudrick and begin at 9:00 a.m. for their 18 Gold, 18A, 16A and two 14A rattlesnakes first come out of “It was such a fun thing to do,” Elias, Malissa Shadle, Carley Robertson; Brandon Harvey, who claimed steals and Online registration is also available on softball teams on December 4th and 5th from hibernation…are blind, or almost Rodrigue says. Top Defensive Players: Julia Densmore, rebounds galore. 9am-2pm. Try-outs will be held at Robertson • • • Active.com. so, and…more aggressive than The book is being sold for Hanna Mallie. For more Bah Humbug 5K Run & Walk Park and Double Diamond Sports Academy SM/SC 408 Gladiators -SM/SC 405 in Livermore. Please go to www.ladyhustle- usual.” $15.99 plus tax at Sunrise Moun- (2-12). SM/SC Gladiators' Cameron McGee information and/or an application, contact fastpitch.com to register and obtain more Livermore Fusion scored the team's only basket. Wyatt Mose- Brad Morris at the San Ramon Parks & information. Any questions, you may call Photos in the book are by tain Sports in Livermore, Towne Livermore Fusion SC's under 12: ley, Jonathan Mulrooney and Nathan Findley Community Services, 925-973-3367. Timing Teresa Borchard 925-785-0846. Barbara Mallon, prize-winning and results of this event will be provided by Center Books in Pleasanton, Tied for second place in Norcal Soccer's all displayed great skill. Joseph Fields scored photographer from Livermore, Gold Region 2-3-4 Fall League, Livermore for SM/SC 405 with Ian Partridge and Grant On Your Mark Events. Rakestraw Books in Danville Fusion SC's under 12 Maroon squad battled Dufeck recovering many rebounds sending Bocce Kits for Rent and the small format and black and the Rodrigue Winery in Santa Rosa United's Tremors in Santa Rosa them to a 2 to 12 win. Following the debut of two new bocce and white printing don’t do her Livermore. It can also be ordered last Saturday. With a win, Livermore Fusion • • • Grizzlies Baseball courts at the freshly renovated Bothwell would have clinched sole possession of sec- SM/SC 4th grade Celtics played St. NorCal Grizzlies Baseball is now holding Park, the Livermore Area Recreation and work justice. Whether there will through the publisher, Lulu Press, ond place. The Tremors scored first in extra Raymond's For the Celtics, highlights were evaluations for positions on the 2011 spring Park District is now making bocce ball kits be a future edition is unclear. online at http://www.lulu.com/, time in the first half despite the good play of Peyton Gibbs 4 points, Riley Parkerson 2 tournament teams - ages 9U through 14U. available for rent to the public. the Fusion defense: keeper Ashley Morton points, Drew Arruda 2 points and amaz- Evaluations take place at the indoor Bocce ball kits can be checked out for a Rodrigue and Poulsen have dis- or from the authors by emailing and backline Jessica Mahabali, Amy Moussa, ing rebounds from Manav Patel, Trevor training facility in Livermore. week at a time from the Robert Livermore cussed the possibility but “there them at the address trivalley- Adriana Sblendorio and Amy Silva. White and Ethan Payne. Final score was St. Teams will compete in 14 tournaments Community Center. The kits are available at Late in the second half, Fusion got the tie Raymond's 28, SM/SC 8. beginning in February and ending in July. the front counter from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. are no plans,” they say almost [email protected] after dominating the play for most of the half. • • • Practices are twice a week during the eve- Monday through Friday. in unison. A strong lead pass from Marissa Pletschette SM/SC boys 3rd grade team (322) the nings. Sessions will be conducted by both Rental for one week is $20, plus a $40 to Ashley Morton lead to a crossing shot that Warriors played St. Joan Arc (325). Scoring individual team coaches and other instructors refundable deposit by credit card or cash – a Selina Cardoza struck off her right foot past were Douglas Wynne 2 points, Quinn Ayres covering all aspects of the game. total of $60. The $40 deposit is refundable if the Tremors' goalie. With the tie, Fusion can 6 points, and Rylan Myhre 2 points. Great For additional information, contact Tom equipment is returned in good condition. Kits secure second place in two weeks with a win defense played by Austin Weinshelbaum and Graham at 922-5050 or tomg@norcalgriz- are rented on a first-come, first-served basis; or tie over the Mill Valley Rockers on the Dylan Breesch. The score at half time was zlies.org or visit www.norcalgrizzlies.org. reservations are not available in advance. Fusion's home field. Warriors 2, St. Joan 7. The boys played a Rental of a bocce ball kit does not guarantee great second half. They came back to a final a bocce ball court will be available. score of Warriors 10 St. Joan 13. Phantom Lacrosse The Robert Livermore Community Cen- CYO Basketball • • • Registration for Spring 2011 lacrosse ter is located at 4444 East Ave., Livermore. The St. Michael's/St. Charles (SM/SC) The SM/SC 1st/2nd grade 2BN4 War- season is now open and teams are forming for Bothwell Park is located at 2466 Eighth 8th grade Wolfpack CYO basketball team riors played the 2BN3 Cobras. It was a fast boys and girls ages 8 to 14. Practices begin St., Livermore. For more information, call remains on top with a solid victory over paced and physical game. Both teams played Catholic Community of Pleasanton (CCOP), with heart and determination. For the War- 33-19. The Wolfpack dominated the boards riors, Deven Aggarwal was strong underneath with 36 total rebounds and created 18 turn- the hoop pulling down several rebounds. overs. Cutting down their own turnovers, Jacob Bryant and Billy Spence played an playing unbeatable defense and moving aggressive defensive game. For the Cobras, the ball well keeps them moving past each Jaxson Mosby had several steals. opponent that approaches. Shooting 100% • • • in the first half, Sarah Partridge went 4 for The 1st/2nd grade CYO girls played 4, had 3 steals, a rebound, a jump ball and a an energized game today. Everyone played PAGE 8 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Rotarian Foundation Donates $34,000 for Performing and Visual Arts in Livermore Schools By Patricia Koning Pickering-Walters presented the tify the underprivileged children The Rotarian Foundation of members of the Rotarian Founda- who will be invited to attend. Livermore presented a check tion with a DVD of homecoming The Rotarian Foundation is for $34,000 to superintendent skits that was created using the seeking sponsors for the event. Kelly Bowers during the Nov. 16 equipment. “This is to show our “We’re targeting both individuals meeting of the Livermore Board appreciation for your generos- and businesses,” said Gordon. of Education. The money, the ity,” he said. “For $50, you can sponsor a child proceeds of the Foundation’s gala The money was raised at the to attend the party. We are also fundraiser last year, will be used Rotarian Foundation’s annual looking for volunteers to help at for equipment for the Livermore black tie gala fundraiser, held in the party.” School District’s visual and per- November 2009. To give attend- Major sponsorships are avail- forming arts programs. ees a taste of what their contribu- able in amounts ranging from “It’s not often that any chari- tions would support, Livermore $1,000 to $5,000. For more in- table group gives us north of School District music coordi- formation, contact Dave Bedford $30,000 from a single event,” nator Randy Watson, Granada (925-980-8143) or Mike Thomp- said Board President Stewart music teacher Tom Jones, and son (925-449-0612). Donations Gary. “This is a huge sum to can be made through PayPal on Livermore High School drama the Rotarian Foundation web- go towards things we couldn’t teacher Carol Hovey arranged site (www.rotarianfoundation otherwise fund.” student performances during livermore.org). The donation will be used for the gala. Gordon says the Rotarian the musical instrument repair and This year, the Rotarian Foun- Foundation hopes to make the Photo - Doug Jorgensen replacement program; for a kiln dation’s annual fundraiser is a holiday party an annual event. If The changing seasons have added the brilliant colors of fall to area vineyards. and video equipment at Granada holiday party for needy children it is successful, the Foundation High School; and for computers that will raise money for youth will likely expand the party to for digital photography classes at programs in Livermore. “We’re include more children next year. Livermore High School. changing direction this year, in In 1987, the Livermore Rotary OFF-LEASH “We want to buy durable items response to what we see as the Club and the Rotary Club of the (continued from page one) that will be in use for many years needs of the community,” said and move on with no hard feel- and Policy. Livermore Valley jointly estab- board by Laureen Turner and and that will benefit hundreds Gordon. lished the Rotarian Foundation ings.” Both LARPD and the City of students,” explained John He expects up to 200 children David Hutchinson. The retiring He continued, “My goal as currently provide space for cell of Livermore with the goal creat- directors were presented with Gordon, president of the Rotar- to attend the party, which will be ing opportunities for Livermore a board member was to figure towers in publicly owned land in ian Foundation of Livermore. held at Veteran’s Hall on Dec. plaques of appreciation. out ways to deliver the facilities exchange for monthly lease pay- organizations that enrich lives Furst, who spent 8 years on “Rotary has many close ties to 19 from 1 to 4 pm. There will be and build the community. The and services people wanted with ments. The proposed ordinance arts in our community, so there refreshments, games, gifts for all the board, thanked staff mem- the limited means we have. I am and policy will allow telecommu- Foundation emphasizes youth bers for all of the work they did is a real sensitivity to keeping the of the children, and a visit from programs. For more information, grateful that board members in- nications companies to work with arts alive in our schools.” Santa. The Rotarian Foundation on behalf of the district and the dulged me when I wanted to try the city more easily through the visit www.rotarianfoundation board. “You made my time on At the Board meeting, Grana- is working with several local livermore.org. new things.” Of general member design and approval process. da High School teacher Keith nonprofit organizations to iden- the board smoother than it might Tim Barry, Kamena said the most The proposed ordinance and have otherwise been.” important thing he has done for policy includes city-owned prop- Kamena, who served 9 years the district is to build up its re- erty and facilities that LARPD as a board member, compli- serves. Without the reserves, the manages and maintains. The New Book Devotes Chapter mented both the staff and fellow district would have been in much city will share lease revenue board members. He said of board worse shape. with LARPD for facilities built members, “I respect all of you. I At last Wednesday’s meet- on LARPD managed parkland To Pleasanton School am confident that the decisions ing, the board also received owned by the city. LARPD must By Ron McNicoll how to solve at first. That’s really we made we believed in our knew that her child would “not an informational report on the approve any cell towers proposed Pleasanton’s “community what teachers do in a great school hearts were the right thing to do. miss a beat” because of the fam- City of Livermore’s proposed for location on district property. of character” is in the national culture. They help children learn We have been able to disagree ily-style cohesion at the school. Telecommunication Ordinance spotlight with the publication of The community of character how to live a life that has not yet a book about the link between does not stop at the school bound- been lived.” school cultures and strong char- ary. The whole community is Another math teacher, Jana Workshop to Focus on Protection of acter. involved in it, which impressed Halle, says that clear definition Author Samuel Casey Cart- Carter greatly. of right and wrong are impor- Family Ranches and Natural Resources er chose Harvest Park Middle Although Pleasanton’s fami- tant for children. It’s part of the School as one of a dozen schools lies are well-off for the most part, character trait of responsibility. The Alameda County Conser- local rancher Tim Koopmann, cost measures that are eligible for “Life is better when you are held vation Partnership is hosting a Dan Taylor of Bat Conservation that illustrate how a strong school that kind of financial support Farm Bill funding and family striving for academic accountable,” she says. workshop entitled “Eat a burger, International, and a representa- • And, why eating burgers is culture helps kids mature socially One seventh-grader is quoted Save a Bat?” tive of the California Rangeland and intellectually. excellence “is not the key to the good for bats story. In Pleasanton, it’s deeply in corroboration of that view, The workshop will cover a Conservation Coalition. Topics The cost is $15 - includes The book’s title is “On Pur- saying, “If we act like children, variety of steps that ranchers pose: How Great School Cultures interesting that the community will include: your choice of burger, chicken took leadership. The community we are treated like children. But are taking to protect their family • How a salamander and a but- sandwich, or eggplant parmesan Form Strong Character.” Carter mostly the teachers push us to wrote it while serving as a fel- said, ‘This is what we value, and ranches and the natural resources terfly helped save a local ranch, for lunch. now we can figure it out (how to push ourselves more. Not by these ranches provide for. Many and what the family is doing in Please contact Pete Van Hoorn low at the Center for Education making it scary, but by making Reform in Washington, D.C. get there),’” said Carter. of these practices are low-cost or return at (925) 371 - 0154 ext. 123, Although Harvest Park prin- it fun to do more.” can help the operation’s bottom • The hows and whys of ripar- provide name, contact informa- The center advocates the cre- The chapter discusses Har- ation of more charter schools, cipal Jim Hansen was important vest Park’s approach to dealing line. The goal of information to ian pasture management from a tion, number of attendees, and in changing the culture at the be provided is protecting range- rancher’s perspective vouchers for parents to use at with bullying, which is an issue lunch choice for each attendee. school, it goes beyond one person throughout youth education. At land water, wildlife and private • A win-win effort to repair RSVP required by November schools of their choice, and merit pay for teachers. It tracks politics at the top. The change occurs Harvest Park, students are given property stockponds for cows, frogs and 30th. Please do NOT RSVP with when all of the faculty, students, It will be held Saturday, De- centered on those issues in the language to overcome that situ- salamanders in Alameda Coun- Bosco’s! support staff and parents become ation. For example, students are cember 4th, 11 a.m. to 2:30 ty The workshop sponsored in various states, with its observa- tions published on its web site. involved. That was what Hansen encouraged to say, “Can you use p.m. at Bosco’s Bones & Brew • How wildlife escape ramps part by the Bureau of Reclama- accomplished at Harvest Park. Despite the group’s charter another word, please?” if some- in Sunol. Advance reservations for troughs can help local wildlife tion and the San Francisco Public one is using foul language. are needed. and improve production Utilities Commission. school advocacy, Carter said that Now that Hansen has become there are excellent public school Bullies are known as sharks Guest speakers will include • Other wildlife-friendly, low- principal at Amador Valley High at Harvest Park. Signs are posted districts such as Pleasanton’s that School, Carter expects the same designating “shark-free zones” to also focus intensely on improving cultural change there, with good remind kids about treating people Library Receives Grant to Fund Science Program students’ lives. Harvest Park is a prospects for further spread courteously. The Livermore Public Library skills they need to reach their current science resource materi- perfect example. throughout the district. Carter has plans for a future has been awarded a $2,400 grant career goals. The two weekend als, DVDs, and reference materi- Harvest Park even stood out One thing underscored in book, a sequel to “On Purpose.” as part of the Lawrence Liver- workshops, to be held in May als for science career exploration above all the other Pleasanton Carter’s book is the relationship It will be about the implementa- more National Security Commu- at the Civic Center Library, will and learning will be provided. schools, which also emphasize between treating students well tion of “On Purpose,” by examin- nity Gift Giving Program to fund feature experts from several dif- These materials will be available community of character, primar- and the ability to learn more. The ing tools to help create schools a series of teen programs entitled ferent science fields who will for teens to check-out during the ily because of its unified spirit of author quotes Harvest Park math with great character. He also “Totally Amazing Careers in talk about their careers, provide “Totally Amazing Careers in Sci- faculty, students and parents, he teacher Randy Lomas as saying, hopes to work with his three Science.” a hands-on activity to demon- ence” workshops and for public told The Independent in a phone “It matters not what they learn young daughters, ages 7, 9, and These programs are designed strate how science is integrated use once the workshops have interview. here. What matters is who they 11, on a children’s book. to fill the gap of information that into their career, and answer concluded. In the book, Carter illustrated become. And it’s our job to help More information about “On teens, ages 12 to 18, need about questions. Further program details will this “one big family” atmosphere them do that well.” Purpose” is available at the web colleges and careers in the field As part of the “Totally Amaz- be forthcoming on the Library’s by talking about a mother who Lomas goes on to say, “Great site of the Center for Education of science, and will assist teens ing Careers in Science” program, website located at www.liver- was undergoing treatment for problem solvers learn how to Reform, which is co-publisher in identifying the pathways and more.lib.ca.us. cancer. The woman said that she solve problems they don’t know of the book. Lab Monitoring Finds No Adverse Impacts from Operations Environmental monitoring of environmental repositories of removing contaminants from Two methods are used to assess background radiation. The col- 750,000 times smaller than those operations at Lawrence Liver- the Livermore and Tracy public groundwater and soil vapor that radiological dose. One assesses lective doses from LLNL op- caused by natural radioactivity in more National Laboratory in libraries. resulted from past operations. maximum dose to a hypothetical erations in 2009 were more than the environment. 2009 indicates no adverse impact Air at the Laboratory and The impact of LLNL opera- person living for a year, 24 hours to public health or the environ- throughout the Livermore Val- tions on surface soil in 2009 was a day, in a location near the Lab ment from Laboratory opera- ley and in the Tracy area is insignificant. Vegetation and where that person would receive tions. The findings are presented monitored by some 65 instru- Livermore Valley wine were the highest possible radiation in the Laboratory’s Environmen- ments at 38 separate locations. In sampled for tritium, and the dose through the air. The other tal Report 2009. 2009, radionuclide and beryllium concentrations in most off-site method assesses collective dose The report summarizes the concentrations in air were well vegetation samples were below to the population living within Lab’s regulatory compliance with below the levels that would cause the lower limit of detection. For 80 kilometers of the Laboratory. environmental standards and concern for the environment or Livermore Valley wines pur- The maximum radiological doses requirements, describes LLNL’s public health. chased in 2009, the highest con- that could have been received environmental protection and Data indicate LLNL has good centration of tritium was just 0.77 by individual members of the remediation programs, and pres- control of its discharges to the percent of the EPA’s standard for public from releases to the air ents the results of environmen- sanitary sewer; discharges to maximal permissible level of from Livermore site and Site tal monitoring for the main surface water and groundwater tritium in drinking water. 300 operations in 2009 were just Laboratory site and Site 300, the do not have any apparent envi- Annual radiological doses at 0.042 percent and 0.0000027 Laboratory’s experimental test ronmental impact. At both the the Livermore site and at Site 300 percent of the federal limit, facility near Tracy. Monitoring Livermore site and at Site 300, in 2009 were found to be well be- respectively - more than 8,000 samples were taken from air, remediation activities continued low the applicable standards for times smaller and 100 million water, vegetation, foodstuff, soil to meet regulatory milestones, radiation protection of the public. times smaller, respectively, than and wastewater on site and in the dose members of the public surrounding communities. receive annually from natural In addition, the report docu- ments the actions the Laboratory has taken to comply with federal, state and local environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Resource Con- servation and Recovery Act, and National Environmental Policy Act, among others. The following is a summary of findings in Lawrence Liver- more National Laboratory’s Environmental Report 2009. The complete report may be accessed on the Web at https://saer.llnl. gov. It also is available in the The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 - PAGE 9

Medicare Enrollment Saints Church at 911 Dowling Street the quality of life in Dublin this past AT THE PATTERSON HOUSE: a.m.at the potting shed (the Juniper Catch the jolly good sunset from the Congressman Jerry McNerney in San Leandro. year. Nomination criteria for both 5-8:45 pm, Friday, December 10; Lodge) through the end of the year. top of Flag Hill and nature’s hoopla (CA-11) reminds seniors that they This marks the second year that the Citizen and Young Citizen of the The Patterson House Museum will The garden is located on Wildcat on the way down. Bring a trail dinner. have until December 31, 2010 to take the ‘Crafty Ladies’ headed by textile Year Awards are based on the Dublin be elegantly lit in all of its Victorian Canyon Road at South Park Drive Funny hats provided. 7+yrs advantage of the open enrollment pe- artist Pam Blades, have hosted the Pride – Integrity in Action Program’s splendor! Each room is a journey into in Tilden Regional Park (South Park Other Parks: riod for Medicare’s prescription drug holiday boutique. “This collective 10 Characteristics: Responsibil- Christmas past filled with holiday Drive is closed November through MONDAY BIRDING: 9 - 11:30 plans. During the open enrollment of home artisans offers a broad range ity, Respectfulness, Caring, Giving, music and cheer. Tickets are available March to protect migrating newts). am, Monday, November 29, De- period, seniors can choose to enroll of gift items that all feature a very Positive Attitude, Trustworthiness, in advance from www.regerec.com. Info: www.nativeplants.org or (510) cember 6; Easy birding walks of in or modify their existing prescrip- individual look, quality construction, Cooperation, Doing One’s Best, Hon- Fee: $5/adults & seniors, $3/children 544-3169. about two miles, mostly flat terrain. tion drug plan. and affordability,” according to Ms. esty, and Self-Discipline. The Young (3+yrs.) in advance. Tickets also COYOTE HILLS, Fremont. November 15: Sunol. Meet at the “Medicare prescription drug Blades, a graduate of the California Citizen of the Year recognizes the available at the door, $6/adults & OPEN HOUSE AND GIFT Green Barn. Sunol Regional Wilder- plans are an important part of the College of the Arts in Oakland whose volunteer service of Dublin’s youth seniors, $4/children. EXTRAVAGANZA: 11 am - 3 pm, ness Southeast end of Geary Road, overall Medicare program and can whimsical table runners, blankets, in 1st – 12th grade. NEW YEAR’S DAY BUTTER- Friday, November 26; Make na- Sunol, CA 94586. November 29: and placemats are designed from All nominees will be recognized at FLY WALKS: 11:30 am and 1:30 ture-themed gift cards and stocking Lake Del Valle. Meet at the Marina. save seniors money,” continued Rep. pm, Saturday, Jan 1; Start the year McNerney. “I have been a strong fabric that she collects from around the City Council meeting on Tuesday, stuffers; enjoy hot, spiced apple cider DEL VALLE REGIONAL PARK the world. Each piece makes a gift February 15, 2011 and then invited to off right with an inspiring visit to and handmade treats; or participate in , 7000 Del Valle Road, Livermore, supporter of lowering prescription a monarch butterfly over-wintering drug prices for our seniors and I of a functional piece of art. attend a recognition event to be held an insider’s tour of our facility and its CA 94550. December 6: Shadow Shoppers will find hand dyed silk at the Shannon Community Center site. Discover the amazing migration exhibits. Watch wildlife videos and Cliffs. Information: (510) 544-3249. will continue advocating for this of these tiny creatures and how they coverage.” scarves, original artwork, jewelry, on Friday, February 18, 2011, where join in exhibit-based scavenger hunts Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation survive the long cold season in our with special prizes! Enter the raffles Area, 2500 Stanley Boulevard, Pleas- Seniors can contact the Centers knit scarves and hats, holiday orna- the winners will be announced. The eucalyptus trees. Spotting scopes will ments and decorations, handmade Organization of the Year will receive a at noon, 1, 2, and 3 p.m. Unique gift anton, CA 94566 for Medicare & Medicaid Services 24 be used to view these magnificent items will be on sale in our Visitor WEDNESDAY WALK: Discover hours a day at 800-633-4227 or visit gift cards and tags, and food gifts $500 cash prize, and a $300 donation creatures up close and personal. Meet such as homemade limoncello and will be given to each the Citizen and Center. the natural and human history of our http://www.medicare.gov to find out at the Granary. OHLONE VILLAGE SITE beautiful parklands and improve your about the costs and coverage levels ‘Herbes de Oakland,' an offshoot of Youth Citizen of the Year’s favorite BLACK DIAMOND MINES the traditional ‘Herbes de Provence’ non-profit organization. OPEN HOUSE: 10 am - noon; 1-4 health on a fast-paced hike. Hikers of each plan offers. Prescription drug REGIONAL PRESERVE: 5175 pm, Saturday, November 27; Visit a all ages and abilities are welcome. plans adjust their costs and coverage made with dried marjoram, thyme, Nomination can be completed Somersville Road, Antioch. more than 2,000-year-old Ohlone vil- Wear sturdy footwear, bring water levels yearly and the open enrollment savory, basil, rosemary and sage online at the City’s website, www. HAZEL-ATLAS SILICA-SAND lage site where you’ll be introduced and dress for the weather - we walk period is the only time of year seniors grown in the Oakland hills. dublin.ca.gov, or by calling the City MINE TOUR: Various times, week- to the beauty and vibrancy of Ohlone rain or shine. Hikes begin at 9:30 a.m. can enroll or change their plan. For more information, please call Clerk’s Office at (925) 833-6650. The ends Mar-Nov; Explore the under- cultures past to present. Enjoy cultural For a flyer with more information, Residents of the 11th Congres- Pam Blades at (510) 483-4111. nomination deadline is end of day on ground through a guided tour; learn demonstrations. Meet at Tuibun Vil- please call (510)544-3282 or check sional District can contact Rep. Thursday, January 27, 2011. its history, geology, and the methods lage Site. Disabled accessibility can the hiking page at www.ebparks.org. McNerney’s Stockton office at 209- Office Opens used to mine the sandstone. Ninety- be arranged with prior notification; December 1–Coyote Hills: A moder- 476-8552 or Pleasanton office at 925- Team 292-SOLD has officially Toys, Comic Books, minutes, advanced reservation tours call (510) 544-3220 or email chvisit@ ate hike on the Meadowlark trail at 737-0727 if they have questions about opened its doors at their new office are offered 2 p.m., weekends March ebparks.org the edge of the marsh. Meet at the Medicare prescription drug benefits Collectibles through November. A 10 a.m. tour is OHLONE VILLAGE SITE Visitor Center parking lot. in Livermore. Team 292-SOLD’s Toy Havoc will host the Tri-Val- available to groups of ten or more on or the open enrollment period. team leader, Tammy Pryor, is well WORKDAY: 10 am - 3 pm, Sunday, COYOTE HILLS REGIONAL ley Toy, Comic Book and Collectible weekends (not available for on-line November 28 #25436; Help prepare PARK , 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, recognized and valued in the world of Show on December 5, 2010 at the registration.) First come first served Real Estate with her dedication to the a more-than-2,000-year-old village Fremont. December 15–Garin/Dry Winter Camp Alameda County Fairgrounds in tours are offered at noon and 3 p.m. site for winter storms by repairing Creek: A moderate three and one Vacationers ages 6-12 can join the local, state and national associations Pleasanton, 7+yrs. Registration is required for 10 fun at Alviso Adobe Community Park regarding real estate. and replacing structural elements half-mile hike along the creek, Early bird attendance will be 8 a.m. & 2 p.m. tours. Fee: $3 on reconstructed house frameworks, followed by a potluck lunch. Meet in Pleasanton for a winter camp that Pryor and her team strive to bring AM – 10 AM with a $10 per person HAZEL-ATLAS MINE OPEN and cleaning and weeding the site. at the Barn. Garin Regional Park, is all about nature, with some very the most professionalism to the busi- admission; General Admission will HOUSE: Noon-4:30 pm, Saturday, Snacks, water, soda, gloves, tools 1320 Garin Avenue, Hayward. De- cool history woven in. Crafts, skills ness and handle each client as though be 10:01- 4 PM with $3 adults and November 27; Free self-guided tours and a presentation about the site’s cember 29–Mission Peak: Round and games are all included. Camp they were a personal friend. Pryor $1 children under 12 years of age; will let you explore nearly 1,000 feet significance provided. 12+yrs. Reg- out the year with a very strenuous runs Wednesday through Friday, said it’s all about helping clients fairground parking will be $8 for of cool underground workings in this istration is required. eight-mile climb up the east side of December 29-31 from 9:00 a.m. to and being completely honest about the show. restored 1930s-era silica sand mine. HOMEMADE HOLIDAY: 11 am this landmark. We’ll begin at Sunol 3:00 p.m. Call (925) 931-5340 for the industry. Featured guests for the show This is the last Saturday the mine will - 3 pm, Saturday, December 11 Come Regional Wilderness. more information. Team 292-SOLD helps home buy- include Kathy Garver- Best known be open for the season. 7+yrs get crafty and make handmade gifts VASCO CAVES REGIONAL ers and sellers in the San Francisco for her staring role as “Sissy” in Tilden Regional Park for your loved ones! We’ll use both PRESERVE TOUR: 9 am - 2 pm, Nature Programs East Bay Tri-Valley areas (Livermore, CBS Prime Time Television Series Botanic Garden, Berke- new and recycled materials to create December 4 #25484, December 18 Holiday Guilt Trip is the topic Pleasanton and Dublin to San Ramon, “Family Affair;" C. Andrews Nelson ley: gift tags, soap, crocheted bowls and #25487; 9 am - 2 pm, Sunday, Decem- of a Sat., Nov. 27 Livermore Area Danville, Alamo and Blackhawk, out – bestknown for having played Darth DOCENT-GUIDED GARDEN more – good for Earth and heart! Par- ber 5 #25485, December 12 #25486 9 Recreation and Park District ranger to Hayward, Castro Valley and San Vader in the Special Edition re-release TOURS: 2 pm Saturdays, 11 am and ent participation is required. 8+yrs. am - 2 pm, Wednesday, December 29 program. Meet Ranger Glenn Florey Leandro). for the original Star Wars Trilogy as 2 pm Sundays; Learn about California Fee: donation of $3 per project #25489. This is habitat for eagles and at 10 a.m. at the Wetmore Road en- Team 292-SOLD's new location is well as the Rebel Assault II and Dark native plants on free, docent-guided SUNOL REGIONAL WIL- various nesting and migrating rap- at 2602 Old First Street, Livermore. tours at the beautiful, naturalistic, DERNESS tors hunting bountiful prey in robust trance to Sycamore Grove Park. Force games for Lucas Arts. 10-acre Regional Parks Botanic Eat too much, hike to the top of the This show will have tons of toys, MOON-OF-THE-LONG- restored grasslands. Archaeological Garden in Tilden Regional Park. The NIGHT LUNAR ECLIPSE LUNA- sites contain Indian rock art, part of a hills in Sycamore Grove Park and ease Mayors' Report plenty of comic books and collect- garden is located on Wildcat Canyon the guilt. Please dress in layers and ibles that you can complete or start CY HIKE: 10pm - 12:15 am, Monday, complex reaching back nearly 10,000 A special one-hour edition of Road at South Park Drive in Tilden December 20 # 25523; Celebrate the years. This Preserve is accessible wear comfortable walking shoes. Tri-Valley Mayors' Report, taped your collection. Regional Park (South Park Drive is Holiday Birds Is the Sun., Nov. Dealer space is still available cosmic coincidence of a lunar eclipse through guided tours only, staging on location at the Martinelli Event closed November through March to on (nearly) the winter solstice! Take a from Round Valley Regional Pre- 28 program. Meet Ranger Pat Sotelo Center at Garre Vineyard and Winery for the show. For more information, protect migrating newts). Info: www. short hike on a long night and watch at 8 a.m. at Veterans Park, 5211 Ar- please contact Ed Hussain 209-380- serve aboard District-provided bus in Livermore, will begin airing on nativeplants.org or (510) 544-3169. the full moon bloom red at midnight! transportation. 10+yrs. Registration royo Rd. Channel 30 on Monday, November 247 / [email protected] or Robert THURSDAY MORNING PLANT Registration is required. At this time of year, we often Humes 925-980-5967. is required. Fee: $30 (non-res. $34). 22. Mayors from the cities of Dub- SALE: If the Regional Parks Botanic NEW YEAR’S EVE FLAG HILL Round Valley address: 19450 Marsh have birds on our minds – especially lin, Livermore, Pleasanton, and San Garden is open and it is not pouring HIKE: 3:30 - 7pm, Friday, December the ones that are stuffed, cooked and Creek Road, Brentwood, CA. Contact Ramon will discuss topical issues rain, the volunteers usually sell plants 31; Bundle up to toast the New Year! EBRPD for meeting point. served with a side of mashed potatoes. relating to the Tri-Valley. The show, Park Programs Thursday mornings between 9-11 Be that as it may, this program will East Bay Regional Park District which will run for two weeks, will has a variety of programs planned in focus (but not feast) on fowl during air Monday – Friday at 8 a.m., 11:00 this stroll through Veterans Park’s the coming weeks: a.m. and 5:00 p.m. BACKPACKING – KEEPING bird-rich riparian woodland. This “Twice a year, we have the all the birdwalk will last about two hours. WARM IN THE WILDERNESS: mayors on the set together to focus Garin Regional Park, 1320 Garin Bring binoculars and field guides, on issues relating to the cities in plus there will be a few to lend. Begin- Avenue, Hayward. 10 am, Saturday, the Tri-Valley,” said host/producer, December 4 to 3 pm, Sunday, Decem- Calli Marlene Vaughn o n N o v. 42 years, JoAnn, his daughters ners are encouraged to attend. Carolyn Siegfried. “Among the top- Calli Marlene Vaughn, age 35, 18, 2010 Tiffany Miller of Fairfield and There is a $5 per vehicle parking ber 5 #25619. Overnight backpack ics that are discussed include election adventure teaches comfort in cool born Feb. 14, 1975 in Livermore, following Heidi Miller of Livermore, and fee. A $2 donation is requested to help results, the impact of the passage of support the programs. Participants weather. Hike 3 miles each day; enjoy CA, passed a brief ill- granddaughter Madalynn Jones, various propositions and measures green hills and misty valleys hiking may call 925-960-2400 for more that have an effect on the Tri-Valley away Nov. ness. His as well as numerous nieces and information. through Garin Historical Park and wife and nephews. as well updates about transportation Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Park. 1, 2010 in projects and funding. There is a lot Learn survival techniques and how Mesa, AZ. daughters An avid train enthusiast, Bill Pet Sitting going on in the 580/680 corridor,” to set up tarp shelters. Enjoy great She was a were by his was a member of the Pacific A professional pet sitting and dog Siegfried added. backpack recipes and campfire dedicated s i d e . H e Locomotive Association and walking service, Kelly Cares Pet Appearing on Tri-Valley Mayors' cookery. Food provided. 12+yrs. e m p l o y - was 64. enjoyed spending his weekends Sitting, now has service to cover the Report are Dublin Mayor Tim Sbranti, Registration is required. Fee: $74 Livermore Mayor Marshall Kamena, ee/Global Born in Hayward on April 7, volunteering at the Niles Canyon Livermore, Pleasanton and Dublin (non-res. $82) 1946 to Gertrude and William Railroad. He was also a member area. Kelly Deakin provides care as Pleasanton Vice Mayor Jerry Thorne Ardenwood Historic m a n a g e r a pet sitting professional. (filling in for Mayor Jennifer Hoster- Farm, 34600 Ardenwood at AT&T Miller, both deceased, Bill was of the Livermore Heritage Guild Kelly Cares Pet Sitting provides man) and San Ramon Mayor Abram Blvd., Fremont. for nearly an active boy with a love for and Native Sons of the Golden a variety of services for dogs, cats Wilson. Varietiey of classes and pro- 20 years, former president of the outdoors. He was involved West. He volunteered when his and other household pets, including For a complete schedule of air grams, go to www.ebparks.org for HISPA, and a role model for in the Boy Scouts. His only sib- daughters were in 4H and was dog walks, in-home overnight sit- dates and times, visit the Tri-Valley information. TV web site www.trivalleytv.org. school age mothers. She earned ling, Judy Goltz, preceded him the leader of the Buena Vista 4H ting, as well as caring for your home MONARCH BUTTERFLY in death. rabbit group. including mail pick up and watering In addition, Mayors' Report will be WALKS: 11 am Saturday, November a bachelor's degree in science and of plants. available via Video on Demand at our 27, Sun November 28, and 1:30 pm business management. After graduating from Liver- A memorial service will be More information is available by web site. You can also follow Tri-Val- Saturday, December 11, 18; Join us Calli was an extremely kind more High School in 1964, he held at 2 p.m. Mon., Nov. 29 at calling (925) 518-3144 or emailing ley Community TV on Twitter. on a tour of Ardenwood’s monarch spirit who saw the good in every- served in the US Navy from Callaghan Mortuary, 3833 East [email protected]. butterfly over-wintering site. Search one. She was happy, loving and 1966 to 1972. He served on the Ave., Livermore. Nominations Open for for clusters of butterflies hanging the most caring person who you USS Oklahoma while stationed In lieu of flowers, please make Holiday Boutique Dublin Awards from the branches of eucalyptus trees will ever meet. She was beautiful in Japan from 1970 to 1972. In donations to the American Lung Holiday shoppers seeking an af- and learn about the mysterious migra- The City of Dublin is accepting tion of these majestic insects. These inside and out. She loved playing 1970, he was awarded the Good Association. fordable alternative to the mall should nominations for the 2010 Citizen of soccer for ten years and watching Conduct Award - Electronics head to the ‘Crafty Ladies’ Holiday half-mile walks last approximately the Year, Young Citizen of the Year one hour and are suitable for all ages. her daughter's sports, enjoyed Technician Second Class. His Boutique on Friday, November 26 and Organization of the Year. and Saturday, November 27 from Meet at the Granary. swimming with the Aquacow- wife, JoAnn joined him in Japan. The purpose of these awards is CHRISTMAS AT ARDEN- 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The boutique to recognize outstanding individuals boys and later in the pool she It was while they were there will be held in the church hall of All WOOD: 10 am - 4 pm, Sat and that they welcomed their first and groups who have contributed to Sunday, December 4 & 5. Celebrate designed (it was her favorite the holiday season in Victorian place). She liked photography, daughter Tiffany in 1971. Back style! Visit the beautifully decorated music, hosting celebrations, and in Livermore, in 1976, they LION Patterson House, sing Christmas travelling. welcomed their second daughter, (continued from page one) • Deer-proof landscaping by carols, search for the Yule log, and Calli is survived by her loving Heidi. Although these incidents are avoiding plants that deer like visit Father Christmas. Listen to live daughter and best friend, Cynie; Bill earned an Associates of rare, residents are reminded that to eat. musical performances and enter our Arts Degree in computer science they do occur in rural surround- • Trim brush to reduce hiding home-made “Christmas Cookie” mom, Marlees Carter; dad, Mi- ings, particularly in areas that are places for mountain lions. baking contest (bring your cookies chael Vaughn; two sisters, Lori from Chabot College in 1980. adjacent to open space. Caution • Install motion-sensitive & recipe with you). The day also and Heidi; loving brother, Danny; He retired from the Lawrence must be exercised if a mountain lighting around the house. includes an abundance of Christmas two half siblings, Kelly and Livermore National Laboratory lion is spotted and the Police • Don’t allow pets outside dur- crafts, music, and country kitchen Michael; six nieces and neph- in 2008 after 34 years of employ- Department should be notified ing times when mountain lions treats. Fee: $8/adults, $6/seniors ews, god children and numerous ment in the Industrial Electronics (62+yrs.), $5/children (4-17 yrs.), Department. immediately by calling (925) are most active, dawn, dusk, and children 3 yrs. & under are free. relatives in Switzerland. She was 931-5100, or 911 if the sighting at night. CHRISTMAS TOURS OF THE very loved and will be missed Bill is survived by his wife of involves imminent danger. • Bring pet food inside to PATTERSON HOUSE: Patterson by her family and friends, as her The Pleasanton Police Depart- avoid attracting raccoons, opos- House Staff & Docents; 1 pm, 2 pm smile and gentle soul touched so ment offers the following rec- sum, and other potential moun- & 3 pm, Thu-Friday, December 9-10 many lives. ommendations to ensure public tain lion prey. & 16-17 11 am, Noon, 1 pm, 2 pm & Please come and pray with safety: Mountain lions are more like- 3 pm, Sat-Sunday, December 11-12 & us at a memorial mass at 1 p.m. • Avoid hiking or jogging ly to avoid people and retreat into 18-19. The Patterson House Museum has been transformed into a Victorian on Wed., Dec. 1 at St. Michael's alone in parklands or rural areas. rural areas in most instances. Christmas fantasy. Celebrate the Catholic Church, 458 Maple St., Mountain lions in particular, For further information, please holiday season 1900s style. Enjoy a Livermore, followed by a recep- are most active during the early visit the City of Pleasanton web- docent-led tour of the farm’s elegantly tion to share memories of Calli. morning, evening, and nighttime site at www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us decorated centerpiece. Fee: $4/adults hours. and click on the Police Services & seniors, $3/children (3+yrs.) (plus • Never approach a mountain tab. For specific information farm admission). William C. Miller, Jr. lion. If confronted by one, do about mountain lion sightings A CHRISTMAS EVENING Bill, a life-long Livermore not run! Instead, face the animal, and encounters, please visit the resident, passed away quietly stand upright, wave your arms, California Department of Fish and make noise in an effort to and Game website at www.dfg. scare the animal off. ca.gov/news/issues/lion, or www. • Do not feed deer; it is illegal dfg.ca.gov/keepmewild/docs/li- in California and doing so attracts onbrochure.pdf. mountain lions.

PAGE 10 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010

(continued from page 4) of people that just want to share civil rights were violated. What erty values for a large number Livermore for the downtown station to pay down out debt, repair and their knowledge, paid by cof- is very telling though about his of people. I don't want BART As a 27 year Livermore resi- Bring increased crime directly improve the infrastructure, and fee and donuts) general offices, complaint is the assumption that downtown and you all do, so I dent, I have watched Livermore into the heart of Livermore provide for the common good, all storage--plenty of parking there the poll worker is a "liberal." Did lost that one. But when it was develop from a suburban bed- Cost an estimated extra $2.71 peaceful measures. Concentrat- already--let's get the kids off the Mr Sullins see other voters wear- pointed out that because of your room on the outskirts of the billion dollars over the cost of a ing on peaceful means creates a street and into a place to play, ing similar "liberal" clothing not decision many people are left in Bay Area into a spectacular single station on 580 median at far better chance for peace than learn, and grow to be model citi- being harassed? I'm curious how the very bad position of owning community of wineries with a grade to Isabel The difference is does an aggressive and expensive zens and not drug, gang, violent Mr. Sullins deduced this worker a home that you've made essen- beautiful downtown and many paid by taxpayers regardless of military. offenders we see all too often. was a liberal in the first place? tially worthless, it was obvious parks, including Lake Del Val, the agency and branch of govern- Extra areas outside for various I would encourage Mr. Sullins that you hadn't thought ahead. while managing to keep its small ment that funds Response outdoor games and instruction to sign up to work the polls in Those people in the BART town flavor. For these reasons, Increase noise levels in and Gordon Eggers route area can't sell their homes I am against bringing BART to around Livermore where the outdoors(want to learn about the next election. Then he will because no one will buy a house the downtown area. Specifically, Former Marine trains run above ground. landscaping? How to shops?). be able to ensure all citizens are knowing BART is coming, so the bringing BART into the heart of Disrupt neighborhoods and 2nd Vice Commander Adults also--it's a real drag to allowed to vote without harass- value will go down. Then, in 10, our City will: businesses over large areas for Post # 47 American Legion sign up at Las Positas for one ment and all poll rules are applied 15, maybe 20 years BART will Turn Livermore into a Re- six years as the underground In respose to the Nov. 18, class of CAD/CAM, or just im- equally. take those homes through emi- gional commuter hub with thou- section is built. 2010 entry about "Voting" by prove your language skills--we As a side note, as an Atheist nent domain, giving the owners sands of people using it to reach Place an unsightly rail yard Terrence Sullins: He complained could build and equip the "Boys I'm curious if Mr. Sullins thinks current-market-value, which by the trains every week day adjacent to 1st Street about a poll worker violating his & Girls building for 1/10th the my civil rights are being violated then will be near nothing. These Result in an enormous vol- A new Livermore BART sta- "civil rights" when he clearly costs previously stated" use by forcing me to cast my ballot people will be left with no home ume of traffic over city streets tion will primarily serve people was commiting a gross violation the remaining funds for other on church property? The Lomi- and no money to buy another. as people comb the apparently who live in the Central Valley. of the Federal Flag Law which projects, such as restoring the tas Ave polling place is also my Those that aren't in the path of limited parking being planned Keep BART on 580. states that the US Flag is to be Springtown Library, fire stations, polling place and is located at the BART won't even be bought out flown, hung, draped, etc. but not schools, new city personnel as Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic by eminent domain; their prop- as an article of clothing! The firefighters, police, out-patient Church. Whatever happened to erty values will diminish because poll worker obviously tried to clinics,parking structures for the schools and public buildings BART trains will be roaring past Dublin to Host Sentinels get Mr. Sullins to surender his proposed BART station and the serving as our polling places? their neighborhoods, causing ballot, it is not legal to vote while list goes on. noise and shaking many times committing a crime. Mr. Sullins- Reconsider Decisions each day. Of Freedom Ceremony -you owe that poll worker an Voting Rights Barbara Hickman If any of you lived in that area The City of Dublin is honored of Danville and the City of San apology--in fact--you owe us all Sean Lovens Livermore you wouldn't have been so quick to be hosting this year’s Sentinels Ramon. There will be a short to approve BART to downtown, an apology. I honor you for your Livermore At last Monday's Livermore of Freedom Welcome Home Cer- program with a Proclamation of would you? Put yourselves in emony and Reception. Special Recognition presented to prior service, you were wrong After reading Terrence Sul- City Council meeting there were their position; what would you on this. lins' "Voting" Mailbox letter so many people to speak at the This year’s event will take each of the honorees, followed by do if the City Council had done place on Monday, December 27, a reception of coffee and cookies. On a different note, the (11/18/10), I was disappointed Citizens Forum that Mayor Ka- that to you? Again, please recon- new theatre proposed by the city to hear about his experience on mena lowered the limit for each 2010, at 5:30 p.m. in the Com- The public is invited to attend to sider your decision on BART to munity Room of the Dublin Li- honor the troops. council is truly an indifferent election day at the Lomitas Ave speaker from three minutes to downtown. two minutes. Since I'd prepared brary located at 200 Civic Plaza All those families who have project. We have a new theatre polling place. A poll worker And lastly, you all know in Dublin. already (Bankhead). We should asked him to turn in is ballot a three-minute piece, I wasn't military serving from these areas that I'm not against the regional are encouraged to submit an In- take that land, approx. 100,000 because of the "Proud Tea Party able to say it all. Here is what I'd theater; I think it would be fine. planned to say, in full: The event will honor all cur- formation Request Form. sq.ft. lot and build a " Boys & Patriot" shirt he was wearing. He I do object to it being 9-stories rent military personnel who are Forms may be submitted on- Girls Club"--two story conc- eventually cast his ballot without I consider all of you friends, tall, when it doesn't have to be; or perhaps former friends, so I home on holiday leave who line at the City of Dublin website trete and steel building approx. incident. I am not a poll worker that's my objection. But I can't reside in Dublin, Danville, San www.dublin.ca.gov, obtained by 150,000 sq.ft. to contain various feel I can be honest with you all. believe that you're considering and without knowing the full You guys are really messing up. Ramon, Blackhawk or Alamo. contacting the City Manager’s workshops for plastics, wood- story, my guess is the worker risking the city's General Fund Dublin Mayor Tim Sbranti Office at 833-6650, patricia. What are you thinking?! First to provide collateral for the working, metal fab and motor overstepped the interpretation of you take away the library from will be in attendance to honor [email protected] (for Dublin vehicle areas, complete kitchen CEC § 18370 which states people LVPAC loan for the theater. I these deserving troops, as will residents) or contact the City for the folks in Springtown. I know, can't believe that they've asked for general usage and cooking shall not do "electioneering with- you gave back one day a week, representatives from the Town more information. instruction, computer labs, class- in 100 feet of a polling place." you to do this, especially after but that's not much of a compro- promising they wouldn't! If rooms for general education ( This is an unfortunate incident mise. I understand the need to cut Teens Invited to Meet teachers - real easy to find-tons banks and loan companies won't and I'm sorry Mr. Sullins feels his expenses, but I don't understand take the risk, it must be a bad why you chose to cut library ser- investment, so why would you 'Detective Agency' Author vice. You're all educated people, even consider it? This is such The Livermore Public Library chase. ZONE 7 so you know that reading isn't an an inane idea! You're all mature, invites teens and adults to meet Trina’s vintage style, exten- (continued from page one) option in life - everyone needs to responsible adults. Please don't San Francisco herstorian and sive research into the history read, and you've taken away the risk our city's financial future author, Trina Robbins. This free difficult, because agricultural South Livermore winegrowers, opportunity for many of those of women in comics and San water contracts evolved from is a straight pass-through of the on this one project. Please come event takes place on Sunday, Francisco life-style is clearly Springtown residents. Sure, they back with a resounding "no" to the 1960’s, when the South Bay water cost. The contractors don’t can take a bus to the main library December 5, 2010 from 2:00- identifiable throughout her many Aqueduct (SBA) started deliver- make a profit off the wheel- this unreasonable request! 3:30 pm, in the Craft Room of works. if they need to do research for Please take some time to think ing water to the Valley. “Now it’s ing. However, the turnout firms a school paper on any day but the Civic Center Library. This event is sponsored by before you make these important Trina has been writing adult hard to come in, and try to put a may charge for the overhead Tuesday. But taking a bus isn't decisions for our city. We might the Friends of the Livermore structure around these historical necessary to deliver the water to easy. Have any of you taken a and teen books and comics for Library. not be among those who put up over thirty years. She will talk relationships that developed.” the small customers. Overhead bus from Springtown to the main the money to get you elected, but The library is located at 1188 Most of the 8129 acre feet of involves such things as electric- library? You've been very unfair about her career and most recent So. Livermore Ave. For further we're the ones who voted for you. and soon to be released young Zone 7’s untreated water goes to ity for pumping the water and to those people. Please reconsider Don't make us regret that. information, please visit TEEN the small, family operated vine- maintenance of machinery to your decision on that. adult graphic novel series, The SPACE on the library’s website: yards in South Livermore, and deliver the water. Next, you decided that BART Chicagoland Detective Agency, www.livermore.lib.ca.us or call should run through our down- Keep BART on 580 answer questions and sign books the two major wineries, Wente Jarnail Chahal, a principal Kevin Ellis Sandy at 373-5504. Vineyards and The Wine Group, engineer at Zone 7, said that all town, thereby lowering prop- that will be available for pur- owners of Concannon Vineyard. 72 untreated water subscribers Other rural contractors in- are contacted annually, and asked clude the City of Livermore, how much water they will need which uses its entire allotment for the coming year. They cannot Livermore Updating Recycled Water Plan of untreated water to irrigate the take more than their contractual The Livermore City Council in detail and an implementation space are other criteria. Alter- cost of pumping the water to the Springtown golf course, and the amount. If they use less, they pay endorsed staff recommendations strategy will be developed. natives preserving more acres Bay via the Livermore Amador Altamont Landfill, which uses only for amount used. for the recycled water master The concepts are all midterm as agricultural or open space Water Management Agency pipe- water to settle the daily dust of The price is determined each plan update conceptual alterna- to long-term projects that could would receive higher ranks under line, declared Marchand. That its operation. year, because the cost of the wa- tives and screening criteria. be altered, delayed or cancelled. criteria 5. will save the city money. Seven of the contractors have ter from the state Department of The council added several The city is looking at ten alter- Other criteria look at potable AIRPORT LEASE direct turnouts from the SBA. Water Resources fluctuates each criteria of its own. natives. water offset, potential funding, The council approved a plan They are Livermore, the landfill, year. Past reports have shown that The city is in the process of The first would maximize use and untreated water offset among to negotiate a ground lease for Wente, the Wine Group, Alameda typically it might cost about $100 creating a two-phase recycled in the existing recycled system. others. corporate hangars at the Liver- County, the Norman family prop- per acre foot, but can be more or water master plan. The goal is Alternatives 2 to 7 would ex- Councilmember John March- more Airport with Tri-Valley erty, and Signature-Ruby Hills. less in a given year. Treated water to identify an implementable, pand the use of recycled water and, president of the Tri-Val- Aviation, LLC. The agreement The others are subcontractors for urban use is much higher, go- long-term action plan to reduce throughout the city boundar- ley Water Retailers, suggested would include phased construc- tied into distribution systems ing now for approximately $900 existing potable water use by ies and adjacent communities. that recycled water in North tion of corporate hangars. from some of the seven turnout per acre foot, which is the price supplying recycled water when Routes considered in these op- Livermore be used only for ag- Asked what type of planes contractors. Wente Vineyards that Zone 7 charges the Valley’s appropriate and to expand the tions include Ruby Hill, North ricultural purposes. He said any would be placed in the hangars, alone has 40 subcontractors to four water retailers. recycled water system. The plan Livermore, Springtown, Cal alternative should make sure that airport manager Leander Hauri whom it wheels water. An acre foot is the amount would also optimize the exist- Water East, Cal Water South, and the groundwater is protected. He replied, “There will be medium The State Department of Wa- of water that would cover one ing and future recycled water southeast Livermore vineyards. proposed that stream recharge be size corporate aircraft that are ter Resources (DWR) bills Zone acre to a depth of one foot. In system. Options 8 to 10 would de- used as opposed to direct injec- already on the field, as well as 7 for water taken at the SBA urban terms, it can support two Phase one of the process will velop a satellite recycled water tion; that would provide environ- stage 3 quieter aircraft (jets).” turnouts. In turn, Zone 7 bills the households for one year. In agri- establish conceptual alternatives facility, groundwater recharge, mental enhancement by allowing The proposal is for construc- seven turnout contractors. Any cultural terms, it takes about 1.5 and screening criteria. and potential regional water year-round stream flow. tion of six hangar units in two of those seven who are wheeling acre feet to irrigate an acre of Screening will be used to rank trades/transfers. Marchand also said that the buildings. water to other users collect the certain varieties of grapes with the conceptual alteratives as to Criteria include looking a city should work with Zone 7 VICE MAYOR small users’ shares as reimburse- water-conserving drip irrigation, their ability to achieve the city’s potential recycled water demand to coordinate storage opportuni- John Marchand was appointed ment on the bill from Zone 7. but more than that if spray irriga- goals for the use of recycled within each alternative. Ease of ties. to serve as vice mayor. He re- The arrangement with the tion is used. water. In phase 2, the three most implementation operational im- One of the benefits of using places Doug Horner, who took small users, many of whom are viable alternatives will be studied pacts and preservation of open recycled water is the reduction in on the role of vice mayor over the last year. LEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS www.independentnews.com

LEGAL NOTICES This business is conducted FICTITIOUS BUSINESS This statement was filed with CA NETWORKING/SOUTH ANIMALS FOUND AN ANIMAL? AUTOMOTIVE DONATE VEHICLE: RE- by:an Individual NAME STATEMENT the County Clerk of Alameda COUNTY BIDDERS CON- FREE SECTION. Call CEIVE $1000 Grocery Cou- FOR INFORMATION The registrant began to trans- FILE NO. 444688 on November 18, 2010. Ex- FERENCE RFQ #900788 2) CATS/DOGS Barbara 10)AUTOS WANTED pon. Your Choice. Noahs Arc PLACING LEGAL act business under the ficti- The following person(s) do- pires November 18, 2015. for Electric Vehicle – Nissan ADOPT A DOG OR CAT, for 925 243-8000 to let 33,000 DONATE YOUR CAR: Children’s - No Kill Animal Shelters. NOTICES tious business name (s) listed ing business as:JC Nails The Independent Legal No. Leaf, Thursday, December adoption information contact households know! Cancer Fund! Help Save A Advance Veterinary Treat- CONTACT BARBARA @ above on October 12, 2010 SPA, 4555 Hopyard Rd. Ste 2897. Publish November 25, Valley Humane Society at Child’s Life Through Research & ments. Free Towing, IRS Tax 925 243-8000 09, 2010, 2:00 p.m. – Dub- 6)LOST Signature of Registrant: C9, Pleasanton Ca 94588 December 2, 9, 16, 2010. lin Public Library, 200 Civic 925 426-8656. Support! Free Vacation Package. Deductible, Non-Runners. 1- FICTITIOUS BUSINESS /s/:Barbara Ann Roby is hereby registered by the Plaza, The Program Room, LOST A FAMILY PET? FREE Fast, Easy & Tax Deductible. Call 866-912-GIVE. (CAL*SCAN) This statement was filed with following owner(s): NOTICE OF INVITING BIDS Adopt a new best friend: Call Barbara 925 1-800-252-0615. (CAL*SCAN) NAME STATEMENT Dublin, CA SECTION. the County Clerk of Alameda Van NGO, 6237 Wade Ct., Notice is hereby given that Responses Due TVAR, the Tri-Valley Animal 243-8000. FILE NO. 444473 by 2:00 pm on January 14, Rescue, offers animals for The following person(s) doing on October 28, 2010. Expires Pleasanton Ca 94588 sealed competitive bids will 2011 County Contact: Ev- adoption every Saturday and business as:The Bracelet Bar, October 28, 2015. This business is conducted be accepted in the office of elyn Benzon (510) 208-9622 Sunday, excluding most holi- 252 Main St., Pleasanton Ca The Independent Legal No. by:an Individual the GSA-Purchasing Depart- 2893. Publish November 18, The registrant began to ment, County of Alameda, or via email: evelyn.ben- days. Saturdays from 9:30 94566 is hereby registered by [email protected] Attendance the following owner(s): 25, December 2, 9, 2010. transact business under the 1401 Lakeside Drive, Suite am to 1:00 pm, dogs and cats fictitious business name (s) at Networking Conference is are available at the Pleas- Nancy K. McKain, 94 Wind- FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 907, Oakland, CA 94612 Non-mandatory. Information ward Common Unit 2, Liver- listed above on November NETWORKING/NORTH anton Farmers Market at W. NAME STATEMENT 5, 2010 regarding the above may Angela and First Streets. more Ca 94551 FILE NO. 444824 COUNTY BIDDERS CON- be obtained at the Alameda Signature of Registrant: Two locations will showcase This business is conducted The following person(s) doing FERENCE RFQ #900788 County Current Contracting /s/:Van NGO cats only: Petsmart in Dublin by:an Individual business as:Sunshine Natural for Electric Vehicle – Nissan Opportunities Internet website This statement was filed with noon to 4 and the Pet Food The registrant began to trans- Products, 819 Rincon Ave., Leaf, Wednesday, Decem- at www.acgov.org. the County Clerk of Alameda Express in Livermore 1 to 4. act business under the ficti- Livermore Ca 94551 is hereby ber 08, 2010, 10:00 a.m. 11/25/10 on November 5, 2010. Ex- Sundays, cats are at Petsmart tious business name (s) listed registered by the following – General Services Agency, CNS-1990938# pires November 5, 2015. in Dublin 1 to 4, and PetCo above on May 1, 2010 owner(s): th The Independent Legal No. 1401 Lakeside Drive, 11 The Independent Legal No. Signature of Registrant: Maria Lourdes Rodriguez, in San Ramon 11 to 3. TVAR 2896. Publish November 25, Floor, Room 1107, Oakland, 2895. Publish November /s/:Nancy K. McKain 3636 Montrose Pl., Livermore at (925) 803-7043 or visit our December 2, 9, 16, 2010. 25, 2010 This statement was filed with Ca 94551 website at www.tvar.org. the County Clerk of Alameda Hector Rodriguez, 3636 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS on November 1, 2010. Ex- Montrose Pl., Livermore Ca NAME STATEMENT pires November 1, 2015. 94551 FILE NO. 445057-445058 The Independent Legal No. This business is conducted The following person(s) doing 2890. Publish November 11, by:Husband and wife business as:1)Apoyo Re- 18, 25, December 2, 2010. The registrant began to search, 2)Apoyo Soft, 4451 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS transact business under the Arabian Rd., Livermore Ca NAME STATEMENT fictitious business name (s) 94551 is hereby registered by FILE NO. 444391 listed above on September the following owner(s): The following person(s) do- 20, 1995 Rodin Porrata, 4451 Arabian ing business as:BR Travel Signature of Registrant: Rd., Livermore Ca 94551 Services, 211 Wildrose Com- /s/:Maria Lourdes Rodriguez This business is conducted mons #6, Livermore Ca 94551 This statement was filed with by:an Individual is hereby registered by the the County Clerk of Alameda Registrant has not yet begun following owner(s): on November 19, 2010. Ex- to transact business under Barbara Ann Roby, 211 Wil- pires November 19, 2015. the fictitious business name drose Commons #6, Liver- The Independent Legal No. or names listed. more Ca 94551 2894. Publish November 18, Signature of Registrant: 25, December 2, 9, 2010. /s/:Rodin Porrata The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 - PAGE 11 LEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS www.independentnews.com

SELL YOUR USED CAR 143)WANTED TO BUY ADVERTISE YOUR JOB NEED CASH NOW? Did you sistance. Computer avail- HERE. Call Barbara at 925- Opening in 240 California carry back a NOTE for prop- able. Financial Aid if quali- 243-8000 WANTED DIABETIC TEST erty sold? We buy NOTES fied. SCHEV certified. Call Cash Paid. Un- newspapers. Reach over 0R STRIPS. secured by Real Estate, www.independent- opened, Unexpired Boxes 6 million readers for ONLY 888-210-5162 www.Centura. Top $ Offer! Call for a Free news.com Pay by Credit Only. All Brands Consid- $550! Call this newspaper us.com (CAL*SCAN) Quote Today! 408-234-2354. Card for any Classified or ered. Help others, don’t throw or visit: www.Cal-SCAN.com (CAL*SCAN) 195)TIMESHARES/RESORTS Display ads. boxes away. For more infor- (CAL*SCAN) SELL/RENT Your TIME- What Is There to Be Thankful For? EMPLOYMENT mation, Call 888-491-1168. DISPLAY ADVERTISING in Do You Receive Payments By Cher Wollard (CAL*SCAN) On A NOTE? NEED CASH SHARE For CASH!!! Our 56) ADULT CARE 140 Cal-SCAN newspapers Despite gloomy headlines, there is much to be grateful for in the NOW? Full & Partial Buy- Guaranteed Services will Sell/ current housing market. CAREGIVERS NOTICES/ANNOUNCEMENTS statewide for $1,550! Reach Outs. Call Safeway Capital Rent Your Unused Timeshare NEEDED for elder care. 155)NOTICES over 3 million Californians! Toll-Free 866-241-9922. for CASH! Over $78 Million The latest figures from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Light housekeeping er- FREE email brochure. Call (CAL*SCAN) Dollars offered in 2009! www. Development show continued signs of stabilization. (See www.hud. : rands transportation meal “NOTICE TO READERS (916) 288-6019. www.Cal- SellaTimeshare.com (877) gov/scorecard). California law requires that prep personal care. Please SCAN.com (CAL*SCAN) 185)SCHOOLS/EDUCATION contractors taking jobs that to- 554-2098 (CAL*SCAN) And the local market is looking even better than the national scene. fax resume tal $500 or more (labor and/or 181)FINANCIAL SERVICES HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! So this Thanksgiving, here are 10 Real Estate Reasons to Give 925 371-8118 Graduate in 4 weeks! FREE 200)TRAVEL/VACATIONS materials) be licensed by the CASH NOW! Cash for your Thanks: 60) BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Contractors State License Brochure. Call Now! 1- All inclusive guided 10-day 1. The market is normal. structures settlement or annu- 866-562-3650 ext. 60 www. tour COSTA RICA only BE WARY of out of area Board. State law also requires ity payments. Call J.G. Wen- Home prices have stopped declining this past year – in fact, Bay Area companies. Check with the that contractors include their S o u t h E a s t e r n H S . c o m $995 plus taxes and fees. tworth. 1-866-SETTLEMENT local Better Business Bureau license numbers on all adver- (CAL*SCAN) Affordable tours since prices are up. Nationally, homeowners added $95 billion in home equity (1-866-738-8536). Rated A+ before you send any money tising. Check your contractor’s ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE 1952. FREE 28-page bro- in the second quarter of this year. or fees. Read and understand status at www.cslb.ca.gov by the Better Business Bu- chure. 1-800-Caravan New housing starts for single family homes have held steady for reau. (CAL*SCAN) from Home. *Medical, *Busi- any contracts before you sign. or800-321-CSLB (2752). Un- ness, *Paralegal, *Criminal or CaravanTours.com several months. The National Association of Home Builders Housing Shop around for rates. licensed persons taking jobs Justice. Job placement as- (CAL*SCAN) reports more prospective buyers are looking at new homes. less than $500 must state And the quality of that traffic seems to be getting better,” said NAHB 71) HELP WANTED in their advertisements that INDEPENDENT they are not licensed by the Chairman Bob Jones. “Meaning that more people appear to be serious CONTRACTORS WANTED Contractors State License about buying in the near future.” for Senior Home Health Board.” As for Livermore, 273 resale homes were on the market at the begin- Care Must Have REAL ESTATE ning of this week. The average time on market is currently about 43 days. Experience This looks pretty normal. Senior Solutions, Inc. The Federal Fair Housing Act, 925 443-3101 Title VII of the Civil Rights Of course, many of those listings are short sales or bank-owned, and Act of 1964, and state law more foreclosed properties may be headed to the market. But we are plus EMT FREE TRAINING prohibit advertisements for well past the Big Stall of 2008, when twice as many properties were on pay, benefits, vacation, regu- housing and employment lar raises. HS grads 17-34. the market for nearly twice as long. that contain any preference, Help others. Gain financial Nor are we anywhere near the Crazy Days of 2004-07, when we limitation or discrimination security. Call Mon-Fri 1-800- based on protected classes, dipped below 50 homes on the market and everything sold so fast no 345-6289. (CAL*SCAN) including race, color, religion, one had time to think. In contrast, this looks like a market to be thank- ABLE TO TRAVEL. Hiring sex, handicap, familial status ful for. 8 people. No experience or national origin. IVPC does 2. Interest rates are at 60-year lows. necessary. Transportation not knowingly accept any Interest rates on mortgages at the lowest point since the National & Lodging furnished. Paid advertisements that are in Association of Realtors started tracking them. training. Work and travel violation of the law. entire USA. Start today. www. That’s good news for buyers, as well as folks who have equity in their ProtekChemical.com 1-208- 157)APT/DUPLEX/HOUSE/ homes and are looking to refinance. HUD reports 8.3 million homeowners 590-0365. (CAL*SCAN) RENTALS have refinanced into low-cost loans since April 2009. GOT A HOUSE FOR RENT? TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED That’s an estimated $15.2 billion in annual borrower savings to be Let the 33,000 households/ grateful for. AD businesses that receive the call Barbara 925 243-8000 Independent know about it. 3. Affordability remains high or go on-line at To place an ad go to www.in- According to the California Association of Realtors Affordability www.independentnews. or call Index, more first-time home buyers can afford to purchase an entry-level Also available pay by dependentnews.com com Barbara at 925 243-8000 Credit Card for Classified and home in the state now than last quarter, or even than last year. Display Ads. 160)BOAT/RV and RETAIL The Index hit 66 percent in the third quarter of 2010, up from 64 72) HELP WANTED/DRIVERS LOOKING FOR RETAIL percent a year earlier. OR ”With interest rates at historic lows, which have led to lower monthly Company Drivers (Solos mortgage payments, affordability continues to remain at near record-high *GREAT STORAGE SPACE? & Hazmat Teams) Great Location Off Hwy 580 PAY * GREAT MILES * CDL- levels in California,” said C.A.R. President Beth L. Peerce. On Kitty Hawk Road A Required. We also have Even the Bay Area – always the least affordable region in the state For Details Email: dedicated & regional positions – has a current affordability index of 51, about double the low point in [email protected] available. Call 866-789-8947. 2006. Swift (CAL*SCAN) 162)HOMES FOR SALE 4. Foreclosures are down. Company Drivers (Solos 70+ CALIFORNIA bank- Nationally, foreclosure filings were down 4.39 percent in October & Hazmat Teams) *GREAT owned homes selling by from the previous month and down 0.04 percent from the year before, PAY *GREAT MILES *CDL- auction November 29th - according to RealtyTrac ‘s U.S. Foreclosure Market Report. A Required. We also have December 4th. Don’t miss dedicated & regional positions That decline may be due in part to the freeze caused by the “robo this sale! Get all the details signing scandal.” available. Call: 866-448-1055 at www.CaHouseAuction. SWIFT. (CAL*SCAN) com or call 1-866-504-0811. But in California, the change appears more dramatic and sustained. REGIONAL CDL DRIVERS (CAL*SCAN) Foreclosures fell nearly 12 percent between September and October, and were down more than 22 percent from the year before. NEEDED! Gordon Trucking, By Advertising with The In- Inc. Sign on bonus in some dependent, you can reach Part of this trend may be due to the new Home Affordable Foreclosure areas! Current Openings on over 33,000 homes and busi- Alternatives Program and the improved Home Affordable Mortgage our NCA Fleet. Home weekly Program designed to assist struggling homeowners. available! Consistent Miles & nesses with your message. Time off! Full Benefits, 401k. To place an ad, please call HAMP provides incentives for lenders to modify mortgages of ho- We have lots of Freight! www. Barbara at 925 243-8000 meowners in danger of foreclosure. The program had a rocky start, but TeamGTI.com 1-888-832- 165) HOUSE/ROOMS/RENT- between April 2009 and the end of August, 3.73 million modification 6484 EOE. (CAL*SCAN) ALS TO SHARE arrangements were initiated. CLASSIFIEDS RENT YOUR EMPTY LIV- HAFA, in effect April 5, 2010, through Dec. 31, 2012, is designed ING SPACE Advertise with to streamline the process of getting lender approval for short sales or ************** The Independent rand reach deed-in-lieu as viable alternatives to foreclosures. Reaches over 33,000 homes and busi- Reducing foreclosures gives homeowners, lenders and the community 33,000 Homes nesses with your message. reason to be grateful. Direct mail Call Barbara 925 243-8000 5. VA benefits are extended. 172)LOTS & ACREAGE/OUT In October, President Obama signed the Veterans’ Benefit Act of to 2010, which exempts more veterans from paying loan funding fees when Livermore, Dublin, OF STATE By Advertising with The In- obtaining VA-backed mortgages. Pleasanton & Sunol dependent, you can reach This represents a substantial savings—VA loan funding fees are Call Barbara over 33,000 homes and busi- generally 2.15 percent of the loan value for no-down payment VA 925 243-8000 nesses with your message. mortgages. To place an ad, please call 76)HELP WANTED/SALES Previously, the fee was waived for veterans who qualified for disability Barbara at 925 243-8000 compensation from the VA. The new law extends that benefit to veterans TRAVEL, WORK, PARTY, SERVICES PLAY! Now hiring 18-24 who have gone back into active military service and draw military pay guys/gals for exciting travel 177)BUSINESS SERVICES instead of retirement or disability compensation. job. 2 wk pd. training. Hotel/ ADVERTISE YOUR HOME, 6. Many buyers are able to take advantage of significant tax ben- Transportation provided. Re- property or business for sale efits. turn guaranteed. Call today/ in 240 California newspapers. About this time last year, Congress extended federal tax credits for start today. 877-724-3713. Reach over 6 million readers (CAL*SCAN) first-time homebuyers. In early 2010, the state followed with credits for for ONLY $550! Call this both first-time buyers and buyers of new homes. Available to Travel? Earn newspaper or visit: www.CAL- Above Average $$$ Selling SCAN.com (CAL*SCAN) These incentives incited a steep increase in home sales. While the with Fun Successful Business space quieted with the expiration of the credits, the flurry helped to clear Group. No Experience Neces- out inventory and jump-start the market. sary. Paid Training. Lodging, The lucky buyers who participated not only acquired beautiful new Transportation Provided. 1- homes, they will see rewards in April. 877-646-5050. (CAL*SCAN) In addition to the tax credits, they will be eligible for other tax ben- MERCHANDISE efits that nearly all homeowners are entitled to: exemptions on mortgage 109)EQUIPMENT FOR interest, property taxes and other expenses. SALE 7. Energy savers receive tax benefits. NEW Norwood SAWMILLS- The Obama Administration also enacted significant tax credits for LumberMate-Pro handles installing solar energy or small wind turbines on your residence, replac- logs 34” diameter, mills ing old appliances with more efficient models, and other energy-saving boards 28” wide. Automated strategies. quick-cycle-sawing increases Consult your tax advisor to see what benefits you may be eligible for efficiency up to 40%! www. this year. Then figure up your savings, in taxes and energy costs, and add NorwoodSawmills.com/300N that to your list of reasons to be thankful. 1-800-661-7746 ext 300N. 8. Consumers have easier access to information about real estate. (CAL*SCAN) Since the advent of the Internet, consumers have had direct access to 115)ESTATE/GARAGE/ significant information about agents, property values, mortgages, insur- YARD SALES ance, real estate law, even the Multiple Listing Service. RAIN OR SHINE! Call Bar- The amount of information continues to multiply. Now it is more bara 925-243-8000 or go to important than ever that consumers consider carefully the source of all www.independentnews. that “information.” com before 8am Tuesdays Every blogger on the Internet is not knowledgeable. Everyone with a to get your ad in for the next edition. web presence is not scrupulous. Some of your Facebook “friends” may be looking to sell you a bridge. 118) FREE/GIVEAWAY Caveat emptor as the saying goes – be wary and check your sourc- GOT OLD JUNK es. FREE/GIVEAWAY The Department of Real Estate (www.dre.ca.us.gov) and the Califor- SECTION nia Association of Realtors (www.car.org) both offer valuable, accurate Call 925 243-8000 Barbara and trustworthy consumer information. 125)HOUSEHOLD GOODS 9. The future of mortgages is more secure. Place your household items Another thing consumers have to be grateful for – although it may here for sale. Call not seem like it – is that it is harder to obtain financing than they used 925 243-8000 or to be. go on-line at “Our financial crisis started one lousy mortgage at a time,” Elizabeth www.independentnews. Warren told Rolling Stone magazine in an interview earlier this year. com Also you can pay by Now Warren is heading up a new Consumer Financial Protection Credit Card for Classified and Display Ads. Bureau that will, among other things, help protect consumers from dangerous and misleading mortgages. 127) LOST/FOUND Financial institutions and the economy also are jeopardized by lax LOST or FOUND AN ITEM lending standards. “There is way less risk in the mortgage market today, FREE SECTION which will eventually put a bottom on the risk for lenders,” said Linda Call Barbara 925 243-8000 Grassi, broker with First Priority Mortgage. While today’s super-tight restrictions may relax, Grassi does not see a return to the era of “anything goes.” “Everything is documented thoroughly. We have real underwriting guidelines again,” Grassi explained. “Loans are more in line with what people actually can qualify for. It’s almost impossible to commit fraud. We’re getting back to old-fashioned guidelines – back to like it was in the late ‘80s.” And that, she says, will further stabilize both the housing industry and the economy at large. 10. We get to live in this vibrant community, in this amazing state, in our wonderful country. That’s a lot to be grateful for! Cher Wollard is a Realtor with Prudential California Realty, Livermore.

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PAGE 12 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Communities Planning Holiday Festivities The City of Pleasanton will and dine in historic Downtown Oak Tree. host the Annual Hometown Pleasanton after staking out their From 5:15-6:15pm, gather at Holiday Celebration on Satur- viewing turf. the tree for holiday refreshments day, December 4, from 5:00 In the event of rain, a parade and music and sing along with the to 7:30 p.m. along Main Street cancellation telephone hotline San Ramon Valley High School in downtown Pleasanton. The will be implemented and up- Chorus under the direction of centerpiece of this free event is dated each hour after 2:30 p.m. Ken Abrams. Then, from 6:15- a parade followed by the lighting on parade day, December 4. The 6:30 the ceremonial lighting of of a holiday tree in front of the Cancellation Information Phone the tree by Father Christmas Museum on Main. Line is (925) 931-5352. and Snow Angel will occur. Fi- The parade always kicks off nally, from 6:30-8:30 the magic with one of Pleasanton’s award- The Livermore Holiday continues with holiday music, winning high school marching Sights and Sounds Parade entertainment and refreshments bands from either Amador Valley marches off at 6 p.m. on Dec. located at various businesses High School or Foothill High 4 traveling from M Street to throughout downtown Danville. School. The band is followed by McLeod St. Please contact Martha Hu- dozens of holiday inspired entries The parade will be followed sak, Event Coordinator for the including Pleasanton’s own Bal- by the annual tree lighting cer- Danville Area Chamber of Com- loon Platoon, the Pleasanton City emony of “Bruce Sprucetree” merce, at 925-837-4400 x14 for Council, hundreds of Cub Scouts at the corner of First St. and So. more information. and Brownies, local car clubs and Livermore Ave. dog clubs, and much more. Special guest will be Santa The tree lighting ceremony Claus. San Ramon/Bishop Ranch will take place immediately fol- For more information call Tree Lighting will take place lowing the parade. There will be Livermore Downtown Inc. at Thurs., Dec. 2 from 5:30 to 7:30 a special appearance by Santa (925) 373-1795. p.m. at Bishop Ranch 1. Claus. The mayor will lead the Photo - Doug Jorgensen Live music will be provided countdown to the tree lighting. The Dublin 27th Annual The Balloon Platoon is a regular entry in Pleasanton's holiday parade. by local school choirs. There There will be a community sing- Holiday Tree Lighting Cer- will be sleigh rides and photo along. emony will be held Thurs., Dec. and caroling. Cookies and hot out for a special visitor from the The Danville 34th Annual opportunities with Cinderella and Main Street will close to 2 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the chocolate will be served. The North Pole. Lighting of the Old Oak Tree her carriage. A variety of vendors vehicular traffic at 4:00 p.m. on fountain plaza area of the Civic Dublin Unified Elementary Please bring a new or gently will take place the day after will be selling refreshments. Saturday, December 4. Parade Center. School Choir will perform as used warm coat. Call (925) 556- Thanksgiving, Friday, November One Warm Coat and the Con- viewers are encouraged to shop There will be entertainment those in attendance keep a look- 4500 for more information. 26, 2010, from 5:15-8:30 pm tra Costa food bank will also be along Diablo Road near the Old on hand accepting donations. Christmas Display Grand Opening Set for Dec. 3 The biggest holiday display in at shelters, hospitals, and emer- questions. Just look for anyone Livermore is set to open on Fri- gency services. Find out more wearing a red “Casa del Pomba” day, December 3 at 6:30 pm. This about Good News Bears www. ball cap or jacket. holiday tradition is now in its 28 goodnewsbears.org Deacon Dave opens his yard year. The front yard of Deacon Last year, the theme was from the opening on December Dave Rezendes’s home at 352 “Christmas Is….”. Visitors en- 3 until January 1. The hours are Hillcrest Ave in Livermore, Casa tered the driveway under an 6 pm to 9:30 pm Sunday through del Pomba, is visited by tens of 18’ revolving tree of lights. Thursday, and from 6 pm until thousands of guests each year. Throughout the display, volun- 10:30 pm Friday and Saturday. The theme each year changes. teers created vignettes showing The gates may be closed during It is always kept a secret until what Christmas means to them. inclement weather, although opening night ceremonies. On The first scene depicted a fam- every effort is made to leave the December 3, the home and yard ily in the living room watching lights glowing. There is no ad- will be dark as a candlelight classic holiday cartoons such as mission charge. All the donations procession makes its way down Frosty the Snowman. A frazzled collected in the coin toss, ponds, the blocked off street. Members husband and wife shopped in and at the door are for Santa’s of the community are welcome another scene. Ice skaters rotated Secret Service. This program to join the procession, which in one corner of the yard, while has provided a visiting Santa, will feature the St. Michael’s nearby, the reason for the season, carolers, and gifts to area nursing choir leading Deacon Dave to the birth of Christ, was shown in homes, shelters, and hospitals for his home. The Handbell Choir the manger. Guests were invited over 50 years. from Asbury United Methodist to share what Christmas meant Visit www.casadelpomba. Church will also perform. There to them and the responses were com for more information on the is a blessing of the lights, the posted in the entry to share with display, Santa’s Secret Service, Photo - Doug Jorgensen theme is announced, and the all. and Deacon Dave’s family his- A candlelight procession is lights are turned on. At that time, More and more LED lights tory. Unforgettable Memories guests are invited to walk through are added each year. As usual, is providing the opening night held before the lights are the yard. each light in the yard is a prayer sound system; and Festo the entry turned on at Deacon Dave's Members of the non-profit for peace, and for the safety of automation, Good News Bears home. group Good News Bears will our military. Approximately 30 the refreshments. help Deacon celebrate his special volunteers work hard throughout Take East Avenue to Hillcrest, night by serving refreshments. the year to put on the display. and then follow the glow! It’s Visitors wishing to support the They are from many faiths, and worth the trip and sure to make group are invited to bring a new welcome guests of all faithsThe your season bright. Check out stuffed animal or cash donation crew members love to share the the webcam at www.casadel- to help them meet the ever-in- spirit of the holidays, and are pomba.com/webcam.htm. creasing need for “stuffed love” often on hand to answer any 'Best' Holiday Party Raises Funds for Local Nonprofits The Valley Real Estate Net- and $25 at the door. The event Group handled the public rela- work (VREN) 4th Annual Helping begins at 6 p.m. and goes until tions, www.stonegroupinc.com; Hearts Holiday Party is planned 10 p.m. and Leon Gundersen of Select for Wednesday, December 8 at “We have raised about Imaging in Dublin printed the the Marriott in Pleasanton. $184,000 for local charities since tickets. This annual event is designed we began this event in 2007 and Don Cruz, Chris Scovill and to raise funds for several Tri- we want to keep giving back to David Stark will entertain guests Valley agencies including Hope the community,” Dronkers said. with the evening’s music. The Hospice, Ryan Comer Cancer Several local businesses have facility is provided by the Pleas- Resource Center at ValleyCare, donated time and resources to anton Marriott Hotel and The Open Heart Kitchen, the Valley make this event happen this Tri-Valley Community Founda- Humane Society and AXIS Com- year too. tion is supporting the event with munity Health. Coordinating the event this matching funds. Best of all, for every dollar year are: Roy Dronkers, of To purchase a ticket, visit the raised from the event, the Tri- Keller Williams Realty, website at www.vrenholidayp- Valley Community Foundation www.dronkers.com; Dave arty.com will match the funds two to one. Dronkers of Dronkers Bev- For more information, contact According to Roy Dronkers, erage Solutions, www.bevex- Wendy Tannenbaum at 925-548- vice president of VREN, the cel.com; and Marcia Hoffman 1980 or wendy@diversifiedmg. event is “the best holiday party of Hoffman Consulting, com or Cathy Dean at 925-200- in the Tri-Valley.” Guests are [email protected]. 4130 or cdeanhomes@comcast. treated to fabulous appetizers, a Charles Donaldson of 360 net DJ and a live band, drawings to Web Studios created the website, The Marriott is located at win great prizes and networking www.360webstudios.com; Marla 111950 Dublin Canyon Road, with friends and business as- Tipton of Tipton Designs created Pleasanton, CA, 94588. To con- sociates. the flyers, e-blasts and tickets, tact the Marriott, call 925-847- The cost for the event is $20 www.tiptondesigns.com; and 6000 or visit www.marriott.com for an advance ticket purchase Kathleen Butler of The Stone

Photo - Doug Jorgensen GourmetWorks in downtown Pleasanton was all spruced up for the holidays. Visitors stopped by to see the windows during the Magical Holiday Evening last week. THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION II THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Art, Community, & Education

Valley Dance Theatre to Host Nonprofits for 'Nutcracker' Performance

A Chinese dragon and Taeko drummers will highlight this year’s “The Nutcracker” by Valley Dance Theatre.

Members of major Tri-valley 2400 First Street in Livermore. the Bay Area, drawing audiences complements Valley Dance The- families. School Performances non-profit organizations will be Tri-Valley nonprofit organiza- of more than 7,000 annually. atre’s other outreach activities are also offered at reduced rates treated this year to a free perfor- tions, such as Shepherd’s Gate, Highlighted this year by Taeko such as free local performances to local schools. “It is part of our mance of Valley Dance Theatre’s Dublin Senior Center, Easter Seals drummers and a large Chinese and scholarship opportunities that tradition.” annual full-length production of Bay Area, Valley Humane Society, Dragon, the public performances promote dance appreciation in the This year, a total of eight The the Tchaikovsky’s classic The Hope Hospice, The Taylor Family will be accompanied live by the Tri-Valley. Nutcracker performances will be Nutcracker. Foundation and Alameda County Livermore-Amador Symphony pit “It is a worthwhile cause,” says open to the general public. Evening The special Community Per- Food Bank, will be given free tick- orchestra. Cantabella Children’s Karin Bunnell, Board President performances will take place De- formance is made possible by ets to the mid-week performance of Chorus and Tri-Valley Repertory of the Valley Dance Theatre and a cember 11, 17, 18 and 19, 2010 at corporate, family and individual the 2010 Nutcracker. Theatre’s Broadway Chorus will resident of Pleasanton, explaining 7:00 p.m. Matinee performances sponsors. The production will take Valley Dance Theatre’s profes- add vocal artistry to selected per- that the Community Performance will be on December 11, 12, 18, place on Wednesday, December sionally staged production of The formances. is made possible through the and 19, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. 15, 2010 at the Bankhead Theater, Nutcracker is the second largest n The Community Performance support of local corporation and (continued on page 3) 2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Art & Entertainment Annual Arts Recognition Program to Be Held at the Firehouse Arts Center The Pleasanton PTA Council creatively and to receive positive feels very strongly that the arts are phy, visual arts, literature, musical the Pleasanton PTA Council for will hold its eighth annual Reflec- recognition for original works of an important part of our children’s composition, dance choreography, recognition and will be showcased tions Arts Recognition Program on art inspired by this year’s theme, education, but budget cuts make and film/video production. More on December 1st. Entries advanc- Wednesday, December 1, 2010, “Together We Can…” it increasingly difficult to include than 310 young artists from eight ing to the next level, Peralta PTA at the new Firehouse Arts Center “Pleasanton PTA Council is any art in the curriculum. Our Pleasanton schools submitted District, will be announced at this in Pleasanton. The reception and very excited to be having our an- hope is that holding the ceremony entries for this year’s program to event. showcase will begin at 6:30pm nual Reflections Arts Recognition at the Firehouse Arts Center will their local PTA or PTSA sponsored This is a free event and the with the ceremony to follow at Program at the Firehouse Arts Cen- help to increase community aware- program. community is invited to attend. 7pm. ter this year,” said Jodie Vashistha, ness of the importance of arts Reflections Committees at each For more information or to RSVP The National PTA Reflections Pleasanton PTA Council President. education.” school identified students in each to the event, please contact Diane Program is an arts recognition “We are grateful to our sponsor Local students, from Kindergar- category and age level to represent Van Wagner at vanwagners@ and achievement program for Bay Area Academy of Music for ten through 12th grade, entered their their school at the Council level. comcast.net. Attendance capacity students. It provides opportunities helping to make that possible. PTA work in six categories: photogra- Over 60 entries were submitted to is limited to 220. for students to express themselves New Art Studios Opening at Art Crawl The Bothwell Arts Center’s Livermore’s lively downtown. Panama Red Coffee Company, Studios will host its first annual mance space to those in all walks newly created Downtown Art Art Crawl offers an evening of corner of 1st and K Streets; and Holiday Art Deals event offering of art, and is managed by Linda Studios announces its soft opening art in a dozen locations in down- the Bothwell Arts Center’s new deals on artworks, secondhand art Ryan, director of ArtWalk through on Friday, November 26 during town Livermore. Some locations Downtown Art Studios at 62 So. supplies and more, from 11-4pm. the Bothwell and coordinator of Art Crawl from 6-9pm. With open offer wine tasting or refreshments L Street. The Bothwell Arts Center is a Art Crawls through her own gal- and semi-private working space, as well. Look for Art Crawl maps The new studios will also be project of the Livermore Valley lery, Ryan Fine Art. the new studios will offer local at the following locations: Ryan accessible to the public through an Performing Arts Center, a not-for- Ryan can be contacted at lry- visual artists affordable creative Fine Art Gallery & It’s All About Open Studios on Second Saturdays profit corporation, dedicated to [email protected] space in easy walking distance Dancing, 171 South J Street; program. On the December 11, providing inexpensive working, or at 925-447-2787. to coffee shops and boutiques in Second Saturday, Downtown Art rehearsal, classroom and perfor-

Faith Alpher Brings One Woman Show to Bankhead; Appears on Oprah Winfrey Network

Area residents can enjoy a who have encouraged me, heard the Oprah Winfrey Network on double dose of Faith in January my heart, wiped my tears and kept Saturday, January 1 at 4:00 p.m. with two shows featuring Faith me laughing.” ET/PT. . Faith Alpher is one of Alpher. Currently, Faith is a DJ for those stories. Go to http://press. Faith Alpher will present her KKIQ radio. discovery.com/us/own/programs/ one woman show at the Bankhead Following the show at the searching/ for a photo of Faith. Theater in Livermore on Sun., Jan. Bankhead, there will be an ‘After A screening party at the Vine 9 at 2 p.m. Party’ for all at Casa Orozco in Cinema in Livermore is planned “Through the Eyes of Faith,” downtown Livermore. for 3pm. Families are invited is a celebration of diversity. In the Faith’s husband Daniel Alpher to come together and watch the show Alpher portrays over 20 char- is directing the show. Faith has show. acters including a Jewish mother, written, produced and will perform According to the Oprah Win- Catholic nun and a Black hip hop the show. frey website, “Searching For...” is dancer in an autobiographical Tickets for the Jan. 9 show are a docu-series following the real- journey. available at www.livermoreper- life work of Pam Slaton, a Profes- “My show is about never giv- formingarts.com. The Bankhead sional Investigative Genealogist, ing up, never giving in,” declared Theater is located at 2400 First St., stay-at-home mom and New Jersey Faith. “My life has been filled Livermore. housewife. with people who have shaped my "Viewers are in for an intensely TELEVISION APPEARANCE journey to be what it is today and FAITH ALPHER personal and emotional ride as where it is heading tomorrow.” In May Faith filmed for the cameras follow Pam and her Faith is a native of Teaneck, ality, wife and mother of three. my wedding really like an urban Oprah Winfrey Network, (OWN). clients through the step-by-step New Jersey. “I love performing and feel- United Nations conference? Jew- The show is called “Searching journey of “Searching For” a lost She is a professionally trained ing what the audience is feeling. ish dancing? Irish blessing and a for…”, a documentary style loved one. Each searcher’s story is actress, comedian, master of cer- I look back on my life and thing, soul train line?” she asked, adding, show. vastly different and the outcomes emonies/host, singer, radio person- gee, did that really happen? Was “My show is dedicated to those A sneak peek will be aired on are highly unpredictable and emo- tionally charged."

Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 3 Symphony Opens 48th Season with All Beethoven Program The Livermore-Amador Sym- Stephen Harrison. The piece is un- phony opens its 48th season with usual because it places three solo “Three Cheers For Beethoven!” instruments with full orchestra, on Saturday, December 4, 2010, instead of just one. at 8pm at the Bankhead Theater The Bankhead Theater is locat- in downtown Livermore. ed at 2400 First St., Livermore. The all-Beethoven program A pre-concert talk by Dr. Arthur features three inspiring works: Barnes, LAS Music Director, and Egmont Overture, Concerto for the soloists, Anthony Doheny, Violin, Cello, and Piano and the Stephen Harrison, and Marilyn Symphony No. 5. Thompson, begins at 7 pm. The Egmont Overture will tell Tickets are adults $22-$28; se- an emotional story of a martyr’s niors $20-$26, youth $10. Tickets death. The “Triple Concerto” will offer audiences the unusual op- are available through the Bankhead portunity to hear three instrumental Theater. Call (925) 373-6800, or soloists – violin, cello and piano – online at www.bankheadtheater. play together in a rarely performed org. Ticket office hours are Tues- Beethoven composition. day through Saturday, noon to The Livermore-Amador 6pm, and on performance days, Symphony’s performance of two hours prior to show. Beethoven’s Triple Concerto will More information about the feature three soloists: Anthony symphony is available at www.li- Doheny, Marilyn Thompson, and vamsymph.org or by calling (925) 373-6824. Soloists are Anthony Doheny, Marilyn Thompson, and Stephen Harrison. Sneak Preview of 'Princess and the Pea' Pleasanton’s Civic Arts Stage youth cast members, all of whom performed December 10-12 and Company, in collaboration with the are drawn from the Pleasanton 15-19. For more information or San Francisco Shakespeare Festi- community. Afterwards the cast, to purchase tickets, visit www. val, invites the public to the Pleas- along with the Costume and Set civicartstickets.org or call the anton Public Library on Sat., Dec. Designers, will discuss the play Amador Theater box office at (925) 4 for a preview of their upcoming and hold a question-and-answer 931-3444. Amador Theater production of The period with the audience. For information on other li- Princess and the Pea. This free program is best suited brary activities and events, see the library website at www. Based on the famous fairy tale for children ages 5 and older. No by Hans Christian Andersen, this ci.pleasanton.ca.us/library/pro- registration is required. grams-and-events.html, or call the 11:00 a.m. program will feature The full stage production of Children’s Desk at (925) 931-3400 scenes from the play performed by The Princess and the Pea will be extension 8.

NUTCRACKER (continued from front page) All seats to The Nutcracker are reserved. Tickets are $33, $27 and $24 for adults and $18 for students 17 years and younger. They may be purchased online at www. bankheadtheater.org or by phone at 925-373-6800. Tickets may also be purchased in person at the theater box office, 2400 First St., Livermore, Tuesday-Saturday, 12 noon-6:00 p.m., and for two hours prior to show time. More information is available www.valleydancetheatre.com. Valley Dance Theatre brings full-length repertory classical ballet and contemporary dance productions to the East Bay Area. For thirty years, the company has thrilled audiences with its full-length performances of Tchai- kovsky’s The Nutcracker featuring costumes crafted by professional, award-winning designers and accompanied by the Livermore- Amador Symphony. A second Aaron Daly and Charlotte Kallerman perform in Valley Dance production is presented in the Theatre’s 2009 production of “The Nutcracker.” summer.

4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Art & Entertainment

Stillwaters by Linda Sargent Beach Local Artist in Exhibit Paintings by Linda Sargent Beach of Livermore are on exhibit at a Pictured are Robert Lappa (left) and Lawrence show at her alma mater, Wilson College in Chambersburg, Pa. Kohl (above). Beach’s paintings are being exhibited at Wilson’s Bogigian Gallery through Dec. 3. They are part of a two-woman show, Alumnae Artist Showcase, also featuring Wilson alumna, Libby Manchester Gilpatric, of Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Beach is an active board member of the Livermore Art Association Pacific Chamber Symphony and Pleasanton Art League and an associate member of the Pastel Soci- ety of the West Coast and the Sierra Pastel Society. Her work has been exhibited in group and juried shows in the San Francisco Bay Area. To Perform 'Messiah' Beach’s current work is comprised of landscapes that depict a sense of “Whether I was in the body or ately recognized as a masterpiece, adheres closely to the original distance and evoke a mood of quiet contemplation. Beach says, “I am as out of my body when I wrote it I and was an instant success. version of 1742. The instrumental eager to capture the warmth of a color-washed setting sun on a western know not.” That’s what Handel is In addition to being an enor- forces are modest, which is consis- sky, as the myriad of reflections in the cool waters of New England. This reputed to have said when asked mous musical achievement, the tent with 18th century practice. But variety of surroundings and the perspectives gained from my career as an art educator continues to nourish and challenge my creativity.” about the experience of writing the Messiah was a great humanistic the chorus, as in Handel’s time, is Beach is a native of Cohasset, Maine, and received a bachelor’s degree Messiah. Whatever the experience success. greatly expanded beyond what was from Wilson in 1971 before earning a master’s degree in art education actually was like, it must have been Originally commissioned for customary in the 18th century. from Central Connecticut State University. She has studied a wide variety extraordinary. The entire 260-page a benefit performance for a Dub- There will be a special recep- of media in locations such as Canyon Road in Santa Fe and the School work, including orchestration, was lin charity, it was subsequently tion in the lobby during the inter- of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. written in only 24 days. performed over thirty more times mission, with entertainment pro- The art exhibit is being presented by Wilson’s Department of Fine On December 3, the Pacific with Handel himself conduct- vided by the Cantabella Children's Arts and Dance. Chamber Symphony, conducted ing, with the proceeds going to Chorus Honors Choir. by Lawrence Kohl, will present a foundling hospital. One writer Tickets are $39/$34/$29 for Handel’s Messiah in the Bankhead stated that, ”Perhaps the works of adults, and $7 for students, and Theater in Livermore. Robert no other composer have so largely can be purchased by phone at Lappa is directing the chorus in contributed to the relief of human 925.583.2310 or online at www. preparation for the performance. suffering.” livermoreperformingarts.org/cal- The Messiah was first per- The Messiah is now one of the endar. formed as part of a series of most widely performed works in The Bankhead Theater is lo- programs presented between De- all of musical literature. cated at 2400 First St. in downtown cember of 1741 and March of 1742 The Pacific Chamber Sympho- Livermore. in Dublin, Ireland. It was immedi- ny’s interpretation of the Messiah

Chabot Wind Symphony Concert and CD Release Scheduled Audiences are invited to enjoy 700 Community Student Services the School of the Arts Office, (510) a symphony performance and take Center directly after the concert. 723-6829. Local photographer Sue Evans has created a 4 X 6" desktop calendar for 2011 that music home with them, too, at Admission to the concert and The concert will feature the showcases the beauty of the entire Tri-Valley area. The calendar is in a clear acrylic Chabot College’s Wind Symphony party is $20, which includes VIP Wind Ensemble and Wind Sym- case that opens and serves as the stand for the images. There are 12 individual Concert and CD release celebra- concert seating, a free “Live in phony performing works by C.L. “pages” so you simply slip the image to the back as the months progress. A tion on Wednesday, Dec. 1. Concert” CD, and wine, coffee, Barnhouse, David Gillingham, portion of the proceeds will be donated to help Open Heart Kitchen in Livermore. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and desserts served at the party. Percy Grainger, John Mackey, Jim The calendars are available for $9.75 each. For business gifts the calendars can It will take place in the Reed L. General admission for the concert Territo, and Frank Ticheli. be customized with logos; a discount is available on orders of 100 and over. Buffington Visual and Perform- only is $10. Chabot College is located at They can be purchased through the website www.PhotographyBySueEvans. ing Arts Center. To celebrate the Tickets are available at the door 25555 Hesperian Boulevard in com or at The Berry Patch in downtown Pleasanton. For information, email symphony’s first CD, a release and through the Chabot College Hayward. [email protected] or call 925-989-4113. party will be held in the Building Foundation, (510) 723-6936, and Community THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 5

New Sycamore Grove Calendar Now Available The 2011 Sycamore Grove Park calendar showcases some of the unique beauty of this regional park. Pictured are Judy Irwin, Joyce Nuss, Bonnie Schmidt, Anita Thompson, Amelia Benko, Courtney Created by the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District (LARPD) Michels, Delma Kline, Linda Draghi, Charlotte Newman, and Chris Wilson. park ranger staff, the first calendars printed were for 2009. The 2011 calendar features new glossy color photos taken throughout the 774-acre park. All photos were taken by LARPD Park Rangers Amy Wolitzer and Holiday Home Tour Helps Glen Florey. The LARPD Foundation has supported production of the calendar in the past. Monthly photos include the almond orchard in bloom, colorful wild- flowers, local wildlife and the golden hills in the upper portion of the Support Soroptimist Projects park. The calendar also indicates Park District happenings and times the Soroptimist International of the nursery, there will be an op- Tickets are available at Proc- park is open throughout the year. Livermore will host the organiza- portunity to win baskets, flowers, tor’s in downtown Livermore, The calendars are on sale now. Proceeds will help benefit open space tion’s 27th annual Holiday Home tree decorated with cash, etc. Alden Lane Nursery and from any programs and facilities. Tour on Sunday, Dec 5. 11 a.m. Tickets are $25, which is tax Soroptimist member. Calendars are $10 each or $6 when purchased along with an annual to 3 p.m. deductible. Cash or check only. Tickets may also be purchased Sycamore Grove parking pass. Calendars can be purchased at the Rob- Five homes will be decorated Proceeds benefit women and the day of the tour. ert Livermore Community Center, 4444 East Ave., or by mail or phone for the holidays. children though local projects and For information, call 449-4079 at 925-373-5700 (plus a $3 shipping fee). Order forms and a calendar The tour begins by obtaining a charities. or 443-5450. preview can be found online at www.larpd.dst.ca.us. map at Alden Lane Nursery, 981 Alden Lane, Livermore. While at Holiday Home Tour- Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland Valley Humane Society pres- purchase tickets to the Holiday ents Walkin’ in a Winter Wonder- Home Tour, contact Valley Hu- land, a Holiday Home Tour on mane Society at (925) 426-8656 Sunday, December 5, 2010 from or www.valleyhumane.org. Valley 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Humane Society is located at 3670 Pleasanton. Nevada Street, Pleasanton and is There will be a home tour, open Tuesday through Saturday, unique shopping opportunities, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. treats and live music. Tickets are Tickets can also be purchased $35 per person. Proceeds go to at Towne Center Books, Murphy’s support the programs of Valley Paw and The Wine Steward in Humane Society, a nonprofit ani- downtown Pleasanton. Tickets mal rescue organization. will be available for purchase Each of the featured homes on the day of the event at 4444 First the tour is unique and is located Street. near downtown Pleasanton. The Valley Humane Society is an tour begins at 4444 First Street, animal welfare organization advo- across from Wayside Park. Park cating responsible pet ownership. and stroll down the street, stopping It is the only no-kill facility in the to enjoy a peek into some of Pleas- area to accept animals by private anton’s most beautiful homes, all surrender. Valley Humane Society Christmas Concert at Our Savior - Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, 1385 South Livermore Avenue, decked out for the holidays. Car- is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organiza- Livermore, will present “Gentle Stranger in the Manger,” a concert of Advent and Christmas music, olers, raffle prizes, refreshments, tion that receives no government on Sunday, December 5, at 4:00 pm. in the sanctuary. The concert is a gift to the community. It will and unique shopping opportunities funds, tax dollars, or money from feature Our Savior’s choirs, handbell and brass ensembles, strings and woodwinds, and contemporary complete the festivities. national humane organizations. ensemble. In addition, there will be several sing-along carols with organ, brass, timpani and bells. For more information and to 6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Education Roddy Sisters Learn French Through Immersion Exchange Program By Patricia Koning school for the first time in her For the Roddy family, home- life. Karen made the decision schooling is about anything but to homeschool before Hannah staying home. To study volca- was born. “I’d never even heard noes, Karen Roddy took her three of homeschooling. As I was re- daughters— Hannah, Morgan, searching options, it just made and Rachel —on a road trip to sense,” she explains. “We take an Mt. Lassen, Crater Lake, and Mt. eclectic approach. I have not tried St. Helen's. When the girls were to recreate school at home, but at studying Italian civilization and the same time, we’re very focused culture, the family spent three on academics. We use a variety of months in Italy. resources, including tutors.” So when it came time to learn Last year, she founded the French, the natural choice was to nonprofit Outstanding Academic send the girls to France. “I took Opportunities (www.oaopp.com) two years of French in high school. to provide high school and middle I don’t remember much,” said school course work to Bay Area Karen. “I want them to have a true homeschooling families. immersion experience. My goal is When Rachel travels to France, to have a fluent child at the end.” she’ll also attend school with Ro- After researching exchange mane. “I’m a little nervous, but programs, she found En Famille, a I’m pretty sure it will be okay,” French organization that arranges she stated. six-month linguistic and cultural With Romane in the family, exchanges for young children. Karen has continued her expe- En Famille’s program appealed riential style of teaching, which to Karen because of the focus on has been especially effective in language immersion. overcoming the language barrier. After learning about En Famille To study the California Gold Rush, last June and attending an informa- she took the girls to gold country tion meeting in San Luis Obispo, Rachel Roddy and her exchange sister Romane on a trip to Alcatraz. for some hands-on learning. Ro- Karen moved quickly to enroll mane had a hard time understand- Hannah, who is 14, in the program. The En Famille program has ing how ice could carve rocks, En Famille focuses on 9 to 11 year strict rules for the exchange. Dur- rather than rocks carving ice, until olds; at 15 children usually age ing the first week, the exchange she saw Yosemite’s Half-Dome in out of the program. According to family can speak with the visiting person. the En Famille website, “young child in his or her native language. Weather permitting, the Roddys children adapt and integrate more In the second week, the visiting plan to take Romane to the Grand easily than adolescents. They soak child can speak in his or her native Canyon in December to fulfill her up and accept their second culture language. However, the host fam- last wish of a place she’d like to see without the slightest difficulty.” ily must speak only in the target before returning to France. First, families in two different language. By the third week, all Thirteen-year-old Morgan’s countries are matched with each communication is in the target exchange hasn’t been planned other. En Famille places exchanges language. yet. However, Karen is hoping she in Germany, France, Ireland, Brit- The visiting children are limited can start in February so all three ain, Spain, Canada, and the United to a 30-minute phone call home girls can finish the program by States. The children are usually the and one letter each week. They early 2012. She plans to have the same gender, within 12 months of are not allowed any electronic girls work with native speakers to each other in age, and share com- communication with home—so no maintain their French fluency at mon interests. email, facebook, blogs, or anything home. Longer term, she hopes the The two children become ex- else. “It seems pretty tough, but family can spend a year in France change siblings for 12 months, the focus is on achieving fluency On a Bordeaux vacation, Hannah Roddy and her exchange sister after Morgan and Hannah finish spending six months in each coun- in six months,” says Karen. “It re- Camille climbed the Dune du Pyla, the largest sand dune in high school. try. In August, Hannah traveled to ally only works if the immersion En Famille is currently seeking France to live with her exchange is complete.” families in the United States to par- family and Romane, 10-year-old When Romane arrived, no one lish, with a few stumbles over Karen. “We wouldn’t have con- ticipate in exchanges with French, Rachel’s exchange sister, traveled in the Roddy family spoke much vocabulary. “Sometimes, there are sidered this program if they were German, and Spanish families. from France to Livermore to live French so following the immersion words I just can’t remember,” she not totally enthusiastic. Hannah For more information, visit www. with the Roddy family. rules was not difficult. A family explained. “Like ‘tired,’ I think told me she really wanted to learn enfamille.com. To see Rachel In February, Hannah will return friend fluent in French met with they had to tell me the word ‘tired’ French and that she could survive and Romane’s blog about their home with her exchange sister Romane during that first week a hundred times in one day.” anything for six months. Now she’s exchange, visit http://romane-et- Camille for the second half of to talk about any issues. Romane The Roddy girls have embraced having the time of her life—she’s rachel.over-blog.com (in French). their exchange. That same month, knew very little English, as she’d the challenge of living in a foreign learned to windsurf and has trav- To see Hannah and Camille’s blog, Rachel and Romane will travel to been studying German in school. country. “They’ve done hard things eled to so many great places.” visit http://camilleandhannah. France to complete their exchange Three months into the exchange, in their lives, like swimming from One of the biggest adjustments wordpress.com. Blogs from other year. she converses quite easily in Eng- Alcatraz to San Francisco,” said for Hannah is attending a regular exchanges can be found on En Famille’s website. Community & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 7 Lab Plays Host to MESA Program The Lawrence Livermore Na- tional Laboratory kicked off Na- tive American Heritage month in November by hosting students from the Mathematics, Engineer- ing and Science Achievement (MESA) program. MESA is a nationally recog- nized, innovative program that en- courages educationally disadvan- taged students to prepare for and graduate from a four-year college or university with a math-based degree in areas such as engineer- ing, the sciences, computer science and mathematics. MESA partners with all segments of California higher education as well as K-12 institutions. Through MESA, students de- velop academic and leadership skills, increase educational perfor- mance and gain confidence in their ability to compete professionally. MESA has particular interest in students from those groups with the lowest numbers advancing to four-year and graduate level programs. This year’s visitors of MESA were from the Community College Engineering program. Students from the Community College Engineering program of MESA (Mathematics, Engineering and Science Achievement) recently “It is wonderful to see such visited the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. bright students coming from the MESA program and visiting the and the National Atmospheric Re- Pacific, Fresno State University, for the Laboratory’s science and MESA state wide science directors Laboratory,” Darlene Yazzie, lease Advisory Center. They also University of California, San Jose engineering summer positions” at their annual meeting. AIAG Chair, said. “We were had spoke with a panel of scientist State University, Sonoma State said Steve Grey, LLNL’s American The MESA visit was hosted honored to have them onsite as and engineers about science at the University, and the University of Indian Program manager. by the LLNL Director’s Office of we kicked off Native American Laboratory. California Santa Cruz. Each year MESA hosts a lead- Strategic Diversity and the Lab’s heritage month.” The visiting undergraduate “This is the second year we ership conference in the Bay American Indian Activity Group This year the engineering stu- students are currently majoring in have brought MESA students to Area and the Laboratory has (AAIG). dents had a chance to visit the Na- engineering or science, and hail the Laboratory. We are hoping this been pleased to participate. This For more information about tional Ignition Facility, the Center from colleges throughout Califor- year that many of them will apply year Laboratory staff addressed a MESA, go to the Web at http:// for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry nia, including University of the www.ucop.edu/mesa/about/index.

Modern Twist to Classic Holiday Dickens' Tale Take the Charles Dickens’ Scroogie’s ghosts and business ate choreographer; Cat Howser, adults and two to three children). Campus parking is $2 per hour holiday classic, set the story in partner have been morphed into scenery; Dannia Ciolo, costumes; Purchase tickets at the University at meters, or $5 per day, per vehicle 2010’s cyber-crazed world, bring pop images that gently remind and Alena Samoray, lighting. The Bookstore. Or make reservations from 5 p.m. Friday to midnight on a band of musical and spiritual us of the true meaning of the cast includes Joe Loper, Kristian at http://class.csueastbay.edu/the- Sunday, payable at kiosk machines creatures, spice with imaginative season. Stovall, Salvador Valladolid, Di- atre/Ticket_Reservations.php or that take dollars and quarters. reggae rappin,’ rock n’ roll and “I hope the new script and ana Rais, Nick Vincent, Kyung H. by calling (510) 885-3118. hiphop, and you have “Scroogie,” holiday message will make the Ji, Sami Jo Guida, Marie Ibarra, Cal State East Bay’s December audience aware that we are all Keri Kudrov, Josh Fellion, Hen- family production. the creators of our communi- drix Erhahon, Cynthia Kihn and Performances are set for 8 p.m. ties,” said Fajilan. “We are the Sara Prince. Dec. 10, and 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 11 ones who can proactively change As in past years, attendees are in the University Theatre, 25800 our circumstances when we are encouraged to bring donations of Carlos Bee Blvd., Hayward. guided by empathy, kindness and non-perishable food items to do- Students who participated in compassion. Of course, we all nate to the Alameda Food Drive. the summertime “Dramatic Activi- need a little help, so let’s engage Admission is $15 for adults; ties for Children” class wrote the all social participants.” $10 for youth (13-18), seniors outline for the script that theatre Contributing to the perfor- (55+) and alumni; and $5 for faculty A. Fajilan and Darryl V. mance are Sierra Dee, musical CSUEB students and children (3- Jones have refined into a holiday associate; Amy La Faille, associ- 13); or $30 for a family (one to two show. 8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Art & Entertainment

Children’s Art Exhibit Works from the Winery, 5700 Greenville Rd., Livermore. Center, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Liver- permanent collection of Paintbrush Information at 449-1871 or www.red- more. Performing Arts Events Line at Diplomacy, an organization that seeks featherwinery.com 925.424.1100 or go to www.laspositascol- to connect the world one paintbrush at a Chris Bradley's Jazz Band, plays at The lege.edu/performingarts time. Promoting peace and understanding Sunol Jazz Cafe (In the Center of Sunol) Advent Christmas Concert, Fri., Dec. through the universal language of art, the the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month 10, 7:30 p.m. Golden Gate Boys Choir organization encourages awareness of 7:30-9:30 p.m. The band features real Jazz and Bell Ringers. St. Michael’s Music international issues through art exchanges from the 1920's, 30's, 40's. Ministry, 458 Maple St., Livermore. and exhibits of works by children ages Blacksmith Square Saturday Concerts, $15 adults, $10 seniors/students, $5 5-18. Harrington Gallery at the Firehouse Thomas Coyne Winery, John Christopher children, $35 family. Tickets email st- Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleas- Cellars, Swirl Tapas Bar and Victorian [email protected] or anton. www.FirehouseArts.org Olive Oil present live music in the Square, call, 447-1585 ext. 18. 3 to 6 p.m. Wine tasting (fee waived Vocal Jazz & Combo Concert, 8 p.m. MEETINGS/CLASSES with purchase), food at menu prices. No Dec. 10. Las Positas College Perform- Figure Drawing Workshop, every Friday outside food or adult beverages. Corner ing Arts Center, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Artists bring their of South Livermore Ave. and Railroad Livermore. Performing Arts Events Line own materials and easels. Open to all art- Ave. downtown Livermore. at 925.424.1100 or go to www.laspositas- ists. Professional artist models (nude). No David Lanz – Pianist, Sat., Nov. 27, 8 p.m. college.edu/performingarts instructor. Students under 18 need written Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Motown Holiday Revue with Top Shelf, parental permission to attend. Cost $20 Ave., Pleasanton. www.firehousearts. Dec. 11, 8 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, per session. At the Bothwell Art Center org 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. 2466 8th St. Livermore. Coffee, tea and Roger McGuinn, acoustic guitar, 7:30 firehousearts.org refreshments are available. Call or email p.m. Sun., Nov. 28. Firehouse Arts Center, Instrumental Jazz Concert, 8 p.m. Dec. Wente Vineyards Estate Winery will be presenting paintings by local Barbara Stanton for more info about the 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. 11. Las Positas College Performing Arts artist Larry Gipson from December 1, through January 25, 2011. workshop, 925-373-9638 - microangelo@ firehousearts.org Center, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Liver- An artist’s reception will be held on December 12 at the tasting earthlink.net. Student Recital, 8 p.m. Dec. 1. Las Positas more. Performing Arts Events Line at Art Critique and Coffee, every Friday, College Performing Arts Center, 000 925.424.1100 or go to www.laspositascol- room, 5565 Tesla Road, Livermore, from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Larry is a 10 a.m. at Border's Cafe, Rose Pavilion, Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. Performing lege.edu/performingarts member of the Tracy, Livermore and Pleasanton Art Leagues. He Tickets and information at Pleasanton. Arts Events Line at 925.424.1100 or go Bay Bells, Sun., Dec. 12, 3:30 p.m. Dublin has shown his work in various locations throughout the Tri-Valley [email protected]. to www.laspositascollege.edu/perform- Senior Center. $10 adults, $5 age 12 and ingarts under, $3 age 5 and under. Bay Bells is and Fremont area. The artist has won numerous awards in juried WINERY EVENTS Pacific Chamber Symphony,concert Fri- one of the nation's longest running hand shows, including purchase awards from the City of Livermore and Holiday Preview, Tamas Estates and Wente day, December 3, 8 p.m., an interpretation bell ensembles and features over 100 City of Tracy. Larry will be showing paintings of local and Yosemite Vineyards, Nov. 26, 27 and 28, 11 a.m. of Handel's Messiah. Chorus and soloists bells and chimes. Sign-up in advance by scenes. There is no admission charge. Plein Aire Painter is shown to 4:30 p.m. Taste special releases, tour including Marnie Brekenridge (soprano), calling (925) 556-4500 or reserve your the winery, browse new holiday merchan- Tom Glenn (tenor), Erin Neff (alto), and seats on-line at www.DublinRecGuide. above. dise. Wente Vineyards Vineyard Tasting Torfel Borsting (bass). Bankhead The- com - refer to Activity # 24454. Tickets Room, 5050 Arroyo Road, Livermore ater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Tickets may also be purchased at the door if 925.456.2405, wentevineyards.com. and information at 925-373-6800, www. ART/PHOTO EXHIBITS space permits. Livermore 925.456.2305 , wentevine- Fall open house, Thomas Coyne Winery, livermoreperformingarts.org San Ramon Symphonic Band, Dec. 17, 7 Art Crawl, Friday, November 26 from yards.com. Nov 26, 27 and 28 noon to 5 p.m. at the Livermore-Amador Symphony, Dec. 6-9 p.m. evening of art in over a dozen p.m. “In Dulci Jubilo” Holiday Christmas Artists Bob and Sharon Gardner, showing historical tasting room at 51 E. Vallecitos 4, Three Cheers for Beethoven! con- Concert. Dougherty Valley Performing locations in downtown Livermore. Some their works at the Livermore Art Associa- Road, Livermore. Three new wines will be cert, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., locations offer winetasting or refresh- Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd., San tion Gallery in Carnegie Park the month released: 2009 Viognier, California, 2008 Livermore. 8 p.m “Three Cheers for Ramon, 973-3343 or SanRamonPerform- ments as well. This upcoming Art Crawl of November. Bob creates pottery, such Confluence, and 2006 Port, California. A Beethoven.” Prelude talk 7 p.m. Tickets features the soft opening of the Bothwell ingArts.com.. as bowls, teapots and sculptural pieces. selection of fine fruits and cheeses will and information at 925-373-6800, www. Chanticleer, “A Chanticleer Christmas,” Arts Center’s Downtown Art Studios, 62 Sharon weaves, knits and uses other be served. The winery will be collecting livermoreperformingarts.org. So. L. Look for Art Crawl maps at the fol- Thurs., Dec. 23, 7:30 p.m. Bankhead textiles techniques. Their works will be food for Open Heart Kitchen during the Christmas Concert at Our Savior - Our Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. lowing locations: Ryan Fine Art Gallery & on display the entire month. LAA Gallery November Open House. They especially Savior Lutheran Ministries, 1385 South It’s All About Dancing, 171 South J Street; www.livermoreperformingarts.org or is open 11:30-4:00 Wednesday-Sunday, need 4oz juice boxes, tuna pouches and Livermore Avenue, Livermore, will pres- 925-373-6800. Panama Red Coffee Company, corner of and is located in the historic Carnegie individual-serving cheese and crackers ent “Gentle Stranger in the Manger,” a 1st and K Streets. More information is Hot Club of San Francisco, “Best of the Building at 2155 3rd St. Livermore. The and granola bars for the weekend bag concert of Advent and Christmas music, Bay,” sizzling, swinging New Year’s Eve available at www.lindryanfineart.com Gallery is the perfect place to find unique lunch program. on Sunday, December 5, at 4:00 p.m. in Exhibition of Fine Art Photography, celebration. Fri., Dec. 31, 8 p.m. Bankhead handmade gifts made by local artists. Holiday Preview Weekend, Murrieta's the sanctuary. The concert is a gift to the Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Tickets featuring Park Images by Walter Davies. Admission is free. For more info call the Well, Fri.-Sun. Nov. 26-28, 11 a.m. - 4:30 community. It will feature Our Savior’s Swirl on the Square, through November and information at www.livermoreper- Gallery 925-449-9927. p.m . Wine country gifts, seasonal cheer, choirs, handbell and brass ensembles, formingarts.org or 925-373-6800. 28. Images created in regional, state and Las Positas College artists, exhibiting and the blends of Murrieta's Well. Attend strings and woodwinds, and contemporary national parks and botanical gardens. work at the Livermore Library Gallery our Holiday Preview weekend with fam- ensemble. In addition, there will be sev- ON THE STAGE Swirl, Blacksmith Square, 21 So. Liver- throughout the month of November. ily and friends to kick start the season of eral sing-along carols with organ, brass, more Ave., Livermore. Open Thurs.-Sun. Much Ado About Nothing, by William The exhibit, “The Dynamics of Paint,” sharing. Information at 925.456.2395 or timpani and bells. Shakespeare. Las Positas College pro- for lunch and evening fare. Call 447-1400 includes paintings in a variety of media, www.murrietaswell.com. Murrieta's Well, Asbury Christmas Concert – Asbury for hours. duction in the Black Box theater in the styles, and subjects. Artists exhibiting are 3005 Mines Rd., Livermore. United Methodist Church will hold its Las Positas College Center for the Arts. Livermore Art Association Gallery, Liliana Choy, Cynthia Dawn, Soussan Prelude to Christmas, Nov. 26, 27 and 14th Annual Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. located in Carnegie Park, offers art Performance dates are November 26 and Farsi, Sabin Cristian Filip, Christine Gold- 28, noon to 5 p.m. Fenestra Winery, 83 on Sunday Dec. 5, in its Sanctuary at 4743 27 at 8 p.m. and November 28 at 2 p.m. classes, unusual gifts, painting rentals, art enhar, Carol Hart, Linda Hopwood, Gina Vallecitos Rd., Livermore. Decorated for East Ave. in Livermore. All of Asbury’s exhibits and information pertaining to the Tickets are $12 for general admission and Kaiper, Hilary M. Kauffman, Verna Me- the holidays. Taste holiday foods along vocal choirs, the Asbury Band and the bell $8 for students and seniors. For informa- art field, 2155 Third St., Livermore. The deiros, Svetlalna Oleynikova, Alejandro with Fenestra wines. Normal tasting fee choir will be performing. Asbury’s pipe gallery has been open since 1974 and is tion about purchasing tickets, access the Rodriguez, Gloria Sayers, Usha Shukla, applies. 447-5246 or www.fenestrawin- organ will also be part of the evening’s LPC Performing Arts website at www. run as a co-op by local artists. Hours are Lisa Turnquist, Nicole Wakeman, and ery.com. musical offerings. The concert is open Wed.-Sun. 11:30-4 p.m. For information laspositascollege.edu/performingarts. Jason Zadwick. The Livermore Library, Charles R Vineyards is dusting off a couple to the public. A free will offering can be For more information about the show or call 449-9927. at 1188 S. Livermore Ave., is open seven of library wines. A two pack of the '07 made at the door. There will be a punch The Wild Vine auditions, contact Ken Ross at kross@ , Livermore artist Lenore days a week. For more information about Primitivo an '06 Syrah is now available and cookie reception immediately fol- Kreit, presents "Works in Life Drawing" laspositascollege.edu. Auditions will be the exhibit, contact Hilary Kauffman at for club members for just $45. Club mem- lowing in the Chapel building. For more on August 23 and 24 from 7-9:30 p.m. in from Oct.-Nov. A life-long artist, her [email protected] berships available. 8195 Crane Ridge information call Jean Braun at 449-4168, work includes extensive life drawings & the Center for the Arts, 3000 Campus Hill Livermore Art Association, Winter Holi- Road. in Livermore. Tasting room is open the church office at 447-1950 or e-mail: Drive, Livermore. paintings in an expressionistic style as day Celebration Art Show at Dougherty Friday-Sunday Noon to 4:30pm. Come on [email protected] well as abstracts. Kreit exhibits throughout Bah HumBug! Scrooge’s Christmas Station Community Center in San Ramon. Friday's and you will be sure to find our Pleasanton Community Concert Band, Carol, Dec, 3-12, Presented by San the Tri-Valley Area, Berkeley & Oakland The show features more than 30 art works winemaker Randy behind the bar. holiday concert Sun., Dec. 5, 2 to 3:15 areas. Wild Vine Art Gallery & Wine Ramon Community Theater at the Front by 20 local artists including metal works, Thanksgiving Weekend, Stony Ridge and p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Rail- Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Lounge, 2187 First St., Livermore. paintings and photography. All art is for Crooked Vine, Nov. 26, 27 and 28. Port, road Ave., Pleasanton. Free. Donations National Watercolor Society exhibit, Rd., San Ramon, 973-3343 or SanRa- sale. The show will run from November 1st Cheese & Chocolates & Shopping. 4948 appreciated. monPerformingArts.com. paintings from the 89th Annual Exhibi- to December 17th. The Dougherty Station Tesla Rd., Livermore, Taylor Eigsti, “Best of the Bay” pianist, tion. October 19 – December 2, Firehouse The Princess and the Pea, Civic Arts Stage Community Center is located at 17011 Tues., Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m. Bankhead The- Company, Dec. 10, 11, 17 and 18, 7:30 Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleas- Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon. MUSIC/CONCERTS ater, 2400 First St., Livermore. www. anton. Information at 925.931.5355. p.m. and Dec. 11, 12, 18 and 19, 2 p.m. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 Music every Saturday in the tasting room livermoreperformingarts.org or 925- Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Rd., Oils by Mary Kay Feit, Exhibit on display a.m to 5 p.m. Admission is free. from 12 to 4; open every day if the gate 373-6800. through Nov. 30. Wente Vineyards Estate Pleasanton. Ticket information www. Paintbrush Diplomacy, December 11, is open and for sure on Fridays, Satur- Orchestra/Band Concert, 8 p.m. Dec. firehousearts.org Winery Tasting Room, 5565 Tesla Rd., 2010 – January 12, 2011, International days and Sundays 11 to 5. Red Feather 8. Las Positas College Performing Arts Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 9

Firehouse Kids, The Princess and the Pea and a large Chinese Dragon who will MOVIES themed numbers and pieces from African, Donlon Way. $5 per person (photos with by Civic Arts Stage Co., Sat., Dec. 11, 11 perform during the Chinese segment of Classic Film Series, Vine Cinema and German, English, Catalan, Hebrew and Old St. Nick are $5 each). Create holiday a.m. Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Rd., the ballet. Public performances will be Alehouse, 1722 First St., Livermore. American Folk Song traditions. Audience gifts including orange pomanders, spiced Pleasanton. www.firehousearts.org accompanied the Livermore-Amador Schedule: Dec. 9: Gone with the Wind; participation, too. Tickets at the door: pine cones, popcorn & cranberry garland The Little Engine That Could, Dec. 18-23, Symphony pit orchestra. The Cantabella and Jan. 13: Star Wars. All movies begin at adults $15, children 10 and under $10; in and gingerbread ornaments. Festivities Presented by Bay Area Children’s Theater Children's Chorus and Harmony Fusion 7 p.m. Information at www.VineCinema. advance online: adults $12, children 10 also include a holiday sing-along, cookies at the Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger will add vocal entertainment to selected com or 447-2545. and under $8, at Cantabella.org. and hot cider. Old St. Nick will be on hand Canyon Rd., San Ramon, 973-3343 or performances. Documentary film, Afghan Star, Dec. 16. for visits and photographs. Please call SanRamonPerformingArts.com. Friday Night Dance Parties, themed Pleasanton Library hosting at the new OPERA (925) 452-2100 for more information. parties each Friday night from Salsa to Firehouse Arts Center. No reservations Tosca, Opera San José continues its 27th An- Holiday Book Sale, Friends of the Dublin COMEDY Swing, includes a group dance lesson are required. Admission is free. Doors niversary Season with Puccini’s Tosca. In Library, Sat., Dec. 4, noon to 3 p.m. at the Teen Improv, “Holiday Shorts: A Long at 8:15. $15 cover charge, 8:15 dance open 6:15 p.m., film at 7 p.m. Seating is Italian with English Supertitles The story of a Dublin Library, 200 Civic Plaza, Dublin. Winter’s Tale,” during the first act of the lesson, 9:00-10:30 for dance parties. It's on a first-come, first-served basis. (Info popular opera diva brought down by the chief Selection of hardcover books in excellent show suggestions from the audience will All About Dancing, 171 So. J Street, on movie www.afghanstar.com.) For more of Rome’s secret police, Tosca always leaves condition, ideal for gift giving. Choose inspire holiday-themed games, scenes Livermore. 925-449-9292, or studio@ information, call Penny Johnson, 931- its audiences startled and breathless by the from children’s books, holiday books, and additional audience interactions. The itsallaboutdancing.com. 3405. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Rail- searing beauty of Puccini’s melodies. Eight gourmet cookbooks, photographic collec- audience will then vote for which short New Performance Group, combines dance, road Avenue, downtown Pleasanton. performances are scheduled from November tions, collectible books, games, and more. scene Creatures of Impulse will make gymnastics and acrobatics. Four hours of Going Places: A Classic Film Series, shown 13 through 28 at the California Theatre, 345 Most items are specially priced to stretch into an entire improvised “play” during week of training to start. Two dance classes the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. South First Street in downtown San José. holiday budgets. For information, contact the second act. Thurs. and Fri., Dec. 2 as well as tumbling and flexibility class. in the Pleasanton Library's meeting room Tickets are on sale at the Opera San José the Dublin Library (925) 828-1315 and 3, 7:30 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, Information, contact gymfinityjuli@ through June 2, 2011. The program is a Box Office, by phone at (408) 437-4450 or Holidays in the Vineyards (Saturday & 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. yahoo.com or [email protected]. partnership of Las Positas College and the online at www.operasj.org. Tosca is made Sunday), noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 4 and 5. firehousearts.org Dance Studio @ Gymfinity. Pleasanton Public Library proudly pres- possible, in part, by a Cultural Affairs Grant Festive event hosted by area wineries: Big Fat Year End Kiss Off Comedy Show Brinda Dixit, Bharatanatyam Aranget- ent. Candy Klaschus, film historian and from the City of San José. wine tasting, food, entertainment, gift XVIII, Will Durst & Friends Dec. 30, 7 ram or Solo Dance Debut, Sun., Jan. Coordinator of the Humanities Program Met Opera Theater-casts, 10 a.m. simultane- ideas. www.lvwine.org p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., 2, 4 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First at Las Positas College, is the host. There ous viewings and 12 encore rebroadcasts Holiday Sights and Sounds Parade and Livermore. St., Livermore. Free admission. Event is no admission charge. 400 Old Bernal of Metropolitan Opera productions at Tree Lighting, Dec. 4; 6 p.m. downtown, includes live music, refreshments and Ave., Pleasanton. 931-3400. No registra- Dublin's Regal Cinema, 6:30 p.m. Wednes- Livermore. Livermore Downtown Inc. dinner. tion required. days - Schedule: Dec. 1: Donizetti's "Son (925) 373-1795. Pasquale;" Dec. 11, Jan. 5: Verdi's "Don Holiday Tea, Sat., Dec. 11, 12:30 p.m. and AUDITIONS/VOLUNTEERS CHORAL Carlo;" Jan. 8, 26: Puccini's "La Fanciulla Sun., Dec. 12, 12:30 p.m. Dublin Heritage Auditions, 30th Annual Sunol Repertory Carols by Candlelight, the Foothill High Del West;" Feb. 12, Mar. 2: Glass's "Nixon in Park and Museums, Donlon Way. $25 per Theatre Melodrama, Tuesday, Nov. 30th choirs are kicking off the holiday season China;" Feb. 26, Mar. 16: Gluck's "Iphigenia person Luncheon served in the holiday in the Sunol Glen School Auditorium at with a caroling concert on Wednesday in Tauride;" April 9, 27: Rossini's "Le Comte glow of this historic setting. The menu 11601 Main St. in Sunol from 6:30 p.m. night, Dec. 1st. It will feature desserts and Ory;" April 23, May 11: Richard Strauss's includes finger sandwiches, savory sweets -8:30 p.m. Auditions are for those actors drinks available during the concert. This is "Capriccio;" April 30, May 18: Verdi's "Il , tea and punch. Tables seat four, but larger 16yrs and above. For more information a fund-raiser to help pay for the classroom Trovatore;" May 14, June 11: Wagner's parties can be accommodated. Register go to www.Sunol.net/srt. Performances piano accompanist. Wed., Dec. 1, 8 p.m. "Die Walkure." early to avoid disappointment. Call (925) are Fri. & Sat. in March. Rehearsals are Foothill High multipurpose room. $10 452-2100 for more information. Tues. & Thurs. from 7-9 p.m. starting Jan. including dessert. 4375 Foothill Road, MISCELLANEOUS Ball at the Mall, Fri., Dec. 31, Stoneridge 4, 2011 through March 3, 2011. Pleasanton, (925) 461-6600 All Breed Cat Show, Nov. 27-28 at the Shopping Center, Pleasanton. Presented Auditions, All Shook Up, Tri-Valley Rep- Valley Concert Chorale, Holiday con- Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasan- by Pleasanton North Rotary as a fund- ertory Theatre, Inspired by the music of cert, “Carols of Comfort and Joy,” two ton. Presented by Fog City Cat Club. raiser for children in the community. Live Elvis Presley. A new musical using 24 performances. Sat., Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Over 55 breeds including judging of zoo music, piano bar, premium no-host bar, Elvis Presley tunes – but not based on Asbury United Methodist Church, 4743 (200) competing cats. Lots of vendors champagne at midnight, souvenir glass, his life story. Auditions Mon., Nov. 29, East Ave., Livermore. and Sun., Dec. 5, 3 with gifts, toys, supplies, cat trees, beds, hors d’oeuvres and more. Information and Comedian Tommy Davidson will be artwork, clothing, jewelry & more. Pedi- performing at Tommy T’s in Pleasanton, 7:30 p.m. and Thurs., Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. at p.m. Trinity Lutheran Church, Pleasanton. tickets at www.ballatthemall.org. 1048 Serpentine Lane, #303, Pleasanton. Ticket information at www.valleyconcer- greed kittens for sale, rescue kitten and 2011 San Ramon Art & Wind Festival November 24th – 28th. Best known cat adoptions, household pet cat judging Poster Art Contest, open to San Ramon as one of the original stars of the Call-backs, by invitation only, Saturday tchorale.org December 4th at 11:00am. Performance The New Dimension Chorus Holiday too. 707 338-1261 or 916 812-3132. www. middle and high school students. The win- hit television show In Living Color. dates: April 22-May 8 at the Bankhead Show on December 5, at 3:00 p.m. at fogcitycatclub.com ning piece of artwork will be featured on Tommy’s range from stand-up comedy Theater, Livermore. Please prepare a brief the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Dublin Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, festival posters, postcards and t-shirts. It and acting to versatile music ability song (16-32 bars). Bring sheet music; located at 38451 Fremont Blvd., Fre- Thurs., Dec. 2, 7 to 8 p.m. Musical will also be framed and hung in one of have earned him a reputation as a accompanist provided. Please bring a mont. The program features Featuring performance by the Dublin Unified the Community Centers in San Ramon. solid performer. Shows are Fri., Nov. picture and resume, stapled together. Be Northern California’s Premier Men’s Elementary School Choir, refreshments The student who created the winning art 26 at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.; Sat., Nov. 27 prepared to dance. Information at www. A Capella Chorus, Voices in Harmony and a visit from a special guest from the work will also receive a $200 savings at 7 and 10 p.m. and Sun., Nov. 28 at trivalleyrep.org and the Northern California Champion North Pole. Dublin Civic Center, 100 bond, second place a $100 savings bond 7 p.m. Tommy T’s is located at 5104 Solo Piano Competition for young art- Sweet Adelines’ Chorus, Harmony Fu- Civic Place, Dublin. Free admission. and third place winner a $50 savings bond. (925) 556-4500. Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, information ists, sponsored by Las Positas College sion. Will-Call Ticket orders, for $10.00 Prizes are provided by the San Ramon Arts Campus Speech Tournament, 1 to 5 p.m. Foundation. All entries will be displayed or tickets at (925) 227-1800 or http:// Music Department, open to ages 14 ($5.00 for children 12 and under), can through 24. The winner will perform be placed by calling Dave Rail at (408) Dec. 3. Las Positas College Performing in the Lindsay Dirkx Brown Art Gallery George Gershwin’s, “Rhapsody in Blue” 267-1649. Tickets are also available at Arts Center, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., located at the San Ramon Community at the May 4, 2011 Orchestra Concert as the door for $12.00. Livermore. Performing Arts Events Line Center during the month of May 2011. part of the inaugural season for the new Choral Concert, 8 p.m., Dec. 7. Las Positas at 925.424.1100 or go to www.laspositas- The contest entry form and info can be DANCE Barbara Fracisco Mertes Center for the College Performing Arts Center, 3000 college.edu/performingarts. found online at www.artandwind.com. Dance Concert, 8 p.m. Dec. 4. Las Positas Arts. The application deadline is February Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. Perform- Old Fashioned Holiday Workshop and Entries are due by January 7, 2011. For College Performing Arts Center, 3000 10, 2011. The selection will take place in ing Arts Events Line at 925.424.1100 Visit with Old St. Nick, Sat., Dec. 4, 2 to more info, call (925) 973-3366. Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. Perform- February. To request application forms or go to www.laspositascollege.edu/per- 4 p.m. Dublin Heritage Park & Museums, ing Arts Events Line at 925.424.1100 and information, contact Music instruc- formingarts or go to www.laspositascollege.edu/per- tor Mary Campbell, (925) 424-1118 or Sing it yourself Messiah, Valley Concert formingarts [email protected]. Chorale. Fri., Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. Trin- Holiday Treasures From Around The Livermore's 2011 Regional Talent Com- ity Lutheran Church, Pleasanton Ticket World, Livermore School of Dance, Dec. petition is now accepting applications. information at www.valleyconcertcho- 5, 1 and 5 p.m Bankhead Theater, 2400 Top winners in each of two categories rale.org. First St., Livermore. - youth (17 and under) and adults (18 and Cantabella Children’s Chorus Annual The Nutcracker, Valley Dance Theatre 30th over) - will each take home $2,500. This Winter Concerts, Tomorrow Shall Be Annual Production, December 11, 17, competition will feature singers, dancers, My Dancing Day, Saturday, December 11, 18 & 19, 2010 - 7:00 p.m; December 11, bands, pianists, magicians, comedians and 2010, at 1:30 P.M. featuring the training 12, 18, & 19, 2010 - 2:00 p.m. Bankhead other types of performances. Aspiring and performing choirs and introducing the Theater, 2400 First Street, Livermore. All performers from anywhere are invited new Honors Choir, and at 4:00 P.M. the seats are reserved. Adults $24, $27 & $33; to audition and compete. Information performing choirs and the new Honors Students 17 and younger $18. Purchase and applications for auditions are avail- Choir. At Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, online at www.bankheadtheater.org, by able at LivermoresTalentCompetition. 1385 South Livermore Avenue, Liver- phone at 925-373-6800 or in person at com. Applications must be received by more. Children aged kindergarten through the theater box office. Highlighting the December 31, 2010. high school will perform choral music, 30th annual full-length production of accompanied by dancers and chamber the Tchaikovsky's holiday classic The musicians. Repertoire includes dance- Nutcracker will be Taeko drummers 10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Community Fighting Cancer, One Pitch at a Time

By Patricia Koning before the upper-bracket champi- This fall, the coaches of the onship game. Mavericks Fastpitch Softball team The Mavericks usually partici- came up with an innovative way pate in two tournaments a month. to inspire the team while helping On their off weekends, they often in the fight against breast cancer. perform community service proj- In September, the team began ects such as volunteering at a local conducting a pledge drive, “Strike bone marrow drive. Over Labor Out Breast Cancer,” to benefit the Day weekend, they hosted an ice ValleyCare Health Library and cream social for the heroes residing Ryan Comer Cancer Resource at Livermore’s Veterans Hospital. Center in Pleasanton. Members of the Mavericks The Mavericks collected are Samantha Caravas, Marissa pledges based on the number of Cordisco, Renee Dobson, Sara strikeouts the team’s pitchers Journey, Greta Kohlmoos, Skyler delivered in the Bay Area Bash Kriz, Halle Niklewicz Jamie Orr, tournament, held in Hayward at Selena Shang, Marina VanVliet, the end of September. The team and Ashley Weiler. The coaches are collected nearly $2,000 for the Coach John Niklewicz, Glen Cor- Pleasanton facility, which will be disco, and Charlie VanVliet; the used to provide prevention, early team manager is Greg Dobson. detection, education, and support The Mavericks were the 2009 for cancer patients. Western Pacific Champions and Team members present check to ValleyCare Foundation. The team members also competed in the Western Summer swapped their usual teal jersey World Series in Portland, Oregon. for pink in the Think Pink tourna- For more information on the awareness and fundraising. During Berean Christian, the cheerleaders through ticket sales goes to the ment in Modesto, the weekend of Mavericks, visit http://mavericks- the month of October, which is donated their proceeds from the holder of the winning ticket and Sept. 11 and 12. The team was the fastpitch.com. National Breast Cancer Awareness regular 50/50 raffle to the Susan G. half goes to the cheerleading team special runner-up in the crowded The Valley Christian High Month, the team wore pink ribbons Komen Foundation. In the 50/50 to help pay for competition fees U16/U18 age group, earning 31 School Cheerleading Team also in their hair. raffle, half of the money raised and travel. runs and allowing only two runs combined sports with breast cancer At the Oct. 22 game against

Scouts Create Special Flagpole Display The Livermore Flagpole, which out by Boy Scout Troop 939. They served the community as a land- created a display to show the grain mark for 99 years at the corner of and number of rings in the wood. First St. and Livermore Avenue, They used a three foot section, cut- continues to serve the commu- ting it at an angle, sanding it, then nity. built a stand to display it. In addi- The flagpole was removed in tion, the troop conducted research 2004 after long cracks were found on the history of the flagpole. at the top and bottom of the pole. The finished work is on display The pole was cut into four sec- at the Carnegie Building, 3rd and tions and put into storage. A reas- J Streets, Livermore. The building sembled segment, measuring 60 is open Wed.-Sun. 11:30 a.m. to 4 feet, was placed at the southeast p.m. For more information, call corner of Carnegie Park. It is used 449-9927. as a flagpole next to the Veterans’ Memorial. The Livermore Heritage Guild was given additional sections. Scouts pictured, left to right, are Some of the wood has been used by Max McKernan, Cole Kraft, Levi local woodcarvers to create items Matsushima, Henry Robbins, of interest. Sections were cut into Kyle Gorrie, and Daniel various sizes and made available McKernan. One other Scout, to the public as souvenirs. Recently, Kyle Gorrie contacted Nicolas Trebes also worked on the Livermore Heritage Guild to the display but is not pictured. create a flagpole display for an The Scout leader in the back is Eagle Scout project to be carried Mr. Sam Steele. Community THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 11

LPC Students Bring Home Awards in Journalism

Las Positas College students won 24 awards at the Journalism Association of Community Col- Army Pfc. Daniel R. Stark graduated from the Field Artillery leges NorCal Conference on Nov. 6 at San Jose State University. Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist Advanced Individual “My co-adviser Nolan O’Brien Training course at Fort Sill, Lawton, Okla. and I were especially gratified As members of the Army's field artillery team, the course is that all students who attended the designed to train soldiers as specialists to operate the advanced conference with us competed in field artillery tactical data systems for both cannon and multiple at least one contest,” said Mass launch rocket systems. The specialists play a critical role in the Communications faculty adviser safe, accurate, and lethal delivery of the field artillery's various Melissa Korber. fire support systems used to support infantry and tank units in Las Positas College students combat. Skills training included methods of computing target gain practical journalism experi- locations using computers or manual calculations, ammunition ence through the student maga- handling techniques, and operating and performing maintenance zine “Naked,” student newspaper on related equipment, vehicles, generators, and artillery tactical “Express,” and Radio Las Positas. and data systems. The publications and radio station He is the son of Micheal S. Stark of Livermore, and Linda L. support the award-winning Mass Kelly of Winters. The private is a 1998 graduate of Granada High Communications program which Las Positas College student Julian Lim, a resident of Tracy, is the School, Livermore. offers a Certificate of Achieve- winner of seven awards and one certificate at the recent Journalism ment, a Certificate of Completion Association of Community Colleges NorCal Conference. Lim Army Pfc. Kevin J. Calhoun has graduated from Basic Combat in Radio, and transfer classes to serves as Editor in Chief of both the Las Positas College student Training at Fort Sill, Lawton, Okla., as an Honor Graduate and four-year colleges. newspaper and magazine. Photo credit: Alton Richardson. received a Letter of Commendation. Following are the conference The soldier's academic and military accomplishments were a award winners: Julian Lim, of Tracy, Editor in Chief of “Express” Jeff Bennett and Kish Singh, direct result of energetic application of sound judgment and newly Rose, of Castro Valley, Honorable and “Naked,” 1st Place for Profile both of Livermore, 2nd Place acquired technical knowledge. The soldier's attention to detail, ap- Mention for Infographic; Kelly Feature Story, 1st Place for Photo for Inside Page Layout, Tabloid; Sheeran, of Livermore, Honorable pearance, cooperative spirit, military bearing, and military courtesy Illustration, 1st Place for Bring- Brittney Barsotti, of Livermore, Mention for News Story; Jon Lytle were commendable and exemplary, and contributed to the Battery in Advertisement, 1st Place for Honorable Mention for Editorial . Honorable Mention for Profile Cadre of the 19th Field Artillery Regiment's successful mission On-the-spot Editorial Cartoon, , Honorable Mention for News Feature Story accomplishments. 2nd Place for On-the-spot News Feature; Meradith Loggins, of The following students from the During the nine weeks of Basic Combat Training, the soldier Judgment/Layout, Honorable Livermore, Radio Las Positas, 1st “Express” staff also participated in studied the Army mission and received instruction and training Mention for Student-designed Place for Web/Broadcast News the event: Trevin Smith, of Castro exercises in drill and ceremonies, Army history, core values and Advertisement, Honorable Men- Adam Foster, of Sunol, Radio Valley, Arts and Entertainment Ed- traditions, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, tion for Editorial Cartoon, Editor Las Positas. 2nd Place for Web/ itor; Courtney Sipel, of Livermore, first aid, rifle marksmanship, weapons use, map reading and land Recognition Certificate Broadcast News; Brenda Cruz, Features Editor; Andre Principe, navigation, foot marches, armed and unarmed combat, and field Jeff Bennett, of Livermore, of Pleasanton, Executive Editor of Dublin, Sport Editor; Darshan maneuvers and tactics. Express Staff, 3rd Place for Sports “Naked,” Honorable Mention for Dixit, of Livermore, Staff; and Calhoun, a cannon crewmember, is the son of Paul J. and Sharon Feature Photo, 4th Place for Sports Opinion Story; Shaun Packer, of Hayward, Staff. L. Calhoun of Pleasanton. Feature Photo, General Excellence Matt Burris, of Livermore, Las Positas College is located for Video Journalism, two awards, Express News Editor, Honorable at 3000 Campus Hill Drive in General Excellence for Online Mention for On-the-spot Opinion Livermore. Photo Essay, Honorable Mention Writing; Mackenzie Luther, of for Sports Action Photo Pleasanton, Honorable Mention for On-the-spot News Story; James

Arroyo Seco Elementary Among Top Recycling Schools Teachers and students at Arroyo effort that has just reached an nationwide. The school has collected al- country have signed up to help Seco Elementary School used to impressive milestone of keeping In addition to keeping the most 41,000 pouches and earned collect almost 30 different kinds see a lot of used Capri Sun drink 50 million pouches out of land- equivalent of the weight of 20 $808.90 as part of a free nation- of products and packaging Terra- pouches get thrown away. Once fills. The school has done such school buses or 480 football fields wide program that pays schools Cycle accepts. The participating they signed up to send them to a an exceptional job of collecting out of landfills, Capri Sun and and non-profits to collect non-recy- organizations will collectively earn company called TerraCycle, the drink pouches that TerraCycle and TerraCycle have paid one million clable waste that would otherwise over 2 million dollars this year. school began earning two cents Capri Sun are recognizing it as one dollars to schools and non-profits go to a landfill. Any interested organizations for every one of those pouches of the America’s Best Brigades in return for the recycled drink More than 70,000 schools and can learn more or sign up for free and became part of a nationwide for being in the top 100 collectors pouches. community groups around the today at www.terracycle.net. 12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010 Community

(Organizations wishing to run notices in lunch, show and motorcoach transportation: Jose Maria Amador Chapter, Pleasanton, women, children and family issues, in addition Granada Baptist Church, 945 Concan- Bulletin Board, send information to PO Box $78 per person members, $79 per person volunteer women's service organization de- to helping the blind. For information please non Blvd., Livermore. Services: Sunday 1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care of Bulletin nonmembers. Leave Pleasanton 10:45 a.m., scended from a patriot of the American Revo- call 925-443-4543. school 9:45 a.m., worship 11 a.m., Tuesday Board. Include name of organization, meeting return approximately 6:45 p.m. Cathedral of lution. Dedicated to patriotism, preservation Ravenswood Historic Site, operated Bible study, 10 a.m. to noon. All are welcome. date, time, place and theme or subject. Phone Christ the Light, downtown Oakland, Fri., of American history and securing America's by the Livermore Area Recreation and Park 1-888-805-7151. number and contact person should also be Dec. 17, lunch along the Carquinez Straits, future through better education. For more District. Ravenswood, is a restored Victorian Tri-Valley Unity Church, 2260 Camino included. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday.) followed by tour of Lindsay Wildlife Museum information, contact [email protected] country estate. The public is invited to join free Ramon, San Ramon. Class for children, ages Christmas Boutique and Pancake in Walnut Creek. Price includes tour, lunch and or phone 510-507-5509. tours noon to 4 p.m. the second and fourth Sun- 1-10, during church service, 10 to 11:15 a.m. Breakfast, Sat., Dec. 5, 9 a.m. to noon. Hosted motorcoach transportation, $78 per person. Disability Action Network is a group days of each month except December, with the Ongoing adult classes and small groups. All by the Livermore Cresta Blanca Girl Scouts. Sign up at the travel desk, 5353 Sunol Blvd., of people with all kinds of disabilities who last tour starting about 3:15 p.m. Also available are welcome. (925) 829-2733. www.trival- Open to the public. Breakfast is $6. Fellowship Pleasanton. are working together to make change in the on tour days are a gift shop featuring unique leyunity.com Hall of the First Presbyterian Church, 2020 Potluck dinner celebrating election community. The group works on health care, Victorian gift items and the Ravenswood Prog- Meditation Study Group, Practice new Fifth Street, Livermore. For more information victories and the season hosted by the Jerry housing, access, attendant programs, transpor- ress League’s Tankhouse Tea Room. Special meditation methods, based on teachings of contact Valerie at 925/577-9052. McNerney Campaign, the TriValley Demo- tation, and other issues affecting people with events each year include the Old-Fashioned Ice Shinzen Young, using audio, video and hand- The Rotarian Foundation of Livermore cratic Club, the San Ramon Valley Democratic disabilities. The group is a project of CRIL, Cream Social on the second Sunday in August outs, 7:15-8:30 p.m., on the second and fourth is currently accepting grant applications. The Club and the American Muslims and Friends Community Resources for Independent Living. and Victorian Yuletide the second Sunday in Tuesdays of every month, at Tri-Valley Unity's Rotarian Foundation of Livermore’s purpose is Democratic Club on Sat., Dec. 12, 6:30 p.m. CRIL serves people with all disabilities and December. Ravenswood is located at 2647 Gathering Place, 7567 Amador Valley Blvd., to make substantial charitable gifts to deserv- at the IBEW Hall, 6250 Village Pkwy., Dub- seniors with disabling conditions, providing Arroyo Rd., Livermore. For more information, #120, Dublin. Contact Gayle at gstaehle@ ing projects in the Livermore area. To date lin. The McNerney Campaign is bringing assistance with housing, personal assistant call 925-443-0238 or visit the LARPD Web comcast.net the Foundation has funded grants in excess of the main dish. Please bring appetizers, des- services, benefits, assistive technology, advo- site at www.larpd.dst.ca.us. Spiritual Reiki Group The Japanese $800,000 to support the local community. All serts and beverages. Speakers include Rep. cacy, and peer counseling. CRIL’s mission is system of Reiki is a spiritual practice which grant applications must be received not later McNerney and other elected officials. www. to advocate and provide resources for people RELIGION uses meditations, chanting, visualizations, than December 1st. The grant applications trivalleydems.com. with disabilities to improve the quality of life Congregation Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada and hands-on energy group work so that we will be submitted to the Board of Directors Senior Support Program of the Tri-Val- and make communities fully accessible. For Court, Pleasanton. Information 931-1055. can connect to our true nature. No prior Reiki meeting in February, 2011 with distribution ley is looking for Volunteer Drivers to transport more information, please call Jessica Lehman Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, affiliated with experience is necessary. On the first and third by April 2011. You can download the grant seniors to their medical appointments. The at (510) 881-5743 x5937. the Congress of Secular Jewish Organizations Saturdays of every month, 10-11:45 a.m. at Tri- application and outline at www.rotarianfounda- Senior Transportation Program supplements Birthright Pregnancy Support Service, (csjo.org). Information, Rabbi Judith Seid, Valley Unity's Gathering Place, 7567 Amador tionlivermore.org or contact Chris Mohammed, existing public and paratransit services by looking an office volunteer to assist clients Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, 485-1049 or East- Valley Blvd., #120, Dublin. Contact Gayle at 925.290.8180. providing rides via volunteer drivers. Vol- weekly on Wednesdays 10-2, and substitute BaySecularJews.org. [email protected]. Seniors, Thurs., Dec. 2, 10 a.m. to noon. unteers must have a valid driver’s license, a office volunteers for all days. Also looking First Church of Christ, Scientist, Liver- Community Bible Study Class, book of Browse holiday shopping at the Robert registered vehicle, carry automobile liability for a volunteer CPA to assist annually with more, has services at 10 a.m. every Sunday Luke will be the topic of study in Pleasanton at Livermore Community Center, 4444 East insurance, and have a clear DMV record. Please reviewing books and other related assistance. and at 7:30 p.m. on the second Sunday of each Valley Bible Church. CBS is a non-denomina- Ave., Livermore. Free gift wrapping on items contact Jennifer Cullen for more information For information on a variety of volunteer op- month. Sunday School for students (ages 3-20) tional Bible study ministry open to all women, provided by Visiting Angels of Livermore. at (925) 931-5387 or email: ja.cullen@yahoo. portunities, please call John Kupski evenings is held at 10 a.m. every Sunday. The church and with a special children's program for ages 0-5 Questions, call Dana at 373-5760. com. Funding for this program is provided by at 606-8230. We are presently open M-Tu-Fri reading room are located at Third and N Streets. years old. The class meets on Thursdays from Livermore Amador Valley Garden Club Alameda County Transportation Commission 10 am-2 pm, Thurs. eve. 6-9 pm, and we are The Reading Room, which is open to the public, 9:30-11:30AM beginning 9/9/10 and goes will meet Thursday, December 9 at the Alisal (Alameda CTC). anxious to reopen on Wed. Birthright offers features books, CDs and magazines for sale. until 5/12/11. More information about the Elementary School multipurpose room, 1454 Retired Public Employees under CALP- free pregnancy tests, guidance, adoption and For information, call (925) 447-2946. CBS program and registration available by Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton, at 6:30 pm (pot ERS, meeting Dec. 2 for Christmas Party at medical referrals, baby and maternity clothing, Faith Chapel Assembly of God, 6656 contacting Sharon at 925-399-5072, or email luck) with program at 7pm. Jenny Papka, Emil Villa's Hickory Pit, 3064 Pacific Ave., and more. Livermore office at 1520 Catalina Alisal St., Pleasanton, Sunday School for all [email protected]. co-director of Native Bird Connections, will Livermore. 10:30 a.m. $14 includes tax and tip. Ct., just behind the Granada Shopping Center, ages 9:30 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m., Children’s Granada Baptist Church, 945 Concan- speak on "Inviting Birds into the Garden." Her Limited space so the first 30 will be honored. or call 449-5887. 1-800-550-4900 Hotline Church 11:15 a.m. Women's Bible study non Boulevard, Livermore. Services: Sunday non-profit organization focuses on wildlife Deadline to register is Fri., Nov. 26. Call Muriel number is staffed 24 hours a day. All Birth- Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Please call office at school – 9:45 a.m.; worship service – 11 a.m. education with non-releasable wild birds and Springer, 447-1920. right services are free and confidential. www. 846-8650 for weekly programs. All are welcome. 1-888-805-7151. employs her twenty years' experience working Bird walk, Fri., Nov. 26, 9:30 a.m. John birthright.org Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, 1385 Seventh-day Adventist Church, 243 with native species from mountain lions to Muir National Historic Site. Over 100 species Toastmasters, Amador Valley group meets S. Livermore Avenue, Livermore. Sunday Scott Street, Livermore. 925-447-5462, ser- hummingbirds including over 30 species of of birds have been identified at the site. Meet at Mimi's Cafe, 4775 Hacienda Dr., Dublin, 7 worship at 9 a.m.; Sunday School and Adult vices on Saturday: Sabbath school 9:30 a.m., raptors in captivity. Visitors welcome. For at the visitor center, 4202 Alhambra Ave., a.m. Thursday mornings. Learn to communi- Bible Study at 10:30 a.m.; contemporary worship 11 a.m. www.livermoresda.org/ All more information visit www.lavgc.org Martinez. Bring water and binoculars (of cate more effectively, improve presentation service 11 a.m. (Connected). For information, are welcome. Ohlone Audubon meets December 7 at available). Wear good walking shoes. If rains skills and leadership potential. Contact Hal call 925-447-1246. The Catholic Community of St. Charles 7:30 pm at Pleasanton Middle School Library, heavily, the walk will be cancelled. Informa- Brown, 462-2412, for information. Asbury United Methodist Church, 4743 Borromeo, 1315 Lomitas Ave. in Livermore 5001 Case Ave. Jerry Ting will showcase 40- tion, call 228-8860. Livermore Military Families is a support East Avenue, Livermore. 9 a.m. Sunday wor- hosting an Advent Celebration on December 50 Alameda County bird species, followed by 2010 Giving Tree Holiday Giving Tree, group for families in Livermore, who have a ship. Information 447-1950. 3rd at 7:00 to 9:00 pm with storytelling, song the members slide shows (up to 10). Holiday sponsored by the Livermore Citizens Police loved one serving in the Military. It is a safe Calvary Chapel Livermore, Sunday and dramatic effects that nationally known cookie exchange. No admission charge & Academy Alumni Association (LPD CPAAA). place to come and share the joys, tears and fears Services 10:30 am and 6:00 p.m. 545 N. L actor Michael Reardon brings to his one-man refreshments served. For more information The tree will be placed in the Livermore Police they have with others who understand what Street Livermore. (925) 447-4357 - www. production of Jesus’ birth. “The Advent Nar- call 510-507-3383. Department lobby through December 15. The they are going through. All family members calvarylivermore.org. ratives” – The Nativity Story; this will be a Clothing Drive - Warm men's clothing for lobby is open 9 am – 5pm Monday – Friday. are welcome to attend meetings. Meetings are St. Matthew's Baptist Church, 1239 telling of the Christmas story. Yuletide fun homeless veterans, plus men's and women's The Police Department is located at 1110 S. held on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the North Livermore Ave., Livermore. Services and refreshments will round out the evening business attire for Wardrobe for Opportunity. Livermore Avenue. Donors select a tag from the home of Cindy Gavello, 2851 Tahoe Drive, on Sunday at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Adult Sunday in Borromeo Hall. Tickets are on sale now, Please bring to Tri-Valley Unity prior to 10 a.m. tree in the lobby and bring the new unwrapped Livermore from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. school 9:30 a.m., Children's Sunday school at $5/child & $8/adults (13 years & older). Sales service, 2260 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, gift (with the tag attached) back to the chimney Pleasanton Newcomers Club, open to 9:30 a.m. Prayer each Wednesday at 7 p.m. fol- will help cover actors' fee. Seating is on a first or call Michele to make other arrangements, – the LPD CPAAA will do the rest. Monetary new and established residents of the Tri-Val- lowed by Bible study at 7:30 p.m. 449-3824. come basis. Contact Julie at upcatholic@aol. (925) 829-1239. donations cannot be accepted. However, ley. Activities include a coffee on the first United Christian Church, celebrating com or 447-3539 ext 114 for tickets. Livermore Library Board, regular meet- gift cards are always welcome. For more Wednesday of the month, a luncheon on the 50 years in the Tri-Valley. 1886 College Ave. Stepping Stones on Grief Journey, ing 7 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 2 at the Civic Center information, please call the Livermore Police second Wednesday of the month, bunco, Mah at M St., Livermore; worships on Sunday Grief Ministry bi-monthly sessions, Catholic Library, 1188 So. Livermore Ave. An agenda Department Citizens Police Academy Alumni Jongg, bridge, walking and hiking groups, morning at 10:30 a.m. Children’s program on Community of Pleasanton. Dec. 9, 23, Jan will be posted at the library 72 hours prior to Association contact at (925) 371-4710. family activities and monthly adult socials. Sunday morning and first Fridays. The com- 13, 27, Feb., 10, 11 and Mar. 10, 24, 7:30 the meeting. Boutique, Ladies Auxiliary of the Fleet Information, call 215-8405 or visit www. munity is welcome. United CC is an Open and p.m. St. Elizabeth Seton, 4001 Stoneridge Valley Spokesmen Bicycle Touring Club, Reserve Association Unit 287 Livermore is PleasantonNewcomers.com. Affirming ministry. Call 449-6820 for more Dr., Pleasanton. No preregistration required. Sat., Nov. 27, 47 miles Shannon Center in holding a Crafters' Boutique on December 4, Good News Bears, nonprofit with a mis- information. Open to all regardless of religious affiliation. Dublin to Castro Valley on way to Moraga 2010 at the Veteran's Hall 522 South L Street, sion to distribute stuffed animals to social Bible Study, offered Wednesdays, 7:30 Please call Mary Hagerty, 846-5377, for more Commons, meet 10 a.m., Peter Rathmann, Livermore from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The services, emergency services, medical facili- to 8:30 PM at the Church of Jesus Christ of information. 336-0973. Sun., Nov. 28, 25 miles Heather proceeds are going to our servicemen and ties and anyone who needs a hug. Based in Latter-day Saints, 6100 Paseo Santa Cruz, A Joyful Christmas concert featuring Farms to Diablo junction and back, meet 10 women serving overseas. Livermore, the group reaches around the Bay Pleasanton. Refreshments served at no cost. vocalist Dinah Chapman and concert pianist a.m. Alma Schiefer, 330-2228. Wed., Dec. 1, Holiday Boutique Vendors, Donlon Area and the world. Volunteers needed to hold 925-305-9468. Clayton Foor. Sunday, Dec. 12, 1 pm at Tri-Val- 25 miles explore the mysteries of Sunol, meet Elementary is hosting a Holiday Boutique on collections of gently used teddy bears and other Trinity, 557 Olivina Ave., Livermore. ley Unity, 2260 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. 8:30 a.m. at Shannon Center in Dublin, Peter Saturday, December 11th and is looking for stuffed animals, assist with fund-raising and Services on Sunday at 8:30, 11 a.m. and 6 $20 at the door. Come early for pre-concert Rathmann, 336-0973. Club meeting Wed., merchants. This event is a fund-raiser for the deliver the animals to organizations supported p.m. with Sunday school or Bible study for festivities 11:30-1:00: Christmas basket raffle Dec. 1, election of officers, Round Table Pizza Donlon Parent Faculty Club and all proceeds by the group. Meetings 2nd Thursday of the all ages at 9:45 a.m. Bible study for adults and holiday refreshments. (925) 829-2733, in Dublin. 6:30 p.m. Nonmembers welcome. will benefit the classrooms. The event will run month, 6:30 p.m. at the Livermore Police Sta- and activities for all ages on Wednesdays at www.trivalleyunity.com www.valleyspokesmen.org. Anyone planning from 10 am to 2 pm and is held in the school's tion. Log on to www.goodnewsbears.org or call 6:45 p.m. 447-1848. to go on a ride is asked to call the leader for multipurpose room. To reserve a space, go to 373-7982 for more information. details on where to meet and what to bring. [email protected]. The cost is The Bingo Ranch, 3070 Pacific Ave. in Pleasantonians 4 Peace is sponsoring a $20 per half table or $40 for an entire 11 foot Livermore and is open Mondays, Wednesday, candlelight Vigil in front of the Museum on table. Space is limited. Thursday, Friday and Saturdays. Buenas Vidas Main, 603 Main Street, downtown Pleasanton, Daughters of the American Revolution, Youth Ranch has been running Bingo for 16 Wed., December 8, 7 p.m. Patricipantse will Josefa Higuera Livermore Chapter, meets years and is now working with Christensen, reflect on the human and monetary costs of the 9:30 a.m. on the first Saturday of the month Arroyo Seco and East Ave Schools, and Excep- war, honor veterans who have sacrificed, and between Sept. and May at the Asbury United tional Needs Network and All American Sports visualize ways of moving beyond this conflict Methodist Church, 4743 East Ave., Livermore. Academy Teams. Come play Bingo and support to a more peaceful world. A Peaceful War DAR is a women's service organization. The the kids in Livermore. Call 925-606-7777 for Protest will be held on the fourth Wednesday women are descended from a patriot of the more information. of the month, December 22 between 5 - 6 at American Revolution and are dedicated to pa- Livermore Lioness Club welcomes new the corners of First and Neal Streets. Please triotism, preservation of American history and members at their regular monthly meeting on join us if you can. Call Cathe Norman at securing America's future through education. the first Tuesday of each month, at 6:30 pm. (925) 462-7495; Matt Sullivan at mjs7882@ Information, contact Maris at 443-3087. Participating in the many activities of the group gmail.com; or [email protected]. www. Widowed Men and Women of Northern is a great way to meet local people. The Lioness Pleasantonians4Peace.org CA., Lunch in Pleasanton, Nov. 30, 11:30 a.m., is a service club, sponsored by the Livermore Pleasanton Senior Center VIP Travel, RSVP to Roselyn by Nov. 26, 999-9936. Lions Club, that helps many worthy causes Wed., Dec. 8, Nunset Boulevard, presented by Daughters of the American Revolution, in our community. Lioness’s main focus are American Stage Tours in Martinez. Includes