Weber Lawsuit Goes to Court Judge Concerned Over Tree Removals for Project ➤ Page 5

Weber lawsuit goes to court Judge concerned over tree removals for project ➤ page 5

Vol. III, Number 34 • December 21, 2007 www.DanvilleWeekly.com A soldier’s Fresh signs story for Green Danville man tells Valley center about his holidayslidays NewNew ggrocer shows in Iraq wwhathat shop will ➤ page 18 llookook llike

➤ pagepag 5 MailedMaaililedd ffreereree toto hhomesomomeses iinn DDaDanville,nvnvili lel , BlBBlackhawk,ackhhawk, DDiabloiablb o anandnd AlAAlamolamamo

Joys

of the season page 14 Children’s art expresses the wonderful feelings of Christmas Here Comes Santa Claus to the Danville Livery

Photos and visits with Santa 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please bring your own camera and take pictures with Santa: Dec 20 – Dec 21 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Dec 22 – Dec 23 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Happy Holidays from the Danville Livery Shopping Center Voted Best Place to Buy a Gift by the Best of Danville Weekly, 2007

925-838-7070 www.danvillelivery.com Just off Interstate 680 at Sycamore Valley Road West & San Ramon Valley Boulevard Danville, California

Page 2 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly Welcome Add Beauty With Tile & Natural Stone Streetwise What home doesn’t look ASKED AT THE SENIOR HOLIDAY LUNCHEON. and feel better after a little facelift? The good news is it can be affordable and less time-consuming than you might think. Find out Have you ever “re-gifted” a how we can make your Q: present? home improvement ideas come to life. Our design team and professional tradesmen deliver each Yeah. I have done that. It would have to be job (small or large) with new and it would have to be something I don’t need. I would rewrap it and send it to a friend outstanding results. or relative, preferably in another state. Anne Dubail retired from the travel business www.fraziertile.com

Ken Frazier, Owner 925.648.7632 Absolutely. Anything that you can’t use should Lic. #646670 be recycled. And if that’s what “re-gifting” is, I’m all for it. I’m a consignment store owner. That’s an interesting question. Linda Stolow co-owner of the Small-Fry store

I don’t think that I would ever feel that way. If someone would give me a gift, I would cher- ish it. Tony Konecny retired teaching engineer

If it’s a gift I don’t like, I’ll give it to Goodwill, the Salvation Army or another charity. I’m afraid if I give it to a person, someone is going to know it’s a “re-gift.” Jennifer Wlasenko nurse I think everybody has done that one time or another. Sometimes you receive a gift and you accept it out of goodwill. Someday you’ll find a good use for it. Then you hang onto it for awhile and pass it to someone else. As the old saying goes: “What goes around comes around.” Len Myzells retired

COMPILED BY DANVILLE WEEKLY STAFF

ABOUT THE COVER This scene from the North Pole by Maryn Martens of the San Ramon Valley Christian Academy is sure to get everyone excited about the impending arrival of Santa. Design by Lili Cao. Vol. III, Number 34

The Danville Weekly is published every Friday by Embarcadero Publishing Co., 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100, Danville, CA 94526; (925) 837-8300. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Rates is Pending at Danville CA. The Danville Weekly is mailed free to homes and apartments in Danville, Blackhawk, Diablo and Alamo. Voluntary subscriptions at $30 per year ($50 for two years) are welcome from local residents. Subscription rate for businesses and for residents of other communities is $50 per year. © 2007 by Embarcadero Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 3 NEWSFRONT NEWS DIGEST

QUOTE OF THE WEEK The artists—who are pressed for money—are “ the ones donating. —Tracy Bauer of Alamo Danville Artists’ Society, which gives 10 percent of its earnings to school art programs.” See story, page 9.

Giants Danville outfielder signing autographs today San Francisco Giants outfielder Nate Schierholtz, a 2002 graduate of San Ramon Valley High, is returning to Danville today, Dec. 21, to sign autographs from 4-6 p.m. at the Talkin’ Baseball memorabilia store on Town and FREE Country Drive near McCaulou’s. Autographs are $10, and folks can bring their own items or purchase pictures and

baseballs for signatures at the event. -6621'( 1( ( 1#55 ( 1 -6621'( 1( ''(' ' ' Last season was Schierholtz’s first in the big leagues. Offer Expires 12-31-07 Giants managers have said that Schierholtz will be in the ' '''Some restrictions ' % apply 10 (''11 ('51 *11( '5 mix for significant playing time next season. 1'()51'( 1(1' 1 1*(%1111&1 '(1 1& &51 1&1" (1"11 1(1 “If he continues on the baseball fast track, $10 for an 1$(1'%1'( .1)' $1 *(" 1"11'%51#114 1 (311 1(1 '%1( 1 11 autographed item now might be the best investment a col- 1& &1&1! 11( 51"(%11141 1( 1 (1711'(311 1(1( 11 lector can make this year,” said store owner Ken Brison. 1 1 "1511'( 1& &1(1$ 1+1(17 ''1*1,((311(1'1(1 11&1 For more information, call the store at 743-9922. 1( 1 11 1*51' 311" (1 1(11( 1 11'(1(%(1$(151 1"1'(1*31' 1 ''1&((1 ('31$1 Chow opening in Danville Quality Windows & Doors, Inc. The Planning Commission gave the go-ahead last week Your Window & Door Specialty Store for Chow Food and Drink to open on Railroad Avenue 3732 Stanley Blvd., Pleasanton 925-484-1747 in Danville, where the Blockbuster Video Store closed recently. The majority of commissioners voted in favor of Lic. #865261 www.qwdwindowsanddoors.com the project, with Commissioner Bob Nichols voting no, said Town Attorney Rob Ewing. The restaurant will occupy the 5,184-square-foot facility What if you could have a at the Iron Horse Plaza Shopping Center, with 126 seats for seating inside and 93 outside. There will be a mezza- nine area for storage, and owners will expand the parking head-to-toe massage, lot. They will also build a new trash enclosure area to serve everyday, anytime you want? the restaurant. The small chain also has restaurants in Lafayette and Welcome to your dream come true! San Francisco.

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Page 4 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly Newsfront SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF DANVILLE • BLACKHAWK • DIABLO • ALAMO DOLORES FOX CIARDELLI DOLORES FOX CIARDELLI

Merry, merry Christmas at museum No, this isn’t grandma’s fireplace welcoming holiday vis- itors—it’s the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. The “Christmas Memories” exhibit runs through Jan. 6, with three trees displaying toys and keepsakes from the eras of 1890, 1930 and 1950. This year the display includes a restored 1937 Buick pedal car, antique wind-up toys, gingerbread houses of historic buildings and a miniature Christmas scene (right). Santa will make one more visit to the museum, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., tomorrow, Saturday, Dec. 22, a chance for parents to take photos. The museum shop offers unique gifts,

DOLORES FOX CIARDELLI including the commemorative book, “Vintage Danville: 150 DOLORES FOX CIARDELLI Years of Memories,” which can be pre-ordered for $35 to await its release this summer. The museum is located on Railroad and Prospect avenues in Danville. Call 837-3750.

Fresh and Easy market Court to decide if presents design plans Weber project could Grocer will share former Albertsons’ space with drugstore hurt environment by Natalie O’Neill building permit from the town. secondary items like pet food and Fresh and Easy spokesman Mark medication. In part, this is how they Judge focuses on town-protected trees he Danville Design Review Warden said he hoped to open the keep their prices low—similar to by Jordan M. Doronila Board factored a new drugstore in the shortest amount of Trader Joe’s philosophy. Weber estate into 22 single-family T store tenant into the equa- time possible but couldn’t estimate Board members said approval homes, it first needed to do a com- tion last week, when advising Fresh when that would be. would be contingent on the rest ill removing trees from a prehensive environmental study. and Easy representatives to keep He said part of keeping prices of the center being redone. They development in Danville Representatives of the group, the colors and design uniform with the low is through “straight forward” also noted that green and teal signs W hurt the environment? town and the project developer met rest of the shopping center. buildings. from existing tenants clash with the A judge is deliberating wheth- at a hearing in court last week. The The market will take up about 55 “We try to keep our buildings brighter green Fresh and Easy sign. er removing town-protected trees judge has approximately 90 days to percent of the 26,500-foot vacant simple,” he said. “It’s a very clean And they considered that most drug from a development on the Weber make a decision. building on Diablo Road next to concept.” store signs have red and blue cor- estate would impact the surround- “We are just waiting to see what I-680—where Albertsons once Warden said the company phi- porate colors. ing aesthetics, wildlife and oak the judge will rule,” said Town stood. It will likely share signage losophy is that everyone should “The entire center needs to be woodlands. He is reviewing a Attorney Rob Ewing. “The judge space with the pharmacy, although be able to afford healthy food. cohesive,” said board member Jim lawsuit filed by a group of 60 had some issues with the trees.” the name has not yet been con- He came to the Danville meet- Wood. Danville residents—Citizens for The council approved the Davidon firmed. ing straight from a groundbreaking The issue of sign placement was Civic Responsibility—that claims Homes proposal for the property on Changes proposed for the building ceremony for a new store in San also a topic of discussion as the board the Town of Danville violated a Blemer Road and Matadera Way, were minor—a green Fresh and Easy Francisco’s Hunters Point, a low reviewed renderings of two sign provision in a state law by OK’ing which included donating 3.7 acres sign accompanied by an overhang income area. shapes, one that was long and thin a project in April. to the town and removing 126 trees and green color scheme. The design The grocery store will offer and another that was short and fat. The group said before the to pave way for the development. board gave them the go-ahead to organic produce, fresh sandwiches, Danville Town Council gave the move on the next step, getting a meats and cheeses but will cut out ➤ Continued on page 6 approval to develop the 15-acre ➤ Continued on page 6 Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 5 NEWSFRONT Where Resale is always Upscale!! Fresh CHILDREN’S & MATERNITY CONSIGNMENT Dan Rather will ➤ Continued from page 5 Holiday Dress Sale! 50% Off all Holiday Shoes narrate DUI film The space has been vacant for Dan Rather, former news his involvement in a crash that nearly two years and was con- Closed Monday-Thursday 12/24 anchor for CBS Evening News, killed a passenger. trolled by Albertsons. Owners had thru 12/27 for the holiday week! will narrate the Troy and Alana The foundation was started to buy back the lease in order to Pack Foundation’s reality-based by Danville residents Bob and get another grocery store up and But WOW 50% off all film that chronicles four teens on Carmen Pack after a driver who running. Holiday outfits & shoes! their graduation nights. had been abusing alcohol and Co-owner Ted Peterson told the The film, “Graduation Day,” prescription painkillers killed board he regretted having the space is 30 minutes long and fol- their two children four years vacant for so long, but that he was 442 Hartz Avenue lows four high school teenagers ago in an accident. They have not in control of the lease. Danville, 94526 through their graduation and a since had a baby girl, Noelle “We were dealing with a group Mon 10-2, Tues-Sat 10-5 party during the evening. The Corinne Pack, born May 29, out of Chicago and it was really 925.820.4956 end of the film will have a tes- 2006. about money,” he said. timony by former Fox “Prison For more information and pre- The Fresh and Easy Web site Now Consigning: Snowcoats, Ski Bibs, boots & Maternity! Break” TV star Lane Garrison, view of the film, visit www. expresses its dedication to reduc- Spring Consignment starts Jan. 15th! who was recently sentenced for troyandalana.org. ing its impact on the environment, structurally and functionally at its stores. An effort to make the building structure more green, however, wasn’t discussed at the Design Wanted: Review Board. Green Valley Center is current- Reporter for the ly home to Taco Bell, Christy’s Danville Weekly Doughnuts, China Bistro, Diablo Printing and a photo shop. Peterson said Danville couldn’t Requirements: ask for a better tenant than Fresh and Easy Degree in journalism or related field The company is part of Tesco, the Experience in newspaper writing United Kingdom’s largest retailer. Curiosity about the world around you “We’re really excited about what they represent,” Peterson said. ■ – especially Danville and Alamo Desire to work hard while enjoying every minute Send resume and clips to: Weber ➤ Continued from page 5 20% OFF [email protected] everything in the store Or The Planning Division would mon- Editor, Danville Weekly itor their removal. 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100 The town’s tree ordinance states that no one can destroy or remove Danville CA 94526 a protected tree on any property in www.passionateathlete.neti t thl t t Danville without obtaining a tree removal permit from the Planning 925.931.0775 Division. Davidon did receive a GREAT 440 Main Street permit, and it would replace the 26 Downtown Pleasanton town-protected trees with younger www.DanvilleWeekly.com 925.944.1118 ones, said Town Principal Planner GIFTS Owned by Embarcadero Publishing Co. David Crompton. 8 Broadway Lane, Walnut Creek EOE; drug-free workplace “We felt that was adequate miti- gation with the removal of the trees,” Ewing said. He said the town’s defense was Ready or Not that it had complied with state law. Nonetheless, the judge still had We’re Going to Egypt! concerns about the town’s initial Donate Your Old Coat environmental studies. & Get 10% Off Any “He was worried,” said Brian Purchase Coats will be donated to Gaffney, attorney for Citizens for Shepard’s Gate Women’s Civic Responsibility. Shelter in Livermore Gaffney noted that analy- ses done by the Regional Water Quality Control Board, California Great one of a kind selections Department of Fish and Game, a Black Dress wetlands restoration ecologist and Previously owned & new designer fashions at a fraction Laundry by Shelli Segal of their original price! We specialize in your favorite $139 (orig. $270) the California Oaks Foundation said that developing the Weber prop- designer apparel, shoes & accessories. Black Lace Shoes Your tour includes: by Brian Atwood ©Kd}~Zbnwyy zw erty would impact its surroundings. Visit our new location! $199 (orig. $575) Yw wZ{{Kiw^ { An environmental report is needed ©_{w w\}~ X~Ww 560 Main St., Downtown Pleasanton before developing the estate, his | i\e Yw wb z clients said. 925 846-6600 The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce has ©JZwEId}~Z{{d{C(Junior Suite) ©Wc{w X wz~{Y{ Lucille Weber, who still lives on Hours: Mon.- Sat. 10am – 6pm partnered with King Tut Tours and Travel to offer ©X||{X{w|wZwYw the property, previously owned the Sun 11am-5pm an incredible trip at an incredible price! ©Ww{jw|{~[} ©H\zw |}~{{} fwzB 15-acre parcel. She deeded it to the We Want Your Would you like to see an amazing country and i~Bc{~BiwwwB[}w Salvation Army, which in turn sold learn about doing business in Egypt? c{BYwz{Bc {<Xwwwi~ it to Davidon. Winter Clothes! ©Z {yWYw EWwCb EYw Now, the neighbors, town and Join us for an unforgettable 10 day trip to Egypt ©by~z}~{j Yw Make money as you empty your closets! ©Wi~ {[y | Y{ Davidon await the judge’s decision April 30 - May 9, 2008 ©[}~{w}]z{zj to see if an environmental impact Want to Consign? ©W yww{<i{y{|{{ Call 925 846-6600 This trip is limited to the fi rst 60 people to sign ©Y {wa}jjw{a< report is needed. up with a paid deposit. \}~Xw} Crompton said Davidon is going Items pictured are one of a kind, Only $2836 per person, double forward with getting approvals and availability is not guaranteed. Sign up online at www.sanramon.org occupancy. Deposit of $500 for development and improve- nonrefundable is due ASAP, made Contact Kathy Gailey at 242-0600 out and sent to King Tut Tours, to ment plans. Davidon executive Jeff ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ PRADA RALPH LAUREN BEBE EILEEN FISHER LAUNDRY BCBG BY MAX AZARIA for questions. reserve your space. Final payment Thayer did not return phone calls ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ is due no later than Jan 5th, 2008. LUCKY A&F TOMMY BANANA REPUBLIC DKNY J CREW JUICY & MORE! by press time. ■ Page 6 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly NEWSFRONT Behring French Café & Bakery TAKING ORDERS FOR tells about BÛCHE DE NOËL (YULE LOGS), PIES AND PARTY PLATTERS FOR wheelchair ALL YOUR HOLIDAY GATHERINGS Voted Best giving French Restaurant UÊ-iÀÛ}ÊLÀi>v>ÃÌÊ One disabled boy ÊÊÊEÊÕV Ê`>Þ just wanted to feel the sun Ì on his shoulders UÊ"«iÊ iV°ÊÓ{ ÊÇ££>Ê ÊÊ Ãi`Ê iV°ÊÓxÌ by Natalie O’Neill www.pascalcafe.com Monday-Saturday 6:00-3:00 p.m. ~ Sunday 7:00-3:00 p.m. oney only takes you so far—then you have to find 155 Railroad Ave., Danville ~ 925.838.7349 M other things to make you happy. That’s what former Seattle Seahawks owner and Blackhawk developer Ken Behring told fifth- Showcases graders at Greenbrook Elementary School last week. Great Gift Ideas The classes he spoke to are raising money by recycling cans Jack Spade Messenger Bags and bottles in order to donate to $150 & up

Behring’s nonprofit Wheelchair NATALIE O’NEILL Foundation. Students listened qui- etly as he praised them for helping Shop for Men less fortunate young people. Lacoste “There are a lot of poor places in Scarf the world, where kids don’t have a Art of Shaving Fifth-graders at Greenbrook Elementary School ask Ken Behring questions about what $125 Brush $75 chance to be leaders like you,” he prompted him to start his nonprofit Wheelchair Foundation. Union Razor $125 told them. Sweater Stand $100 He then recalled a few short told Behring all he’d ever wanted to $250 stories about disabled people he do in life was sit in the sun, some- encountered in developing coun- thing we take for granted. After he Diesel Watch $150 tries—to illustrate whom their received a wheelchair he could go money will be helping. outside and see the world. He could “If you’re born with a disability be pushed around—and he could in those countries, you’re thrown feel the sun on his shoulders. in the back and your family is “You have to let them know you ashamed of you,” he explained. care, these people don’t think any- Behring began the Wheelchair body cares,” he said. Diesel Knit Beanie $50 Foundation in 2000 with a pledge Behring wore a big smile as the of $15 million. His mission was to kids asked him questions they pre- raise international awareness about pared for him ahead of time. They people with physical disabilities, wanted to know what countries he along with creating independence had gone to, how many wheelchairs for them through mobility. had been donated, and what made One story he told was about a him want to start the foundation. boy with cerebral palsy he met The Wheelchair Foundation has 175 E. Prospect Ave. #150, Downtown Danville Diesel Belt $50 Tel: 925-831-8500 - [email protected] overseas. After he gave the child a Ben Sherman Belt $40 Hours: Tue-Sat 10AM-6PM & Sun-Mon 11AM-5PM RVCA Belt $40 wheelchair, the boy asked, “Do you ➤ Continued on page 9 know where my father is?” “He knew someone had just dumped him,” Behring told the audience of wide-eyed 11-year- olds. In those countries, a wheelchair gives you the ability to move—and ultimately a reason to live. “They are the same as you, except they don’t have control of their body,” he said. “They aren’t able to communicate, but you look in their eyes and you can tell they appreciate it.” Teacher Pam Vamvouris said the effort to donate money to the foundation is part of character education. “We wanted to teach them that even at their age they can give back,” she said. Through interpreters, several disabled children abroad have told Behring that having the wheelchair has been the difference between wanting to live and wanting to die, he said. He illustrated that through another story. There was a young man who spent most of his life lying inside in the dark, on rags in the back of the house. Without the ability to walk or move his body, he was stuck there. With the help of a translator, he Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 7 NEWSFRONT

TAKE US ALONG

5502 Sunol Boulevard Pleasanton, CA 94566 Gregg Schnepple Lic # 0F33296 Red Square Insurance Agent 925-588-1225 [email protected] at dusk John and Gerry Washalaski Save 20% on your Auto Insurance! of Danville enjoy reading about their hometown while Save 15% on your Homeowners Insurance! visiting Moscow’s Red Square in June. Farmers gets you back where you belong. Life • Auto • Home • Business Take Us Along on your *Additional professional discounts may apply. travels and send photos to [email protected] or 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100, Danville 94526. Be sure to include a daytime telephone number.

We are proud to announce the ofﬁcial launch of Chloe & Jane, Inc. All Natural Body Care Christmas feast visit us online today! with the seniors Free Shipping + Free Gift Danville Mayor Candace with any purchase thru 12-31-07 Andersen enjoys the annual Senior Holiday Luncheon at the www.chloeandjane.com Veterans Memorial Hall on Hartz Avenue last Friday. Andersen, All Natural Body Care who was recently installed as infused with essential oils mayor, has been around and & vitamin-enriched to relax & rejuvenate about town listening to her con- in the very same moment stituents’ needs. Dozens of seniors attended the Chloe & Jane, Inc. JORDAN M. DORONILA festive luncheon and were served Danville, CA 94506 buttery rolls, turkey, and pump- toll free: 1(877)556-1217 [email protected] kin and pecan pies by helpers in Santa hats.

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Page 8 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly NEWSFRONT Artists help fund art in schools through grants ADAS gives $7,400 to Alamo and Danville programs—10 percent of its members’ earnings

by Natalie O’Neill Katharine O’Hara, teen colum- and health education. Romero Elementary and Monte expression, ADAS members say. nist for the Danville Weekly, com- “It’s a very painful process,” dis- Vista High School. “It’s therapy and release for us in If athletics are the school dis- mented on the issue in her Oct. trict spokesman Terry Koehne said “It’s whoever responds,” said a busy society,” Bauer said. trict’s strong successful son, the 19 column, “Can crushed creativ- about the budget cuts. “We try to Pauline Cortez, chairwoman of the In the past six years, ADAS arts are a neglected stepchild, mem- ity be revived?” She explained the stay as far away from the classroom program. has raised about $7,000 annually bers of the Alamo Danville Artists’ main objective in college applica- as we can.” In the San Ramon Valley, empha- to fund art in schools. And the Society say. tion letters is to be clever, creative Grant applications for CAEP sis is put on kids to test well and demand for arts education funds is So to give some tender loving and unique, and that students had funds were sent to every school in make top scores on tests, some growing every year, ADAS mem- care to what some call an underfed almost no experience doing that in the district, and schools were asked students say. bers explained. department, the group of artists Danville and Alamo schools. what supplies they needed. Every “There is a lot of parental pres- “We are subject to the California wrote checks for $7,400 in grant “What is now supposed to get school that applied received funds, sure,” Sam Kikes, a student at San economy. When it’s bad we suffer. money to 12 district schools last us into college—creativity—has including Alamo Elementary, Vista Ramon Valley High, said before And the next couple years don’t week. been carefully removed from most Grande Elementary, Charlotte graduating in June. seem to be getting any brighter,” “A lot of art teachers have to dip aspects of school curricula year Wood Middle School, Rancho Art can help with stress and Koehne said. ■ into their own pocket for supplies ... upon year,” she wrote. Funding for art programs has been The school district, which is the continuously cut back,” said Tracy fourth least funded unified school Bauer, spokeswoman for ADAS. district in the state, has been dili- OUR DESIGNERS WILL TURN YOUR OLD The money, which was dis- gent about trying to get its hands on tributed by the Community Arts state funds since 2002, the year the JEWELRY PIECES... Education Program (CAEP), was Measure A bond passed. taken from 10 percent of what art- Measure A funds must be spent …INTO THE JEWELRY YOU HAVE ists earned through sales this year. on facilities, but state funds and ALWAYS DREAMED OF! It went to paying for supplies like local donations can be used spe- canvases, brushes and moldable cifically for arts education. In the display panels at schools. 2006-07 school year the district “The artists—who are pressed received about $1,456,000—or $56 for money—are the ones donating,” per student—in state funds for art, Bauer explained. music and physical education. $ESIGNs2ESTYLEs2ESTORE$ I 2 T L 2 T More emphasis should be put on Students and parents often hold arts in the district, she said, because car washes, bake sales and other creativity and problem-solving in fundraisers but they are more often spatial relationships are used in held to benefit athletics than arts. 181 Market Place 1600 #B Contra Costa Blvd. nearly every career. In the district, $15 million in bud- San Ramon Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 “There is a lot of academic get cuts were made during about a 925-685-2943 pressure to achieve in predictable three-year period starting in 2000. 925-830-9130 textbook ways ... Why is art less A slump in the California economy www.jewelsmiths.com important than these other areas?” in 2003 then threatened more cuts she said. to administration, music programs

and South America. Behring As for what prompted him to Go with the big national lender, ➤ Continued from page 7 start the foundation? When you’ve got everything—giving is the only thing left to do, he said. from down the block. donated over 650,000 chairs in To find out more or donate to the more than 145 countries worldwide Wheelchair Foundation, visit www. including Africa, the Middle East wheelchairfoundation.org. ■ Whatever your needs, we can help you find the right loan.

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Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 9 Diablo Views It’s the season of giving! BY DOLORES FOX CIARDELLI Give that someone you care about Demise of the yule log the gift of health hestnuts roasting on would only be in the living room the floor in front of their family’s tion when he came to dinner from We can customize an open fire,” croons for an hour or so, we wouldn’t light paper shredder and watch their let- his home in San Francisco. We had any basket you want. “CBing Crosby every a fire, although we really wanted ters get sliced into oblivion. the fire burning from the time our Christmastime. Well, bada Bing! I one on cold winter afternoons or Now that wood-burning fireplaces guests arrived and all through din- have a question for you: Can one evenings. Now we just switch our are discouraged, and in many plac- ner and no one said a word. Finally, roast chestnuts on a gas fire? I fear gas fireplace on and off at will. Got es outlawed, due to environmental as half of us still sat at the table but Come in and we’ll help the answer would be a big N-O. a half hour? Pull up in front of the concerns, what has happened to the Pepe perched on a footstool to warm you put one together. Yet another tradition now a thing fireplace and enjoy a cup of tea. traditional yule log? Jim and our himself by the fire, Jim asked him if of the past. son Pepe used to take great care in it needed another log. He glanced We replaced our fireplace with picking the biggest, best-shaped log over and said, no, it looked fine. 15% OFF gas about 10 years ago. It was my “Now yule logs burn in the woodpile for this honor each Perhaps he was distracted by the your entire purchase husband Jim’s idea actually, once during the Christmas Christmas Eve, which they would girlfriend he had brought to dinner. he caught on to the fact that one manfully bring into the house while Jim asked him to look harder. And could have a beautiful roaring fire season only on our our young daughter Zoe and I oohed then—the outrage! The scorn! “But without hauling in the wood and TV screens.” and aahed. you taught me to build a fire!” he kindling, rolling the newspapers We have a yule log is our office railed at Jim. “It was an important tightly, placing everything just so right now that was decorated by lesson—to be a man!” Gee, said and babying it until it caught. This a Boy Scout as a fundraiser. It Jim, he didn’t know Pepe had been was his job, a “man” job. My job There are times when a real fire looks lovely, adorned by real holly listening. was to make sure we had wood. Our is important. Such as for burning with berries and pine branches and Now Pepe lives in Berlin, where Livorna Swim Team used to sell it things. I remember when I was a a scroll explaining the history of chestnuts are roasting over coals on by the half-cord; later I bought it in teenager and had a painful breakup the yule log, but what will be its street corners and at the Christmas big handy boxes from Safeway. I with a boyfriend. I carried a shoe- fate come Christmas? At one time, markets, to be savored along with also got to do the cleanup. box filled with his letters into the the decorations would have been the hot mulled wine. I don’t think The biggest downside of the living room, sat on the floor in removed and it would have had we could roast them in our gas fire- “real” fire was that it would be front of the fireplace and, one by the place of honor in the fireplace. place—but then, to tell the truth, burning beautifully in our living one, watched his false declarations Now yule logs burn during the we never did. 9000 Crow Canyon Rd Suite T room but we would want to do of love go up in flames. The finality Christmas season only on our TV Coming next week: “Jack Frost Danville, CA 94506 something else in another room, of it—and the twisting and distort- screens. nipping on your nose.” 925.648.2329 like watch TV in the family room, ing of the pages as they turned into We installed our gas fireplace —Dolores Fox Ciardelli (Shopping center across from Safeway) or do something in the kitchen, ashes—was strangely satisfying. I shortly before Thanksgiving and can be e-mailed at or go to bed. Often, knowing we guess these days, teenagers sit on were looking forward to Pepe’s reac- [email protected].

Celebrate his birth! Special Service Times Saturday Dec. 22 6:00 pm Sunday Dec. 23 9:00 & 10:30 am Sunday Dec. 30 9:00 & 10:30 am

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Page 10 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly Perspective Serving the communities EDITORIALS • LETTERS • OPINIONS ABOUT LOCAL ISSUES IN OUR COMMUNITY of Danville, Blackhawk, Diablo and Alamo

PUBLISHER EDITORIAL • THE OPINION OF THE WEEKLY Gina Channell-Allen Guest Opinion EDITORIAL The perfect gift Editor Dolores Fox Ciardelli When we were asking our Streetwise question last Staff Reporters week—What would you do if you were alone on Domestic violence Jordan M. Doronila Christmas?—one woman talked about working at an Natalie O’Neill animal shelter. She also told the reporter something hits the holidays Contributors interesting: Some shelters say they have plenty of vol- Geoff Gillette unteers on Christmas Day; but they need them badly The holiday season is a time of • If you are hurting some you love: Beverly Lane every other day of the year. Jacqui Love Marshall merriment, family and peace, but 676-2968 Katharine O’Hara The Volunteer Center of Contra Costa, which works for too many families in Contra • Calling from outside Contra Costa Gregory Peebles out of an office in Walnut Creek, links volunteers with Costa County this holiday season County: 1-800-799-7233 Heidi Strand opportunities. It lists special ways to help during the has none of those qualities. This • To volunteer: 676-2945 season, like every season for fami- As the sole provider of compre- Christina Straw holidays. One was to distribute Christmas food, part- lies struggling with domestic vio- hensive domestic violence services nering with the Bay Area Rescue Mission to deliver lence, is a time of anxiety and fear. for victims of domestic violence ART & PRODUCTION boxes to 500 families in need. Another opportunity was Fear of a family member or partner in Contra Costa County, STAND! Art Director/ to assemble food and toys for families. Another gift who turns home from haven to provides a critical resource as it Operations Manager giveaway needed help in its Richmond warehouse. hell. Ashamed and terrified, vic- moves women and their children Shannon Corey Volunteers were still tims of domestic violence become from dangerous, violent situations Designers hostages in their own homes. to safe, supportive homes, where Trina Cannon needed for Sunday, Dec. STAND! Against Domestic fear and anxiety is no longer a part Lili Cao 23, to wrap Barnes & Violence’s emergency housing is of their lives. STAND!’s services Kristin Herman Noble purchases in the Some shelters say often the only safe place these include peer support groups, coun- Manuel Valenzuela entrance of the store they have plenty women and children have to go. seling for women and children pro- in downtown Walnut of volunteers on STAND!’s crisis line is available vided by caring, supportive staff, ADVERTISING Creek. Two volun- 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for life skills classes, legal services, as Advertising Manager Christmas Day; anyone who needs it. Here are the well as jobs and education. Mary Hantos teers at a time work telephone numbers: —STAND! Advertising in three-hour shifts at but they need them • 24-hour crisis line: 1-888-215- Against Domestic Violence Account Executive the gift-wrapping table badly every other day 5555 Leslie Mooldyk and donations go to of the year. General and Real Estate Las Trampas, which Account Executive supports adults with LETTER TO Terry Bertolini developmental disabil- THE EDITOR Classified Advertising Susan Thomas ities to lead fuller lives in their homes, at work and in the community. Past volunteers said it was a great way Mayors don’t rotate to get into the Christmas spirit. BUSINESS Another fun way to volunteer was to go Christmas car- Dear Editor: I found your Dec. 14 editorial, Office Manager oling at hospitals. The group is called Love is the Answer Amory Gutierrez “New mayor for Danville,” very Ad Services (LITA) and although its caroling is finished for this year, interesting, and in part very true, Sandy Lee it’s a fun volunteering opportunity to keep in mind. yet, also in part inaccurate. As The Volunteer Center has more than 600 opportuni- a 22-plus year politically active Business Associate ties available for community volunteers year-round. resident of Danville, I have the Lisa Oefelein knowledge to judge. It is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. five days a week and The paragraph about Mike Circulation Manager Wednesday evening until 8 p.m. Call 472-5768 to find Bob Lampkin Shimansky’s service as mayor in out more. Its Web site is www.helpnow.org. 2007 was accurate and deserv- How to reach the Weekly Or visit www.volunteermatch.org and enter your edly complimentary. However Neighborhood Brewpub ZIP code to find out where to volunteer within the in the preceding paragraph, the 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100 distance you want to travel, starting within five miles. phrase, “The mayoral position Danville, CA 94526 rotates among the five Danville It lists everything from Hope Hospice home or office Town Council positions,” is 30 BEERS ON TAP Phone: (925) 837-8300 volunteers—to animal shelters. Fax: (925) 837-2278 false. In the past Shimansky, Editorial e-mail: for example, has been skipped [email protected] twice when it was his “turn” to Calendar: DanvilleWeekly.com be mayor. Code of ethics The Danville Weekly seeks to adhere to the highest level Display Sales e-mail: of ethical standards in journalism, including the Code of Ethics adopted Sept. On Dec. 4, Mayor Candace [email protected] 21, 1996, by the Society of Professional Journalists. To review the text of the Andersen, Vice Mayor Newell Holiday Gift Classifieds Sales e-mail: Code, please visit our web site at www.DanvilleWeekly.com Arnerich, and Councilman Mike Cards for [email protected] Doyle, recipient of a public ser- Friends and Circulation e-mail: YOUR TURN vice award, were all unanimous Famiy [email protected] actions. Andersen, Arnerich and The Danville Weekly encourages comments on our coverage or on issues of Doyle are also the three council The Danville Weekly is published every local interest. The deadline is 5 p.m. Monday for that Friday’s edition. members up for re-election in Friday by Embarcadero Publishing Co., 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100, Danville, Submit Letters to the Editor of up to 250 words to [email protected]. 2008. Coincidence, or a violation CA 94526; (925) 837-8300. Include your name, address and daytime phone number so we can reach you. We of the Ralph M. Brown Act? Try Our Holiday Beers! Mailed at Standard Postage Rate. The reserve the right to edit contributions for length, objectionable content, libel and “How many times can a man Danville Weekly is mailed free to homes factual errors known to us. Anonymous letters will generally not be accepted. and apartments in Danville, Blackhawk, turn his head, and pretend that he Diablo and Alamo. Voluntary subscriptions Submitting a letter to the editor or guest opinion constitutes a granting of per- just doesn’t see? The answer my San Ramon at $30 per year ($50 for two years) are wel- mission to the Danville Weekly and Embarcadero Publishing Co. to also publish friend is blowin’ in the wind, the come from local residents. it online, including in our online archives and as a post on Town answer is blowin’ in the wind,”… (925) 277-9600 Subscription rate for businesses and for residents of other communities is $50/year. Square. Bob Dylan, 1963 470 Market Place © 2007 by Embarcadero Publishing Co. For more information, contact Dolores Ciardelli, editor, at 837- Ralph Hoffmann, Walnut Creek All rights reserved. Reproduction 8300, ext. 29. www.hopyard.com without permission is strictly prohibited.

Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 11 Sports A LOOK AT THE LOCAL SPORTS SCENE PREP SCHEDULE Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 20-22 Wednesday-Saturday, Dec. 26-29

Women’s Soccer Men’s Basketball Tri-Valley Classic Tournament at Modesto Christian Tournament Sycamore/MSC Women’s Basketball Friday, Dec. 21 Costa Mesa Tournament Men’s Basketball Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 27-29 Monte Vista at Serra, 7:30 p.m. Men’s Basketball Saturday, Dec. 22 St. Francis Tournament at Mountain View The Mustang U-13 Crew District Cup winners are (front, l-r) Sam Sarver, Andy Zeiger, Austin Kurtz, Sammy Yorke, Wyatt Martin, Tony Bell; (back) Coach Gabe Tanaka, Cameron Lober, Max Shore, Mat Maxwell, Aidan Struck, Ryan Reder, Dallas Stevens, Nick Amador, Women’s Basketball Women’s Basketball San Ramon Valley at Mission San Jose, Newark Memorial Tournament Conner Tetzloff, Chris TT DaSilva, Coach Craig Kurts; (lying down) Jake Nobriga; not shown: Coach Edmund Eusebio. Newark, 6 p.m. ’Twas the Weekend of District Cup by Christine Reder such a matter The team spoke a few words, but The parents and coaches making went straight to work. was the weekend of such chatter. They held their own with the Storm, District Cup, when all The Crew had come to take names this achievement a major perk. ’Tabout the grass Winning not one, two, three, but All the players were stirring, wait- four shutout games. Now Sam and Nick! Now Sammy! ing for a pass. Now Tony and Wyatt All eleven carefully placed on the Now Aidan! Now Max! Now Put your game on; it’s time for a riot! field with care Austin and Cameron Getting even with the Blast was In hopes that a gold trophy soon On Chris! On, Connor! On, Dallas what the team would do. would be there. and Matt! The Crew came to show them they Mavericks battle ’til the end To the top of the goal! To the top would stick together like glue. The Mavericks, an U11 Division 3 Red Team, played in the District Cup on The Crew arose up early and out of with the ball! Dec. 1-2 and ended up going to the Championship game. They tied 0-0, then their beds Now dash away! Dash away! Dash The team sprang to their feet, as the went to two 10-minute overtimes, then into penalty kicks. They placed sec- While visions of blasting their away all! ref gave a whistle ond in the District Cup. Team members are (back, l-r) Coach Steve Sidore, opponents danced in their heads. And away they all flew like the And Craig and Gabe at the helm A few obstacles stood in the way, down of a thistle. Alexis Baillie, Mackenzie Shrieve, Corinne Lafayette, Michelle Morones, Stood on the sideline about to be but there was no stopping them “We are the champions” was heard Christina Chace, Kyndel Sidore, Jenna Chase, Sabrina Chiang, Sarah overwhelmed. today as we all drove out of sight. Wayland, Coach Chris Gil, Coach Rob Hansen; (front) Chloe Winn, Emma With Jake coaching from the side and Happy District Cup to all, and to all Gil, Sonali Verma, Sophia Tomei, Christy Hammill and Brianna Engle. When out on the lawn there arose Ryan and Andy determined to play. a good night!

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Danville Weekly • December 21 , 2007 • Page 13 COVERCOVECOVER STORY

AmeliaAmeelia Clute,C second grade, Joys St.St. Isidore’sIsido School

of the season by Jordan M. Doronila Children’s art expresses the wonderful feelings of Christmas

he ho-ho-holidays are arriving like winter Second-grade students at St. Isidore’s made glit- snowflakes, as families begin to celebrate. tering, ornamental birds under the supervision of art Feel the warmth of cozy fires, hear the joy of instructor Katie Mirault. Her eighth-graders studied theT carols and the bells, and smell the favorite foods positive/negative images in their holiday designs. that are prepared at this time each year. Those at the Christian Academy created a myriad The holidays have inspired children at San Ramon of pictures in Christmas themes with art teacher Bill Valley Christian Academy and St. Isidore’s School in Di Michele, who encouraged his students to find the Danville to create art that reflects an endearing spirit holiday spirit in their artwork. They used pastels and of giving, hope and memories. Art teachers have been colored pencils. working with students to come up with interesting Enjoy the children’s art—as a gift of the holiday pieces to express the warm feelings of the season. season. ■

Raquel Royal, eighth grade, San Ramon Valley Christian Academy

Camille Debreczeny, eighth grade, San Ramon Valley Christian Academy

Annie Raines, second grade, St. Isidore’s School

JenniferJ Kolander, seventh grade, SanS Ramon Valley Christian Academy Brittany McIntosh, sixth grade, San Ramon Valley Christian Academy

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Page 16 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly COVER STORY

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Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 17 Living PEOPLEChristmas & LIFESTYLES IN OUR COMMUNITY in Iraq CUTS EI OTNCOURTESY FELIX BOSTON COURTESY FELIX BOSTON

Young Iraqi interpreter Ayet and Moroccan interpreter Jamie help Boston communicate with locals. The Danville man says honesty goes a long way when talking with civilians.

Danville reservist tells about life near the Green Zone COURTESY FELIX BOSTON COURTESY

Lt. Col. Felix Boston and American interpreter Bob Prince map out the route for a day of rebuilding northwest- Boston teams up with Iraqi community leaders—including this local sheikh—to work on provincial reconstruc- ern Iraq. tion.

by Natalie O’Neill he says. Liberty, he says, although he adds that home- men ages 18-21. While that demographic is Last week the American military death toll made brownies are an exception to the rule. generally outside “the wire” and involved in rom a gravel parking lot five miles out- reached 3,888. According to Iraqi Body Count, “We don’t need more candy. Someone sent combat, the bulk of Americans that Boston side Baghdad’s precarious Green Zone, an independent organization tracking the coun- a daily newspaper and people were more comes in contact with are middle-aged civil- F Lt. Col. Felix Boston is losing reception try’s death toll, more than 78,500 Iraqi civilians interested in that,” he says. ian contractors on base. on his cell phone. have died in war-related incidents since 2003. His friends joke there is so much food Boston is part of the 2nd Brigade Combat He walks a few feet. The numbers are grim, but Boston says at Camp Liberty, they should be sending it Team, 1st Infantry Division and agreed to “Can you hear me now?” he asks. he’s hopeful. home to civilians. come out of a command assignment in civil It’s 10 p.m. at Camp Liberty and the 50-de- “It’s getting better. You have to be honest The level of comfort that service members affairs to be the deputy of the team. gree evening is winding down as Boston with them and try to help them,” he explains. have on base is one thing that’s unique about He moved from Texas in 1990 and had been explains a day in the life of soldiers in north November marked the lowest death tolls the war, he says. At his base there’s a food in the Air Force for 12 years before he joined western Iraq. for both military service members and Iraqis court, big screen TVs, new release (albeit the Army 13 years ago. He is scheduled to “Most people will never fire their weap- since February 2006, when the bombing of bootleg) DVDs, cold drinks, work-out facili- arrive back in the States in late March. ons, but they could die any minute,” he says. a Shiite shrine set off a violent retaliation, ties and air conditioning. Boston had to relinquish his insurance “We’re just trying to make things better over according to the Associated Press. But outside, where the front line is essen- business of 17 years when he was deployed, here, so we can go home.” In the past three months, Boston says he’s tially invisible, every person and object must and he has nothing set up for the spring. On this Tuesday, exactly two weeks before seen about 250 businesses open in his area. be thought of as a potential explosive device. “He’s got a good heart,” Steve Luehe, a Christmas, Boston is finishing up adminis- Previously there were only about 50, he says. In the summer months, temperatures climb friend who is concerned that Army reservists trative work. He’s handling paperwork, not When it comes to rebuilding Iraq, noth- into the mid 130s—and they nonetheless aren’t protected enough by their employers ammo. But this is just one Tuesday—24 ing much changes on Christmas Day—or keep wearing their 60 pounds of gear. after they are activated. hours—in a place where even the most mun- Thanksgiving, or Hanukkah for that matter. “It’s not like the John Wayne movies, we Boston said he’d rather not comment on dane hour could be his last. “It’s pretty much a normal workday, maybe only shoot people when they are shooting at the issue. Up until last spring, the 57-year-old Danville with a little more decorations... You’re not us,” he says. American reserve soldiers perform part- Army reservist sold insurance on Front Street. around your relatives and neighbors, but Many of the men and women who work time but can be called upon at any time to Now he’s at the forefront of “provincial you’re around military members and that’s with Boston on provincial reconstruction do full-time duty. When they are activated in reconstruction”—a fancy name for rebuilding your family. Everything you do is for the guy have to learn how to be engineers and diplo- times of war they must sometimes abruptly schools, businesses, power plants and sewers. next to you,” Boston says. mats on the spot, he said. uproot their lives, including jobs and per- In nine months, Boston has gone from insur- In Iraq, military holidays are generally “The way it’s been working is someone will sonal relationships. Often after serving duty, ance agent to international diplomat, complete defined by more food and more time to sleep. say, ‘I need a sewer guy,’ and, well, he majored employers have filled their positions and with a translator, body armor and rifle. On Thanksgiving, he says the most notable in English but he’s gonna learn,” Boston says. can’t or won’t hire them back. To the locals he works with, he’s the face change on base was that the cafeteria was Provincial readiness teams consist of a In March, Boston plans to fly into North of the American military. He’s side by side open longer. senior State Department officer as the team Carolina and take a cross-county motorcycle Iraqi community leaders and businessmen, A lot of people don’t know how much leader, a civil affairs officer as the deputy trip back home in order to unwind. He’s says and he knows firsthand the attitudes of those great food is at the base, he says, including team leader, and up to nine other members he’s most looking forward to visiting his old Iraqi civilians. “the best pecan pie you’ve ever had.” with a variety of skill sets. friends and seeing his black Labrador, Mabel. “The guys that used to shoot at us, now Sending holiday food packages to soldiers One common misconception is that most “It’s getting safer over here—but there is they’re on our side. They’re tired of the war,” isn’t the best choice if they are at Camp Americans in and near Baghdad are young still a long way to go,” he says. ■ Page 18 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly The Wine Guy We are a Complete... BY GREGORY PEEBLES Kitchen and Bath ples of this region’s benchmark Only the Aussies red varietal worth searching for Showroom include Barossa Valley Estate’s 2006 Tait Wines “E&E Black Pepper,” Wolf Blass’ “The Ball Buster” Shiraz “Platinum Label” and Grant (Barossa Valley, South Australia) Burge’s “Meshach.” ...Since 1976. (Draeger’s Market—Blackhawk, Australia continues to maintain a well deserved reputation for pro- $18.99) 580 ducing some of the world’s abso- 680

dmittedly, the name played lute best price-to-value wines. Sunol Blvd Exit a huge role in my deci- Unfortunately, that status is being 1/4 Mile East A sion to review this Shiraz. threatened by Mother Nature. South LUMBER & HARDWARE CLOSED SUNDAYS A man looks for a big, juicy red Australia, with more acreage (over and discovers a wine labeled “The 173,000) dedicated to grape vines 5505 Sunol Boulevard, Pleasanton • 925 846 5040 Ball Buster”—it’s like a moth’s than any other state in the nation, is instinctual attraction to a Coleman being drastically impacted by two lantern. I could not resist the pur- alcohol, but it’s surprisingly not the years of extreme drought—perhaps chase despite the numerous strolls case at all. the lowest rainfall totals since 1919. Are you paying too through Draeger’s extensive wine • Palate: A blend of 78 percent As a result, some wineries have department searching for a more Shiraz, 12 percent Cabernet experienced harvests approaching classy sounding choice. Sauvignon and 10 percent Merlot only 60 percent of normal and total much for COBRA? By creating such a name, wine- provides pinpoint examples of juicy wine production is really suffering. Or do you just need individual or group maker Bruno Tait set my expecta- red raspberry, deep black cherry The bottom line: Buy wines like health coverage at affordable rates? tions quite high. Although Bruno’s and lush plum. Flavors are bright, Tait while you can for prices will Call today to save money! version is not in the same “ball not brooding, and brimming with most likely increase. How much? buster” league as brash stand-up life-giving acidity. It’s shockingly It’s yet to be determined. Price comedians Bobby Slayton and the well balanced. Again, the restrained increases may be even more dra- Charlene Beasley late Lenny Bruce or even my pal impact of the considerable alcohol matic should the U.S. dollar lose Lic#0C26292 Rodger from Long Island, it’s a level is a pleasant surprise. its current, modest strength against Beasley Insurance Services darn tasty Shiraz which exceeded • Finish: Elegant; full of ripe ber- Australia’s currency. my expectations in many respects ries, vanilla and a splash of caffé What should you throw on the bar- 925-803-9799 and is certainly worthy of your latté. bie to accompany “The Ball Buster”? www.beasleyinsurance.com hard-earned cash. Here’s why: No doubt, “The Ball Buster” is a Perhaps a kangaroo filet would be • Color: Purple, purple and more big wine. A huge, bungling, over- recommended by the Australian purple. This uniform color spec- ly alcoholic, out-of-balance fruit locals, but since you’re in the beau- Plans trum is indicative of a very young bomb it is not. It’s a ripe, broad tiful East Bay suburbs, try a grilled red wine. shouldered, 100 percent enjoyable pepper steak, lamb, duck or venison. • Nose: Oodles of fresh raspberry, bottle of very well made Shiraz Let your palate be the judge. as low as blueberry, blackberry and cassis (with a cool name). Cheers, mates! aromas are supported by touches of Although Cabernet Sauvignon Have comments or questions mint, eucalyptus and dusty earth. and Grenache play prominent about wine? Gregory Peebles, wine 00 One would expect a “hot,” even roles in South Australia’s Barossa industry professional and East per offensive, aspect to the nose since Valley as well, Shiraz is the star Bay resident, can be contacted at $39 month the wine sports nearly 16 percent attraction. Three top-shelf exam- [email protected]. *Based on HealthNet PPO-HSA plan for singles age 19-29 The Pet Vet says... Free Quote go to www.beasleyinsurance.com BY DR. HEIDI STRAND Catfights in the home FREE LUNCH Q. I have two female cats, each being hurt or is hiding excessively, chair or cat tree. You may need to about 3 years old. They are a couple then you need to intervene. provide additional “prime spots.” of months apart, and we have had Often a surge in dominance behav- Three-dimensional spaces such 7 DAYS A WEEK them since they were kittens. One is ior is associated with a perceived as kitty condos or cardboard boxes a little bigger than the other and she threat to her territory. Changes in the will increase their perception of fights with the smaller one. I feel household such as a move, a new safety. If they only fight in front of lunch only 11-3 so bad because the smaller one is pet, a new baby, or new cat in the you, perhaps they need more one- always getting beaten up and when neighborhood can all cause increased on-one attention with you. Your Buy 3 lunches—4th lunch is FREE, I pet her head it always feels like aggressive behavior. But the most goal is to reduce the aggression to Good for parties up to 20 people she has scabs. What can I do about common cause is fighting over an acceptable level. It will probably this? I thought about getting them resources. Your cats’ resources are not be eliminated completely. declawed, since we live in an apart- their space, food and litter boxes, and I do not think declawing would ment and they do not go outside, but to some extent, their people. Because help this problem in any way. You 50% off all draft beer I have heard conflicting opinions you live in an apartment, they are can learn more about declawing at about this procedure. Is this safe, or probably fighting over resources. www.eastbayspca.org/petowner- with lunch on Monday will it hurt them? Is there anything But, you say, they got along great ship. Additionally, you may want to else than can be done? while they were young. It is typi- have the bumps on your cat’s head A. There is always going to be some cal for cats to start to fight when checked out by your veterinarian to 50% off Wine Wednesday amount of conflict in a multiple cat one or both reaches social maturity, make sure it is in fact trauma and (selected brands) with lunch home. Felines are territorial animals between 2 and 5 years of age. This not dermatitis or a flea allergy. Your and the dominant cat continually is when they start to recognize what kitties are fortunate to have an owner reasserts her dominance by “beating their resources are and whether they who cares about them enough to help 50% off house margarita up” on the submissive cat. Usually need to have control over them. them solve their kitty problems. with lunch on Friday the dominant cat will approach the I would recommend providing two other with hissing or stalking behav- sets of food and water dishes and —Dr. Heidi Strand is a veteri- ior. If that doesn’t chase the submis- two litter boxes in separate locations. narian for the East Bay SPCA in sive cat away, she will progress to Ideally, the cats cannot see each other Dublin. Questions can be mailed 500 Sycamore Valley Road West swatting, wrestling or biting. These from each location. Watch the cats to 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100, kinds of interactions are normal. closely to see if they are fighting over Danville 94526; or e-mailed to Danville . In the Livery . 925.831.3644 However, if the submissive cat is a particular space such as a preferred [email protected]. Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 19 LIVING Great Gift OF NOTE Giving birthday girl Ideas The World is in Your Hands! “Best Manicure/ Pedicure in Danville” See our large selection of desk and ﬂoor standing globes by Replogle From $45

Give the gift of Indulgence! A Pinkies Gift Card. Danville resident Alexa Sheldon Call, stop by or order online asked her friends to give her toys to donate to Toys for Tots to 925-743-9000 925-901-1500 celebrate her 12th birthday last Danville Livery Crow Canyon Commons month. Sheldon, a sixth-grader at Los Cerros Middle School, www.pinkiesnailsalons.com took 12 friends to see the film Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek (925) 988-9098 “Enchanted” on Nov. 29 and asked them for the toys instead of giving her presents. This is her third year making this birthday request, said her mother Heidi Sheldon. She donates the toys at law offices at the Doyle The holidays can House, 571 Hartz Ave. The Toys for Toys program is sponsored by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, reveal some changes and its goal is to collect and distribute toys to needy children during Christmas. in your parents. Montair earns $1 each to give Sunrise Senior Living can help. to others

Disinterest in regular activities. Unusual forgetfulness. Changes in behavior. The holidays can make you aware of subtle changes in a senior loved one that may concern you. Sunrise Senior Living can help you recognize the significance of these changes and help you plan ahead for choices you need to make. Our resident-centered approach to senior living puts seniors first, giving them options to meet their

individual needs and wishes. We offer a variety of living arrangements, personalized assistance and care, Montair Elementary School stu- quality amenities and services, delicious meals, stimulating activities and scheduled group outings. dents in Danville raised $731 to buy new uniforms for their sister school, E.M. Downer Elementary Visit or call Sunrise Senior Living today and let us be your resource for senior living options. In Danville School in San Pablo. Students we offer Assisted Living and Alzheimer’s Care. raised money after learning that Downer students needed new uniforms, which the public school pupils wear. Move in by January 15th and save up to $4000.* The students worked through the Cross-County School Partner’s Program, which provides support to schools in disadvantaged areas in Contra Costa County. Each child was encouraged to earn $1 and *Offer based on select suites when donate it; this paid for 42 uniforms, you move in on or before 1/15/08. plus a $200 donation. Other restrictions may apply. “The kids were so excited about this,” said Marisa O’Rielly, Cross- RCFE # 075600281 County representative for Montair’s PTA. “We are very blessed to live in Sunrise of Danville 925-831-1740 1027 Diablo Rd, Danville, CA 94526 an area that has top-notch schools; however, this is not the case for ÃÃÃÌi`ÊÛ}ÊÊUÊÊâ iiÀ½ÃÊ >Ài everyone.” “It’s critical that our students For more information and a FREE online newsletter, visit know this,” she added. www.sunriseseniorliving.com Page 20 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly LIVING 925- Add your 2 cents to 820-0185 319 Diablo Rd. Ste. 202 Danville Presenting the Past Town-Town www.gaylerconstruction.com BY BEVERLY LANE SquareSquare Improving Lives Lic. #384275 through Rose remembers WWI www.DanvilleWeekly.com Fine Designs, Remodels & Additions

OUR TALENTED DESIGNERS KNOW HOW TO MAKE EXCEPTIONAL KITCHENS...

“SAN RAMON VALLEY: ALAMO, DANVILLE, AND SAN RAMON” BY BEVERLY LANE AND RALPH COZINE

The Peters family on the front steps of the farmhouse, about 1912; (l-r) Ed, Rose Lawrence Peters, Rose, Evelyn, Joe Peters and Frances.

remarkable woman’s increase in the yield per acre. memoirs of growing up “Everyone was very patriotic. Ain the San Ramon Valley Danville held parades and flag-wav- was published in 2003. The ing kids piled into trucks, singing book is titled “Footprints in the ‘Over There,’ and there was a fash- Soil. A Portuguese-Californian ion among young women for wear- Remembers” and was written by ing khaki dresses. My half-brothers Pleasanton Danville Rose Peters Emery when she was were too old to go as soldiers, my 3732 Stanley Boulevard, 228 Railroad Avenue, 97. brothers too young. But two of 925-417-7453 925-837-3680 Rose Peters Emery tells the my cousins went, sons of Mama’s story of her family, who lived sisters, Mary Freitas and Louise Full In-House Remodeling Services Available in Bollinger Canyon and on San Bettencourt. They later came home Ramon Valley Boulevard (today’s safely. In all, the war didn’t have a Serving The Tri-Valley Since 1990 Danville Ranch). Her father, Joe lot of impact on the lives of us kids Pires Azevedo (Joe Peters) emi- on the ranch and we had no idea at grated from the Azores Islands in all what the political issues were or 1872 at age 18; her mother was why we were fighting.” Rose Lawrence from Tassajara “A great many people lost their Valley. Mrs. Emery’s book tells lives during the great flu epidemic about life on the Peters Ranch, of 1918. We were instructed in at San Ramon Grammar School school to wear gauze masks in the (1911-19) and San Ramon Valley hope of warding off the disease. Union High School (1919-23). That did our family no good; all Here is a short excerpt about nine of us came down with it. Either World War I and the flu epidemic we were remarkably strong or we of 1918: didn’t have the most severe form, “In 1917, when I was in the sev- because it seemed to us only a little enth grade, the United States entered worse than the usual flu, with its World War I. Shortly thereafter, fever, cough, and aches and pains. Mary and Mira More, unmarried We had no idea that millions of sisters who, though middle-aged, people worldwide were dying of it. were always known as ‘the More Fortunately, dear, kind Mrs. Penn, a girls,’ came to our house. As their nurse from Danville, took charge of contribution to the war effort, they cooking, feeding and sponge baths. were going around the area teach- She pulled us all through. ing grade schoolers to knit. We girls “I remember my father paying would knit wool strips of alternat- her at least once with a huge, shin- ing pink and blue squares which ing gold piece which he fished were later sewed together to make from a small leather sack he car- ‘Blankets for Belgian Babies.’ ried in his pocket. My mother gave “The boys used thick wooden her a handsome square scarf which needles to knit strips of cotton Papa’s sister had sent from the material for use as mop rags. We Azores. Nothing would have been kids also saved tinfoil, and we too good for her.” gathered black walnuts because we Many old timers remember Peters were told they would be used in Hill, which is near today’s intersec- making gas masks. Everyone was tion of Greenbrook Drive and San asked to save white flour for ‘Our Ramon Valley Boulevard. A plaque Boys,’ so Mama baked rye and in honor of the Peters family has corn breads for the family. been placed by the homeowners in “As a food conservation mea- front of the Danville Ranch House. sure, several government inspectors Source: Rose Emery’s taught local farmers to poison the “Footprints in the Soil,” (pages ground squirrels that ate so much 134-5, 145-6). It is available at the wheat. My father learned to make Museum of the San Ramon Valley balls of sacking, saturate them with for $14. carbon bisulfide, poke them into Beverly Lane, a longtime Danville the squirrel burrows, then stop up resident, is curator of the Museum of the entrances with dirt. Many were the San Ramon Valley and co-author of killed in this way, though some “San Ramon Valley: Alamo, Danville, survived, and it did lead to a small and San Ramon.” Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 21 Community Pulse POLICE BULLETIN & LOG • OBITUARIES • BIRTHS & WEDDINGS Jumpstart Your Weight Loss POLICE BULLETIN Jumpstart Medicine offers a medically supervised weight loss program individually designed for men and women looking to lose weight safely and quickly. On average, our patients Upscale burglary lose 2 to 5 pounds per week over the course of 12 weeks. Most patients feel great, have no The burglary was discovered Monday morning, cravings, and stay highly motivated due to quick results which they can see and feel. Fine wine, vodka and $1,000 were stolen from Worth said. the Peasant and the Pear in Danville. The restaurant apparently was entered through How much do you want to lose? The burglary occurred at the restaurant on Hartz the back door by pushing it open, said Worth. Avenue on Dec. 9, said restaurant owner Rodney He noted that police are still looking for leads. Worth. High-end wine worth $5,000 was stolen, “It’s sad,” Worth said. “It’s during Christmas. as well as $1,000 from a safe. Among the upscale You wouldn’t think it would happen in a commu- wines taken were Opus One, Joseph Phelps and nity like this.” Silverado, he said, noting that a case of each was “This is the first time in four years that this hap- Walnut Creek • San Ramon • 925-277-1123 • www.jumpstartmedicine.com stolen. Also four cases of Grey Goose Vodka and pened,” he added. Ketel One Vodka were taken. —Jordan M. Doronila

When you bought your home, POLICE LOG you most likely made a big MISTAKE... The Danville Police Department made at 3:34 p.m. at 7:29 p.m. the following information available from • Grand theft on Lawnview Cir. at Friday, Dec. 14 • The way you hold title to your property can SAVE or Cost you its incident summary report: 5:14 p.m. • Petty theft on Hartz Way at 1:01 and your loved ones Thousands of dollars. • Vehicle stop, arrest, on Sycamore p.m. Monday, Dec. 10 Valley Rd. W. at 11:12 p.m. • Most married couples hold title in joint tenancy or community • Identity theft on Meadow Blossom • Auto burglary on Cumberland Ct. at property...individuals almost always hold title in their own name. Ct. at 4:41 p.m., 5:26 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 12 3:04 p.m. All of these have serious disadvantages. 6:31 p.m. • Vehicle traffic stop, arrest, on • Accident, property damage, on • Petty theft on Crow Canyon Rd. at Danville Oak Pl. at 12:43 a.m. Fostoria Way at 4:28 p.m. Make an extraordinary gift to your loved ones 8:14 p.m. • Credit card fraud on Edinburgh Cir. • Residential burglary on Haven Hill by fi xing this NOW...We can help! • Residential burglary on Glen Rd. at at 9:38 a.m. Ct. at 4:57 p.m. 8:26 p.m. • Auto burglary on San Ramon Valley • Defrauding innkeeper on Rock Blvd. at 12:01 p.m. Island Cir. at 8:36 p.m. Contact our offi ce for a free brochure and complimentary consultation Tuesday, Dec. 11 about real estate titling alternatives and the compelling benefi ts of • Auto burglary on Camino Ramon Saturday, Dec. 15 • Accident, property damage, on and Sycamore Cir. at 4:30 p.m. titling your property in a living trust! Camino Tassajara and Shady • Drunk in public, arrest, on 300 block Creek Dr. at 7:47 a.m. • Residential burglary on Vista Del of Hartz Ave. at 1:18 a.m. Diablo at 5:34 p.m. and 6:20 • Auto burglary on Calistoga Ct. at p.m. • Welfare check, arrest, on San Robert J. Silverman 7:49 a.m. Ramon Valley Blvd. and • Vandalism on Mission Dr. at 6:50 Sycamore Valley Rd. at 11:52 Attorney At Law • Trespassing on Manchester St. at p.m. 9:09 a.m. a.m. • Vehicle traffic stop, arrest, on Podva • Accident, property damage, on • Drunk in public on Camino Ramon Rd. and San Ramon Valley Blvd. and Sycamore Cir. at 11:52 a.m. Diablo Rd. and W. El Pintado at 11:50 p.m. Rd. at 10:01 a.m. • Miscellaneous burglary on Rolling • Auto burglary on San Ramon Valley Thursday, Dec. 13 Hills Lane at 11:57 a.m. Serving the community with practical legal services. Blvd. at 10:44 a.m. • Suspicious subject stop, arrest, on • Drunk in public on Camino Ramon Living Trusts / Wills / Powers of Attorney / Healthcare Directives • Vandalism on Diablo Rd. at 11:30 3100 block of Stone Valley Rd. and Sycamore Valley Rd. at Estate Administration / Real Estate / Business a.m. at 12:11 p.m. 11:58 a.m. • Identity theft on St. George Rd. at • Terrorist threats on Via Cima Ct. at • Trespassing on Camino Ramon at Alamo 1:35 p.m. 1:58 p.m. 2:43 p.m. • Identity theft on Shadewell Dr. at • Grand theft on Edinburgh Cir. at • Drugs violation on Harlan Dr. at 6:15 (925) 838-2090 2:36 p.m. 2:43 p.m. p.m. [email protected] • Accident, major injuries, on Camino • Vehicle traffic stop, arrest, on • Juvenile disturbance, arrest, on 400 Tassajara and Crow Canyon Rd. Danville Blvd. and El Cerro Blvd. block of Hartz Ave. at 9:04 p.m.

OBITUARY Tired of Overcrowded Gyms? Love to host a party but hate the hassle? John Kraus We Offer an Exclusive One-on-One At Party Treasures no idea is too large; no detail is too small Services include Alamo resident John Kraus, a Personal Training Facility & event planning longtime businessman in Contra & party supply rental Costa County, passed away Nov. 27. • STRENGTH & POWER DEVELOPMENT & theme related decorative accents & personalized and embellished scrapbooks He owned Alamo Pools and • LIFESTYLE & WEIGHT MANAGEMENT & handcrafted cards Crystal Springs Pools in San Mateo. • BOXING FITNESS WORKOUTS & skillfully captured party photographs He was instrumental in designs and • CARDIOVASCULAR FITNESS construction on many buildings in the Midwest and has his name • SPORT-SPECIFIC TRAINING Children’s Theme Parties Special Celebrations on many plaques displaying his • PERSONAL DEFENSE TRAINING ★ ★ Princess Party Anniversary gunite and construction work. He ★ was a World War II veteran and ★ Pirate Party Baby Showers Barry E. Anderson, Fitness Director ★ ★ Birthdays was one of the Battling Bastards of Luau Party Bastogne, 101st Airborne Division, NSCA Certified Strength and ★ Sweet Sixteen ★ Medieval Party Screaming Eagles. He loved fish- Conditioning Specialist ★ Graduation B.A. Degree from Harvard University and many more! ing and boating on Lake Berryessa ★ ★ Retirement ACE Certified Personal Trainer Costumes with his family and friends. available for to name a few! He was the beloved father of the children Patricia Lynn, Cheryl Nelson, Colleen Thornhill, Bonnie Matthey, 925-867-3488 925-600-8444 and Dennis Kraus; and the cher- 3120-D Crow Canyon Road www.partytreasuresllc.com ished grandfather and great-grand- HealthandFitnessPlus.net father of 20 children. He was pre- Whether it’s a themed party for a child, or a momentous occasion for ceded in death by his brother Karl an adult, we can definitely make any celebration an event to treasure. Kraus Jr. FREE PARTY FAVORS! A memorial service was held Up to 25 Dec. 1 at Chapel of San Ramon Party must be booked by 01/15/08 Valley. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Hospice of East Bay. Page 22 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly Calendar WHAT’S HAPPENING IN OUR COMMUNITY • POST CALENDAR ITEMS AT WWW.DANVILLEWEEKLY.COM

WEEKEND PREVIEW group meets at 7 p.m., the second at the 2008 O’Neill International Shadelands Arts Center, 111 N. Wiget at 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 24, at the and fourth Tuesday of every month, Conference held from June 11-15, at Lane, Walnut Creek. Tickets are $40 Danville Library, Mt. Diablo Room, at the Danville Grange Hall, 743 the Tao House, Danville. Registration per person or $320 for a table of 400 Front St. Dr. Nathalie Bera-Miller Diablo Rd. Call 829-8505. is now open; contact Diane Schinnerer eight. Proceeds will benefit programs will discuss the key ingredients of Danville Rotary The Danville Rotary at 828-0659 or [email protected]. for Youth Homes Auxiliary. To pur- achieving and maintaining a healthy meets at noon every Monday at the Farmers Market The Danville chase tickets call 935-4531; to donate weight. Call 837-4889. Brass Door, 2154 San Ramon Valley Farmers Market is open from 9 silent auction items call 930-7803. African Drumming Circle Blvd., San Ramon. For information, a.m.-1 p.m., every Saturday, at the Drumming has been shown to visit www.danvillerotary.org. Railroad Avenue Municipal Parking boost immune system functions and Danville-Sycamore Valley Rotary The Lot, at the corner of Railroad and Health metabolism. Join Patricia Frame and Danville-Sycamore Valley Rotary Club Prospect avenues. Call 825-9090 or experience this fun way to get “good meets for breakfast at 7 a.m., every visit www.pcfma.com. Achieving Healthy Weight Loss vibrations” from 4:30-5:30 p.m., Tuesday at Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville Library will host a workshop Thursday, Jan. 17, at the Wellness 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Join on “Achieving Healthy Weight Loss” Community, 3276 McNutt Ave., them for great fellowship and make a difference in your community and the Exhibits world. Call Scott at 743-8449. Contemporary Warrior: Modern Kiwanis San Ramon Valley The Day Tomb Soliders Bedford Gallery San Ramon Valley Kiwanis meets will host “Contemporary Warrior: from noon-1:30 p.m., every Thursday, Modern Day Tomb Soldiers,” an at Round Hill Country Club, 3169 exhibit of ceramic figures by Chinese You Deserve Better. Roundhill Road, Alamo. Meetings artist, Wanxin Zhang, Jan. 13-March include networking, lunch and a 9, at the Bedford Gallery, 1601 Civic Tired of being overlooked and Santa Claus is guest speaker. For information, visit Dr., Walnut Creek. An opening recep- undervalued by your current ﬁnancial its Web site at www.kiwanis-srv.org tion is from 3-5 p.m., Sunday, Jan. coming to town or call 244-1227. 13, featuring Chinese musicians and advisor? We think you deserve better… dancing dragons. Admission is $3; San Ramon Valley Genealogical • Better service Santa Claus will be visiting Society The society meets at free for members. Call 295-1416 or with little children at different 10 a.m., every third Tuesday of visit www.bedfordgallery.org. • Better investment choices locations in the area including: the month, except August and European Train Exhibit Blackhawk • Better overall satisfaction December, at the LDS Church, 2449 Museum will host the layout of the Livery from 6-8 p.m., Friday, Stone Valley Road. Guest speaker at HO-scale European model trains, If you agree that it’s time for something Dec. 21 and from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., every meeting. All welcome. For infor- track layout and scenery from better, call today! Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 22-23, mation, call Ed at 299-0881. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., until Jan. 6, at Valley Stitchers Guild This club the Blackhawk Museum, 3700 located at Sycamore Valley will kick off the new year at 10 a.m., Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. Call Road West and San Ramon Monday, Jan. 7, at Faith Lutheran 736-2751 or visit www.blackhawk- Valley Boulevard, Danville; Church, 50 Woodsworth Lane, museum.org or www.theshopsat- Pleasant Hill. Guest speaker is Jan blackhawk.com. Blackhawk Plaza from noon-7 Lewis, quilter and owner of The p.m., Thursday-Monday, until Quilter’s Inn in Danville. Annual mem- Dec. 24; and at the Museum bership is $25. Call Marie at 947-5817. Fundraisers Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post of the San Ramon Valley, 205 75 The organization meets at 7:30 Book Sale Friends of the Danville Carey Consulting Wealth Management, Inc. Railroad Ave., Danville, from 10 p.m., every second Thursday of the Library will host a book sale from Jamie Carey, CFP, CPA, MBA a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 22. month (except December), at Danville 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday, Jan. 18, 10 President Veteran’s Hall, 400 Hartz Ave., a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 19 and Danville. For information, call Post noon-4 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 20, at 1350 Treat Blvd. #390 (Br 2) Jamie Carey, CFP, CPA, Walnut Creek, CA 94597 Commander Tony Carnemolla at 932- the Danville Library, 400 Front St. MBA is a registered 4042 or visit www.vfw.org. (925) 937-6385 Proceeds will benefit Friends of the representative with Danville Library. Memberships for the Fax: (925) 937-6377 Art and securities are Friends of the Danville Library will be [email protected] High School Artists and available at the door. Call 837-4889. offered through Musicians Pioneer Art Gallery pres- Events Linsco/Private ledger, www.careyconsulting Crab Feed and Silent Auction wealthmanagement.com ents an exhibit of students’ work from Youth Homes Auxiliary will host its (LPL) local high schools from Jan. 25-27, at 2008 O’Neill International Member NASD/SPIC Conference Scholars and devotees annual Crab Feed and Silent Auction CA Insurance Lic. #0B98802 the gallery, 524 Hartz Ave., Danville. at 6 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 12, at This is a unique opportunity for young of Eugene O’Neill will come together artists to display their work, win awards and gain recognition. supplements & herbs hormone testing

Civic natural body care products air & water puriﬁ Meetings Danville Parks and Leisure Services Commission The Commission meets regularly on the second Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front St. Danville Planning Commission The Commission meets regularly on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front St. Town Council Meeting The Danville Town Council normally meets on “Looking for the perfect gift?

the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Town Receive 20% off our

Meeting Hall, 201 Front St. seasonal gift items Clubs with this ad” Danville AM Toastmasters Club The club meets from 7-8:30 a.m., every Tuesday, at Father Nature’s, 178 E. Prospect Ave. Guests are welcome. For more information, contact Dave Miklasevich at 899-1543 or [email protected] or www.danvil- 294 A Railroad Ave. ers leamtoastmasters.org. Danville Job’s Daughters Job’s Danville, CA Daughters is an international organization for girls between the ages of foods & casein free gluten free classes & workshops 925.820.3131 10-20 with Masonic heritage who like to have fun and make friends. The natural baby care organic bedding Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 23 CALENDAR

Walnut Creek. This event is free. Call their families and friends. Call 933- 400 Front St. Discussion will include ‘Wigged Out!’ Hair on Stage 933-0107. 0107. Holiday current research, unique ways to deal (formerly Victoria’s Hair on Stage) Mindful Chi Kung Chi Kung is a Open Gym Town of Danville is offer- with stress and ideas for coping. Call presents “Wigged Out!” playing until moving meditation that integrates ing Adult Open Gym from 7:30-9:15 Santa at the Livery Santa Claus 837-4889. June 21, at Hair on Stage, 520 San mind, body and spirit to enhance a.m., Saturdays, and High School will be at the Livery visiting with Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. The health and strengthn the immune Open Gym, 6-8 p.m., Sundays, children from 6-8 p.m., Friday, Group This 16-week series is for box office is open from 11 a.m.-4 system. Learn about this system both at Los Cerros Middle School Dec. 21 and from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., women who have just been diag- p.m., Monday-Saturday. Call 855- from 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Jan. Community Gym, 968 Blemer Road, Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 22-23, at the nosed and are either in treatment or SHOW (855-7469) or visit www. 19, at the Wellness Community, Danville. Discounted pass cards are Livery, located at Sycamore Valley starting treatment from 10:30 a.m.- wiggedout.org. 3276 McNutt Ave., Walnut Creek. $4 for residents, $5 for non-residents. Road West and San Ramon Valley 12:30 p.m., Jan. 9-April 23, at the This event is free for cancer patients, Call 314-3386. Boulevard, Danville. Bring your own Wellness Community, 3276 McNutt camera. Call 838-7070. Ave., Walnut Creek. Guest medical Recreation Santa Claus at the Blackhawk experts will present information to Plaza Santa Claus will be at assist in understanding the disease. World Walk to Wellness 2008 BRINGING LEARNING TO LIFE Blackhawk Plaza every weekend Call 933-0107. Enjoy a self-guided walk around the throughout the season to pose for Understanding Clinical Trials Learn Pleasanton Sports and Community photos with children from noon-7 about clinical trials, what they entail Park from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday, p.m., Thursday-Monday, until Dec. 24, and how to find them for your type of Dec. 31, at the park, 5800 Parkside at Blackhawk Plaza. Call 736-2751 or cancer from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. Dr., Pleasanton. The walk is about visit www.theshopsatblackhawk.com. 15, at the Wellness Community, 3276 5,000 steps (2.15 miles) or a McNutt Ave., Walnut Creek. Local 20-minute, 2000-step walk led by Mr. clinical trials will be discussed. Call Pedometer at noon. Call 226-0888 or Kids and 933-0107. visit http://walking10000.org. Application Teens Miscellaneous Spiritual ‘Trains, Track and Trestle’ Blackhawk Museum will host “Trains, Blood Drive Hats Off America will Christmas Eve Services San Deadline Track and Trestle” which is run on host a Red Cross Blood Drive from Ramon Valley United Methodist the last day of the “All Aboard 2007! 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 13, at Church will host different Christmas January 31, 2008 European Train Enthusiasts” model the San Ramon Community Center, services on Monday, Dec. 24, at train exhibit. It is from 1-4 p.m., 12501 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. at the church, 902 Danville Blvd., Sunday, Jan. 6, at the Blackhawk Donor identification is required prior Alamo. Family services will be held Museum, 3700 Blackhawk Plaza to donating blood. For an appoint- at 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., includ- Circle, Danville. This event is a free ment, visit www.beadonor.com or ing a pick-up pageant for children, drop-in activity, with paid museum call 855-1950. children’s and youth choirs, carols admission. Call 736-2277. E-Waste Recycling Event Ring in and “O Holy Night” will be performed the new year and recycle that old, by Jenny West, soprano. Services When Mom or Dad Has Cancer at 8 p.m., 9:30 p.m. and 11 p.m., School-age children participate in fun, unwanted electronic equipment from noon-5 p.m., Friday, Jan. 4 and from will integrate Scripture readings with creative activities to help them express music by the Chancel Choir. Holy exploring & themselves while teens have a group 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 5-6, at Diablo Valley College, Communion celebrated at 11 p.m. where they can discuss concerns Call 837-5243. imagining from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. Overflow Parking Lot (across the 12, at the Wellness Community, 3276 street from the main campus) 321 Martin Luther King Convocation McNutt Ave., Walnut Creek. Parents Golf Club Rd., Pleasant Hill. This for World Peace An interfaith peace meet concurrently. Call 933-0107. event is free. Call (866) 335-3373 or service with speakers from Hindu, visit www.noewaste.com. Muslim, Jewish and Christian tradi- Recycle for Breast Cancer tions will meet at 7:30 p.m., Monday, The Seven Hills School Recycle for Breast Cancer is open Jan. 21, at the Wesley Center, San 975 North San Carlos Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94598 Lectures/ seven days a week accepting free Ramon Valley United Methodist tel 925.933.0666 dropoffs for computers, monitors, Church, 902 Danville Blvd., Alamo. cell phones, laptops, servers and The public is invited to pray together www.sevenhillsschool.org Workshops TVs, at 31 Beta Ct., Suite C, San and work for peace. Call 837-5243. Lebed Method: Focus on Healing Ramon. Call 735-7203 or visit www. New Year’s Retreat San Damiano This workshop is a six-week series recycleforbreastcancer.org. will host a retreat titled “Leaving of a total body exercise set to music the Old-Welcoming the New,” Dec. from 9:30-10:30 a.m., Jan. 17-Feb. 30-Jan. 1, at San Damiano Retreat, 21, at the Wellness Community, 3276 710 Highland Dr., Danville. Look McNutt Ave., Walnut Creek. It helps On Stage back to see where you’ve been and notice how far you’ve come. Cost is you regain and maintain range of ‘Bus Stop’ Role Players Ensemble motion, relieve pain, and reduce the $195 for private, $165 for shared. Theatre presents “Bus Stop” which Call 837-9141, ext. 315. risk of lymphedema from any kind of is “a true American classic sea- cancer. Call 933-0107. soned with a dash of bittersweet Managing Stress in Your Life experience” from Jan. 18-Feb. 9, at Danville Library will host a workshop the Village Theatre, 233 Front St., Support on “Managing Stress in Your Life” at Danville. For tickets, call 314-3400 7 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 16, at the or 314-3463, or visit www.ci.danville. Danville Library, Mt. Diablo Room, ca.us. Groups Celebrate Recovery Celebrate Recovery is a forward-looking and balanced Christ-centered recovery program for people with hurts, habits and hang-ups. The group meets at 6:30 p.m. for dinner and the program starts at 7 p.m., every Friday, at East Bay Fellowship, 2615 Camino Tassajara, Danville. Childcare available for ages 5-11. Call 736- 5100, e-mail celebraterecovery@ eastbayfellowship.org or visit www. eastbayfellowship.org. Danville TOPS The Danville chap- ter of Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets at 9 a.m., every Tuesday at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, 1550 Diablo Road. Call Bob Blendow at 935-9344 or Rosemarie at 838-7870. Find Help For Addiction Problems with drug or alcohol addiction in a loved one? Don’t know whom to turn to for help? Contact Drug Rehab Resource for a free confidential consultation to find the help you need. Call (866) 649-1594 or visit www.drugrehabresource.net. Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? There is a solution to weight and diet obsession. This effective 12-step program has proven results. There are no dues, fees or weigh-ins. This group meets from 7-8:30 p.m., every Wednesday, at Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. For a complete listing of East Bay meetings, call 838-1837 or visit www.foodaddicts.org.

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SunsetRanches.com (Cal-SCAN) Page 26 • December 21, 2007 • Danville Weekly Real Estate OPEN HOME GUIDE AND REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

SALES AT A GLANCE This week’s data represents homes sold during November 2007 Alamo Danville Diablo Walnut Creek Total sales reported: 4 Total sales reported: Total sales reported: 1 Total sales reported: Homes Today 28 22 Lowest sale reported: Lowest sale reported: BY JOE COMBS $375,000 Lowest sale reported: $1,850,000 Lowest sale reported: $465,500 $135,000 Highest sale reported: Highest sale reported: Highest sale reported: Highest sale reported: $850,000 $2,873,000 $1,850,000 $1,130,500 Alamo high end market Average sales report- Average sales report- Average sales report- Average sales reported: $622,500 ed: $1,017,196 ed: $1,850,000 ed: $627,273 on the rise

HOME SALES othing I see on the news about $2,328,235 and the highest reported number Source: California REsource the dire condition of the real estate just in for 2007 stands at $2,835,165 or about market astounds me any more, so I 21.7 percent more than in 2003. Median price This week’s data represents $955,500 1655 North California N ignore it for the most part and conduct my shows similar movement with a small nega- homes sold during November Boulevard #206 Trinity 2007 Avenue Limited to S. Holland own research. This month, I took a look at tive blip recorded in 2006. The median price 2419 Marsanne Street high end properties in Alamo, those proper- for Alamo high end homes currently stands Alamo Lennar Homes to B. & C. for $525,000 Mihelich for $1,200,000 1655 North California ties selling at or above the $2 million mark, at $2,737,500 compared to $2,225,000 in 172 Alamo Square Callagy to determine how badly they have been 2003 or a slightly greater change of 23 per- Trust to D. & V. Giri for 3167 Martingale Drive Boulevard #210 Trinity $515,000 Ponderosa Homes to J. Avenue Limited to E. impacted by the various and sundry crises cent. Although it follows a more choppy line, Sakaguchi for $1,236,000 1650 Cervato Circle R. Knowlden for $1,130,500 that apparently fog the lenses of every news- price paid per high end square foot has risen Stewart to J. Fergus for 100 Menton Court KB 1655 North California caster in America. If you make your real from $442 per square foot in 2003 to $552 in $750,000 Homes to J. Moskow for estate investments based upon the network 2007 for an incredible 24.9 percent rise. $823,500 Boulevard #301 Trinity 1470 Danville Boulevard Avenue Limited to J. Resch news, you may find these results hard to No one can predict the future, but the past 2518 Montreux Street #10 J. Walker to K. McIlvaine for $997,000 believe. can certainly be useful in thinking about it. for $375,000 Lennar Homes to A. & T. Franks for $1,135,500 1655 North California There are currently 26 high end prop- So let’s think for a moment about what that 228 Stone Valley Way L. Boulevard #302 Trinity Spady to R. Amatrone for 284 Pembrook Street erties listed as active in Alamo. One is means to Alamo’s high end market. If the $850,000 Shapell Industries to A. Ly for Avenue Limited to Saucy Trust marked pending and a total of 36 high end current five-year growth rate slips to only $465,500 for $799,000 Danville properties are listed as sold as of Nov. 30, 20 percent over the next five years, it means 285 Pembrook Street 1655 North California 2007. Average selling price is $2,835,165 that the average Alamo high end home now Shapell Industries to J. & S. 1143 Blue Spur Circle Boulevard #312 Trinity compared to an average selling price of selling for a bargain price of $2,835,165 will Shapell Industries to Khaleel Campbell for $502,000 Avenue Limited to D. Diaz for $2,627,764 for the same time period in ‘06 be selling at a price of $3,402,198. Can you Trust for $1,087,000 208 Pinewood Court C. & G. $645,000 341 Bolero Drive Martin Martinez to A. & E. Hunter for when only 34 properties sold in the same imagine what this number might be if the $1,175,000 1655 North California time period. If I am not mistaken, that is a 7.8 newscasters decide that the real estate disas- Trust to G. & N. Long for Boulevard #321 Trinity $1,030,000 336 Red Maple Drive L. Avenue Limited to L. Hinman percent increase in average selling price and ter is over and begin reporting that the market 1530 Colchester Street Eldridge to J. Petersen for a 5.8 percent increase in unit sales for prop- has recovered? $1,200,000 for $549,500 Lennar Homes to H. & B. erties valued at $2 million and up. If those If you would like to receive a copy of our 1175 River Rock Lane P. & 1655 North California Anderson for $1,155,500 facts leave you wondering about whether Alamo High End Market Review including 2001 Colmar Street KB J. Forrest to Weber Trust for Boulevard #420 Trinity Homes to M. Mok for $670,000 Avenue Limited to R. & K. you missed the bottom of the market and a the complete details, please send an e-mail $1,088,000 628 St. George Road D. & Ross for $635,000 buying opportunity, the data presented on the to [email protected] and place 2012 Colmar Street KB M. Alfaro to T. & B. Reynolds 1655 North California chart below may absolutely unnerve you. Alamo High End Market Review in the Homes to N. & W. Damian for for $750,000 Boulevard #422 Trinity The number of properties sold above $2 subject line. You will receive a copy via pdf $1,151,000 4033 Sugar Maple Drive Avenue Limited to B. million in Alamo has been steadily increas- file. You will not be spammed. No e-mail, 2018 Colmar Street Neill Trust to M. Sabah for Critchlow for $774,000 $1,325,000 ing since in 2003, with the exception of 2005 no worries; call me at 989-6086 to arrange KB Homes to H. Suh for Moulton $986,000 134 Sunhaven Road 1995 Pomar Way when the number rocketed up to 44 before delivery. Stromstad Trust to J. & B. Trust to B. Betov for dropping back to a more normal 34 in 2006. 2025 Colmar Street KB $385,000 Homes to C. & J. Chin for Nearon for $1,470,000 If 2007 can be viewed as an indicator, it Data presented in this column $928,500 539 Zenith Ridge Drive M. & 2013 Skycrest Drive #1 looks like the upward march continues. is based in whole or in part on data sup- 2041 Colmar Street KB B. Lohf to M. & C. Scanlan for Welch Trust to J. Fiss for Surprisingly, the average sales price of plied by the Contra Costa and Alameda Homes to J. Yang for $835,000 $290,000 high end hmes sold during this five-year time Multiple Listing Service and other quoted $910,000 Diablo 1509 Skycrest Drive #6 D. period has increased steadily in each of the sources. Joe and Nancy Combs, Remax T. 204 Garden Creek Place 1811 Clubhouse Road R. & Wolf to B. Norris for $238,000 years reported - not a single backward step. and the MLS Service do not guarantee the & G. Dolan to K. Grizard for B. Johnson to Miller Trust for 3655 Springer Court C. & D. $533,000 The low was in 2003 with an average price of accuracy of this information. $1,850,000 Wong to F. Dill for $746,000 307 Karelian Street Shapell Industries to C. & S. Walnut Creek 896 Terra California Drive #2 L. Porter to Brunk Trust for Francioch for $466,000 1602 Encanto Place K. & Alamo High-End Market Jan. 1-Nov. 30 366 Karelian Street Shapell J. Niemeyer to J. Mandel for $574,000 Industries to P. & S. Sullivan $605,000 4348 Terra Granada Drive Houses Days on Average Median $ per for $465,500 2162 La Salle Drive Madsen #2A Mckillip Trust to J. & B. sold market price price sq.ft. 750 Kirkcrest Road Ageno Trust to M. Dibenedetto for Case for $610,000 Trust to Morris Trust for $740,000 1860 Tice Creek Drive 2003 17 48 $2,328,235 $2,225,000 $442 $2,873,000 1245 Lindell Drive Guillory #1242 M. Moore to K. Nouri 2004 29 39 $2,425,773 $2,350,000 $443 220 Live Oak Drive M. Trust to C. Ecklund for for $135,000 Sabah to V. Burgos for $675,000 1840 Tice Creek Drive 2005 44 21 $2,455,113 $2,387,500 $497 $1,012,000 230 Marshall Drive K. Nichandros Trust to H. 1943 Mantova Street KB Trevethan to C. Switzer for #2132 2006 34 30 $2,627,764 $2,330,000 $549 Homes to P. & M. Kiteley for $882,000 Nichandros for $315,000 $1,053,000 2832 Mi Elana Circle 2452 Warren Lane T. & G. 2007 36 39 $2,835,165 $2,737,500 $552 1952 Mantova Street KB Putnam Trust to R. & R. Angelo to M. & D. Nieto for Homes to C. Hogan for Savidge for $765,000 $785,000 Data includes Alamo properties sold for $2 million and up

OPEN HOMES THIS WEEKEND

DANVILLE PLEASANTON 4 Bedrooms LIVERMORE 307 Brianne Ct. $1,249,000 4 Bedrooms 1 Bedrooms Sun 1-4 J. Rockcliff Realtors 998-3078 4 Bedrooms 842 Matadera Cir. $1,282,888 68 Peters Ave. $319,000 4677 Helpert Ct. $729,000 1579 FrankFurt Wy. $769,000 Sat/Sun 1-4 Keller Williams 260-2508 Sat 11-2 Keller Williams 398-0234 Sun 1-4 Keller Williams 463-0436 Sun 12:30-3:30 J. Rockcliff Realtors 785-4546

Danville Weekly • December 21, 2007 • Page 27 Help Bring Joy to Families in need and Feed

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We are happy to promote and support the spirit of giving gifts with… The missionAn exceptionalof the U.S. Marine Corps neighborhood Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys asdeserves Christmas gifts to needy exceptional children in the community service. in which the campaign is conducted. The mission of the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano is to alleviate hunger As seasoned home loan consultants, we are proud of our professional association Convenient and and provide an efficient, coordinated system for collecting and distributing food that reduces with Country w i d e®. To g e t h e r, we strive to offer the highest level of customer food waste and increases public awareness regarding hunger and food security issues in personalized home s e rvice in the industry. Contra Costa and Solano counties. loan process Stop by AsCountrywide part of the Home Countrywide Loans at Danville family, to pickwe willup an work official closely Food Bankwith Brownyou and bag make and go sure shopping and go back to Countrywideyour customer Center service at Danville. experience YOU will is onehelp that children, you’ll Senior tell yourcitizens, friends working and poor, Homeless families, associates about! single parents, Chronically Ill. Local decision- Drop off your donations at your LOCAL OFFICE: making process Please feel free to call us directly so we can tell you more about the many ways enabling timely and we can make you feel at home. reliable answers to your home financing First and Last Name Ti t l e Donations accepted through Saturday Dec 15 q u e s t i o n s

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