City buckles down on water consumption Page 5
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5 NEWS School board OKs local accountability plan 8 NEWS Another successful Ladies Day at the Races 32 REAL ESTATE U.S. home builder confidence rises June 18 - July 6 Taste the Open Tuesday - Sunday REd HWhite & Blue
Safeway Concert series AMPHITHEATER Free Show Nightly At 8 PM Ashanti july 2
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Military appreciation days $2 tuesdays senior free thursdays kids free fridays Discounts *Kids 12 and under FREE Admission FREE admission with military ID *$2 Admission *62 + FREE Admission Every day all day July 1 *end at 5pm July 3 june 27 & July 4 Sponsored by:
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Page 2ÊUÊJune 27, 2014 UÊPleasanton Weekly AROUND PLEASANTON BY JEB BING At last, we’re getting a second dog park here are 26,800 dogs in park clause would mean going Pleasanton and if they back to voters, which no one FREE Tcould vote, they would wants to do. have had the city’s second dog So fast-forward to last Feb- park in town long ago — and ruary after another eight years LUNCH probably quite a few more. As of petitions and emails to city it is, they and their owners leaders. The current council, will have to be content with a no doubt exasperated with all BUY 1 decision by the City Council the dog talk, and with several last week to spend $300,000 on the council who own dogs, GET 1 to build an off-leash dog park gave the green light to the on a two-acre site at the La- Parks and Recreation Commis- with beverage purchase goon Road/Bernal Avenue stag- sion and Community Services (not good with other offers/discounts) ing area of the Marilyn Murphy Director Susan Andrade-Wax Kane Trail. VALID TUES-SUN to find other dog park sites as DOWNTOWN It’s flatland sandwiched be- part of the commission’s new TILL 3PM ASSOCIATION tween the Arroyo de la Laguna Master Plan. In their research, Offer valid with coupon just south of the Bernal Av- they determined that at least thru July 27, 2014 enue bridge and the on-ramp two acres are needed to meet to southbound I-680. Heavy existing demand. Besides the brush along the arroyo and immediate need for a second the Pleasanton Ridge to the off-leash park, a third is also west make the area a bit more needed, and maybe more. attractive than it sounds, but To be fair, dogs parks then dogs just want a place to should be scattered in differ- run unfettered, not a scenic ent parts of Pleasanton, in- park. cluding Staples Ranch to the (925) 462-8218 Pet owner pleas for more northeast, Vineyard Avenue 828 MAIN STREET dog parks in Pleasanton, or at or around Callippe Preserve PLEASANTON least one more, go back well to the southeast, and in the past the time I started writing vicinity of the new Safeway this column more than 14 years Gateway Center at Bernal and ago. When Pleasanton was half Valley Avenue. the size, city leaders fenced The Marilyn Murphy Kane off a strip of Muirwood Park Trail site won out at the start. next to the freeway for a dog The primary uses for this 13- run, adding a few benches and acre area where the trail be- tables to please their owners. gins are already earmarked It’s done its job and pet (dog) for open space, park and rec- aficionados long ago asked city reation, possibly an environ- 2013 leaders to do more. mental education center, and In 2000, when Pleasanton Native American history reflec- acquired free-of-charge 138 tive area and other public and acres of the 515-acre Bernal quasi-public uses compatible site that developers bought, with the Kane trail. The stag- pet lovers were ecstatic. This ing area already includes 12 We Now land, now called Bernal Com- parking stalls, though more SUMMER munity Park, had all the room will have to be added, a paved Sell Dog needed for the many sports entrance area, covered benches and 4-H demonstration fields and a water line. Food planned there along with a The distance from homes far- youth center, cultural arts cen- ther south on Lagoon is enough ter, wooded trails and even a to assure little noise or incon- meandering creek with surely venience from a dog park that’s several acres left over for a dog likely to become quite popular Chip Car Key park. to pet owners. Even though it’s But then the City Council, in not on the city’s east or south $ 99 its wisdom or lack of it, specifi- sides, it’s easy to reach and 69 cally ruled out using any part (Some Restrictions will be especially convenient to Apply) of Bernal for a dog park when Foothill Road neighborhoods. it won approval from voters in The Tankana Design Group, November 2006 of the Bernal a San Francisco-based land- Ask Us About: Property Phase II Specific Plan scape architecture and urban Rescreening Or New Window (Measure P). Lighted baseball design firm, has been awarded Screens, Sharpening Knives, fields, several of which have the design work, which, with Scissors, Chainsaws, Mower since been built, and many construction, is expected to Blades and Many other amenities, which have cost in the range of $300,000. Garden Tools. not, were OK, but no dogs al- The dog park could be open lowed. To change the no-dog later this year. N
About the Cover Two Locations to serve you: 1807 Santa Rita Rd, Pleasanton Pleasanton Weekly readers selected the Pleasanton Ridge as 2014’s Best Phone (925) 846-0660 Now Kept Secret Treasure of Pleasanton and the Best Place to Walk, Jog or Bike. 652 Main Street, Pleasanton Open Photo by Amanda Aguilar. Cover design by Shannon Corey. Phone (925) 846-9727 DOWNTOWN Vol. XV, Number 22 www.truevalue.com/pleasanton ASSOCIATION
Pleasanton WeeklyÊUÊJune 27, 2014 U Page 3 DINING GRAND OPENING SPECIALS ON THE TOWN Streetwise Eddie Papa’s ASKED AROUND TOWN 20% OFF 50% OFF American Hangout the purchase of $10 or more with coupon. 4889 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, HOUSE SPECIAL ROLLS 469-6266. Winner of The Drinks excluded. Mon – Fri only. Buy 1, get the 2nd half off. Pleasanton Weekly’s Reader What is the most unusual gag gift May not be combined with any other offer. Drinks excluded. Mon– Fri only. Choice Awards for “Best American Expires 7/20/14 Food,” “Best Meal under $20” you have ever given or received? May not be combined with any other offer. and “Best Kid Friendly Restaurant,” t4FSWJOH#FFS8JOF t(SPVQ1BSUJFT Eddie Papa’s American Hangout t%JOFJO 5BLFPVU t(JGU$BSET"WBJMBCMF Expires 7/20/14 celebrates the regional food and Ethan Ringel t$BMMBIFBEPSQMBDFZPVSPSEFSPOMJOF beverage cultures of America. Retired 4515 Rosewood Dr., #700 Bring the whole family to enjoy (in the Walmart & Kohl’s Shopping iconic dishes from across the United When we were kids, my cousin and Center - next to Payless Shoes) States, Old World Hospitality, and I bought little explosives to put in his 925.225.9988 hand crafted artisan cocktails. mother’s cigarettes, but while we were www.zumisushipleasanton.com www.eddiepapas.com. testing them beforehand, they explod- ed in our faces. So I guess the joke was on us.
Kari Solofnenko High school student I was once given a soap dispenser that was shaped like a nose and it squirted out green soap.
Guillermo Solis College student I bought one of my fraternity brothers a pair of “Truck Nutz.” They were like $30 plus international shipping, but Sunday, July 13, 2014 the look on his face when he opened the package was totally priceless. He is still driving around with them hanging 5k /10k 8:00 a.m. from the back of his car. from Eden Medical Center to Lake Chabot Regional Park in Castro Valley Michele Cammaroni Kids Dash 9:30 a.m. Just for kids age 3-8! Billing clerk Free Health Expo 7:30–10:30 a.m. Someone once gave me a package of a variety of different kinds of dried fish aH[SLUHGPHGLFDWLRQGURSRII that they brought home from a trip to aKHDOWKVFUHHQLQJVLQIR China. It has become something of a aPXVLFJRRGLHVUHIUHVKPHQWV legend, because I re-gifted it as a gag gift for someone else, and then she Registration Fees: 5k/10k: $30/$35 race day re-gifted it, and so on and so on. Kids Dash: $11/$15 race day
Online registration closes at 11 p.m. on 7/10. Mailed reg- Steve Fogel istrations must be postmarked by 7/3. All race participants Engineer receive a commemorative t-shirt and goodie bag. While on a family trip once, I bought my mom an envelope that said “rattle- snake eggs” on it. When she opened Register & More Info: the envelope to remove the card, the card made a rattling sound. She’s never been quite the same since. edenmedcenter.org 20103 Lake Chabot Road Volunteers Needed! 510-727-2744 Castro Valley, CA 94546
—Compiled by Nancy, Jenny and Katie Lyness Support Pleasanton Have a Streetwise question? Email [email protected] The Pleasanton Weekly is published every Friday by Embarcadero Media, 5506 Sunol Weekly’s coverage Blvd., Suite 100, Pleasanton, CA 94566; (925) 600-0840. Mailed at Periodicals Post- age Rate, USPS 020407. The Weekly is mailed upon request to homes and apartments in Pleasanton. Print subscriptions for businesses or residents of other communities are of our community. $60 per year or $100 for two years. Go toPleasantonWeekly.com to sign up and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Pleasanton Weekly, 5506 Sunol Blvd., Suite 100, Pleasanton, CA 94566. ©2014 by Embarcadero Media. Join today: SupportLocalJournalism.org/Pleasanton All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.
Page 4ÊUÊJune 27, 2014 UÊPleasanton Weekly Newsfront DIGEST Pleasanton buckles down 1st Wednesday time The 1st Wednesday Street Party to reach 25% cut in water use gets underway at 6 p.m. July 2 for three hours of shopping, City hires marketing firm, starts monitoring customers who fail to comply dining and strolling through downtown’s unique shops, res- BY JEB BING $200,000 this year and next on allocation, but will need the money to end the crisis is glum. The state taurants and middle-of-Main acing its most severe drought advertising and promotions to per- if the drought extends into 2015. Department of Water Resources, Street booths set up to market ever and a water shortage suade those who live and work in Councilwoman Karla Brown which said last month that Pleas- their products and services. Fthat could see taps turned off Pleasanton to cut back their water questioned why Smith had to seek anton and the Tri-Valley cities also The folks at the Pleasanton without cutbacks by residents and consumption. A total of $75,000 outside services when the city al- served by the Zone 7 Water Agency Downtown Association, which businesses, Pleasanton will start the of that already has been spent from ready employs a public relations would receive no more water this sponsors the 1st Wednesday summer months of July and August the city’s water operations fund for officer to do the work. year, now says it will deliver 5% of events, urge everyone to dress with dwindling water supplies. the customary allocations, but not in their best 1980s gear and Daniel Smith, director of the Op- before Sept. 1. neon colors in keeping with the erations Services Department and ‘We’re getting there, but we still see people irrigating “So we have a lot of hot summer “Neon Summer Nights” theme in effect the city’s water czar, said their lawns during the day, washing down their days to go through before then and for this month’s party. the city has seen a 20% reduction in there’s always a chance that allocation Tease your hair, put on your water use so far this year, but more driveways and washing their cars.Unfortunately, there will not be here then,” Smith said. slap bracelets and dress in your cuts will be needed to meet the are still a number of people who just don’t get it.’ “No new sources of water have best 80s flair and then stop by 25% reduction goal by year’s end. become available or are likely to this the Entertainment Garden to “We’re getting there, but we still —Daniel Smith, director of the Operations Services Department year,” he added. “Even several water enter to win a free raffle prize see people irrigating their lawns operators elsewhere in California for dressing up. July’s featured during the day, washing down their that have some excess water are band is Fast Times. driveways and washing their cars,” drought education, advertising and Smith and City Manager Nelson holding off for higher prices, which Main Street will be closed Smith told the City Council last marketing services in a contract Fialho said public information pro- were already extremely high.” from Del Valle Parkway to Ber- week. “Unfortunately, there are still Smith’s department signed with grams of the type needed to address But Smith said most residents nal Avenue from 4:30-10 p.m. a number of people who just don’t Carol H. Williams Advertising. the crisis situation Pleasanton faces and businesses here have cut back for the event. get it.” Smith said with the ads and needs the expertise of specialists at least the 25% asked when the To beef up public information and promotions created by the agency skilled in creating and marketing city declared a Stage 3 water short- SWing for a cause survey programs, Smith received the but yet to run, he expects to tap those campaigns. council’s approval to spend up to very little more into the $200,000 Smith said the forecast for rain See WATER on Page 8 The Sandra J. Wing Founda- tion is holding its second an- nual SWing for Cancer Thera- PUSD approves pies golf tournament Sept. 15 at Castlewood Country Club in accountability Pleasanton. Participation in the event, plan which costs $200 per player or $700 for a foursome, will help LCAP includes goals, benefit the lives of cancer patients in the Tri-Valley. Registration in- actions to address cludes 18 holes, a box lunch, state priorities awards, cocktails and appetizers. Golfers will tee off at 10:30 BY AMANDA AGUILAR a.m. and play the Hill Course he Pleasanton school board at Castlewood, located at 707 unanimously approved the Country Club Circle. Tdistrict’s Local Control and For more information regis- Accountability Plan (LCAP) at its tration or sponsorship opportu- meeting last week. nities, visit www.healingthera- The LCAP is a required docu- piesfoundation.org ment under the state’s Local Con- trol Funding Formula model that Naming post office describes how the district plans to meet the annual goals for the A bill to name the U.S. Post School spirit at Harvest Park students, including actions and ser- Office in Dublin as the “James What do geometry, leadership and passionate school spirit all have in common? According to Ken vices that address state and local ‘Jim’ Kohnen Post Office” has Rocha, principal at Harvest Park Middle in Pleasanton, it includes over 1,230 students united to sup- priorities, according to the Califor- passed the House of Representa- port breast cancer awareness in October 2013 and this school spirit gathering (shown above) just nia Department of Education. tives by a vote of 398-0. before classes ended for the summer earlier this month, under the guidance of leadership teacher Greg The eight priorities include stu- The measure was introduced Dankwardt. dent achievement, student engage- by Congressman Eric Swalwell ment, other student outcomes, (D-Dublin) to honor the life of school climate, parental involve- Tri-Valley public servant and 30- ment, implementation of Common year Army veteran Dr. Jim Koh- Core State Standards, course access nen, who died May 29, 2012. Library to sponsor kids’ and basic services. “Naming the post office in In one of its proposed action Dublin after Dr. Jim Kohnen is steps, the Pleasanton Unified a fitting tribute to a man who programs this weekend School District (PUSD) states that dedicated his life to the Tri-Val- Free events taking place at library, Amador Theater students will have the opportunity ley community,” Swalwell said. to explore greater opportunities for The post office facility, which he Pleasanton Public Library pants will learn about reducing, to the show. Doors will close once their future through technology is under the jurisdiction of the will host two special chil- reusing, recycling, water conser- the program begins. and access to library resources. Pleasanton post office, is located Tdren’s programs this week- vation and pollution prevention. Then on Sunday, the award- In addition, the LCAP aims to at 6937 Village Pkwy. in Dublin. end, one at the library and another No registration is required for winning children’s music group ensure that the district budget is at Amador Theater. this 45-minute program, which Banana Slug String Band brings aligned with the eight priorities for Corrections On Saturday, Doug Nolan of is best suited for children 5 and its rollicking, ecology-minded supplemental grants in order to sup- Rock Steady Juggling brings a older and takes place in the li- music to the Amador Theater. port targeted student groups, which The Weekly desires to correct lively mix of environmental ed- brary’s large meeting room. The Slug songs range from rockin’ include English learners, reclassified all significant errors. To request ucation, juggling, comedy and performance begins at 2 p.m., boogies to gentle ballads, folk fluent English proficient students, a correction, call the editor audience participation with his with free tickets distributed at the at (925) 600-0840 or email: “Eco-Tainment” show. Partici- Children’s Desk 30 minutes prior See LIBRARY on Page 6 See PUSD on Page 7 [email protected] Pleasanton WeeklyÊUÊJune 27, 2014 U Page 5 NEWSFRONT
Free ‘stuff’ offered Fireworks go on sale in Dublin Use regulations in effect; banned at all times in Pleasanton
to TV30 lucky fans BY JEB BING ing “Safe and Sane”) are permitted be ready nearby and a pail of water “Safe and Sane” fireworks will go at Dublin multi-housing units or kept handy for disposal of spent July prizes range from concert tickets to gift cards on sale in Dublin starting at noon at any undesignated Dublin park, fireworks and “duds.” this Saturday (June 28). other city facilities or at public UÊ *iÌÊ ÜiÀÃÊ Ã Õ`Ê ii«Ê «iÌÃÊ Tri-Valley Community Televi- LaPorte on July 19 and “Sing a “Safe and Sane” fireworks require schools. indoors on July 4, as many animals sion is offering viewers an op- Song of Sondheim” on July 27. the use of several safety precau- Officials said people who pur- become extremely agitated by the portunity to win free stuff by Here’s how it works. TV30 tions, and their use in certain city chase fireworks should keep the sights and sounds of fireworks. signing up to be a TV30 “Lucky viewers go to the Tri-Valley TV parks is limited to the hours of 10 following precautions in mind: Some of these pets will even run Fan.” website at www.tv30.org to reg- a.m. to 10 p.m. on July 4 only. UÊÜ>ÞÃÊÀi>`Ê>`ÊvÜÊÌ iÊÃ>viÌÞÊ into the streets and away from It’s easy to do and it’s free ister to be a “Lucky Fan.” There No fireworks of any kind are al- directions. home in an attempt to flee fire- too. During July, TV30 Lucky is no charge and the informa- lowed in Pleasanton. UÊ iÛiÀÊ Ì>iÊ vÀiÜÀÃÊ >«>ÀÌÊ ÌÊ works activity that is distressing Fans will have a chance to win tion will not be shared. TV30 Fireworks can legally be used build your own fireworks. to them. a $50 gift card to Zephyr Grill randomly selects a winner at only in the following Dublin parks UÊ iÛiÀÊ>ÜÊV `ÀiÊÌÊÕÃiÊvÀi Illegal fireworks, which explode & Bar in Livermore, tickets to various times from the “Lucky on July 4: works without adult supervision. in the air or move along the ground, concerts at Wente Vineyards Fan” registrations. The winner 1. Alamo Creek Park (Dougherty UÊ"ÞÊ} ÌÊiÊ`iÛViÊ>ÌÊ>ÊÌi]Ê pose an even higher threat this year and the Firehouse Theater in will be announced on the Tri- Road and Willow Creek Drive) and remain a safe distance away due to the extremely dry conditions Pleasanton. Valley TV Facebook page and 2. Dublin Sports Grounds (Dublin after lighting the device. of the Dublin hillsides, where there The station is currently giv- on TV30. A person can enter as Boulevard and Civic Plaza) UÊ iÛiÀÊ ÌÀÞÊ ÌÊ Ài} ÌÊ ÀÊ >`iÊ is great potential for wildfires. Law ing away tickets to two upcom- many times as they want until 3. Emerald Glen Park (Tassajara “dud” fireworks (faulty and unex- enforcement and fire officials plan ing concerts at Wente Vineyards they win. Road and Gleason Drive) ploded fireworks). to be extra vigilant due to the dry this month: Chris Isaak per- For complete rules or to reg- 4. Shannon Park (Shannon Avenue UÊÀiÜÀÃÊÃ Õ`Ê>Ü>ÞÃÊLiÊÕÃi`Ê winter and the drought conditions. forming on July 9 and Wynonna ister, visit www.tv30.org and and San Ramon Valley Road) in safe, open areas and away from Penalties for those caught selling & The Big Noise on July 16. click on the “Lucky Fan” icon Dublin property owners may use buildings, combustibles, dry veg- or using these types of fireworks At the Firehouse Theater, on the homepage. N their “Safe and Sane” fireworks at etation and especially people and can include fines and jail time. shows include comedian Rocky — Jeb Bing any time during the sales period. animals. To learn more, visit www.dublin. No fireworks of any type (includ- UÊÊViVÌi`Ê}>À`iÊ ÃiÊÃ Õ`Ê ca.gov/fireworks. N LIBRARY Continued from Page 5
songs to reggae and rap. Music, theater, puppetry and audience participation make this free con- cert a perfect fit for all ages. The one-hour concert begins at 1 p.m. at the theater, located at 1155 Santa Rita Rd. on the grounds of Amador Valley High School. Free parking is avail- able. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Also, this summer’s reading game, Banana Slug String Band performs Sunday at Amador Theater. “Sherlock Bones and the Case of the Mysterious Library,” is under- way at the Pleasanton library. It’s events, crafts and movies. vices, or call the Children’s Desk free and happening now through For more information visit at 931-3400, ext. 3. N Aug. 3, and includes prizes, special www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/ser- — Jeb Bing
Services held for Kaitlyn Mary Oefelein, 20 Graduated from Amador Valley High School in 2012 Services were held yesterday lege, Penn., on June 2, 1994. She at Saint Elizabeth Seton Catholic was most recently a student at Church in Pleasanton for Kaitlyn Las Positas College and also was Mary Oefelein, daughter of Lisa an employee of Safeway at the and Joseph Oefelein and a 2012 Santa Rita Road supermarket in graduate of Amador Valley High Pleasanton. extended family of friends and School, who died June 17 at her Those who knew her always relatives with whom she was home in Pleasanton. She was 20 commented on her sparkling very close and loved very much. years old. personality. She touched the Memorial donations may be Her mother, Lisa Oefelein, is lives of many people with gen- made to Valley Humane Soci- a longtime staff member of the tle kindness, compassion and a ety, 3670 Nevada St, Pleasanton, Pleasanton Weekly, where she is beautiful smile. CA 94566, where Kaitlyn spent in charge of accounts, billing and Besides her parents, she is many hours as a volunteer loving finances. survived by her brother, Andrew and caring for the animals. N Kaitlyn was born in State Col- Oefelein of Pleasanton, and an — Jeb Bing
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Page 6ÊUÊJune 27, 2014 UÊPleasanton Weekly NEWSFRONT Paid for by Robert Byrd PUSD Continued from Page 5 Downtown socio-economically disadvantaged students and foster youth. and the Pastime The budget for supplemental funding to support the targeted groups is $570,000, according to Pool Hall staff. In another example, the LCAP In a recent Pleasanton Weekly edi- states the “increased outreach to torial about the coming demolition of foster youth will allow students the old pool hall on Main Street (Enjoy to be better supported within our Pastime Pool while you can, May 30) District and allow these students to be better prepared for college and The editor writes, “The old bulding career.” became the pool hall at a time in Pleas- According to the LCAP, some anton’s history when more than a dozen Main Street, Pleasanton in 1895. of the services that are set to be bars lined Main Street. Fisticuffs among offered to foster youth include ad- the inebriated on Friday and Saturday ditional child welfare and atten- dinner, cleanup and then go home. So all this tells me that unless we can dance specialists, a college boot nights often provided better entertain- ment for the public than shows at the Some say “Sorry, but that’s revitaliza- come up with a way to increase down- camp academy, and before and tion.” Others say, “It’s the end of an town’s public parking supply then when after school and evening tutoring. move houses.” PUSD’s other LCAP major goals Yeah, I know, I was there. I’ve lived era.” Me, I say its probably both, but parking does reach saturation, property include: in old town Pleasanton since the early it’s still sad. I’ll miss the social diversity. owners will start hoarding their own UÊ Ê ÃÌÕ`iÌÃ]Ê Ài}>À`iÃÃ]Ê vÊ À>Vi]Ê And if you’re a commercial prop- private parking lots and downtown’s ethnicity, socio-economic status, 50’s, and I’d like to have a dollar for every hour I spent in this old pool hall erty owner downtown, or own a busi- drive-in customers will start driving to or gender will be proficient/ad- ness, or if you’re a drive-in customer, other retail centers, or downtown’s like vanced and college/career ready shooting pool, drinking beer and play- upon graduation. ing poker with my buddies when I was or even if you just live nearby, then the Livermore where there’s more density UÊ "«Ìâ}Ê ÃÌÕ`iÌÊ i>À}Ê LÞÊ young, naïve and ever lasting. But I grew consequences of a new much larger and diversity and the parking is more ÕÌâ}ÊÛ>ÌÛiÊÌiV }ið building on this corner comes at you in convenient. UÊ ÛiÀÞÊ ÃÌÕ`iÌÊ ÜÊ viiÊ Ã>vi]Ê Ài- up and so did Pleasanton. I grew up designing and building homes, many the form of another 29 cars out in the It tells me that since the majority spected and enjoy positive con- street, circling the block, looking for a arrive downtown by automobile, any nections. in Pleasanton, some in old town. I’ve UÊÊÌi>V iÀÃÊ>`ÊV>ÃÃvi`ÊÃÌÀÕV- built new commercial buildings (two on public parking space. new projects that do not provide their tional staff will have opportunities Main Street) and restored old ones. And Let me explain. We know that in fair share of parking will simply decrease, to receive training and support in an automobile depended environment or dilute the available parking supply order to deliver high-quality in- I’ve owned and managed Main Street property since 1987. I guess one might like this valley is today, where the vast for everyone else. For all the locally struction and progress toward full majority of customers of any retail cen- owned businesses in all the old down- implementation of Common Core. say that instead of running around town UÊ*>ÀiÌÃÉ}Õ>À`>ÃÊÜÊLiÊ>LiÊÌÊ telling others what to do and how to do ter, or downtown arrive by automobile, town buildings. The very ones who give support the learning of their chil- it, I was out there doing it. that to be sucessful the center, or the downtown the character, the appeal, “the dren in the new standards and the downtown must balance drive-in park- draw”, that allows out of town owners 21st century classroom. And what’s been most rewarding for me is the new life that I and the locally ing needs with available parking. Either like this one the opportunity to locate The LCAP preparation was a by the number of spaces provided or by downtown and prosper in the first place. seven-month process that included owned businesses have breathed into a consultations with school officials, couple of old neglected and under uti- different business types, with different It tells me that parking is the life employees and parents, reviews lized downtown buildings that were alive parking needs, using the parking that blood of downtown businesses and by the Parent Advisory Board and is provided, at different time frames, or that without new parking to balance input from the public. with pedestrian vitality and community spirit when I was a teenager. The 1937 better still, both. those who cover their property, indoors According to the district, the We know that density is the path and outdoors, with an income produc- LCAP is a living document and Roxy Theater and the 1910 I.O.O.F. changes will occur based upon ad- Building. Civic activist Margot Welling- to diversity and that Main Street, or ing business(s) while using nearby pub- ditional input provided. N ton has noted, “Everything good we love any pedestrian-oriented retail street lic parking for their parking deficiencies in this city was fought for by ordinary cannot provide both the density and and paying nothing for the privilege people, paid for mostly by private money the parking on the same site, along the will be winners. News, and accomplished against the city’s will. same street and still provide the street So, knowing all this, the question In a crazy way, that is why so many of us with spaces(s) for diversity. Therefore for me was, what do we do now? And love this city. We are each responsible for we know that for downtown to be as here’s what we did. We passed a new sports saving a little corner of it.” successful as it can be, it must be a rule. The new rule is, from now on the Now don’t get me wrong, if one three-way partnership whereby property city will decide for the other partners and local believes as I do that density and diver- owners provide the density, business which new projects downtown must sity are the keys to a pedestrian envi- owners provide the diversity and the provide parking and which ones don’t. ronment, then one must also believe city provides the parking. This way Me, I look at it this way. If we look hot picks that this prime Main Street corner is downtown really does belong to every- to the past to see where to go in the grossly “underutilized”. So, I hope we one and it really is a partnership. future, and one believes as I do that the can all agree that this old pool hall Here’s our problem. New density and idea is to find leaders with the will and should be laid to rest and replaced with new diversity without new parking is a the wisdom to lead us there, then now a new much larger building with new three-legged revitalization partnership that we know the past and the present, spaces for new diversity. So goodbye old with only two legs, destined to collapse. and we know who our new leaders are friend, its been fun knowing you. And here’s why. We know because the and we know their new plan, the only Receive Unfortunately, along with change latest downtown parking study tells us so questions left unanswered for me is that parking downtown is near satura- did we find leaders with the will and information on comes consequences. For example, this old pool hall is the only place left in tion and at saturation in some parts. And the wisdom to lead downtown into the what’s happening downtown Pleasanton where the ones we know, or at least I know, of no land future. And will their new revitalization north of Abby Street that’s suitable, or plan be based on how pedestrian friend- in your community who work in the kitchens and bus the tables in downtown’s many fine restau- feasible, or not already being used for ly and locally owned these new projects by email every day. rants can go after work and drink a beer parking, that’s within expectable walk- are and what they add to the whole, or with their friends, the other restaurant ing distances to Main Street for the vast by other means or measurements. And workers, before getting on a bus and majority of downtown’s drive-in business only time will reveal the answer to those Sign up today at going home. Now it’s going to be, serve customers – including the north end of questions --- time reveals everything. PleasantonWeekly.com the Railroad Corridor. —Robert W. Byrd
Pleasanton WeeklyÊUÊJune 27, 2014 U Page 7 NEWSFRONT Kay Huff’s Ladies Day at the Races another success More than 100 join in annual event with men competing across the aisle
BY JEB BING Last week’s Kay’s Ladies Day at the Races attracted more than 100 women as the annual event orga- nized by Kay Huff continued for its 23rd year. And again, she had competition from a group of men, mostly local Rotarians led by a disgruntled Mike Hosterman, who a few years back had been told to sit someplace else. So his mostly-male group took seats across the aisle. It wasn’t exactly World Cup competition, but the two groups had fun jostling for the Winner’s Circle, if there had been one. Huff started assembling women interested in attending the races in 1992. Each year, the numbers have grown and Huff makes sure it’s not only a fun day but also entertaining and educational. Each year, a few women join the group for the first time to try their hand on betting on a few of the horses, with most usually coming back the following year. CHUCK DECKERT “All of us have a great time,” Huff More than 100 women joined in Kay Huff’s annual Ladies Day at the Races last week at the Alameda County Fairgrounds racetrack. They brought their said. Pleasanton Weekly newspapers to read between the races. Hosterman’s group has also grown in numbers, although pho- tos taken by photographer Chuck events, everyone is there for the the benefits of Rotary. the winning horses for the day Along with the album portrait, the Deckert show a few women and obligatory photos with Kay shar- In fact, he told a luncheon meet- and would share it with those who ladies also pose holding a copy men crossing the aisle to sit with ing her growing and updated ing of the Rotary Club of Pleasan- joined his grandstand seats. If any of of the Pleasanton Weekly for a the other’s group. album of photos from earlier ton at the Fairgrounds just before the men’s bets won, we haven’t heard traditional photo this newspaper On these “Day at the Races” years, and Hosterman talking up Thursday’s races that he had picked about it. publishes after each event. N
must take place in the hot sum- continues long-term,” Fialho said. WATER mer months to be effective, wait- “My sense is that they are just too Continued from Page 5 ing until November and December small to have the wherewithal that when the public doesn’t use much East Bay MUD and the San Fran- age alert in May. Some have done water anyhow won’t achieve the cisco Public Utilities Commission much more, he said, including Koll year-end goal. have.” Center, a business park that has Smith said that although his de- To encourage residents and busi- reduced its consumption by 71% partment has received hundreds of nesses to conserve, Dublin and over its 2013 usage. calls from residents worried about Livermore have raised rates across Pleasanton’s municipal water facing penalties of 25, 50 or 100% the board. usage also has achieved notable re- if they don’t use less than last year, “When you raise rates, those who ductions, Smith said. From March very few penalties have been as- can pay more just continue to use 13 to May 13, all city combined sessed. what they’ve been doing,” Fialho meters showed 70% less water use “Truthfully, only 2.8% of the said. “It does nothing to conserve.” over 2013, for a total of 32.5 mil- customers we’ve monitored since Pleasanton’s new rules, however, lion gallons saved, or 541,000 gal- the start of this program would keep rates the same, but add penal- lons a day. So far this year, parks have faced a penalty, a very small ties if 25% reductions aren’t made are tracking at 30% less, or about 8 margin,” Smith said. “Even in one based on comparisons with con- million gallons so far. neighborhood of very large homes sumption in the same water billing Smith said the push is on now and yards, there would have been period in 2013. to make sure everyone joins in the only 7.4% penalized. We’ll see in These can be steep. Customers conservation effort. The cutbacks the next billing if that percentage who fail to meet the 25% manda- holds.” tory cutback will be charged an Smith said California’s water additional $4 per unit of water drought could last at least two used above that amount and fined years and, woefully, Pleasanton $50. For a second offense, the is among cities that are in the extra unit charge goes to $8 with worst shape during the crisis. a $100 penalty; a third time will Other Tri-Valley cities have also cost $12 a unit and a $250 pen- mandated cuts of 25%, while alty; a fourth violation will raise San Francisco, which has its the unit cost to $12 with a $500 own water supply, and the East penalty. The online Bay Municipal Utility District Smith said waivers will be issued (EBMUD) with its large reser- for those water users who long ago guide to voirs are hardly affected. cut back and whose bills prove However Zone 7, the Tri-Valley’s it. Also exempted will be families Pleasanton supplier, is one of the smallest that have added newborns or older water districts in the state with less relatives in their households since a businesses political clout to make demands in year ago. Sacramento for larger allocations It’s the big users Smith and his Visit and not enough tax dollars to ex- department are going after. Getting pand its own reservoirs. those customers to comply with the ShopPleasanton “I am concerned about Zone 7’s 25% cut will go a long way toward today ability to actually navigate such solving Pleasanton’s water shortage a serious issue if this drought this year, he said. N Page 8ÊUÊJune 27, 2014 UÊPleasanton Weekly Business News Edited by Jeb Bing, [email protected]
start to their day and the best teaches their families how to cook Safeway, entertainment industry raise chance to excel. Research shows healthy, affordable meals. that children who eat breakfast The Project Advisory Committee have better school attendance and will help identify hunger programs $4.5 million to fight child hunger achieve higher math scores than throughout the U.S. that will make children who lack adequate access a difference in reducing childhood Grateful to customers The year-round campaign en- “We are grateful to our custom- to food. hunger. courages individuals and commu- ers, who heard our call to action In the coming months, the Hun- “We are so thankful for the in- who responded to call nities to get involved in solving this and chose to help make a difference ger Is Project Advisory Committee credible support for this campaign widespread problem that too often in the lives of children,” said Larree will be convened, enlisting hunger from Safeway customers, employ- to action, Safeway goes unnoticed and, according to Renda, Safeway Inc. executive vice experts from across the country ees and the general public through- executive says the USDA, affects one in five chil- president and chairwoman of The with a critical understanding of out the U.S., who agree it’s simply dren in America. Safeway Foundation. how hunger affects children from unacceptable for our children to The Pleasanton-based Safeway Concurrent with the launch “We are off to an amazing start and rural to urban communities. be hungry,” said EIF president and Foundation and the Entertainment of Hunger Is, public service an- will continue our efforts with the These experts will include repre- CEO Lisa Paulsen. Industry Foundation (EIF) have nouncements appeared on televi- Entertainment Industry Foundation sentatives of Hunger Is collabora- “Too many kids are not getting raised more than $4.5 million since sion, in print, online and out-of- and Viola Davis, who is a passionate tors Feeding America, the nation’s the nutrition they need to reach April in their support of Hunger Is, home media featuring Academy champion in the fight against child- leading domestic hunger-relief their full potential, and we’re privi- a joint charitable initiative designed Award-nominated actress Viola hood hunger,” she added. charity; the Food Research and leged to work with The Safeway to raise awareness and funds to Davis, who shared her personal Funds raised through the cam- Action Center (FRAC), the lead- Foundation to engage communities fight childhood hunger in America. story about growing up hungry. paign will go toward programs ing national nonprofit organization across the country in helping to The campaign kicked off in April “I am so thrilled at the incredible focused on eradicating childhood working to improve public policies change that,” she added. with a month-long in-store fund- success of this important initiative,” hunger and improving health-relat- and public-private partnerships to More information about the raiser in more than 1,300 Safeway Davis said. “Millions of children go ed and education outcomes. eradicate hunger and malnutrition issue is available at HungerIs.org, stores across the U.S. Additional to bed hungry every night and it’s During this inaugural year, in the U.S.; and No Kid Hungry, along with ways for individuals to funds were generated through on- time we all take action to end this breakfast programs have been the a campaign which connects kids donate. N line donations at HungerIs.org. nationwide problem.” focus, giving children a healthy in need with nutritious food and — Jeb Bing
JFK University to offer Saturday Law School tomorrow at Stoneridge Mall
Free legal education tion to eviction? Ora Prochovnick, Ian Kelley will review your rights in series open to public director of the JFK University Col- these and similar situations. lege of Law’s clinical programs, will JFK University law professors address these issues and more. Aug. 23: Divorce and Family Law will discuss legal topics at a series Issues of free Saturday events at Ston- July 12: Elder Law and Conser- What are the general rules regard- % % eridge Shopping Center starting vatorships ing divorce, division of property, RATE APR tomorrow (June 28) and running Under what circumstances can custody and visitation? What steps through Sept. 13. the court order a conservatorship should someone anticipating a di- * &" The program is open to the pub- for the elderly or disabled? Why vorce take? Commissioner Josanna lic and space is limited, with res- are durable powers of attorney for Berkow will lead this discussion. "$!&"! ervations required. The presenta- health care and finances important? tions are for general informational Pamela Zimba will discuss these and Sept. 13: Small Claims Court purposes and do not provide legal other topics of importance affecting Disputes up to $10,000 can be advice. the increasing elderly population. heard in Small Claims Court. Com- The meetings will be held in the missioner Robert Broughton will National University System Stu- July 26: Bankruptcy and Debtor/ provide insights on how to present dent Success Center, located on the Creditor Issues or defend your case. He has served lower level near Macy’s and Califor- When can you invoke legal pro- as deputy public defender for Tu- nia Pizza Kitchen. tections or remedies when faced lare and Contra Costa counties. All of the discussions will start at with debt collection issues? When John F. Kennedy University Col- 10:30 a.m., ending at noon, with can bankruptcy be a viable option lege of Law professors have de- the dates, topics and presenters fol- for individuals or small businesses? signed this seminar series to offer lowing: Joan Grimes, a bankruptcy attor- free, accessible legal information ney for over 25 years, will lead the on topics people encounter in their Saturday: Landlord/Tenant Issues discussion. everyday lives. These professors are What legal protections do tenants donating their time to present these have from eviction, rent increases, Aug. 9: Criminal Law seminars in their areas of expertise. uninhabitable conditions, withheld What are your rights when stopped Registration is required at www. deposits and other issues? What and questioned by police on the jfku.edu/Events. N remedies do landlords have in addi- street, in your car or at your home? — Jeb Bing TAKE US ALONG Just like heaven: The Boyces and Lewmans of Pleasanton (! $&$ $&% ' celebrated a school break with ## *") $ the Pleasanton Weekly on top All rates and offers are effective as of June 24, 2014 for new applications only, for a limited time, and subject to change of Heavenly Ski resort. without notice. 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Payment Example: The information provided assumes the purpose of the loan is to purchase a property, with a loan amount of $600,000 and an estimated property value of $750,000. At a 4.125% To submit your “Take Us Along” interest rate, the APR for this loan type is 4.217%, other rates and terms available. The monthly payment schedule would be 359 payments of $2,907.90 and 1 payment of $2,907.23 at an interest rate of 4.125%. Payments shown entry, email your photograph to do not include taxes or insurance, actual payments may be greater. The application of points will be determined by the [email protected]. loan to value (LTV) ratio combined with certain representative credit scores. Additional points also apply to certain cash-out refinance transactions, certain condominium transactions, and some transactions with subordinate financing Be sure to identify who is in the that will reflect on the Good Faith Estimate and/or Settlement Statement. *For purchase transactions, the rate cannot be locked until PenFed has received a ratified purchase agreement. Investment properties not eligible for offers. The photo (names listed from left to maximum combined loan-to-value (CLTV) is 95%. The maximum LTV and CLTV for condominiums is 80%. The applicant right), the location, the date and is responsible for the following fees and costs at the time of closing: Origination fee, appraisal fee, tax service fee, title fees, transfer tax fees, credit report fee, flood cert fee, recording fee, survey if required and work verification fee, any relevant details about where escrow reserves and interest due until first payment. Other cost may be included due to program specific circumstances. you took your Weekly. This is not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Additional terms & conditions apply. Federally Insured by NCUA. Pleasanton WeeklyÊUÊJune 27, 2014 U Page 9 Opinion GUEST OPINION Pleasanton Weekly
Pleasanton steps up to the plate on water crisis PUBLISHER Gina Channell-Allen, Ext. 119 BY MAYOR JERRY THORNE water as a valuable resource. allotment needed. Pleasanton businesses are very Congratulations to Pleasanton California is facing one of the On May 6, the City Council involved in the water conserva- EDITORIAL residents and businesses on their most severe droughts on record, voted to declare a Stage III Water tion effort. Hacienda’s James Paxson Editor water conserva- with three consecutive years of sub- Shortage, requiring a 25% reduc- says the park has reduced its water Jeb Bing, Ext. 118 tion efforts dur- normal rainfall and a snowpack tion in water consumption. use by over 35%. Hacienda’s his- Tri Valley Life Editor ing the drought. that was 15% of normal. Gov. Jerry Our community-wide reductions toric practice of weekly water meter Dolores Fox Ciardelli June 20 marked Brown declared a drought State of — including residents, businesses reading helps meet this target. Associate Editor the first day of Emergency in January and indi- and city facilities — reflect a 37% de- Russ Trapani and Natalie Wong, Jeremy Walsh, Ext. 111 summer, re- vidual local agencies followed suit. crease for June so far, and the 2014 owners of Sugarie Bake Shop, re- Staff Reporter minding me that California cities have different year-to-date total reveals a 19.4% searched ways to conserve water Amanda Aguilar, Ext. 121 our water con- water sources, resulting in vary- reduction. In the billing period of and energy that resulted in utility Contributors servation must ing degrees of need between cities. March 13 to May 13, city facilities cost savings. Their oven works at Jay Flachsbarth, Cathy Jetter, continue dur- Eighty percent of Pleasanton’s water and parks logged a 32.5 million- an 89% efficiency level, a tankless Jerri Pantages Long, Mike Sedlak, ing the hot days Jerry Thorne is delivered by the State Water Proj- gallon reduction, or a 70% decrease water heater instantly heats water Nancy Lyness ahead. Doing so ect through Zone 7 Water Agency. over the same time in 2013. to Health Department specs and will lead to protecting our potable In April, the state announced a This success is the result of their industrial dishwasher uses ART & PRODUCTION water supply. I think many of us reduction in its potable water deliv- working together — residents, three-quarters of a gallon of water, Design Director would concede that this experience ery by 75%, causing us to manage businesses, the city and the Pleas- compared to other commercial Shannon Corey has given us greater respect for with three-quarters of the water anton Unified School District. To models using two gallons. Assistant Design Director profile a few examples of these ef- Thanks to all who are making Lili Cao forts, let’s start with Jan Batcheller changes to conserve our potable Designers who called the city’s Water Conser- water supply. Please keep up the Linda Atilano, Colleen Hench, vation Hotline to learn about her good work; we still have a long way Rosanna Leung, Paul Llewellyn Livermore Valley Senior Living water usage. City staff came to Jan’s to go. Learn more about water con- ADVERTISING home and explained sprinkler and servation; contact the city’s Water Multimedia Account Manager “A Home Away From Home” scheduler adjustments. Then, Jan Conservation Hotline at 931-5504 Mary Hantos, Ext. 222 decided to remove her front lawn or www.pleasantonwaterconserva- Account Executive and install drought-tolerant land- tion.com. N Karen Klein, Ext. 122 scaping. She loves her new yard. Editor’s note: Jerry Thorne is Real Estate Sales David and Anne Stark had their completing his first two-year term as Carol Cano, Ext. 226 ivermore Valley Senior Living in Livermore, CA is the only front yard transformed with drought- mayor of Pleasanton after serving seven Ad Services Manager state licensed 20-bed Assisted Living community in the tolerant landscaping and enjoy the years on the City Council. A retired Jennifer Lindberg, 650-223-6595 East Bay with licensed nurses on staff every day. We also reduced maintenance burden. “If we corporate executive with more than L BUSINESS have a Physician on staff that works closely with our residents and want to work in the garden, we do, 40 years in the private sector, he also their families, reinforcing our philosophy of always providing but we don’t have to mow and trim served for 10 years on the city’s Parks & Business Associate Lisa Oefelein, Ext. 126 the highest quality of care for every resident. Our medical staff is every week,” David said. Recreation Commission. Circulation Director an essential component to how we service the needs of residents Zachary Allen, Ext. 141 with a higher acuity of care (i.e. Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia, Parkinson’s disease, Diabetes, etc.) Front Office Coordinator LETTERS Sierra Rhodes, Ext. 124 We are a 20-bed assisted living HOW TO REACH THE WEEKLY community that provides: July 4th Special Compostable bags banned year at Amador Valley High School Phone: (925) 600-0840 s 24 hour care $500 OFF Fax: (925) 600-9559 1st Month’s Rent by Pleasanton Garbage and a lifeguard at the Dolores Bengt- s .URSES ON STAFF FULL TIME EVERY DAY for new move-ins Editorial email: during July Dear Editor, son Aquatic Center, prevented the s 0(93)#)!. /. 34!&& Pleasanton garbage refuses to ac- drowning of an adult swimmer. [email protected] [email protected] s Socialization and companionship cept certified green compostable The swimmer had gone to a bags made from plant fiber for use depth where she was unable to Display Sales email: s Nourishment of the emotional and physical well-being of [email protected] our residents in the green can. Due to this ridicu- touch the bottom of the pool lous position, I am now forced to and found herself in trouble and Classifieds Sales email: s Assistance with activities of daily living including bathing, [email protected] dressing, grooming, toileting, and medication management put my compostable kitchen waste struggling for the surface. Char- in plastic bags in the trash where it lie recognized the situation and Circulation email: circulation@ s Well-balanced, nutritious, delicious meals and snacks will go into the landfill. responded by entering the pool PleasantonWeekly.com s Full calendar of educational, social, and cultural events The reason they give for this is and proceeding to the swimmer. s Life enrichment programs that the bio bags don’t break down I and another swimmer also con- s Scenic gardens fast enough. Why, then, do other verged on the struggling swim- The Pleasanton Weekly is published cities use them? With the drought, mer. Charlie arrived first and s All the comforts of home every Friday by Embarcadero Media, I can no longer hose out my green took command of the situation 5506 Sunol Blvd., Suite 100, Pleasanton, CA Our personalized care program enables our caregivers to better can to keep it from smelling. Their and pulled the struggling swim- 94566; (925) 600-0840. communicate with our residents and their families. Our program fi rst ridiculous suggestion to wrap food mer to safety. The depth of the Mailed at Periodicals Postage Rate, USPS identifi es individual needs, establishes goals for each of these areas waste in newspaper is ludicrous. water where this incident began 020407. and then together we fi nd the best solution. As for stuffing it in milk cartons, I was not deep, but any depth is of don’t use enough milk to do that. consequence to an inexperienced The Pleasanton Weekly is mailed upon request We invite you to come for a tour today! to homes and apartments in Pleasanton. Pleasanton needs to get serious swimmer. Community support of the Pleasanton (925) 447-LIVE (5483) | www.LVSL.net about this drought and support those I wanted to recognize Charlie Weekly is welcomed and encouraged through of us who are trying to save water by for her alert, prompt, selfless and memberships at levels of $5, $8 or $10 per not using the garbage disposal. In the courageous response. She demon- month through automatic credit card charges. meantime, my compostable waste strated a level of maturity and a Print subscriptions for businesses or residents is headed straight for the landfill in command of the situation beyond of other communities are $60 per year or $100 plastic bags. What a waste. her years. She also sustained an for two years. Go to www.PleasantonWeekly. —Roberta Lewis injury to her ankle while re- com to sign up and for more information. sponding. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to It might be easy to discount Pleasanton Weekly, 5506 Sunol Blvd., Suite 100, Teen’s prompt response Charlie’s actions as “no big deal,” Pleasanton, CA 94566. 3356 East Avenue, Livermore, CA 94550 prevents drowning but fortunately her response avert- © 2014 by Embarcadero Media. License #019200452 Dear Editor, ed what could have been a tragic All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. www.facebook.com/LivermoreValleySeniorLiving Last week, Charlie Ferris, a 16- event. year-old who will be a junior this —Jeff Quinn Page 10ÊUÊJune 27, 2014 UÊPleasanton Weekly OPINION
EDITORIAL THE OPINION OF THE WEEKLY Summer’s here!
Don’t be left out in the New city budget of $97.1 million sun without your shades!
showing steady gains Need a prescription in your sunglasses? No Pleasanton’s municipal budget for fiscal year of $4.1 million, and a $100,000 increase in problem! We have a 2014-15, which goes into effect next Tuesday business license taxes to a new total of $3.7 (July 1), shows a steady recovery in revenues million. vast array of lens styles and since the peak years of 2007-08, but clearly the Not everything was better, however. Slower colors to choose from. effects of the recent recession aren’t over yet. sales than expected at the Firehouse and Ama- Originally adopted last June, the two-year dor theaters have caused estimates to drop in Stop by to see the latest in budget was based on estimates of current finan- the coming year by $157,000. On the expense cial conditions. The “mid-term” budget, as this side of the budget, the city is also projecting a sunglass trends and style. second-year phase is known, calls for General $1.9 million increase in its projected expen- Fund revenues of $97.1 million, a $2.6 million ditures of $95 million the coming fiscal year. increase over fiscal year 2013-14 with property Reserves remain steady in the new year at $13 Serving the Tri-Valley for 31 years taxes coming in at $51.4 million, a $901,460 million, including $9.7 million set aside if increase, and sales tax revenue rising $1.4 mil- there’s a return of economic uncertainties. lion to $21.7 million. Although the 2014-15 budget is based on Looking at property taxes, the gain is mainly an economic recovery that has been slow, attributed to higher residential and commercial spotty and somewhat uncertain, it projects assessments, with homes selling at or above that Pleasanton will continue to keep and what they were priced at the height of the mar- attract businesses and that our residential ket in 2009. Higher sales taxes are the result of real estate market with its rising prices and retail sales at Pleasanton Gateway Center and property taxes will continue at a pace that’s the Stoneridge Creek retirement community been faster than any other community in the being added to the tax rolls. Tri-Valley — the result of the city’s continued 463-2150 6155 Stoneridge Drive, Suite 100, Pleasanton Other increases in the coming year included quality of life, safe community and high-rated (at the corner of Stoneridge & Franklin, between Hopyard & I-680) $250,000 in hotel/motel taxes to a new total public schools features. N
Pleasanton WeeklyÊUÊJune 27, 2014 U Page 11 Community Pulse POLICE BULLETIN Two men, two women arrested Santa Rita Jail in Dublin. UÊÊVÌâiÊÀi«ÀÌÊi`ÊÌÊÌ iÊÀiVÛiÀÞÊvÊ>ÊÃÌiÊÛi ViÊÊ on drug counts after traffic stop In other police reports: June 19, police said. A traffic enforcement stop led to the arrest of four people UÊÊ`}Êv} ÌÊÊ->`>Ü`Ê ÀÛiÊÀiÃÕÌi`ÊÊ>Ê>LÀ>`ÀÊ The caller reported a Ford E-150 van was parked along on suspicion of drug-related offenses on June 16, according retriever being injured June 16. Pickens Lane for a long time, and responding officers later to police. The Labrador was bit by a pit bull mix and received discovered the vehicle was reported stolen from Petaluma. An officer stopped a vehicle on the 900 block of Hopkins stitches to treat its injuries, according to police. No arrests have been made. Way for allegedly failing to use its turn signal and not stop- UÊ ÌiÃÊ ÜÀÌ Ê ÀiÊ Ì >Ê f£]äääÊ ÜiÀiÊ Ài«ÀÌi`ÞÊ ÃÌiÊ UÊ>ÀÃÌÞ}ÊÌÃÊÜÀÌ ÊÀiÊÌ >Êf{]xääÊÜiÀiÊ>i}i`ÞÊ ping at the limit line of a stop sign. from a Kaiser office on Hacienda Drive. ÃÌiÊ>vÌiÀÊ>ÊÕÜÊ«iÀÃÊLÕÀ}>Àâi`Ê>Ê >Ê-ÌÀiiÌÊ The officer contacted the vehicle occupants, and one of The reporting party contacted police on June 18 and said salon last week. the men had a search clause because of a prior conviction, the theft occurred between June 12-13, according to police According to police, the burglary occurred between June police said. reports. 20-21 at Garret and Company Hair Designs. Police reports allege the officer found heroin, metham- The items stolen included an HP laptop, an iPhone 5 and The culprit gained entry through the rear door, which phetamine, psilocybin and mushrooms in the possession of a worker’s Kaiser access card, police said. The case remains ÀiÃÕÌi`ÊÊf£ääÊÜÀÌ ÊvÊ`>>}iÊÌÊÌ iÊÀi>ÀÊ`ÀÊ >`iÊ Thomas Gloede and Amber Lynn Montano. under investigation of the salon, police said. Gloede, 26, and Montano, 25, were arrested for suspect- UÊ >VÞ½ÃÊÃÃÊ «ÀiÛiÌÊ vvViÀÃÊ i«i`Ê i>`Ê «ViÊ ÌÊ >Ê Ê Ê>]ÊÇÊâ««iÀÊ«ÕV iÃÊÜÌ Ê >ÀVÕÌÌ}ÊÃVÃÃÀÃÊÜiÀiÊ ed possession of a controlled substance for sale, possession 20-year-old Windsor man suspected of stealing from the ÃÌi]Ê>ÃÊÜiÊ>ÃÊ >ÀÊV««iÀÃÊ>`ÊfnäÊÊV>à ]Ê>VVÀ`}Ê of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine store. to police reports. No arrests have been made. and violation of probation. Andrew Michael Bahno is accused of taking two pairs Under the law, those arrested are considered innocent The other two vehicle occupants — Mitch Dunne and of jeans and one shirt from Macy’s at Stoneridge Mall after until convicted. Courtney Montano — were arrested on suspicion of pos- the unpaid-for items were found in his possession June 19, —Amanda Aguilar sessing a controlled substance. All four were booked at according to police.
James Leroy Willows, Jr. POLICE REPORT The Pleasanton Police Department made Commercial burglary Alcohol violation this information available. October 21, 1931 – June 21, 2014 ■ 2:45 p.m. in the 1200 block of ■ 7:27 a.m., intersection of Peters June 15 Quarry Lane Avenue and St. Mary Street; DUI Jim Willows, a loving husband, ■ 11:28 p.m., intersection of W. Las father and man of service to his Drug violation June 18 Positas Boulevard and I-680 community, passed away quietly at ■ 12:49 a.m. in the 1800 block of Theft Theft Santa Rita Road his home in Pleasanton Saturday ■ 11:49 a.m. in the 9400 block of ■ 10:35 a.m. in the 5800 block of ■ 9:10 p.m., intersection of Old Blessing Drive; theft from auto Owens Drive; auto theft night while surrounded by family Vineyard and Vineyard avenues and friends. He was a very loving ■ 2:21 p.m. in the 4400 block of ■ 12:18 p.m. in the 1300 block of Theft from auto Hacienda Drive; theft from structure and passionate person who worked Stoneridge Mall Road; shoplifting ■ 10:50 a.m. in the 800 block of Main ■ 5:22 p.m. in the 4200 block of hard to be a role model for those ■ 12:59 p.m. in the 1100 block of Street Chapman Way; theft from auto Stoneridge Mall Road; shoplifting who looked up to him. Commercial burglary Fraud ■ 11:07 p.m. in the 500 block of Main Born in Vallejo in 1931, the only ■ 4:38 p.m. in the 600 block of Main ■ 1:29 p.m. in the 3200 block of Street; auto theft son of James Willows, Sr. and Street Vineyard Avenue Drug violation Marguerite Battery ■ 2:40 p.m. in the 5000 block of Rigatti ■ 3:05 p.m. in the 11900 block of Patterson Willows, he grew up in ■ 9:46 p.m. in the 3800 block of Circle Dublin Canyon Road Vineyard Avenue the Bay Area and studied Physics Drug violation ■ 6:12 p.m. in the 11500 block of at UC Berkeley, where he was a champion on the competitive June 16 ■ 4:45 p.m. in the 4500 block of Dublin Canyon Road Rosewood Drive Vandalism chess team. He began his career as a nuclear physicist at Theft Alcohol violation ■ 5:09 p.m. in the 4300 block of Black the Lawrence Livermore Lab. In 1960, he lost most of his ■ 12:03 p.m. in the 3900 block of ■ 7:13 p.m. in the 6800 block of Santa Avenue vision due to a degenerative eye disease and continued the rest Valley Avenue; theft from auto Rita Road of his career as a computer scientist at the Lab before retiring ■ 5:34 p.m. in the 2300 block of Santa Vandalism June 21 in 1993. Rita Road; auto theft ■ 11:39 p.m. in the 300 block of Abbie DUI Helping others was always an important part of Jim’s life. Drug violation Street ■ 12:35 a.m. at the intersection of El He was a deacon in the Presbyterian Church before converting ■ 3:24 p.m. in the 5100 block of Charro Road and I 580 to Catholicism in 1987 and joining the Knights of Columbus. Independence Drive June 19 Commercial burglary ■ 3:50 p.m. in the 900 block of Theft ■ 7:44 a.m. in the 4600 block of First After losing his vision, he turned his passion for helping Hopkins Way others toward the blind community, serving as Vice President ■ 10:22 a.m. in the 300 block of Mary Street DUI Street; auto theft and then President of the National Federation of the Blind of ■ 9:09 a.m. in the 200 block of Main ■ 11:06 p.m. in the 300 block of Main ■ Street California. During his years of service, he accomplished many 2:14 p.m. in the 6900 block of Lassen Street Street; auto theft Drug violation things, including co-authoring SB105, a state bill to improve June 17 ■ 2:34 p.m. in the 2200 block of ■ 10:47 a.m. in the 1200 block of services for the visually impaired in California, and he received Stoneridge Mall Road; shoplifting Quarry Lane Theft from auto several awards from the governor’s office. ■ 3:54 p.m. in the 1400 block of Graffiti After retirement, Jim spent most of his time with his family ■ 7:26 a.m. in the 5100 block of Stoneridge Mall Road; shoplifting Hopyard Road ■ 1:50 p.m. in the 3400 block of and two dogs, but he continued to work toward his life-long Commercial burglary Smoketree Commons Graffiti goal of improving quality of life for the visually impaired. His ■ 9:44 p.m. in the 1400 block of ■ 7:19 p.m. in the 3900 block of First ■ 9:43 a.m. in the 7000 block of Stoneridge Mall Road Street favorite hobbies were listening to books on tape, cheering for Pleasanton Avenue Battery the San Francisco Giants and Cal Berkeley sports teams, and Battery June 20 staying abreast of current events on news radio. Battery ■ 4:53 p.m. in the 2000 block of ■ 2:31 p.m. in the 100 block of W. Neal Stoneridge Mall Road In the last few years, his health and mobility gradually Street ■ 12:04 a.m. in the 300 block of St. Mary Street ■ 10:12 p.m. in the 5000 block of declined due to a battle with cancer as well as his age, although Pleasanton Avenue he fought vigilantly and never lost his strong positive spirit. He is survived by his wife Mary Willows and his sons and their partners Jimmy Willows and Mike Kawalek and Donny and Katie Willows. He will always be remembered as a strong and caring person. Memorial Service Saturday, June 28, 2014, 11:00 am with a Fresh news reception following at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First St., Pleasanton, CA. In lieu of flowers, he wished for donations and delivered daily contributions to be sent to the National Federation of the Blind Sign up today at PleasantonWeekly.com of California, Inc. PAID OBITUARY
Page 12ÊUÊJune 27, 2014 UÊPleasanton Weekly Pleasanton Ridge won Best Kept Secret Treasure of Pleasanton and Best Place to Walk, Jog or Bike.
2014 Readers Choice winners range across the Pleasanton spectrum
STORY BY CIERRA BAILEY AND JEREMY WALSH View PHOTOS BY AMANDA AGUILAR AND CIERRA BAILEY The balloting is wrapped up, the votes are counted and we’re ready to reveal who Pleasanton Weekly readers chose as their favorite local restaurants, shops, services and more in the 2014 Readers Choice contest. With 18,216 confirmed votes this year, our loyal readers shared their opinions about which businesses, professionals from the and places are the best of the best in categories within services, health and fitness, beauty and style, epicure, kids and pets, home and vehicle maintenance, and rest and recreation. Top choices varied from committed “mom and pop” opera- tions to burgeoning businesses to popular franchises. They’re located all over the city, and their Pleasanton roots range from months to decades, and everything in between. Check out the winners. See how your favorites stacked up, top and learn a little more about Pleasanton in the process.
Pleasanton WeeklyÊUÊJune 27, 2014 U Page 13 Pleasanton Weekly Readers Choice 2014
AT YOUR SERVICE! 2014
Best Bank — Wells Fargo. For a quick and convenient banking experience with a team dedicated to customer service, Wells Fargo is where our readers like to go. This is the third straight win for Wells Fargo.
Best Computer Repair — Tri-Valley PC Medic. Dealing with too many pop-ups? Hard drive running slow? Com- puter caught a virus? Whatever the issue, Tri-Valley PC Medic can nurse your computer right back to health. Quick and reliable service is why the Medic has been our readers’ top choice for seven of the last eight years.
Best Credit Union — Patelco Credit Union. Patelco Credit Union has earned the trust of our readers to help them reach their financial goals, as Patelco has been chosen as this category’s best for the second straight year. Best Financial Planning Firm (Non-Brokerage) — Wealth Management & Associates. Building your personal wealth requires lots of planning and strategic decision-making, which are Wealth Management & Associates areas of expertise. They’ve earned this title twice, back to back.
Christina “Chrissy” Gray (left), owner of Best Photographer winner Bella Luna Studios, takes a picture of her son, Ethan.
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Page 14ÊUÊJune 27, 2014 UÊPleasanton Weekly Pleasanton Weekly Readers Choice 2014 Thank you for voting A Touch of Health Best Day Spa 2014 3 Years In A Row!
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Since 1988, A Touch of Health’s goal has always been to offer you the very best in skin care, massage therapy and hand and Our readers chose Patelco Credit Union as the Best Credit Union for the second straight year. foot care in an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. I invite you to experienceLet some me of treat the amazing you bodylike and royalty. skin treatments. Best Financial Planning Brokerage Senior portraits, new born photos, family shots — Charles Schwab. For three years in ... you name it, Bella Luna Studios snaps it. a row, Charles Schwab has been the best to our readers. Individual financial help, acces- Best Real Estate Agent — Gina 2013 2012 sibility and free workshops are just a few of the Piper, Better Homes & Gardens. Gina ways Charles Schwab makes financial planning Piper provides quality customer service with [email protected] smooth for its clients. passion and sincerity, and she stays up-to-date on the community she serves. Piper has held the www.atouchofhealthdayspa.com Best Local Insurance Agent — top spot as best real estate agent since 2012. Renee Huber-State Farm. Renee Huber 80 Mission Dr. Ste A, Pleasanton, 925-484-1726 has won the hearts of our readers for the second Best Real Estate Team — Fabulous time with her warm and friendly demeanor. She Properties and Moxley Team (tie). provides personal and professional advice, so Sisters Donna Garrison and Susan Schall are you’ll really feel like you’re talking to a good committed to helping you buy, sell and love neighbor. your home, and clients agree, with testimoni- als describing the team as professional, patient Best Mortgage Company — Vintage and welcoming. The Moxley Team comes from Thank you for voting Mortgage Group. Specializing in consumer four generations of real estate experience, and credit help and government home loans, Vintage mother-son duo of Kris and Tyler Moxley know Bella Luna Studios Mortgage Group goes above and beyond to help how to keep clients happy with their real estate 2014 its clients. This is the group’s first victory in this knowledge and efficiency. “Best of Pleasanton” category. Best Real Estate Office — Better for photography seven years in a row. Best Mortgage Professional — Brian Homes & Garden. Experienced agents LeBars Vintage Mortgage. Brian LeBars with the keen ability to assess the true value of is described by clients as a man of integrity who a property are what Better Homes & Garden is attentive to your needs. If you need to get a prides its company on, and that has certainly 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 loan, manage your mortgage or refinance your served our readers well. home, our readers say Brian LeBars is the man for the job. Best Title Company — Chicago Title. Described as professional and diligent, I truly appreciate Best Photographer — Bella Luna Chicago Title provides clients with the help they Studios. Seven times in a row Bella Luna Stu- need and takes the stress and frustration out of your vote and dios has snagged the title of best photographer. escrow. continued confidence in my work.
Sincerely, HEALTH & Christina Gray Owner and FITNESS photographer 2014
Self-portrait with family Best Acupuncture — Eastern Medi- of its own as readers’ favorite chiropractic office. cal. Eastern Medical has proven that being Family, newborn, corporate, campaign poked with needles can actually be an enjoyable Best Health Club — ClubSport and headshots - $400 experience, as the father-daughter duo Mason Pleasanton. ClubSport is where our readers and Theresa Shen and staff have once again been go to get fit in a modern and relaxing environment. One hour local session, all images included. voted as the best. It offers a variety of classes and training to be Please inquire for more details. active and healthy, and it has been our readers’ Best Chiropractic Office — Amador top choice for eight years straight. Valley Chiropractic Group. The team at bella luna studios Amador Valley Chiropractic Group offer the keys Best Hearing Services Provider — Photography to living a healthy and holistic lifestyle in addition Hearing Services. By now you’ve prob- to joint- and muscle-related healing. The group ably heard that Hearing Services uses state-of- Visit us at www.bellalunastudios.com shared this title last year; this year it’s in a league the-art technology to make hearing crisp and or call Christina Gray at 925.998.1171
Pleasanton WeeklyÊUÊJune 27, 2014 U Page 15 Pleasanton Weekly Readers Choice 2014
Alexander Crispim (right), owner of Best Martial Arts Studio winner Crispim BJJ Barra Brothers, ClubSport was our readers’ choice for Best Health Club. leads a kids Brazilian jiu-jitsu class. clear, and that’s part of the reason Hearing Best Martial Arts Studio — your peepers checked. tiple trails and a spectacular view that will Services has been named the best twice Crispim BJJ Barra Brothers. strengthen your love for nature’s beauty. in a row. Crispim BJJ Barra Brothers provides a Best Place to Buy Fitness Equip- Just ask our readers; they’ve voted the family-oriented environment that promotes ment and Apparel — Fleet Feet. ridge as the best walking, jogging and bik- Best Massage — Healthy Ne- strength, discipline and teamwork. They’ve On your marks, get set, go! Fleet Feet, for ing location every year since 2008. cessity Massage. The staff at Healthy been leading the way as the best martial the third time in a row, has been named Necessity Massage sure know how to give arts studio each year since 2012. the best one-stop shop for your walking, Best Yoga/Pilates — Zen Pilates a great rubdown, according to our readers running and fitness needs. & Fitness. For the fourth year in a row, who have praised these massage therapists’ Best Optometrist — Foothill Op- Zen Pilates & Fitness has been chosen by gifted hands by voting them as the best tometric Group. If your vision is Best Place to Walk, Jog or Bike our readers as the best place to find peace, massage around for five of the last six blurry, get there in a hurry. Our readers — Pleasanton Ridge. If the great tranquility, healing and a great workout years. have chosen Foothill Optometric Group outdoors is calling your name, Pleasanton through its friendly classes and personal for the second time as the best place to get Ridge is where you can experience mul- training.
THANK YOU PLEASANTON FOR VOTING GENE'S FINE FOODS "BEST GROCERY STORE"
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Page 16ÊUÊJune 27, 2014 UÊPleasanton Weekly Pleasanton WeeklyÊUÊJune 27, 2014 U Page 17 Thank you FOR VOTING Pleasanton Weekly Readers Choice 2014 FOR US AGAIN! Best Financial Planning Firm 2014 2014
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