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Photos Doug Kohen Jazz Festival Opens with a Bang By Cathy Tyson oth the Stanley Jazz Messengers and jazz education and pass along the many solo on the big stage. Athayde calls the Bthe Tom Scott Quartet rocked the life lessons music offers, along with Dia- band, “The ultimate democracy – every Acalanes Performing Arts Center on Fri- blo Foods and other local merchants. single person counts all the time.” day evening. The fresh-faced young teens Stanley’s Music Director Bob Athayde Songs included the captivating piece from Stanley and the more mature profes- thanked Tom Scott for graciously spend- “True North,” featuring a poignant Tom sional musicians lead by Grammy winner ing time with the band students; he told Scott solo on saxophone. Who couldn’t Tom Scott seamlessly entertained the the audience that Scott, “inspired us in so love the upbeat Ray Charles song “What crowd with a collection of soulful and many ways.” Scott said it’s all about in- I’d Say” to wrap up the evening - it swinging tunes. Friday’s show was part tention and focus – skills necessary to play brought the house down. Sharing the of the Lafayette Jazz Festival - all featur- music or in a job interview. He advised stage with professional musicians of this ing young talented performers. The Fes- the kids that you can’t be scared. caliber was clearly an inspiration to the tival is sponsored by the Generations in No fear was apparent among the Jazz younger players and a windfall for the au- Tom Scott Jazz Foundation, which seeks to preserve Messengers as all the kids got a chance to dience.
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Town News A2 - A7 By Bryant West After hosting a Selection Sunday points. Santa Clara's Marc Trasolini Letters to the Editor B1-B2 gathering at McKeon Pavilion, head scored 22 points to lead the Broncos. Sports C1-C4 coach Randy Bennett and the Gaels The championship game against Schools D6-D7 expressed their disappointment. “It’s Gonzaga was the third straight Saint Life in Lamorinda D1-D5 tough, that’s the only way I can ex- Mary’s-Gonzaga finals. The two HOW TO CONTACT US D2 plain it,” Bennett said. “It just teams split the previous two contests. Classified C2 doesn’t make a lot of sense to me Gonzaga secured the conference title Not to be Missed B3 how we’re not in… but we’re not, and the automatic ticket to the Dining B4 and that’s reality.” NCAA Tournament with a 75-63 Service Directory D4 While their record and tourna- win over the Gaels, as Saint Mary’s Community Service A8 ment resume alone would have guar- couldn’t close out and failed to score Shop Orinda D8 anteed them a spot in the NIT, the a field goal in the final four minutes. This Week Read About: Gaels also had guaranteed a spot in Senior guard Mickey McConnell BV House Returns A2 the NIT since they’d been the con- had 24 points while sophomore Economic Update A4 ference’s regular-season co-champi- guard Matthew Dellavedova had 21 Vision, Part 2 A6 Photo Tod Fierner ons. but the Gaels lost the inside battle as Teachers See Red D1 The Gaels advanced to the WCC two of their strongest big men – jun- THT's Other Acts D3 he Saint Mary’s Gaels men’s elsewhere on Selection Sunday. Championships for the third straight ior Rob Jones and Young each fouled Velomobile Spotted D6 Tbasketball team failed to secure After last year’s run to the Sweet 16, year thanks to a 73-64 over Santa out in the second half for Saint "Trashy" Attire at Springhill? D7 an NCAA Tournament bid after los- the Gaels instead played in the Na- Clara on Sunday, March 5th. Soph- Mary’s. Steven Gray had 15 and Summer Camp Guide E1-3 ing to rival Gonzaga in the WCC tional Invitational Tournament. The omore forward Mitchell Young had seven boards to lead the Zags, who Best of Lamorinda E4 Championships last week. The Gaels first game was yesterday, Tuesday, 17 points and seven rebounds, while had four players in double figures. also watched all the at-large bids go March 15 against Kent State. freshman guard Stephen Holt had 15 ... continued on page C3
Sports C1-C4 Life in Lamorinda D1-D5 Our Homes F1-F8 Lamorinda Baseball Preview True Grit in Lamorinda Staging—First Impressions Acalanes, Miramonte off to a strong start Count By Alex Crook By Sophie Braccini By Andrea A. Firth All three Lamorinda high Six-year-old Gigi (Angelina) Staging is akin to putting on school baseball teams are Kenney runs for her mother. 54- pearls with a little black dress, poised to have strong seasons year-old Gerald Starr walks to says Nikolene Isely who owns and a chance at the DFAL title. get his life back. Each of these Staging by Design based in Both Campolindo and Mira- Lamorinda residents is engaging Moraga. “The idea is to make monte are coming off North in a battle against adversity, the house, not the contents, the Coast Section (NCS) Champi- pushing their limits and finding star,” says Isely. Barbara Winters, onship ...read on page C2 the strength ... read on page L2 the owner... read on page OH1 Page: A2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011
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Waiting on a Final Decision for Burton Valley House By Cathy Tyson
Civic News Public Meetings City Council Monday, March 28, 7:00 pm Lafayette Library & Learning Center, East Elevation, front yard Lucas Drive Courtesy of Hertel Architects, Lafayette Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd he City Council found itself ers, and directed staff to prepare a cluded bedrooms upstairs for their “We’ve given up on having the Planning Commission Tfaced with an interesting pair resolution to deny the appeal. Fi- one and three year olds, now the kids upstairs, which has been dif- Monday, March 21, 7:00 pm of choices while reviewing the con- nalizing that resolution was contin- kids are two and four. The new de- ficult to wrap our heads around. Lafayette Library & Learning Center, troversial Burton Valley remodel ued to February 28 for the entire sign has their bedrooms on the This is a substantial change,” said Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd for the Polichio family. The Coun- Council to be present to vote. It ground floor. Joe Polichio adding they have cil could either deny the application was after 10:00 p.m. when the mat- Some neighbors that have made every attempt to cooperate. Design Review without prejudice, leaving an op- ter was finally heard, and after been against the project from the “I just wish you could tell us what Monday, March 28, 7:00 pm portunity for the applicant to file some discussion, the Council de- beginning still view the second we can do to build our house, we Lafayette Library & Learning Center again with the City, or continue the cided to continue the matter. story as not compatible with the want to put an end to this process.” in the Arts & Science Discovery matter and allow the applicant to Architect Ken Hertel asked that immediate neighborhood. “I’m Council Member Mike Ander- Center at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. complete the requests of the Coun- the project be reconsidered in light still opposed to this plan – it does- son voted to continue, noting, Check online for agendas, meeting cil – erect story poles and further of a further reduction of the second n’t meet our demands. This “This is a significant revision – notes and announcements clarify their now greatly reduced story addition. The last iteration of eleventh hour submittal only pro- they should come back and get a City of Lafayette: architectural drawings. the design had a 1,084 square foot longs the process,” said William full hearing on this proposal.” Fel- Back in January of this year, on second floor; in the newly revised Wahlander. However, the neigh- low Council Members unani- www.ci.lafayette.ca.us a split vote, three in favor, two plans it is 724 square feet. Be- bors directly to the north recently mously agreed; story poles will be Chamber of Commerce: against – the City Council voted to cause their children are very young, changed their minds and are in erected and the matter will be www.lafayettechamber.org deny an appeal by the homeown- the Polichios’ original plans in- favor of the addition. heard again on March 28. Measuring Interest for Possible Road Repair Fix By Cathy Tyson o, how bad is your road? That is in really poor shape – it costs $60 passing. hands. One fellow described the pro- Swas the question of the evening - $85 a square yard for complete re- Proponents explained that with- posal as a “reasonable compromise Police Report asked of a standing-room-only construction. out additional money, neighborhood to get things done.” An older woman Ungrateful party guests, 2/20/11 crowd of residents, along with a Most of the city’s roads were roads will fail faster than the City can chimed in, “I’m not going to be here Never mind the escalating cost query as to whether or not residents built during the sixties as the popula- fix then, and cost more to repair due in 10 years, the faster the better.” of dips and chips; one local would consider paying a tax to repair tion nearly tripled – from 7,100 in to their horrible condition. The cur- Lafayette’s administrative mother discovered she was out them. 1960 to 20,500 in 1970. It’s no won- rent $15.5 million dollar road repair budget has already been cut over $1,000 cash and $160 in gift “Everybody knows how bad der that forty-year-old asphalt is backlog will escalate over time. $500,000 per year and with only $.08 cards after her son hosted a they are,” said Mayor Carl Anduri. looking less than fresh. To solve the problem Anduri of every property tax dollar goes to party in their home. She proba- “The question is what can we do to Historically, it’s been a challenge proposed a two-prong approach – city coffers, there’s no secret slush bly knows who you are, so ‘fess fix them?” He and the Residential to get the two-thirds “yes” votes re- have the City Council release $3 mil- fund to address the repair issue. up and shame on you. Road Repair Task Force presented an quired for a tax measure to pass. A lion of the $9.5 million from reserves Guy Atwood, along with John overview of the current state of road road and drain tax measure passed in as matching funds, and put a parcel Hall, is spearheading the Task Force, Burglars alarmed, 2/22/11 repair and the background of how it 1995 that raised $13 million with tax of $97 per year for a maximum “I’m encouraged by the enthusiasm When someone kicked in the got that way. 68% of the vote, barely over the 67% of 10 years on the November ballot. and commitment of those that at- wood and glass front door of a Approximately 5,000 Lafayette threshold. That bond money has Funds generated would be used on a tended," said Atwood. “Having said local residence, it set off the residents live on failed roads. “The been spent, mostly on major thor- pay as you go system, keeping it sim- that - with all the competing tax alarm that panicked the bur- older roads get, the faster they dete- oughfares – arterials and collector ple. If the tax is approved, all of the measures and in this economic envi- glar(s). They beat a hasty re- riorate – with a precipitous drop in roads that serve the greatest number roads and associated drains will be ronment, any tax measure requiring treat, scattering baskets, mail quality after the first fifteen years,” of residents – leaving 97 failed brought up to good condition by a 2/3 vote will have its challenges.” and personal effects. Unfortu- said Anduri. A PowerPoint presen- streets, almost exclusively in residen- 2022; at that point only regular main- Atwood and Hall plan to gather nately, that initial contact with tation outlined the situation: Failed tial neighborhoods. Two other meas- tenance will be needed. signatures for a petition, with the the house did $1,000 in damage. roads cost six times more to fix. ures came close, Measure N in 2004 When Mayor Anduri asked, help of supporters, and present the Basic maintenance of a surface seal had 58% approval and Measure C in “Should we go to the voters?” measure to the City Council to put on Double-duty daylight raids, is $14 square yard, but when a road 2007 garnered 63.6%, just shy of Everyone in the room raised their the November ballot. 2/22/11 A discriminating thief staged a mid-morning raid at a Los Arabis Drive home, coming away with antique silver and jewelry worth $8,500. The homeowner suffered an addi- tional $500 damages to the home during the break-in. An- other daylight burglary on the same day netted the thief $8,000- $10,000 in stolen goods and will cost the homeowner an additional $2,500 in repairs and damage.
No parking zone, 2/20/11 A Lafayette resident rightfully complained to police when her car was stolen from the very spot her apartment complex assigned her to park. There were no wit- nesses and are no suspects.
A good car is hard to find, 2/26/11 One Driftwood neigh- bor noticed a wallet (not his) tossed underneath his truck. The wallet was stolen from a nearby car. It was returned to the owner, who canceled serv- ice on her missing credit card. At least one other neighbor’s car was rifled by the same thief. It seems some days you just can’t find good stuff in other people’s cars. Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A3 Troubling Taxi Concerns Addressed Quickly ,FJUI,BU[NBO By Cathy Tyson James Peterson described a .QRZV0RUDJD5HDO(VWDWH lunch buffet set up in the middle of the court and cars receiving maintenance. He suggested the NNDW]PDQ#SDFXQLRQFRP City set up an official taxi stand elsewhere, not in this residential cul de sac. City Council members were sympathetic to their plight and 7JTJUXXX1BD6OJPODPNUP4FBSDI1SPQFSUJFT(FU&NBJM"MFSUT looked for a quick solution – even if temporary, giving them a little time to put something more per- manent in place. OHU City Manager Steven Falk 3HQGLQJ suggested putting up temporary 5HS%X\HU6HO barricades with “No Parking Zone” signage. Sure enough, the Newly installed signs on Happy Val- very next day “No Parking” signs ley Court to deter unwanted taxis. Photo C. Tyson were placed all around the court ’m really uncomfortable and only two taxis were spotted /FX-JTUJOH $PNJOH4PPO 4PME “Icoming home from in the taxi loading zone directly $VFRW'ULYH 5REHUWV&RXUW /DUFK$YHQXH school,” said an Acalanes student in front of the BART station. %5%$6T)W %5%$6T)W %5%$6T)W who returns home in the after- The plan is to create a permit 2IIHUHGDW 2IIHUHGDW 2IIHUHGDW noon to find her Happy Valley parking ordinance for these resi- Court full of taxis with drivers dents and their guests. In order to hanging out, urinating in the do this, a ten-day notice to home- bushes, leering at her and leaving owners is required. The ordi- garbage. “I’m basically a pris- nance will be finalized at the oner after school.” March 14 City Council meeting. Seventeen-year resident Roo- BART has been contacted regard- sevelt Jefferson describes the sit- ing potential designated taxi park- uation as “very adversarial,” ing in its lot; usually on the adding, “We have lost our pri- weekends and evenings there ap- 4PME 4PME 4PME vacy.” pears to be space available. %XFNLQJKDP'ULYH 5LPHU'ULYH /DUFK$YHQXH %5%$6T)W %5%$6T)W %5%$ 6T)W Community Garden Gets 2IIHUHGDW 2IIHUHGDW 2IIHUHGDW Okay By Cathy Tyson 0RUDJD5HVLGHQWVLQFH fter looking for a site for the for a land use permit in order to create 6XFFHVVIXOO\VHOOLQJUHDOHVWDWHIRURYHU\HDUV Apast couple of years, the a community garden and landscape Lafayette Community Garden Group education center for residents. Be- found the perfect location - a mostly cause the Community Garden project ȱȱȱȱ flat, sunny area on Mt. Diablo Boule- meets the goals in Lafayette’s envi- vard across from the Reservoir, in ronmental strategy, the request was front of the EBMUD filter plant, for approved. The group plans to raise a community garden. In partnership money to cover the cost of installing with Sustainable Lafayette they asked a deer-proof fence, raised planting DIABLO FLOORING, INC $250 the City to waive the $5,500 in fees beds, and a greenhouse. Off* *Minimum 1,000 sq. ft. Exp.4-15-11 Earthquake Retrofit Work
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Public Meetings ]A eÉv~vÄ|yy Julie Barlier (925) 588-4300 [email protected] Town Council Realtors www.JulieBarlier.com DRE#01829339 Wednesday, March 23, 7:00 pm Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School, 1010 Camino Pablo Economic Development: “Boots on the Ground” Planning Commission By Sophie Braccini Monday, March 21, 7:30 pm t’s time to put boots on the retail, office and other commer- to its charter, the Committee will Moraga Library, 1500 Saint Marys Rd “Iground,” said Economic cial business; and, 2) to assist in not only assist in drafting a com- Economic Development Team member the revitalization of the Rheem mercial ordinance, it will also rec- Development Survey Design Review Renee Zeimer during the Team’s Valley Shopping Center and adja- ommend strategies for the presentation at the Moraga Town cent commercial areas. revitalization of the Rheem Cen- Moraga residents were recently Monday, March 28, 7:00 pm asked by the Economic Develop- Moraga Library, 1500 Saint Marys Rd Council meeting on March 9. Town Manager Jill Keimach ter. The Team hit the ground running explained the issue during a con- “We would like to conduct a ment Team to complete an Liaison upon its inception last October, versation last February. “In Mor- town-wide visioning process to anonymous, voluntary, online survey; 439 residents partici- Friday, April 8, 8:00 am surveying residents, analyzing aga there is huge uncertainty, discuss the future of the Rheem existing data, and engaging prop- from an applicant’s point of view, Center,” explained Zeimer, “and pated: Fire Station, 1280 Moraga Way 31% were ages 35- 44; 26% were erty owners, businesses and de- about how long the process will to do so we are thinking about Check online for agendas, meeting 45-54; 16% were 55- 64; and 21% velopers. But studying the take for businesses applying for a using Appreciative Inquiry (AI) were 65 or older. 65% of the re- notes and announcements situation is not enough; the Team permit,” she said, “We need to de- techniques.” The basic idea of AI spondents were female, 59% had Town of Moraga: wants an action-oriented body fine the permitted uses that the inventors David Cooperrider and kids living at home. www.moraga.ca.us that will assist it in meeting its community wants and streamline Suresh Srivatsa is to build organ- The survey asked questions re- Chamber of Commerce: goals. The Council thanked team the process for those businesses. izations around what works, garding where residents get their www.moragachamber.org members for their work and ap- Then for other types businesses, rather than trying to fix what information about the Town Moraga Citizens’ Network: proved the creation of an ad-hoc the potential business owners will doesn't. They claim that organiza- (86% of respondents cited the www.moragacitizensnetwork.org public committee. know that they will have to en- tions that try to appreciate what is Lamorinda Weekly), and included The Revenue Enhancement gage in a lengthier permit process best in themselves will identify open-ended questions about the Committee created the Economic that includes public comment and more and more of what is good, retail experience and business cli- Development Team at the end of review.” while those that focus on dys- mate in Moraga. More varied 2009. It is composed of three Defining these permitted uses functions will reproduce the prob- restaurants, a sports bar, a Trader volunteers who give the Town and drafting that ordinance is one lems. Joe’s (or other produce market), about 10 hours of work a week to of the Team’s goals. “We ask the The Council approved the and a bookstore were among the promote the economic health of Town Council to approve the cre- creation of the Action Committee types of retail suggested. As far Police Report the community. In addition to ation of an Economic Develop- and decided it may have as many as revitalization is concerned, Theft at T.J. Maxx, 3/06/11 Offi- Zeimer, the Team includes Mary ment Action Committee,” said as 13 members, including up to many residents highlighted the cers discovered that unknown sus- Coe and Rich Larsen. They were Zeimer, “this new committee will four members of the community need for a vision, a business- pects entered the closed clothes given two additional goals for assist in outreach to and inclusion at large. The Council will be rep- friendly atmosphere in town, and store without leaving any signs of 2011: 1) to create a Town-wide of property owners, existing and resented on the Committee, more attractive, student-friendly force, turned off the alarm and dis- commercial ordinance that prospective businesses, and the which will meet monthly, by Ken stores. abled security monitoring equip- streamlines community supported community at-large.” According Chew and Howard Harpham. ment, then entered a locked safe to remove cash. Police gathered physical evidence and are pursuing Women’s History Month an investigation. By Sophie Braccini arch is ‘Women’s His- our country.” De Priester added years’” added De Priester, a for- Women’s History Month Very suspicious mail, 3/05/11 A tory Month;’ cele- that the popularity of women’s mer mayor of Moraga and co- comes on the heels of Interna- 91-year-old Donald Drive resident “M brated each year, worldwide, it history celebrations continues to archivist of the Moraga Historical tional Women’s Day (March 8), contacted police to alert them to a highlights the contributions of spread across the world, as more Society. “I would suggest that the which was celebrated for the letter she received stating she had women to society,” Margaret De people become aware of the con- Council declare the month of 100th time this year. That com- won the “North America Con- Priester told the Moraga Town tributions of women and girls. March ‘Women’s History Month’ memoration was born in Eastern sumer Promotion Draw” and just Council. “It began in Sonoma “The White House, on the in Moraga as well.” Europe and Russia at the begin- had to send in a check for $950 to County when, in 1979, the first day of this 2011 Women’s “I thought that (De Priester’s) ning of the 20th century and be- cover the state tax on her $9,851.80 grand prize. The smart County Commission on the Sta- History Month, released a report proposal was wonderful and came more popular in the west senior correctly identified the letter tus of Women initiated a from the Progress Commission, timely!” said Mayor Karen Men- when the United Nations invited as a scam that originated in ‘Women’s History Week’, with which it calls ‘the first compre- donca after the meeting. “We are member states to proclaim March Canada. Local banks and post of- class projects that focused on the hensive federal report on the sta- preparing a proclamation to be read 8 a day for Women's Rights and fices were advised to be on the accomplishments of women in tus of women in almost 50 at our next Town Council Meeting.” International Peace. lookout for additional elderly con- test winners. MORAGA Fight over chore completion, DISCOUNT RATES 3/05/11 A mother and her 12-year- PARKS & RECREATION without discount service. old son were arguing about chores, 925-888-7045 • www.moraga.ca.us It’s no accident more people trust State Farm. no physical contact was made. Po- Mike Rosa, Agent Time to sign up for the following: Insurance Lic. #: 0F45583 lice arrived to break it up and both 1042 Country Club Drive www.mikeisthere.com parties agreed to avoid each other Youth Splashball – April 17-June 26 Bus: 925-376-2244 g for the duration of the afternoon. Some things never change, but Moraga Triathlon – www.moragatri.com which party called the cops? Youth Spring Break camps – April 4-8 P040036 02/04P040036 State02/04 Farm StateMutual Farm Automobile Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Insurance (Not Company in NJ), (Not Bloomington, in NJ), Bloomington, IL IL Loud exercise equipment, 3/03/11 Cops responded to a complaint about loud noise generated from exercise equipment coming from LeapFrog Plumbing an Ascot Drive Apartment. Appar- Bay Area ently the complaining neighbor BAD Going green takes more had spoken with the work out fans, INC. Drainage, Inc. but the excessive noise continued. than luck – LeapFrog Oddly enough when police helps you make knocked on the door of the exer- Have You Checked Your good decisions cise aficionados – they weren’t that make good strong enough to answer the door. Crawlspace Lately? green sense. If you gotta Attempted booze theft, 3/02/11 Head Frog Mo Williams go… go green! 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The subject 925•377•9209 was arrested for being under the in- 925•377•9209 fluence of a controlled substance visit our website (925) and possession of paraphernalia 377-6600 CA Lic and his car was towed. www.bayareadrainage.com 929641 www.LeapFrogPlumbing.com Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A5 ADULT DAY PROGRAM This Year ~ Pamela Halloran Providing activities for adults with Alzheimer’s or Think of Pamela Broker Associate other related dementias and respite for caregivers. with all your Village Associates real estate needs - (925) 323-4100 Put her 20+ years of [email protected] www.PamelaHalloran.com experience to work
433 Moraga Way Orinda for you! 925-254-3465 www.holyshepherd.org License #00936191 Comments Still Accepted on Hetfield Development By Sophie Braccini he Moraga Planning Commis- the properties bordering the proposed Tsion unanimously agreed to development came in large number, keep the comment period for the Het- to a March 7 hearing, to express their field Development Environmental point of views. Possible soil instabil- Impact Report (EIR) open until ity (faults and slides) and visual im- March 22nd. Comments can be made pacts remain at the center of their in writing to the Town. The EIR is concerns; it will be months before available on the Town’s website, there is an official response to ques- www.moraga.ca.us. The owners of tions and a ruling. Rancho Laguna Settlement By Sophie Braccini
Rheem Ridge above Rheem Blvd. Photo Andy Scheck reserve Lamorinda Open homes will be built, but it guaran- PSpace will not sue the Town tees that the intermittent creek of Moraga and the developer over that runs through part of the prop- the Rancho Laguna Development erty will not be filled by a valley project, which will bring 27 new buttress under the current ap- homes to the land adjacent to proval. A new Environmental Rheem Boulevard and along the Impact Report would have to be Rheem Ridge. A settlement was conducted if a buttress (or fill of reached on March 9 that all par- the creek) were to be proposed, ties consider a compromise. again, to stabilize Rheem Boule- Much of the discussion vard. hinged on the interpretation of the “What we’re seeing is more General Plan’s wording: “Protect and more of Moraga’s open space ridgelines from development.” being chipped away and it’s very To Council Member Dave Trotter, distressing,” added Jones, “this those words mean no develop- settlement will protect the creek ment at all; while for Mayor and that’s positive, but we are still Karen Mendonca they mean min- concerned to see homes built on imize the impact of development. ridge lines in Moraga.” Her perspective won the majority "I am very pleased that all of Council member votes. parties were able to reach agree- The settlement does not ment without litigation," said change anything about where the Mendonca. Please submit Letters and Opinions: [email protected]
Wilder is coming to life.
It won’t be long before the porch lights will be lit. The patios and terraces will be filled with friendly conversation. The spectacular valley views will be taken in for the very first time.
Cal Shakes And the neighborhood will begin to show the first signs of new life.
Welcome to Wilder. Where the casual style is pure Orinda. The schools are topnotch. The weather is nearly perfect. The city is just 25 minutes away via BART. And the opportunity is truly one of a kind.
2 Wilder Road, Orinda, CA 94563 Contact Gerry Bakalian or Robin Rogers for a tour of homes and sites now available. 925-254-9900 orindawilder.com Developer/seller reserves the right to change features and amenities without notice. Pricing and availability subject to change. Page: A6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Certified Green Builder 1934 Leavenworth, San Francisco Call for details McCartt Construction Inc. Custom Homes & Renovations
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Orinda’s Vision, Part II—General Plan Update By Andrea A. Firth s the next best step in the devel- manuel Ursu the projected lifecycle sion has started,” he said, referring One major stumbling block for Aopment of a cohesive vision for of the General Plan, which provides a back to two widely-attended public cash-strapped Orinda is the price tag Orinda’s downtown districts, Chris comprehensive guide and direction workshops held in November and of a General Plan update. A complete Benyon, a community planning and for the physical development of the December to discuss residents’ vi- update will cost $500,000 to land-use consultant from Berkeley- city, is about 20 years. The State has sions for Orinda’s downtown districts. $650,000, Ursu told the Council. At Civic News based MIG, Inc., recommended that encouraged the City to re-evaluate the He encouraged the Council to move this juncture the Council made no im- Orinda’s City Council undertake a scope and content of its General Plan forward with this next step in the mediate plans for a General Plan up- Public Meetings General Plan update with a focus on to ensure it remains valid and consis- planning process to build on the mo- date, opting to gather additional downtown. tent with the goals and future vision mentum in the community. “There’s community input and to discuss a City Council “The City’s General Plan is com- of the community, according to Ursu. a lot of common ground and common phased-approach to addressing the Tuesday, April 12, 7:00 pm ing to, what the State would consider, Without keeping the Plan current, the elements,” said Beynon, but he also General Plan needs. “We don’t want Auditorium, Orinda Library, the end of its term,” said Beynon. City could run the risk that the Plan is acknowledged that there are some to the Task Force recommendations 26 Orinda Way Orinda’s current, and only, General challenged in court. contentious aspects to residents’ vi- to be lost in the process, but we will Planning Commission Plan was adopted 23 years ago shortly According to Beynon the time is sions for Orinda’s downtown, such as look at the recommendations through after the City was incorporated. Ac- ripe for an update. “There’s a nice building height, density, and retail the lens of the community input,” said Tuesday, March 29, 7:00 pm cording to Planning Director Em- tone in the community. The discus- choices. Ursu in a follow-up interview. Auditorium, Orinda Library, 26 Orinda Way Traffic Safety Advisory Orinda's Finest Recognized Committee (TSAC) rinda Police Officer Danny OVargas and Reserve Officer Monday, March 21, 7:00 pm Derek Brown were recently rec- Community Room, City Hall, ognized as Officers of the Year. 22 Orinda Way Pictured (L to R in front) Sargent Check online for agendas, meeting M. Djajakusuma, Reserve Officer notes and announcements Derek Brown, Officer Jess Gogo, City of Orinda: Officer Chad Pryor (new officer), www.cityoforinda.org Chief Jeff Jennings, Officer Tricia Chamber of Commerce: Richardson (new officer), Officer www.orindachamber.org Ron Westhorpe )K-9 Officer of The Orinda Association: the Year 2010), Danny Vargas, and Officer Al Agadier. In the www.orindaassociation.org back row from L to R are Mayor Victoria Smith and Council mem- bers Sue Severson, Steve Glazer, and Dean Orr.
Photo Kimberly Westhorpe. Police Report Car burglary, 3/05/11 Two Farmers’ Market Season Extended Thank you for young men, aged 19 and 20, Orinda’s Farmers’ Market will recycling this paper. were apprehended for allegedly open a month earlier this year It is printed on at having just broken into a car in kicking off the season on Sat- least 50% recycled the West parking lot of the urday April 2nd. The market, material and should Orinda BART station. No de- which has been held on be recycled again. scription of items stolen or juicy Orinda Way across from the details of the would-be thieves’ Community Park each Satur- capture was available. day from May through No- vember for the past 13 years, Car burglary, 3/03/11 Sometime will extend its season into during the night, the window of March in 2012. A. Firth a Honda Pilot parked in a Hart- ford Road driveway was smashed and golf clubs that had been inside the vehicle were RESTORE taken. Estimated value $1300 for the clubs and $200 for the DON’T REPLACE YOUR OUTDOOR FURNITURE Nike golf bag.
Car burglary, 3/03/11 The back window of a car parked on Lic #855456 The Haddon Family, Orinda Residents, Owners/Operators Meadow Lane was smashed and a black purse with files and Do business some additional paperwork was with a neighbor. stolen from the vehicle. Hand- bag had an estimated value of $100, approximately $200 to re- BEFORE AFTER pair the window. Environmentally friendly power coating process Car burglary, 3/03/11 Interest- New vinyl re-strapping or sling replacement ing – same night, same modus operandi. A car parked on We can powder coat almost anything Moraga Via had its window Wrought iron furniture and fences smashed and several items Art, architectural structures, automotive parts and more Your comfort is our #1 priority were stolen. No suspects or Pick up and delivery available Haddon Heating & Cooling specializes in System Inspection leads at this time. Golf clubs • residential furnaces • heaters • air conditioners • ductwork valued at $3500, a golf training • repairs • upgrades • maintenance and service. aide valued at $500, along with 1090 SHARY CIRCLE STE C $79 CONCORD. CA 94518 FREE ESTIMATES • FAST SERVICE Furnace/ A/C a golf GPS system $400 and a (925) 682-4247 Check up* $300 camera were taken. 925-521-1380 *service includes a free standard WWW.PATIOCHAIRCARE.COM sized 1” disposable filter. Monday-Friday 7am - 5pm (closed for lunch) We do offer a variety of pleated Car burglary, 3/03/11 Two for A division of West Coast Specialty Inc. and washable filters. www.haddonheatingcooling.com Exp. April 15, 2011 the price of one – two student’s cars parked in the Miramonte High School parking lot were broken into on the same night – CANETTI’S BOOKSHOP a car stereo, a laptop and an USED & NEW BOOKS iPod were taken. ALWAYS DISCOUNTED OPEN EVERY DAY 10:00am - 6:00pm
A source very familiar with the 925.258.9076 Orinda Police Department ad- 39 MORAGA WAY vises, “If you have valuables and ORINDA 94563 leave them in plain sight in your (DOWNTOWN AT THE CROSSROADS) car, be prepared for them to be “ORINDA’S HIDDEN GEM” stolen.” Better safe than sorry. --DIABLO MAGAZINE Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A7 Lafayette Starter Home! The X5 is in! New Listing 2 BR, 2 BA close to Acalanes High Call Michael at Private 4/10 acre creek-side location 925-998-2150 Offered at $549,000 More at www.3235CaminoDiablo.com For current local Market Trends data, visit: www.LamorindaValues.com For a complimentary market analysis of your specific property, contact Frank today! Frank Woodward Michael Heller Specializing in BMW Concord 925.253.4603 [email protected] [email protected] Lamorinda Fine = = BMW Concord | 1967 Market ST. | Concord Homes & Property Orinda Lafayette Moraga Visual Arts Contest Winners 7KDQN\RXIRU\HDUVRIFOHDQ ZZZWRWDOFOHDQEL] 7RWDO&OHDQ )RU\RXUKRPH 7RWDO&OHDQ )RU\RXUKRPH
MARA CONSTRUCTION Photo JC Greenthal ver 140 high school students participated in Place, Photography); Sarah Manley (Best in Show); LOCATED IN LAMORINDA AREA Othe Orinda Arts Council's eighth annual Vi- and Ryan Tucci (Honorable Mention, 3D). Art from sual Arts Contest. Pictured (L to R) Krista Waugh all the young artists is on display at the Orinda Li- 20th YEAR IN BUSINESS (Honorable Mention, 2D Art); Mia Taapken (1st brary Gallery through March. Orinda’s Sign without a Home By Andrea A. Firth he subject of the historic bers seemed amenable to the new be disconnect to place [the sign] TOrinda sign was back before color choice for the sign, three of the where the neighborhood does not the City Council at its March 1st four present were sufficiently welcome it,” added Council Member meeting—this time purportedly to swayed by the neighbors’ protests to Sue Severson. Mayor Victoria Smith determine the best color for the revisit the sign’s location. Noting disagreed and suggested that the lo- green sign, which is parked in the that he was not on the Council when cation and new color be tried for a triangular garden at the intersection the sign’s new location was origi- period of time. Ultimately, the Coun- SPECIALIZING IN ALL PHASES OF HOME CONSTRUCTION of Orinda Way and Camino So- nally approved, Council Member cil voted three to one, with Smith - New Custom Builds - Foundations: brante. Following review by the Dean Orr stated that the sign is partly dissenting, to postpone any decision - Additions - Re-Leveling Public Works Aesthetic Review hidden by landscaping and posi- regarding the sign color and to bring - Structure Repair Committee, the Historic Landmarks tioned awkwardly. Council Member the issue of the sign’s location back - Custom Kitchens - Drainage Systems - Custom Baths Committee, and local garden clubs, Steve Glazer acknowledged that the for further discussion. - Retaining Wall the groups had collectively agreed neighbors in the area seem well in- It’s not appropriately placed… - Doors/Windows to recommend the slightly darker formed about the sign issue and that Nobody wants this sign.” - Tile/Pavers - Electrical/Custom Wiring ‘Charleston green’ as the best color there may not have been full com- “Every neighbor who lives near View projects and style ideas at our updated Website. to paint the 75 year-old sign, which munity notification at the time the lo- that sign does not want the sign,” previously adorned a small real es- cation was chosen. “There seems to said Andrea Restrepo 510-385-8251 • [email protected] tate office that was located on the WWW.MARACONSTRUCTION.COM same plot of land from the mid- License # 586512 1930’s until the late 1960’s. However it was the location of the sign, not its color that concerned several residents who live along The Real Estate Firm People Trust Camino Sobrante and on the sur- rounding streets. “None of us signed up for a gigantic, round, arched, green Orinda sign at the en- trance to our neighborhood,” said Nancy McCaulou-Bernatz, a resi- LAFAYETTE $1,225,000 LAFAYETTE $1,425,000 5/3. Great traditional home on a big lot, cul- 4BR 3.5BA exquisitely remodeled cus- dent of Camino Sobrante who grew de-sac, convenient location. tom. Lushly landscaped acre. 1 of a kind! up in Orinda. “It’s not appropriately Elena Hood 925-253-4600 Previews International Jeannette Bettencourt 925-253-4600 placed…Nobody wants this sign,” Luxury and Estate Properties she added. The City Council approved the placement of the sign in the land- s Prreviews International has a unique and exclusive scaped triangle across from Orinda marketing platffooormrm to shos wcase these extraordinary Motors in November of last year properties. pending approval of the color and s Prreviews International handles an average of mounting mechanism. Subse- ORINDA $1,695,000 $76.7 million in luxury home sales every daayy*. MORAGA $1,850,000 quently, a petition signed by 139 4BR 4.5BA Mediterranean style. Attention s In 2010,, Previews International listed and sold the most 3/3.5 Gorgeous custom estate on a 1.16 acre Orinda residents requesting that the to detail. Hand made exterior features expensive home in the U.S., listed at $82 million. private lot with stunning setting. sign be moved elsewhere was sub- Alti Schmitt 925-253-4600 Elena Hood 925-253-4600 mitted to the City in December. For a private consultation,, call Coldwell Banker Orinda “The taxpayers have signed a peti- or to find an exclusive property in Lamorinda look ffoor tion. They’ve signed on the dotted the Previews International insignia. line,” said Andrea Restrepo, “Every neighbor near that sign does not want the sign.” “I hope we don’t have to go back and discuss location any LAFAYETTE $1,250,000 ORINDA $1,425,000 longer,” said Carl Weber, Chair of 4/3. Sanders Ranch home on a beautiful Grand Opening! 5BR 3BA. Prestigious Orinda the City’s Historic Landmarks 1.01 acre lot. Fantastic for entertaining. County Club. New Construction with views. Lana Fitzpatrick 925-253-4600 **Data based on closed and recorded transaction sides of homes sold for one million dollars or more as Brown/Camras 925-253-4600 Committee (HLC), noting that the reported by affiliates in the U.S.. COLDWELL BANKER® franchise system for the calendar year 2009. $USD. sign had been situated at the same spot in a much more prominent lo- cation, on top of a building, for 25 years. “I thought we were here to talk about the color, not the location again,” concurred longtime resident and HLC member Bobbie Landers. ORINDA $2,250,000 LAFAYETTE $1,495,000 LAFAYETTE , $2,595,000 ORINDA $2,300,000 “For 25 years, I’ve been trying to 4/4. Fabulous Orinda Oasis. Handsome & 4BR/4BA. Spacious updated BV home. Wine 5/4.5. New Construction! For info/pics 5/6. Old world elegance, new world con- find a location for that sign which spacious single level home, large private lot. cellar, sauna, game/media rm, waterfall & more. visit TheBeaubelleGroup.com struction with over 5,000 sq.ft of amenities. is beloved,” said Landers, adding Frank Woodward 925-253-6300 Susan Schlicher 925-253-4600 The Beaubelle Group 925-253-6300 Kim McAtee 925-253-4600 that she is happy to drive by the sign each day as she travels to and from her home in the Country Club -ORAGA 7AY \ /RINDA \ neighborhood. “To have the sign 4HEATRE 3QUARE 3UITE \ /RINDA \ RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE publicly displayed now is a dream californiamoves.com come true,” she said. ©2009 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.g All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker®g is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.qppy An Equal Opportunity Although all the Council mem- Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office Is Owned And Operated by NRT LLC. DRE License # 00313415 Page: A8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Lic# 681593 General Contractor 925.631.1055 www.MVCRemodeling.com Specializing in kitchens & bathrooms. ASSOCIATES All forms residential remodel/repair. REAL ESTATE 93 Moraga Way, Orinda “A little bit of myself goes into every job.” Michael VerBrugge, Owner, Community Service Moraga Resident Clean | Courteous | Conscientious We are pleased to make space available whenever possible for some of Lamorinda’s dedicated community service organizations to submit On-time | Trustworthy | Local References news and information about their activities. Submissions can be sent to [email protected] with the subject header Full design team resources available In Service to the Community. C abinet M odifications Moraga Garden Club Celebrates Arbor Day Submitted by Billie Cummings With over 25 years fulfilling custom needs, we can alter or modify these at the Holy Trinity Cultural most cabinetry, while still utilizing your existing cabinetry for: Center on School Street. The Club
• Large TVs/ Refrigerators and appliances Licensed Cabinet & plants a tree somewhere in Moraga • Recycle Bins and shelf pullouts Millwork Contractor every year at this time. Last year, • Cabinet alterations/repairs #598395 the club planted a Crape Myrtle tree Thinking about home, office, entertainment, custom cabinetry, shelving, also at the Center. California cele- crown mouldings, baseboards, new doors or mantels? We can help there, too! brates Arbor Day on March 7, while Paul Kephart Master Craftsman the nation celebrates it on the last 925.827.1093 www.TheCabinetMd.com Friday in April. In addition to plant- ing trees, the Moraga Garden Club maintains the flag pole area at the DRIVEWAY NEED REPAIRING? Commons as well as at the area by the green gate and the entrance to Call the the parking lot. It also takes care of the plants in the triangle area of Resurfacing Experts! Ken Murakami and Sue Hanes Photo Billie Cummings Rheem, and the urn area at the li- n honor of Arbor Day, Moraga that the club ordered from Ken Mu- brary as well as provides a new IGarden Club member Sue Hanes rakami, owner of the Moraga Gar- flower arrangement for the inside of picks up two Italian Cypress trees den Center. The club will plant the library every month. Navy League Council Installs Leadership Submitted by Bill Sharkey III ames Harbuck of Moraga was Coast Guard’s Pacific Area. The Martinez, VP Communications; Jinstalled as President of the Con- Admiral cited the outstanding sup- Lois Terrell, Rio Vista, Secretary; tra Costa Council of the Navy port of the Navy League for the na- Myriam Clark, Moraga, Correspon- Driveways League of the United States at its an- tion’s sea services and the ding Secretary, and Steve Cruik- Private Roads nual installation held at the Lafayette importance of providing such sup- shank, Pleasant Hill, Treasurer. Tennis & Sports Courts Veterans Memorial Building. The port to the men and women serving The Council will be honoring Parking Lots Navy League members are “Civil- in today’s military. the Coast Guard, Navy and Marine Seal Coating ians Supporting the Sea Services”. Officers to serve for 2011 in- Corps later this year and will coor- ADA Ramps & Stalls Guest speaker at the dinner clude: Bill Kinsey, Clayton, 1st dinate the 70th Pearl Harbor Re- meeting was Rear Admiral Timothy Vice President; Lorraine Hughey, membrance with local veterans S. Sullivan, USCG, Commander of Walnut Creek, VP for Youth Affairs; groups. Events will be publicized RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL the Forces Readiness Command Jack and Gynithe LaSalle, Danville, and members of the public are en- LUCAS PAVING, INC. and Deputy Commander of the VP Membership; Bill Sharkey III, couraged to attend.
Lic # 195560 925-283-8027 QUALITY • INTEGRITY • EXPERT WORKMANSHIP Girl Scout Garage Sale to Benefit Troop and World Wildlife Fund Submitted by Ava Tajbakhsh (member of Troop 30734)
Lamorinda Film Contest How much do you love YOUR city?
Create a 3 minute maximum video, power-point, slide show or film that conveys how much you love living, working or playing in YOUR city. Submissions MUST be on a DVD and WILL NOT be accepted without a signed release form! Each city’s winning submission will be shown during the Tri-Chamber mixer on the BIG SCREEN at THE NEW RHEEM THEATRE Some of the girls of Troop 30734 work on plans for their garage sale. Photo Jennifer Gerst and will receive $100. DEADLINE for Submissions: he Cadette Girl Scouts of hopes to raise money to offset the our planet, the World Wildlife Fund April 15 at 12 Noon!! TMoraga Troop 30734 (7th cost of some of their activities as is trying to improve our environ- Orinda Submissions: Moraga Submissions: Lafayette Submissions grade) have been working hard for they work towards earning their Sil- mental world. Any items that re- Send to Send to Send to the last two months planning their ver Award, but they also voted to main unsold at the end of the day Candy Kattenburg Moraga Chamber/ Karen Rose first-ever Troop Garage Sale to be donate 15% of the proceeds to the will be delivered to the Goodwill in P.O. Box 26, UPS Store, 1480 Moraga 100 Lafayette Circle # 103 held in late March. As Cadettes, the World Wildlife Fund. The World Moraga. Items to be sold at the Lafayette, CA. 94549 Orinda Way, Rd. Suite I #254, girls have assumed full responsibil- Wildlife Fund is an organization garage sale include books, toys, and Orinda, CA. 94563 Moraga, CA. 94556 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] (925) 284-7404 ity for the sale, from the early plan- that does many things, such as pro- small appliances (no clothing). You (925) 254-3909 (925) 216-8904 ning stages to scheduling, tecting endangered species, educat- never know what treasures you advertising, inventory and pricing; ing communities, working with might find at Troop 30734’s Garage Read and sign the release form for contest rules before you they even decided to hold a bake- government, and protecting ecosys- Sale, which will run from 9:00 a.m. create your masterpiece. Release forms are available online at sale at the same time (cupcakes, tems. Just as Girl Scouts are work- to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 26, www.lafayettechamber.org. Acceptable formats: Playable DVD, cookies, brownies, etc.) The troop ing to improve the social aspects of at 881 Camino Ricardo in Moraga. DVD with menu, .mov burned onto a DVD.
UPHOLSTERY SPECIALIST “You are wonderful! I will definitely call you again. FREE ½ Hour I will refer you friends, for sure.” Megan-Moraga REFINISHING AND RESTORATION Computer Service Call* 100% No-Risk Guarantee schedule your • Slipcovers • Pillows • Window Cushions We want our clients to be super-pleased - in fact, absolutely delighted- • Custom Upholstery • Design Consulting with everything we do. So all of our work comes with our ironclad, appointment! Marine - Commercial - Residential risk-free guarantee. What does that mean? Simply this: If you aren't (925) 283-5666 Pickup & Delivery Available • Free Estimates By Phone happy with our work within 14 days, we'll do it over for free. If you're still not thrilled you can have your money back. No questions asked. No hard feelings. It's your choice. We stand behind our work 100%. Mon.-Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-2 Nerd4Rent.com Family Owned And Operated For Over 55 yrs. (925) 962-0579 3418 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette 990 Moraga Road, Ste B, Lafayette *Offer applies to new Lamorinda clients only. Exp. 4/15/11, w/ coupon only. Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B1
Share your thoughts with our community! Opinions in Letters to the Editor are the express views of the writers and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. All published letters will include the writer's name and town (please give us your phone number for verification purposes only), and should be 350 words or less. email: [email protected]; Regular mail: Lamorinda Weekly, P.O.Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570 Editor: old “Moraga and Orinda Zones” have been The alleged inequity in the contributions of abandoned, service areas are essentially the Moraga and Orinda taxpayers to the Moraga- same as they were before MOFD was formed Orinda Fire District has come up again in re- in 1997 which means that the 700 Orinda cent letters to this publication. That claim is homes that used to be in the old Moraga Fire based on faulty information and has already District are still “first due” out of Moraga sta- been thoroughly discredited. tions. The significant exception is that the Every homeowner in California pays the same homes between Ivy Drive and Glorietta now A welcoming, spirited community of members 1% of assessed valuation in property tax. Con- get ambulance service out of Moraga, and the tra Costa County distributes the revenue in var- rest of Orinda out of downtown Orinda, instead Top-ranked swim team ious ways, but the proportion allocated to of from AMR out of Walnut Creek. MOFD from Orinda is identical to what was Since 700 Orinda homes are “first due” for all Learn-to-swim and adult Masters swim programs provided to Con Fire prior to our merger with emergencies out of Moraga, and an additional the Moraga FD. 800 Orinda homes are “first due” for the Mor- 11 tennis courts The area served by MOFD is not defined by aga-based ambulance, it makes sense that any the borders of Orinda and Moraga. The Orinda calculations attempting to determine whether service zone includes Highway 24, the BART or not an area is paying its fair share should fac- Private and group tennis lessons station and the Caldecott Tunnel, plus some ad- tor in that information. Our city boundaries are ditional unincorporated land previously cov- irrelevant to the operations of MOFD and ir- USTA teams and regional leagues ered by Con Fire. The Moraga service zone relevant in any calculations to determine the includes not only the Town of Moraga, but also fair share of costs. Legendland Summer Day Camp 700 Orinda homes (even more for ambulance The claim that Orinda is subsidizing Moraga for kids ages 45 and older service) plus the village of Canyon. In any has been investigated by several agencies and case, MOFD is an integrated service. All but committees and proven incorrect. We do not the smallest events require ambulances, en- need another task force to study this issue. It gines and other equipment coming from mul- is time to move on and find practical ways of tiple fire stations. generating revenue to re-build our roads and prospective member A separate question concerned the inade- infrastructure. quate flow from many fire hydrants. A 1996 Ellen Dale information session engineering study indicated that 29% of the Orinda Sunday, March 27, 4:00 p.m. hydrants did not meet the 1000 gpm stan- dard. A total upgrade would have cost $50 Editor: SHSTC Clubhouse million (2002 dollars) but 2/3 of the pipes The City of Lafayette wants to impose another could have been fixed for $12 million. Three parcel tax, but they have failed to prove that subsequent bond measures failed to achieve they are competent enough to be trusted with We invite you to learn more about our swim and tennis the required 2/3 approval of the citizens. new revenue. programs and summer day camp. Please join us for an (MOFD now deploys more water tenders to On March 1st, Mayor Carl Anduri and several mitigate the problem.) other city officials met with local citizenry and informal presentation and question and answer session It should be noted that EBMUD is the sole attempted to justify a new “temporary” parcel led by our members and exceptional coaches and pros. owner of these pipes, and all upgrades are tax by telling us that they don’t have enough under their control. EBMUD will repair bro- money to repair the roads. ken pipes, but only up to its own “design stan- The truth of the matter is that Lafayette had dard” of 500 gpm. Any further improvement money (because of the 1995 bond measure) to is subject to the Rockridge Formula, which do the job. Unfortunately, they weren’t com- now is the ideal time to join shifts most of the charge to the requesting petent to manage the project and the money ran Apply for membership between agency, despite an actual cost difference of only out before the work was completed. a few cents per foot. Now they want us to pay again. Roughly 25% March 1–April 15 and save MOFD enjoys an excellent reputation, not only of the citizens in Lafayette live on roads which locally but throughout California and beyond. should have been repaired more than ten years It is a shame that some of our citizens do not ago. Frankly, I don’t believe they can do any $1,500 off recognize their good fortune. better this time. Gene Gottfried When our government fails, it needs to be pun- our $2,500 Membership Initiation Fee. Orinda ished for that failure. Parents know that when you reward bad behavior, you get more bad be- Editor: havior. Now is not the time to reward the city’s I cannot help but notice the tension of Moraga bad behavior, it is time to punish that bad be- Safeway's employees when their present man- havior. In this case, the punishment should be ager, Brett Turner is on the scene. Disturbingly, a reduction in revenue for Lafayette. Passing www.sleepyhollowlegends.net I have overheard this manager berate, humiliate a parcel tax to raise revenues is the exact op- and demean employee's on numerous occa- posite of the right thing to do, because it re- &Hjccnh^YZAVcZDg^cYV!86.)*+( sions. Apparently this type of "management" wards the city. is condoned by Safeway Corporation, and it I explained at the March 1st meeting that the .'*"'*)"&&'+ has created an ongoing and hostile environ- concept of a “Revenue Shortfall” is a fiction. ment for employee's in the Moraga Safeway. It’s a fancy way of saying they want to spend [email protected] As a regular shopper there, employee's I have money they don’t have. The alleged “Funding interacted with and become familiar with over Gap” for repairing the roads exists only be- a number of years are quite visibly "on guard" cause they don’t want to spend existing city and no longer in a "normal" state of being. I be- funds to repair all the roads. lieve this would be considered "oppression", as I was told that the city might have to close I have observed the manager treat the em- down if the budget were cut any more than it ployee's like they are his personal "subjects". already has been recently. I have no sympathy Has anyone else noticed or sensed this "devo- for them. If they close, they will experience lution" in the employees’ demeanors? what millions of other Californians are already Marie Slocum suffering though, and it would be wonderfully Moraga refreshing for City Hall to experience an eco- nomic reality check. Editor: Kurt Schultz I read that the Moraga-Orinda Fire District Lafayette (MOFD) has voted to implement a new "cost recovery" fee for attending to car crashes. It is Editor: not enough that we pay $17.5 million per year As a lifelong resident of Lafayette I am writing ($1,500 per household) in taxes for the insur- to urge community support for Measure B, the ance of having emergency services, now the upcoming Lafayette Elementary School parcel lucky 125 people who get into a car crash each tax measure. I am a fortunate beneficiary of a year and actually need help have to pay for the K-12 Lafayette education, attending Mon- service on top of the $1,500 insurance they pay. tecito, Springhill, Stanley and Acalanes High It is not like the district has to hire new people Schools. My husband and I purchased our to provide this service as each of their 7 units, home in Lafayette based on the excellence of on average, only responds to two incidents per the school district that would later provide an day. But they do need the money to pay back outstanding education for our three children. the ill conceived $70 million of unfunded em- As a lifelong educator I value and appreciate ployee benefits that they have granted over the what our schools provide for Lafayette’s stu- past 14 years. dents in preparing them for the future. It is now Steve Cohn my privilege and obligation to provide for the Orinda education of the current students of Lafayette. The State budget crisis has continued to erode Editor: financial support for our schools. It is now up Recent letters to the editor have claimed that to our community to provide temporary emer- Orindans pay more than their fair share of the gency funding to preserve core academic pro- costs of providing fire and emergency medical grams, excellent teachers, and other classroom services. Some calculate the taxes paid by support. 100% of Measure B funds will go di- Orinda and compare them to those paid by rectly into classroom instruction in Lafayette Moraga. Others divide those taxes by the num- schools. Mandatory audits will ensure proper ber of fire fighters in each city. BOTH ARE expenditure of the funds. The tax will sunset INCORRECT BECAUSE THEIR CALCU- in four years. It seems a small price to pay to LATIONS ARE BASED ON CITY BOUND- continue the tradition of academic excellence ARIES. that I and many others have benefitted from. The operations of every fire district in America Please join me in voting YES on Measure B. are based on “service areas,” AKA “station and Excellent schools benefit our entire commu- apparatus response areas.” In other words, fire nity! districts are divided into service areas based on Mary McCosker RESPONSE TIME, NOT CITY BOUND- Lafayette ARIES. While the old fire district boundaries and the ... Letters continue on next page Page: B2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011
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Laguna project provides a sobering sided by Karen Mendonça with her held, it is projected that the Lafayette lesson on the need to revise the Mor- first vote on Rancho Laguna. Karen School District could face a staggering aga General Plan. Despite the pres- campaigned vigorously for Measure K 3.2 million dollar structural deficit for ... continued ence of clear language in the current to preserve and support Moraga's the 2011-2012 school year. Editor: newspaper regarding the decision by General Plan to protect ridgelines, two Open Spaces but what did she do in This loss of money means cuts to es- The Lafayette schools are a gem the town council to approve the Ran- council members, Karen Mendonca the voting booth? When I have men- tablished and valuable programs such within our community, providing cho Laguna project. and Howard Harpham, chose to ignore tioned to open space supporters who as music and science. It equates to de- Lafayette’s children with the strong The fact that the council made the de- this language and voted to approve a have packed the council and planning creases in instructional days, reducing enriched education they deserve. cision even when they knew that they project with ridgeline development. commission meetings about running, the number of teachers and counselors, What’s more, that education is pro- had the legal justification to say NO to Only Councilmember Dave Trotter everyone says no. OK, so then what and the list goes on. That is not the ed- vided very economically – we spend the plan is baffling. They, more than spoke directly about the General Plan happens? It is time for all the people ucation I want for my children. That half of what comparable communities the average citizen of Moraga, knew language to protect ridgelines and the who attend council meetings in sup- is not why my husband and I moved in other states spend to achieve similar of the consequences: 180,000 cubic clear intent of the Town Council in port of Moraga Open Space to think here. results. State budget woes, now af- yards getting excavated off the top of 2002 which adopted this language, cit- about this. We cannot have Karen re- Unfortunately, at this time, we can not fecting education funding for the 4th the ridgeline, to mention one. ing this as the basis for his opposition elected. Everyone together needs to count on the state of California to pro- year in a row, threaten the quality of That 2/3 of the council did not con- to the Rancho Laguna project. change the face of Moraga politics or vide our schools with the funding it that education and we must band to- sider the compromise on the table that The dictionary defines the word “pro- at least the part of politics that con- needs to continue to provide quality gether to preserve this critical commu- would protect the ridgelines and the tect” to mean: "to shield from injury, cerns Open Space. As Dan Smith said education. nity asset. creek, while still allowing develop- danger or loss; guard, defend". It is in his letter, "... the residents are not The Lafayette community must act Fortunately school leaders have pro- ment, causes bewilderment. baffling to hear that grading off the top going to like what they see when the quickly to find funding sources NOW. vided us the opportunity to support the Another puzzle: how can the council of the ridge is protecting it because the grading begins." There is no such thing Saving our valuable programs, teach- school children of Lafayette by placing come up with the anal definition that homes which will be built would not as an invisible house. Carving up hill- ers, counselors, and other support staff a temporary “brigde the gap” parcel tax says 'protect' does not mean 'prohibit', be seen from a small number of arbi- sides to create this "illusion" of invisi- is a necessity to ensure we maintain on the ballot, Measure B. From my 8 when referring to bulldozing open trarily selected viewpoints. It is even bility is a travesty. our excellent schools. Our children years on the school board I can attest spaces? This new definition certainly harder to understand when this argu- Caroline Wood deserve to be adequately prepared for that our schools are already run as effi- makes me think twice about relying on ment is put forth by a councilmember Moraga the future. ciently as possible – 4 years of budget the town council to protect me, one of who ran on a platform of protecting How will we do this? cuts have a assured that. There is Moraga's citizens. Under their 'protec- open space as Karen Mendonca did. Editor: First, we must pass Measure B on May nowhere left to economize without di- tion', they wouldn't find it necessary to Ridgelines not protected by MOSO While we applaud Governor Jerry 3. This is one step towards generating rectly impacting quality of education – prohibit someone from lopping off my 1986 will only be protected when their Brown and the Legislature for taking local stable funding for our school. in fact some programs have already right arm. In fact, they might even try preservation is not subject to interpre- action on the budget, the proposal to This parcel tax of $176 for the next been pared back and now face possible to convince me that such a loss, with a tation. The current General Plan will abolish redevelopment agencies four years is money that STAYS elimination. While scaling up is rela- bit of creative effort, could become in- be 10 years old in 2012, the time inter- would eliminate affordable housing LOCAL - it cannot be taken away by tively easy once funding returns to nor- visible. val recommended by the state when an funding for Habitat for Humanity in the state. If you are reading this and mal levels, programs eliminated are The approval granted to the Rancho update should occur. Moraga resi- the East Bay and across California. balking at the idea of another tax, I un- very difficult to reinstate. Moreover, Laguna project has set a dangerous dents need to insist this process gets We use this key source of support to derstand. But for less than 50 cents a the children in the seats of our schools precedent. If an area deemed 'Priority underway and ensure that specific lan- revitalize blighted communities, help day, we can make a statement that the right now will only pass this way but Conservation Area', and 'scenic corri- guage is put in place that permanently drive the East Bay economy and Lafayette community cares about our once. A program eliminated for even dor' can be so badly damaged, then protects our ridgelines from those who change lives for hard working fami- schools. Whether you have children a few years means a lesser education what of the other open spaces around covet to build on them, and from the lies. These funds, along with local in the school system or not, our for those kids. Moraga? They've suddenly become politicians who allow them to. donations and the hands-on work of schools not only educate the children I no longer have children in the quite vulnerable. The Open Spaces Malcolm Sproul thousands of volunteers each year, that shape our future, they are a major Lafayette schools but am supporting and Hill of Moraga were cited as rea- Moraga have built nearly 300 affordable factor in making Lafayette a very de- Measure B because I believe it is the sons, along with the school system, as homes. In turn, our Habitat home- sirable neighborhood. community’s obligation to provide a main reasons for people to choose liv- Editor: owners help sustain the economy by Second, we must think outside the strong education. We cannot allow ing in this town; one wonders what Dick Immel and Dan Smith wrote ex- paying property taxes and reducing box. We need to tap into any available for the quality of our school’s to de- the town council and 'planning' com- cellent letters to the Lamorinda reliance on state and local social resources such as grants, donations cline - we owe our community’s mission were thinking. Are we going Weekly last week. Letters are an ex- services. from local businesses, support from children better than that. Please vote to see the removal of a top reason for cellent and important means of com- Habitat East Bay uses this funding to generous alumni and contributions yes on Measure B. choosing Moraga as a preferred habitat municating opinions, but what struck create jobs, employing plumbers, from our real estate agents who under- Sincerely, one hill, one creek, one protected open me while I was reading them is that electricians, engineers and architects. stand that the quality of our schools is Ann Appert space at a time? this is not enough. It is time for all of Redevelopment funds also allow us tied to the value of our homes. Parents Lafayette Leslie Swartz the open space supporters to think to leverage additional non-govern- who have children in the school dis- Moraga about either running for the Town ment funding to support our housing trict were each asked to pay $1000 per Editor: Council or Planning Commission program. student for the 20010-2011 school I'd like to echo the sentiments ex- Editor: themselves or finding people willing Habitat for Humanity offers a hand- year. This form of donation from the pressed in the letters which have re- The recent 2-1 vote by the Moraga to run. As both these men so elo- up, not a hand-out. Habitat homebuy- parents has been going on for years cently been published in your Town Council to approve the Rancho quently pointed out, we were blind- ers purchase their homes at cost and and will continue but it is still not invest 500 hours of sweat equity as enough. Until California can stand on their down payment. They receive its own (and I look forward to that day) training on budgeting, money man- and sufficiently provide for an accept- agement and home maintenance. able education for all students, the en- Habitat’s model of true affordability tire Lafayette community needs to be and homeowner education has kept part of the solution. Should your family our foreclosure rate below 2%, far Third, we must work together as a below the national average. community. Our city officials, our We support redevelopment reform that school board, our teachers, our busi- follow you to Cal? lays the foundation for an efficient sys- ness owners, our residents - with and tem of affordable housing production. without children - everyone. Be an ac- There must remain a mechanism for tive participant in where you live by funding that enables the development staying informed. This can be done in of affordable housing and helps elim- numerous ways such as: attending city inate the sub-standard housing condi- meetings, school board meetings, tions and high rents that plague many reading the paper, or listening to the areas of the East Bay. news. The good news: it is not late to Janice Jensen find out what is going on in Lafayette. Lafayette And the time is right to improve com- munication between the schools, the Editor: city, and the people they serve. My husband and I moved to Lafayette We also need to look towards the fu- for the schools. Do we love the new ture. The only way we can truly move library, the beautifully landscaped past this crisis is to create stability in downtown, the wonderful small town our educational funding source. We community, and the fantastic weather? must all take the time to write and call Absolutely! But that is not why we our state officials and tell them that our moved here. We moved here for the current structure for funding education Of course. Every time they need an eye exam. The University of schools. is broken and we have no choice but That statement is worth repeating be- to fix it. California Eye Center is an integral part of the top-rated UC School cause over the last several years the On the City of Lafayette's homepage, of Optometry, and we’re here to offer you complete vision care for Lafayette School District has made ex- it states that "Lafayette is noted for its penditure cuts in its budget in order to high quality of life with top rated your kids, for you, and for your parents. We’re also the ones to see keep it in balance with shrinking rev- schools." That is true now, but may for LASIK surgery and contact lenses. (Our Eyewear Center has all enue from the state. Under these cir- not be if we do not work on the current cumstances the quality of public crisis in front of us and do so swiftly. the big names in frames!) We take most insurance plans, and major education in Lafayette has been facing Let us lead by example in Lafayette. I a slow decline. Alarmingly, we now look forward to our community work- credit cards. When it comes to your eyes, go Cal! eminently face an enormous decline in ing together and solving this urgent sit- educational funding and quality. We uation that is troubling our wonderful are facing an unprecedented crisis. Lo- community. cally, if Measure B does not pass and Sincerely, if, state-wide, the voters do not pass Jenifer Paul the proposed tax extensions and also if Lafayette Proposition 98 guarantees are not up-
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If you have significant knowledge about an issue facing Lamorinda or one of its cities Open to the Public 7 Days a Week • www.caleyecare.com that requires more than the 350 words to which we must limit Letters to the Editor, 510.642.2020 • Free Parking with Appointments don’t despair! You can submit your letter to our Public Forum section. Just send your letter to [email protected] and let us know you’d like to be considered for the Public Forum. Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B3 Not to be missed Not to be missed ART scenes perspective on this extraordinary munities. Saturday, March 26, from 9am literary event. $5 at the door. to 3pm at MVPC, 10 Moraga Valley 150 Years after the Civil War an Lane, Moraga. Sign up online at help- NEH-sponsored exhibition, Lee and Dr. Amer Araim, President of the Is- savealife.org (Sponsor Code: Mor- Grant, will be on view through Sunday, lamic Community Outreach of Cali- aga925) or call Les Deane at (925) Mar. 20 at the Hearst Art Gallery at Saint fornia and an Imam at the Dar-Ul-Islam 283-5648. Mary’s College in Moraga. The museum Mosque in Concord, will speak to the is open to the public Wednesdays Lafayette Rotary Club on Thursday, Wine and Wells Fund Raiser. Charity through Sundays, 11am- 4:30pm. Adult March 24, at the Oakwood Athletic Club Travel Adventure— Ksenija Olmer is admission is $4; admission is free for K- in Lafayette. Since 9-11, Dr. Araim has hosting a fun evening of wine tasting and 12th grade students and Hearst mem- been engaged in constructive dialogue to virtual travel in support of an upcoming bers. A battlefield re-enactment, build bridges and mutual understanding trip to Cambodia and Laos with an ex- featuring nearly one hundred NCWA and respect of Muslims and their com- tension to Burma, where humanitarian volunteers, is planned for Saturday, munities in America. The public is in- projects will be conducted (such as the March 19, on the Saint Mary’s College vited to listen to Dr. Araim’s talk which building of village wells) in the after- campus. Information: (925) 631-4379. will begin promptly at 1pm. Parking is noons while the group will visit famous Lamorinda’s available and free. Because of space lim- historical and cultural sites in the morn- Guest Member Joanne Taeuffer will itations, reservations should be made ings. Olmer will lead a group of 12 peo- Religious Services join Moraga Art Gallery for its next with Dick Holt at (925) 253-6332. ple on the trip. The tasting of local wines show, Chiaroscuro: Light and Shadow, and short presentation will take place at March 22- June 4. The public is invited Lauren Masi, Physical Therapist, Captain Vineyards, 1969 Joseph Drive, to view Taeuffer’s art along with gallery Athletic Trainer, and Certified Ortho- Moraga (off of Bollinger Canyon on the members’ work at the show’s opening pedic Specialist will be giving an in- Bluffs) on Friday, April 15 at 7pm. reception, March 26, 3-5pm. The works formative lecture on body maintenance Please RSVP to [email protected] or in this exhibit are based on the attraction and repair, posture, and injury preven- (925) 708-0770. of light within the dark: the glow of the tion and care on Tuesday March 29 at storefronts along Taeuffer’s hometown 7pm. This is a free event but seating is Orinda In Action - A Community main street, the shimmering chandeliers limited; please RSVP to (925) 284- Service Day Sat, Apr 16, 9am-12Noon. in a festive restaurant or simply a corner 6150. Event will be held at Lafayette Registration starts 8:30am at Library with a welcoming chair and reading Physical Therapy, 3468 Mt. Diablo Plaza with coffee & bagels. A Free T- light. The gallery is located at 570 Center Blvd. Suite B110, Lafayette, shirt to the first 300! A light lunch is St. in Moraga. For more information, go www.LafayettePT.com. available to all. Everyone welcome! To to www.moragaartgallery.com or register, send an email to orindainac- :RUVKLSWKH/RUG (925)376-5407. KIDS, PARENTS & TEENS [email protected] or visit www.orindain- action.com. ZLWKXV MUSIC For children ages 2-5 years, the Kinderdance program is offering a ACALANES Class of 1971 - 40th Re- St. Mary's NightinGaels perform on 6XQGD\VDW DP free trial class on Saturday, March 26. union coming... If you are part of the March 16 and 17. Under the direction Registration is required for these free class - Please send your contact informa- of Dr. Julie Ford, this mixed chorus classes, so sign up today by visiting tion to [email protected]. sings a cappella and accompanied www.LafayetteRec.org or by calling 0RUDJD9DOOH\3UHVE\WHULDQ&KXUFK repertoire from a wide variety of styles 0RUDJD9DOOH\/DQH0RUDJDZZZPYSFWRGD\RUJ (925) 284-2232. Classes will be held at The Moraga TreeLine Triathlon will (classical, folk, pop, jazz) and is com- the Lafayette Community Center, 500 take place on Saturday, April 30, 7:30 prised of music majors and non-music St. Mary’s Road, Lafayette. am at the Soda Aquatic Center, Cam- majors alike. Join us in a casual campus polindo High School, 300 Moraga Road. setting as the College's chorus sings The 2011 Stanley Science Expo spon- The event is ideal for the beginning jazz and cabaret music. Gershwin and ORINDA CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CENTER sored by Lafayette Partners in Educa- triathlete as well as the more advanced Ellington are among the composers fea- 24 Orinda Way (next to the Library) - 254-4212 tion and Stanley Middle School will be competitor. The swim is a challenging tured in recent programs. Wed., March held on Thursday, March 31st, from 6:30 400 meter sprint, followed by a 22 K Sunday Service and Sunday School 10 - 11 am 16 at 1pm and Thurs., March 17 at - 8:30pm, at Stanley Middle School. The bike ride out to Canyon, and culminating Informal Wednesday Meeting 7:30 - 8:30 pm 8pm, Saint Mary's College, Hagerty Science Expo features numerous science with a 5 K run. New youth divisions Reading Room/Bookstore M - F 11 - 4; Sat 10 - 1 Lounge. Cost: Free. exhibitors along with middle school stu- have been added this year. For more in- dent science projects. Exhibitors include formation and route details go to www.christianscienceorinda.org The Contra Costa Performing Arts NASA, Google Earth, and many more. www.moragatri.com, or call (925) 888- Society Friday morning concert, March Bring the entire family for an evening of 7035. Registration is open. 25th, will open with tenor arias by Faure, hands-on science fun. Elementary 433 Moraga Way Orinda Reynaldo Hahn, and Augustin Lara. A school 5th graders are encouraged to at- POLITICALY MINDED piano, cello, and violin trio will play Regular Worship Schedule tend to get a preview of Stanley events. popular Irish melodies arranged by Lew Uhler, founder and president of 8:15 a.m. Traditions Worship Service Food and drink will be available for pur- 9:15 a.m. Coffee Fellowship Frank Martin. This free concert con- the National Tax Limitation Committee chase. 9:40 a.m. Education for all ages cludes with Saint-Saens Carnival of the (limittaxes.com), is the featured speaker 10:45 a.m. Celebrations Worship Service Animals for two pianos. WHERE: at the Thursday, March 17th lunch meet- 925-254-3422 Moraga Junior Women's Club pres- Childcare available for ages 5 and younger Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice ing of the Lamorinda Republican ents Spring Egg hunt 2011 on Saturday, Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. For more Women, Federated club. Uhler’s topic April 16, from 9am to 1pm, at Moraga info go to www.ccpas.org. will be “Why Taxpayers Will Prevail in Concert: Commons, Corner of Moraga Rd. and Our Savior’s Lutheran (ELCA) the Fight with Government Unions.” 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette FAMOUS St. Mary's Rd., Moraga. Ages 1 to 6. THEATER This program is open to the public with 283-3722 www.oslc.net LAST WORDS Two hunts at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Pur- advance reservations available through SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP Incl Mozart’s The Campolindo High School Choral chase online or at the Parks and Recre- Monday, March 14th by calling (925) 8:30 Classic 10:45 Contemporary REQUIEM Music Department proudly presents ation Department. ADVANCE 459-6768; program details are available PROGRESSIVE. PROACTIVE. Sunday, the musical, "Fiddler on the Roof," about PURCHASE ONLY! Bring basket Cost: at the club’s website at lamorindarepub- PRESENT. We welcome you. March 20, 7 pm a poor dairyman, Tevye, and his five $5 egg hunt (no games), $5 wristband licanwomen.org. daughters in a small Jewish community for unlimited games(no hunt), or $9 for as they try to address tradition, changing both hunt ticket and wristband. For more “Teachers' Unions Vs. The State” at social mores, and growing anti-Semi- info see http://www.moragajuniors.org The Orinda the Commonwealth Club on Monday tism in Czarist Russia. Performances: or email [email protected]. March 28, 6:30pm. As the fever that Community Church Thursday, March 17 at 7:30 pm, Friday, started in Wisconsin spreads across the 10 Irwin Way, Orinda | 925.254.4906 | www.orindachurch.org March 18 at 7:30pm., Sat., March 19 at Need Money for College? Contra country, school districts are suspending “No matter who you are, wherever you are on life’s 2 pm and 7:30 pm, Thursday, March 24 Costa Association of Realtors Scholar- classes and Democratic state senators are journey, you are welcome here!” at 7:30 pm, Friday, March 25 at 7:30 pm, ship Foundation is offering scholarships on the lamb. Join Randi Weingarten and Sat., March 26 at 2 and 7:30pm. For to residents of Central Contra Costa Join us Sundays at 10:00 a.m. (President, American Federation of ticket information go to www.cam- County that have completed one year of Teachers) for a discussion of what's pochoir.com. full-time college, completed courses going on, and how teachers and state with emphasis on real estate, finance houses can solve this financial and edu- Special events at the New Rheem The- and/or business and have a GPA of 3.0 cational crisis. Location: Lafayette Vet- Sundays at atre in Moraga: Mar 19th at 5pm, a or higher. If you qualify, scholarship erans Memorial Hall, 3780 Mt. Diablo Special Screening of the 1982 Classic awards can range from $1,500 to $2,500. Blvd., Lafayette. Time: 5:45 pm. check- Film, "E.T.", April 8th at 7pm, Jazz Band Further information and applications 10:30 am in, 6:30 pm. program. Cost: $12 mem- Concert and Dance with The Big Band may be found on line at www.ccarschol- bers, $22 non-members, $7 students, $7 of Rossmoor. April 9th at 7pm, Macbeth arship.com. Deadline is April 15th. To A NEW, non-denominational Christian church teachers and school administrators. For ATo NEW A NEW,, non-denominational non-denominational ChristianChristian church church with Special Guest Jonathan Moscone, tickets go to commonwealthclub.org or in Lafayette - Sundays at 10:30 am Cal Shakes' Artistic Director. For info e- OTHER Veteransin LafayetteMemorial Building- Sundays 3780 Mt.at 10:30Diablo Blvd., Lafayette am call (415) 597-6705. mail [email protected] or
call (925) 388-0752. The Orinda Community Foundation Board of Trustees has an opening. Our 31st Annual PTA Advocacy Day Trip www.refugecommunity.org will take place on Tuesday March 29th; 925-942-1000 The Saint Mary’s College Performing current secretary has moved out of PTA Membership is not required for at- Arts Department spring production Orinda so position needs to be replaced. tendance. We all know our state is in fi- will be ANGELS AMONG US, a selec- Those interested may email orindafoun- nancial trouble but we can’t let that stop tion of interesting and thought-provok- [email protected] and/or attend next progress on improving education; our ing plays from long ago. The production meeting on Wed., March 16 at 4 pm. children can’t afford to wait. Help bring will feature SMC students acting out sto- that message to Sacramento. You will ries from the Bible. Performances will Outstanding personnel from the U.S. 66 St. Stephen’s Drive, Orinda hear from key state education, PTA, and run from April 5 through April 13. Per- Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, the U. S. legislative speakers as well as a panel of 254-3770. www.ststephensorinda.org formances will take place outside in Coast Guard and the Naval Sea Cadet education experts who will be sharing front of Saint Mary’s College Chapel (in Corps for youth will be honored in Sunday 8am & 10am. best practices in education reform. For case of rain, performances will take Lafayette on March 24 by the Contra Music at both services. Choir at 10am. Speakers, Legislators and Registration place in LeFevre Theatre). General Ad- Costa Council of the Navy League of the Sunday School & childcare at 10am. details please visit www.lastrampaspta.org mission -$10; Saint Mary’s Faculty, Staff United States. Awardees are selected by OR www.srvcouncilpta.org. St. Stephen’s Preschool and Students-$5. To purchase “chair” their peers from active duty units in the tickets please call Sharon Cahill at (925) Bay Area and are considered to be the 254-3770 x19 CLUBS 631-4670. Performances are slated for: “Best of the Best”. The dinner, an annual Part One: April 5, 7, and 12 at 5pm; event, will be held at the Lafayette Vet- The Suburban Woman's Club of and April 9 and 10 at 2 PM. Part Two: erans Memorial Building. Members of Lafayette is holding its next meeting on St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church April 6, 8,9*, 10 and 13 at 5pm. One the public are welcomed to attend. Infor- March 17 at the Lafayette Community A Loving Community FREE performance will take place on mation may be obtained by calling Center in the Elderberry Room at 11:30. Sunday Services: 8 and 10 AM Saturday, April 9 at the Moraga Com- Jeanne Sharkey, Immediate Past Council Lunch is provided by the members and mons Bandshell at the corner of St. President, at (925)228-1375. we invite all women over the age of 55 Active Youth Program, Sunday School, Nursery Childcare, 10 AM Mary’s Road and Moraga Road. Bring to join us. The Club is affiliated with the 682 Michael Lane, Lafayette, 284-7420, www.stanselms.ws lawn chairs, blankets, picnics, etc. and A Shredding Event with No Trace Federated Women's Clubs of California, enjoy the shows. No reservations Shredding, Saturday, March 26, 10am National and International. For further needed. to 1pm, Lamorinda Adult Respite Cen- information on the club and our activities ter, 433 Moraga Way, Orinda (Holy contact Jean Cappa at Get connected. LECTURE & LITERATURE Shepherd Lutheran Church Parking [email protected] or join us at the Lot). Paper only - no cardboard! $5/box meeting. Grow in your faith. "Finding" Mark Twain's Autobiogra- (equivalent to a Banker Box) Size 14" x phy, Thursday, March 17, 1:30–3pm, Serve others. 16" (length) x 11 1/4" All proceeds will The Moraga Women's Society will Lafayette Library and Learning Center, be donated to Lamorinda Adult Respite meet on Monday, March 21st at 9:30am Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church 3491 Mount Diablo Blvd, Lafayette. Center. Call (925) 254-3465 or email: at the Holy Trinity Cultural Center, 1700 Published in 2010, 100 years after Mark Sunday Worship 9 & 11:00 a.m. [email protected]. School St., Moraga. The speaker will be Twain’s death, the Autobiography of Programs for children & youth Mary Volmer, instructor at St. Mary's Mark Twain (Volume 1 of 3) has spent Blood Drive: Moraga Valley Presby- College and author of the novel, "Crown 14 weeks in the top 10 of the New York terian Church, working with the Amer- of Dust." Visitors are welcome to hear 49 Knox Drive l Lafayette l www.LOPC.org l 925-283-8722 Times bestseller list and proven a source ican Red Cross, is sponsoring a blood her discussion. Contact: Jean Glaser of controversy and delight. Learn what drive to help save lives in our local com- (925) 376-7961. all the fuss is about and get a behind-the- Page: B4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 • Dining • Dining • Dining • Dining • Dining • Dining • A Trio of Good Eats from The Punky Chef By Susie Iventosch Japanese Restaurant ou never know what you might without hesitation. I always get ing the farmers’ markets.” Ylearn about people when you everything exactly how I request it, In fact, she is committed to grow- start asking questions. This is a fa- whether it’s a latte at Papillon, or an ing different vegetables in her own vorite habit of local education con- entrée prepared for a party. garden each year. This year, she plans sultant Elizabeth LaScala, who, in “But, perhaps the best quality is to grow fava beans and cranberry keeping with her line of work as a her absolutely unflappable calmness beans –a red and white striped vari- college advisor, is always interested under pressure. Andrea makes per- ety. in what young people in our commu- fection happen!” One of her favorite uses of fava nity are up to. One day, she was full Needless to say, with an introduc- beans is in the salad below, with es- of questions as she ventured into Pa- tion like this, I wanted to try a few of carole, orange segments and hazel- pillon to get a latte from her favorite her recipes myself. So, I asked The nuts tossed in Apricot-Meyer Lemon barista. Punky Chef (so named for Cebalo’s Vinaigrette. But, she also incorpo- 356 Park Street, Moraga “Andrea Cebalo has made the childhood nickname, “Punky”) to rates fava beans with her Mint Puree- (next to Rheem Theatre) most wonderful lattes for me for over please send a few recipes my way to Pecorino Crostini. 376-2872 a decade,” said LaScala. “Finally, one try for the food column. Unfortunately, it’s still a month or Tuesday-Sunday Lunch & Dinner day I asked her what her future plans “Meyer lemon is one of my fa- so too early for both fresh fava beans www.kirinsushi.us held, because I could see she had vorite flavors of the season and I love and escarole, but I found that the many talents, besides being a terrific to combine it with apricot,” the Apricot-Lemon Meyer Vinaigrette barista. Shetold me that she was in Punky Chef told me. “Even though was fantastic drizzled over Belgian the culinary program at Diablo Valley fresh apricots aren't in season yet, I endive with a little touch of feta TORAN RIS TE College.” found there are plenty of recipes that cheese and toasted pecans. The Now, food is a subject near and work well with a good quality pre- sweetness of the dressing was the dear to LaScala’s heart, and in the serve. The combination is also good perfect foil to the slight bitterness of course of the conversation, she dis- for adding a little springtime sweet- the endive. covered that Cebalo had a small ness to a meal such as a St. Patrick's Cebalo’s recipes are unique and T D AP OO catering business, The Punky Chef. Day corned beef or an Easter lamb.” delicious. The Punky Chef caters AS • SEAF The timing couldn’t have been better, Cebalo, who loves Mediter- events from very large parties to sin- Offering: as LaScala had her daughter’s im- ranean cuisine, spent a summer in gle platters for private family meals, • Super Healthy Food pending graduation party on her Florence enrolled in a “contempo- in addition to her “special occasion” • No Trans Fats, No Heavy Sauces mind. rary” Italian cooking class. There she cupcake delivery service for any hol- • Only Naturally Delicious Food at “I’ve had Andrea cater several learned that one of her favorite dishes iday or event. Affordable Prices gatherings since, and her cuisine is is a simple, yet classic, Margherita • Piano Music, and Love divine, prepared exactly how I ask. pizza made with fresh mozzarella, The Punky Chef 3531 Plaza Way, Lafayette She really knows her nutrition, too, basil and tomatoes. (925)360-0743 (near the Lafayette theatre) Reservations recommended and handles every special request, “I love to use the freshest, most www.thepunkychef.com from low-sodium or low-fat dishes to organic ingredients possible,” she (925) 284-1330 creamy sauces and rich desserts, said. “I am always inspired by perus- Lic. Castro Ascarrunz, owner, chef, waiter, entertainer Since 1963 Apricot Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette INGREDIENTS St. Patrick’s Day Special 1 tablespoon minced shallot 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Thurs, March 17th 1½ to 2 tablespoons good quality apricot preserves (I used just 1 tablespoon due to husband who refrains from mixing Corned Beef & Cabbage $13.00 sweet and savory) ½ teaspoon fresh ginger Live Music from 6:00-8:30 1/3 cup white or red wine vinegar featuring Carol Alban (flute, keys, guitar, vocals) Juice of two Meyer lemons Mark Shaw (violin, vocals) and with some surprise guest Pinch of garlic powder performers. Enjoy Irish Music and Jazz Standards! Salt and pepper to taste 3 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil h Serving Guinness! sc (may want to add a little more olive oil) to Make Your en DIRECTIONS Iv sie Reservations Today! Blend all ingredients except the olive oil in a Su oto blender or whisk well in a bowl, slowly add extra virgin Ph olive oil to taste. Taste the dressing, and add more sweetness, acid or oil to taste. Mark Shaw Carol Alban Fava and Escarole Salad with Apricot Meyer 925-376-3832 1419 Moraga Way, Moraga Shopping Center Lemon Vinaigrette www.terzettocuisine.com Mon: 7am - 2pm; Tues-Sun: 7am - 8:30pm INGREDIENTS 2 heads escarole (or about 1 handful per person), cleaned and chopped 1/3 finely sliced red onion Lavender Honey Caramelized Onion 1/3 cup chopped and toasted hazelnuts (or walnuts) ½ cup Cara cara navel orange segments and Roasted Asparagus Flatbread ½ cup blanched and shelled fresh or frozen fava beans Salt and pepper Apricot Meyer lemon vinaigrette (recipe nearby) DIRECTIONS Mix all the ingredients, and toss with vinaigrette to taste. Roasted Root Vegetables in an Apricot Meyer Lemon Glaze INGREDIENTS 1 lb. parsnips ½ lb. carrots ½ lb. sweet potato, turnip, or beet root Serves 4 to 6 INGREDIENTS 1½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil ½ medium yellow onion, finely sliced 1 finely chopped shallot 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil (used to brush dough and also ½ teaspoon garlic powder in caramelizing onions, and roasting asparagus) Salt and pepper 1 teaspoon finely chopped lavender 3 to 4 sprigs fresh thyme 1½ teaspoons honey Pinch herbes de Provence Salt and pepper to taste Apricot Meyer lemon glaze (below) ½ lb. fresh asparagus, roasted and chopped into 1½ inch sticks DIRECTIONS 2 oz. chevre Preheat oven to 425 degrees. 1 prepared whole wheat pizza dough (can use crostini or focac- Peel and chop vegetables to 1½ inch cia bread) pieces and toss with olive oil, salt, Apricot Meyer Lemon Glaze 1½ teaspoon grated Parmigiano reggiano Olive oil for brushing pepper, shallot, garlic powder, thyme, INGREDIENTS ½ teaspoon lemon zest and herbs. Lay in a single layer in a 1/3 cup good quality apricot preserves 1 to 2 oz. smoked salmon (optional) baking sheet or roasting pan. Bake Juice of one Meyer lemon DIRECTIONS until fork tender and browning on the Gently warm apricot preserves and lemon juice for a Preheat oven to 450 degrees.Roll out pizza dough to about ¼ inch, edges, about 25 minutes. few minutes. Set aside for vegetables. and brush with olive oil. Place dough on pizza pan or heated pizza Toss in apricot glaze. Serve warm. stone and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Take the dough out of the oven and sprinkle with pieces of chevre, caramelized onion, asparagus, (salmon, if using), Parmigiano, zest, Susie Iventosch is the author of Tax Bites and Tasty Morsels, which can be found at salt and pepper to taste. Place back in the oven until the toppings are Across the Way in Moraga, just warmed through. For Caramelized Onions www.amazon.com, and www.taxbites.net. Heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in a sauté pan over medium low heat; add in Susie can be reached at [email protected]. sliced onion, lavender and a pinch of salt. Cook the onions until they start to become translucent, about 10 minutes. Stir in the honey, and These recipes are available on our web site. add another teaspoon of olive oil if the onions are beginning to stick or burn. Continue to cook until the onions cook down and become Go to: www.lamorindaweekly.com browned and caramelized, about 10 to 15 minutes more. Many of our readers like Susie's recipes. Our website For the Roasted Asparagus now features a link to our recipe page where you can ½ lb. asparagus spears read, print or download all of the recipes we have 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar or juice of a lemon published. If you would like to share your favorite Salt and pepper, to taste recipe with Susie please contact her by email or call our Roast in 400° oven for about 10 minutes, or until just al dente. Cut office at 925-377-0977 into 1½ inch pieces. Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: C1
Lamorinda Girls’ Basketball Postseason Review By Conrad Bassett
Lamorinda Basketball Academy (LBA) Fundamentals of basketball Girls Grades 3-8 Learn basketball skills required to play at the next level. Learn/perfect basic skills: dribbling, shooting, passing, rebounding, defensive skills, footwork, and Teamwork! Build toward competitive game play! Sign up now: Contact us at [email protected] or 925-681-8400. Check out our website at www.LBAhoops.com If you would like to list the registration information for a youth sports club please email [email protected] or call (925) 377-0977. B&W listing will cost $24 (3.75”x1”).
Campolindo celebrates after beating Miramonte in the second round of the NCS Photo Jordan Fong ll the Lamorinda teams made it three pointer, Forshay again attacked Campolindo sent them out on the road Ato the postseason at both the the basket giving the Cougars a 65-64 to face opponents—Sacramento High North Coast Section (NCS) and CIF- lead with 25 seconds to go. and Sacred Heart Cathedral, respec- Northern California tournaments. O’Dowd scored to take the lead. tively. Early Spring Savings NCS: Campo in-bounded the ball, but a long The Lady Mats jumped off to an The Miramonte girls’ basketball shot fell short and O’Dowd had their early 15-13 lead after the first period, team met up with Campolindo on third consecutive NCS division III but a 13-5 Sac High second period put March 2 for the third time this year, championship. them down by six at the intermission. but but the third time was did not Forshay and Ward led Cam- They fought a strong battle, staying prove to be the 'charm' as the Lady polindo with 16 points each. close until near the end, finally losing Cougars overwhelmed the Matadors CIF-North Coast Section: 50-43. with 28 fourth period points to secure The following Tuesday, March 8, Johanson led Miramonte (and all a berth in the North Coast Section Di- all three Lamorinda teams began the scorers) with 15 as they finished their vision III championship game. The run to the CIF Northern California season with an outstanding 23-7 final was 75 to 63. championships. Campolindo, Mira- record. The game was close throughout monte, and Acalanes were the six, Campolindo headed across the the first three periods as neither team seven and nine seeds, respectively, in bay to take on the Sacred Heart Cathe- held a lead of more than six points. the 12 team bracket. dral. Campo came out strong building The Mats had taken a 56-52 lead. Acalanes went up to Fairfield to a 12 point lead at half. Sacred Heart George C Tuck, founder of Atlas Heating Co. in 1908. Then Campolindo went to work face Vanden of the San Joaquin Sec- closed the gap, but Campo held on to and the Cougars scored 10 straight tion and played well early. Behind win 63-57. Sophomore Laura Hickey Hand us this Lamorinda Weekly ad and receive three points to establish a lead they would junior Sophie Taylor’s outside shoot- led the team with 12 points to go with not give up. ing, Acalanes opened up a 20-14 lead eight rebounds. years of free maintenance on your forced air furnace Senior Annie Ward led a balanced at the end of the first period. This win brought Campolindo an replacement* in addition to PG&E and Local 104 Cougar attack with 21 points while Vanden came back strong in the opportunity to make the same road trip rebates, plus a Federal Tax Credit**. senior Amanda Forshay and junior second and third periods behind Er- Miramonte had two nights earlier—to Offer expires March 31st. Mallory Brown had 16 apiece. imma Amarikwa who led all scorers Sacramento High. Campo kept it Matador senior Alyssa Johansen with 31 points, 21 coming in the sec- close most of the evening—getting Call us now for a free estimate—days, evenings or weekends. led all scorers with 22 points while ond half. within two with less than 15 seconds TM junior Devon McDonald added 11. The Lady Dons fell 56-49 and to go but were edged out, 58-54. It’s time to get comfortable. Despite the loss Miramonte, along ended their season with a very suc- Ito led Campo with 16 points and with Acalanes, qualified to compete in cessful 19-10 record. Senior Emani 15 rebounds. The Cougars finished the / - the CIF-Nor Cal tournament. Harrison led the Dons with 15 points year at 25-7. (%!4).' !)2 #/.$)4)/.).' #/-0!.9 The win moved Campolindo into in her last game. It was an absolutely outstanding 3INCE the NCS Championship game against Over in Orinda, Miramonte re- year as the three Lamorinda teams fin- Bishop O’Dowd on March 5. Bishop ceived a home game against Northern ish with a 67-24 record and boast a x£äÓÇÓx£ÎÈ WWWATLASHEATINGCOM O’Dowd defeated Acalanes to reach Section runner up, Enterprise. The combined 60-17 against non-Lamor- *May not be combined with other coupons.¬ #! ,IC the championship game. Lady Mats took the lead and never inda opponents. **Some restrictions may apply. The Cougars jumped off to a 15-9 looked back, leading 28-11 at the half. lead after one period, but the Dragons In the second half the confident played very well in the second period Mats went on to win 63-28. Johanson and took a 36-28 lead into the inter- led a balanced attacked with 14 points. mission. The trend continued in the At the same time in Moraga, the third period as O’Dowd opened up a Campolindo girls hosted Christian lead that eventually went to 13 points. Brothers of Sacramento, also of the The Cougars fought back to erase San Joaquin Section. the deficit. With the score tied at 59 Campo jumped off to a 22-11 lead and less than two seconds to go, O’- after one period and led by eight at the Dowd missed to send the game to half. Christian Brothers never got overtime. closer than seven the rest of the way. The overtime period was just as Ward led Campo with 24 points and exciting. With 1:07 to go Forshay hit junior Annelise Ito added 20 points two free throws to give Campo a 63- and nine rebounds in the 79-64 win. 61 lead and following an O’Dowd The victories for Miramonte and
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Submit stories to [email protected] Carly Gill (13) and Devon McDonald (3) congratulate Alyssa Johanson after she hits a lay-up and draws a foul Photo Jordan Fong Page: C2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS Saint Mary’s Wins in Vegas By Caitlin Graveson until the semi-finals of the tourna- to play. The game remained close until it a grinder game. If we keep it in the ment. They opened the tournament the final minutes. Freshman forward 60’s we have a chance,” head coach against the University of San Diego Danielle Mauldin hit a huge shot and Paul Thomas said before the game. on Sunday, March 6. Saint Mary’s drew a foul with 42.9 seconds to play to The Gaels controlled the tempo just edged out the Toreros in their last give the Gaels a 67-65 lead. Saint and maintained a low-scoring game regular-season match-up and this Mary’s held on from there to win, 71-68. for the first 15 minutes of play. While game proved to be close as well. “We are really excited to get that the Gaels defense was stellar, their of- The Gaels got off to a slow start, first win in the WCC tournament. We fense was stagnant. SMC shot just 23 down 2-8 early. Coming off a career had confidence and that really got us percent from the field in the first half. game against Portland just the week through the game,” said redshirt jun- Heading into halftime Saint Mary’s before, junior guard Alex Carbonel ior guard Jasmine Smith. was down eight, 20-28. again proved to be the spark off of the Tomlinson captured the all-time The second half was dominated bench Saint Mary’s needed. She scoring record in the first half of the by the Bulldogs. They outscored the dropped a three, hit a lay-up and drew game off a free-throw. She notched 21 Gaels, 26 to 44 to win 72-46. a foul to ignite a 7-0 run to get the points in the match. Mauldin again came up big for Photo Tod Fierner Gaels back in the game. With the win Saint Mary’s ad- the Gaels, leading SMC in scoring a aint Mary’s women’s basketball ward Louella Tomlinson captured the Both teams traded points for the vanced to the WCC Championship for career-high 19 points and adding ten Sexperienced some ups-and- Saint Mary’s all-time scoring record. rest of the half. In the final minute of the first time since 2001. The Gaels rebounds. downs in the West Coast Conference On the negative side Saint Mary’s lost the half, Saint Mary’s went on a 9-0 faced Gonzaga for a third time this The Gaels are guaranteed a spot tournament. On the positive side, the handily to Gonzaga for the third time run to build a 44-43 lead heading into season but yet again, could not outlast in the WNIT tournament for the sec- Gaels broke a two-year WCC tourna- this season. the break. the dominant Bulldogs, losing 72-46. ond year in a row. The bracket an- ment winless spell, dating back to the Finishing in second place in con- The Toreros stormed back in the “They are an extremely efficient nouncement was made late Monday 2007-2008 season, and senior for- ference play, the Gaels received a bye second half to tie it up with 14 minutes team. We have to do our best to make night after the press deadline. Lamorinda Baseball Preview Acalanes, Miramonte off to a strong start By Alex Crook fielder Ryan Hooper and two John Treat, but Acalanes returns freshmen, infielder Denis Karas first baseman Drew Gaylord and and pitcher Matt Ladrech. utility man Spencer Henderson. Campolindo is currently 0-2 Both juniors were named to the after losses to Heritage and Clay- DFAL Honorable Mention Team ton Valley (3-0-1); both teams are last year. "I would not count us tough programs. The Cougars out of the NCS championships," will open DFAL against visiting said Evan Heptig, senior short- Dougherty Valley on March 29. stop and captain for Acalanes. Acalanes: The Dons also welcome freshman Acalanes, although four years shortstop Austin Fisher. removed from an NCS title, has a Acalanes is on a roll right history of success on the baseball now, boasting an early 5-0, which diamond. Still, last year proved to they will put to the test in their be a difficult season for the Dons. first league game March 29 They finished 15-10 overall, with against rival Miramonte. The five a 5-7 league record and a fifth early wins were over Mount place league finish. Acalanes lost Eden, Bishop O’Dowd, North- in the first round of NCS playoffs. gate, Skyline, and Sonoma Valley. The Dons graduated pitcher
Acalanes' Grant Diede swings against Northgate in Acalanes' 3-0 win Photo Doug Kohen ll three Lamorinda high second-team all DFAL player Valuable Player. Rei hit .350 last Aschool baseball teams are from the previous year, junior season, with three homeruns. poised to have strong seasons and pitcher Spencer Marx. Mira- Also playing a key role for a chance at the DFAL title. Both monte’s roster consists entirely of Campo will be junior pitcher Campolindo and Miramonte are upperclassmen. James Marvel and senior pitcher coming off North Coast Section The Mats are 4-1 and all four Matt Bruzzone. Marvel made (NCS) Championship seasons, wins have come in dominant first-team all DFAL last year with and Acalanes looks to build on fashion. The lone loss was to Her- a 1.12 ERA, while Bruzzone was improvements made last season. itage (3-1-0), who also beat Cam- named honorable mention. Bruz- Miramonte: polindo. The Matadors are zone will have to step up, though, Last year, Miramonte finished undefeated at home. They will to replace recently-graduated in second place in the league open league play to defend their pitcher Nick Russ. standings behind Campolindo, NCS title in Lafayette as they “We are all really looking for- but went on to win the division III visit Acalanes on March 29. ward to the year. We've got a solid NCS title, their second straight. Campolindo: core of young guys returning and The Mats return a first-team all Campolindo, the defending we feel really comfortable with DFAL out-fielder in junior Matt DFAL and division II NCS each other, just like a family. Bonomo, but lose two former Champion, finished last year with We've got some new guys work- first-team all DFAL nominees to an 8-4 league record and an over- ing hard as well and as a team graduation, third-baseman all record of 21-7. A key returner we've got some high expecta- Michael Mann and catcher Kevin for the Cougars this year is junior tions. It's going to be fun,” says Paulsen. catcher Austin Rei, who was Marvel. Newcomers for the Miramonte's Chris Perry crosses home plate in the 8-3 win over Hogan. The Matadors also return a named last year’s DFAL Most Cougars include sophomore in- Photo Linda Epperson
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Lafayette Little League Submitted by Todd Bequette 27-March 5 Majors Division nothing, as darkness fell on Cheney served the victory for the Tribe with a Submitted by Amy Kikugawa Giants 16 Cardinals 15 Field. sparkler. The Giants got off the mat and staged Giants 8 Cardinals 7 Phillies 11 Indians 7 Moraga Baseball Association 2 for 3, 3B, 2 RS, RBI; Lucas Allen 2 a wild comeback in the bottom of the Down by six in the bottom of the fifth, Josh Sanders’ late inning RBI sealed Pony Division for 3, HR, 1 RS, RBI; Andrew Fenske sixth to pull out the victory. the Cardinals’ rally fell short and the the victory for the Phils. February 27, 2011 2 BB, 3 SB, 2 RS. AAA Division game was called for darkness. Dodgers 9 Yankees 9 Game 1: Moraga Tigers 3, Piedmont 16 Yankees Highlights: Grant Harper 2 Cardinals 8 Athletics 8 Indians 8 Cubs 7 Two storied franchises battled to a flat Tigers Highlights Scott Chen 1 for 3, for 3, 2B, 1 RS, 3 SB; Grant Johnson The opener for both teams settled Second sacker Mathew Turano pre- footed tie. 2B; RS; Scott Smoot 1 for 3, RS; Ryan 1 for 2, 2B, 1 RS, RBI. Geisreiter 1 for 2, RBI; Mark San- taguida 1 for 1, RS. Moraga Baseball Association Pinto Division OBA Pinto d Game 2: Moraga Tigers 6, Piedmont 3 March 5, 2011 Submitted by Junaid Khan Tigers Highlights Jake Rider 3 for 4, Cubs 13, Giants 10 he OBA pinto season 2RBI, 5 IP, 5K; Alex Gannett 2 for 4, started with a bang as the rRS, RBI; Kyle O’Connell 1 for 1, Cubs Highlights – Joe Schmidt HR in T Outlaws beat the Rampage 24-18 RBI; Matt Blair RS, RBI 3rd, 2 RS; Alex Clare 3-for-3, 3-1B, 3 RS; Jack Bunzel-Hardie 3-for-3, 3-1B, on March 5. Moraga Baseball Association 2 RS: The two teams face off again Mustang Division t Giants Highlights – Jason Simi 3-for- on March 27. March 5, 2011 3, 3-1B; Jackson Rusconi 2-for-3, 1 Redsox 7, Yankees 4 RS; Brady Manz 2-for-3, 2 RS; Redsox Highlights: Donovan Robles Back (L to R): Murphy, Straub, Mechelke, Schwarz, Swensen, Pieper Front: Khan, Karp, Olsen, Rezapour, PacRim Volleyball Earns Brown; not pictured, Hemming #2 Ranking Photo provided Divers Compete in Region Championships d Submitted by Steve Sherman Over 400 divers from nine states competed. Morgan Matranga (Moraga) completed four new dives in the 14- 15 girls three meter springboard. Matranga scored 272 points and placed 17th. Brenna Cetrone (Orinda) trav- eled for the first time to compete in t the 12-13 girls three meter competi- tion. She finished just one-tenth of a r point away from medaling, finishing 13th overall. Maren Kjell (Moraga) competed t against 60 girls in the 16-18 girls one meter springboard. She finished 23rd overall, scoring 299.70 points on Steve Sherman, Maren Kjell, Morgan Matranga, Asher Lichtig, Brenna nine dives. Back row (L-R): Roger Worsley (coach), Robert Steiner, Jonathan Santos, Derek Cetrone (holding the sign), and Erich Brodbeck Photo provided Asher Lichtig (Lafayette) placed Lodge, Mitchell Brooks, Julian Egoian, Sean Vasima; Front Row: Michael herman Swim School took five Junior Diving Championships in 11th in the 16-18 boys one meter Standring, Joe Worsley, Peter Jones, Gage Worsley Photo provided Sdivers to the Region 10 U.S. Beaverton, Oregon, March 5-6. springboard with 366.10 points. acific Rim Volleyball Academy Boys 14’s (PacRim) won the Northern PCalifornia Volleyball Association Regional Championships in December to garner a #1 ranking in NorCal. They earned the top bid to Junior Nationals Lamorinda Indoor Soccer Champions in Minneapolis in July 2011. The Team followed up with a third place finish Submitted by Scott Loughran-Smith in the prestigious Southern California Volleyball Classic held in Anaheim in he Lafayette Blackhawks January. PacRim is now the #2 ranked Boys 14’s team in California. Tare comprised of fourth grade boys from Springhill St. Monica’s Second School and Lafayette Elementary. The club had an undefeated sea- son both in league play and the Grade CYO tournament. They were crowned Submitted by Dustie Robeson champions on March 12.
Top row: Coach Scott Loughran- Smith, Sam McLeod, Alex Cortessis, Chris Rogers, Sebastian Bowes, Lane Altbaum, Coach Mike Novak Bot- tom row: Tucker Loughran-Smith, Jeffrey Novak, Shea Grosz, Erik Voss, Christian Ramsey Photo Lori Loughran-Smith Saint Mary’s Men Play in NIT ... continued from page A1
Front Row (L to R): Cole Jeter, Arik Nashan, JT Clarke, Nicholas Meng, Drew Isola, and Cade Bennett. Back row: Joey Schmidt, Colin Hilkemeyer, Justin Lineweaver, Tanner Robeson, and Chase Bennett. Coaches Mike Isola (L) and Eric Clarke (R). Photo provided t. Monica's second graders won the CYO league title in a tough Sgame against St. Perpetua, finishing up their winning season with an 11 - 1 record. SMC Gaels Home Game Schedule
www.SMCGaels.com
Wed, Mar 16 SB Drake Cottrell Field 1:00 PM Wed, Mar 16 SB Drake Cottrell Field 3:00 PM Fri, Mar 18 WTEN Harvard 2:30 PM Mitchell Young (3) shoots against two Santa Clara defenders in the semi-final game of the WCC tournament Mon, Mar 21 MTEN Oregon 3:00 PM Photo Tod Fierner Tue, Mar 22 SB Northwestern Cottrell Field 3:00 PM “I'm not sure what changed offen- final home game for their seniors – his players did their best to move for- Tue, Mar 22 MTEN UC Riverside 3:00 PM sively for us,” Bennett said after- McConnell and forward Phil Benson ward. “We can't let ourselves get de- Fri, Mar 25 BSB New Orleans 3:00 PM wards. "Obviously, playing without – but Sunday’s NCAA Tournament flated… We’ve got more games left,” Sat, Mar 26 BSB New Orleans 1:00 PM Jones is a pretty key part of our deal. decision and the NIT birth changed Jones said. “The season continues.” Sun, Mar 27 BSB New Orleans 1:00 PM Foul trouble affected us.” that fate. Jones had 20 points and 13 The NIT Opening round contest Fri, Apr 1 MTEN Santa Clara 3:00 PM The Gaels had one final contest boards in the win, while McConnell on Tuesday night against Kent State Sat, Apr 2 WTEN Santa Clara 12:00 PM before Selection Sunday, and made had 15 and eight assists on his senior was played after press time. If the Sat, Apr 2 MTEN Gonzaga 12:00 PM the best of the opportunity as they night. Gaels won, they will play the winner blew out Weber State 77-54. Saint While Sunday wasn’t a happy oc- of Fairfield and Colorado State some- Schedule is subject to change. Confirm at www.SMCGaels.com Mary’s had hoped it would be the casion in Gael-land, both Bennett and time later in the week. Page: C4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS Campo Graduate Breaks Lamorinda United 95 U-15 Girls Win UCSB Records Soccer Tournament Submitted by Andrew Ward Submitted by Benson Chan ting ready for the California Youth Soccer Association state tournament at the end of March. As part of their preparations, the team played in the Northern California Spring Showcase tournament on March 5 and 6 in Palo Alto and Los Altos. Lamorinda won all three preliminary games, including a dramatic come from behind win against a strong Sonoma County Al- liance team. Lamorinda United scored two goals in the last ten min- utes to advance to the championship Back row (L to R) - Sarah Mills, Annie Loose, Lindsay Wilson, Jordan Rowley, Mali Tehaney, Julia Reshke, Megan Reid, Jane Fessenden, Tori Kallerud game against Livermore Fusion Front row (L to R) - Stephanie Munoz, Regan Gong, Carly Moran, Sam Black 95G. The Lamorinda U-15 Martin, Emily Orwig, Kristen Chan Photo Brian Fessenden girls then outscored Livermore Fu- fter a short break from the club cer, the girls on the Lamorinda Soccer sion 4-1 to win the tournament cham- Aseason to play high school soc- Club U-15 team are back at work get- pionship in the U-15 gold division. Acalanes Students Compete at
Ward and swim coach Photo provided Invitational Track Meet ndrea Ward, a graduate of Cam- Diving Championships. Ward was the Submitted by David Faulkner Apolindo High School, currently only swimmer in the MPSF to score California High School Indoor In- swims for UC Santa Barbara and had two individual gold-medals and a sil- vitational Track Meet held at a significant freshman year. Ward set ver medal in the 2011 championships. Fresno State. Both athletes had to school records in the 500 Free Ward swam for Orinda Aquatics for qualify for this race by competing (4:48.60), the 100 Butterfly (53.83) eight years and was named team cap- at a track meet held at UC Berke- during the Mountain Pacific Sports tain and Swimmer of the Year while ley on February 5. Both Hollsh- Federation (MPSF) Swimming and at Campolindo. wandner and Faulkner raced in the 600 yard run. While an unusual distance to run in California, high WINTER SPORT schools in the East and Mid-West still run this indoor distance. This ALL-DFAL TEAMS was the first time both athletes Sport School Award Student competed on an indoor track. Boys’ Basketball Miramonte First Team Anthony Piganelli Hollshwandner finished first in Second Team Ross Anderson Adler Faulkner finished in second place for the 600 yard run. Photo provided her heat and ninth overall. Honorable Mention Kiran Shastri n Saturday, February 26, two Faulkner and Amy Hollshwandner, Faulkner finished first in his heat Acalanes First Team Stephen Collins OAcalanes sophomores, Adler traveled to Fresno to compete in the and second overall. Second Team James Griffin Honorable Mention Michael Jackson, Jr. Campolindo First Team Carl King SMC Lacrosse Reaches Out to School Second Team Griffin Piatt Honorable Mention Rob Wirth Submitted by Tina Skuce Girls’ Basketball Miramonte First Team Alyssa Johanson aint Mary’s men’s lacrosse Second Team Janine Loutzenhiser Stook time out from their sea- Honorable Mention Megan Reid son to spend some time reading to Breanna Alford Lafayette Elementary School stu- Liza Katz dents in honor of “Read Across Acalanes Second Team Emani Harrison America” day. Saint Mary’s Kiara Harewood men’s lacrosse is currently #20 in Honorable Mention Sophia Taylor the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Campolindo First Team Annie Ward Amanda Forshay Association. The Gaels hosted Honorable Mention Annalisse Ito #16 CSU Fullerton on Sunday, Boys’ Soccer Miramonte First Team Nick Bachu March 13 but fell 14-5. Second Team Theodore Deutz Honorable Mention Jose Gutierrez Arya Haghighi Sophomore Christian Skuce and Taro Kyllonen Senior Blake Pryor Acalanes Co-Most Valuable Jacob Carroll Photo Carol Harris Defensive Player Jackson Foote First Team Dylan Autran Cam Carda Nick Pereira St. Perpetua CYO Season Wraps Up Second Team Austen Grassini fter a tough basketball season, the following St. Per- can boys, sixth grade National boys, fifth grade National Dan Glascock petua teams won the West Diablo League Champi- boys, fifth grade American boys and the fourth grade Na- Dave Helfrich A Honorable Mention Adrian Chow-Daniel onships: seventh grade National girls, fifth grade National tional boys. Max Omick girls, eighth grade American boys, seventh grade Ameri- Steve Glascock 7th Grade American Boys 5th Grade National Boys Campolindo Co-Most Valuable Player Alex Mangels The fifth grade National boys finished the season unde- Jaison Kimura The Seventh grade American boys West Diablo League feated.. First Team Marco Tavecchio Champions finished with a 9-1 record. The boys went on Matt Reshke to play in the Oakland Diocese Championship game at St. Tim Coleman Bede's Parish. Second Team Nick Palano Sam Palano Kian Maghsoodnia Honorable Mention Harlan Raine Rodrigo Diaz-Valdes Cristian Antezana Girls’ Soccer Miramonte Most Valuable Player Meghan Reid First Team Mackenzie Martin Coco Pearce Second Team Sophie Fuller Jene Fesseden Coach Tim Jones and asst. Coach Jeff Kolsut Honorable Mention Ashley Kawaguchi Back Row (L to R): Sam Saracevic, Foster Jones, Tyler Li Hanna Schenone, Jared Kolsut, Cole Berzins, Thomas Hunt, Tehaney Mali William Glaser Acalanes First Team Schulyer Blee Front Row (L to R): Andrew McKendell, Connor Moses, Ryan Leamy, Sam Lauth Front Row: Josh Thuma, Reider Martinsen , Jordan Good- Second Team Anja Simonsen friend Photo Ray Berzins Annie Beliveau Back Row: Coach Jim Moses, Ben Middleton, Brendan Honorable Mention Kaitlin McGee Supple, Matt Vollman, Grant Young, Brian Maiken, Coach Melissa Cameron Robert McKendell 5th Grade American Boys - Erin Bishop Co-Champions with St. Mary's Campolindo Most Valuable Sophie Leksan 4th Grade National Boys St. Perpetua’s fifth grade A team (along with St. Mary's) Defensive Player First Team Valerie Margerum The fourth grade boys’ playoffs were dominated by St. were the West Diablo CYO Co-Champions of the American Victoria Rinquist Perpetua; all four playoff teams were from St. Perpetua. League this year. They also won the St. Bonaventure Tour- Kelly Hilk nament and the MVP Fall Tournament.. Second Team Emily Orwig Jessica Tuan Honorable Mention Jessica Reshke Eliza Pedder Shannon Stebler Wrestling Miramonte First Team Bryce Pummer (189) Honorable Mention Brian DeLuna (119) Acalanes Honorable Mention Sam Lindgren (160) Campolindo First Team David Furtado (112) Tom Flowers (135) Scott Dyer (215) Second Team Jackson Hagglund (103) Dan Ingersoll (119) Honorable Mention Alex Mirante (130) Front row (L to R): Nick Catalanello, Oscar Beckinger, Jack Wickline, Matthew Raffel Coaches not pictured are J. Torchio and Tim Regan. Back Submit Sports stories to Back row: Coach Paul Wickline, Alex Archer, Jackson Row (L to R): Isaac Plotkin, Ty Whelehan and Ryan Regan Kirke, Ricky Bianchina, Tristan Tzortzis, Ben Lauer, Coach Front Row: Justin Pratt, John Torchio, Robby Rowell, Jake [email protected] John Kirke Landry, Gabe Middleton and Seppi Ortman Photo April Raffel Photo Wendy Pratt Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: D1
Lafayette Teachers See t rRed over Pink Slips By Cathy Tyson Get a Real-Time Market Snapshot d of your neighborhood Alex Gailas at: www.lafayettehouseprices.com
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Photo C. Tyson Office: 925-254-7600 Cell: 925-788-0229 veryone knew it was coming. Due to notification require- formation on the education funding [email protected] EClassroom budget uncertainty ments all staff involved in both ca- reform effort, go to became very real for staff of the La- tegories will receive pink slips, as Groups.google.com, then enter: la- Search MLS at fayette School District and parents school officials prepare for dire fayette-for-education in the search AlexGailas.com last Wednesday night, when the budget cuts. State law requires dis- box. Governing Board approved the Pro- tricts to issue pink slips by March posed Budget Reduction Plan for 15. The recipient of a pink slip may 2011 - 2012. Although Superinten- or may not be laid off in the end. As dent Fred Brill held a number of the budget situation firms up over meetings to gather feedback and in- the summer, all will become clear. volve parents on funding priorities, Stanley Middle School’s audi- there is just not enough money to torium was packed with concerned keep all the teachers and programs teachers and parents, standing at currently offered. To make matters times; many parents wearing red in worse, because of revenue uncer- solidarity with teachers. Several tainties, the administration has to parents commented that they under- plan for a worse-case scenario that stood the difficult decisions, but :OLKWV\UKZVY[OL:OLK WV\U may or may not play out depending emphasized their common goal of on a number of factors: the passage the best education possible for stu- ZLUZPISLZ\Z[HPUHISL^H`ZLUZPISLZ\Z[H of Measure B, additional cuts from dents. Many reiterated their sup- Sacramento, and tax extensions ma- port for Measure B, and encouraged king it on the ballot. working together as a community. “No one wants to cut programs Jean Follmer, President of the that benefit children. Over the past Springhill Elementary Parent Fa- three years, the state has reduced culty Club, called the formula for funding by $1,089 per student, re- funding Lafayette’s schools inequi- sulting in a reduction of $3,403,125 table. She and a group of concer- million to the Lafayette School Dis- ned parents are pursuing real trict,” said Brill. “The district is reform in education funding. now facing a structural deficit of “Forty years ago, Lafayette was de- $2,240,000 for the 2011– 2012 signated a ‘low wealth school dis- school year.” trict’ because of our rural nature and Brill placed cuts into one of two small population. It was determi- groups, “Category One” cuts are ned that our small community had strongly recommended – the se- less of a need for services than an cond group, cuts to “Category II” urban community, so we received a present greater challenges and com- smaller amount of money per child plexities. Category One includes than those in larger towns and ci- reducing four full time elementary ties. Forty years later, we still re- teachers, eliminating student ser- ceive less money than the statewide vices support and reducing music in per child average revenue limit,” grades four and five, along with said Follmer. “We believe it is increasing health insurance co-pays completely unacceptable that this 9LHSMVVK9LHSTLKPJPUL9LHSYLZ\S[Z9LHSMVVK 9LHS T and adding four additional furlough district receives less than the state days to the existing two furlough minimum revenue limit and we days. Also included are increasing plan to pursue equalization relent- ..L[HQ\TWZ[HY[VUZ^PTZ\P[ZLHZVUL[H Q\TWZ[HY[ VU Z^PTZ\P[ ZLHZVU PE classes at Stanley to 53 students lessly.” VMM`V\YPUP[PHSL_HTHUKVMM`V\Y PUP[PHS L_HT HUK and eighth grade English class to 26 The group also wants to take on J JVTWYLOLUZP]LTL[HIVSPJHUHS`ZPZVTWYLOLUZP]L TL[HIVSPJ HUHS`ZPZ students, and reducing already-di- Proposition 13, which limits annual *HSS[VKH` 1<47:;(9;*HSS[VKH` 1<47:;;((9; minished custodial time. property taxes to 1.1% of the pur- Category II includes reducing chase price of a home, with mini- instructional aides, eliminating the mal annual adjustment. “Prop. 13 *VU]LUPLU[)H`(YLH3VJH[PVUZ^^^Q\TWZ[HY[TKJVT *VU]LUPLU[ )H` (YLH Kindergarten through fifth grade unduly impacts low-wealth districts ;OPZVMMLYJHUUV[ILJVTIPULK^P[OHU`V[OLYVMMLYHUKOHZUVJ;OPZ VMMLY JHUUV[ IL JVTIPULK ^P[O HU` V[OLY HZO]HS\L;OL KPZJV\U[PZSPTP[LK[VVULWLYWLYZVUHUKVU S`HWWSPJHISL[V[OL5L^7H[PLU[0UP[PHS=PZP[ =PZP[ science lab, eliminating instrumen- like ours due to the disparity be- tal music for first through fifth tween paying taxes on a $60,000 grade, partially reducing Stanley home purchased forty years ago counseling staff, eliminating the versus a $1.5 million home purcha- district Tech administrator, further sed today,” said Follmer. reducing custodial services and For more information on the maintenance and eliminating the Lafayette School District, go to Kinder music program. www.lafsd.k12.ca.us, for more in-
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Up To 5WE DO New "Carrier" System READY DITS! SOLAR SYSTEMS, TOO $ Free Estimates on Installations - MS FURNACE MAINTENANCE ly. Call for details Coupon Expires 3/31/11 2,425 OFF Call for Details 10% Discount on Repairs - www.ACSystemsInc.com Coupon Expires 3/31/11 License# 632329 SERVING LAMORINDA FOR 40 YEARS (925) 676-2103 Two New Lamorinda Businesses are Keeping Things All in the Family By Sophie Braccini served that day. But according to Vi- after the turmoil she had witnessed. gether,” says Zahra, “We’ve had vian Erez, the meat dishes are the spe- But one of her five sisters moved to many struggles and adventures, and cialties that will set them apart the Bay Area and enticed Zahra to they’ve made us stronger.” Now they because she gets her spices directly join her. “It was a real culture shock are combining the mother’s long time from Israel. “We are serving some- for me,” remembers Shila, who was passion and practice of hair and skin thing unique here,” she says, with the 13 at the time. “It was nice to be re- care with her daughter’s professional confidence of a professional cook. united with some of my family,” adds experience in the fashion world. The meat dishes are served as entrees Zahra, “we had been very close grow- Zahra works her magic towards or sandwiches, and include chicken, ing up. We were always doing each the rear of the shop with hair color, lamb, mergez and seafood versions. other’s hair and make-up, so it was make-up, facials, and the ancient Open until midnight several natural for me to move in that direc- method of thread facial hair removal. nights a week and close to the New tion for my career.” Zahra opened a Shila presides over the front area, Rheem Theatre, Shish Kabab Show is beauty salon in El Sobrante that pros- where she offers ‘shabby chic’ cloth- poised to change the Rheem Center. pered for over 15 years. ing that she says brings out her Euro- At the back of the restaurant stands a In the meantime, Shila was grow- pean side. “When people come here lonely microphone on a small stage. ing up and spending all her spare time it is to be beautified while staying Is that for the ‘Show’? “We have a sketching and making dresses. After comfortable,” says Shila. The Erez family in their new restaurant; from left, Roy, Karin, Mikki, Vivian, few surprises coming up!” replied high school, she studied at the Fash- with younger son Michael in front Photo Sophie Braccini Erez. ion Institute (FDIM) in San Francisco Lamorinda Weekly business articles are intended to inform the community about and worked in pattern-making and Shish Kabab Show restaurant, using family recipes and local business activities, not to endorse a Zahra Boutique Salon sketching. particular company, product or service. 376 Park Street, Moraga (in the savoir-faire. “This is not only a 3578 Mt Diablo Blvd, Lafayette “We’ve learned a lot of things to- Rheem Center), 388-0351, restaurant, this is a place for people to 284-3031, www.letseat.at/ShishKababShow come together,” says Mikki Erez www.zahraboutiquesalon.com Mikki and Vivian Erez moved to adding that they have kept their prices When she was 21-years-old and Moraga from Orinda a year ago. low to attract students as well. mother of a three-year-old daughter They have three children, one in ele- On the day this reporter visited, named Shila, Zahra Pasti decided to mentary school, one in middle school, the salads and vegetable dishes were flee the Iranian Islamic revolution and and one in high school. And they are being taste-tested. Tables were cov- landed in Denmark. After 30 years of all working in the new family restau- ered with a wide variety of dishes of travel and hard work, Shila Dorrani- rant, Shish Kabab Show. “This is a all colors, aromas and textures. Unal and her mother Zahra just family affair,” says Karin, the middle Everything was fresh, delicious and opened a new shop in Lafayette, daughter, “I’m really looking forward tasted homemade. The tahini was Zahra Boutique Salon, across the to working here; this is a great envi- smooth and delicate, scooped with street from Postino on Mount Diablo ronment to be all together.” just baked pita bread; the hummus Boulevard. The concept is total The Erez’s moved to this country had more texture and was flavorful; beauty, from hair, to skin, to clothing; from their native Israel 12 years ago, the dolmas were mouthwatering; the even some vintage objects for the leaving behind a successful restaurant falafels crunchy on the outside and home. and a summer camp program. Now tender inside; the salads were crisp, Zahra remained in Denmark for they are getting back to doing what with herbs adding flavor. The meats – kababs and shawarmas – were not many years, where she enjoyed peace Zahra (front) with daughter Shila and younger daughter Sheva (standing) they love to do together – creating a who sometimes helps in the store Photo Sophie Braccini
must be on a DVD. Please contact the Lafayette Chamber of Conference Room. business briefs Commerce for submission instructions, 284-7404. • 2011 Citizen of the Year Dinner Honoring Karen Mul- vaney, Friday, March 25. Karen Mulvaney has been picked J. Rockcliff Realtors “Office of the Year” as the 2011 Citizen of the Year. Anyone who has worked on Garden Tour for Tech Trek Scholarship 89 Davis Road, Suite 100, Orinda; (925) 253-7000 a school parcel tax, the library of the many projects Karen has John Montgomery Landscape Architects is sponsoring "Life 3799 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Suite 100, Lafayette; worked on, knows that she gives it her "all." Karen will be in the Lafayette Garden" on Saturday, May 14. Proceeds from (925) 385-2330 honored on Friday, March 25th with a dinner at the Lafayette ticket sales will benefit the Tech Trek scholarship program J. Rockcliff Realtors announced on March 10 that its “Office Park Hotel & Spa. Reservations are required, the form is avail- sponsored by the Lamorinda branch of the American Associ- of the Year” award will go to the company’s Orinda and able on the Chamber’s web site, www.lafayettechamber.org. ation of University Women (AAUW-OML). Montgomery Lafayette branches which are viewed as, and function as, one will be present to answer questions on the tour of five select united Lamorinda office. The annual award recognizes out- Moraga Lafayette gardens. He believes “a landscape is much more standing achievement in year-over-year growth in production, Chamber general meeting, Friday, March 25, 7:30-9am at the than just shrubs, trees, and a patio. It has the power to rejuve- recruitment and overall performance. “Our Orinda/Lafayette Hacienda, 2100 Donald Drive. Roos' muffins and coffee will nate, inspire, and relax." Presentations will include an outdoor office has positioned itself at the vanguard of industry expert- be served. Mary Coe, Renee Zeimer and Rich Larsen, the cooking demonstration, urban farming demonstration, light re- ise, leadership and community involvement,” said Jeff Sposito, Moraga Economic Development Team, will be the guest freshments, and live music. The tour will be held from 11:00 president of J. Rockcliff Realtors. “Between the two branch speakers. They plan a large outreach effort to the Moraga busi- a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Tech Trek is a week-long summer program locations, there are not only some of the most respected and ness community. for junior high school girls. The camp inspires young women successful Realtors in the area, but in the nation. They are in- to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, or dustry leaders. They are community leaders. They are com- Orinda math. The proceeds from this fundraiser will provide girls in- passionate, involved, engaged and focused and serve as First Annual State of the City Address and Special Recognition terested in math and science with scholarships to attend the excellent examples to their peers. It is an honor for me to con- Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, April 20, starting at noon in Grace Hopper Tech Trek camp on the Stanford University gratulate them for being named our company’s office of the the Orinda Community Center, 26 Orinda Way, Orinda. The campus. Tickets are $25 each. For more information, call year and I look forward to rewarding their sustained accom- event is hosted by Rotary Club of Orinda and Orinda Chamber AAUW member Pat at (925) 376-5155 or visit www. plishments in the future.” of Commerce. It will recognize Julian Juricevic’s Orinda Taxi www.aauwoml.org/TechTrek.html. as Best Small Business in Orinda. The State of the Town Ad- News from the three Chambers of Commerce dress will be given by Mayor Victoria Smith. The Chamber Tri-Chamber Meeting – Make Your Movie Lafayette will also give Special Recognition Awards to Sally Hogarty, Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda will hold a Tri Chamber Mixer • Entrepreneur’s Club, March 17, 8:30-9:30am in Editor of the Orinda News and columnist Valerie Hotz. RSVP at The New Rheem Theatre, 350 Park Ave, Moraga, on Tues- the Lafayette Chamber Conference Room. required by April 15. Tickets are $20.00 per person - to pur- day, April 26. Since the meeting will be in a movie theater, • Coffee with the Mayor, March 18, 8-9am in chase tickets go to the Chamber’s web site at the Chambers are asking residents to shoot a video (three min- the Lafayette Chamber Conference Room. www.orindachamber.org/events.htm#AwardsDinner. utes or less in length) or create a PowerPoint presentation or • Green Committee Open Meeting, March 22, noon-1pm slide show about how much they love their town/city. “I in the Lafayette Chamber Conference Room. thought, we are in a theater and we are all proud of our city – • Ribbon Cutting at Posh Boutique, March 24, 5-6pm. If you have a business brief to share, please contact and hey, let’s have some fun,” said Lafayette Chamber Exec- 3416 Mt. Diablo Blvd. (925) 962-9691. Sophie Braccini at [email protected] utive Director Jay Lifson. Winners from each community will • Business Issues/Government Affairs Committee Open or call the office 925-377-0977 be shown on the big screen and win prizes. All submissions Meeting, March 25, 8-9am in the Lafayette Chamber Lamorinda Weekly www.Lamorindaweekly.com is an independent publication, produced by and for the residents of Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda, CA We’re a community newspaper, and we wel- Staff Writers: Most Frequently Viewed Stories From Our Last Issue: come your input: Sophie Braccini; [email protected] Letters to the editor (max 350 words): Cathy Tyson; [email protected] • Bonfire Pizzeria Heats Ups Orinda [email protected] Andrea A. Firth; [email protected] • Campolindo Soccer Wins NCS Championship Sport events/stories/pictures: Sports Editor: Caitlin Graveson [email protected] Contributing Writers: • LYNN’S TOP FIVE New Estate Tax Laws: Art, theater, community events: Dean Okamura, Cynthia Brian, Conrad Bassett, What You Need to Know NOW! [email protected] Susie Iventosch, Moya Stone, Rosylyn Aragones • One Man Flower Crew Makes Mark in Happy Valley Business news or business press releases: Stenzel, Lucy Amaral, Alex Crook,, Bryant West, • Moraga Bulls Support Our Troops [email protected] Cathy Dausman • Digging Deep with Cynthia Brian Seeds of Change School stories/events: Photos:Tod Fierner, Doug Kohen, Jordan Fong, [email protected] Ohlen Alexander • Proposed Mixed-Use Project Gets Encouraging General interest stories: Circulation: 25,200 printed copies; delivered to Feedback [email protected] homes & businesses in Lamorinda. • Got Fish? The Rez Does Publishers/Owners: Andy and Wendy Scheck; Layout/Graphics: Andy Scheck, Jonas Scheck, • Moraga Police Blotter [email protected] Amanda Griggs. Printed in CA. [email protected] • Moraga School District Finances Going from Lamorinda Weekly, Bad to Worse Editor: Lee Borrowman; P.O. Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570-6133 [email protected] Advertising: Phone: 925-377-0977; Wendy Wuerth-Scheck; 925-377-0977, Fax: 1-800-690-8136; If you wish to view any of the stories above go to [email protected] email: [email protected] www.lamorindaweekly.com and click the link below the story. Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: D3 jtÜx Wxá|zÇá Y|Çx ]xãxÄÜç á|Çvx DLJJ MORAGA VALLEY POOL 3645 Mt. Diablo Blvd., • 25 yd long, six lane swimming pool with diving Lafayette between Trader Joes & the Post Office board and shallow play area 283-2988 • Baby pool with seating and umbrellas New Location www.waredesigns.com • Summer rec swim team, the “Marlins” 50% off • Year-round tennis program, led by pro Scott Watch Battery EST. 1958 Now $5, Reg $10 Borowiak, on four courts (two lighted) 1 watch battery per person. Exp. 3/31/11. Tuesday-Saturday 10-6 Usually installed while you wait. W/coupon. Restrictions apply. Email [email protected] for more info. Women of the Year By Cathy Tyson launched the successful after d school tutoring program there. d She served on the Governing Board of the Lafayette School District and presided as President during the creation of their strate- gic plan and helped streamline foundation support to increase resources for students. Continu- ing her support of youth, she t helped develop a Wellness Com- mittee to focus on student stress, nutrition and character. Finally, she’s a Trustee of Youth Homes which serves abused and neg- lected children. Amy Worth of Orinda was the driving force behind the con- gestion-relieving Caldecott Tun- nel Fourth Bore Project. She has spent thirteen years serving as an Local Winners of the Woman of the Year – Edy Schwartz, Assemblymember Skinner and Ann Appert. unpaid Orinda City Council Amy Worth was unable to attend. Photo courtesy Clayton J. Mitchell Member. She was a key sup- hree women from Lamor- Skinner's district at the second College and the town. porter of the construction of the Tinda, who have gone above annual Woman of the Year event. Ann Appert is the Woman of new Orinda Library along with and beyond the call of duty, were Assemblymember Skinner ex- the Year from Lafayette. She parcel tax measures that keep the recently honored by Assembly- emplifies what can be achieved was the co-leader of the cam- Library open sixty hours per member Nancy Skinner who when we work hard and commit paign to build the Lafayette Li- week. praised their contributions to ourselves to those things we brary and Learning Center, and their respective communities. value," said Edy Schwartz of Although there are winners from Moraga. She has been President each of the Assembly District 14 of the Moraga Chamber of Com- cities, which include Albany, merce for the past three years, Berkeley, Richmond, Pleasant and was instrumental in saving Hill and beyond, only the local the Rheem Theatre. In addition winners are listed below. she’s been an active volunteer for "It was an honor to be in- more than thirty years and has cluded with the thirteen other worked hard to cultivate a deeper women from Assemblymember relationship between St. Mary’s Drama, Laughter, Music— Town Hall Theatre Does It All family owned since 1933 dBy Andrea A. Firth own Hall Theatre Company for Grateful Dead keyboardist Tof Lafayette is often touted Brent Mydland, who lived in as the oldest, continuously active Lafayette until his death in 1990. theater in Contra Costa County. Following the success of that That is true, but it doesn’t mean concert, Stack joined the THT that an old theater can’t learn Board, and the music series was new tricks. Over the past year launched. The musical groups and half, in addition to the main featured so far have been cover stage dramatic productions, band acts, which Stack acknowl- Town Hall Theatre Company edges makes the music accessi- t(THT) has branched out to host a ble, but he hopes to soon add comedy series and a music series up-and-coming local bands to the featuring prominent Bay Area mix. “No bridge, no tunnel, no BIG BAND BALL ROOM DANCE acts. “We wanted to add some freeway—that’s our tagline,” variety,” says THT’s Artistic Di- says Stack. “We want to make rector Clive Worsley, “Part of the this a local music scene.” Rheem Theatre idea behind these new entertain- THT still remains grounded ment options is to get people in in its dramatic roots. The fourth 350 Park Street, Moraga rthe door to experience this great and final main stage production venue, people who would not of the 2010-2011 season will be Come swing with your friends and neighbors-or just listen! normally come to Town Hall.” Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, There will be a no-host bar open throughout the evening. r Later this month the comedy which will run throughout June. series will feature two improv It has been a while since THT Pgroups battling for audience has performed the Bard; Wors- laughs in a comedy competition ley, who has a decade-long rela- coined the Comedy Smackdown. tionship with Cal Shakes, and the The San Francisco-based improv play’s director, Soren Oliver, troupe Crisis Hopkins, which in- have been planning a perform- cludes THT’s Technical Director ance of this comedy for years. Chris Hayes, will take on the in- “Twelfth Night is known as the ternationally famous group Com- perfect comedy,” says Worsley, Now offering: edySportz to see who gets the “It’s a delightful play and a great last and loudest laughs. way to bring Shakespeare to our FREE Then in May, THT will have community.” the hugely popular Beatles Trib- “Our focus is to reach our Dance ute band, The Sun Kings, per- neighbors,” says Worsley, and he Lessons forming. The Sun Kings kicked believes drama, laughter, and off the music concert series last music are all great ways to spring and are expected to once achieve this goal. “People love again play to a sell out crowd. this venue, and it works well for Friday, April 8th The music series is the brain- a variety of events. This is an ex- child of Lafayette resident Tom tension of our mission to serve as Doors Open at 7PM for Dance Lessons by Gail Enright Stack. After working with and a social and cultural gathering for Grateful Dead Productions place for the community.” Dance begins at 8PM through 10PM for twenty years, Stack had re- tired from the industry to the Next up in THT’s Comedy Other Dates $ more sedate life of the Lamor- and Music Series Tickets 10 per person inda suburbs, but he missed see- • Friday, May 6th Comedy Smackdown available at the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce ing and hearing great live music. Saturday, March 26th, 8:00 pm (Veterans Memorial) “We have 185 acoustically- Call 284-7404 for reservations perfect seats in a local, easily ac- The Sun Kings • Friday , Oct 14th cessible theater,” says Stack, Saturday, May 7th, 7:00 pm (Veterans Memorial) www.lafayettechamber.org “We have what it takes to make Tickets available for both it easy to see cool, live music” In events at www.thtc.org or Sponsored by Kaiser Permanente Senior Advantage, 2007, he coordinated a wildly by calling (925) 283-1557. Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, Generations In Jazz Foundation, successful tribute concert at THT City of Lafayette and Parks and Recreation and Lamorinda Weekly Page: D4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Spring into Health Bay Area Psychotherapy Training Institute • Lose Weight • Lower Cholesterol • Reduce Stress Providing affordable counseling for the East Bay Psychotherapy for Adults, Adolescents, Children, Insurance Couples, Families, and Groups Plans For more information or to make an appointment, please call (925) 2842298 Accepted 283-WELL (9355) 3468 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Suite B201, Lafayette, CA 94549 251 Lafayette Circle #240, Lafayette www.bapti.org True Grit in Lamorinda By Sophie Braccini director suffered a massive stroke not know anyone in this area with Gerry Starr does not want in his right brain while on busi- the same condition.” Kenney be- crowds to come and cheer for him ness travel in Detroit. The father lieves she owes the fact that she on March 26th as he walks the of two college students and step- was finally diagnosed at all to the Twilight 5K around Lake Merritt. father of two teenage boys spent persistence of her Orinda practi- His challenge is personal. Starr month in intensive care in Michi- tioner, Dr. Mark Reginato. “It can has many obstacles to overcome gan and the Bay Area, and then take some people up to 10 years to before he reaches his goal of self- embarked on the day-to-day rig- get a correct diagnosis,” she says, reliance. His next goal is to find ors of endless physical and mental “but Dr. Reginato never gave up a job or volunteer position. “I am therapy. Since he decided to pre- and insisted on getting tests done a marketing specialist and feel I pare for the Oakland race, his pace until we found out what I had.” have a lot to contribute,” says has increased from a one and a Kenney receives care from the Starr. half miles in an hour at the begin- treatment center nearest to Lam- Gigi’s cause has many sup- ning of February to two miles an orinda, which is in Orange porters. “The businesses in Orinda hour a few weeks later. County. Still in a grieving period, have been very supportive,” says Right after his stroke, Starr she is caught between denial and her mother, “Republic of Cake could not sit in his bed or eat trying to act “normal,” and facing and Canetti’s Bookshop con- alone; now, although his left side the reality of the condition that tributed immediately.” There are is still seriously impacted, he can has shattered her life. “I used to two websites on which you can walk with a cane and works daily be a radio host in Mexico, and find out more information about to get back the motor skills in his then I had my own Spanish teach- Gigi’s run: left arm. “Two thirds of Gerry’s ing school, Mariposa,” she says, www.dmrfevents.org/event.php?4 right brain was affected,” says “I do not know what I will be able 07450, for the Dystonia Medical Starr’s wife Kim, “doctors told me to do in the future.” She takes Research Foundation; and Team Gigi Kenney at the Lafayette Reservoir with Yannett Kenney (right) and that he would never be able to great pride and strength in the de- Bentley can be found at teambent- Alex Martin Photo Sophie Braccini walk again and that the best solu- termination of her daughter. ley.dojiggy.com/. tion was to put him in a nursing ix-year-old Gigi (Angelina) affect a single muscle, a group of home.” SKenney runs for her mother. muscle, or the entire body. Ken- The family fought to get him 54-year-old Gerald Starr walks to ney went from doctor to doctor for admitted to a rehabilitation center. get his life back. Each of these a year before someone finally di- His initial prognosis was not good Lamorinda residents is engaging agnosed the rare disease that was there, either. After weeks of hard in a battle against adversity, push- debilitating her. work, one of the doctors said be- ing their limits and finding the “What would you do if you fore releasing Starr, “I’m so happy strength to continue to fight. By get cured?” continued the child. when I get to be wrong.” pure coincidence, they will both “I would walk the Reservoir “I’m incredibly lucky to be be part of the Twilight 5K at the again,” said Kenney, who used to alive,” Starr says, “I enjoy a sunny Oakland Running Festival on take her daughter there but now day, going to the movies or eating March 26th. uses a walker to move around. So in a restaurant. It’s much better “When are you going to get Gigi made a decision – she is than being dead, and I try not to better?” Gigi asked her young training twice a week at the think about how it used to be.” mother, Yannett Kenney, a few Lafayette Reservoir after school Starr says the support of his wife months ago. Unfortunately, there with her nanny and coach Alex and family has been crucial to his is no answer to that question. Martin, to run during the Twilight recovery. Kenney was diagnosed a year ago 5K and raise money for dystonia Yannett Kenney feels some- with dystonia, a neurological research and for her school, Bent- what isolated, suffering from an movement disorder in which sus- ley. orphan disease that most people tained muscle contractions cause Across town, at Acalanes do not understand. “The disease is twisting and repetitive move- High School, Gerry Starr walks not degenerative, but it has no ments or abnormal postures. The on the track every Saturday after- known cure,” says Kenney, “I movements, which are involun- noon. It’s been three years now have been accused of simulating tary and sometimes painful, may since the engineer and marketing or even of being crazy, and I do Gerry Starr walking at the Acalanes track Photo Sophie Braccini
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Greg Thomas in his velomobile Photos Cathy Dausman ook, up ahead! Is it a kayak? drive defensively.“ a contingent of North American LIs it a plane? Is it a banana? An Orinda resident and Cal riders. Thomas explains his com- No, it’s Greg Thomas in his yel- Berkeley graduate, Thomas is a mitment to ride on the ROAM low velomobile! A velomobile is Senior Project Manager for Amer- (http://www.rolloveramerica.eu/ ) a three-wheeled recumbent bike ican Mechanical. He was a col- website: “Roll Over America will (two-wheel steering in front) cov- lege gymnast and has done “lots be an opportunity [to] challenge ered in a fiberglass shell. Thomas of paragliding and kite surfing.” myself to attempt my dream of currently rides a Dutch built His interest in recumbent bikes Mango Sport model, which dates to the late 1990’s. He first weighs 65 lbs and is 8 feet long. rode recumbents in 2001, and Coming Soon! Human Powered Vehicles, or switched to riding a velomobile in HPVs, are still fairly new in the 2008. He commuted on his first U.S. Thomas estimates there are model for a year before buying the only a dozen such vehicles scat- Mango Sport. tered across the Bay Area. Velo- Thomas participated in the mobiles (velo rhymes with Portland, Oregon, Left Coast yellow) are quite common in Eu- Velomobile gathering in May, rope, even in the colder climates. 2010 and joined the Niagara, They can be fitted with a kayak- Canada Velomobile Happening like neoprene “skirt“ and bubble last September on a borrowed top windscreen to keep the driver velomobile. His most challenging warm. They have electric lights ride to date will no doubt be his and a bell and/or horn. Some are participation in this summer’s fitted with a small electric motor Roll Over America (ROAM) ad- California Craftsman, 4bedroom, 2.5 bath on 1/2 acre backing to open space. to assist on uphill climbs. Velo- venture. Fabulous interior remodel. Walk to top Moraga Schools. mobile drivers can easily maintain In late July, Thomas and four a 20-30 mile per hour pace on flat dozen velomobile riders will Call Lily of Lamorinda for private showing pavement, keeping pace with res- gather in Portland, Oregon and idential street traffic, but Thomas pedal across country to Washing- Lily Wescott ]A eÉv~vÄ|yy is careful to observe the 15 mph ton, D.C. to raise awareness for upper limit on local bike trails. “I this eco-friendly transportation. 925.330.6103 Realtors try to be a good trail user,“ he Riders from Germany, the Nether- www.LamorindaHome.com • [email protected] License # 01368005 says, but “as with any bike you lands, Austria, and Italy will join • Comfortable, Convenient “Nothingg Family and ““NothingN“Nothingothin makes meme Cosmetic Dentistry makesmmakesakes me me happier tthanhan • Certified in Full Mouth happierhahappierppier than than to see Reconstruction tototo ssee eseee you smile!”ile!” youyoyouu smile!”s msmile!”
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High Standards at High Acalanes Design Students Win State Contest School Newspapers Submitted by Susan Lane By Lou Fancher echnology savvy students commentary from readers. most often, it’s through Facebook, Tand intense editorial stan- This year’s Blueprint editors Twitter, and GMail. dards make Lamorinda High picked their coverage of Title IX at In closing, the editors said: School newspapers high quality, Cal and the cost of sports at “This class is unique compared hyper-current, and hip, to use an Acalanes in recent articles as their to other classes because it offers old-fashioned phrase. greatest source of pride. “These students a lot of freedom and an
Although articles about life on have all been large stories with opportunity to learn in a hands-on G y r e r e u campus form the bulk of their cov- high-end sources and topics rele- way. The atmosphere is very re- t n i n n e erage, all three papers—Acalanes’ vant to the student body,” they said. laxed and casual, and we have a lot g C t t h 1s Blueprint, Campolindo’s La Invited to share a closing com- of fun.” e 2 21s he Puma, and Miramonte’s Mi- ment after responding to formatted The Mirador t District in t rador—aren’t afraid to tackle com- questions, Blueprint editors said: Hannah Tennant and Brian munity stories. In the past year, “As cliché as it is, staff mem- Friel were selected through an ap- downtown planning in Orinda, bers can really do as much as they plication and interview process University of California at Berke- want; the only limit to how much similar to the one at La Puma. The John Kintner Graphic provided ley’s Title IX issues and a rash of they can do is themselves. For ex- final issue of last year was a tran- burglaries in Moraga, all received ample, we've had people interview sitional one, where Tennant and the papers’ attention. 'N SYNC and United States sena- Friel were trained into their posi- The three publications have tors, walk inside the Giants' tions. many things in common, espe- dugout at AT&T Park, and attend The Miramonte paper is pub- cially their use of new technolo- a roundtable discussion with direc- lished approximately once a gies like video, Facebook, and tor Gore Verbinski and actress month, with seven total issues. Twitter. Here is a profile of each Abigail Breslin. Blueprint is com- The editors rely on section editors paper. mitted to reporting accurate news to question facts and request clar- The Blueprint and practicing quality journalism, ifications from their writers. GreeningGreeningningg thehe 21st2 1st DistrictDisttrict in thehe 21st212 st CCenturyentury The Acalanes editors are tech- and the workload can be quite de- California Scholastic Journal- nically determined by an advisor, manding, but it's an incredibly re- ism Standards learned in their but class votes and student editors warding experience.” journalism classes set the bound- influence the final assignments. La Puma aries. Helen Kim Graphic provided There are eight issues per year and Applications for editorial posi- “We conduct ourselves as a le- calanes students Helen Kim and John Kintner recently won the Califor- fact checking is primarily the re- tions are accepted at the end of gitimate paper, and we print any- Ania State Senate Logo design contest for “Greening the 21st century.” sponsibility of the writers. each year at Campolindo. The cur- thing as long as it is not libelous,” State Senator Carol Liu will personally present the students with their awards. Editors Nicole Lee, Emily rent editor in chief and faculty ad- the editors said. Ellsworth and Sam Cheng said visor review and interview the Last year, Mirador staff at- that the use of secondhand sources applicants. tended the NSPA Journalism Con- St. Perpetua School is discouraged and “any claims An issue is produced each vention in Washington, D.C., made in the story must be backed month and Tori Shepard and Vic- which triggered the addition of an Celebrates Literacy up by an interview or another reli- toria Garrity, 2010-11‘s La Puma online website and editorial over- Submitted by Monica Chappell able source.” editors, ask for 2 drafts before the seers assigned to the site. Subject matter is wide open at final copy is submitted, to “try to An editorial on Boy’s Water the Blueprint. Editors in Chief have be as accurate as possible.” Polo received the collective nod the final say and, in an email reply, La Puma allows a staff advisor from editorial staff as the most im- they clarify the point, noting, “No and the school administration to portant story this year. subjects are off limits. We have control the content: crude jokes, “[The article] focused on the published stories on sexting, mari- criticism of school administration pressure that we are placed under juana, fake IDs, and meth.” and topics not focused on school here at Miramonte. It exposed the The biggest changes at the or community are off limits. unrealistic expectations we are Blueprint are due to the passage of Their new advisor introduced held to by coaches and teachers. Measure A. layout and design changes this The writer argued that we can “Our district has been dealing year, which Shepard called “influ- learn from our failures,” explained with budget cut issues,” wrote the ential.” Like their larger counter- the editors. editors, “and there was a chance parts in the professional field of Mirador editors emphasized a that our newspaper wouldn't sur- journalism, the paper also had to final, important aspect of working vive. We attended district board cut back the number of pages to on a high school newspaper with Mayor Carl Anduri Photo Karen Goodshaw meetings to argue for journalism at save money. their last words: uring the first week of March, ter and enjoyed delicious homemade Acalanes. Fortunately, the meas- At La Puma, student surveys “Twice a month we meet from DSt. Perpetua School was trans- Cat in the Hat cookies, guest readers, ure passed and Blueprint lives on.” on the Opinion page and a satirical 6-9 pm to work on the paper. We formed in honor of Dr. Seuss' birth- including Lafayette’s Mayor Carl An- The Arts section and contro- back page draw the most reader re- call these nights Mirador Nights, day. Classroom doors were decorated duri, visited the school to read to the versial stories are most popular. sponse. The feedback can come in and we have a pair bring food. It’s to reflect favorite books, students classes, and time was set aside for a The Opinion page draws the most the form of letters to the editor, but always fun!” dressed as their favorite book charac- school-wide reading period. Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: D7 Tired of Fighting the Crowds? CARPET CLEANING Try Star Pilates in Moraga: 20 days for $20 LAMORINDA'S FAVORITE Quiet studio. Private or group classes. Everything you need to FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS FOR OVER 36 YEARS workout, including the best Cardio Equipment, Spin, Pi- lates, Zumba, Ballet and Weight Classes. 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Acalanes High School | Bentley School | Burton Valley | Camino Lafayette Elementary | Los Perales | Miramonte | Orinda Academy Pablo | Campolindo | Contra Costa Jewish Day School | Del Rey Orinda Intermediate | Saklan Valley School | Sleepy Hollow Donald L. Rheem | Glorietta | Happy Valley | Joaquin Moraga Lamorinda Schools Springhill | Stanley Middle | St. Perpetua School | Wagner Ranch
Waste-Less Lunch at School Calendar
Acalanes Union Orinda Union School District Springhill a Big Success High School District OUSD Office Board Room AUHSD Office 8 Altarinda Road, Orinda By Sophie Braccini 1212 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lafayette Monday, April 4, 4pm campaign last month, with Jodi Next: Wednesday, March 23, 7:30pm Consoli, Meg McAdam, Sarah Moraga School District David, and Heidi Rahlmann Lafayette School District Joaquin Moraga Intermediate Plumb. LAFSD Office School Auditorium “We were wondering how to 3477 School Street, Lafayette 1010 Camino Pablo, Moraga get the word out to parents,” re- Wednesday, April 13, 7pm Tuesday, April 12, at 7:30pm members Heffernan, “then I pro- posed to wear five days worth of Wait-Listed at the trash on my hat as I do traffic calming for parent drop-off in the morning.” A creative spirit, the University of California? young mother invents visual By Elizabeth LaScala, PhD props to make her point. She olleges build waiting lists to en- who submit their SIR by the deadline built a children’s book, “The Csure that they have full fresh- will be considered on time for hous- Great Cowpoop Debacle,” out of man classes. Since not all accepted ing and orientation scheduling pur- recycled material to teach her students will choose to enroll, these poses. kids about wastefulness, and lists allow colleges to reach out to stu- • Wait-listed freshman applicants when it came to finding a way to dents they would like to accept but do will be notified of their status no later direct traffic and de-stress parents not have the space to enroll. This sys- than June 1; wait-listed transfer appli- at drop-off time, Heffernan vol- tem is hard on students because the cants will be notified by July 1st. unteered to do it twice a week, school is not sending a clear message Key difference in waitlist status be- wearing a dress-up hat. “The regarding an offer of admission. tween UC and private colleges funny hat broke the ice a little bit Some students describe it as being “in There are key differences be- and it became iconic at school,” a state of limbo.” While students and tween being placed on the waitlist at says Heffernan, who has done it their parents are accustomed to wait- a private college versus the UC. Gael steadily for two years, “so the listing at private schools, most are sur- Casner, founder of College Find in idea of wearing the week’s lunch prised to learn that the University of Marin County, sums it up well: “The trash on a hat seemed natural. I California also uses waitlists. main difference has to do with the didn’t want to offend anybody, The waitlist as an enrollment amount of control you have over the just draw attention to how much strategy process. At a private college, you can is wasted at lunch time.” Pretty UC currently enrolls more than continue to add important information Nanette Heffernan wears a week’s worth of lunch trash. Photo S. Braccini soon, the hat was too small and 11,500 students for whom it receives to your application, write or call to she had to build a whole outfit. no state funding. A waitlist is an en- show your continued interest and gen- pringhill Elementary School tive, but it highlighted the sad re- “At one point (during the sci- rollment management tool that helps erally assure the college that it is your in Lafayette is effecting ality of buckets-full of non-recy- S ence fair) I noticed a woman campuses reach their enrollment tar- first choice school.” If you are wait- change. Since the Waste-Less- clable trash dumped by kids each standing off to the side just star- gets and budget objectives. This is es- listed at the UC, you can do little but Lunch campaign was launched in day at school. ing at me,” Heffernan said after pecially important during tough wait, and that can be unnerving for February, the school’s Green “I’m all for it,” said the fair, “I approached her to say economic times when the university students and their families. Team reports that the weight of Springhill’s Principal Bruce Wod- ‘hi’ and noticed she had tears in is dealing with recent and planned Consider Your Options non-recyclable waste has been cut hams, “It is tough to change our her eyes. I asked her if she was state budget cuts. In the fall 2010 ad- It is important to focus on the by 55%. One of the high points wasteful mentality, but the kids okay and she said, ‘You’re wear- missions cycle, the UC used waitlists schools that accepted you without of the campaign was the school’s have been getting it and the ing my son’s garbage. I know be- at many campuses for the first time reservation. If you have received ad- science fair on March 2nd, where school has won the $2,000 cause I see his name on one of and announced plans to do so again in mission offers from one or more UC Nanette Heffernan appeared in a County Waste Buster Award. Our the bags. I can’t believe what I’ve fall 2011. All campuses, except Los campuses, out-of- state public and/or head-to-toe outfit she made out of students are very good about re- been doing all these years. I Angeles and Merced, plan to use private colleges consider these oppor- sanitized plastic trash from the cycling and some of the parents never really thought about it be- waitlists for their freshman applicant tunities carefully—this time from the previous week’s school lunch are very enthusiastic.” Heffernan fore.’ Wow! That, right there, was pools. Davis and San Diego also fresh perspective of an admitted appli- waste. She was a real kid-mag- is definitely one of these enthusi- the point of the entire effort. Af- have a transfer waitlist, and Irvine and cant. These colleges want you and in- nate at the fair. The multicolor, astic parents. She is part of the fecting even one parent made it Santa Cruz are considering the option dicated their interest with firm offers twirling costume attached with Springhill Green Team that all worth it,” concluded Heffer- for transfers. of admission. Ultimately, being a UC safety pins was undeniably attrac- launched the waste-less lunch nan. How many students are accepted wait-listed applicant may not prove as from the waitlist? satisfying to you as accepting an offer Fruit Trees the Future at Los Perales This enrollment strategy was first of admission from a college that was used in fall 2010, so we only have ac- attractive enough to make it to your By Cathy Dausman cess to those numbers. Just two cam- college list in the first place. Knowing puses—UC Davis and UC Santa what college you will be attending in Barbara—admitted significant num- the fall will allow you the freedom to bers of students from their waitlists. move forward, make definitive col- Their final freshman classes included lege plans and enjoy the remainder of more than 40% of students admitted your senior year. off the waitlist. What our students need to know • Students may receive waitlist of- fers from more than one campus. Students may accept as many offers as they wish. Waitlist offers will be made by the end of March for fresh- man applicants and the end of April for transfers. • Once students are offered a spot on a waitlist, they must opt in or lose this opportunity. Instructions for opt- ing in will be included with the wait- Elizabeth LaScala Ph.D. guides high school and transfer students through list notification. the complex world of college • Even if students accept a waitlist admissions. She develops best match offer (or several), students should college lists, offers personalized essay submit a Statement of Intent to Reg- coaching to produce thoughtful, ister (SIR) by the stated deadline to a unique responses and tools and UC campus (or other college or uni- strategies to tackle each step of the versity to which they have been ac- admissions timelines with confidence and success. Elizabeth advises cepted). If they later accept an offer students from all backgrounds, of admission from a campus where including college-bound athletes, they have been wait-listed, they will Parents, students and siblings from Los Perales plant fruit trees Photo Cathy Dausman and maximizes merit and financial aid forfeit their deposit at the first cam- awards. She earned certification from group of Los Perales Ele- Spanish for pear. leaders,” says Sioshansi. “It is pus. UC Berkeley in College Admissions Amentary School students, sib- Jenny Clare, Los Perales PTA nice to see them more involved • Preliminary financial aid awards and Career Planning. lings and family members spent a President, recruited the help; and with the food cycle.” will be sent at the time students are Contact her @ (925) 891-4491 or recent Saturday morning digging Clare and Urban Farmers’ Sia- Urban Farmers has also do- notified of waitlist offers. Students [email protected]. holes, amending soil, planting, mack Sioshansi managed the nated trees to Acalanes High pruning, watering and even paint- project. “It was a really good School, Lafayette Elementary ing the bark on three new fruit trees starting point for [building] a re- School and St. Mary’s College. they planted on school grounds. lationship [with Urban Farmers],” Sioshansi says the Los Perales The non-profit Urban Farmers do- said Clare, adding she is happy to saplings should bear fruit in just Submit stories to nated two antique heirloom apple bring together school families a couple of years. But if it takes trees; a third fruit tree, a pear, was who are interested in growing longer, Clare is okay with that. [email protected] purchased by the Parent Teacher their own produce. “We’re a school that will be Association (PTA). “Perales” is “These children are our future around for a long time,” she says. Page: D8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Orinda Farmers’ Market Opens April 2nd
Photo Ohlen Alexander
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The very what you’re looking for in this issue’s issue will feature a variety of half-day Sphrase sends thrills of excitement annual Summer Camp Guide. camps and classes that will give those through some kids, while in others it If your child’s summer plans in- water-wrinkled fingers a chance to dry instills fear. Think back…chances are clude sleeping in or days filled with out and might even convince sleepy- you fell into one of these categories swim team, our next summer camp head to get up and try something new! yourself. There are many options in ,QWURGXFLQJ&KLOGUHQWRWKH2XWGRRUV6LQFH California and beyond for Lamor- Adventure Day Camp see inda’s young, adventurous spirits; but (Walnut Creek) ad some kids are home-bodies, prefer- ring to spend their days , and nights, Adventure Day Camp is a traditional summer day camp for in familiar surroundings – nothing children ages 3-14. In a relaxed atmosphere, children gain wrong with that, and we can only confidence and skills in a wide range of camp activities; including hope they’ll still feel that way when swimming, horseback riding, sailing, arts, sports, archery, drama, • Ages 4-16 years • Lafayette Lakefront Site • Transportation Included music, rock climbing, hiking, overnight camping, and much more. we are old and waiting for them to Home transportation is available from most areas. come visit! Right here in Lamorinda Dates: June 14 - Aug 13 are sleep-away camps that may help Phone: (925) 937-6500 www.adventuredaycamp.com bridge that gap – away from home, yet just down the street. Seems like kids have never had as Camp AWESOME many choices as they do now. Maybe (Lafayette) you are just looking for a week here Lafayette Recreation offers a variety of fun & reasonably-priced and there to broaden your child’s hori- camps! Camp Awesome offers weekly camps featuring Win a Week of Camp - Roughingit.com zons – give them an opportunity to Games2U, sports, hiking, performances and water play. Bridge learn something new, have an adven- our half day camps (Sports, Arts, Music, Science, Cooking, Dance ture, take a hike…you may find just and more) together with Awesome Lunch Hour to make your own full day camp. Phone: (925) 284-2232 Fashion Design & Website: www.LafayetteRec.org UV^ Bella Oaks Horse Day Camp see Sewing Camps (Martinez) ad MHZOPVUZ[\KPV Camp includes horseback riding lessons, English and Western, Kids & TTeTeenseens - BeginnerBegin to Advanced - Half or Full Day - Spring & Summer and anatomy. We make daily excursions including picnics, hiking under grand oak and bay trees. Bella Oaks also offers crafts, Learn new skills, reinforce math, express your creativity and have lots of fun! games, and activities like sports, bike rides, treasure hunts, Design and make your own unique fashion items: totes, skirts, robes, dresses, hoodies, beach bags, afternoon swimming and so much more! swimsuits, quilts andnd more. SpecialSpecial campscamps for: TeensTTeeeensens Only and Juniors (2nd/3rd Grade) Dates: June 13-August 19 (9am to 3pm) For more information drop-in, call, or visit: www.sewnow.comwww.sewnow.com Phone: (925) 229-2171 Website: www.bellaoakshorsecamp.com Cal Shakes (Lafayette) Summer Shakespeare Conservatories: Five- and Two-week Conservatories offer classes including acting, improvisation, stage combat, and movement. Afternoons are spent in rehearsals for public performances of Shakespeare plays at the end of the program. Grades 3-12. Scholarships available. Dates: June 20-August 12 sewnow! 960 Moraga Rd., Lafayette [1 block S of Mt. DiablDiablo]o] (925) 283-7396 info@[email protected] Phone: (510) 809-3293 Website: summershakespearecamps.org Chabot-Space Explorers Summer Camp (Oakland) Located in the Oakland Hills, off Highway 13, Chabot Space & Science Center offers week long full-day camps for kids entering grades K-8 who are interested in space, science and having fun. Dates: July 5 - August 5 (9am - 4pm) Phone: (510) 336-7426 Website: www.chabotspace.org Email: [email protected] Camp EDMO (Moraga) Camp Edmo is for kids pre-K – entering 4th grade to explore, create, have fun and grow. Each weekly Arts & Science and Animation theme is designed in partnership with top Bay Area children's museums: Exploratorium, California Academy of Sciences, Zeum and MOCHA. In Moraga at Rheem Elementary School. Phone: (415) 282-6673 Website: www.campedmo.org Camp EDTECH (Moraga) Teaches pre-teens and teens entering 5th – 9th grade how to create their own digital movies, photographs, soundtracks, graphic designs, and animations. Both beginners or advanced media- makers will learn to express and impress with their digital media art. In Moraga at Rheem Elementary. Phone: (415) 282-6673 Website : www.campedtech.org The Golden Gate Boys Choir and Bellringers Music Camp (Lafayette) Boys ages 7-14 About Orinda Resident Lorne Smith GGBC Music Camp is a careful balance of musical instruction, choral Princeton University ‘99 (3x All-American, 3x NCAA National rehearsal, sports, arts and crafts, all-camp activities, plus quiet time Champion) for rest and rejuvenation. Held at Oakland Diocesan Youth Retreat Gilman HS, Baltimore MD (2x All-American, 2x MIAA Champion, Center in Lafayette . The camp is either full day or residential. Phone: (510) 887-4311 Baltimore Player of the Year) Website: www.ggbc.org Team USA U19 World Champion, ‘96 MLL Pro Player LA Riptide ‘06-’07 Camp Hacienda Stanford Men’s Lacrosse Coach ‘02-’07 (Moraga) Camp Director since 2002 Again this summer Moraga Parks and Recreation will be offering Camp Hacienda, a day camp for kids ages 5-10 that will incorporate sports, games, crafts and more in the safe, secluded environment of the Hacienda de las Flores. Come for a full day or a half day. Dates: June 13 - August 12 ( 9am - 4pm) Phone: (925) 888-7045 Website: www.moraga.ca.us Page: E2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Open Year-Round • Sign up now! Skillsfor SUMMER Life Since 1961 Celebrating underwater photograph by Swimages 50 Years 2011 • Private Swim Lessons, Year-Round Camp listings collected and compiled by Wendy Scheck Part 1, Full Day and Overnight Camp • Protected Warm Environment • Classes in 90°-92° Water • Diving Lessons • Parties too! iD TECH Camps see Julie Foudy Sports Leadership see (Moraga) ad Academy -Soccer Camp (Moraga) ad Learn to create video games, iPhone & iPad apps, The JFSLA is a unique, week-long residential acad- C++ and Java programs, websites with Flash, emy for girls (ages 12-18, with mixed ability soccer 925-283-2100 • www.ShermanSwim.com movies, Maya 3D animations, robots and more. skills) where soccer, leadership training, and com- Beginner to advanced students, ages 7-17 enroll munity service unite. Julie Foudy-- former Captain in these weeklong, day and overnight summer of the US Women's Soccer Team, 2-time Olympic camps. Located at 60 universities nationwide, in- Gold Medalist World Cup Champion and US Na- cluding St. Mary’s College and UC Berkeley. Save tional Soccer Hall of Famer, will be joined by w/code CAU33L. Olympic Gold medalist Cindy Parlow and our world Full Day or Overnight class staff. Held at St. Mary's College in Moraga. Phone: 1-888-709-TECH (8324) Dates: one week only; July 24-July 29 Website: www.internalDrive.com Website: www.juliefoudyleadership.com Lorne Smith Lacrosse see Roughing It Day Camp see (Moraga) ad (Lafayette) ad One of the most highly regarded teachers of the An all-outdoors day camp located at the Lafayette game, Orinda resident Lorne Smith (Princeton ’99, Reservoir for children 4 1/2 - 16 years. Activities 3x All-American, 3x NCAA National Champion; include: horseback riding, swimming lessons, trail Gilman HS, Baltimore MD, 2x All-American, 2x riding, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, sports, out- MIAA Champion, Baltimore Player of the Year; door adventure & more! Transportation provided Stanford Coach ’02-’07; MLL Pro Player LA Riptide from home and group bus spots. Extended day ’06-’07; Team USA U-19 World Champion ’96) available. returns to St. Mary’s College in Moraga this summer. Dates: One week only; July 13-17 Phone: (925) 283-3795 Website: www.lornesmithlacrosse.com Website: www.roughingit.com Camp Pura Vida see Redwood Ranch Summer Camp see (Boonville) Overnight ad (Oakland Hills) ad A Sleep Away Program operated by Adventure Campers have two English riding lessons each Day Camp. Camp Pura Vida is nestled among red- day, along with horsemanship lessons-learning to wood trees and the Rancheria River offers a beau- saddle up, groom and care for their horses. tiful and tranquil setting for the program. Friendly, safe and supportive environment. Activities include hiking, sports, horseback riding, fishing, camping, arts, drama, and more. Aug 7th - Aug13th (7 days) or Aug 7th - Aug 18th (12 days). Dates: Weekly sessions June 13 – August 26 ( 9:30am - 3pm) Phone: (925) 937-6500 Phone: ( 510) 531-0262 Website: www.adventuredaycamp.com Website: www.redwoodranchstables.com EST. 1996 Sienna Ranch see SMC Summer Camps see (Lafayette) ad (Moraga) ad Lamorinda’s own ranch camp experience. Camp SMC offers 30+ sports camps on one of the most choices include activities in nature immersion, picturesque campuses on the West primitive arts, survival skills, horse riding and care, Coast. Saint Mary's offers boys and girls farm animal interaction, archery, carpentry, and Overnight, Day, Team, and more! Serving campers ages 4-14, Sienna Ranch Specialty Camps for ages 4-18. Summer 2011 of- DATES: July 11 thru July 22 (M – F) offers week-long, full day or ½ day camp options. fers All Sports, Baseball, TIMES: 1:30 – 5:00 P.M. All adult, professional staff and amazing, conven- Basketball, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Tennis FEES: $300 (T-shirt included) ient location. and Volleyball. Phone: (925) 631-4FUN (4386) FOR REGISTRATION FORMS, CONTACT: Phone: (925) 283-6311 Email: [email protected] Website: www.siennaranch.net 925/280-3950 x-5163, [email protected] Website: www.smcgaels.com, click "camps" or download registration form at campofootball.com 2011 Riding Camp Dates Redwood Ranch June 13 thru June 17 June 20 thru June 24 Riding Camp 2011 June 27 thru July 1 July 4 thru July 8 July 11 thru July 15 July 18 thru July 22 July 25 thru July 29 August 1 thru August 5 August 8 thru August 12 August 15 thru August 19 August 22 thru August 26 5745 Redwood Road Oakland, CA 94619 Phone: 510.531.0262 www.redwoodranchstables.com Fax: 510.531.0211 &DPSVLWH&DPSVLWH $W7KH6HYHQ$W7KH 6HYHQ +LOOV6FKRRO+LOOV6FKRRO The Adventurersrsr HalfHHaHalaalflf & FFulluullulll DDayayy PProgramrrogrrraam forfoorr )L^MV\]ZM,Ia+IUX)L^MV\]ZM,Ia +IUX PreschoolPrreresreschoesescschchooooll ageaagge Activvititiees g y Horseback Riding Art Skateboarding Sailing Sports Camping Kayaking Drama Canoeing Climbing Biking Hiking SwimmingSwiwimwimmingimimmmiiinng - MuMusicususiusicsisiciic - CrCraftsraffttts DramaDrammaa - ClimbingClCliClimblilimimbiiningng - SSportsportts Ages 3 - 14 HikingHiHikikkiiningng - HorsebackHHoHorseborsrrsrsesebbbacbackack RidingRiididiidingdidininnng DanceDanncce - StorySSttoorry TeTTellingelellellingllllililininingng +RPH+RPH GamesGammeses - SingingSiniingingingngiggiginingg You may download ou 7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ77UUDQVSRUWDWLRQ DGYHQWXUHGD\FDPSFRPDGYHQWXUHGD\FDPSFRP EnrichmentEnEnrEnrichmnririciichchhhmmmentent 6HUYLQJ0RUDJD 2ULQGD /DIIDD\HWWH StaffedSttaffed bbyy PrreresreschoPreschoolesescschchooolol 2DNODQG3LHGPRQW %HUNHOH\ WKH 2SHQ+RXVH TTeTeacherseeaeaceachersacherersrs a andnndd opoperatedererraated &RUUUULGRUIIUURP 0DUWLQH] WR 6DQ 5DPRQ 0DUFKWK # 30 eexexclusivelyxcxclccluclusivlulusususissivivveelllyy atat TheThe www.lamorind ([WHQGHG&DUHLQFOXGHG([WHQGHG&DUH LQFOXGHG SSeveneveenn HiHil HillsilillllllslsssS SSchoolchchohool Wednesday, March 16, 2011 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: E3 R CAMPS 1 /#1 ps (Part 2, half-day camps, April 13 2010) Camp Kefli see Lafayette Summer Music Jazz Workshop (Lafayette) ad (Lafayette) The Camp Kefli staff leads a wide range of programs The week-long music workshop provides an inti- that are appropriate to each age group (K – 8), fill- mate and inspiring environment for learning and ing our two one-week sessions with fun. Some pro- playing jazz . Master classes, improvisation work- grams utilize the wonderful Temple Isaiah facility shops and jazz combos are led by some of the pre- while others take place off site. We offer creative eminent, professional musicians in the field. theme days and adventures that enrich and delight Directed by Stanley Middle School music director our campers! Bob Athayde . Dates: August 8 - August 19; 9-3:30 (M, T, Th); 9-5 (W, F) Phone: (925) 284-9191 Dates: One week only; August 1- August 5 Website: www.temple-isaiah.org/kefli Website: www.lafayettejazz.wordpress.com. Camp Orinda Orinda Parks & Recreation (Ages 6-10) (Orinda) Enjoy one adventure after another. Camp includes A variety of full day camps offered for theater games, arts and crafts, hiking, skits, sports, special and for beginning – advanced sports levels fun days, and twice weekly field trips. One – two (ages 4-15). Basketball, Capture the Flag, Flag Belle Oaks Stables Welcomes week, full and extended-day camps are offered. Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Mini-Hawk, Soccer and Orinda Parks & Recreation multi-sport camps. 28 Orinda Way Orinda Parks & Recreation HAVE SADDLE WILL TRAVEL 28 Orinda Way Phone: (925) 254-2445 Phone: (925) 254-2445 Website: www.cityoforinda.org Website: www.cityoforinda.org Sharon Leo, Horse Trainer, Riding Instructor Camp Saklan Explorers Sewnow! Fashion Design see 925-212-4812 • [email protected] (Moraga) (Lafayette) ad Come join us for Riding Lessons Horse Camp, Horsemenship Weekly camps for ages 6-10 with theme-based Learn fashion design and sewing at sewnow! fash- Apprenticeship programs and more. www.bellaoakshorsecamp.com activities during the morning session, Monday ion studio. We offer a variety of one week camps thru Thursday. The afternoon session will include for juniors (2nd & 3rd Grade), kids, and teens. activities such as swimming, sports, games, crafts Have fun, learn new skills and walk away with and much more. Weekly field trips every unique personalized fashion items. Camps in- Friday.Half day options for ages 3-5 and 6-10 are clude workbook, fabrics, notions, computerized also available. custom-fit patterns, and custom embroidery. Oakland Strokes 960 Moraga Rd. (1 block south of Mt. Diablo), Dates: June 13-August 12 (8:30am to 4:30pm) Lafayette. Summer Rowing Camps Phone: (925) 376-7900 Phone: (925) 283-7396 Rowing Camps for Boys and Girls Ages 12 – 17 Website: www.saklan.org Website: www.sewnow.com Learn to Row Crew! Summer Park Program Town Hall Kids Our summer program is designed to provide an (Moraga) (Lafayette) enjoyable but very real introduction to the great This camp is a six-week “Drop-in” day program for There is something for everyone this summer at sport of rowing. We use these introductory camps children ages 8-12. The park will be staffed with Town Hall Theatre Kids. Classes expose children of as a recruiting program for all of our rowing teams. Recreation Leaders and children will be able to all ages to theatre arts while developing confi- They provide excellent training for beginning rowers come and go as they (and you) please. They will dence, leadership, team-building skills and acting in rowing technique, teamwork, physical fitness and spend their days participating in age appropriate techniques. Sessions vary in length from one endurance. Within a week rowers will gain enough sports, crafts, games, nature walks, etc. week summer camps to three-week rehearsed skill to row their first race on the Oakland Estuary, presentational productions. which is guaranteed to be an exciting experience Dates: July 11-July 29 and August 1- one way or another! August 19 , Full Day (10am to 3pm) Phone: (925) 888-7045 One Week Introductory Sessions (9 am – 12 am) Website: www.moraga.ca.us Website: www.townhallkids.com UÊ ÕiÊÓäÊqÊÓ{ UÊ ÕiÊÓÇÊqÊÕÞÊ£ÊÊ `Û>Vi`IʣʫÊqÊÎÊ«® UÊ ÕÞÊ££ÊqÊ£x UÊ ÕÞÊÓxÊqÊÓÊÊÊ `Û>Vi`IʣʫÊqÊÎÊ«® UÊÕ}ÕÃÌÊ£ÊqÊxÊÊÊ `Û>Vi`IʣʫÊqÊÎÊ«® The Lamorinda Weekly Summer I `Û>Vi`ÊÃiÃÃÃÊ>Û>>LiÊÌÊ>Ì iÌiÃÊÜ Ê have completed a prior one week introductory Camp listings are not paid session or our middle school program advertising. Our intent is to provide a useful reference guide. Ideal for students entering In the event we have Ì ÊÀÊ£äÌ Ê}À>`it inadvertently printed misinformation please let us Learn More & Sign Up! know. LW is not liable for errors www.oaklandstrokes.org or omissions. College Prep for Students (Grades 7-12) Who Learn Differently Accepting Applications for Fall 2011, and Summer School Open House Wed. April 20th 7:00 PM r Summer Camp Guide: 19 Altarinda Rd., Orinda • 925.254.7553 • www.OrindaAcademy.org Summer School June 20- Aug. 5 daweekly.com Cartooning, Music Lessons, Middle and High School Prep, Math, English, U.S. History, Spanish Page: E 4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 NORTHERN CALIFORNIA’S ONLY FAMOUS DAY/NIGHT SPA specials exp. 4/30/11 Experience Entourage Deep Cleaning Facial $105 Includes: the BEST shampoo and blow dry brow or lip wax 80 for $80 Lunch with champagne or Swedish massage minutes beverage of choice 2 THEATER SQUARE, #148 • ORINDA • 925.254.9721 • WWW.ENTOURAGESPA.COM Day Spa, Salon & Café Serving the Community & Giving to Local Schools since 2003 Hours: Open Mon-Sat, Sun: By Group Arrangement Lamorinda Moms Pick Best of Lamorinda 2011 Submitted by Leslie Ellwood, Best of Lamorinda Survey Chair 2011 2011 Winners List Children Babysitting resource ...... Friends Nanny resource...... Lamorinda Moms Forum Birthday Entertainer ...... Music Together ...... Lafayette Birthday Party Location ...... Pump It Up ...... Concord Children's Birthday Cake ...... Safeway ...... Lafayette Children's Clothing ...... Baby Gap / Gap Kids...... Walnut Creek Toy Store ...... Sweet Dreams ...... Orinda Dance Class / Lessons...... Kids 'N Dance ...... Lafayette Gymnastics Class ...... Kindergym ...... Lafayette amorinda Moms is a social Music Class...... Music Together ...... Lafayette Land support club for par- Swim lessons ...... Campolindo High - Soda Aquatic Center ...... Moraga ents with children under five in Summer Camp ...... Orinda Parks & Rec ...... Orinda Kid's Haircut...... Ms. Karen's Place ...... Lafayette the greater Lamorinda area. Playground...... Moraga Commons ...... Moraga The organization strives to help Walk / Hike with Kids ...... Lafayette Reservoir...... Lafayette members enrich their lives Rainy Day Activity ...... Lindsay Wildlife Museum ...... Walnut Creek through cultivating new friend- Storytime ...... Miss Donna - Lafayette Library...... Lafayette ships, personal and profes- Pre School...... Growing Tree Pre-School ...... Moraga sional growth, and community Food / Drink / Fun involvement. Brunch ...... Chow ...... Lafayette Approximately every two Carryout / Delivery ...... Chow ...... Lafayette years, Lamorinda Moms con- Family Friendly Dining ...... Chow ...... Lafayette Chinese Food...... Uncle Yu's Szechuan...... Lafayette ducts a survey to choose mem- Pizza ...... Zachary's ...... Oakland ber favorites in a variety of Indian Food ...... Swad ...... Lafayette categories including health, Mexican Food ...... El Charro...... Lafayette beauty and dining. In addition Italian Food ...... Postino ...... Lafayette to creating a resource list for our Japanese Food / Sushi ...... Blue Ginko ...... Lafayette members, we also publicly rec- Middle Eastern Food...... Babalou's Mediterranean and ...... Walnut Creek ognize the outstanding local ...... Turquoise Mediterranean Grill ...... Orinda Thai Food ...... Amarin Thai...... Lafayette vendors. We are pleased to an- Desserts...... Yogurt Shack...... Lafayette nounce the winners of the 2011 Seafood ...... Yankee Pier ...... Lafayette survey here. Steak...... Ruth's Chris ...... Walnut Creek Each current Lamorinda Sandwich Shop...... Genova Delicatessen ...... Walnut Creek Moms member was eligible to Coffee (Shop)...... Peet's Coffee ...... Lafayette vote once. All who participated Outdoor Dining ...... Metro...... Lafayette were entered to win one of two Romantic Dinner ...... Postino ...... Lafayette Mom's Night Out ...... Metro...... Lafayette gift certificates, a body polish Movie Theater ...... Century 14 ...... Walnut Creek treatment courtesy of Entourage Live Music...... Moraga Commons ...... Moraga Spa in Orinda and a $50 gift Live Theater ...... Lesher Performing Arts Center...... Walnut Creek certificate for the new hot Pumpkin Patch ...... Clayton Valley Pumpkin Patch ...... Clayton restaurant in Orinda, Table 24. Pictures with Santa ...... Broadway Plaza ...... Walnut Creek Winners were those that re- Professional Services ceived the most votes. We had Dry Cleaners ...... Sterling Cleaners ...... Lafayette one instance where a tie was de- Florist ...... Orchard Nursery & Florist...... Lafayette Grocery Store...... Trader Joe's ...... Lafayette clared in the Best Middle East- Party Supplies ...... Boswell's...... Lafayette ern Food restaurant. Pet Grooming / Sitting ...... Heather's Pet Care...... East Bay Winners will receive a cer- Veterinarian ...... Lafayette Animal Hospital ...... Lafayette tificate and letter informing Caterer ...... Barbara Llewellyn Catering & Event Planning. . . . . Oakland them of their win. The purpose Photographer ...... Carrie Richards ...... Oakland of this survey is to both recog- Plant Nursery...... Orchard Nursery & Florist...... Lafayette nize great resources within the Health Lamorinda area and provide a Pediatric Dentist...... Aloha Pediatric Dentistry ...... Orinda valuable information bank for Ob/Gyn ...... Anahat Sandhu, MD...... Lafayette Opthamologist / Optometrist ...... Kristine Eng, OD...... Orinda Lamorinda Moms members as Dermatologist...... Kelly Hood, MD...... Lafayette well as our community. Thank Chiropractor ...... Orinda Family Chiropractic & Massage ...... Orinda you to all who participated in Pediatrician / Pediatric Office ...... LaMorinda Pediatrics ...... Lafayette the survey and congratulations Pregnancy / Maternity / Newborn to the winners! Prenatal Yoga Class ...... Day One Center ...... Walnut Creek Since 1995 the Lamorinda Moms Birth / Parenting Class ...... John Muir Women's Health Center ...... Walnut Creek has evolved to become one of the Infant Specialty Shop ...... Day One Center ...... Walnut Creek Lactation Consultant ...... Day One Center - Linda...... Walnut Creek largest parenting organizations in Sleep Consultant ...... Babies2Sleep - Karen Pollak...... Danville the San Francisco Bay Area, with Pampering and Fitness over 700 members. The club hosts dozens of activities and events Day Spa ...... Claremont Hotel and Spa...... Oakland each month, and provides valu- Full Service Salon...... Entourage ...... Orinda Manicure / Pedicure ...... Lavande ...... Lafayette able resources to parents in the Gym ...... Oakwood Athletic Club...... Lafayette Lamorinda area. To learn more Fitness Class...... Bar Method ...... Walnut Creek about Lamorinda Moms, includ- Mom & Baby Fitness Class...... Baby Bootcamp ...... Lafayette ing how to join, please visit us at Yoga / Pilates Studio ...... Yogaworks ...... Walnut Creek www.lamorindamoms.org. Thank you Voted “Best Of” Reach 60,000+ in 2011 Lamorinda Moms! by Lamorinda Moms, San Jose Mercury News in Lamorinda Signature $ Signature Pedicure 26 Manicure Massage Special $ Nail Care, Exfoliation, $ for 50min Swedish or Deep Tissue. Purchase of 2 required 49 Massage, and Polish 13 Advertise with us Gift Cards Available. Parties are Welcome. Offers expires 4/30/2011 Lamorinda Weekly 3589 Mt. Diablio Blvd. Lafayette Call 925-299-8877 Open Daily 10am-7pm, 925-377-0977 today except Thanksgiving, X’mas, and New Year Day Manicure - Pedicure - Massage - Facial - Waxing amorinda L OUR HOMES Lamorinda Weekly Volume 05 Issue 1 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Barbara Winters (on R) with Leslie Price who manages outside rentals. StagingóFirst Impressions Count By Andrea A. Firth taging is akin to putting on pearls mon goal—maximizing the sale. “Stag- based on time (the stager’s fee) and ma- of the legwork to get the home prepared Swith a little black dress, says Niko- ing a home really does put more money terials (furniture rental fees), can range as a client wants. lene Isely who owns Staging by Design in the seller’s pocket. It leads to a quicker from several hundred to several thousand “You want people to remember the based in Moraga. “The idea is to make the sale and a higher price,” says realtor Sue dollars depending on the services used house,” says Winters, but she acknowl- house, not the contents, the star,” says Layng, a founding member of Village As- and the length of time on the market. edges that this can be challenging in an Isely. Barbara Winters, the owner of Stag- sociates Real Estate in Orinda. “We have Stagers will consult on home décor de- area that has a number of generic, and ing & Design in Lafayette, employs a sim- a wealth of talented and caring stagers in sign and color and manage contractors to often dated, ranch homes. “Sometimes ilar analogy to explain the concept of this area,” adds Layng, noting that almost paint, repair, and update. Empty homes the challenge is adding some character to staging. “If you put on a little lipstick, you every property her firm sells is staged at can be furnished with rented furniture, the house, and that’s when being eclectic always look better,” says Winters. “Stag- some level. art, and accessories, or stagers will work can help.” ing is like putting a little lipstick on a Stagers in Lamorinda provide a with existing home furnishings, re- Winters, a self-described collector, house.” wide range of services to ready homes for arrange the old, and mix in new pieces. maintains a 6,500-foot warehouse in Stagers in Lamorinda share a com- sale. The cost to stage a home, typically Most stagers will do as much or as little Lafayette filled with a huge assortment of furniture, bedding, art, and accessories to support her staging and furniture rental businesses. “I like to add a bit of humor and levity to my staging designs,” says Winters who aims for variety and is com- fortable mixing contemporary and Chi- nese pieces and throwing in an animal print for contrast and pop. “I’ll do what- ever is fitting for the house and put a twist on it to give it that wow factor,” she adds. Jenifer Brunk and Gray Hynes were two of the first stagers to work in the Lam- orinda area. The two college friends, both longtime Orinda residents, purchased their staging business, Improve to Move, 18 years ago. “Early on we spent a lot of time explaining the staging concept to re- altors and buyers, but it’s a well accepted practice now, it’s expected,” says Brunk. “We don’t have a specific style,” says Brunk, “We stage a home to showcase what’s special about that house,” Although the approaches employed by stagers may vary, it all comes back to the sale. Jenifer Brunk (L) and Gray Hynes in a home they recently staged. Photo Doug Kohen ...continued on page F6 OUR HOMES Wed., March 16, 2011 Page: F 2 Troy Feddersen 925-550-2353 Broker Associate www.TroyFed.com J. Rockcliff, Realtors [email protected] Lamorinda Home Sales recorded LAFAYETTE March is time to sell! Maximize YOUR return. Call Troy. Last reported: 7 Home sales are compiled by Cal REsource, an Oak- LOWEST AMOUNT: $585,000 land real estate information company. Sale prices $595,000 in Orinda! 7 Loma Vista HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,080,000 are computed from the county transfer tax infor- WhatNeeds a work,great butopportunity what a great for an opportunity affordable for 2 bdrm, an MORAGA Last reported: 8 mation shown on the deeds that record at close 1.5affordable bath Orinda 2 bdrm, home, 1.5 bathwith aOrinda huge home,backyard with and a LOWEST AMOUNT: $200,000 of escrow and are published five to eight weeks after such recording. This information is obtained panoramichuge backyard view and of the panoramic hills and viewOrinda of theCountry hills and HIGHEST AMOUNT: $995,000 Club.Orinda Needs Country work, Club. but Fantastic fantastic lotlot andand location.location. from public county records and is provided to us ORINDA Last reported: 5 Near Orinda Park Pool & walking distance to town. by California REsource. Neither Cal REsource nor LOWEST AMOUNT: $625,000 this publication are liable for errors or omissions. Excellence Expertise DRE# 1835783 HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,100,000 LAFAYETTE 898 Dewing Avenue, $619,000, 4 Bdrms, 1551 SqFt, 1932 YrBlt, 2-18-11; Previous Sale: $199,000, 10-02-96 1057 Dolores Drive, $645,000, 3 Bdrms, 1531 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 2-8-11 1176 Glen Road, $1,080,000, 4 Bdrms, 2578 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 2-23-11; Previous Sale: $1,360,000, 08-08-06 1 Nephi Court, $770,000, 4 Bdrms, 3751 SqFt, 1972 YrBlt, 2-24-11; Previous Sale: $550,000, 10-02-92 3096 Hedaro Court, $625,000, 4 Bdrms, 1709 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 2-15-11 1067 Oak Hill Road, $610,000, 3 Bdrms, 1492 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 2-23-11; Previous Sale: $825,000, 10-14-05 3151 Withers Avenue, $585,000, 4 Bdrms, 2455 SqFt, 1962 YrBlt, 2-14-11; Previous Sale: $929,000, 01-13-05 MORAGA 2135 Ascot Drive #5, $415,000, 3 Bdrms, 1800 SqFt, 1969 YrBlt, 2-16-11; OPEN HOUSE — Sunday, March 6, 2 to 5 pm Previous Sale: $53,500, 06-20-75 2045 Ascot Drive #B, $200,000, 2 Bdrms, 928 SqFt, 1974 YrBlt, 2-18-11; TWO FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES Previous Sale: $345,000, 07-26-04 RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE 3744 Campolindo Drive, $705,000, 4 Bdrms, 2074 SqFt, 1977 YrBlt, 2-17-11; Previous Sale: $113,000, 03-08-78 VLATKA BATHGATE 116 Corliss Drive, $995,000, 4 Bdrms, 2288 SqFt, 1965 YrBlt, 2-23-11; 925.597.1573 Previous Sale: $925,000, 12-03-03 [email protected] 283 Deerfield Drive, $655,000, 3 Bdrms, 2498 SqFt, 1966 YrBlt, 2-23-11; Previous Sale: $60,000, 07-01-71 DRE#01390784 1090 Larch Avenue, $925,000, 3 Bdrms, 2633 SqFt, 1960 YrBlt, 2-10-11; Previous Sale: $192,000, 04-21-86 169 Shuey Drive, $714,000, 4 Bdrms, 1956 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 2-18-11 133 Westchester Street, $620,000, 3 Bdrms, 2264 SqFt, 1979 YrBlt, 2-18-11; 2227 La Salle Dr, Walnut Creek 136 Spring Rd, Orinda Previous Sale: $542,000, 10-12-00 Coming Soon! www.136SpringRd.com ORINDA 212 Crescent Drive, $950,000, 2 Bdrms, 1849 SqFt, 1966 YrBlt, 2-10-11; Previous Sale: $1,050,000, 07-03-08 403 Dalewood Drive, $901,000, 4 Bdrms, 6502 SqFt, 1972 YrBlt, 2-18-11; Previous Sale: $1,400,000, 04-06-05 21 Lavina Court, $625,000, 3 Bdrms, 1391 SqFt, 1954 YrBlt, 2-23-11 70 Lost Valley Drive, $670,000, 4 Bdrms, 2342 SqFt, 1977 YrBlt, 2-24-11; Previous Sale: $850,000, 06-09-05 429 Ridge Gate Road, $1,100,000, 3 Bdrms, 2684 SqFt, 1980 YrBlt, 2-16-11; Previous Sale: $1,530,000, 01-23-08 Outstanding, beautifuly remodeled 4 Charming 1667 sqft cottage with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms home with bedrooms plus office/bonus room private flat yard, has it all. and open floor plan with oodles of light. Lamorinda Foreclosures recorded Priced at $599,000 Priced at $658,000 MORAGA 14 Miramonte Drive, 94556, Federal National Mortgage, 02-15-11, $357,779, WWW.BESTLAMORINDAHOMES.COM 1152 sf, 2 bd ASSOCIATES REAL ESTATE MARVELOUS HAPPY VALLEY LIVING Open Sunday 3/20 1-4 This approximately 3236 square foot, six bedroom, four bath home combines unique interior spaces offering a venue for wonderful entertaining and/or warm intimate gatherings. Lovely hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings and large windows add fabulous natural light and volume to many rooms. The kitchen/family great room has access to the spacious back yard and patio for great indoor/outdoor living and entertaining. All this within walking 3919 South Peardale Drive, Lafayette distance to the Lafayette Reservoir and Oakwood Athletic Club, excellent freeway access for an easy commute and top rated Lafayette schools. Presented by SUE LAYNG Offered at $1,335,000 Cell: 925-963-7189 [email protected] www.SueLayng.com ASSOCIATES DRE # 000970956 REAL ESTATE Peralta Rates Remain Near Historical Lows. FHA Construction Loans to $729,750 Require only a 3.5% Down CUSTOM HOMES | ADDITIONS REMODELING Payment! This is a Great Time to Buy a Home! owned and operated by Moraga resident Pat Geoghegan BUILDING THE BAY AREA FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS 925.273.7692 Lic #624045 www.peraltaconstruction.com Kyle Davis Dexter Honens II MORTGAGE BROKER REAL ESTATE BROKER Joan Cleveland Lamorinda Resident Since 1995 Please call me for your Real 80% Loans to $2,000,000 Estate needs to experience the Broker, MBA 75% Loans to $3,000,000 integrity, professionalism and Joan’s 34 years of success in real estate is the results you expect. result of the satisfaction of her many repeat and Providing Premier Loan products referral clients who value her expertise, and service. For current rates call Serving clients, friends and family negotiating skills and professionalism. Kyle at 925-314-5299. in your neighborhood since 1989. Fax: (925) 831-9161 Office: (925) 253-2148 “The consummate professional” [email protected] Residence: (925) 254-8088 W.W., Orinda client Cell: (510) 918-8911 [email protected] ASSOCIATES REAL ESTATE DRE License #01111347 REAL ESTATE Office: 925-254-0505, Cell: 925-200-2909, [email protected] DRE# 00592537 DRE License #01327738 WWW.HOLCENBERG.COM Client satisfaction: a family tradition New Listings Open Sunday 1-4 Coming soon! Wendy Holcenberg [email protected] 925.253.4630 DRE#00637795 Michelle Holcenberg [email protected] 232 Calle La Mesa, Moraga 3764 Via Granada, Moraga 925.253.4663 Updated single-story, 4 bedroom, 2 bath home with over Completely remodeled and expanded Campolindo rancher. This DRE#01373412 .30 acre level yard with views, pool, spa, sauna & lawn. Granite, home features 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and a full-equipped media room stainless & maple kitchen, tiled baths, hardwood flooring, dual- that could be used as an au pair /in -law suite. The chef's kitchen has paned windows, skylights & new paint. Living room, formal marble counter tops, 6-burner Dacor range and much more. The dining, family room with raised ceiling opens to kitchen/dinette. family room has a built-in media center. Master bedroom suite with Pool club, top schools & excellent commute location. walk-in closet and luxurious bath. Spacious, level yard with lawn, patio, $895,000 sports court, dog run, fruit trees and hot tub. $1,098,000 Art Lehman Proudly Presents! 20 MONTICELLO CT LAFAYETTE Coming Soon! Tucked away in one of 725 Crossbrook Drive Moraga nature's most serene and Traditional Moraga 4 bedroom and 2 bath ranch home on private .69 naturally beautiful set- acre lot with fabulous views and pool. Great floor plan with formal tings, this Happy Valley living, dining, plus Glen property offers one separate family room of the most special resi- with fresh paint and dential retreats. Privacy new carpet. with a secluded setting as it backs to Briones Re- gional Park, this 1.60 acre th Mediterranean style estate property ISBD and 4.SBA +/- 4729sfl built in Open Sunday March 27 1-4pm 2000 is the perfect venue for informal gatherings and grand-scale entertaining. The 1.60 acre grounds are magnificent with level lawn areas, a complete professional outdoor kitchen, fireplace, infinity pool with water slide and beach area, outdoor spa, volleyball court all surrounded by lush gardens and towering Oaks. 925 200-2591 Offered at $2,999,000 [email protected] Artlehman.com license # DRE# 01159698 Page: F 6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 StagingóFirst Impressions Count ...continued from page F1 “We want the buyer to be able to picture themselves in the home,” says Hynes. She and Brunk keep a small inventory of linens and accessories and rent furniture through a large supplier in San Francisco. “They constantly turnover their inventory and keep up with the styles and trends. It’s a fab- ulous resource,” says Brunk. Less is more for stagers who universally find that clutter is distracting and personal items don’t sell a home. But in today’s market, sellers are often still living in the staged home, so the stager is faced with striking a workable compromise. “There is a delicate balance to be achieved, because selling and moving is often emotional for the homeowner,” says Layng, “Good stagers are sensitive to the homeowner’s needs and have away of making him or her feel good about the staging process.” With the widespread use of online real estate mar- keting, stagers are now also faced with staging for both the live and virtual tour. “People are buying houses using the internet, so you want to be sure that the house looks great in photographs, too,” says Isely. And, the details count when it comes to staging. A newly painted mailbox, clean windows, a new doormat – all give the impression that a house is well maintained. “All those little things do matter,” Furniture and accessories housed at Barbara Winters' warehouse in Lafayette. Photos Doug Kohen says Isely, “It’s all about making a great first impression.” Nikolene Isely Barbara Winters Staging by Design Staging & Design www.stagerbydesign.com [email protected]; [email protected], (925) 330-2107 (925) 360-0947 Lipstick Staging Resources Jenifer Brunk and Gray Hynes (furniture rental) Improve to Move www.lipsticksr.com; [email protected]; (925) 284-1231 (925) 998-3681 Staged rooms are clutter-free and incorporate attractive accents. +BZ8JMMJBNT1SFTFOUT PENDING IN 3 DAYS with multiple offers. 4DIPPM4USFFU .PSBHB %FFSGJFME%SJWF .PSBHB For results, call Shellie! 3268 So. Lucille, Lafayette Listed for $799,000. Coming in April Spacious 5 bedroom, %HGURRPV%DWKV %HGURRPV%DWKV 6T)W 6T)W 4 bath home over /HYHO+DOI$FUH3DUFHO /HYHO/DZQ 3RRO 2IIHUHGDW 2IIHUHGDW 3100 sq ft. with XXX4DIPPM4USFFUDPN XXX%FFSGJFMEDPN 2 master suites Shellie Abbes Kirby Incredible location. [email protected] &DOOWR9LHZRU'LVFXVV/RFDO5HDO(VWDWH Call Shellie for details. 925-872-4257 +BZ8JMMJBNT DRE # 01251226 -D\#-D\:LOOLDPV%L] ZZZ-D\:LOOLDPV%L] RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE “On a Clear Day” – WOW! And on Every Other Day – WOW! Open Sunday 3/20 1-4 This lovely 2019 square foot end unit boasts the very best views in Summit Ridge. Two master suites: one with a fireplace, one with a separate sitting room - both have their own decks. A spacious kitchen with vaulted ceiling provides an informal eating area and 578 Monarch Ridge, Walnut Creek tons of natural light. The inviting living room with fireplace provides direct access to a welcoming patio while a second access from the formal dining to the charming patio offers gracious entertaining. This home is filled with natural light, has beautiful hardwood floors, and a gracious floor plan for indoor/outdoor living. Steps away from walking and hiking plus Presented by excellent Lafayette schools. Simply the best! SUE LAYNG Offered at $625,000 Cell: 925-963-7189 [email protected] www.SueLayng.com ASSOCIATES DRE # 000970956 REAL ESTATE Lamorinda’s Leading Independent Real Estate Firm. ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA THE VILLAGE ASSOCIATES: L Ashley Battersby Patricia Battersby New Listing New Listing New Price New Listing 6 Oak Flat Road 97 Coral Drive 5 Kenmore Court 29 La Vuelta Joan Cleveland Charming 4bd/2.5ba contemp on .75 ac lot in prem Fabulous 4bd + office on sought-after Ivy Dr. Updated 4bd/3ba home with in-law suite, 2500 This OCC Lake Cascade Mediterranean retreat loc. Highlights incl eat-in kitchen w/breakfast rm, neighborhood. Beaut updated chef's kitchen opens sf on 1.19 acre, great views, 3-car gar + offers comfortable indoor/outdoor living, 5bd, Joan Eggers DR, lg fam rm w/frplc, cathedral ceiling, hardwood to fam rm. Hardwood flrs, skylights, dual pnes. carport. Addl. ofc/ playhouse, horse stall, 4.5ba, nearly 3,700 sqft, pool and gourmet flrs & walls of windows. Top schools. Walk to top schools. orchard & gardens. Just move in! kitchen. Linda Ehrich Offered at $599,000 Offered at $989,000 Offered at $995,000 Offered at $1,345,000 Joan Evans ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA MORAGA Linda S Friedman Marianne Greene Pamela Halloran Dexter Honens II New Listing New Price New Listing Debbie Johnston 457 Dalewood Drive 484 Dalewood Drive 136 Manzanita Court 1027 Larch Avenue Hal Kaufman New Listing... never on the market. Owner Huge price reduction! Orig owner, cared for w/lots Spectacular newly blt 4000 sf custom Santa White picket fence & Dutch door entry will dazzle built with TLC. Great Contemporary on one of of TLC. Quality blt, x-lg rms, open & airy, lots of Barbara style home seldom found in area, you. Ideal 3bd/2ba home for indoor/outdoor Margot Kaufman the biggest Orinda Downs lots. 5 Bd, 2.5 Bath, storage, sep library, 5th bd on one wing. Fantastic 4bd/3.5ba of incredible design & custom lifestyle. Beautiful creekside setting w/freeform 2 fireplaces, 2700+ sq ft. Room for expansion. yd w/pool & spa, changing rms. appointments. A world of charm. pool & year round flowers/color. Susan Zeh Layng Offered at $1,400,000 Offered at $1,695,000 Offered at $1,995,000 Offered at $765,000 Art Lehman MORAGA LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE Charles Levine April Matthews I. Bruce Maxon Karen Murphy New Listing New Listing New Listing Ben Olsen 1383 Camino Pablo 3419 Shangri La Road 4090 Coralee Lane 819 Las Trampas Sue Olsen Light & bright turnkey 2,800 sqft 5bd/3ba Totally charming 3100 sf 5bd w/updated eat-in Beautiful .61 acre setting. Close in 5bd + Custom blt 3548 sf 4bd/4.5ba hm on oak studded entertainers delight with hw floors, dual pane kitchen (granite/gas cooktop), huge fam rm plus office with 4 baths. Remodeled kitchen, open 1 ac lot in Las Trampas trail neighborhood. Pool Kurt Piper windows and granite kitchen and baths. Large bonus rm., 3-car gar. Lg 1.07 ac lot w/pool & use floor plan. & extensive landscape/hardscape. Fabulous flrpln private backyard & close to top schools. of riding arena. Great Reliez Valley location. w/grand spaces. Tara Rochlin Offered at $1,250,000 Offered at $975,000 Offered at $1,175,000 Offered at $1,495,000 Judy Schoenrock LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE WALNUT CREEK WALNUT CREEK Ann Sharf Steve Smith Jeff Snell Lynda Snell New Listing New Listing New Price New Price Clark Thompson 15 Candlelight Lane 20 Monticello Court 987 Monet Circle 314 Warwick Drive Perfection in this stunning 3417 sf Craftsman- Spectacular one-of-a-kind estate tucked away 4bd/2.5ba built in 2000. High ceilings, loads of Charming 4bd hm in Scottsdale w/sidewalks nr Ignacio Vega style sgl lvl hm blt in 2005, fab floor plan, in Happy Valley area. 1.6 ac built in 2000. light. COnvenient location close to shopping, Heather Farms, Northgate HS, recreation areas Terri Bates Walker many impressive finishes & features, a very Incredible yard - maybe the best in all of commute, trails, etc. Elegant, functional home. & trails. Lots of updates, hdwd flrs, great yard, exceptional 4bd/3ba home. Lafayette. Reduced $500K from last year. large bedrooms. Ann Ward Offered at $1,695,000 Offered at $2,999,000 Offered at $695,000 Offered at $705,000 Dan Weil Visit www.villageassociates.com Margaret Zucker to see our weekly online previews updated every Wednesday and Friday by noon. Click on Sunday Open House Friday after 5 PM for Open House listings 93 Moraga Way, Suite 103 Orinda, CA 94563 ASSOCIATES (925) 254-0505 or 1-866-856-VARE REAL ESTATE