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High Schools Prep for Stellar Spring Productions By Clare Varellas Photos Ohlen Alexander

or many of us, the word “musical” conjures up images from schools during one of their March musical performances, you to perform some relatively new and groundbreaking productions Fthe most classic Broadway productions: Curly beaming might be surprised to find onstage an ogre singing in his swamp, this year, or to take new, interesting spins on old ones. while belting out “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’” in “Okla- or a man loudly expressing his opinion that people have the right Acalanes High School cast members will be performing the homa” or Fantine executing a tear-jerking rendition of “I to use the restroom without taxation. well-known musical “Guys and Dolls” March 6-8 in the Dreamed a Dream” in “Les Mis.” So when you venture into the Armed with deep talent pools and hard-working directors Acalanes Performing Arts Center. auditoriums of Acalanes, Miramonte, or Campolindo high and musicians, Lamorinda high school musical casts have chosen ... continued on page A14

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Town News A2 - A14 Infrastructure Piece by Piece Business A10 Life in Lamorinda B1 - B12 By Laurie Snyder Classified B8 “Sometimes, if you stand on the bottom from Mother Nature’s mutability. In its Food B9 rail of a bridge and lean over to watch the place now stands a concrete super-struc- Not to be Missed B10-B11 river slipping slowly away beneath you, ture that is wider, longer and elevated 5 HOW TO CONTACT US B11 you will suddenly know everything there feet higher above the flood zone – engi- Love Lafayette B12 is to be known.” – Winnie the Pooh neered to improve water flow as well as Sports C1 - C6 t began with the removal of trees in public safety with structural, hydraulic Service Directory C3 IJanuary 2013, and ended with a rainy and alignment deficiencies mitigated Our Homes D1 -D12 day ribbon cutting Feb. 10 that was and a new sidewalk in place to separate This Week Read About: brightened by smiles and feelings of civic pedestrians from cars. Condos with TJ View? A2 pride and genuine relief. Along the way, Carolyn Elsberry, an Orindan who has Bridge Bump A4 blustery days were endured, creek waters been walking the Manzanita area for 69 Dollars and Sense A6 were diverted and a one-lane bridge was years, was one among the crowd who wit- Union Blasts Board A9 installed temporarily to facilitate demoli- nessed the ribbon cutting.“It’s really a Walking for Henry B1 tion of aging structure near an important love story with the bridge … For me, the Coping in Middle School B2 East Bay Municipal Utility District water bridge was a central part of my life and Big scissors for a big project. After years of planning and a fast- Climbing Gamlang Razi B3 treatment plant in Orinda. my social life,” she said of her time grow- tracked year of construction work, the ribbon was officially cut Local Author B8 Built in 1937 over the San Pablo ing up nearby. “To me, it looked brand Feb.10 on Orinda’s new, safer Manzanita Bridge. Shown here Mats, Cougs Win DFAL C1 Creek, the Manzanita Bridge was seis- new when I came here as a child.” (from left): Orinda City Council member Amy Worth, Mayor mically unsafe and increasingly at risk ... continued on page A11 Sue Severson, Carolyn Elsberry, former Orinda mayor Joyce Hawkins, city manager Janet Keeter. Photo Ohlen Alexander Life in Lamorinda B1-B12 Sports C1-C6 Our Homes D1-D12 Family Soccer Disaster Preparedness Feud? Semifinals Canyon "God of hopes for the Carnage" Tonight best and comes to Town Two Campo squads and the plans for the Hall Theatre - Miramonte girls set their sights worst - page page B5. on the goal - pages C2, C3. D1. Page: A2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

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Diablo Blvd. By Cathy Tyson Design Review Monday, March 10, 7 p.m. ooking to get feedback from the project while being sensitive to the stakeholders again and consider the Fellow commissioner Ken Her- Lafayette Library & Learning Center, LDesign Review Commission, neighborhood. whole project in response to com- tel commented that the current de- Arts & Science Discovery Center, local developer Lenox Homes, LLC Dan Freeman, president of ments received from design review sign needs to be pared down and 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. heard constructive suggestions at the Lenox Homes, is looking forward to commissioners. pushed further back on the site. Check online for agendas, meeting second study session for its proposed working locally after having focused Suggestions from commissioners Neighbors chimed in about the notes and announcements eight-unit multi-family in-fill project on projects in Alamo, Danville and focused on the overall size of the overall mass of the building and City of Lafayette: that would be located at 945 Moun- Walnut Creek. He calls the project project; vice chair Gordon Chong de- shared their concern about lack of www.ci.lafayette.ca.us tain View Dr. directly behind Trader unique, very pedestrian friendly and scribed it as “edge to edge on prop- space for emergency vehicles or de- Phone: (925) 284-1968 Joe’s. Two levels of four units each geared toward active move-down erty line, with no breathing room.” A livery trucks on the street. Also with Chamber of Commerce: would rest atop a slightly lowered buyers. Research by the company common refrain suggested reducing an overall height of over 34 feet, just parking area, 2 feet below grade.The indicated a growing market exists for the building footprint by adjusting the below a maximum height of 35 feet, www.lafayettechamber.org roughly 0.3-acre site currently has a current residents who don’t want to number of parking spaces and per- the current version towers over neigh- School Board Meetings vintage bungalow style home with leave Lafayette, but are seeking a haps shrinking the overall number of bors directly south of the building – at Acalanes Union High School District lots of asphalt. Bordered by the one-level home that’s convenient to units or the size of the generous two- a previous study session it had been Wednesday, March 5, 7:30 p.m. Trader Joe’s loading dock on one shops and BART, but with less main- bedroom plus den units from around described as an aircraft carrier. Wednesday, March 19, 7:30 p.m. side, an apartment complex to the tenance than what’s required to take 1,825 square feet to something “This is a journey,” said Free- AUHSD Board Room at 1212 east, and a driveway that serves the care of an aging single family home. smaller. The city parking require- man, “an organic process.” He ex- Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette apartments directly to the south, it’s “We’re exploring concepts at this ment for an eight-unit building is 12 plained that changes are part of the www.acalanes.k12.ca.us a challenging site for the developer point and gathering input,” said spaces, the current version of the journey and the structure is still a to balance an economically viable Freeman who plans to reach out to project includes 19 parking spots. work in progress at this point. Lafayette School District Wednesday, March 12, 7 p.m. Regular Board Meeting Regulating Massage Parlors Successful Stanley Library 3477 School St., Lafayette By Cathy Tyson www.lafsd.k12.ca.us t’s been over a year and a half operating within Lafayette to be plication for certification, and po- submit new employee names and Isince the city of Lafayette state-certified and forces all mas- lice have verified every business are required to re-apply on an an- adopted an ordinance that regu- sage businesses to register with the license applicant and their employ- nual basis and their certification is lated massage establishments, in city and post their certificates of ees. reverified, said Surges-Moscato. response to some arrests, suspi- registration in visible locations. The ordinance calls for each Additionally, certain minimum cious behavior and citizens’ con- Existing businesses that are li- employee to have a California health and safety standards are cerns. Businesses had 30 days to censed for therapy like chiroprac- Massage Therapy Council number. spelled out and contact informa- submit documentation after Ordi- tors, orthopedists, and physical Although Lamorinda Weekly was tion for business owners must be nance 606 was adopted on May therapists are specifically ex- unable to review the confidential provided to police. Originally the 29, 2012 or face penalties. empted. applications, “We check everyone city’s goal was not to prohibit le- Lafayette Police “All seem to be complying,” A quick check with the police that applies,” confirmed commu- gitimate practitioners, but to keep said Chief of Police Eric Chris- department revealed smooth sail- nity services officer Cathy Surges- track of the massage businesses in Department tensen. “None have left because of ing since implementation for the Moscato. town. Prior to the ordinance, mas- Incident registration, but the wild times are 16 massage establishments, spas Presumably employees come sage parlors fell into the “personal certainly over.” and therapeutic centers currently and go, like in any other business services category” that were per- summary report, The new rules require all mas- operating within city limits. All – the new regulations are set up to mitted to operate downtown, sim- Feb. 9-15 sage therapists and practitioners have filled out the appropriate ap- address turnover; applicants must ilar to nail or hair salons. Alarm calls: 21 Animal Cruelty: Mt Diablo Bl Burglary, Auto: Lafayette Planning Mountain View Ln Burglary, Residential: Upper Happy Valley Rd Commission Vacancy Mountain View Dr Valente Court The City of Lafayette is looking for a volunteer to fill a vacancy on the seven-member Planning White Oak Dr Burglary, Commercial: Commission. The Planning Commission is charged with development of the General Plan, implementation & administration of the Zoning Ordinance and review of development Safeway Suspicious Vehicle Stops: 6 applications including subdivisions, land use permits, and hillside development permits. Applicants must be residents of Lafayette. The Commission typically meets at 7:00 p.m. on the Suspicious Person/Circum- stances: 17 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month in the Community Hall at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center located at 3491 Mt. Diablo Boulevard. For more information about the Reckless Driving: Near McDonalds Commission’s duties, please contact Planning Director Niroop Srivatsa at 925.299.3206. Hit & Run: Applications can be downloaded from the City’s web site at http://www.ci.lafayette.ca.us/. The Mt Diablo/Pleasant Hill Rd deadline for filing applications with the City Clerk is March 7, 2014. Interviews will be Panhandling: scheduled in mid to late March. Mt Diablo Bl Petty Theft: Mt Diablo Bl S Thompson Rd White Oak Dr El Curtola Bl The Lafayette City Council is Mosswood Dr Address not available (2) Vehicle Theft: soliciting applicants to fill the Mt Diablo (2) Diablo Foods following volunteer vacancies:

Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee, Circulation Commission, Lafayette Community Center Foundation, Capital Projects Assessment Committee (CPAC), Creeks Committee, Design Review Commission, Downtown Street Improvement Master Plan Committee jtÜx Wxá|zÇá (DSIMPIC), Environmental Task Force, Parks, Trails & Recreation Commission, Planning Y|Çx ]xãxÄÜç á|Çvx DLJJ Commission, Public Art Committee, Senior Services Commission, Youth Commission and 3645 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette’s representative to the Contra Costa County Advisory Council on Aging. Lafayette between Trader Joes & the Post Office Lafayette is a community that prides itself on its strong volunteer participation. For 283-2988 information about these vacancies and the responsibilities of each of these bodies please visit www.waredesigns.com our website. www.lovelafayette.org Applications can be downloaded from our webpage or 50% off contact city offices (925-284-1968) and an application will be mailed to you. Watch Battery Now $5, Reg $10 1 watch battery per person. Exp. 3/31/14. All positions are OPEN UNTIL FILLED. Tuesday-Saturday 10-6 Usually installed while you wait. W/coupon. Restrictions apply. Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A3 Free Women and Wealth Workshop Two Great Lamorinda#%&' Lifestyle Properties! Conversation-Coffee-Treats Single Level with Play Room Managing Stock Market Risk Workshop • Financial planning with a safety net • Managing and mitigating stock market risk • Managing your Investments • Knowing when to buy and sell

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Valley Still Challenging Coming Soon! By Cathy Tyson n application to build two ports. He concluded that the appli- Ahomes on a pair of steep, cant Melcor Homes has “met and fairly constrained vacant parcels exceeded the sight distance re- on Happy Valley Road continues quirement,” and adjusted the archi- to have issues. The initial build- tecture to be smaller and set back ing request for the project came into the hillside. in late 2011, with public hearings Longtime city engineer Tony starting in 2012. At that time the Coe reviewed the grading and Lafayette Planning Commission drainage plans along with sight 3 Julianna Court, Moraga didn’t support city staff’s recom- distance plans, and has had mul- Fabulous traditional estate in Sanders Ranch at a very private location next to open space. mendation to approve the project. tiple conversations with con- :+'"*&"&****&* It was discussed again in August cerned neighbors and the project Offered at $2,750,000 www.3 JuliannaCt.com of 2013 and the project recently engineer; he is satisfied with the returned to the commission with plans. design plans that have been ad- Nearby neighbors spoke out justed in response to concerns against the homes, describing about the size and mass of the how they will “loom” over Happy structure, drainage – an especially Valley Road and urging commis- sensitive topic to downhill neigh- sioners to consider another hy- ELENA HOOD bors – and sight distance to the drology report and continue to RREALEAL ESTATE GRGROUPOUP shared, sloped driveway along reduce the size of the homes, and Orinda - Lafayetteyg - Moraga busy Happy Valley Road. commenting on the enormous The Phase I Hillside Develop- amount of impervious surface ment Permit would approve the that would be created if they were Visit www.Orinda.com 925-254-3030 siting and massing of two new, built. CA BRE 1221247 approximately 5,600 and 5,700 Planning commissioner Tom gross square foot, two-story Chastain pointed out that these homes; this measurement in- are legal lots and the owner has a cludes living and garage areas. right to build there. Combined, the two properties After some discussion about total over 12.5 acres, but only a the retaining walls, the water relatively small section of the runoff situation, building sizes long narrow lots are buildable, and expressing confidence in the TIME TO MAKE A MOVE? even with considerable soil reme- city engineer and his review, diation. commissioners preferred to have Designer Steven Kubitscheck a west side entrance to the prop- Have you been putting off a move, responded to planning commis- erty and supported a 20 percent waiting for the market to pick up? sioners at their Feb. 18 meeting, reduction in the size of the house This could be the year and Pamela is HERE to help! “We’ve done what you’ve asked us on the eastern side of the prop- Pamela Halloran to do.” He explained that the appli- erty. They also voiced their con- ... She’s been Listing and Selling in cants have met with the neighbors cerns about the capacity of the LaMorinda for over 25 years. and “tried to satisfy them to the ex- property. Tom Chastain opined tent possible,” and prepared an en- that it is “hard to definitively say gineer’s report, that included a how much is too much.” Phase 1 Pamela Halloran Call Pamela @ 925.323.4100 sight distance evaluation by third was approved; Phase II will be Real Estate Broker Explore the possibilities party National Data and Surveying discussed in March with the De- Services, and two hydrology re- sign Review Commission. [email protected] | PamelaHalloran.com | License #: 00936191 Share your thoughts, insights and opinions with your community. Send a letter to the editor: [email protected]

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Town Council 925.200.2222 Gary Special meeting: 925.878.9685 Ken Wednesday, Feb. 26, 6 p.m. [email protected] Regular meeting: [email protected] License #: 00686144 | 01418309 Wednesday, Feb. 26, 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 12, 7 p.m. SDFL´FXQLRQFRP_$0HPEHURI5HDO/LYLQJ Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School, 1010 Camino Pablo Planning Commission Moraga Council Steps (Almost) into 21st Century Monday, March 3, 7 p.m. By Sophie Braccini Moraga Library, 1500 St. Mary’s Rd. atching a Town Council recorded, in the new council cham- The equipment purchased for you can select which information Design Review Wmeeting from the comfort ber before the end of the year. $165,000 includes three high defini- channel you want to monitor. The Monday, March 10, 7 p.m. and privacy of your home, maybe Those who want to see the action tion remote controlled cameras with guest Wi-Fi Internet will be accessible Moraga Library, 1500 St. Mary’s Rd. with a glass of Chardonnay by your as it unfolds will still have to attend production switcher for live event to anyone flowing into the room, ac- side, is a patriot's dream about to the meetings in person; the initial recording, three high definition wall- cessed from a laptop or one of the two Check online for agendas, meeting notes and announcements come true in Moraga – as long as system does not include the creation mounted displays, switchable to view onsite computers. The EOC system Town of Moraga: you're not in too much of a hurry. of a Moraga channel that would sources including table/podium also supports live broadcast to the In- www.moraga.ca.us On Feb.15, the Moraga Town Coun- broadcast live streaming. “We mounted laptop connection stations, ternet for public announcements,” at Phone: (925) 888-7022 cil approved the purchase of an thought about it,” said Keimach, “but two computer sources, one document an additional cost that would be mar- Chamber of Commerce: audio-visual system for the soon to the problem would be to populate camera, Apple Air-Play devices and ginal in the context of an emergency. www.moragachamber.org be completed council chamber at (the channel) between meetings.” DVD/Blu-Ray sources, and four as- Since the new council chamber Moraga Citizens’ Network: 331 Rheem Blvd. that will enable the The solution is to use Contra Costa sisted hearing devices with multiple will have Wi-Fi, Councilmember www.moragacitizensnetwork.org town to broadcast public meetings. TV, but that’s shared by several ju- microphone inputs. Silicon Connec- Mike Metcalf asked about going The first delay is temporary – the risdictions and is unavailable at the tion will set up the control room with paperless during meetings. “I can School Board Meeting retrofit of 331 Rheem Blvd. is not time the Town Council meets. “The a production desk outfitted with cam- just use my computer during the Moraga School District quite finished and some electrical meetings will be available to be era and video production-editing ca- meeting and will not have to carry Tuesday, March 11, 7:30 p.m. work needs to be done before the viewed online and on TV within 24 pabilities. all the pages of the packet,” he sug- Joaquin Moraga Intermediate system can be installed. Town man- to 48 hours,” promises Keimach. A “We get $35,000 a year of grant gested. Keimach said the idea is School Auditorium ager Jill Keimach predicts that the live Internet stream is possible but, money from Comcast that we have possible, but to go completely pa- 1010 Camino Pablo, Moraga first meetings will be held, and due to the additional cost, would be never spent and that will cover the perless the town would need to ac- www.moraga.k12.ca.us used only in an emergency. capital cost,” explained Keimach. quire software that would allow See also AUHSD meeting page A2 “Silicon Connections, LLC will “We’ll recruit interns to operate the council members to annotate re- design, furnish, install and provide cameras during the meetings,” she ports online. training on a complete audio-visual added, noting that the Planning, De- Metcalf also asked about re- Moraga Police and IT system for the Town of Mor- sign Review and Parks and Recre- mote display of the meeting in a aga Council Chambers,” said its ation meetings could also be larger facility, such as the nearby Department principal, Mark Dahlen, during the recorded. Rheem Theatre, in case more resi- meeting. Keimach reminded the Because 331 Rheem Blvd. is out- dents are expected to attend a Town Council that video recording fitted with a power generator and bat- meeting than will fit into the coun- D.U.I. 2/17/14 A 17-year-old Car vs. leg 2/15/14 A 65-year- of council meetings, intended to in- teries for uninterrupted electricity, the cil chamber, which has a capacity driver was pulled over for old driver was attempting to crease transparency in local govern- system will also be useful in a disas- of 60. “You can do that anywhere speeding on Camino Pablo at 1 park on Augusta Drive and a.m. The officer on duty no- failed to put her Nissan Sentra ment, has been on the agenda since ter. “In case of an emergency, all you that has an internet connection,” ticed the smell of alcohol and into park as she exited the vehi- 2006. “But to make this happen, the have to do is to push the ‘EOC’ button confirmed Dahlen. “All you need non-burnt marijuana coming cle. The driver got tangled up town needed to have its own meeting to put the system in the emergency is a projector and a small decoder. from the inside of the car. The in her safety belt, fell to the room where the equipment can be command center mode,” explained Sending the video and audio some- teen driver flunked his field so- ground, and the car ran over her permanently installed,” she said. Dahlen. “Monitors will come up and where else is very easy.” briety test and to make matters leg. She complained of pain worse a small amount of sus- and was taken to John Muir pected cocaine was found on Medical Center by the fire de- Moraga’s First Development Agreement the driver. partment.

Pajama fireworks? 2/15/14 A Large party, 2/15/14 Cops were Stumbles Over Pedestrian Bridge male subject was found stand- dispatched to Country Club By Sophie Braccini ing on a fire trail near Mulhol- Drive on a report of a loud party land Ridge dressed in a T-shirt with approximately 100 col- and pajama pants in the rain at lege-age people inside and out- 10:15 p.m. and was reported to side the residence drinking have fireworks. When an offi- alcoholic beverages. It was cer tried to contact the fellow only 11 p.m. but apparently Skatepark from 50 yards away, he began guests were already on their to growl and hiss, then took a way out when their hosts were fighting stance and refused to issued a “Loud or Unruly Party Proposed North bridge talk. With help from Lafayette Warning” notice. Moraga Commons Park police the individual was ap-

Moraga Road proached and he attempted to Dirty pool, 2/12/14 Moraga po- New Passive Park fight with the cops, never a lice officers were flagged down good choice. In police lingo, a by a Redwing Place resident Conducted Energy Device (a who stated someone dumped taser) was deployed, but the dirt in her pool and then used a subject continued to violently pool brush to spread the dirt struggle and was eventually around. Unfortunately the St. Mary’s Road handcuffed. The gentleman homeowner didn’t see or hear Proposed South bridge later stated he wanted the offi- anything suspicious. Future dirt cers to hurt him and that he also devils beware, extra patrols will wanted “suicide by cop.” He be cruising the neighborhood. was placed on a ‘danger to self’ hold and taken to the Contra In addition, the following Costa County Regional Med- crimes were reported between ical Center by the Moraga- Feb. 11 and Feb. 18: Map data Google maps, labeled by Lamorinda Weekly Orinda Fire District where he potential new crosswalk on and Town Council. The proposed merhill Homes as part of the de- was seen by a mental health Loud party Rheem Blvd Moraga Road, in the vicin- crosswalk would connect the velopment agreement for acreage professional. Petty theft Redfield Pl A ity of the Lamorinda Skatepark, is Commons Park with a new pas- lying between Camino Ricardo Grand theft Deerfield Dr at the crux of a debate between sive park, via a pedestrian bridge and Moraga Road. Panhandling, 2/15/14 Police False alarms Moraga Rd, made contact with a 43-year- Merrill Circle South, Moraga’s Planning Commission that will be constructed by Sum- ...continued on page A11 old Concord resident who was Spyglass Ln panhandling at a large grocery Danger to self Moraga Wy store with his pit bull. He told Soliciting several police he was simply looking neighborhoods for employment. He left with- Vandalism Miramonte Dr out incident after he was given Tampering with a vehicle a warning. Nothing really says Miramonte Dr approachable like a pit bull. Identity theft Birchwood Dr Battery Lenelle Ct

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Improving Access to Sports Facilities in Moraga By Sophie Braccini ports are taken very seriously by polindo; the Moraga Sports Al- town itself does not own many sports Severyone who has something to liance’s Harry Crouch, Chris Maher, fields. The sand volleyball courts at do with youth and recreation in Mor- Ken Towers and Judy McNeil; the Commons Park have been used aga. This was evidenced on Feb. 10 Charles McNulty and Shari Simon of by the college as additional courts for when the “Who’s Who” of town staff the Moraga School District Govern- large competitions and both the and educational institutions met to ing Board; and Park and Recreation Commons and Rancho Laguna parks discuss how to improve the availabil- commissioner Phil Crosby. Jay In- are used for sports practice by ity of sports facilities for residents. gram, parks and recreation director, younger age groups and for informal The Town Council, the Moraga is the staff liaison. games. The school district, the high School District and the Moraga Ingram summarized the three ob- school and the college own the bulk Sports Alliance were all present – jectives of the subcommittee: To es- of the sports facilities. and, more unusually, the heads of tablish a complete list of existing During the first meeting the rep- Campolindo High School and Saint sports and recreation facilities be- resentatives of the Moraga Sports Al- Mary’s College also joined in to dis- longing to the town, the school dis- liance did not say much. Josh Weaver, cuss the sharing of sports facilities trict, the high school and the college; of the CYO basketball league, said within the town. Together they form to establish joint use agreements for later that sports groups in Moraga are a subcommittee that will meet cross-use of the facilities; and to dis- challenged by the lack of facilities. In monthly for about nine months. cuss possible long term joint projects Moraga, CYO teaches basketball to The Joint Ad Hoc Facilities Plan- that will increase the availability of about 240 boys and girls from second ning Subcommittee is comprised of facilities. to eighth grade. It has access to only James Donahue, president of Saint The first meeting of the commit- two half-size courts at Camino Pablo Mary’s College; town council mem- tee was entirely dedicated to the in- and Los Perales elementary schools bers Dave Trotter and Mike Metcalf; ventory of the recreation and sports and one court at the middle school. John Walker, principal of Cam- facilities that exist in Moraga. The ... continued on page A11

Hetfield Continuation he Moraga Planning Commission was scheduled could provide meaningful feedback. Tto discuss the General Development Plan for the The Hetfield project proposes seven new homes on Hetfield Estates project on Feb. 18, but the item was con- 58.2 acres of MOSO land located across a creek off tinued to March 3 after the project’s neighbors noted that Sanders Drive in Moraga. The Conceptual Development the package was made public right before a long weekend Plan was approved and the Environmental Impact Report when many people were out of town and the complexity for the project was certified in 2012. of the documents required additional study time so they S. Braccini

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Delightful 3 BR 2BA rancher in the desirable Charming Villa Madrid condo in a serene wooded Lovely Waterford Middleton condo located on the Gorgeous craftsman! Complete & stylish remodel Clayton Valley Highlands neighborhood. setting with peek-a-boo hill views from the 3rd floor with pleasant views from the spacious featuring 3 BR including spacious master suite w/ Updated kitchen & bath, efficient floor balconies. This home is in pristine condition and balcony. This home is in move-in condition and walk in closet & gorgeous bath. Both baths have plan, hardwood floors throughout, & level features a fireplace, walk-in pantry, inside laundry located near the elevator for easy access to the double sinks & granite counter tops. Hardwood backyard with dog run. Walk to 9 years of and more. Updated with dual-pane windows. Just dining room. Dues include a daily meal, weekly floors, great room w/ vaulted ceilings, patio doors, schooling. four stairs to the front door and carport nearby. cleaning service & more! gourmet kitchen, attached garage, & so much Call for details. Larry Jacobs 925.788.1362 Offered at $412,000 by Elizabeth Haslam Offered at $310,000 by Elizabeth Haslam more! Offered at $537,000 by Ruth Eddy, and Kress Hauri 925.899.5739. 925.899.5097 and Ann Cantrell 925.639.7970. 925.899.5097 and Ann Cantrell 925.639.7970. 925.788.9567. CalBRE#01495118/#01465617 CalBRE#01494942/#01058289 CalBRE#01494942/#01058289 CalBRE#01313819

1124 Flowerwood Place, Walnut Creek 958 28th St, Oakland

PENDING PENDING Thinking of Selling in Late Spring or Summer…… Why wait! It’s a great time to sell in Lamorinda. Our inventory is exceptionally low. Homes are selling in most cases withMULTIPLE offers at well OVER the asking price. Why? High, High Demand and Low, Low Supply! Interest rates are still very favorable, which Attractive two-story home on cul de sac is ideal Huge 6088 SF Live/Work Loft converted with brings a flood of Buyers to the market! IT IS A SELLERS MARKET, for entertaining with remodeled gourmet kitchen character, including a brick walls, hardwood and over 3200 sf. Huge backyard features floors and vaulted ceilings. Living area has 3 TAKE ADVANTAGE! Don’t miss out! saltwater pool with solar heat, auto-cover plus bedrooms and 2.5 baths plus potentially 8-10 separate spa. Four bedrooms are upstairs plus rooms. Warehouse has a light-filled main area Whether you are considering Selling or Buying, Call us. We are downstairs office too. Custom finishes, new and 28' ceilings. Energy efficient with solar happy to answer any of your questions about the current real carpet, Venetian plaster. Offered at $998,000 electric system. Offered at $650,000 by by Jim Colhoun 925.200.2795. Maureen Caldwell Meurer 510.915.0092. estate market and/or the value of your home! CalBRE#01029160 CalBRE#01908929 Meet our Featured Agents ...

Ruth Eddy Kress Hauri/Larry Jacobs Tomi Izuno Elizabeth Haslam/Ann Cantrell Sheri Wedlake 925.788.5449 925.899.5739/925.788.1362 925.890.9785 925.899.5097/925.639.7970 925.324.2091 89 Davis Road Suite 100, Orinda [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] CalBRE#01313819 [email protected] CalBRE#00975179 [email protected] CalBRE#00872175 925.254.0440 CalBRE#01465617/#01495118 CalBRE#01494942/#01058289 www.bhghome.com/Orinda find all Agents at www.bhghome.com/Orinda Our Orinda office is uniquely positioned as a gateway for sellers and buyers around the Bay Area; a central hub for our 30 Better Homes and Gardens offices. Page: A6 LAMORINDA WEEKLYwww.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014 Coming Soon! In the Sleepy Hollow area, this wonderful five bedroom, four bath home features a large kitchen that opens to the family room and a spacious master bedroom retreat. Civic News Set on a beautiful, flat lot with a Public Meetings pool, spa, multiple entertainment Peter & Darlene City Council Hattersley areas and bonus play area, this Craftsman-inspired, updated Tuesday, March 4, 7 p.m. home will be coming soon. Call Peter for more details, 925.708.9515. Auditorium, Orinda Library, 26 Orinda Way 925.360.9588 925.708.9515 www.TheHattersleys.com CalBRE# r00445794, CalBRE# 01181995 ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Planning Commission Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 Tuesday, March 11, 7 p.m. Auditorium, Orinda Library, 26 Orinda Way The Dollars and Sense of Orinda’s Financial Operations Citizens' Infrastructure By Laurie Snyder Oversight Commission Wednesday, March 12, 6:30 p.m. the city’s budget committee to tap the brain- the city’s website is more robust, and staff re- Sarge Littlehale Community Room, power of financial and investment profession- ports at council meetings contain reader- 22 Orinda Way als living locally, the FAC is charged via friendly budget graphics. Resolution 75-08 to “serve in a broader advi- “What they really need is some time,” said Check online for agendas, meeting sory capacity for all financial matters related to Thompson in describing residents considering notes and announcements City operations” while advising city leaders in volunteering for a commission or committee. City of Orinda: a manner that does not conflict with the Mu- “Not an inordinate amount. Just a commitment www.cityoforinda.org nicipal Code. Its seven at-large voting members to doing things right, a willingness to learn and Phone (925) 253-4200 are Orinda residents appointed by the City collaborate, and a modest skill set and (good) Chamber of Commerce: Council to serve three-year terms as unpaid attitude.” www.orindachamber.org volunteers. At least one council member serves Stanford trained, Thompson works as a The Orinda Association: annually as liaison. Committee members re- portfolio manager for a privately held Bay Area www.orindaassociation.org view and recommend changes to Orinda’s pro- investment management firm. In addition to School Board Meeting posed budget and statement of investment volunteering with Orinda’s FAC, he serves as policy, attend budget-related meetings, and ad- a member of the board of directors for the Orinda Union School District vise the City Council and staff on other finan- United Way of the Bay Area, the investment Monday, March 10, 6 p.m. cial matters as appropriate. committee for the Girl Scouts of Northern Cal- OUSD Office, Vintage Building “It’s great to have people knowledgeable in ifornia and as board vice president for the Bay 25 Orinda Way, Suite 200 these areas,” observed Thompson of the roles Area Financial Education Foundation. www.orindaschools.org Orindans play on the city’s diverse commis- He has also served, since 2009, as the board See also AUHSD meeting page A2 sions and committees. Serving on one, he said, secretary for the Cavalla Historical Society in you realize how many neighbors are giving Galveston, Texas that is dedicated to preserving Bob Thompson Photo Ohlen Alexander back. He devotes about an hour and a half, once the USS Cavalla, a memorial to World War II e’re an excellent sounding board,” a month to the FAC, with occasional home- submariners. “Wsaid Bob Thompson recently when work. “You don’t have to be expert in every- Like another great fighter, Muhammad Ali, asked about one of Orinda’s most important thing,” he said. “It’s great to have a forum to Thompson clearly believes that “Service to oth- volunteer groups – the City of Orinda’s Finance query people and say, ‘What about this? Edu- ers is the rent that we pay for our room here on Orinda Police Department Advisory Committee. “We bring different eyes cate me.’” earth,” and hopes more and more residents will Incident summary report, and brains and perspective to their concerns Those collective volunteer hours have pro- offer their talents. Feb. 2-8 and reports, and we also look at things from a duced change. When the Contra Costa County The Finance Advisory Committee meets Alarm calls: 27 consumer point of view – from a citizen point Grand Jury required cities to help county resi- publicly in the Community Room at City Hall of view.” dents better understand financial operations, on the fourth Wednesday of each month, begin- Auto Burglary: Dalewood Dr The longtime Orindan has been a member Orinda’s leaders asked the FAC for help. ning at 6 p.m. To learn about volunteering, visit of the FAC since its inception. Formed Dec. 16, “There were some people on that committee the City of Orinda’s website: www.city- Suspicious Vehicle Stops: 2008 when the Orinda City Council modified that brought wonderful ideas forward.” Now, oforinda.org. Glorietta Elementary El Sueno Spring Road Roads Bond Measure Headed for the Ballot? El Camino/Camino Sobrante By Laurie Snyder Wilder Fields (3) Dalewood Dr/Lombardy Ln rinda is a small town with a prove the revised 10-year plan Feb. Calling for a $20 Million General Council decides to place a bond El Toyonal Osmall budget. Roughly $10.6 18, city leaders considered a Reso- Obligation Bond Election (14-02) – measure on the June or November million is spent annually to operate lution of Public Convenience and the prior approval of both being re- ballot. Suspicious Person/Circum- recreation programs which keep res- Necessity (14-14) and Ordinance quired by state law if the City ... continued on next page stances: idents healthy, beautify city parks, Camino Pablo/Miner Rd provide police protection, conduct Knickerbocker Ln elections, and maintain city roads Orinda Theatre (2) and storm drains. Its residents are Tappan Ln generally happy as evidenced by Nations Forbes’ declaration of Orinda as Silver Oak Tr America’s second friendliest city. Donald Dr There is one word, though, Safeway which produces an immediate Northwood Ct/Northwood Dr buzzkill when uttered – roads. La Campana Rd During the past decade, the City of Orinda has devoted roughly $2.3 Arrests: million annually to its infrastructure. WB 24/Fish Ranch Rd But with 92.5 miles of roads to maintain and an underlying network Warrants: Hall Dr of storm drains that were already Camino Pablo (3) aging when the county transferred control to Orinda upon Reckless Driving: incorporation, city leaders have been San Pablo Dam /Bear Creek Rds forced to channel funds to areas Camino Pablo/Manzanita Dr impacting the greatest number of people. Smaller residential roads Panhandling: began crumbling as storm drains Orinda Wy/Santa Maria Wy failed, flooding neighborhoods, sparking legal action and forcing Petty Theft: Greenwood Ct costly fixes that further strained city coffers. Missing Juvenile: Westwood Ct So in July 2012, the Orinda City Council enacted a battle strategy. Vehicle Theft: Tappan Ln Known as the “10 Year Roads and Drainage Repairs Plan,” it outlines “four phases in which the City will fund, plan and manage the construc- tion and repair of public roads and drains,” costing $52 million when Share your thoughts, completed. Phase 1, a 0.5 percent insights and opinions sales tax hike approved by voters in 2012 (Measure L), is already show- with your community. ing promise. City officials believe it will generate close to $1 million per year over the 10-year life of the tax. Send a letter to Now, the City Council is signal- the editor: ing its readiness to launch phase two – asking voters to support a $19.8 million bond which, if ap- letters@lamorinda proved in 2014, would provide the weekly.com city with an additional $3.3 million to spend on repairs each year for six years, starting in 2015. In addition to debating whether or not to ap- Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A7 BuildingCertified in LamorindaGreen Builder Since 1999 Integrity Knowledge Results

Specializing in the Sale of McCartt Fine Homes and Property Construction Inc. Customm Homesome & Renovations View MLS Listings online at LamorindaValues.com Frank Woodward Realtor®, Previews Property Specialist

“As seen on” T. 925.788.4963

“AsAs heard on HG RadioRadio” E. [email protected] Build It GREEN Smart Solutions from the Ground Up CalBRE# 01335916. ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 Roads Bond Measure Headed for the Ballot? ... continued from page A6 ture deferred maintenance deficit, it and drain improvements” to ease consent calendar of the City Coun- does not provide enough money to worries that bond funds could be di- cil’s agenda at its next regularly either fund the entire deficit or pro- verted to other city projects. Ordi- scheduled meeting March 4 and will vide future maintenance to prevent nance 14-02 will appear on the likely be approved at that time. the deficit from growing back to original levels within 15 years.” Representing the CIOC, Terry Murphy stated that the committee voted unanimously to approve the 10-year plan, and urged council members to ensure that wording on the ballot make clear to voters that money raised by the proposed bond will be used on roads. Ultimately, council members de- Greenwood Court, PCI Photos courtesy City of Orinda layed finalizing the 10-year plan, Taking up most of the City ing the phased, incremental plan he electing to clarify key points based Council’s nearly 4-hour meeting, the observed, “That’s been the way that on citizen input. A revised version discussion included presentations by we have done things in this country will be discussed at a future meeting. city staff and bond consultants, as since colonial days.” The City Council then adopted an well as residents for and against the Orindan Steve Cohn asked the amended version of the Resolution plan. Brad Barber called the roads City Council to delay action, ex- of Necessity on a 5-0 vote before in- situation a “municipal embarrass- pressing concern that the Citizens’ troducing the bond ordinance in its ment” that “negatively affects essen- Infrastructure Oversight Committee amended form. Changes to the doc- tially everyone in the city,” noting (CIOC) had not been given enough uments included reducing the bond’s that “with the passage of the sales tax time to review the 4-phase plan and maturity date from 40 to 30 years, increase … we have begun to see calling it deficient. “While it pur- and changing the phrase “municipal some real improvements.” Support- ports to address Orinda’s infrastruc- improvements” to “municipal road Keith Drive, PCI 35

ORINDA $2,095,000 ORINDA $6,300,000 4/4. New construction! Gorgeous The Real Estate Firm people trust 4/4.2. Rare opportunity to buy newer view, nice lg yard, quality materials.Cul- estate plus two adjacent lots. Gated, wine de-sac loc. www.orindaoaks.com cellar, gorgeous grounds w/pool & more! The Beaubelle Group CalBRE#00678426 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247

PENDING

OAKLAND $1,100,000 ORINDA $1,798,000 LAFAYETTE $1,249,000 LAFAYETTE $849,000 ORINDA $996,000 3/3. Stunning contemporary townhome 4/3.5. Orinda Downs Luxury through 4/3.1. Resort-Style Living! Sprawling lot 3/2. This is one you’ve been waiting for. 2/2. Rarely available Orindawood single w/sweeping views of SF and the Bay. and through. Private deck w/hot tub w/privacy, pool, fire pit, outdoor Kit., Move in ready. Lafayette schools, story detached home. Entertain on the Exquisite interior features. off Mstr. water features and much more! minutes to BART and freeways. expansive deck. Views! Linda Van Drent CalBRE#01051129 Vlatka Bathgate CalBRE#01390784 Dave Rivera & Sheila Small CalBRE01705345/01415221 Lana Fitzpatrick CalBRE# 01805218 Maureen Wilbur CalBRE#01268536

PENDING PENDING

WALNUT CREEK $975,000 PLEASANT HILL $984,900 MORAGA $2,750,000 ORINDA $2,175,900 ORINDA $1,495,000 4/3. Charm & character abound in this 4/3. Rare,2962 SqFt on big lot w/ 4+/4. Executive home, 4837 sqft, 1.54 4+/3. New construction. Gorgeous 4/3.5. Sunny oasis. Remodeled well maintained home. Iron Horse Trail bedroom & full bath on main lvl.Big acre private lot, gourmet kitchen, guest views, close to town. More pics/info at throughout. Pool,spa w/large deck & access. WC schools! bonus room upstairs. house, wine cellar. OrindaOaks.com. lawn for play.Bonus inlaw suite. Val Durantini CalBRE#01376796 Jeannette Bettencourt CalBRE#01154506 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 The Beaubelle Group CalBRE#00678426 Laura Abrams CalBRE#01272382

PENDING PENDING

MORAGA $1,150,000 MORAGA $829,000 MORAGA $1,189,000 MORAGA $1,288,000 WALNUT CREEK $699,000 4/2. Completely updated single level, 4/2. MCC! Spacious & wonderful 2486 4/3. Striking Contemporary. Views 3/2. Lovely one story contemporary 3/2. Single lvl home w/open floor plan. 2160 sf, great playroom, nice backyard, sq. ft detached home, close to trails w/a abound in this 2 level on a cul-de-sac. with great views. Lrg rear patio, great Nice flat backyard. Close to schools, .35 acres. great family room. for entertaining. parks & BART. Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 The Holcenberg’s CalBRE#01373412/00637795 Jerry Wendt CalBRE#00178259 Woodcox/Wilbur CalBRE# 01923630/01268536

PLEASANT HILL $529,000 ORINDA $995,000 ORINDA $979,000 LAFAYETTE $1,299,000 ORINDA $2,100,000 3/3.5. Great Value & spacious Living. 4/2.5. Creek side setting in heart of OCC 5/2.5. Gorgeous Executive home in golf 3/3. Spectacular Mid-Century Modern 4/3. New construction. Gorgeous views, Peaceful, light and bright! Bonus room area! Great floor plan w/ hardwood course community. Views of Reliez Valley in Zen-like Setting. Designed for close to town. More pics/info at and more! floors. Walk to Bart and village. & Mt.Diablo Enjoyment & Relaxation! OrindaOaks.com. Andi Brown CalBRE#01738605 Jerry Wendt CalBRE#00178259 Jeannette Bettencourt CalBRE#01154506 Soraya Golesorkhi CalBRE# 01771736 The Beaubelle Group CalBRE#00678426

5 Moraga Way | Orinda | 925.253.4600 californiamoves.com 2 Theatre Square, Suite 211 | Orinda | 925.253.6300

©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Cal BRE License # 01908304 Page: A8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Share your thoughts with our community! Opinions in Letters to the Editor are the express views of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. All published letters will include the writer's name and city/town of residence -- we will only accept letters from those who live in, or own a business in, the communities comprising Lamorinda (please give us your phone number for verification purposes only). Letters should be 350 words or less; letters of up to 500 words will be accepted on a space-available basis. email: [email protected]; Regular mail: Lamorinda Weekly, P.O.Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570 Editor: I read with sadness that the venerable old valley oak tree next to the historic Casa Verana in Orinda fell down in the recent storms. However, I was not surprised that this happened. The property owners caused this to happen by burying the roots around the tree with soil and planing an irrigated lawn around the tree. This is a death sentence for native oaks. Native oaks have evolved in an ecosystem of summer drought and need to have their roots in dry soil during California's dry season. If they are subjected to year around moisture, the roots will develop dry rot and will not be able to support the weight of the tree and the tree will eventually fall to a premature death. Any Lamorinda readers that have a majestic native oak in their yard should reconsider watering any surrounding landscaping if they want their oaks to survive. I know it looks beautiful to have a green lawn or lush shrubs sur- rounding beautiful old oaks but know that, at some point in the future, the trees will not survive. Fred Smith Orinda

Editor: In a survey of Orinda voters commissioned by the Orinda City Council, We still do “Seven in 10 voters would initially support a $20 million bond measure” to 24/7 live-in fix Orinda's roads (Lamorinda Weekly, Feb. 12). care! The results of the survey were presented to the city council on Feb. 4. The survey was conducted by the FM3 company, located in Oakland. A key question is this: Does Orinda need to pass any kind of bond measure High Quality, Affordable Live-In CCare to fix the city's deteriorating roads? According to an Orinda environmental group, Orinda Watch, sufficient money Having trouble finding compassionate around-the-clock home care that fits your family’s needs is already being collected from gasoline taxes to fund Orinda's bad roads. and budget? Call Home Care Assistance!Weare the East Bay’s live-in specialists! That’s because we offer: Orinda Watch argues that Orinda does not need a bond measure for road re- pair. Consistent Dependable Care. We typically assign a primary caregiver 4 days a week and a secondary caregiver who covers the remaining days. (Some agencies alternate up to 4 different Orinda Watch, in a statement released on Feb. 12, says that Plan Bay Area, a proj- caregivers in one day!) ect calling for the construction of high-density, high-rise housing in Orinda and Total Peace of Mind. Rest easy knowing your loved one’s needs are attended to at all times. elsewhere, “takes massive amounts of public funds from gas tax revenues that Live-in care ensures optimal safety and is personalized to each client’s individual needs. should go to road maintenance and diverts them to mass transit subsidies …” Professional Oversight. Live-in caregivers are managed by a team of client care managers to The statement adds: “These diversions of gas tax revenue have been practiced make sure our clients’ experiencesarealways positive. You don’t just hire a caregiver, you hire by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) for many years …“ our full team of seasoned care professionals. MTC is a regional governmental transportation agency whose directors and Reasonable Rates. ome Care Assistance hires and trains only the most qualified caregivers, officers have not been elected directly by voters. MTC's chairperson is Amy but our live-in rates are themost competitive in the industry. Call to learn more! Worth, who also sits on the Orinda City Council. MTC has not been shy about disclosing its intentions. In a report issued on Meet Jill. Jill Cabeceiras is the client care manager for the East Bay. She has May 10, 2010, MTC said that automobile pollutants (often called greenhouse- been working with older adults for more than ten years and is an expert on gas or GHG emissions) can be lowered. In the report, MTC stated: “Most of managing care within the home. Let Jill help you and your family! the GHG reductions that can be realized will result from how successful the region can be in moving toward more dense/mixed use transit oriented devel- Call Jill today to schedule your free assessment! opment and implementing creative ways to price the transportation system to adequately reflect the true costs of a limited resource.” 925-820-8390 • HomeCareAssistance.com It appears that MTC, rather than voters, is deciding how gasoline-tax money 190-G Alamo Plaza, Alamo, CA 94507 is to be spent. We've moved to Alamo! Until MTC's policies on spending gasoline-tax money are clarified, Orindans should not support any bond measure to fix the city's roads. Richard S. Colman Orinda

Editor Regarding Gordon Nathan’s letter of February 12. For those unfamiliar with Mr. Nathan’s history with MOFD, he was a Director of the District from its inception in 1997 through 2008. During that time pe- riod, the Board saw property tax revenue increase from $9 million to $16 mil- lion, growing at twice the rate of inflation, and yet managed to spend it all and put in place the current labor agreements that have caused the District to now be $90 million in debt. Any criticism from him of the current board, attempting to clean up the financial mess caused by their predecessors, must be taken with a grain of salt. As for his complaint that a claim by Orindan Keith Jacobsen that Orinda tax- payers are paying an inordinate portion of MOFD’s expenses is “nonsense”, is a baseless criticism. Mr. Nathan states Orinda taxpayers should pay more for service than Moraga taxpayers because they receive more service; and they do. This year Orinda taxpayers will pay about $11.8 million in property taxes to MOFD while Moraga taxpayers pay about $6.7. Mr. Nathan suggests that the total should be divided by the number of stations in Orinda (3) and Moraga (2). However, as a former director, he well knows that 90% of all expenses go to pay for the personnel who perform the services and not to maintain real estate. And with nine firefighters stationed in and serving Orinda (at a cost to taxpayers of $1.3 million per firefighter), and eight firefighters stationed in and serving Moraga (at a cost to taxpayers of $850,000 per firefighter), the inequity in funding is obvious. There is a solution to this problem which Orinda residents were promised would never happen when they voted to form MOFD. That is for Moraga taxpayers to pay their fair share, an average of $1.1 million per firefighter or about $2 million more than they are currently paying. That could happen, as Mr. Jacobsen suggested, by increasing the rate on the Parcel Tax Moragans agreed to before MOFD was formed but which has never been fully assessed. This extra money would not go back into the Orinda taxpayers’ pockets but would provide services they are paying for. These services could include a paramedic station in Sleepy Hollow to alleviate the fact that 40% of all Orinda emergencies are not responded to within MOFD’s response time guidelines; or vegetation control in large areas of Orinda that are considered very severe fire hazard zones due to excess vegetation as is now being done in Tilden Park; or repair some of the more than two dozen sub-standard fire hydrants which the fire flow parcel tax was supposed to address when it was voted for in 1997 but so far not a cent has been used for hydrants. Orinda residents and their City Council should demand that their MOFD rep- resentatives act on their behalf and Moraga’s MOFD representative should keep their half of the bargain. Steve Cohn Orinda $5.00 OFF $10.00 OFF Join our Public Forum If you have significant knowledge about an issue facing Lamorinda or one of its cities that requires more than the 350 words to which we must limit Letters to the Editor, don’t despair! You can submit any services $25.00 or more Shellac Manicure your letter to our Public Forum section. Just send your letter to [email protected] expires 3/15/14 expires 3/15/14 and let us know you’d like to be considered for the Public Forum. Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A9 Union Rallies Against MOFD Board By Nick Marnell loud, standing-room-only port your workers, you are going over the salary of his predecessor, lic, but the rank and file employees chief's large pay increase was that Acrowd of disgruntled fire- to hurt your chances of having a Randall Bradley. At the meeting, are able to put it in proper con- Healy would be taking a hit in fighters punctuated its message to successful organization.” Healy offered to amend his con- text.” He explained that the 9.5 loss of overtime from his prior the Moraga-Orinda Fire District “We don't deserve to be tract with a pay cut of 9.5 percent, percent pay reduction that the position as division chief. Wyro board of directors at the Feb. 19 treated like this,” said an emo- the same reduction in salary of- board presented to the firefighters also insisted that the pay reduc- district meeting: the rank and file tional Tim Hill, MOFD engineer- fered to the firefighters. would lower their pay to 2 percent tion amendment to Healy's con- are not happy with the direction paramedic. "I appreciate your leadership less than they made in 2006. The tract was not a predetermined of labor negotiations. Board president John Wyro on this," said director Fred Weil. comparable base salary for Healy ploy. In January the board made its assured the firefighters that noth- “I take it to mean that you are pre- should be $169,000, he said. “I can see how it might look last, best and final offer to Local ing has been imposed and negoti- pared to do whatever else devel- DeWeese did acknowledge that way, but that's definitely not 1230 of the firefighters' union. ations are ongoing. “Our goal is a ops out of the negotiations or appreciation for Healy's gesture. the case,” he said. The terms included a 9.5 percent sustainable fire district five years imposition with respect to the “But he is about $30,000 short of pay cut for one year. The board from now,” he said. “We are firefighters. On that basis I would putting (his salary reduction) on Moraga-Orinda declared an impasse; the union re- available to talk at any time, vote to approve this.” Healy said par with what he and the board Fire District jected the offer and has until Feb. about anything.” he understood that, at the will of are trying to force on the rest of Board of 27 to request state-mandated fact The most raucous ovation of the board, the term and the us,” he said. Directors finding. the evening came after DeWeese amount of the adjustment could The motion to amend Healy's Meetings MOFD union representative blasted the terms of a self-admin- change. contract passed 3-0; directors Next meetings: Mark DeWeese said that the istered pay cut requested by fire “The board is trying to market Alex Evans and Steve Anderson Wednesday, March 19 board, not the firefighters, needs chief Stephen Healy. this agenda item as the same pro- were absent. Wednesday, April 18 to be held accountable for its poor In November, the board ap- posed pay cut they are threatening Wyro later confirmed that the check website for updates financial decisions. “We are the proved an employment contract to impose on the firefighters,” said original negotiations with the (Go to www.mofd.org as the meeting ones out in the street doing the for Healy at an annual salary of DeWeese. “This move may de- chief were done in good faith. He date approaches for location and work,” he said. “If you don't sup- $220,000, more than $30,000 ceive a casual member of the pub- said that one of the reasons for the more information) Lafayette Task Force Inches Forward By Nick Marnell he Lafayette Emergency cial condition of the local fire dis- every district,” he said. “Orinda ConFire, MOFD and Cal Fire as A glimmer of cautious opti- TServices Task Force, tricts and a proposed fire station thinks it's subsidizing Moraga. potential candidates. mism arose at the Feb. 20 task charged with seeking alternatives 46 at the Lafayette-Orinda border, Brentwood thinks it's subsidizing Slower response times in force meeting. for the delivery of fire and emer- to be jointly owned and operated East County. I'm almost ready to western Lafayette since the clo- Andersson, who has been gency medical services to by ConFire and the Moraga- tell Brentwood to go ahead and sure of ConFire station 16 were pushing Carman and MOFD Lafayette residents, presented an Orinda Fire District. leave. They'll find out how good confirmed by task force co-chair chief Stephen Healy to move on update at the Feb. 10 City Coun- “There has been no intention they had it.” He concluded with Brandt Andersson, who compli- station 46, requested an update. cil meeting. It also received a lec- to insult you or the firefighters,” an admonition to the task force on mented fire chief Jeff Carman on Healy said the district is awaiting ture from the president of the said Councilmember Mike An- its priorities. “Fire should not be his willingness to at least consider results of environmental tests on firefighters' union. derson. “That's not the issue. minimized,” he said. new ideas for service delivery. the property, and after that, it will “Some of the things you've We're not getting what we're pay- The task force’s report to the Because of the deterioration of have architectural renderings of a been saying are insulting to us,” ing for, and the Board of Supervi- City Council outlined the bleak service, Andersson urged the City new station to show the commit- said Vince Wells, president of the sors is not giving us what we financial situation of both fire dis- Council to not close the door on tee. Carman said he is putting to- United Professional Firefighters want.” tricts, but it noted that MOFD has the idea of station 46, in spite of gether a presentation for the of Contra Costa County. “I have Task force co-chair Traci taken steps to address its prob- the current financial challenges. Board of Supervisors on the fi- never heard a discussion at your Reilly was just as direct. “Our lems. It specified that a detach- Mayor Dan Tatzin summa- nancing of the shared fire station. meetings about putting fires out. residents demand that we fix a ment from ConFire would be rized the direction from the City Commenting on the initial feed- All of the discussion has been on problem,” she said. “We are try- very difficult to accomplish with- Council. "What level of fire and back to his proposal, Carman ut- the finances.” The task force ing to do what's best for out a negotiated agreement on the emergency medical service do our tered a phrase not often heard the meetings have focused mostly on Lafayette.” allocation of assets. Reilly ex- residents want, and what will it past two years in discussions of the city's possible detachment Wells, a ConFire captain, tried plained that Lafayette is too small take to get us there?" he said. The fire district finances. from the Contra Costa County to downplay the city's frustration. to stand on its own, so contracting task force was given the go-ahead "I'm encouraged by it," he Fire Protection District, the finan- “I hear this same complaint in for fire service is an option – with to continue its investigation. said.

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Clinical Psychologist Jennifer McCollum, Ph.D. Retail App World 37 Avenida de Orinda, Orinda By Sophie Braccini www.bayareawomenswellness.com (925) 386-6037 Jennifer McCollum has come full circle. The Cam- polindo High School grad- uate who earned her Ph.D. from Temple University in Philadelphia and completed her postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford's School of Medicine, is expanding her practice, Bay Area Women's Wellness, to Orinda. She started her practice four years ago in Menlo Park, providing behavioral medi- Jennifer L. McCollum, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist cine for women. McCollum in her new Orinda office Photo provided works with women who are struggling with perinatal depression and anxiety (which includes the more commonly known postpartum depression), maternal stress (assisting moms in coping with the stresses and challenges of motherhood), infertility chal- lenges, medical illnesses, behavioral changes (such as weight loss), and general wellness/life challenges. The mother of two continues to work part time in Menlo Park. "I am also on the medical staff at Stanford Hospital and an affil- iated clinical instructor with the university," says McCollum, who specializes in “evidence-based treatments – treatments that have been shown to be effec- From left: Peter Jackson, Darby Anderson, Sandy Breber, Erin MacEwen, Jake McGuire and Paul Martinelli. tive through scientific research studies, in particular, cognitive-behavior ther- Photo Sophie Braccini apy," she says. "My work is collaborative and goal-oriented." The clinical andy Breber loves to shop, Jackson before. shops at sporting goods establish- psychologist does not contract with any specific insurance group and people Sbut she is also efficient and on The three wanted to develop a ments, surf shops, Target, or the wanting to work with her do not need a referral. She will discuss goals to be top of things, so she wants her re- service based on super-cheap Apple Store, “I keep my reward reached and the frequency of the visits. McCollum is also starting group work ceipts, reward and gift cards, her Cloud storage and smartphones. cards there as well because it is to address different topics: weight loss, behavior change, maternal stress (for coupons, to be organized and at "And that's when Sandy entered," easy and simple.” McInerny no- mothers of children 12 months and younger), and a life value group. her fingertips when she needs says Jackson. "She said that retail ticed that some retailers can send them; and preferably accessible is a mess, that people keep getting receipts to email addresses, and so Jennifer Perlmutter Gallery on her phone, the one device she papers (receipts, coupons) that he gives them his Ziploop email, 3620 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette never leaves home without. No end up in their purses (or wallets). and keeps everything organized www.JenniferPerlmutterGallery.com wonder Breber is one of the three They need them for returns, proof by category in one place. (925) 284-1485 f founders of Ziploop, Inc., the of purchase, warranties. Plus you Since the app is free, the com- In early February Jennifer Perlmutter opened her first gallery in Lafayette, on Orinda-based company which get a variety of things in the mail; pany needed a revenue stream. Mt. Diablo Boulevard, across from Diablo Foods. The contemporary abstract launched a new app four months and it is going to take five or six According to a Deloitte Consult- painter works on-site and exhibits her work there. To deepen the art experi- ago that digitizes and manages re- years for all that to become digi- ing LLP study, “The Dawn of the ence, she also plans to offer classes, demonstrations, book readings, and other ceipts, coupons, and promotions. tal." Jackson recalls that at this Mobile Influence,” “... customer events at the gallery. “I’ve been working out of a studio for almost 15 years, The local startup must be re- point in the conversation Mar- behaviors are changing pro- and it’s enabled me to create some very strong work. But it’s also been limit- sponding to a real need because it tinelli proposed the idea of taking foundly ... Consumer adoption of ing,” she says. “The gallery allows me to connect with people face to face and has already attracted more than an image of everything you have mobile is growing at an exponen- tell the story behind each piece. It’s a different way to dialogue through art.” 10,000 users and gets a new user in your purse and using an app to tial rate;” the same report also Perlmutter works in the rear studio, enabling conversation and access to the every couple of minutes, accord- sort it and organize it. notes that, "(among) consumers artist’s process. Different events have already been planned such as a poetry ing to Ziploop’s CEO Peter Jack- Ziploop also features tags that who are 25–34 years old: 65 per- reading/book signing in March and a family interactive nature event planned son. Ziploop does everything users can create to track purchases cent own a smartphone and 68 for April. Perlmutter will offer classes such as the Spring Break Art Camp for Breber wanted, and more – and by category. Breber keeps track of percent use it to help with shop- kids ages 9-12 from March 31 to April 4. Check her website for details. There it’s free to download and use. what she spends for each of her ping in a brick-and-mortar re- is a ribbon cutting ceremony scheduled at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 6 at the Ziploop is part of the new kids. She also loves the ‘safe’ tailer." Having reward cards, time gallery. world of cloud-hosted, digitized space where people can store sensitive promotions, and targeted shopping documents. Other apps items that are important to them in rebates sent directly to customers’ Refuge Community Church Celebrates 4-Year Anniversary include Gyft, Lemon Wallet and the long term. “You can use it to cell phones made sense; this is 155 Moraga Road, Moraga OneReceipt. The idea arose dur- store bills for big ticket items, or where Ziploop makes its money. www.refugecommunity.org ing a conversation between Bre- to keep different purchases to- "It costs companies 0.40 cents (925) 942-1000 ber, a former managing partner at gether as part of a larger project,” to a dollar to send loyalty cards or Refuge Community Church was founded four years ago by Pastor Ron Johnson, who rented a space at the Veterans Memorial Building in Lafayette. The church Anderson Consulting, and fellow she says. coupons in the mail, and they was then moved to its current location at 155 Moraga Rd., close to the Orindan Peter Jackson, an entre- And Ziploop is not only for don’t know what the response rate Lafayette/Moraga border. For the fourth anniversary of its founding, Refuge preneur with previous success in women, even though Breber is,” says Jackson, “but if you opt will be hosting a private showing of the new motion picture “Son of God” – business endeavors such as Granit wanted to give it a non-aggressive in and like five stores, then they scheduled to be released Feb. 28. Festivities will start at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, System; his first company, based look with soft colors – but no will populate your rewards (di- March 8 at the Rheem Theatre. The event is free and open to the public. For in Lafayette, had 7,800 employees pink. In fact, Home Depot rectly in the Ziploop account) and information, visit www.refugecommunity.org. when he sold it, and Orinda-based records are among the most fre- we would charge them only 0.10 Intraware was a software delivery quently stored. cents. And you will only get what and maintenance service that Dan McInerny is an early user you want.” News from the three Chambers of Commerce grew to $3 billion on the Nasdaq. of the application. “I like to keep Lafayette Lamorinda Weekly business articles are intended The third member of the trio is my receipts organized and have to inform the community about local business Paul Martinelli, code writer extra- them available if I need to return activities, not to endorse a particular company, Monthly mixer at Lafayette Physical Therapy from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, ordinaire, who has partnered with something,” says McInerny who product or service. March 12 at 3468 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite #B110. Free for chamber members.

Moraga Celebrating an Anniversary? Chamber mixer at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 25 at the Serbian Cultural Cen- If your business is celebrating a significant anniversary (5, 10, 20 years or more …) send us a photo of ter. your business, the owner(s) or the staff with specific information about your business and what you’re celebrating, and we’ll include it in an upcoming issue. Orinda The Orinda Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Tommy T's Comedy Clubs will host the fifth “Live at the Orinda” event March 7, with doors open- ing at 7 p.m. The line-up includes: returning stand-up comedian Kabir Singh (Kabeezy); Shea Suga, who’s been incredibly successful in the Bay Area; Cody Woods, one of the most hilarious and talented comedians today; Ellis Rodriguez, a favorite at comedy clubs including the Improv, Laugh’s Unlim- ited, Tommy T’s, PepperBelly’s, and the Laugh Factory; and Kirk McHenry who blends all of his life experiences together into a storytelling brand of com- edy that has been described by some as Bill Cosby with a Richard Pryor twist. Advance tickets are $35; $40 at the door. For information, visit orindacham- ber.org or call (925) 254-3909.

If you have a business brief to share, please contact Sophie Braccini at [email protected] Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A11 Civic News Moraga Moraga’s First Development Agreement Stumbles Over Pedestrian Bridge ... continued from page A4 As part of its 26-home project, The town now needs to resolve an point-of-sale for the construction Summerhill Homes will create, and inconsistency. The project plan, as ap- material used in the project, meaningGetWATER your yardSMART ready LANDSCAPING for spring time donate to the town, a 2.5-acre passive proved by the Planning Commission, that the town will collect the appli- park located between Rancho Laguna includes a southern bridge; while the cable sales tax. Shawna Brekke- Free Estimates Creek, where it flows along Moraga development agreement supported by Read, the town’s planning director, Road, and one of its tributaries – the the Town Council includes a northern highlighted the fact that Summerhill • Synthetic/Artificial Grass ٻۉےڼڧٻھۄۏۀۃۏۉ۔ڮ -new park would sit on a peninsula bridge. Homes went beyond what the Mor across from the skatepark. Pedestrian What’s a council member to do? aga municipal code requires – ac- • Design & Consult access to the park will require two “You can approve this (the develop- cording to current code the developer • New Landscape Installation ٻۏۇېێۉۊڞٻځٻۉۂۄێۀڟ bridges; one over the tributary and an- ment agreement), and give direction was obligated to dedicate only 0.265 other over Rancho Laguna Creek it- back to the Planning Commission that acres of park land and to build a side- • Re-Landscape & Remodel self to connect the new park to your expectation is to have a bridge walk only in front of the develop- Walkways & Driveways ٻۉۊۄۏڼۇۇڼۏێۉڤٻۀۋڼھێڿۉڼڧٻےۀکexisting trails. (in the northern part of the property),” ment. • Paver Where to bridge the creek is the Jill Keimach, the town manager, ad- Councilmember Dave Trotter • Hardscape ٻۇۀڿۊۈۀڭٻځٻۀۋڼھێڿۉڼڧڈۀڭ -question. vised the Town Council. Town staff tried nonetheless to convince his col Summerhill Homes proposed to has strongly supported the northern leagues to drive a harder bargain with build the bridge on the project’s bridge and crosswalk that would Summerhill Homes in negotiating the FREE DEMOLITION WITH INSTALL ٻێ۔ڼےۀۑۄۍڟٻځٻێ۔ڼےۆۇڼےٻۍۀۑڼګ northern edge, across from the allow visitors to park their cars at the development agreement. He wanted skatepark. The Planning Commis- Commons, have a straight route to the the developer to pay for the second A General landscaping Contractor Owned & Operated ٻۀۋڼھێڿۍڼڣsion, believing this would lead pedes- proposed passive park and create a bridge and a portion of a third, more Locally trians to cross Moraga Road in an link from the new development, and southern, access in the future; he also Lic. #938445 unsafe location, removed the bridge the Sonsara and Corliss Drive neigh- wanted Summerhill Homes to pay for ٻۀۂڼۉۄڼۍڟ from the plan. At the request of staff, borhoods, to the Commons and exist- the maintenance of the park. He was commissioners later consented to a ing trails. not met with much support – staff, ad- 925-819-2100 bridge built further south in the hope The development agreement de- vocacy groups and neighbors who ٻێۉۊۄۏۋڪٻۀۋڼھێڿۉڼڧٻۉۀۀۍڢ that pedestrians would use the cross- fines other conditions that the devel- have worked with this developer over walk at Moraga Road and St. Mary’s oper agrees to satisfy in order to gain the past two years have praised its ex- A GeneralVISIT OUR WEBSITE Engineering Contractor Road. certainty regarding the rules and reg- ceptional community spirit and WWW.BAYAREAGREENSCAPES.COM But the Town Council decided on ulations applicable to the develop- Keimach noted that asking Summer- Locally Owned and Operated Feb. 10 that it would prefer to see the ment over time. In addition to the hill Homes to pay more could result Contractor LIC #938445 bridge built at its former northern lo- park, the bridges and the crosswalk, in a diminution of the quality of the cation, along with a new crosswalk to Summerhill Homes will include an project. the skatepark. Moraga’s police chief, “outlook point” including a seating The development agreement will 925-819-2100 Bob Priebe, also supported the origi- area; construct a sidewalk along come back to the Town Council for nal plan. “A crosswalk by the Camino Ricardo in front of the de- final approval Feb. 26. A date for the skatepark makes a lot of sense,” he velopment and continue it to Moraga Planning Commission to re-examinewww.bayareagreenscapes.com said. Way; and designate Moraga as its the project has not yet been set. Improving Access to Sports Facilities in Moraga ... continued from page A5 “We have to be creative,” said clude the former use of Campolindo generational community center, a Weaver, “but some parents com- fields by the Moraga Baseball As- structure that would be similar to the plain that the children do not get sociation and the college facilities Wagner Ranch gym in Orinda – an enough practice.” that are used during the summer by 8,000 square foot building that is The discussion about joint use the town to offer camps to young operated under a joint use agree- agreements between the parties will residents. ment between the city and the begin at the next meeting. For ex- Finally the subcommittee will Orinda Union School District. ample, the town and school district discuss possible joint projects for The subcommittee will meet the will talk about special conditions for the future. One of them could be the first Monday evening of each month use of the field at Camino Pablo El- renovation of nine acres at Joaquin at the Hacienda de las Flores. The ementary School; in 2011 the town Moraga Intermediate School; the agenda is publicized on the town’s used $700,000 from its Measure fields have great potential but need website – from moraga.ca.gov go to WW funds to restore the school’s a lot of work. Another project that the calendar – and the meetings are sports field. Other examples in- could come to the table is a multi- open to the public.

Civic News Orinda A Bridge to the Future: Improving Orinda’s Aging Infrastructure Piece by Piece ... continued from page A1

...... Up to $2,425 in Savings! ENDSENDS ...... JUNE May 31,30, 2014 2013 - -CALL CALL FOR FOR DETAILS DETAILS Turncei veto casACSh re &b ates"Carrier" & toquali findfy feverythingor an energy from tax standardcredit when to yultraou install Photo Ohlen Alexander quiet,an ultra high quiet, efficiency high Her father moved their family Berkeley in the early 1960s, she was “I was very impressed with the heatingefficiency & coolingheating & from the Ygnacio Valley in 1945 be- unable to reach home when rising wa- naturalist that was hired,” said Els- cause he disliked the heat. “He ters made the bridge impassible. By berry, remembering his efforts to doc- csystems.ooling system. needed to be near the fog…. We were 1987, it was “pretty dicey driving ument native trees and other species. able to keep one head of livestock per over it” yet again. “That little creek … “We had a family of mallard ducks … acre,” she recalled. He built their to think it could go up 13 or 14 feet he took care to find that it was part of Furnace home on their lower acre near a and wash over the bridge.” their flyway.” rivulet feeding into the San Pablo So, the Manzanita upgrade began The bridge replacement was im- Maintenance Creek; her horse grazed happily on – part of a larger effort to enhance portant, explained Chuck Swanson, *Ends March 31, 2014 - Call for Details the acre above. She fondly remem- bridge safety across California. City public works director, because the Apr. 6th & 7th, 10 am to 6 pm Booth 15. bers waiting with classmates for the officials and staff sought public input, bridge serves a large neighborhood. school bus at its stop near the bridge, secured project approval from review Although the final tab is still being and still keeps in touch with several authorities and pulled together the computed, the city’s budget will most Air Conditioning Systems of those friends. necessary funding. Reassured by a likely not take the hit one would ex- Air Conditioning Systems 5151-C Port Chicago Highway ~ Concord, CA 94520 There were days, though, that July 2012 public hearing that the Cal- pect from so massive a project. Re- 5151-C Port Chicago Highway ~ Concord, CA 94520 www.ACSystemsInc.com • [email protected] were worrisome. In 1947, her fam- ifornia red-legged frog and other sen- cent estimates indicate that about $2.5 www.ACSystemsInc.com • [email protected] ily’s property took a beating as much sitive flora and fauna would be million of the roughly $3 million total Serving the Bay Area Since 1969 License # 632329 Serving the Bay Area Since 1969 of its fill washed into the feeder creek. protected, the Orinda City Council cost will be covered by state and fed- License # 632329 “Our house was just hanging … just authorized staff to open the construc- eral grants. teetering there.” While working at UC tion bidding process. 925925.676.2103 676 2103 Page: A12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014 Blankets of the Heart Community Service Submitted by Becky Maher

We are pleased to make space available whenever possible for some of Lamorinda’s dedicated community service organizations to submit news and information about their activities. Submissions can be sent to [email protected] with the subject header In Service to the Community. Kiwanis Crab Feed a Huge Success Submitted by Steve Woehleke

Rheem Elementary School first grade teacher Jennifer Strohmeyer and her class display blan- kets given to the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. Photo provided ennifer Strohmeyer's first grade class at Day. The children hand tied three twin-sized JDonald Rheem Elementary School learned blankets which were then donated to the Bay about giving of oneself to others on Valentine's Area Crisis Nursery. JM Students Learn About Giving and a Random Act of Kindness Submitted by Heidi Hoehn-Felt

More than 300 crab-lovers gather at the recent Kiwanis Crab Feed. Photo provided

oraga Valley Kiwanis Club held its 14th charities that focus on children and youth, in- MAnnual Charity Fundraiser Crab Feed cluding the three Lamorinda education founda- Feb. 1 at the Saint Mary’s Soda Center, with tions, the Food Bank and the Monument Crisis over 300 attending the sellout event, which fea- Center. A good time was had by all, thanks to tured lots of fabulous crab, social hour, dancing, organizations and individuals who contributed and silent auction. Attendees included District time and materials, including over 30 members 2 Supervisor Candace Andersen, Moraga mayor of local Kiwanis Key Clubs (high school clubs Ken Chew and Moraga council members Mike that focus on service work) who served the Metcalf and Dave Trotter. One hundred percent meals. For information about Moraga Valley of the event proceeds will be contributed to local Kiwanis, visit moragavalleykiwanis.org. Built to Read - Silver Award Recognized Submitted by Trina Audley

From left, back row: Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School students Kellen Kvech, Elizabeth Oxen- dine, Rico Zuniga, Bradley Thompson, Mark Lindblad of Boy Scout Troop 234, JM school coun- selor Heidi Felt and Kevin Hughes, director of gift planning at Children’s Hospital Oakland. Front row: Gilma Rivera, CHO Foundation receptionist, and JM student Olivia Rogers. Photo provided n recognition of national Random Act the gift bags with heart ribbon and attached Iof Kindness week Feb. 10-16, the a get well card signed by a JM student to Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School lead- each one. “Timing was perfect,” said Heidi ership class led by Tricia Reyes along with Hoehn-Felt. “They had just run out of advisory teachers Kim Lockett and Mary Valentine goodies at CHO.” CHO Foun- Ann Shimer created a project JM students dation receptionist Gilma Rivera said these will never forget. After about a month of gifts bring "joy and comfort to these ill collecting new toys, signing get well cards, children and help them cope (with their ill- and wrapping gift bags, over 300 bags and ness or pending surgery) and also helps toys were delivered Feb. 13 to Children’s their parents who are often a wreck emo- Hospital Oakland – just in time for Valen- tionally but can't show it to their kids." She tine’s Day. Scoutmaster Wendell Baker's added, "When our kids are coping better, Moraga School District Boy Scout troops we cope better as parents." as well as 27 leadership students compiled Assistance League of Diablo Valley Offers Scholarships for Fall, 2014 Submitted by Betty Miller From left, front row: Jen Donat (leader) Brianna Donat, Jaime Brown, and Trina Audley (leader); middle row: Eva Poulson, Hannah Kramer, Rebecca Lamotte, Callista Asuncion, and Margot Audley; back row: Julia Stedman, Dante Bamont, Alex Matson, Cara Wolfe, and Claire Terentieff. Photo provided

afayette Girl Scout Troop 30863 cel- can just pick one to take home,” she said. Lebrated the completion of their Silver “Helping build the shelves and donate Award service project at the end of 2013. books really made me feel like we were The girls were recognized for their “Built making a difference,” commented Julia to Read” project which included a year of Stedman, a troop member and freshman at individual and committee group effort to Acalanes High School. “I love to read – raise funds and collect and sort books. The reading is a privilege that all children troop then spent five weekend building should have.” Scholarships Chairman Jodi Riley (back row, far right) congratulates 2013 Scholarship recipients. sessions to construct two free-standing The Silver Award project also marked Photo provided book shelves for donation. the culmination of 10 years of learning and ssistance League of Diablo Valley term at Contra Costa College, Diablo Val- Through Shelter, Inc. and the Mt. Dia- growth together for troop 30863. The ma- Ascholarships provide financial aid to ley College, or Los Medanos College and blo school district, the troop identified a jority of girls have been with the troop qualifying high school students, commu- transferring to a four-year college or uni- single mother recently placed in new hous- since it started. Additional members and nity college students, as well as foster versity: application deadline, Feb. 28. High ing as well as an elementary school in need their parents,who joined over the years, en- youth in the Contra Costa community who School Scholarships for seniors graduating of the books and shelves. Each received riched the troop. Sharing careers, helping are planning to enter a community college, from any high school in Contra Costa delivery of the books and shelves in the with camping and cookie sales and provid- a four year university, or a vocational County and entering a two-year or four- fall. ing committee leadership and guidance, school in the fall of 2014. Applicants year college, deadline March 14. Foster “She can be our library now,” com- the parents played an active role. “Our must demonstrate the need for financial aid Youth Scholarships for current or former mented a neighbor of the residential recip- time together as a troop will never be for- and a desire to further their education, dependents of the court in the foster care ient who looked on as the troop delivered gotten – it was a big part of my daughter’s maintain a specified grade point average, program of Contra Costa County eligible the painted free-standing book shelf and childhood,” commented one 10-year par- participate in campus life, be hands-on in- to attend a two-year college, four-year col- three large boxes of books. At the elemen- ent after the ceremony. volved in community service, and provide lege, or accredited vocational school, tary school, a second grade teacher waited Many troop members plan to continue a timeline for academic and career goals. deadline March 21. For more information joyfully as the books were carted in by the their service as Juliette Girl Scouts, work- The deadlines that follow are firm; no ex- and application forms, please visit diablo- troop. “Many families do not have books ing to obtain their gold award within two ceptions. Community College Scholar- valley.assistanceleague.org. at home for outside reading. Now the kids years. ships for students completing their final Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A13

Community Service Share Your Celebrations and Remembrances If you would like to share an announcement about a special event or achievement, And the Winner Is … such as a wedding, engagement, scholarship or graduation of a local resident, or Submitted by Fred George about a special person from Lamorinda who has passed, send a photo along with your text (up to 250 words) to [email protected], and include “Celebrations and Remembrances” in the subject line.

Photo provided he Moraga Lions Club Stu- Kelley, who will go on to compete Tdent Speakers Contest, which at the Zone Level contest being had a topic of "Community Serv- held at 6:30 p.m. March 13 at Oak ice-What Does It Mean and Why Grove Library in Walnut Creek. Does It Matter?" was held Feb. 19 The speech contest includes high at the Moraga Library. Pictured school students from the states of from left, contestants Omid California and Nevada; the ultimate Boorzarpour (Campolindo High winner is awarded $21,000 in School), Lina Mathkour (Mira- scholarship money, with many monte High School), Fred George, other contestants winning scholar- Moraga Lions Club chair, Caie Kel- ship money also along the way to ley (Miramonte), and Kelly Evans the finals being held June 6 in (Campolindo). The winner was Pasadena, Calif. DAR honors Good Citizens 2014 Submitted by Jude Putman-Fenz

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From left, Barbara Snyder, DAR Good Citizens Award chairperson, Miramonte High School student Linda Lan Phung, Las Lomas High School student Sara Chen, and Acalanes DAR Chapter Regent Louise Diracles. Photo provided he Acalanes Chapter of the an American flag flown over the TDaughters of the American U.S. Capitol building in Washing- Revolution (DAR) recently ton D.C. to this year’s winners: awarded several high school sen- Sara Chen from Las Lomas High 300 Miller Court, Orinda, CA iors the Good Citizens’ Award. School and Linda Lan Phung from These students are selected based Miramonte High School. Also se- on their ability to demonstrate lected, but unable to attend, were qualities of dependability, service, Briana Grether from Acalanes Exclusively represented by Glenn W. Beaubelle, leadership and patriotism within High School, McKenna Williams, The Beaubelle Group of Coldwell Banker their community and schools. from Contra Costa Christian High Good Citizens’ Award chairperson School (her mother, Mitzi, ac- Barbara Snyder presented DAR cepted the award on her behalf), Brokers must accompany their client(s) and register them on their first visit to the Sales Center in Good Citizen pins, certificates of and Marina Han from Campolindo RUGHUWREHHOLJLEOHIRUDEURNHUFRPPLVVLRQ‹2ULQGD2DNV6LJQDWXUH'HYHORSPHQW*URXS¬ recognition, monetary awards and High School. Page: A14 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014 ~ HE’S ALL ABOUT LAMORINDA ~ _____CLARK THOMPSON_____

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Acalanes Stagecraft students work on creating Miramonte student fine-tunes dance moves at recent modern sets for “Guys and Dolls” show. rehearsal. But though the production – a story “When it first appeared on cial satire is something we’ve not Custom Quality Fencing of a romance between a missionary Broadway, I was skeptical,” said di- done before,” said director David • Good Neighbor Fence and a gambler in a town notorious for rector Heather Cousins. “However, it Pinkham. “‘Urinetown’ itself is an • Deer Fencing its casinos – has been performed was the perfect choice for this partic- important example of the evolution • Picket/Split Rail many times before in forms ranging ular generation of students because as of musical theater, having opened the • RV Gates from youth dramatic productions to they say, ‘Shrek’ is their childhood. doors in 2003 for shows like ‘Bloody • Trellis and Arbors • Retaining Walls Broadway shows, Acalanes is work- They grew up with the movie.” Bloody Andrew Jackson’ and ‘The • Insurance/Storm Repairs ing to incorporate a slightly new But most people would not ex- Book of Mormon’ on Broadway. We Ken Tamplen “look” to its set and costumes with pect such a quirky production to in- think it’s brilliantly funny and a 925-938-9836 the help of Acalanes’ Stagecraft class, clude such catchy, captivating music romping good time.” a newly added elective that allows – songs that will give cast members But as strange as the musical’s licensed, bonded & insured. CA#667491 www.kensrototilling.com students to craft onstage sets for Daniel Cook, Tosca Maltzman, Mar- theme sounds, the production is school productions. itza Grillo, and Andy Tobin perfect thought-provoking, triggering philo- “Mr. Meehan and his Stagecraft opportunities to showcase their sophical, environmental, and politi- class have created a set that’s not re- supreme vocal skills. cal questions about society, without All Airports ally like anything we’ve done be- “As soon as I heard the music, I explicitly presenting answers at the fore,” said director Cathy was fully on board,” said Cousins. end of the show. TAXI BLEU Served 24/7 Challacombe. “It’s a much more “Both the movie and the musical ap- “While it doesn’t ‘preach,’ it modern use of sets. The costumes are peal to the entire family with clever does make one think,” said Pinkham. Dispatch: predominantly black and white, so jokes which will fly right over small “We particularly like the fact that 925-849-2222 visually it will be very different.” kids’ heads. What the movie doesn’t ‘Urinetown’ points out some of our Direct: In addition to an artistically have is the original Broadway score, foibles (including how easy it is for 925-286-0064 crafted set, Acalanes boasts an out- music by Jeanine Tesori and lyrics by us to shy away from something just standing group of singers and actors Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright because of its name), and deals with www.mytaxibleu.com participating in the production, some David Lindsey-Abaire.” important issues like corporate [email protected] of whom already have plans to pur- But Miramonte’s cast members greed, governmental oppression, the sue music at prestigious colleges next are not the only ones daring enough folly of idealism and the scarcity of year. Briana Grether, Andrew Cope, to take on a more cutting-edge pro- environmental resources.” Caroline Whelehan, and Danny Igoe duction this spring. Campolindo Combine with these deeper will carry out the roles of their out- High School’s actors and singers will meanings plenty of opportunities for landish characters with gusto, all the perform the satirical musical “Urine- talented Campolindo vocalists to while wowing audiences with their town” on the weekends of March 13- break out into song, and the result is vocal talents. 16 and March 20-23. Originally a show that not only entertains, but A Color Coordinated Exterior Paint All Work Supervised By Owner/Contractor The musicians and actors of Mi- written by playwright Greg Kotis, inspires. Guy Clearwater, Nathan Job By us will make your home • Re-painting Specialist • Restorations ramonte High School opted for a the dystopian production depicts a Correll, Maddie Browning, Alyssa Appraisal at least $20,000 Higher! • Color Coordinating • Waterproofing more contemporary show when they world in which water is so scarce Murray, Will Martin, Ricky Lomas, • Remodeling • Redwood Deck Renewal • Acoustic Ceiling Removal selected “Shrek the Musical,” to be that using the restroom costs money. Nani Senderowicz, and Marissa Mo- A Local Contractor Living & Working In performed March 13-16. Based on Albeit centered around an obscure nopoli will all shine in this double- The Lamorinda Area For Over 20 Years the 2001 DreamWorks animated topic, Campo students embraced the casted musical. FREE Estimates 283-8621 movie, this brand new Broadway challenge of putting the show to- For tickets and showtimes visit:

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James Burkin www.BurkinElectric.net Sole Proprietor Campolindo students work on choreography for “Urinetown” production. Photos Ohlen Alexander Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B1 Happy Hearts Walk for Henry By Cathy Dausman

Henry Branagh, 22 months, is all smiles ahead of the second annual Happy Heart walk in his honor. The walk sup- ports those affected with Barth Syndrome. Henry was diagnosed with the syndrome at age 3 months. Photo Cathy Dausman

enry Branagh, age 22 came a five-week stay in the Pe- nearly 150 participants donned Hmonths, is all heart; per- diatric Intensive Care Unit at matching red T-shirts to hike the haps more so than he should be. Children’s Hospital Oakland. Reservoir trail, before enjoying a The lively Lamorinda toddler has He was hospitalized again be- sausage, hot dog, fruit and cup- severe dilated cardiomyopathy, fore his first birthday. cake lunch – some of Henry’s fa- an enlarged left ventricle, due to Shortly after, his mother or- vorite food. The walk itself was Barth Syndrome (www.barthsyn- ganized a Happy Heart Walk free – “we pre-sold T-shirts,” drome.org), but you wouldn’t around Lafayette Reservoir “to Branagh explained, but the family know it to look at him, especially honor Henry and to promote encouraged donations to Barth since his nasal feeding tube has awareness of Pediatric Cardiomy- Syndrome Foundation. been removed. opathy.” The Happy Heart term ... continued on page B4 Barth Syndrome is a rare ge- was coined when Branagh’s best netic disorder affecting more friend from Texas sent words of boys than girls; it is marked by encouragement, and referenced a enlarged heart, low white blood biblical passage: "A happy heart cell count, muscle weakness, and makes the face cheerful ..." energy deficiency. Henry was (Proverbs 15:13). just 3 months old when he was di- Megan Branagh hosted a sec- agnosed at the onset of what be- ond walk Feb. 22. This time

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Call Michael Heller 925-998-2150 BMW Concord | 1967 Market ST. | Concord Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School participants in the Communication Skills for Girls workshop. Photo provided hen you ask high school years,”she says. times the most insecure, and they are Wgirls from the Sister-to-Sis- Tween and early teen years can be the ones who would need help,” says ter series – a life skills program for hard for growing girls, and can result Miramonte senior Elizabeth Chenok, middle school girls offered by the in a culture that's confusing for young who was a facilitator. “The girls who Lamorinda branch of the American women. Moraga School District Su- work with us learn techniques to iden- Association of University Women – perintendent Bruce Burns asked tify and handle their own emotions, about the most painful memories of AAUW’s Valarie Burgess, who's without lashing out or being over- Theater View their years in middle school, half of been managing the Sister-to-Sister whelmed.” The senior thinks that the time their response is “betrayal” – project in Lamorinda for 15 years, to middle school is a time of change and betrayal by girls who they thought offer a multi-week program for fe- insecurity, when all people desper- were their closest friends. male Joaquin Intermediate School ately want is to fit in. Veterinary Clinic One Miramonte High School se- students to work on communication April Tabler, a sixth grader at JM, nior’s worst experience in middle issues and healthy relationships. The participated in the program. "We had Theater View school was that suddenly her best pilot program, called Communication a lot of fun learning new skills," she Veterinary Clinic friends stopped talking with her on Skills for Girls, was held in the fall; says. "We practiced the ‘I’ statement the phone and stopped inviting her to the Sister-to-Sister summit scheduled – when you say what you feel rather is a brand new hangout. When confronted about it, March 22 is a one-day opportunity for than accusing someone about what facility owned by they started sending awful texts and young girls to experience how to bet- they did – or how to identify and de- “Dr. Laurie” putting her down. ter navigate the emotional roads of fuse ‘pushing’ statements. We Langford who has Another Miramonte senior, who middle school. learned how to avoid being bullied been caring for also asked not to be named, was part The programs offered are man- and we made new friends.” animals in Orinda of a very close knit group of friends aged by high school facilitators – April's mother, Sarah Tabler, ap- and was ostracized one day when one local high school girls who can testify preciated the information session that for 15 years. of the girls said that their group was to the difficulty of middle school was held for parents before the series “too exclusive” and it was that girl's years and to the better times that lie started, and the follow-up emails sent fault. The same thing happened to an ahead. They are trained by AAUW every week to reinforce what the girls Acalanes High School senior one day members year-round. were learning. "They learned to avoid in middle school when she heard that "The purpose of the six-week using ‘always’ and ‘never,’” she says. her friends were hiding in the bath- program at JM is to empower girls "They learned how to name emotions, room because they didn't want to and raise their emotional intelli- recognize feelings. They also dis- hang out with her anymore. "It was a gence," says Burgess. "It teaches cussed the importance of having your “Dr. Laurie” Langford metaphoric punch to my gut," she re- healthy communication and relation- own thoughts and being your authen- calls. ship skills, raises awareness of nega- tic self." A Bentley Upper School junior tive cultural and social messages, and Burgess hopes to offer a second Phone: (925) 317-3187 adds that throughout sixth and sev- helps the girls to be resilient and pro- Communication Skills for Girls ses- Fax: (925) 334-7017 enth grade she can’t remember a day ficient advocates for themselves and sion starting in April. All the girls Email: [email protected] when her “friends” weren’t saying their peers." Burgess designed the who participated in the first program www.theaterviewvetclinic.com things like, "You're pathetic" or program with Laura L. Wittenberg, a have been invited to the March 22 1 Bates Blvd., Suite 200, Orinda “You're a selfish brat," or "No one marriage and family therapist, based Sister-to-Sister summit, held from 9 cares.” on their participation in the Rachel Si- a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the Bentley High “Being turned off by friends is mons' Boston Girls Leadership Insti- School campus in Lafayette. For one of the worst feelings a young girl tute. more information or to register, go to can experience in her early teenage "People who act mean are some- oml-ca.aauw.net/s2s/.

MOFD Updates GIS Evacuation Maps LeapFrog Plumbing By Cathy Dausman Save some WATER ‘n save some local creeks, streams, and other haz- GREEN this St. Paddy’s Day ards. Gas main information from with a re‐circulating hot‐ PG&E is yet to be added. water pump. There’s one The job was a good fit for Garcia, to fit your needs (push‐ who describes himself as “a big pic- button, timer‐activated, full‐time & ture kind of guy.” more). No more water down the This information, and much more, can be layered into the GIS system, Head Frog Mo Williams drain while you wait for hot water! the way celluloid pages built the “vis- ible man” in printed reference books. $25 OFF! Each layer can be turned on or off as needed. To illustrate GIS use, Garcia any plumbing job* showed how a simulated fire might grow from the Bear Creek trail – along Sewer the shore of Briones Reservoir – and • Water Heater progress south toward Orinda’s $75 OFF! Sleepy Hollow School. The location Specialist re-circ systems* Uriel Garcia and Dennis Rein discuss evacuation routes in Orinda's Sleepy was picked because Sleepy Hollow Hollow neighborhood. Their map is a print version of the GIS overlay sys- neighborhood will soon become one • 24/7 Service tem they are building. Photo Cathy Dausman of Contra Costa County’s first Fire- *Expires 3/31/14 Provided & wise (wildfire community prepared- installed by LeapFrog Plumbing. sually residents want to get into safe exit routes and trouble shoot traf- Utheir neighborhood, but there fic control “choke points” – potential ness, www.firewise.org) communities. We Hop To It! are times, and situations, where the traffic jam locations – ahead of a real “GIS is a lifestyle program; it needs goal is getting out. A flood, wildfire disaster, said Emergency Prepared- to be kept up,” Rein said. MOFD Family-owned and serving Lamorinda since 1993 or hazardous material spill may make ness Coordinator Dennis Rein. started its evacuation route mapping a neighborhood uninhabitable and In 2013, Rein and MOFD intern back in 2006-07 under then fire marshal evacuation imperative. This is why Uriel Garcia worked to electronically Tonya Hoover, who is now the Califor- green solutions! the Moraga-Orinda Fire District is uti- note the location of the area’s every nia state fire marshal. She said the initial lizing computer technology to pre- fire hydrant, fire trail, and street. Gar- effort was tied into the California Fire plan local evacuation routes. The goal cia also uploaded parcel map infor- Safe program (http://www.cafiresafe- (925) 377-6600 is to update the MOFD area GIS, or mation, the location of Central council.org/), with data layers intended CA Lic geographic information system, al- Sanitary (sewer) lines, East Bay Mu- for use by fire service responders. 929641 www.LeapFrogPlumbing.com lowing first responders to identify nicipal Utility District water lines, ... continued on next page

Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B3 Lamorinda Native Scales Myanmar’s Highest Peak By Cathy Dausman

now! From left, Mark Fisher, Po Pin, Eric Daft, Andy Tyson, Molly Loomis and Chris Nance celebrating the first ascent of Myanmar’s Gamlang Razi Moun- fashion studio tain. Photo courtesy Fisher Creative

olly Loomis has traveled to on first attempt. Anticipating a break Mplaces those in the western in the weather, the team rose at 3 a.m. world usually don’t go. Late last The rain turned to snow, then white- summer she became the lone woman out conditions as the expedition in a group making the first ascent on veered slightly off course; still they Myanmar’s Gamlang Razi Mountain. climbed the final 4,000 feet to the They spent more than a month in its summit. conquest. The weather was such that “we While Myanmar claims another never saw the top of the mountain peak, Hkakbo Razi, as Southeast until we were coming down,” Loomis Asia’s highest, Loomis said new map said. On their return to civilization – data taken from the GPS readings the city of Yangon – the Myanmar they made atop Gamlang Razi proved government presented them with a otherwise. Their readings recorded congratulatory letter “for climbing the Gamlang Razi’s elevation at 19,238 second highest” peak. feet. “Myanmar is big in the formality Loomis recently shared slides of of celebrations,” said Loomis, which her journey at a private reception in might also explain why their group Lafayette. The audience included was formally recognized once before • Comfortable, Convenient school friends – Loomis is a 1995 they even began their journey. “Nothinging Family and graduate of Acalanes High School – Loomis’ lush photography gave ““NothingN“Nothingoth makes meme Cosmetic Dentistry their parents and neighbors. Loomis’ the adventure the exotic feel of a Na- mmakesmakesakes me me adventure began with a 180-mile, tional Geographic outing, but happierr tthanhan • Certified in Full Mouth two-week hike to reach the moun- Loomis’ mother, Liz Loomis, who at- happierhahappierppie than than to see Reconstruction tain’s base camp. The mountaineers tended the presentation, admits it is tototo ssee eseee carted everything in themselves – “hard to be a parent” of a child who you smile!”” smile! local villages were too small to sup- climbs. youyoyouu smile!” smile!” port their needs. They hired dozens “You have to have a certain of local porters, each of whom shoul- modem of faith,” she said, recalling dered about 30 kilos (66 pounds) of when “walking to the end of the Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Providing Personalized Care through Quality Dentistry PProvidingroProvidingviding PersonalizedPe Personalizedrsonalized CareCa Carere throughth rthroughough QualityQ uQualityality DentistryD eDentistryntistry supplies in baskets made of bamboo driveway” was a major accomplish- FFamilyFamilyamily & & CosmeticC Cosmeticosmetic DentistryD Dentistryentistry and rattan. ment for her daughter. That changed “We definitely were not moving when she enrolled her then-teenager $40 off ‘light and fast,’” Loomis admitted. in Cal Adventures, a UC Berkeley Scott D. Lothamer, DDS $40 off Her team walked an average of 15 outdoor program, and Loomis hiked Scott D. MoragaLothamer, DDS mention this ad to miles daily in heat and tropical hu- from “one side of the Sierra near 925-376-4602Moraga receivemention $40 this off ad any to midity, drinking four or five liters of Devil’s Postpile to Yosemite Valley.” 925-376-4602 receivedental $40 tretment off any Member: water to stay hydrated. En route there Loomis took up outdoor adven- 1030 Country Club Drive dental tretment ADA • CDAMember: • CCDS • AACD were hardships – leech bites, sand tures in earnest attending college in 1030 Country Club Drive ADA CDA CCDS AACD flies and swarms of bees. Colorado. “What’s next?” an audi- The leech bites “looked worse ence member inquired as her presen- than they felt,” she said, and the sand tation ended. flies produced an awful skin rash. “Nothing,” she replied. “The They crossed handmade rope bridges record is just out there.” of uncertain weight limits. On a single Loomis is now a writer in Teton day they once gained 8,000 feet in Valley, Idaho, and works as a park vertical elevation. But by acclimating ranger in the Grand Tetons during the carefully, the group avoided suffering summers. Her adventures and pho- major altitude sickness. tography are documented online at The trip offered beauty as well, in www.mollyloomis.com. the form of spongy rhododendron At least two other climbers have forests and “stunning” butterflies. Ar- roots in Lamorinda: Hans Florine, riving at base camp, elevation 15,500, who shares the Speed Climb World they endured rain for 10 days straight. Record for ascending The Nose of “Things were pretty wet,” Yosemite’s El Capitan; and Steve Loomis said. Still, the group accom- Wampler, the first person with cere- plished the unbelievable – a summit bral palsy to climb El Capitan. MOFD Updates GIS Evacuation Maps Mike Rose proudly announces ... continued from page B2 the opening of our MOFD was one of the first fire fire service responders “to have all the districts in Northern California to em- best possible info.” ploy such technology, she said. This summer, updated 8 by 12 Lafayette Location…!!! Hoover recalled planning “pretty foot GIS maps will adorn each lengthy” evacuation drills for MOFD fire station. Garcia and Rein Bollinger Canyon and Canyon. “Un- will also provide map books to every Mike’s Auto Body fortunately, we didn’t quite get there,” MOFD fire engine, and oversee GIS she said, meaning the program was information updates for Saint Mary’s 3430 Mt. Diablo Blvd. still in its infancy. (See related story on College. page D1.) Recent improvements now Garcia will continue to work as a (former Butler-Conti Dodge location) make GIS technology more accessible private contractor for MOFD through Lafayette CA 94549 and certainly more affordable. the current fiscal year; he is also ne- “High resolution ortho (aerial) gotiating with the Town of Moraga to (925) 283-5600 photos used to cost thousands of dol- perform similar updates on their GIS lars,” Rein said. “Now many maps data. The project goal is to share in- [email protected] are available online, either free or in- formation with “neighborhoods, expensively, through National emergency responders, cities and re- Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminis- gional [entities],” Rein said. Approved by most major insurance companies… tration and U.S. Geological Survey “This area seems very good for websites.” sharing,” Garcia said. And GIS data 2012 Marks 40 Years in Business Map analysis allows for better will become even more important as evacuation decisions to be made, with fire season approaches. less risk of life for first responders, GIS is useful in operations, train- Visit our website for our other 7 locations Rein said. GIS is “just a tool,” he ing and prevention applications, said said; but Hoover called it a “wonder- Hoover. In a word, she calls it “amaz- www.mikesautobody.com ful” tool, and emphasized the need for ing.” Page: B4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

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Happy Hearts Walk for Henry ... continued from page B1

More than 100 neighbors and friends of the Branagh family donned red heart shirts during the second annual Happy Heart Walk at Lafayette Reservoir Saturday. Photo Cathy Dausman

“We had great support from local businesses (Peet’s This year a group of eight families, Branagh friends with a Barth Syndrome diagnosis. Coffee, Susie Cakes, Lafayette Carwash, Boswell’s Party from Ft. Worth, Texas, wore the same T-shirts and walked “The past year and half has been quite a journey, def- Supplies and Whole Foods, all in Lafayette, plus East Bay in solidarity with the Lafayette contingent. Also joining initely the most trying time in our lives, but also a time of Screenprint, Concord, and Gianna’s Baking Company, the Reservoir group was the family of a young Alameda feeling very loved and supported by our family, friends, Castroville),” she said. And the outreach has expanded. teen, the only other Bay Area child the Branaghs know and community,” Branagh said. “We’re very thankful.” Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B5 “God of Carnage” Opens at Lafayette Motors Independent service and repair for Mercedes Benz

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Bay Area Women’s Wellness From left: Jacquie Duckworth, Derrick Silva, Henry Perkins, and Suzie Shepard. Photo Stu Selland Behavioral Medicine for Women ivilization may give us pol- books about Africa. comes from the difference be- Cish, but contemporary play- Alan keeps responding to busi- tween where the characters start Depression • Anxiety wright Yasmina Reza shows us ness calls; Annette vomits after and where they end up. Maternal Stress • Infertility that underneath it all, humans are being lectured by Veronica, who The team had only five weeks Medical Illnesses • Weight Loss torn with frustration and pain that turns on her own husband; the to put the play together, and a few Life Transitions can erupt into violence. Set in a foursome reproducing the violence days before opening night the Hormonal Imbalances city that could easily be San Fran- that engulfed their children. tempo still needed tightening, es- Behavior Change cisco, New York, or Paris (Reza The humor comes from the pecially at the beginning. Alan’s is French), the play is the humor- way the play is constructed: the constant phone interruptions were ous story of what happens to us gradual deterioration of the rela- not marked enough, maybe be- New Orinda when the “God of Carnage” tionships; Reza’s understanding of cause there were no sound effects, arises and the veneer falls away. human character; and the slight and the actor was sometimes hard Location! “God of Carnage” tells the caricature of the participants who to understand. The women were story of parents from two civi- are reminiscent of people we all already at the top of their game, lized families – the Novaks and know. wonderfully energetic and funny, the Raleighs – who meet to dis- Director Susan Hovey, who losing control with flair. • Stanford Medical Staff cuss an altercation that occurred previously produced “The Grad- The short play (1 hour and 10 • Specializing in Evidence‐Based between their two 11-year-old uate” for Town Hall Theatre, and minutes, with no intermission) Treatments sons, resulting in one of them los- who also directs at Contra Costa will make you laugh; it is a su- • Cognitive Behavior Therapy ing front teeth. The meeting takes Civic Theatre and Tri-Valley perb opportunity for intelligent • Private and Confidential place in the Novaks’ living room Repertory Theatre, says, “This entertainment. and soon turns into a fight be- play is about parents, and mar- “God of Carnage” runs from • Collaborative and Goal‐ Oriented tween families and sexes. Alan riage, and adulthood. The play Feb. 22 to March 15 at Town Hall Jennifer L. McCollum, Ph.D. Raleigh (played by Derrick Silva) shows the inner battle between Theatre at the corner of Moraga is a business lawyer, his wife An- the savage instincts that you have Road and School Street in Clinical Psychologist nette (Jacquie Duckworth) is a to control and the civil decency Lafayette. For tickets, contact the CA License PSY 23758 wealth manager; Michael Novak that you have to rein in so you Town Hall Theatre Box Office at (925) 386‐6037 (Henry Perkins) owns a whole- don't sound phony. And everyone (925) 283-1557, or purchase on- www.bayareawomenswellness.com sale hardware company, his wife can relate to that." She adds that line at 37 Avenida de Orinda 885 Oak Grove Avenue Veronica (Suzie Shepard) writes the comic aspect of the play www.TownHallTheatre.com. Orinda Menlo Park Boomers Invited to Find Balance and

Bone Up on Health MARY H. SMITH, D.D.S.ï CECELIA THOMAS, D.D.S. By Laurie Snyder A Professional Corporation f you’ve reached the stage of changing health challenges they sity. “My goal,” she explains, “is 96 Davis Road, #5 - Orinda, CA 94563 Ilife where the snap, crackle are or will be experiencing, she to bring equilibrium to the body, 925.254.0824 and pop of your morning break- also co-founded the Menopause mind and spirit through integra- fast cereal is being drowned out and PMS Center and the Osteo- tive health and wellness care.” by the creaking of joints, it may porosis Diagnostic Center in So, if you’re tired of sounding be time for a visit to the Orinda Berkeley, and teaches other like a wounded buffalo when you Library. healthcare practitioners about get up to grab that second morn- On March 7, library staff will spinal anatomy and osteology. ing cup of coffee, be there or be join forces with the Orinda Parks During a 20-minute session square. Registration begins at the and Recreation Department and break, participants will be given a Orinda Library Auditorium at 9 Friends of the Orinda Library to special opportunity to try out one a.m. Coffee, tea and treats will be get area residents moving with of three fitness options that have available. For more information, the launch of “Health Matters for been much in the news of late – contact Girshman at: (925) 254- Taking care of all your dental needs for you and your Boomers and Beyond: Embracing yoga, Zumba Gold, or improving 2184, ext. 15; family. Emphasizing cosmetic dentistry with implants, the Benefits of Living a Balanced balance. [email protected]. Or, visit: and Invisalign. Nitrous oxide is available. Lifestyle.” The free lecture series Attendees will then hear from www.friendsoftheorindalibrary.org. Consultations are complementary. will kick off at 9:30 a.m. with a Saskia Kleinert, NC, CMT, Dentistry with Excellence. lecture on Bone Health and Aging founder and Director of the by Bay Area chiropractor and Emeryville Wellness Center women’s health expert, Lani (www.integrativehealthnutrition.c Simpson, DC, CCD om/). Kleinert, who will speak (www.lanisimpson.com/biogra- about Nutrition and Aging Well phy/). Pre-registration is not re- from 11 a.m. until noon, is a third 24/7 On Call HOME quired. degree black belt who has taught Dr. Simpson, a certified clini- massage therapy and health edu- cal bone densitometrist, “has cation at the National Holistic In- CARE Experts been researching and studying stitute in Emeryville. In private Let us help your loved ones bone health for the past 20 practice since 1993, she has re- retain their pride, dignity & years,”says Orinda Library man- ceived training at Dr. Andrew independence with our full- ager Beth Girshman. Experienced Weil’s Institute of Integrative service home care. at educating adults regarding life Medicine and Hawthorn Univer- Best Home Care For Le$$ Submit stories and ȧ%DWKLQJGUHVVLQJJURRPLQJ WRLOHWLQJ $1000 off ȧ/LJKWKRXVHNHHSLQJ PHDOSUHSDUDWLRQ )LUVW0RQWKRI/LYHLQ +RPH&DUH6HUYLFH story ideas to ȧ7UDQVSRUWDWLRQVKRSSLQJ HUUDQGV :,7+&28321 ȧ0HGLFDWLRQUHPLQGHUV SK\VLFDODFWLYLWLHV PRQWKVPLQLPXP RIIHUH[SLUHV YOUR 24/7 HOME CARE SPECIALIST storydesk@lamorinda ȧ&RPSDQLRQVKLS PRUH weekly.com &DOO(925)317-3080QRZWRERRN\RXU)5((LQLWLDODVVHVVPHQW   ‹^^^*HYL0UKLLKJVT‹4VYHNH>H`:\P[L 6YPUKH*(  Page: B6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

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Technology and Education Changing how teachers teach, students learn By Amanda Kuehn

not only takes time, but poses risk. whelmed by the process and the “It’s a different way of thinking. It cost.” represents a paradigm shift in how “There’s also a perspective from you access information and use ma- outside of the classroom that this one terials.” magic app will solve all of the prob- It used to be that teachers were lems,” said Rambo. “Technology is viewed as content masters who not the silver bullet. It doesn’t replace passed along information to their teaching and learning.” classes, but this is changing with the For León, one of the keys to com- influx of technology and integration batting teacher frustration is collabo- of new tools. “Now every student can ration. “My caution is for teachers to have an iPad,” said León, whose stu- work with one another; that can help dents connect to the classroom so much in helping with the fear and through Apple technology. “Students anxiety of having to relearn some- being a part of that kind of education thing.” is a huge shift.” “It seems to me that we are all Though technology can, as subject to shiny object syndrome,” Rambo noted, “create ways for stu- said Rambo.“There’s always this idea dents to take ownership over their that new is better. But sometimes you own learning,” it can also cause com- don’t have to look further. Find out plications. what kinds of creative capacities you “You have to be resilient,” said already have. If you can teach in a León, “able to adapt on the fly to a more effective way using the white hiccup.” That adaptation isn’t always board, use the white board.” easy. For Rambo, the key question to Photo courtesy Lafayette School District “It’s a mindset shift to say ‘I can ask is “How is this technology help- ecent innovations in educa- instructional design at SMC. Her re- whiteboard that uses touch detection give up control,’” added Rambo. ing us do what we already do better?” Rtional technology are changing search includes the effective use of for user input. It functions as part of a One of the biggest challenges in “And in a more innovative way,” the face of traditional classrooms. “In digital technology in the classroom. “I system that includes a computer, a integrating technology is that teachers León added. “There may be some- the last decade, especially in the last have a lot of technology in my own projector, whiteboarding software and “have to know the technology in thing we can’t even imagine that stu- five years, I’ve seen more and more life and use it with my students as a board that accepts touch input from order to be an expert,” León noted. dents can do with that material and technology used,” said Raina León, well,” said León. a finger, pen or other solid object. That kind of learning takes time, and that technology.” assistant professor in the Kalmanovitz Technology has come a long way According to long-time educator with the rapidly changing tech indus- “It accesses and creates capacities School of Education at Saint Mary’s since León began teaching in 2007. and program director of SMC’s Edu- try, new tools are always being intro- for different learning styles to come College. “I’m a huge proponent of “[My first school] was tech-focused, cational Leadership Program, Heidi- duced. forward in a classroom,” said Rambo. using a lot of resources.” so every classroom had a projector marie Rambo, Ed.D., “Technology “There’s just an explosion of “The students who are most likely León is no stranger to the class- and every teacher had a computer. We threatens that comfort space of the apps,” said Rambo. “There are so to really push us forward, who inno- room. She taught at a global educa- had multiple labs, but no tablets or teacher knowing where the class is many that are relevant and usable. vate and dream are probably the ones tion high school in Las Vegas before smartphones,” she said. “Then I went going and being in control of how it The problem is how am I as a teacher we don’t understand right now,” said working with middle and high school overseas and every classroom had a gets there.” supposed to know about all of these León. Giving them new tools as a students in Bambery, Germany, and Smart Board, but the majority of Rambo, who works with pre-ser- apps and become proficient in learn- means of creation, discovery and ex- currently teaches courses on the foun- teachers had no idea how to use it.” vice and in-service teachers, ex- ing how to use them?” León agreed. pression may empower these students dations of secondary education and The Smart Board is an interactive plained that learning to use new tools “Teachers can easily be over- to push us further into the future. Use Your Most Powerful Tool for Getting Into College By Elizabeth LaScala, PhD s a college advisor I give col- your hands. Simply stated, colleges foreign language and math in mid- University (CSU) systems as well deavors strengthen the college ap- Alege related advice all year admit students who show an inter- dle school and prepare to take as many other four year colleges plication because they strengthen round. One of the most common est in going to school. This state- geometry and the 2nd year of your require one full year of college you. conversations I have with families ment rests on the premise that you foreign language in high school. preparatory coursework in the vi- Don’t misunderstand these rec- is about high school coursework— like learning, since you are going Take your first laboratory science sual and performing arts. Don’t ommendations. You are not partic- what to take, when to take it and to college to continue your educa- as well, biology. If the language leave that to your junior or senior ipating in a summer program, how much it matters (to get into a tion. So your best tool to help you you studied in middle school truly year. Unless you are an arts fo- taking core coursework or per- good college). In order to give get into college is to design a four doesn’t suit your interests, switch cused student, you will want to free forming an activity in order to ‘get back to a community which has year schedule that shows your to another language in your fresh- up your schedule for academic into’ college (although this may given so much to me, this article commitment to learning, and your man year so you can still complete subjects that help further explore well be one of the rewards); you addresses this question in the most willingness and ability to take core four years of a foreign language in and expand your interests, like cre- are doing it to help you better un- fundamental way possible. There coursework, and possibly some ad- high school. If language is not ative writing, if you love composi- derstand yourself and what you are, of course, many special needs vanced coursework during your your ‘thing’ be sure to take at least tion, or introduction to computer want to do in college and beyond. and unique situations to be consid- high school years. The recommen- three years and then supplement science, if you enjoy program- Parents, teachers and counselors ered. Still, there are some general dations below work well for each the dropped language with strong ming. support your college aspirations by principles that can apply to most of year in high school. A few are es- coursework that does interest you. 4. Challenge yourself. If you helping you understand and use the our students, most of the time. pecially important for certain grade 2. Take core coursework. Re- took Honors or AP classes in ear- power of your high school years. If you are a high school student levels. member, meeting minimum re- lier grade levels and enjoyed the that is college bound you should 1. Middle school sets the founda- quirements does not make you a challenge, continue taking ad- understand that the most powerful tion for your high school curricu- competitive applicant. In today’s vanced coursework in 11th and tool for getting into college rests in lum. Work hard and do well in a college admission world it is wise 12th grades. If you did not take ad- to go well beyond the minimum, vanced coursework in earlier not only to be admitted to college, grades, add one or two to your jun- but to be eligible for scholarships ior and/or senior year schedule. and grants to ease the financial 5. Use summers wisely. Colleges College Success strain of college costs. Continue say that fancy summer programs taking core courses in all academic that cost a great deal of money and subjects, including English, math- don’t enhance your education add Learn What You ematics, laboratory sciences, social little, if anything to the college ap- sciences, and a foreign language plication. On the other hand, taking Need to Know (see the tip above if you are utterly a college level class for credit to convinced you must drop lan- open your eyes to a new academic Elizabeth LaScala Ph.D. guides families •Exploring Majors and Careers through the sometimes complex guage.) Five core subjects plus interest or add depth to an existing world of college admission. She helps •Picking the Right Colleges one elective is ideal for your senior one does add value to your college students identify college majors and •Writing Great Essays year. In earlier grade levels you application. So does being gain- career paths, develops good fit will have additional coursework fully employed or participating in college lists, and provides essay •Preparing Strong Applications coaching and application support to because you are taking physical a program that builds substantive •Getting Financial Aid help students tackle each step of the education for two years and meet- skillsets (like laboratory methods admission process with confidence ing your visual and performing arts or customer relations), or doing an and success. Elizabeth also helps Elizabeth LaScala, PhD requirement. activity that helps meet a specific families maximize opportunities for scholarships and financial aid awards. 925‐891‐4491 3. Complete your VPA require- goal (like earning the President’s Visit www.doingcollege.com; Call www.doingcollege.com ment early. The University of Cal- Service Award or your Girl Scout (925) 891-4491 or email at ifornia (UC) and California State Gold Award). These types of en- [email protected]. Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B7 Introductory Offer - Six Mat Classes - $49.00 GETGET AHEADAHEAD IN IN MATH MATH THIS THIS YEAR FALL GRADES K-12   #     #       Evening Pilates Mat Class      !   "   6:00 pm HOMEWORK HELP FOR ALL LEVELS Flat Monthly Fee on Drop-in any time, no scheduling needed! Wednesdays   Limited Space-Sign up now! WHEN MATH MAKES SENSE, YOU SUCCEED! Must present coupon. New students only. www.starpilates.com 925-376-7500 3435 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette (Golden Gate Way at Mt. Diablo Blvd.) 1460 Moraga Road Suite F, Moraga, Moraga Shopping Center, behind McCaulous (925) 283-4200 www.mathnasium.com Students Learn from the Pros Submitted by Kristen Correll

Performing arts students gather on the Campolindo High School stage during the Feb. 14 event. Photo Provided ixty performing arts students offer this program to students in the we do our jobs well, I believe there would be a winning combination. School is preparing to do “Guys and Sfrom the Acalanes Union High AUHSD, saying, “I am always will be better shows on Broadway Campolindo High School will show- Dolls.” (See related story page A1.) School District spent a few hours at thrilled to have professional perform- and on television, and better films in case “Urinetown the Musical” in You can learn more about The Campolindo High School Feb. 14, ers speak with our students and put our theaters. But to my mind, the ul- March, Miramonte High School will Performing Arts Project by visiting even though they could have had a real flesh on the concepts we consis- timate goal is there will be better perform “Shrek,” and Acalanes High www.performingartsproject.com. day off, to participate in a Q & A pres- tently strive to achieve.” friendships and happier marriages." entation with Krysta Rodriguez The Performing Arts Project is a The AUHSD has many talented (“SMASH,” “First Date,” “Addams not-for-profit organization formed by performers and there was no shortage Family”) and Jonathan Bernstein a group of respected educators and of questions in the hour and half spent (artistic director of the Performing entertainment industry professionals with Rodriguez and Bernstein. As the Arts Project, New York director/artist, to help prepare the next generation of students prepare for their upcoming and faculty member at NYU). The performers. Bernstein noted that, school performances, many questions event was hosted by Campolindo "This place (The Performing Arts focused on how to create the best per- Music Director Mark Roberts, and Project) dedicates itself to being a formance possible for the audience. was sponsored by The Performing three-week laboratory whereby you Rodrigues shared with the group that Arts Project. have the freedom to be yourself. We understanding the characters while Roberts was pleased to be able to truly prize process over product. If making them authentically unique

Name that Gum! By Cathy Tyson

Marc h 3 – May 16 Join THE WRITING STUDIO this spring as your children enter a world of CREATIVE NARRATIVE AND ESSAY-BASED EXPOSITORY WRITING PROJECTS. Through grade appropriate classes and one-on-one H%%%%%%```%H%`%H%` `$1<%@1%I%1R1`1%%%H`0 %%%H`101`%H``H$`II`%%$%I%HI`8 THE WRITING STUDIO1%I`I11$%H %%%1%`101I`01`1`1$%@1%83`=H%H%1% G%`G1$1`1$%%1$I%`I`%`%``0% `%%%10%%%G1$`1%`%`H`=H%87%` Gum Tasters share a laugh as they guess flavors and brands during a recent contest at the Lafayette Library Teen Center. Photo Cathy Tyson R1@`$`I11@HMarch3RMay168 reative library assistant in charge the most correct number of flavors brary’s Teen Center to try their luck. 8`%``1`IHH Cof teen services, Patrick Brogan, and their corresponding brands would After much chewing, and discarding or had a unique idea for a gum guessing win a 380 count giant tub of Double used gum in Dixie cups, without so call 925-385-0Ϯ11. contest recently. While back in the Bubble gum. In the case of a tie, there much as a palette cleansing drink of THE WRITING STUDIO day food, drink and especially gum would be a bubble blowing contest as water in between rounds, many of the Where Words Come to Life was frowned upon in libraries, the a tie-breaker. contestants tied. So, as pressure Lafayette Library and Learning Cen- The lure of complimentary bub- mounted, it all came down to a bubble ter paved the way for respectful nosh- ble gum, along with bragging rights blowing contest to determine the win- ing. Brogan had a variety of gum proved irresistible. Stride, Orbit, ner. Young 13-year-old gum connois- flavors and brands separated into Wrigley’s, Juicy Fruit – if only the seur Anya Weinstein took home the numbered baggies; each participating students could focus so intently on tub of Double Bubble. “She was the Fast Expert Computer Help teenager got to chew and savor, how- their respective homework, as analyz- only one whose bubble was not only ever briefly, a piece of gum from each ing gum. A record and slightly rowdy biggest, but also did not pop,” said unidentified bag. Whoever guessed crowd showed up in the Lafayette Li- Brogan. New lower “A High-tech Brain with the Patience rates! Acalanes Senior Wins Logo Design Contest of a Mother” Submitted by Janet Supple “If your computer needs attention, call techmommy, a computer expert enior Zach Kisner won a logo design contest held that can skillfully fix it. Also, techmommy guides you, teaches you, in Susan Lane's Graphic Design class at Acalanes S and shows you the ins and outs of your computer in no time at all.” High School to create a new logo for the Nurtury Pre- – Marian Nichols, Moraga school located on the campus of Moraga Valley Presby- terian Church. Kisner was awarded with a check and a • Troubleshoot any PC problem. certificate for his efforts. Connie Kelleher, director of • Help in plain English, not tech talk. the MVPC Nurtury Preschool, said, "Our school en- • Virus and spyware removal, system clean-up. joyed the opportunity to work with such talented high • Master e-mail, web searches, filing, attachments. school students and I am very excited about the new de- • Program iPod, cell phone, Blackberry, camera, GPS. • Personal training in your home. sign." MVPC Nurtury Preschool, is located in Moraga, at 10 Moraga Valley Ln. Information about preschool 925-377-7711 www.techmommy.com can be found at www.mvpctoday.org/programs/nurtury- Image provided preschool. Serving the Bay Area’s Technology Needs Since 1985 Page: B8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014 Share Your Celebrations and Remembrances If you would like to share an announcement about a special event or achievement, such as a wedding, engagement, scholarship or graduation of a local resident, or about a special person from Celebrations Lamorinda who has passed, send a photo along with your text (up to 250 words) to [email protected], and include “Celebrations and Remembrances” in the subject line. Local Author: Fire and Wings – A Hot Burning Love Story An Orinda Author’s Obsession Two Campo grads celebrate the wedding of their dreams ith palm trees blowing in the breeze, New novel melds fact and fiction, Won a sunny Sunday in October 2013, radio personality Heather Brittany and fire- shines light on silent film star fighter Brian Rankin tied the knot in a vine- By Lou Fancher yard fête at the elegant Villa de Amore in faded to occasional outings with bud- Temecula, Calif., officiated by fellow fire- dies; the antique upright piano be- fighter, Steven Marczinko. One hundred and came a dust bunny haven; travel fifty guests traveled to this Southern Cali- meant descending their Orinda fornia viticulture paradise from around the home’s staircase to write for up to ten globe to celebrate. The couple placed love hours a day in “the dungeon.” Murillo letters written to one another into a wooden said he writes “until I lose my muse,” box containing a bottle of their favorite vin- which seemed quaint and even laugh- tage to be opened on their fifth anniversary. able, until he insisted she’s real to The Matron of Honor was Jamie him. “I call her Molly, because the name seemed to flow. When she takes Zeimer York, their Moraga friend who has off, I quit for the day,’ he said. known them individually for over 18 years Orinda author Robert Murillo Photo provided “The Vanity” is a blend of fact and re-connected the couple at her wedding. ong before former stock broker and fiction. Brooks’ allure, jumping “They are both my best friends and if they Land first time author Robert out of a 1927 snapshot Murillo saw, were a bottle of wine, the label would read: Murillo penned his debut book, “The amplified itself into the story of Mike This wine is the perfect balance of elegance, Vanity,” he was a 9-year-old boy, curl- Lundy, a writer living in Brooks’ for- depth, and sweetness. Its robust flavors are ing up with a radio. His imagination mer home – but in the year 2011. intense, spicy, yet, smooth. Each sip of this set aflame by sci-fi broadcasts and Time travel allows their lives to over- complex blend will leave you wanting more, tales of quirky time travel, his child- lap and Lundy considers whether or making it clear you are experiencing magic,” hood fever for fiction never dimin- not he should intercept the scandalous stated Jamie. The Best Man was Brian’s images and thus, alter destiny. ished. Murillo will read from and youngest brother, Michael, who kept the Murillo said he loves films, but if discuss his novel at 1 p.m. Saturday, guests laughing with his gentle jests directed March 1 at Orinda Books. Joining given a choice between a stack of at his older sibling. Flowers for the tables him will be Thomas Gladysz, DVDs and a stack of books, he’d founder/director of the Louise Brooks chose the latter. “When you read, and bouquets came from the brides’ family Society – and several ghosts. things happen in your imagination,” Lamorinda gardens. “With great friends and Yes, ghosts. Because Murillo has he explained. “It’s less the director’s four generations of family, it was the most been haunted by Louise Brooks, a point of view and more your own in- perfect, beautiful, blessed day of our lives!” real-life silent film star, ever since he terpretation.” the happy couple chirped. retired from his job as a Wells Fargo He also chose to self-publish Heather and Brian enjoyed an exotic financial advisor in 2009. using CreateSpace, because of its extended honeymoon in Japan and Thailand. “My original retirement plan was close connection with Amazon. to learn to play golf and the piano. I “They promote it and make it possible also wanted to travel and write,” he to have the book on your Kindle, your said. phone, or in your hand,” he said. “The Murillo had been a high school ease of buying a book on Amazon led Classified • Classified • Classified • Classified English teacher in Richmond for 11 me.” It’s a statement putting him in an years, prior to moving into the finance awkward position, he admitted, be- sector, so thoughts of writing didn’t cause of his great devotion to inde- arrive out of the blue. Suzanne, his pendent bookstores. “As a book wife of 43 years, encouraged his am- buyer, I go to Orinda Books all the bition, suggesting a short story he’d time. I think there’s room for both.” written might have legs for a longer At Orinda Books, Murillo will journey. Neither of them knew that speak about his writing process and Brooks, whose films and bobbed Gladysz – who Murillo calls “the haircut inspired a moderate, but rabid world expert on Louise Brooks” – fan base that continues to this day, will bring information about a movie would soon consume Murillo’s Brooks made in Berkeley. A Q&A thoughts. will follow, accompanied by “unbe- “I got hooked,” Murillo said. “I lievable refreshments” Murillo said began to think, what if she wins the will arrive courtesy of Suzanne. negatives back (the real life Brooks After promoting “The Vanity,” he sued a photographer to retrieve risqué plans to return to the dungeon. He’ll photos he threatened to release) and be listening to Molly and working on doesn’t destroy them? And then, what “The Thirty-Third Floor,” a collection if someone steals them from her?” of short stories based on his life as a Murillo’s dreams of shooting par stockbroker.

Classified • Classified • Classified

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Orinda Resident • Free Estimates Fencing with loving • Virus and spyware removal, Up to $1,000 Off on a $10,000 Job parents in a system clean-up. safe 925-323-9908 Ken’s Quality Fencing environment. • Master e-mail, web searches, [email protected] Custom redwood fences & retaining Could that be you? There are filing, attachments. Lic. #922081 We hop to it! walls installed. Free estimates many adorable cats & kittens to • Program iPod, cell phone, licensed, bonded & insured. CA#667491 choose. Give us a call: Judy @ Blackberry, camera, GPS. (925) 377-6600 925-938-9836 www.kensrototilling.com 925-788-8675 or Michelle @ • Personal training in your home. LeapFrogPlumbing.com 925-324-7519. Call Alison 925-377-7711 Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B9 These Muffins Don’t Need Gluten or Team Members Pitch In By Cathy Tyson Dairy to be Yummy! hole Foods marketing team Wmembers are pitching in By Susie Iventosch their non-work talents for a fundrais- erance or sensitivity to gluten, may ing drive that runs through the end of feel better by avoiding it. March. Professional chalk artist According to articles on David Kleven, a team member who is WebMD.com and Harvard Health responsible for all of the lovely chalk Publications, it is strongly suggested signage throughout the store will be that a person consult with their doctor donating some unique handmade before going on a gluten-free diet, es- chalk art, Lani Lee from Customer pecially if they suspect a gluten al- David Kleven Photos provided Service Support, a youth minister and lergy, or Celiac disease – a disease busy mom of five will be donating that causes damage to the small intes- healing body work, and Jennifer tine when gluten is ingested. The rea- Spencer, who works in the bakery de- son for this is that the diet can skew partment will also be contributing her the results and interfere with a true di- original artwork. agnosis. Also, a gluten-free diet can These are just some of the dona- be lacking in minerals, vitamins and tions that shoppers can look for and fiber. People who choose to eat a bid on to raise money to go to the gluten-free diet may want to consult Whole Planet Foundation – a charita- with a nutritionist to make sure they ble non-profit organization that seeks are getting the fiber they're accus- to alleviate poverty through micro- tomed to and the essential vitamins credit loans in communities around Gluten/dairy-free cinnamon streusel muffins Photo Susie Iventosch and minerals they need. the world that supply Whole Foods here are not many conversations chronic pains have disappeared, or it's Although I've never had a prob- Markets with products. The grocery Taround food these days that improved gastrointestinal issues, or lem with gluten or wheat, I do love store chain covers all of the operating don't involve a discussion of gluten they've had an easier time losing these muffins and would like others, costs of the foundation, so that dona- allergies or intolerance, and the grow- weight, or they just plain feel better. even those with gluten or dairy issues, tions go directly to micro-lending. ing demand for a gluten-free diet. At So what is gluten, anyway? By to be able to enjoy them. So, I have Since 2006 they have partnered first, I was somewhat skeptical, think- definition, gluten is a mixture of two replaced the wheat flour with rice with professor Muhammed Yunus ing it a bit trendy unless there was a proteins present in cereal grains, es- flour and the milk with coconut milk. and the Grameen Bank, co-recipients real diagnosis of Celiac disease. But pecially wheat, but not limited to The recipe turned out nearly identical Lani Lee of the Nobel Peace Prize, to give more and more people seem to be wheat, and it is responsible for the to the regular recipe, except that the something back to those in commu- testing the results of such a diet, and elastic texture of dough made with rice flour makes them a little finer in nities who have helped the store suc- many Lamorinda restaurants now flour from these grains. People who texture. Next time, I am going to try ceed, while focusing on world offer gluten-free menu options. Quite have Celiac disease have an abnormal making them with apple juice in place poverty and hunger. The foundation a few of the people I've spoken with immune response to gluten and of the milk and see how that works is currently supporting over 330,000 who've gone off gluten say that shouldn't eat it. Those with an intol- out. Enjoy! women micro-entrepreneurs in 59 different countries around the world. Sources: Giving back via direct micro-credit http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/celiac-disease/features/gluten-intolerance-against-grain loans is a way to create constructive http://www.livescience.com/39726-what-is-gluten.html economic partnerships with the poor http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletters/Harvard_Health_Letter/2013/April/considering-a- in the developing world. Loans go to gluten-free-diet?utm_source=health&utm_medium=pressrelease&utm_campaign=health0413 a wide variety of businesses like fur- http://www.webmd.com/diet/healthy-kitchen-11/truth-about-gluten niture making, tailoring, handicrafts, homemade and bakery made foods, Jennifer Spencer clothing and more. Gluten/Dairy-Free Cinnamon Streusel For example, Pod from Borikhan in Laos used her loan to enhance her Muffins weaving business; she recently pur- (Makes 12 muffins) chased a used sewing machine to fin- ish her hand-made woven products INGREDIENTS that she sells locally. With an average loan size of $175, extending a rela- 1 cup light brown sugar tively small amount of credit can 2 cups rice flour make a world of difference to these 1 teaspoon sea salt women and help them support their 1 teaspoon cinnamon families. 2/3 cup canola oil “This will offer a new perspective 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, or combination of our team members,” says Jane 2 eggs Shafer, marketing and community re- 1 cup lowfat coconut milk, or coconut milk creamer lations team leader. 1 teaspoon cider vinegar 1 teaspoon baking soda

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 12 muffin tins generously with cooking spray.

Mix first four ingredients together in a large bowl. Add oil and stir with a fork or spoon until crumbly. Set aside 1 cup of this mixture along with the chopped nuts for streusel topping.

To main batter, add eggs, coconut milk, vinegar and baking soda. Mix until smooth.

Divide batter evenly in the 12 muffin tins. Then, sprinkle streusel topping over each, completely covering batter with crumb topping.

Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until tester comes out of muffin centers clean.

These can be stored in the freezer for several weeks.

Susie Iventosch is the author of Tax Bites and Tasty Morsels, which can be found at Across the Way in Moraga, www.amazon.com, and www.taxbites.net. Susie can be reached at [email protected]. This recipe can be found on our website: ww.lamorindaweekly.com. If you would like to share your favorite recipe with Susie please contact her by email or call our office at (925) 377-0977.

Reach 60,000+ in Lamorinda Advertise in Lamorinda Weekly Call 925-377-0977 today

Thank you for your help in advertising our seminar. It's already full and I am still receiving many calls each day. J. Page: B10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014 Not to be missed Not to be missed Lamorinda’s 15. A new show featuring paintings rade,” an Editors' Choice on The New ART by Kerima Swain and Karen Kramer York Times Best Seller List. He lives Religious Services opens March 19. Meet the artists at in San Francisco and teaches in the Orinda Library Art Gallery Febru- the opening night reception from 5 to MFA program at USF. His latest ary exhibitors: Kabir Adejare, his- 7 p.m. Saturday, March 22. The novel “Fight Song” was published in tory makers; Robert Wahrhaftig, Gallery is open from noon to 5 p.m. February 2013. portraits; Carole Dwinell, multiple Wednesdays - Sundays, and is located disciplines; ceramic artists of at 522 Center St., Rheem Valley Lafayette Physical Therapy is Lafayette Gallery. For more informa- Shopping Center, Moraga. For info, pleased to announce their fourth tion visit www.orindaartscouncil.org. visit moragagallery.com. annual lecture series with information on injury prevention, fitness, and Saint Mary’s College Museum of MUSIC other related topics for the commu- Art – four exhibitions now on view. nity. Highly educated and skilled From Swords to Plowshares: Metal A celebration of the Pacific Cham- physical therapists as well as highly Lafayette United Methodist Church Trench Art from World War One; ber Symphony at 7:30 p.m. Friday, respected doctors and community Songs of the Patriot: How Music Feb. 28 at the Community Hall, professionals will share their knowl- 955 Moraga Rd., Lafayette, Helped Win World War One - through Lafayette Library and Learning Cen- edge with you. More info on Face- 284-4765, offi[email protected] original chromolithographic cover il- ter. Mozart's Concerto for Clarinet in book.com/LafayettePT. All Lectures Worship Sunday 10 am lustrations of popular songs, sheet Children/Youth Sunday School A Minor, Schubert's Symphony No. 5 are from 7 to 8 p.m. at 3468 Mt. Dia- Sunday 10 am music and lyrics, this exhibition ex- Youth Fellowship Sunday 6 pm in B Flat Major and the world pre- blo Blvd. Suite B110, Lafayette. On plores how music publishers, song- miere of Christopher Caliendo's Sher- Tuesday, March 25 Kevin Wong, DC. writers, cover artists, and singers lock Holmes Suite. For tickets: $30 Will discuss “Everyone’s Feet Tell a generated support for troops overseas; seniors; $35 adults; $10 students with Story – Are You Listening?” Seating Malcolm Lubliner: The Automotive ID; children under 13 free with adult for lectures is limited: call (925) 284-  SundaySund Worship, 9:00 & 11:00 AM, Landscape - The noted Bay Area pho- – from Brown Paper Tickets or call 6150 to RSVP and reserve your seat. with programs for 3-mos.-12th grade. tographer and Los Angeles native re- 800-838-3006.  Seedlings Preschool, M-F. ceived an MFA in photography from KIDS, PARENTS & TEENS Otis Art Institute. This gorgeous and  Something for Everyone, THEATER sometimes humorous display reveals Spring Soirée to celebrate the ex- speakers, small groups, classes, his life-long love affair with the car. The Acalanes Performing Arts De- traordinary family and community youth groups, mission trips, more! William Keith: Nature’s Tranquil partment is proud to present Frank support of the Moraga Education Splendor - A rotating selection of oil Loesser's “Guys and Dolls,” an adap- Foundation from 6 to 9 p.m. Thurs- LAFAYETTE-ORINDA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH paintings from the College collection tation of Damon Ruyon's urban tale day, March 6 at the Moraga Country See more at LOPC.org is always on view. Open 11 a.m. to of gamblers, dancers, and love at 7 Club. This is an open house featuring 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sun- p.m. March 6, 7, and 8 in the Per- the talents of Moraga K-12 Students day. For info, call (925)-631-4379 or forming Arts Center at Acalanes High accompanied by a complimentary visit stmarys-ca.edu/museum. Admis- School 1200 Pleasant Hill Rd. Tick- tasting of local wines and delicious ORINDA CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH sion: free to K-12 graders; $5 adults. ets: $16 for Adults; $14 for seniors appetizers. Delight in the sights and Free parking. 24 Orinda Way (next to the Library) - 254-4212 (60 and older) and students. Tickets sounds of our talented Moraga youth, may be purchased by going to the and experience the other incredible Sunday Service and Sunday School 10 - 11 am Town Hall Theatre is pleased to an- Acalanes Webstore: programs made possible through Informal Wednesday Meeting 7:30 - 8:30 pm nounce a free art exhibit in their https://acalaneshs.revtrak.net/tek9.asp MEF support. This event is for par- Reading Room/Bookstore M - F 11 - 4; Sat 11 – 2 gallery at 3535 School Street, ?pg=products&grp=38. (See related ents and community members. Lafayette. "Greeting the New Year," www.christianscienceorinda.org story page A1) which runs through March 8, is a col- Campolindo High School’s produc- An evening of fashion fun - fashion orful and energetic exhibit showcas- tion of “Urinetown” – said to be bril- sewing summer camp open house ing the work of eight members of the liantly funny and sure to be a romping hosted by Sewnow from 6 to 8 p.m. Lamorinda Arts Alliance. Gallery good time – will be performed on two Thursday, March 6 includes live em- hours are from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday - weekends, March 13-16 and March broidery demos, previews of summer Friday and for one hour before per- 20-23. For tickets and showtimes, camp programming, and a free Worship the Lord! formances. For more info, contact cu- visit www.showbiz4u.com. (See re- bracelet making 'make and take' ac- Sundays, 9 & 10:30am rator JoAnn Lieberman at lated story page A1) tivity. Preview the Spring/Summer [email protected]. The Miramonte High School pro- 2014 fashion colors and trends, and duction of “Shrek the Musical” will ask expert instructors which summer With nearly two million veterans in run March 13-16. Tickets and show- program is perfect for you. RSVP on Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church California and a generation of vet- times at www.showtix4u.com. (See the Sewnow Facebook page. 10 Moraga Valley Lane, Moraga CA erans returning from two wars, Contra related story page A1) Sewnow is located at 3534 Golden XXXNWQDUPEBZPSH
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 Costa County Library has launched a Gate Way in Lafayette, with free timely and relevant project, War Ink, Town Hall Theatre’s production, parking at 3503 Golden Gate Way, an online exhibit of Iraq and “God of Carnage,” runs through and plenty of meter parking. Full Afghanistan veteran memorial tattoo March 15 at Town Hall Theatre at the camp info available at art. War Ink will launch on Veterans corner of Moraga Road and School www.sewnow.com, or call at (925) Day 2014, and represents a platform Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church Street in Lafayette. For tickets, con- 283-7396. to explore the unfiltered record of war tact the Town Hall Theatre Box Of- 433 Moraga Way, Orinda, 254-3422 that veterans have documented on www.holyshepherd.org fice at (925) 283-1557, or purchase Story Hour at Orinda Books from their body. Veterans interested in the online at 10 to 11 a.m. every Thursday. All 2- 8:15 a.m. Traditional Worship project are encouraged to contact www.TownHallTheatre.com. (See 4 year olds with their grown-ups are 9:40 a.m. Education for all ages Jason Deitch directly at jason- 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship related story page B5). invited. Cathy G. hosts a delightful nd Coffee Fellowship at 9:15 and 11:45 a.m. [email protected] or (510) 593- lively hour. Childcare available for ages 5 and younger 8423. LECTURE & LITERATURE Better Homes and Gardens Mason- The Orinda Arts Council is pleased Contra Costa Tale Spinners: Keep- McDuffie’s Education Foundation is to announce its 11th Annual Visual ing the Oral Tradition Alive from 7 now accepting nominations for out- Arts Competition! Open to all high to 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. Come standing public school teachers for school students attending school in one, come all to a wonderful evening their 2014 grant program. Every year, the Acalanes Union School District, of stories. Come tellers new and old Better Homes and Gardens Mason- 66 St. Stephen’s Drive, Orinda which includes Acalanes, Cam- with your tales of enjoyment. Come McDuffie Real Estate awards cash 254-3770. www.ststephensorinda.org polindo, Miramonte, and Las Lomas listeners to laugh, cry and clap in de- grants to outstanding public school Sunday 8am, 10am & High Schools, and/or residing in light. Featured performer Nancy teachers in an effort to acknowledge 5:30p.m. Casual Eucharist Orinda, Lafayette, or Moraga. Artists Schimmel, followed by “open mic” their priceless contributions to our and Awards Reception from 4 to 6 stories on the fourth Thursday of children’s future. It is their way of p.m. on Wednesday, March 12 and every month, Gallery Room of the giving back to the communities in Exhibit March 1 - 27, Orinda Library Orinda Public Library, 24 Orinda which their realtors, owners, man- fàA Z|Äxá XÑ|ávÉÑtÄ V{âÜv{ Art Gallery. For more information, Way, Orinda. Contact Sally Holzman, agers and staff work and live. To visit: orindaarts.org or (925) 478-8488, or Liz Nichols at nominate a favorite teacher for 2014, An Inclusive & Affirming Community http://orindaarts.org/schools/high- [email protected]. Free. Plenty of visit www.bhghome.com/education- Sunday School & Eucharist at 9am school-visual-arts-competition St. Mary's College Chapel safe parking. foundation. The deadline is March 31. 1928 St. Mary's Rd., Moraga 925-376-5770 - www.stgiles-moraga.org Lafayette Art Gallery’s new exhibi- Multimedia update on "An Incon- OTHER Traditional Church Service & Music Yet Forward Looking & Open Minded tion, “Location – Location - Loca- venient Truth." As part of the Wine tion!” opens March 4; the current and Tapas Speaker Series, Wei-Tai For the fifth year, San Francisco’s exhibit, “Love at first Sight” contin- Kwok presents the latest facts and laugh-lovers will have the renewed ues through March 1. “Location – Lo- findings about the climate crisis from opportunity to enjoy a champagne- cation – Location!” . . . may be the 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 8 at Our filled night of comedy at the landmark The Orinda rule of real estate but what does it Saviors Lutheran Church Friendship Orinda Theatre at 7 p.m. Friday, Community Church mean to the artists at the Lafayette Art Hall, 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette. As March 7. Advance discounted and Gallery? First, it means the gallery An Open and Affirming Congregation of the United Church of Christ a volunteer climate leader, Wei-Tai VIP tickets may be reserved until has a new location with almost twice 10 Irwin Way, Orinda | 925.254.4906 | www.orindachurch.org was trained by Al Gore in an effort to March 6 using credit cards at the the space, three times the windows provide greater public awareness Chamber website – “No matter who you are, wherever you are on life’s and light, and an artistic heritage at journey, you are welcome here!” around this issue. Bring a drink or www.OrindaChamber.org – or at First Join us Sundays at 10:00 a.m. The Forge, built on Mt. Diablo Boule- small plate of food to share. Republic Bank, 224 Brookwood Sunday School 10:00 a.m vard by the noted metal artist Carl Road. Tickets at the door (if available) Jennings in 1946. Regardless of the Saint Mary's College Creative will be at increased pricing. Advanced meaning, the gallery is celebrating Writing Reading Series: Joshua reservations are recommended, so at- “Location” with the new exhibit Mohr, author of four novels, includ- tendees should reserve early. opening March 4 through May 3. A ing “Damascus,” which The New St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church reception will be held from 5 to 7:30 A Loving Community York Times called "Beat-poet cool," ... continued on next page p.m. Friday, March 14. will speak at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sunday Services: 8 and 10 AM March 12 at the Soda Center, Claeys In-church Youth Zone, 10 AM Nursery Childcare Moraga Art Gallery’s show “Good Lounge. Mohr also wrote “Some Looking: California Revealed” fea- Please submit events to: 682 Michael Lane, Lafayette, 284-7420, www.stanselms.ws Things that Meant the World to Me,” turing watercolor paintings by George one of O Magazine's Top 10 reads of calendar@lamorinda Ehrenhaft and oil paintings by Loreta 2009 and a San Francisco Chronicle weekly.com Landucci continues through March best-seller, as well as “Termite Pa- Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B11 Not to be missed Not to be missed Not to be missed may be reserved until March 6 using for March. Financial advisors, attor- OTHER ... continued credit cards at the Chamber website – neys, medical offices, and other busi- GARDEN Montelindo Garden Club Meeting www.OrindaChamber.org – or at First nesses can meet their legal obligation (third Friday, September through St. Mary's College Guild’s presents Republic Bank, 224 Brookwood to dispose of clients' information re- Lafayette Garden Club March May) will be at 9 a.m. Friday, March a St. Patrick’s Evening from 5:30 to Road. Tickets at the door (if available) sponsibly, while helping send Lamor- meeting and Plant and Garden Sale 21 at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 10 p.m. on Sunday, March 9 at the will be at increased pricing. Advanced inda middle school girls to AAUW's will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 13 66 St. Stephens Drive, Orinda. Visi- Soda Center on the Saint Mary's Col- reservations are recommended, so at- Tech Trek Science and Math Camp. at the Lafayette Christian Church 584 tors welcome. Topic: Succulent Jewel lege Campus. The evening includes tendees should reserve early. Shredding details: Government Spec- Glenside Dr., Lafayette. Speaker Boxes. The speaker will be Patrick music, a show and silent auction with ified Approved Shred, HIPAA Com- Stephan Andrews, UC Berkeley pro- Lannen, garden designer and consult- a traditional corned beef and cabbage CSEA Tax Help Day - Get Your Tax pliant Shredding, TWIC Certified fessor, will discuss “Good Soil, Bad ant, Flora Grubb Gardens. For info, (chicken fettuccini) dinner and wine. Questions Answered. Enrolled Drivers. Certificates of Destruction Soil, and Soil,” and include a soil test- visit www.montelindogarden.com. A no host bar opens at 5:30 p.m. $45 Agents, “America’s Tax Experts” will and Donation receipts will be pro- ing demonstration. For info, contact per person. Call Billie Jones (925) be answering tax questions free of vided. [email protected]. 254-3645 for reservations. Everyone charge from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, is welcome. March 7 at the Lafayette Chamber of SENIORS Please submit events to: Commerce 100 Lafayette Circle, and Workshops on “How to Raise Your Women's Initiative for Self Employ- Sons in Retirement Lamorinda [email protected] Own Chickens” in Lafayette. Topics ment 1814 Franklin St., Suite 200, Branch 171 meets the first Wednes- will include raising young chicks, lay- Training Room, Oakland. Please visit day monthly at Holy Trinity Culture ing hen maintenance, and sustainable the Taxpayer Information Center on Center 1700 School St., Moraga. So- coop construction. Workshops are www.csea.org, or call 1-800-TAX- cial hour 11 a.m.; lunch at noon. The St. Patrick's Evening free and will be held from 1 to 3:30 PRO-5 for more information. after-lunch speaker on March 5 will of Dinner, Music, and Show, with Silent Auction p.m. on Sundays during March. be Mark Peterson, Contra Costa Reservations are required. Contact: The Moraga Book Sale will take County district attorney. His Office is Mc'd by Dick Callahan [email protected]. place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the responsible for prosecution of crimes Moraga Library Saturday, March 8. committed in Contra Costa. His office March 9th (5:30 P.M. - 10 P.M.) Daughters of the Goddess, a Bay Proceeds from this sale help support also actively supports and develops no host bar @ 5:30 P.M., @ Soda Center on St. Mary's College Campus Area Women-only Goddess Tem- library programs for children, teens, programs aimed at crime prevention. Join us for a traditional corned beef & cabbage ple, will be holding its annual celebra- and adults, new materials for the li- Mark will provide current updates on (chicken fettucini) Dinner - wine included at dinner tion of Spring Equinox from 7:30 to brary, and continued Sunday hours. If his department activities and share $45 per person - inclusive 10:30 p.m. Thursday, March 20. East you have any questions, please con- some of his experiences as district at- Bay location address upon RSVP. tact [email protected] or at (925) torney. Silent Auction i.e.: Newcomers: $15. Call Leilani at 360-0572. Hotels: Sir Francis Drake-Hilton; SF-Embassy Suites; (925) 787-9247, email Health matters for Boomers and Lafayette Park Hotel Golf: Olympic Club; Lakeside SF; Moraga Country Club [email protected] Volunteer opportunity: English tu- Beyond: Embracing the Benefits of Restaurants i.e.: Alfred's Steak House, SF; Original joe's, m, or visit www.DaughtersoftheGod- tors needed. The next workshop Living a Balanced Lifestyle. Health North Beach; Tarantino's Fisherman's Wharf; dess.com. will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sat- experts will be covering various Michael's of Moraga; Mr. Lucky's Pleasant Hill urday, March 22 and Saturday, March healthy aging topics, as well as offer- Musical review: Beach Blanket Babylon Another year of classic films is 29 at the Good Shepherd Lutheran ing free mini fitness classes suitable Sponsored by: Saint Mary's College Guild scheduled for Moraga's New Church, 4000 Clayton Rd. in Con- for all levels from 9 a.m. to noon Fri- Rheem Theatre. A time-honored cord. English need not be your first day, March 7 at the Orinda Library. Call Billie Jones 925-254-3645 for reservations movie is slated for the third Wednes- language – no teaching experience is Free. Registration begins at 9 a.m. in Everyone is welcome !!! day of each month. New for 2014: 1 required – we will teach you to be a the Orinda Library auditorium. Cof- p.m. starting time. Each film program tutor. You must attend both sessions. fee, tea and treats will be available. For is introduced by Larry Swindell. There is a nominal fee to cover the more info, contact Beth Girshman, Once again, the 8th annual Lamor- training and material costs. Adult vol- Orinda Library, [email protected], inda district wide film festival will be unteers typically give one or two or call (925) 254-2184, ext 15, or visit Service Clubs held, this year showcasing over 20 hours per week. For more information www.friendsoftheorindalibrary.org. films at 7 p.m. on Feb. 28 at Cam- visit our website at dvlc.tripod.com. (See related story page B5) polindo High School's Performing Art To register call our hotline and leave Announcements Center. LAUFF (Lamorinda Acalanes a message at (925) 685-3881 or e- The Boomers’ Journey to 100 Years Union Film Festival) showcases the mail us at [email protected]. Young - a workshop to empower best of student films from the com- and prepare Boomers from 5:30 to munity. Free Film Screening – “Behind the 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 20 at the Orange Curtain” from 6 to 8 p.m. Lafayette Library, Art and Science The East Bay's Best Bridal Fair will Tuesday, March 25, Miramonte High Center. Workshop Topics: Aging Explore Lamorinda Rotary clubs The heart of A global volunteer organization working to Rotary is our clubs- dedicated people who share improve the lives of women and girls be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun- School Theater. Panel Discussion and Families, Levels of Care Covering a passion for both community service and friend- through programs leading to social and eco- day, March 2 at the 5-star Lafayette Q & A will immediately follow the Hospital to Home, and Common Es- ship. Learn about Lamorinda’s Rotary clubs. nomic empowerment. Park Hotel. Sip champagne, sample film screening. http://www.signupge- tate Planning Pitfalls. Wine and hors hors d'oeuvres and meet with the nius.com/go/10C0E45A8A928A02- d’oeuvres provided. Registration re- Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary Club finest wedding vendors in the East signup1. quired by Tuesday, March 18. Email We meet Friday mornings at 7 am at Celia’s Mexican Restaurant, 3666 Mt. Bay as you plan that once-in-a-life- Lori Luckenbach at LoriL@Elder- Diablo Blvd, Lafayette. For more info, please email us at [email protected] time wedding. Tickets: $15 at Our creeks, environment, and careAnswers.com or call (925)324- Febuary 28: March 7: www.EastBayBridal.com. sewage treatment – How does it all 5985. Please Kevin Cragholm , Sr. David Gerson, Lafayette work? Speaker, Michael Scahill, join us! Join visiting experts for inspiring from the Central Contra Costa Sani- The First Friday Forum, "The Vil- Analyst-Bank Examiner School District details of historic shifts in U.S. pol- tary District, will give a free public lage Concept – A New Way of for the Federal Reserve Governing Board Bank, San Francisco member will speak on icy in 2013 and hear testimonies of lecture sponsored by Friends of Aging,” with Ruth McCahan and and LSR member will the upcoming parcel the power of prayer, advocacy and ed- Orinda Creeks at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Andy Amstutz as presenters will be at “expose himself”. tax measure. ucation, starting at 10 a.m. Sunday, March 26 in the Garden Room at the 1:30 p.m. March 7 at Lafayette- March 2 at the Lafayette Orinda Pres- Orinda Library. Learn about: How the Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox byterian Church Fellowship Hall, 49 Central Contra Costa Sanitary District Drive, Lafayette. Refreshments Knox Drive, Lafayette. Content ap- works, the Sanitary District as a stew- served at 1 p.m. in Fellowship Hall SOROPTIMIST OF 24/680 Please join us for our next meeting: propriate for ages 13 years and up. ard to the environment, and how we followed by the lecture in the Sanctu- WHEN: Wednesday Wednesday 1/8/14 3/5/14 Childcare available by reservation, can prevent sewer overflows. For ary. The Village Concept began in Social Social 5:30-6:00 5:30-6:00 p.m. p.m. [email protected] by Feb. 28. info, contact Jim Luini, (925) 254- 2001. It combines efforts of members Meeting Meeting 6:00 6:00 – –8:00 8:00 p.m. p.m. Questions? Call (925) 812-2496. 6208. with services of local vendors and WHERE: The Buttercup Grill community organizations to off serv- 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. For the fifth year, San Francisco’s State-of-the-art “cross-cut” shred- ices to help keep seniors in their own January Speaker: laugh-lovers will have the renewed ding will be done from 9 a.m. to 1 homes either free or at a discount. The Sister Caritas Foster – “Modern Day Slavery/Trafficking” opportunity to enjoy a champagne- p.m. Saturday, March 29 at 5A Rent- Lamorinda Task Force is in Phase II “Improving the lives of women and For more information, contact: filled night of comedy at the landmark A-Space in the Shred Defense Truck of the development process. Come girls through programs leading to Regina Englehart @925-876-9076 Orinda Theatre on Friday, March 7. starting at just $5 per file box. Save learn about this new vision for the social and economic empowerment” or go to: soroptimist24-680.org Advance discounted and VIP tickets your boxes of papers to be shredded seniors of Lamorinda. Lamorinda Weekly is an independent publication, produced by and for the residents of Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda, CA www.Lamorindaweekly.com 26,600 printed copies; delivered to homes & businesses in Lamorinda. Contact us: Most Frequently Viewed Stories From Our Last Issue: Letters to the editor (max 350 words): [email protected] Sport events/stories/pictures: [email protected] - Lamorinda Couples Share the Secret Art, theater, community events: [email protected] to Their Longevity Business news or business press releases: [email protected] - The Big Business of Trash Accusations School stories/events: [email protected] fly as $500M contract looms General interest stories/Community Service: [email protected] - A Survivor's Heart Publishers/Owners: Andy and Wendy Scheck; [email protected], [email protected] - After Impasse, Whats Next? 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Printed in CA. Mailing address: Lamorinda Weekly, P.O. Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570-6133 Phone: 925-377-0977; Fax: 1-800-690-8136 email: [email protected], www.lamorindaweekly.com If you wish to view any of the stories above go to www.lamorindaweekly.com and click the link below the story. Page: B12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

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Sophomore Sabrina Ionescu started the scoring for Miramonte in the win over Campolindo. Photos Gint Federas 925-283-2100 • www.ShermanSwim.com he Diablo Foothill Athletic eight steals to go with her 11 points tournament. Miramonte head coach TLeague girls’ basketball season and senior Mariah Seals added 17 Kelly Sopak says his team is ready for finished last week with Miramonte points and eight assists. the tournament. “This is the best time going undefeated in all 12 games on The Dons finished at 4-8 in the of the year for the players, coaches their way to a 25-1 regular season DFAL and 11-15 overall. and parents,” he noted. “All the hard record. Campolindo finished in third After sweeping DFAL play, Mi- work gets revealed in the next 4-6 place for an 8-4 DFAL record and 16- ramonte is poised to win the NCS weeks.” ... continued on page C2 10 overall. The North Coast Section seeding meeting was held on Feb. 23 and both Miramonte and Campolindo qualified as high seeds, No. 1 and No. 3, re- spectively. Both teams earned first round byes and will play at home on Friday, Feb. 28. In their last week of DFAL play, the Mats spoiled Senior Night at Campolindo on Feb. 18 by beating the Cougars 80 to 45. Campo junior Ashley Dubrasich started the scoring for the Cougars with a lay-up but Miramonte came 9:;<=>=?>@?> right back behind sophomore Sabrina          Ionescu’s runner and two 3-pointers   in the period. The Mats never looked FKLLM>QZ[K\]^>>> >>>]\_`]^>@\bj\[k[>>> >>><m]Z[]>qvxx> back, pushing the lead to 37-16 by ./346/37/6666666 halftime. Ionescu finished with 23 points and led all scorers. The Mats completed their perfect DFAL season on their own Senior Night, Feb. 21, beating Acalanes at home 72-21. Senior Breanna Alford Kyle Davis had 23 points and 14 rebounds to lead Mortgage Consultant/Owner/Partner the team. Senior Megan Reid had Senior Breanna Alford had 23 points in the win over the Dons. Lamorinda Resident Since 1995 BRE License #01111347/NMLS #274107 Direct: 925-314-5299 Campolindo Wins DFAL [email protected] All three Lamorinda programs reach NCS 319 Diablo Rd., Ste 103 • Danville • CA BRE Lic. # 01327738, NMLS#280803 By Michael Sakoda RATES ARE NEAR ALL TIME LOWS! the score tied. Later, the Cougars went 30 YEAR FIXED RATE TO $1,000,000! on a 16-3 run, taking a 28-12 lead. “Last time we played, it was a 4.500% /4.500% APR similar game, and they came back and GREAT CONFORMING RATES! beat us in the second half,” said Fixed Rates to $417,000 Fixed Rates to $625,500 Cougars’ coach Matt Watson. “So the RATE APR RATE APR effort level on our side was not going 30 Year Fixed to let up this time.” 3.875% 4.075% 4.375% 4.375% Five Cougars hit at least one three- 15 Year Fixed 2.875% 3.075% 3.375% 3.375% pointer. “They shot the ball really well in “PROVIDING PREMIER LOAN PRODUCTS AND SERVICE FROM the first half,” said Miramonte’s coach THE MOST EXPERIENCED AND SOLUTION-ORIENTED PROFESSIONALS IN YOUR COMMUNITY.” Drew McDonald. “As we stretched the zone, they were able to get inside.” Call 925-314-5299 for Today’s Quote! Campolindo’s Chris Hansen, who This is not a loan commitment, nor is it a guarantee of any kind. This comparison is based solely on was held to just four points in the first estimated figures and information available at the time of production. Interest rate is subject to contest, finished with 16 points, seven borrower and property qualifying. rebounds and two blocks. Stonecastle Land and Home Financial, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Lender. ... continued on page C4

Andrew Zolintakis Photo Gint Federas ampolindo, Miramonte and 6-6 DFAL) handed Campo its first and CAcalanes wrapped up DFAL only loss in league play 69-68 on a play last week with two rivalry games game winner from Drew Anderson. on the schedule before opening the On Feb. 18, the Cougars hosted and first round of the NCS playoffs. routed the Mats, 73-52. The Campolindo Cougars (20-6, Miramonte scored the first four 11-1 DFAL) had payback on their points of the contest, but back-to-back mind. On Feb. 1, Miramonte (15-11, layups from Andrew Zolintakis saw Page: C2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014 Campolindo Boys Advance to NCS Soccer Semifinals By Marissa Harnett

Preston Kilwien recorded in an assist against Las Lomas. Photos Gint Federas Michael Samaniego (#27) had the second goal of the game against Las Lomas. ivision II high school soccer Feb. 19, Campo shut out No. 15 Las On Feb. 23, Campo faced No. 7 Campo and No. 1 Ygnacio Valley. the Dons improved as the season pro- Dconcludes this Saturday at the Lomas, 2-0. Bishop O’Dowd. Historically strong, Last year the two teams faced off in gressed to earn third place in DFAL NCS championship match. The only While the match was competitive, O’Dowd came out fighting and de- an extremely physical semifinal and the No. 13 spot in the tournament. Lamorinda boys’ team still alive in the most of the action was at Campo’s fending well. However, Campo uti- match in which Campo came out on They fell in the first round, 3-2, to bracket, No. 2 Campolindo, is on goal. After more than 10 minutes of lized their strengths to bypass the top. The Cougars had been down by No.4 Hercules. track to the finals. They face No. 3 anxious play, junior Preston Kilwien O’Dowd defense. All three Campo two goals until the last four minutes Acalanes held a 1-0 lead at the Dublin in tonight’s semifinal, 7 p.m. drilled a big kick from the midfield goals were scored with headers. At when they scored twice to tie and then half. Despite battling hard in the sec- at Campo. Acalanes also qualified for straight at goal. Senior co-captain 13 minutes junior Ryan Donat scored won it in sudden death overtime. ond half, the Dons ceded their lead NCS as the No. 13 seed. They fell in Gus Keeble got his head on it to find the first of his two goals. “I think it'd be fair and exciting and the game. “The Acalanes play- the first round to Hercules. the top left of the net. Two minutes into the second for the two of us to meet up in the ers performed well showing tremen- After a disappointing second With eight minutes left in the first half, senior co-captain Will Sim- final if we can both progress through dous intensity, passion and place finish last year, this year’s half junior Michael Samaniego fired off mons whipped one of his running the other stages of NCS,” Carney outstanding character,” said head league champion, Campo, has their a huge shot from the midfield. Hard, throw-ins to reach the front of the said. “Our game last year in the semi- coach Paul Curtis. eyes on the prize. “I'd be lying if I said low, and fast, it penetrated the crowd goal where Donat was waiting to finals against YV was probably the With a decidedly young team our goal wasn't to win it all,” admitted around the goal and found the back of net his second goal. Two minutes most exciting game I've ever been a this year, the Dons focused on re- head coach Shane Carney. “We be- the net. The second half remained later senior Zach Taylor headed part of,” he added. building. “Constant progress was lieve we have a good shot at it if we're scoreless and Campo won, 2-0. Campo’s third and final goal off an- To get the finals though, Campo made in training on individual and able to finish our chances and mini- Carney considered Las Lomas a other Simmons’ throw-in. O’Dowd needs to first make it past No. 3 team development and improve- mize mistakes in our defensive third tough first-round opponent and ac- scored their one and only goal in Dublin tonight. Having won one and ment,” Curtis said. “The program is of the field,” he said. knowledged that the Cougars were not the last 10 minutes, ending the tied one during the regular season, in good shape going forward as there Campo’s journey to the semis has at peak performance. “We didn't play game, 3-1. Campo will have their work cut out will be over 50 players returning to been decisive. Although both games our best game, but we put the effort in If the bracket plays out according for them. the program next season.” have had just a two goal differential, to earn a shutout and took care of to the top seeding, the finals would be Acalanes: Acalanes finished their season 5- the Cougars dominated the play. On some of our chances on goal,” he said. an intense showdown between After a slow start to the season, 5-2 in league (7-12-4 overall).

Miramonte Wins DFAL ... continued from page C1

Megan Reid eight steals to go with her 11 points against the Dons. Photos Gint Federas

Although Miramonte will host the winner of the Hercules/Pinole Valley game, their biggest rival, Bishop O’- Dowd was disqualified from the NCS tournament because they played one more game than allowed under the rules. Senior Ariel Padua goes up for the shot. “I am stunned about Bishop O'- Dowd,” Sopak said. “We wanted to earn the right to face them again.” Without O’Dowd, there is a chance for an All-Lamorinda NCS final. Cam- polindo begins the tournament run against the winner of the Petaluma/Sonoma Valley game. “Our team is excited to be in the playoffs. That was our goal from the be- ginning of the season,” said Cam- Follow us on polindo’s head coach Art Thoms. “The Twitter@LamorindaSports Ashley Dubrasich looks to hit the free throw. girls have big dreams.” Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: C3

Girls’ Soccer Strong in NCS Playoffs By Scott Wu ith the competitive regular tack. Mohamed said Tehaney is the not allow the excitement to over- Wseason finished, Lamorinda centerpiece to the backfield while whelm us,” he added. “It is key that girls’ soccer programs look to earn Fessenden is the backbone of the de- we maintain our composure and focus the North Coast Section title. Mira- fense. At forward, Reid is a key piece for the duration of the tournament.” monte, who finished 13-2-1, won the of the offense. Each played well in The Cougars did just that in their DFAL championship and earned the the first round victory. next contest, as they secured their No. 1 seed. Campolindo, 12-3-1 on Moving on to the next round, the spot in the semifinals with a victory the season, followed closely behind Matadors played No. 8 Alhambra, over Northgate as the No. 3 seed. Both teams ad- beating the Bulldogs 4-1. Reid Silva said his team knew what to vanced to the semifinals to be played recorded two of the goals, while expect against Northgate, their sec- tonight. Despite rivaling both Mira- Tehaney and Fessenden controlled ond round match-up. “We played monte and Campolindo in thrilling the tempo of the game defensively. Northgate earlier in the season, we regular season games, Acalanes did Under their leadership, the team can knew that they are well coached and not advance to the 16-team playoff. focus on planning ahead. “The have the ability to challenge us in all In the first round on Feb. 19, Mi- strong senior class always plans the aspects of the game,” he said. ramonte cruised to an 8-0 victory next possession,” Mohamed ex- Campolindo’s squad narrowly against No. 16 Moreau Catholic. plained. defeated the Broncos by a score of “We played great soccer, and Miramonte will take on the No. 2-1. took care of the ball on every posses- 4 Las Lomas Knights in a semifinal The Cougars have a specific sion,” said head coach Mohamed game Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. strategy for their playoff run. “We Mohamed. Campolindo, who was matched will need to establish the pace and Mohamed named three standout up against No. 14 Tennyson, also tri- energy that suits our game early on; players who have contributed exten- umphed 5-1. it is best if we can force the opposi- sively to the team chemistry. Goal- While content with his win, head tion to make the adjustments,” Silva keeper Mali Tehaney, center-back coach Ernesto Silva said that it is im- explained. Jane Fessenden, and Megan Reid portant to stay focused. “We need to The Cougars travel to face No. 2 each add a key component to the at- make sure we stay in the moment and Bishop O’Dowd on Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. Mali Tehaney Photos Gint Federas

Hailey Lyon Jane Fessenden www.lamorindaweekly.com Submit stories to All of our stories are available on our web site and are archived back to our first issue (March, 2007). [email protected] You can read the current issue at the Read Online tab, or click Archive (we prefer to receive your original photo file, to read earlier issues. For your convenience, all stories are available as minimum size: 200 dpi and 1200 pixels wide) a single-page for downloading or sending to friends and family.

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Buster Souza had 18 points against the Mats. Chris Hansen had 16 points. Photos Gint Federas The Mats couldn’t get into straight DFAL loss at home to within four, 42-38, but it was- an offensive rhythm. Drew An- Acalanes (15-11, 5-7 DFAL) n’t enough. derson, who’s averaging 20 49-43. Souza finished with 18 points and 10 rebounds a Acalanes’ execution won points, 14 rebounds and 5 game, was held to just one them the contest. blocks. Zack Kisner added field goal. With a minute to go in the nine points to go with his 4 as- The Mats were paced by first half, the score was 20-19 sists and Matt Thomas fin- 15 points, three rebounds and in favor of the Dons, when ished with eight points. three assists from Joey Buster Souza pulled in his All three Lamorinda Goodreault, but even he strug- seventh rebound of the half, teams were selected for the gled, committing five of the threw an outlet pass to Brett NCS Division III playoffs this team’s 13 turnovers. Merrill, who found Ross Te- year, and had opening round For Campo, Zolintakis ichman under the basket to lay games Feb. 25. racked up 16 points, four re- it in. Souza stole the subse- No. 3 Campolindo hosted bounds and seven assists and quent inbound pass and scored Albany, while No. 5 Acalanes Matt O’Reilly added 14 points two of his 10 first half points, tried to defend their home to help lock up the school’s giving Acalanes a 24-19 lead. court against San Marin, and third DFAL title in the last five With just over five min- No. 6, Miramonte looked to years. utes to play in the fourth quar- steal one at Analy. Follow Just 48 hours later, the ter, Jackson Wegener hit a @lamorindasports on Twitter Mats suffered their fourth deep three to bring the Mats to for score reports.

Zack Kisner had nine points and four assists against the Mats. Drew Anderson goes up for the shot. Submit stories to [email protected] (we prefer to receive your original photo file, minimum size: 200 dpi and 1200 pixels wide) Wednesday, February 26, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: C5 Lamo Varsity Rugby Showcases Talent at Cal Submitted by Steve Peterson

The Lamorinda Varsity Rugby team at Witter Field in Strawberry Canyon at Cal. Photo provided he Lamorinda Rugby Football Club’s varsity team defeated North Bay 38-10 on The game was particularly special for head coach Ned Anderson, a Cal Hall of Fame TFeb. 15. The match served as a “Curtain Raiser” for the Cal Bears who took on rugby player and coach. the University of British Columbia right afterwards. Cal also won its match 33-22. Winter Games Continue for Locals LMSC Sends Athletes to Play at Submitted by Leslie Ryder Next Level Submitted by Corinna Sassano

Sierra Ryder earned second place in the Western Region Elite Tech National Qualifier Photo provided From left: Emily Orwig (Campo), Cal Poly; Jane Fessenden (Miramonte) MIT; Jessika Martinez, hile the Olympics have finished, the the country Oregon State; Julia Reshke (Campo), Georgetown; Lindsay Wilson (Campo), Emory; Mali Wcompetition is just heating up for four Brooke Norton, a junior at Campolindo, Tehaney (Miramonte), UC Davis. Photo Brian Fessenden local ski racers who qualified for the Regional Lisa Rose Longton, a junior from Orinda, and he LMSC G95 team has players talented Campolindo sends Emily Orwig to Cal and National Ski Championships. Will Leonard, a senior at Campolindo, all qual- Tenough to play at the collegiate level. Poly, Julie Reshke to Georgetown and Lindsay Sierra Ryder, a senior at Miramonte, quali- ified for the Western Region Junior Champi- While a few athletes are still contemplating their Wilson to Emory. Miramonte sends Jane Fes- fied for U18 Nationals to be held Feb. 28 onships that will take place March 4-9 at Squaw next step, several players have already signed senden to MIT and Mali Tehaney to play at UC through March 6 in Colorado. Valley. Letters of Intent with schools. Davis. Ryder took the Silver in U18 Slalom, Norton won the gold in the Super G Western Bronze in U18 Giant Slalom at the Western Re- Region qualifier on Feb. 6. She will race against gion Elite Tech National Qualifier in February. the top Western Region Ski racers. Ryder will race against the top 45 U18 ladies in Lamorinda Wins Soccer State Cup Submitted by Paul Pitt Karate Athletes Bring Home Medals Submitted by Thomas Westernoff

Back row, from left; Isla burch, Katherine Liu, Anna Pitt, Avalon Scheone, Monique Zarling, Ivy Souza, Coach Pedro Osorio, Yasmeen Idao, Katherine Dunn, Sierra Harley, Jamie Bishop; Front row: Alex Bonardi, Celia Campo, Christine Massoni, Caitlin McDonagh, Holland Ericson, Mallory Louis, Juliet Adams. Photo provided From left: Kai Thomas (silver in kata), Jared Avenell (silver in kata and bronze in kobudo), Justin Simpson (gold in kumite), Logan Simpson (bronze in Kumite), Trevor Simpson (gold in he Lamorinda United U12 Navy Girls back into the goal by defender Monique Zarling. kata and bronze in kumite), Arleen Thomas (gold in Kobudo, gold in Kumite and bronze in Tsoccer team capped a great season with COSC leveled a few minutes later on a fast Kata), Morgan Langstaff (gold in Kumite and bronze in Kata), and coach Sensei Thomas West- an exciting 2-1 victory over highly ranked break attack. Just before half time a great de- ernoff. Photo provided COSC 01 girls’ Red team from Fresno to win fensive play by Avalon Scheone resulted in a even members from The Karate & Fitness old competed in beginner through advanced lev- the State Cup Final. pass to Katherine Liu whose powerful run took SPlace USA returned home from the West els. The game started at a fast pace with both her past three defenders and then the keeper for Coast Karate Championships held in Yuba City Lamorinda athletes brought home 12 teams playing high level soccer. Midway what proved to be the winning goal. on Feb. 16. Hundreds of athletes from all over medals in Kata (Forms), Kobudo (weapons) and through the first half Lamorinda took the lead In the final minutes a great save by goal Northern California came to participate in this Kumite (sparring). when a corner by Anna Pitt was headed off the keeper Mallory Louis preserved the victory for event. Participants ranging from 4- to 65-years- line by a COSC defender, only to be headed the Lamorinda girls. Page: C6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014 Dons are DFAL Champs Submitted by Karen Elliott

From Left: Sean Hisaki (Coach), Maya Canonizado, Allyson Anderson, Allison Merrill, Emily Attiyeh, Delila Tesfai, Melissa Elliott, Naomi House, Bella Denny, Cara Wolfe, Carly Porep, Emilie Mali- novsky, Maddy Ponzo, Sabina Patel, Sophie Ross, Victor Silva (Coach), and Asiana Tam. Photo Karen Elliott he Acalanes junior varsity girls’ basketball team defeated Miramonte on Feb. 21 ington Holiday Invitational Tournament in Fremont in December. They lost to Bishop Tto end the season with a perfect 12-0 record and the DFAL league championship. O’Dowd in the championship. Overall, the team notched a 20-6 record, including a second place finish in the Irv- The young team includes five sophomores and 10 freshmen.

Mats JV Wrestling Wins on the Mat Making the Cut Submitted by Johnny Santos Submitted by Dax Lowry

Daria Torba Regina Kong Sophia Kong Photos provided he USA Synchronized Swimming pro- Regina Kong of Moraga and Daria Torba of Tgram announced its 2014 U.S. 13-15 year Orinda qualified for the 13-15 year olds’ team. olds and 12 and Under National Squads on Feb. Sophia Kong of Moraga made the 12 and Under 19. Three Lamorinda athletes made the cut. team. From Left: Jared Deloso, Joseph Santos, Alec Gates, Max Han, Max Fleming, and Joseph Baie. Photos provided Johnny Santos he Miramonte junior varsity wrestling team com- Acalanes Senior Night Tpeted in the JV North Coast Championships at Dougherty Valley on Feb. 8. The team was led by fresh- Submitted by Kristin Kisner man Max Fleming who won all four of his matches en route to the first place medal in the 106-lbs division. Other medalist include: sophomore Jared Deloso who earned sixth place at 182-lbs, sophomore Joseph Santos who earned fourth place at 120-lbs, freshman Alec Gates who earned sixth place at 132-lbs, junior Max Han who earned fifth place at 132-lbs, and freshman Joseph Baie who earned fifth place at 170-lbs. Max Fleming Santa Maria Wins in Overtime Submitted by Teresa Juergens

Photo provided calanes students celebrated the seniors on with a win over Dublin after honoring Matt Atheir basketball team by showing their Thomas, Kyle Kinnear, Ross Tiechman, Zack support in a big way. Acalanes walked away Kisner, Brett Merrill and Buster Souza. CYO Champs Advance Submitted by Michael Lenahan

Top row, from left: Ryan Miller, Nolan Brown, Sam Foster, Nick Foster, Leo Korsunsky, Cole Wolfe, Andy Schrittwieser, Elijah Hodges and Tim Tague; Bottom row: Ethan Kohler, Fletcher Simon, Jackson Hegarty, Nicolai Bell, Brendon McCulloch, Sam Ross, Kenny Kostermans, Donovan Davidson and Benjamin Chinn. Photo provided he Santa Maria fourth grade National tory in overtime during its last game on Tteam was cheered on to a 25-22 vic- Feb. 8 by the Miramonte freshman team. Follow us on Twitter@LamorindaSports

Back Row, from left: Coach Michael Lenahan, Mark McCurdy, Ryan Fritch, Hunter Clarke, Ryan Lenahan, Jake Crumbaugh, Coach Julie Clarke; front row: Kyle Sintchak, Rex Curtiss, Kellen Submit stories to Clancy Photo provided [email protected] t. Monica’s sixth grade American boys’ Championship. The champions finished the sea- Sbasketball team beat St. John Vianney 54- son with a record of 18-2. The team qualified 36 on Feb. 16 to win the West Diablo League for the Oakland Diocese playoffs. amorinda LOUR HOMES

Lamorinda Weekly Volume 07 Issue 26 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Cynthia Brian’s Garden Guide

...read on page D8 Disaster Preparedness Isnít Only About Storing Bottled Water Block by block, communities ready themselves By Chris Lavin ine-year-old Sean Swanson of Canyon has Nit down. What would he do if a wildfire was suddenly sweeping up the canyon? “Take the important documents,” he said firmly, “and go to the staging area.” He is asked if he knows what important documents are, or where they are kept. His mother breaks into his detailed response regarding exactly what, exactly where. “We’ve talked this. We have meeting spots,” says Sonya Wilson, mother to Sean and Orion. “We’ve practiced it.” But then Sean broke in: “And then I would get the pictures, and my fish, and my mealworms. And watch after my brother.” “No,” 6-year-old Orion replies. “I will look after you.” We are all told repeatedly that it’s coming. “The Big One.” Maybe a nearby fire, instead of an earthquake. We’re overdue for the quake, and the dry weather has the worried among us looking at tinder-like brush piles beneath bay trees on slopes. Residents are told to prepare an earthquake kit, order pharmaceuticals ahead, make sure to have a flashlight and shoes by your bed. We’ve heard it all. Sean Swanson, left, and his brother Orion hold up the disaster preparedness signs they have ready to And we’re tired. We’re either prepared or we’re not. post outside their house in the aftermath of an emergency. The signs are provided through the fire depart- Most of us fall into the latter category. ment with a grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Photo Chris Lavin According to the California Emergency Man- agency names “citizen preparedness” as the weak- inaccessible to emergency crews – and to public agement Agency, fewer than 20 percent of Califor- est link in the chain of disaster readiness. In the works crews able to clear felled trees, providing ac- nians are prepared to last relatively comfortably for Lamorinda area, with its narrow, winding roads cess to services and stores and hospitals. three days without power and water, although and remote neighborhoods, a big disaster will ...continued on page D4 Northern California is slightly more prepared. The likely leave hundreds, if not thousands, of pockets Page: D2 OUR HOMES Wed., February 26, 2014 GLENN AND KELLIE BEAUBELLE Lamorinda Home Sales recorded The Beaubelle Group of Coldwell Banker City Last reported: LOWEST AMOUNT: HIGHEST AMOUNT: LAFAYETTE 3 $690,000 $2,350,000 MORAGA 3 $450,000 $915,000 ORINDA 3 $849,000 $2,110,000 Home sales are compiled by Cal REsource, an Oakland real estate information company. Sale prices are computed from the county transfer tax in- formation shown on the deeds that record at close of escrow and are published five to eight weeks after such recording. This information is obtained from public county records and is provided to us by California REsource. Neither Cal REsource nor this publication are liable for errors or omissions. LAFAYETTE 112 Haslemere Court, $690,000, 3 Bdrms, 1638 SqFt, 1988 YrBlt, 1-28-14; Previous Sale: $248,500, 05-03-88 1986 Marion Court, $925,000, 4 Bdrms, 3040 SqFt, 1978 YrBlt, 1-22-14 15 Northridge Lane, $2,350,000, 5 Bdrms, 5902 SqFt, 1987 YrBlt, 1-17-14; Previous Sale: $2,200,000, 10-19-00 MORAGA 1040 Bollinger Canyon, $450,000, 1515 SqFt, 1953 YrBlt, 1-28-14 1515 Camino Peral #C, $460,000, 2 Bdrms, 1428 SqFt, 1970 YrBlt, 1-27-14; Previous Sale: $140,000, 08-04-88 1743 Spyglass Lane, $915,000, 3 Bdrms, 2828 SqFt, 1985 YrBlt, 1-16-14; Previous Sale: $340,000, 05-02-86 ORINDA 109 Lombardy Lane, $849,000, 3 Bdrms, 1392 SqFt, 1951 YrBlt, 1-22-14; Previous Sale: $850,000, 07-29-13 38 Los Altos Road, $2,110,000, 3 Bdrms, 3799 SqFt, 1970 YrBlt, 1-24-14; Previous Sale: $1,330,000, 09-14-12 20 Muth Drive, $1,002,000, 4 Bdrms, 2202 SqFt, 1960 YrBlt, 1-17-14; Previous Sale: $863,500, 11-26-08

Knowledgeable - Professional - Reliable - Local MORAGA ~ COMING SOON Committed to exceeding your expectations! This desirable single level home with approx. 4,152 sq. Ō. sits on an almost ¾-acre lot at the end of a cul de sac. Its many classic features include a bright and open Ňoor plan with beauƟful detailing Paul & Virginia Ratto throughout its four bedrooms plus oĸce, four baths, master bedroom suite wing, amazing gourmet eat-in kitchen with adjoining 925.998.9501 family room, garage space for three cars including Įnished one-car [email protected] garage with cable and electrical wiring ideal for home gym or work- www.RattoandRatto.com shop, and grand entry with direct License #: 00900621 | 01361537 view to the beauƟfully landscaped backyard, vine-covered arbor and fountain. Oīered at $2,095,000

G½›ÄÄ ƒÄ— K›½½®› B›ƒç›½½› 925.254.1212 TheBeaubelleGroup.com CalBRE#00678426 CalBRE#01165322 ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 Kurt Piper Group

Reservoir Neighborhood

• 3 bedrooms, 1 bath • 4 bedrooms, 2 baths • 933± • 2000± • $599,000 • To be priced $1.1M range

! JUST LISTED

• 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths  • 3 bedrooms, 3 baths %``( • 1700± "c • 2100± %)*+ • $849,000 63 Bates Blvd., Orinda • $999,000

Kurt Piper Amy Price

925.818.8000 415.606.2047 415.990.4929 925.997.6808 925.216.7583 **`* Page: D4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Disaster Preparedness ...continued from page D1

are already organized or attempting to organize. Its first step: Look after your family, but then “reciprocal altruism” takes over. The idea is to be self-sustaining after any type of disaster. The brochure includes “Help” and “OK” signs to hang outside your house to let neighbors know your status. As the brochure says, “In a disaster, your neigh- bors are your closest sources of help.” People have different abilities,” Goodwin said. Some people can look after children, some will know how to approach a collapsed structure, some will know CPR. “That’s the critical thing,” Goodwin said. “If you have a person with a crushing injury, or someone with a heart attack, and emergency services can’t get in, you need to know how to get that person out.” In other words, one must know who has a chain- saw, or a four-wheel drive. Contractor Rolland Mathers of Shelter Belt, Inc., points out some fire ladder hazards to EBMUD's Mark Silva “It’s a starting point,” Goodwin says about the in Canyon. Photos Chris Lavin brochures. The next step is to get to know the neigh- For it’s when the ground settles, the work begins. Goodwin said. But things change all the time, he bors, so that reciprocal altruism can take over when “That’s the scary part,” said Jonathan Goodwin, added. Tenants change, people have babies, elderly disaster strikes. the community appointed fire-and-disaster chief of parents move in or people become incapacitated. “Everybody loves a potluck,” Goodwin said. So the small community of Canyon, west of Moraga. The MYN brochure outlines nine steps to take maybe we should all plan to have one. “People don’t think about what happens after.” (See after a disaster, and is intended for neighborhoods that related story on page B2.) People in Canyon, as in other neighborhoods in Lamorinda, are thinking about those moments “after.” The United States Geological Survey offers interactive maps (www.usgs.gov and search shakemaps) that show that Moraga, for instance, sits mainly on mud. “You can expect landslides and closed roads,” Good- win said. Yet the key to getting through any disaster, he added, is to consider the concept of “reciprocal altru- ism.” It is a concept that is widely accepted in biologi- cal fields, one in which organisms help each other to keep them all alive and healthy. Using in part an elab- orate brochure funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, called “Map Your Neighbor- hood,” and available through the fire department, Canyon and other neighborhoods are beefing up their awareness of who lives where, who has pets, who might have an elderly relative, or who might have chil- dren home alone after school. “Here in Canyon, we know most of that already,” Residents from Canyon meet at Canyon School to discuss plans for reacting to an emergency.

believe in the art of living well. 301 El Toyonal COMING SOON! Orinda PATTI CAMRAS REALTOR® All the romance and character of a CalBRE# 01156248 signature style Cape Cod is present 925-899-9282 in this beautifully restored home [email protected] featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 5 Moraga Way, Orinda approximately 2489 Sq. Ft. www.patticamras.com

Call Patti Camras for details.

Offered at $1,300,000

©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304

Quinn Berg WWW.HOLCENBERG.COM Broker Associate Direct: 925.765.2996 Client satisfaction: a family tradition [email protected] www.quinnberg.com We're here to help CalBRE #01872891 "Thank you and Michelle for a wonderful job in selling my house. ©2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office You and Michelle were so professional is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 and so experienced. You knew how to handle any and all situations that came up. You are a great team!" Wendy Holcenberg GET A FREE QUOTE TODAY [email protected] Suzanne, Moraga seller 925.253.4630 Katie Larsen Auto • Home • Life CalBRE#00637795 Business Michelle Holcenberg Agent Workers Compensation Call today so we can help [email protected] Larsen Insurance Agency Lafayette 925.253.4663 you reach your 2014 real CalBRE#01373412 3746 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite 110 estate goals. Lafayette Phone: (415)665-2955 or (925)962-9065 [email protected] ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 This is just part of the picture when you buy or sell in Lafayette.

Specialists in Lafayette real estate… Where market expertise, integrity and exceeding client expectations are our paramount objectives. We counsel clients based upon market facts, not conjecture.

Consistently among the top in our business, our measure of success is always Quality.

Ron Rothenberg, MBA Marketing & Finance Susan Rothenberg 925.286.5530 License #: 01309986 | 00857547 TeamRothenberg.com | [email protected]

Must See in Happy Valley!

1229 Rose Lane, Lafayette • Offered at $2,975,000 • 1229RoseLane.com Located on one of the most desirable streets in the Happy Valley neighborhood of Lafayette, this 4+BR/3.5BA home offers over 6000± sq. ft. of living space on a 1.4±AC parcel. Mostly one level with high ceilings, wide hallways and skylights. Formal living & dining rooms, eat-in kitchen with bay window & adjacent family room, expansive rec room, home office and more! Level out to patio, pool, lawns, rose garden and lighted sport court.

Nancy Rothman Susan O. Peterson 2 Theatre Sq, Suite 117 510.701.0230 or 925.381.2211 Orinda 925.258.0090 [email protected] | [email protected] pacificunion.com License #: 01016626 | 00992024 A Member of Real Living Orinda ~ One of a kind, beautifully land- Walnut Creek ~ µNjsǼĶŸOǼÞŸŘ_sǣONjÞEsǣǼÌÞǣ Coming Soon! Tucked away in Lafayette’s scaped 3/4 acre lot. Exceptional French Tu- ĶsɚsĶsŘǼNjɴDsOŸŘNJÞ_¶sǼŸɠŘÌŸȖǣsʳˢEs_˚ desirable Happy Valley, 2-story charmer dor, 4 bdrms 3.5 baths + lg private office in NjŸŸŎǣˡʳˤEǼÌǣɠÞǼÌŎǣǼsNjŸŘǼÌs¯ÞNjǣǼ¯ĶŸŸNjʳ has 4 bdrm, 2.5 bath, 3280 sq ft hm on 1.2 the main house, 781 sq ft guest house. Up- ȕƼ_Ǽs_ĨÞǼOÌsŘŘ_ōǣǼsNjEǼÌʳËNj_ɠŸŸ_ acres, w/pool. Downstairs bonus rm. Close dated kitchen w/huge center island open to ¯ĶŸŸNjǣʰˡONjǼǼOÌs_¶Nj¶sʳʳʳʳŗŸNjsNj to dwntwn, Hwy 24, Lafayette Reservoir Family rm. Lg pool & spa. Call for pricing & ŘsÞ¶ÌEŸNjǣʳÝǼÞǣˆˠ˟ˇʵ Listed at $774,000 and top-rated schools. Call for details. your private showing! Gretchen Bryce 925.683.2477 Paddy Kehoe 925.878.5869 [email protected] [email protected]

Brentwood ~ Custom Single Story in the Gates of Apple Hill Estates! Stunning hm w/nearly Knightson ~ Country property on nearly 10 2,200 sq ft. of elegance. Spacious 4 bdrms, (fourth bdrm has no closet), 2 baths, marble flrs acres. Lots of potential! Phenomenal views throughout, w/black granite diamond-shaped insets. The fabulous kit w/cook’s island features of Mt. Diablo, 2 wells on property, hm is as cherry custom cabinetry & black granite slab, state of the art SS appliances including wine is. Close to local school, Delta & more chiller. To many upgrades to mention, a must see to believe! $699,000 $499,000

Heidy Hurst www.575GarnetTerraceBrentwood.Com 925.584.6377 Page: D8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Cynthia Brianís Gardening Guide for March “It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.” — Charles Dickens,

Wake up! The days are getting longer and warmer. Nature is stretching and coming out of its winter slumber. Our flowerbeds are beckoning. The fruit tree buds are bursting with color (some a bit too early) while daffodils and tulips carpet the terrain. Soon it will be springtime when the season of outdoor chores officially begins. Even with the six inches of rain of mid-February, a drought is imminent. Be water conscious and conservative. March is the month to aerate, dethatch, reseed, re- plant, or replace lawns. With water consumption as a major issue of all lawns, consider planting less thirsty turf such as Buffalograss, fescues, zoysia grass, orBhaia grass as alternatives. St. Patrick’s Day reminds us that green is the color of the month as we hope for the greening of our landscapes and Cymbidiums will rebloom when placed outdoors in a hillsides. ... continued on page D10 northeast location, or buy these orchids in bud at local outlets. Photo Cynthia Brian

Valerie Durantini Presents Spacious contemporary Townhome tucked away on a cul-de-sac that opens to the bike trail. Enjoy the Country Club lifestyle which includes swimming, tennis and golf as well as the clubhouse with restaurant. Close to the Moraga farmers market, hiking, biking and award winning schools. This 2291 sq. ft. Plan 4 home has 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms features a serene master suite with vaulted ceilings and updated master bath with skylight; a lovely front patio area for outdoor entertaining; an updated eat-in kitchen with granite slab counters, stainless appliances and recessed lighting; a gracious living room with brick fireplace and sliders that open to back deck; and a dramatic dining room which opens to private deck area. Hardwood floors 109 Westchester Street in the Moraga Country Club throughout the common areas. The forth bedroom has a private full bath and its own balcony and could also be used as Valerie Durantini 925.253.4657 family room or studio. www.valeriedurantini.com Moraga school district for K-8 Acalanes school district for high school. Visit valeriedurantini.com

for more photos CalBRE# 01376796 and information.

The positive momentum continues to build in our local housing market. Inventory remains low but it will not stay that way forever. If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell remember…….. VAL BRINGS VALUE

©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 Wednesday, February 26, 2014 925-377-0977 www.lamorindaweekly.com OUR HOMES LAMORINDA WEEKLY Pag e: D9

East Bay Luxury Home Sales Jump 17% in January, According to New Report Submitted by Steve Maita he East Bay's luxury housing market began the new year with a bang as sales in off last year with very strong sales gains and a solid increase in prices," said Rick Tur- TJanuary were up sharply from a year ago and the median sale price rose as well, ley, president of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. "Well qualified buyers see according to a new report by Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, the Bay Area's good value in the local luxury market and continue to push sales and prices higher." leading provider of luxury real estate services. The figures are based on Multiple List- Turley said the one hurdle facing the luxury market in the East Bay – as well as ing Service data of all homes sold for more than $1 million last month in Alameda throughout much of the Bay Area – is a serious shortage of homes for sale. Inventory and Contra Costa counties. of available homes is down more than 50 percent from a normal market, and there A total of 90 luxury homes sold last month, up from 77 transactions in January aren't enough properties to meet the tremendous demand from buyers. 2013, a 17 percent increase. High-end sales were down from December's 160 units, "Homeowners who have even kicked around the idea of selling should think although it's not unusual to have a drop from year-end closings. Meanwhile, the me- seriously of jumping into the market now," he said. "Real estate has always been a dian sale price of a luxury home in January rose to $1,325,000, up 6 percent from a business of supply and demand, and right now this is very much a seller's market. year ago when the median stood at $1.25 million and up 1.1 percent from the pre- Savvy homeowners who sell now are in a very favorable position." vious month when it was $1,310,500. There were nine sales of more than $2 million The East Bay Luxury Housing Market Report is a monthly report by Coldwell in January, up from eight at the same time last year. Homes also sold faster on average Banker Residential Brokerage, a specialist in high-end real estate sales with nine East than they did the previous month and a year ago. Bay offices serving Berkeley, Castro Valley, Danville, Fremont, Oakland, Piedmont, “The East Bay's luxury housing market began the new year right where it left Orinda, Pleasanton, and Walnut Creek. For more information, call (925) 771-5285.

Stylish Single Story in Fabulous Location Tastefully updated throughout and located on a picturesque cul de sac within walking distance to some of Lafayette’s best amenities! Offering approximately 2,550 square feet, this spacious and flexible floor plan boasts four bedrooms and three full baths. Vaulted ceilings and plentiful natural light create an open flow. Access to the scenic, creekside backyard through the family room or newly remodeled kitchen provides seamless indoor outdoor living. The tranquil Master bedroom includes a spa-like en suite bath. Fourth bedroom, also with separate outdoor access, is ideal for use as a home office, in law, or au pair suite. Walking distance to downtown restaurants and shops, close to BART, Offered at $1,195,000 Oakwood Athletic Club and award winning schools! virtual tour at www.1036DoloresDrive.com

Presented by SUE LAYNG

Cell: 925-963-7189 • [email protected] • www.SueLayng.com ASSOCIATES CalBRE # 000970956 REAL ESTATE Page: D10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Cynthia Brianís Gardening Guide for March ... continued from page D8 • CHECK out Renee’s Garden online catalogue for the best seeds from their trial cosmos, gilia, linaria, gardens. I’m experimenting with their Scatter Garden Canisters and will plant nepeta, tithonia, the cover crop mix this summer. Visit www.reneesgarden.com. monarda, coreopsis, • SAVE rain water by positioning wine barrels or garbage cans under drain spouts. lantana, and lavender. Use a hose to water garden. Don’t use roof water for edibles. • EXPERIMENT • ENRICH your soil by making your own compost utilizing kitchen scraps, lawn with growing your clippings, shredded leaves, coffee grinds, and other plant matter. Spread a layer own gourmet mush- of two inches to improve your soil, maintain moisture, deter weeds, and feed rooms at home. your plants. Check out the five- • LOOK for bird nests in low hedges and under shrubs before pruning or trim- pound bag selections ming. Most nests are hidden and this is the time that moms are laying eggs. priced at $29.95 each • BUY in bloom cool-growing cymbidium orchids native to the subtropical high- at www.sowtrue- seed.com and start Don’t forage for mushrooms unless you are an expert! Buy. lands of Southeast Asia. After the last flower dies, cut the spike to the base. Cym- Photos Cynthia Brian bidiums will re-bloom the following year when kept in cool temperatures with enjoying ready-to- bright light. fruit inoculated vari- • SOW a number of diverse species of nectar rich plants that will bloom at different eties of pearl oyster, times of the year to attract bees to orkw and pollinate. Suggestions include aster, lion’s mane, red reishi, and shitake. • WARD off cancer by planting and consuming parsley, artichokes, blue- berries, bok choy, broccoli, kale, lemons, strawber- Lic.: #611120 & Landscaping ries, red grapes, and Family owned in Moraga since 1987 tomatoes. Your friendly neighborhood • AERATE lawns and arborists Darren and Lew Edwards leave the plugs on A bright, colorful bloomer is the purple lilac vine (Hard- IT’S TIME TO PRUNE YOUR PINE TREES the grass to feed enbergia violaceae) which is great on fences. With current winter drought conditions home owners need to make sure to water their trees the soil. It’s best to do this when nights are still dewy as warmer climate de- too. Lack of water brings bugs and diseases. Proper pruning is also essential this time of hydrates the plugs. year for your Pine trees. Bark Beetles can infest your tree when it is weak from lack of • SPRINKLE laundry detergent on mushrooms to eliminate the fungi. water or due to sap that comes from pruning in the spring and summer; these beetles are • WANT instant no fuss made raised beds? Buy galvanized steel tubs meant as dormant during the fall and winter months. Beetles also can carry diseases from tree to tree, horse or cow troughs. Add rocks as drainage, good potting soil, plant. Voila! and the only way to stop them is to prevent them by having a healthy tree in the first place. You won’t have to worry about gopher invasions and these troughs will save So don’t wait until it’s too late have a complete inspection on water. by a Certified Arborist at Advance Tree Service • PICK up a pot of shamrocks, also known as oxalis, and get your Irish on. Oxalis Advance Tree Service blooms in yellow, pink, and white and can be invasive if let loose in the land- Your Authority on Trees and Landscape. scape. 925-376-6528 • PLANT sweet peas, flowering shrubs, dianthus, pansies, and leafy greens. [email protected] www.advancetree.com • RECYCLE bricks, rocks, and pavers to keep your landscaping budget in check. Follow us on Twitter (advancetree) and like us on Face Book (ADVANCETREESERVICEANDLANDSCAPINGINC.) Wed., Feb. 26, 2014 OUR HOMES Page: D11 >\kFlkJkXpFlk @ePfliE\nFlk[ffiIffd C\k>Xi[\eC`^_kjCXe[jZXg\;\m\cfgd\ek^`m\pfl^ff[i\XjfekfÈ>\kFlkXe[JkXpFlkÉk_`jjldd\i%

• MIX your coffee grinds and tea leaves in water to give acid loving plants a jolt of energy. Azaleas, rhododen drons, roses, fuchsias, camellias, and gardenias enjoy a sip of java. • HARVEST tangerines, lemons, and oranges that have not been frost bitten for an extra boost of vitamin C to fight off the flu. • CUT sprigs of purple lilac vine (Hardenbergia

violaceae) for indoor enjoyment. This vine is grows Xi[\eC`^_kjCXe[jZXg\;\m\cfgd\ek#@eZ%`jX]lccj\im`Z\cXe[jZXg\gffc[\j`^eYl`c[Ôid% SALVAGE household items that you don’t want any N\[\j`^e`ejkXccn`k_aljkfe\ZXcc0),$),+$+.0.›nnn%^Xi[\ec`^_kjcXe[jZXg\%Zfd more and repurpose them for the garden. Old doors can be made into screens, a metal chair can become a Celebrating over 20 years of service in Lamorinda. Bonded – Licensed & Insured License# 702845 C27 & C53 trellis for a vine, paint a dresser to use as a potting bench. Be creative. • DOWNLOAD garden apps. These recommended apps range in price from $0.99-$4.99 are available from the iTunes store: Armitage’s Greatest Perennials and Annuals; Foolproof Plants for Small Gardens; and Purdue Tree Doctor. • CHECK that all of your tools are sharpened, cleaned, 20% off and ready to get to work. all Outdoor • ADMIRE the bark on trees even as the leaves unfurl. • VISIT the Ruth Bancroft Gardens in Walnut Creek, Pottery a premier dry garden of water conserving specimens specializing in succulents, agaves, aloes, cactus, and a collection of plants from around the world that thrive family owned since 1933 with minimal irrigation. Tours, events, seminars, music, sculpture, and history are offered. www.ruthbancroftgarden.org.

Keep doing your per- sonal rain dance. Be green with garden envy by getting your land- scape ready for a beau- tiful rebirth. Happy Gardening. DESIGN e Rid Happy Growing. INSTALLATION lu g IRRIGATION B e ©2014 DRAINAGE STONEWORK Cynthia Brian CONCRETE WORK The Goddess Gardener DECKS 925-258-9233 [email protected] FENCES cell: 510-847-6160 www.goddessgardener.com PATIOS Landscape Company Inc. LAWNS 925-377-7827 PONDS Blue Jay Feldman LICENSED Cynthia is available as a speaker and consultant. CLEANUP & OWNER/OPERATOR INSURED HAULING www.blueridgelc.com Lic# 818633 Lamorinda’s Leading Independent Real Estate Firm

ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA

ASSOCIATES

New Listing New Price New Listing REAL ESTATE 120 Glorietta Blvd. Fabulous 119 Moraga Way Fabulous 8 La Campana Super clean & ready 48 Dolores Way Lovely ranch style traditional home lovingly maintained to location by downtown Orinda. one level living w/ 3bd/2ba, floor to 2073sf 4bd/2.5ba on .46ac features preserve charm of yesteryear. Vaulted Classic ranch w/sparkling high-end ceiling windows and lots of light. Easy updated gorgeous eat-in kit. w/granite, ss THE VILLAGE ceiling in gracious living rm, formal remodel incl. Great Rm, gourmet access outside. New Kitchen. Special appliances & island w/chopping block ASSOCIATES: dining, cozy breakfast nook, kitchen & baths, bamboo flrs, dual setting, great high-end street, set for top; LR & large FR; great bckyd w/stone Wedgewood stove. Priv. yd w/patio, pane wndws. 3bd/2ba. Large private occupancy. water feature & paver patio. Ashley Battersby lawn, terraced gardens. $819,000 lot w/ level area. $820,000 $865,000 $995,000 Patricia Battersby Joan Cleveland ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA Shannon Conner Joan Eggers Linda Ehrich Joan Evans Linda S. Friedman Marianne Greene New Listing New Listing Dexter Honens II 8 Williams Court Lovely single 214 The Knoll Stunning 9 Las Piedras Picturesque private 18 Mira Loma ‘Classic Orinda’ Anne Knight story Rancher featuring 4bd/2ba, 2094 sf Orindawoods townhome in prime 6bd/3ba home in park like setting Spanish home circa 1930 offering Susan Zeh Layng on .65 ac w/panoramic views; solar tranquil location. Beautifully renovated w/panoramic views, level lawn & pool. formal living, dining & family rooms, Art Lehman heated pool w/patio, pool house/media w/over $400,000 in custom upgrades! 3745sf classic custom w/vaulted ceilings, w/ approx. 2546 sf on two levels. Charles Levine room w/projector & surround sound; dual Fabulous gourmet kitchen, gorgeous walls of wndws, hdwd flrs, den, workout Located across the street from the Club’s panes; EMF blocking system. master, private atrium retreat. rm, FR & well-appointed kitchen. 18th fairway, pools and lower tennis April Matthews $999,000 $1,179,000 $1,349,000 courts. $1,450,000 Karen Murphy Ben Olsen ORINDA ORINDA MORAGA MORAGA Sue Olsen Tara Rochlin Jaime Roder Altie Schmitt Judy Schoenrock Ann Sharf New Listing New Listing Amy Rose Smith 1 Camino del Cielo 18 Charles Hill Road Extensively 712 Augusta Drive Charming 223 Corliss Drive Turn-key, Molly Smith Sophisticated and stylish 4900+ remodeled Spanish hm w/apx. 4000 sf, 2bd/2.5ba Creekside home in Moraga updated 4bd/2ba home opens to large Jeff Snell square foot newer construction with 4bd/3.5ba, on .67 ac. Chef’s kit, deluxe Country Club. Huge bonus room - private yard w/pool. Granite kitchen Lynda Snell four bedrooms plus office, three master, media rm, wine cellar. Indr/outdr perfect for home office, media room or and family room with wood floors Clark Thompson and one half baths, decks and living areas w/ patios, balconies & grassy playroom. Walk to golf, tennis, open to yard. Milgard windows/doors, views. lawns. Near shopping, commute & schls. clubhouse and swimming. Vacation plantation shutters throughout. Angie Evans Traxinger $1,599,000 $2,425,000 Living! $739,000 $1,185,000 Ignacio Vega Terri Bates Walker LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE Ann Ward Dan Weil Margaret Zucker

Pending Pending New Listing Coming Soon 206 Contessa Court Spacious 971 Pleasant Hill Road Light & airy 1036 Dolores Drive Private creek- 1 Springhill Lane Wonderfully re- 4bd/2ba charming home w/private contemporary home on private .50 ac Mt. side setting w/ level yard. Sought after built 2516 square foot, 4 bedroom, 3 yard located on quiet Burton Valley Diablo view lot. 4 spacious bd & 3.5 ba walk to town location. Newly remodeled bath one-story home on fabulous half cul-de-sac. Kitchen & baths incl. 2 master suites. Updated kitch. kitchen & master ba., vaulted ceils, hdwd acre. Open floor plan with huge facebook.com/VillageAssociates remodeled, vaulted ceilings, dual pane w/breakfast bar. Huge master suite flrs, formal dining plus family rm. Lovely kitchen/ family room. Walk to Acalanes windows. Beautifully landscaped yard w/private deck, home office area. single story on quiet cul-de-sac. High, Springhill Elementary. twitter.com/villageassoc with deck, patio. $949,000 $995,000 $1,195,000 $1,599,000

93 Moraga Way, Suite 103 • Orinda, CA 94563 • Phone: (925) 254-0505 Visit www.villageassociates.com Click on Sunday Open House