Wednesday, April 9, 2014 • Vol. 8 Issue 3 Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church

Presents Easter Worship Services Sunday, April 20 9am & 10:30am th, 2014

also join us for 26,000 copies Independent, locally owned and operated! Palm Sunday: delivered bi-weekly to Lamorinda homes Maundy ThursdayApril 13 & businesses th, 9 & 10:30am

: April 17th www.lamorindaweekly.com • 925.377.0977 FREE , 7pm 10 Moraga Valley Lane, Moraga, CA 925-376-4800 | www.mvpctoday.org

Volunteers helped customers pick out the perfect plants for their gardens April 5 at the Moraga Gardens Farm. Photo Andy Scheck Time for Planting lant sales like this one at the Moraga Gardens Farm grow in different light and various temperatures is one of between lush and lackluster. To learn more about our com- last weekend have been popping up throughout the keys to a successful garden, understanding microcli- munities’ microclimates and to get other planting tips, read PLamorinda as residents prep gardens and yards for mates within the three Lamorinda communities – and even “How to Plant in Lamorinda’s Microclimates” in the Our spring planting. While understanding how plants and trees within each individual plot of land – can be the difference Homes section on page C1.

Advertising Quote of the Week:

"These opponents Selling Lamorinda!

would be right; it does seem overwhelming. But I see it a little Christine Curran differently." Read Lauren Woolsey Letters to the Editor - 925.285.5336 223 Corliss Drive, Moraga 73 Sullivan Drive, Moraga page A10. Lic# 01896147/01940797 www.atHomeinLamorinda.com Represented Buyers Represented Buyers

Local Governments Stop PG&E Tree Town News A2 - A14 Business A10 Life in Lamorinda B1 - B14 Cutting Project – For Now Classified B8 Food B9 By Sophie Braccini Service Directory B9 acific Gas and Electric Company officials an- In his address to the City Council on March 24, gested it “might be easier to move the pipelines Not to be Missed B12-B13 nounced March 27 that they are putting a hold Lafayette’s city manager, Steven Falk, explained than move the trees.” Lafayette was one of eight HOW TO CONTACT US B13 P on tree removal related to the utility’s Pipeline Path- that the purpose of PG&E’s project was to create a cities to sign a letter to PG&E requesting a dia- Love Lafayette B14 ways safety program in East Bay communities, ex- clear pathway above all of its gas transmission logue, and the City Council voted to enter into a Sports E1 - E4 cept on private properties by agreement with pipelines, allowing PG&E to better maintain, in- fee-sharing agreement with other municipalities to Our Homes C1 -C16 property owners. The statement was made in the spect, and safely operate the system. All trees hire a law firm to challenge PG&E. This Week Read About: aftermath of an organized revolt by affected cities within 10 feet on either side of the center line of a “Tree and vegetation roots can damage an un- Dog Park Potential A2 against the agency’s campaign to clear a pathway gas transmission pipe would be cut down, and all derground pipeline by impacting the pipeline's pro- Council Members Appeal Plan A4 above its gas lines that would include the cutting trees with canopies that extend into the 20-foot tective coating system, exposing it to corrosion,” Service Above Self A6 down of thousands of trees. pathway margin would either be removed or stated Jesus Soto, senior vice president of PG&E's Station 46 Revisited A9 The quick reaction of the jurisdictions that trimmed. PG&E claimed the right to remove trees gas operations. The Pipeline Pathways project Doctor for a Cause B2 formed a coalition to stop the tree removal was very in the public right of way without the need for local would remove thousands of trees on private and SMC's WWI Exhibit B5 effective in changing the agency’s attitude from one permits and authorization. public properties, including some very well estab- Dogtown Downtown B6 of “we can do what we want” to “let’s partner and Lafayette City Council members reacted lished ones in downtown areas and scenic corridors. Egg Hunts and More B10 find a solution together.” Lamorinda cities partici- strongly to the tree removal plan. Mayor Mike An- “In Moraga the gas transmission line PG&E Specialties of the House B11 pated in a general meeting March 21 to share in- derson noted that some of the trees are well over has identified runs down St. Mary’s Road from the Softball, LAX Update E2 formation; Lafayette and Moraga didn’t hesitate to 200 years old, predating the pipelines, and ex- Lafayette border for 1.32 miles, approximately to DFAL Honors E4 make forceful statements opposing tree removal claimed, “This is the most ham-fisted effort I’ve the Mulberry Tree Preschool parking lot,” said Jill without a permit. ever heard!” Councilmember Mark Mitchell sug- Keimach, town manager. ... continued on page A14

Life in Lamorinda B1-B14 Our Homes C1-C16 Camps D1-D6 Sports E1-E4 Grace and Passion Dealing with Summer New Coach at Camp Local Drought SMC marathoners Part two of Cynthia Guide Valenzuela return to Brian's series on So much to do, so sets a new Boston - gardening during a little time! Half-day course for page B1. drought - page camps let your kids Gaels' baseball try something new - C13. page D1. - page E1. Page: A2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014

STILL #1 FOR A REASON 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 Lafayette’s Best Setting the Stage for Success!

Proud to offer complimentary Civic News professional staging on every listing… Let our 2 full-time stagers and Public Meetings 2 warehouses chalked full of inventory increase your sales price!!! City Council Dana Green License #: 01482454 Monday, April 14, 7 p.m. Monday, April 28, 7 p.m. DanaGreenTeam.com | 925.339.1918 Lafayette Library & Learning Center, Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Planning Commission Spacious Dog Park Proposed on Deer Hill Monday, April 21, 7 p.m. Lafayette Library & Learning Center, By Cathy Tyson Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. prised the PTR Commission and staff Design Review were when the ‘Deerhill Park Devel- Monday, April 14, 7 p.m. opment’ (also known as the Terraces) included a dog park as one of the pro- Monday, April 28, 7 p.m. posed park amenities,” said Jennifer Lafayette Library & Learning Center, Russell, parks, trails and recreation di- Arts & Science Discovery Center, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. rector. “Unfortunately, the overall park space wasn’t large enough to ac- Check online for agendas, meeting commodate all of the new features notes and announcements which led to the developer proposing City of Lafayette: an area north of the proposed home www.ci.lafayette.ca.us sites. This area would include a ded- Phone: (925) 284-1968 icated parking lot for dog owners and Chamber of Commerce: a 1.5 acre area for the dogs to romp www.lafayettechamber.org and play. The site also has stupendous views of Mount Diablo and the sur- School Board Meetings rounding hills as well as a potential Acalanes Union High School District picnic site under a huge bay tree.” Wednesday, April 16, 7:30 p.m. View of the abandoned red house on Deer Hill Road where the Alternative Plan dog park could be located – if the “The problem is that the new lo- AUHSD Board Room at 1212 revised Terraces project is approved. Photo Cathy Tyson cation, much larger size as well as Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette lthough “Alternative Plan” doc- said project manager Dave Baker. that year that spelled out the parame- having its own parking lot, made the www.acalanes.k12.ca.us uments of the redesigned Ter- The developer of the proposed ters of an appropriate dog park. For- park much more expensive than the A original $100,000 allowance for the Lafayette School District races of Lafayette housing project are project, O’Brien Land Company, has mer Mayor Ivor Samson and his wife still being reviewed by the city, there negotiated with the owner of the po- Sharon formed the Lafayette Dog dog park. Consequently, we are offer- Wednesday, April 9, 7 p.m. has been some discussion about the tential dog park parcel, the Anna Owners Group, or LDOG, during this ing just the bare bones,” said Baker. “I Regular Board Meeting size and location of the proposed dog Maria Dettmer Trust, which is also process, officially organizing as a believe we are very fortunate that Stanley Library park that was part of the amenity the owner of the Terraces parcel; for non-profit in 2007, and started an there were so many parties willing to 3477 School St., Lafayette package for this new plan. Back in an option on the 4-acre property. email list of dog park supporters. “At work toward a solution. Especially www.lafsd.k12.ca.us January, the City Council approved a Drivers on Deer Hill Road can easily that time there were over 3,000 dogs when you consider that various groups have been trying for over 10 years to Share your thoughts, insights Process Agreement that provides for spot the alternate location of the pro- licensed in Lafayette,” said Sharon get a dog park in Lafayette.” and opinions with your an expedited review process of the posed dog park by the abandoned red Samson. She explained that because smaller version of the “Terraces” house on the site, just below the crest the Terraces development is still in the If the alternate dog park is ap- ommunity. which calls for 45 homes clustered to- of the hill. Neighbors on either side planning process, “it would be prema- proved, the Parks, Trails and Recre- Send a letter to the editor: gether, compared to the original 315- were amenable as long as certain con- ture for LDOG to begin fundraising ation department has pledged to work [email protected] unit plan, on the 22-acre parcel. ditions were met. until the project has moved further with local dog owners to raise funds The unique alternative plan in- The Parks, Trails and Recreation along in the regulatory process.” for dog park amenities to create a cluded a soccer field, tot lot, parking Commission has been researching the During the many year search, “It unique destination for our local dogs area and bicycle pathway, as well as need and feasibility of creating a dog seemed like finding a suitable site was and their owners, said Russell. The a dog park. It was determined with park in Lafayette since January of going to be very difficult, if not im- Lafayette Dog Owners Group can be input from Parks, Trails and Recre- 2001. Guidelines were determined possible, so you can imagine how sur- reached at [email protected]. ation and dog park representatives that the available space for the pro- posed dog park was too small, due to constraints from proposed homes and Thank you for recycling the popular sports field. Lafayette’s this paper. It is printed Several off-site locations were ex- on at least 50% recycled plored and all but one was dismissed. material and vegetable “There is a beautiful piece of property across the street from the project. It DOGTOWN based ink and should be recycled again. has large trees and a gently sloping area that dogs could easily play on,”

Lafayette Police Department DOWNTOWN Incident Summary Report, March 16-29 SATURDAY, DOG PARADE ¤å?”Ë®Mj~‰™ÄËKË?w?ßjÍÍjË+?ã?¯Ë Alarms 25 Panhandling APRIL 12 911 calls 17 Trader Joe’s ACTIVITIES Promiscuous Shooting 10AM -1PM VË8ÁÄ†¬Ä Auto Burglary VËjWÍÖÁjÄ 3200 Mt Diablo Bl 3900 block Woodside Ct Lafayette Library VË j”™ÄÍÁ?͉™Ä Safeway Public Nuisance ?™aËj?Á™‰™~Ë j™ÍjÁË VË ~Ëa¬Í‰™ÄË Pleasant Hill Rd/Springhill Rd 600 block Huntleigh FË?w?ßjÍÍjË+?ã? CONTESTS Residential Burglary Rohrer Dr/St Mary’s Rd ™ÍjÁËߝÖÁËa~ˉ™Ë?™ßÊ?ËW™ÍjÄÍÄËrË -ËÁj~‰ÄÍÁ?͉™ËÄÍ?ÁÍÄËK˚?”ËKË͆jË 1100 block Laurel Dr 3500 block Mt Diablo Bl ?w?ßjÍÍjˉMÁ?ÁßË?™aËj?Á™‰™~Ë j™ÍjÁ 10 block Old Millstone Ln Reckless Driving VË jÄÍË0j?”Ë0Á‰WÄ 1600 block Rancho del Hambre Moraga Rd/Hamlin VË jÄÍË ÄÍ֔j V˝ÄË ÄÍˉjË#ݙjÁ Commercial Burglary Crofton Ct/Lancaster Dr VË8?~~‰jÄÍË0?‰ 900 block Moraga Rd (2) Moraga Rd/School St VË jÄÍ˝wË.†Ý Disturbing the Peace Hwy 24/Pleasant Hill Rd MORE INFO 900 block Almanor Ln St Mary’s Rd/Driftwood Dr ÝÝݱ ±Á~Êa~ÍÝ™Ê Diablo Foods Speeding DUI misdemeanor 4200 block El Nido Ranch Rd Olympic Oaks Dr/Olympic Bl Suspicious Circum. 19 Mt Diablo Bl/Willow Suspicious Vehicle 13 Grand Theft Suspicious Subject 12 2nd St/Mt Diablo Bl Trespass 400 block St Mary’s Rd 2900 block Rohrer Dr 3400 block McEllen Under the Influence Health & Safety Mt Diablo Bl/Moraga Rd Hwy 24 Vandalism Hit & Run Brook St/Moraga Rd St Mary’s Rd 10 block Gilmore Ct 3700 block Mt Diablo Bl Lafayette Library (2) Mentally Ill Commit 100 block Peaceful Ln Moraga Bl Vehicle Theft Sunset Lp Mt Diablo/Oak Hill Miller Dr Warrant

S. Lucille Deerhill/N Thompson PRESENTED BY ?w?ßjÍÍjˉMÁ?ÁßËFËj?Á™‰™~Ë j™ÍjÁËVË?w?ßjÍÍjË †?”MjÁ˝wË ””jÁWjËVË ‰Íß˝wË?w?ßjÍÍjËVË2± ±Ë ?܉ÄË.W†ËwË7jÍjÁ‰™?ÁßË?܉ĉ Ë .W†.W††Ë wË ja‰W‰™j

Misdemeanor Hwy 24/Acalanes Minuteman Press CVS Pharmacy Lafayette Chase Bank lot ?w?ßjÍÍjË™‰”?ËÄ¬‰Í?ËVË0†jË+jÍË-?™W†Ë?ÍË8?‰ÍjÁWËVË.†?ÁjË͆j˝ßË+†Í~Á?¬†ßËVË”ßË ÁßjÁË jĉ~™ Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A3 Free Women and Wealth Workshop Conversation-Coffee-Treats 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 Every second Saturday of the month Next workshop April 12, 12p-1p. Location: Lafayette Veterans Memorial Building

Please RSVP: Dominique Millette email [email protected] or call 925-837-0955 www.wisewomenwealth.com

Possible Innovative Approach to Parking in Lafayette By Cathy Tyson

JUST LISTED! COMING SOON 5/3! 1180 Cedarwood Drive, Moraga 5BR/3.5BA, 2900± sq. ft. on .27±AC

Photo Streetline Smart Parking Proposal

s any resident knows, parking to 14 minutes to find a place to park SOLD! LOT SOLD! Aand traffic congestion are key and 92 percent of violators parked at issues in downtown Lafayette. City expired meters never get caught. leaders are well aware of the on-going A hockey puck-like device is im- problem, plus the added dilemma of planted in the street asphalt in public motorists attempting to park at BART, parking spaces. Streetline owns, in- who end up finding spots in neighbor- stalls and maintains the pucks and of- hoods and shopping centers, con- fers the service to the city like a utility tributing to the parking crunch. along with mobile payment technol- That’s why a meeting was called ogy, if available. Parking information to look at a potential solution. “We is available around the clock. One are looking at comprehensive parking possible upside, depending on your strategies,” said Niroop Srivatsa, point of view, is a huge increase in of- planning and building director. The ficer “productivity” – the technology city leaders, merchants and interested shows meter enforcement profession- citizens who attended the Parking Or- als quickly and easily on an iPad dinance Committee’s meeting in late where parkers have overstayed their March learned about this innovative, allotted time. technology-based parking guidance This reinvented parking technol- system. ogy has been amazingly successful, Cleverly named “Parker,” by Fos- and is already used in 45 cities large ter City-based startup Streetline, di- and small across the country, includ- rects drivers to the closest available ing New York, Boston, Los Angeles, spots in real time via voice guidance 10,000-resident Capitola, and San through smart phones, explained Ken Mateo, and is expanding to Europe. Voss, senior vice president, and has a To date the system has facilitated over host of other savvy features – like 230,000,000 parking events. Every searchable parking near a destination, city that has signed up with Streetline the ability to pay for parking via the has renewed the service, said Voss. phone and even an alert when time is Calling existing systems, such as about to expire. The system uses chalking tires, “very inefficient,” Voss sensing equipment, software and in- opined that ultimately individual Pending with Multiple Offers formation services to provide optimal parking meters will be obsolete. “You 39 Greentree Court, Lafayette parking solutions for drivers. The don’t need a cash register at each idea is to change driver behavior to space.” Highly sought after Silver Dell neighborhood stunning 4BD/3BA home. With 2,833+/-sq. ft., this better utilize parking inventory and People who listened to the pres- beautiful home enjoys a remodeled eat-in kitchen that opens to a great room, a formal dining room enhance the productivity of enforce- entation were concerned that many of and a beautiful living room with vaulted ceiling and views of the hills and beyond. ment. Marketing materials for the the older residents who park in www.39GreentreeCourt.com Offered at $1,495,000 Streetline proposal note that cities Lafayette may not have smart phones. using Streetline “enjoy reduced con- Voss recommended dynamically up- gestion, better space utilization and dateable signage that gives directions increased commerce for merchants” to available spots. that translates into increased sales tax Cost is always a factor; there are revenue for the city. one-time activation fees per space and The app works for iPhones as a monthly fee for service. A pilot pro- well as Android devices. Along with gram is possible to evaluate the sys- Parker, Streetline also offers other tem. For Lafayette, it’s estimated that services like ParkerMap, ParkSight approximately 70 percent of the initial Analytics and more. investment can be returned in the first Preliminary talks are underway year and the entire investment can be between Streetline and BART; Sri- returned in about 17 months, paid for vatsa pointed out that the transit through increased enforcement. agency has shown a willingness to lis- At this point, it’s unclear if the ten. city will pursue Streetline, but their There was some concern that, if presentation and proposal – available Sold ~ Represented Buyers adopted, the system would drive cus- on the city website, was food for 17 Thune Avenue, Moraga tomers away from local businesses. thought. For more information, go to “Just the opposite,” said Voss, ex- Streetline.com or view their entire Fabulous upgrades throughout this beautiful 4BD/2BA home with an open floor plan plaining that by making parking eas- proposal at www.lovelafayette.com – and 2167+/- sq. ft. of living space. ier, commerce increases. go to public meetings, then click on A dream kitchen with granite counter tops, Voss shared a number of interest- the March 25 Parking Ordinance luxurious master bedroom retreat with a ing factoids: studies have shown in Committee. fabulous master bathroom, all situated on a the average American city it takes 6 .22+/- acre flat lot in a wonderful neighborhood. Listed at: $995,000

More Lafayette Civic News Lisa Brydon 925.285.8336 | Kristi Ives 925.788.8345 www.BrydonIvesTeam.com on Page A14 CalBRE#: 01408025 CalBRE#: 01367466 [email protected] Page: A4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014

The Bernie & Ryerson Team Local Knowledge of Lamorinda & Extraordinary Results

Success comes only with the right marketing plan & execution strategy.

If you are considering selling your home, give us a call for assistance. Civic News If you need referrals for home services providers, we can share our “black Public Meetings book” of local reliable contractors, handymen, plumbers, electricians, etc. Town Council Wednesday, April 9, 7 p.m. 925.200.2222 Gary • 925.878.9685 Ken Wednesday, April 23, 7 p.m. [email protected] • [email protected] Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School, License #: 00686144 | 01418309 1010 Camino Pablo Planning Commission Monday, April 21, 7 p.m. Moraga Library, 1500 St. Mary’s Rd. Council Members Appeal Planning Decision Design Review Revisiting emergency access to Sanders Ranch Monday, April 14, 7 p.m. By Sophie Braccini Moraga Library, 1500 St. Mary’s Rd. oraga Town Council mem- the Old Moraga Ranch Trail, the my perspective, the compromise so- emergency response vehicles being Check online for agendas, meeting Mbers Michael Metcalf and commission decided that an easement lution was much less effective than an able to access Sanders Ranch directly notes and announcements Dave Trotter appealed a March 3 should be maintained in case the Mor- EVA,” he said. from Sanders Drive, but my concern Town of Moraga: Planning Commission decision to ap- aga-Orinda Fire District ever required According to Stan Ross, a is if the thing would actually work,” www.moraga.ca.us prove the Hetfield Estates General an EVA. Sanders Ranch Homeowners Associ- he said. Phone: (925) 888-7022 Chamber of Commerce: Development Plan and Conditional “When Sanders Ranch was built ation board member, when Wyro con- Trotter suggested that the issues Use Permit. They acted separately, in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, the tacted them about the project there of funding and the actual construction www.moragachamber.org Moraga Citizens’ Network: but for similar reasons – both want the Moraga Fire Protection District deter- was as much interest in the EVA as of the EVA could be discussed sepa- www.moragacitizensnetwork.org question of an Emergency Vehicle mined that the response time to the there were questions. “How will the rately. “Even if the construction of Access to the Sanders Ranch devel- new development would be unaccept- roadway impact neighborhood secu- the EVA is delayed until a complete School Board Meeting opment, which the Planning Com- able and imposed as one of the con- rity and prevent unauthorized access EVA linkage to Sanders Ranch Road Moraga School District mission replaced with a simple ditions of approval the construction of into the development? How will the is achieved, the Town can still require Tuesday, May 13, 7:30 p.m. walking path, to be studied de novo an EVA connecting the development roadway be constructed? What the developer to fund the estimated Joaquin Moraga Intermediate and for residents to be given the op- to Sanders Drive,” recalled Dick would be the cost of the maintenance? costs of the construction now,” he School Auditorium portunity to express their views on Olsen, who served on the fire dis- Those were some of our questions,” wrote in his appeal. 1010 Camino Pablo, Moraga this safety issue. trict’s board at the time. As construc- said Roth, “and we never got answers “I appealed this decision (sup- www.moraga.k12.ca.us Metcalf would also like to see the tion continued, Olsen noticed that no from the developer.” pression of the EVA), because I want See also AUHSD meeting page A2 number of parking spots reviewed. EVA was being built. He remembers Roth himself is passionate about to give the people in Sanders Ranch The Town Council is tentatively being told that the property owner of emergency response time. He was an opportunity to have a say,” said scheduled to discuss the appeal at its the land the EVA would go through one of the leaders of the effort to re- Metcalf, who also appealed the Plan- April 23 meeting. would not give a free right of way. move the speed tables on Camino ning Commission’s decision to sup- please... Developer John Wyro initially “The compromise was then to have Pablo a few years ago on the grounds press three on-street parking spaces. proposed an Emergency Vehicle Ac- every home equipped with inside fire that the traffic calming features would “It is not a good idea to displace the cess in his plan for the Hetfield Es- sprinklers and to post guards 24/7 at increase response time. “I am inter- parking from a neighborhood to an- tates, as a public benefit, but the the entrance of the property who ested in the concept of an emergency other street,” he said. “I'd like to give Planning Commission removed it would be trained in emergency med- second exit from the development, the opportunity to find out more about ...thanks! when it appeared to commissioners ical response,” added Olsen. “From and I'm interested in the concept of this.” that its construction might be chal- lenging and that the Sanders Ranch Homeowners Association was not in- terested in an EVA. Opting instead for Campolindo Neighbors Stop Cell Tower a trail connecting Hetfield Estates to By Sophie Braccini hey didn’t have to put up too wires from the PG&E installation it Wright also introduced Lafayette Tmuch of a fight; in fact, when did not appear, at first, to be a big resident Ellen Marks, of the Califor- Chris Learned, associate principal issue,” said Learned, who prepared nia Brain Tumor Association, who Moraga Police of the Acalanes Union High School the material that secured the board’s has done research on the potential Department District, heard the neighbors’ vehe- approval. health risks associated with cell tow- ment opposition to the school dis- But neighbors disagreed. “My ers and was part of the team that trict’s plan to allow AT&T to install husband and I are very concerned fought such installations in Lafayette. a new cell tower on district property and upset about the proposal to put “It is an enormous problem and yes, Ransacked home, 3/30/14 Res- D.U.I. 3/28/14 Just shy of 1 in the Campolindo neighborhood, an AT&T cell phone tower near our increased use is creating a need for idents of a Calle La Mesa home a.m. cops pulled over a Honda he withheld his signature from the home on Calle La Mesa in Mor- more towers,” said Marks. “I do not were out of town for a week; Pilot on Woodford Drive, after agreement with the service provider. aga,” said resident Deidre Murphy. advocate against this technology but upon their return, they found observing the car brake unnec- Drivers on Moraga Road may con- At a Moraga Planning Commission I do strive to educate people to re- their house had been com- essarily multiple times and tinue to lose their signals, and the meeting March 17, resident Roy duce their use.” pletely ransacked and reported drive on the wrong side of the district will not pocket an additional Wright spoke during the public Learned also received emails jewelry, electronics and a vehi- road. The officer could smell $5,000 per year – the price of valued comment period to share data he from concerned residents. cle stolen. A horrible welcome alcohol on the driver and what peace with the neighbors. had gathered. “As of 2012, sellers “The data about the negative ef- home from spring break. appeared to be vomit on the The story started a few weeks are required to disclose cell tower fects of living near cell towers is still driver and the inside of the car ago when the AUHSD governing locations to buyers even if the cell controversial,” acknowledged Loud party, 3/30/14 A recurrent - a subtle red flag. She flunked board approved easement modifica- tower is not visible,” he explained, Learned, “but if there is a risk, we theme in the police blotter, yes the breathalyzer test and was ar- tions that would permit a wireless “This adverse impact on real estate do not want to impose it on people – it’s true, college-age kids rested for DUI, later she was re- facility to co-locate on an existing marketability directly contributes to living near our property.” Cam- drinking, loud music and leased to her husband on her PG&E transmission tower set on a home devaluation. Real estate polindo residents who attended the yelling on Ascot Drive. Offi- signed Promise to Appear. district-owned, undeveloped lot be- groups estimate new cell towers district’s board meeting on March cers contacted the resident of tween Calle La Mesa, Campolindo similar to the one proposed devalue 19 were delighted to hear that the the apartment and saw approxi- Commercial Burglary, Drive and Moraga Road. “Since surrounding properties by 20 to 30 cell tower agreement would not be mately 40 people inside with al- 3/27/2014 A suspect was seen there were already high tension percent.” signed. cohol present. “The partygoers on video surveillance loading were dispersed without incident merchandise by the emergency and the resident was issued a exit of a major retailer on Municipal Code Warning No- Canyon Road. Then the sus- tice,” said the no-nonsense po- pect left the store and re-entered lice report. in different clothing, eventually leaving with $1,440 worth of Car accident, 3/29/14 A stuff and fleeing in a waiting teenaged driver of a VW Passat minivan. Lafayette police was chatting on her cell phone stopped the van in their juris- and didn’t notice a car in front diction, and arrested the suspect of her had stopped at a posted for commercial burglary and stop sign on Camino Pablo, so probation violation. All of the she rear-ended him causing stolen items were returned. Community Workshop: Moraga Hillside minor damage to his Nissan Pathfinder, but major damage to In addition, the following the VW, which was towed from crimes were reported between and Ridgeline Regulations Project the scene. Minor head bump on March 25 and April 1: the steering wheel of the young Wednesday, April 16, 2014, 7:00 to 9:00 PM lady, but she was examined by Suspicious Circumstances – MOFD and released. Looks Moraga Rd, Camino Ricardo Hagarty Lounge at De La Salle Hall, Saint Mary’s College like someone will be losing her False Alarm – Joseph Dr, 1928 St Mary’s Road, Moraga phone privileges. Rimer Dr, Park St, Claudia Ct, Via Granada, Coutes Ct, Del Another loud party, 3/28/14 Rio Wy, Moraga Wy At this workshop you will: This time on Buckingham Lost Property – Corliss Dr, • Learn about the project Drive, about 50 college-age Rheem Bl, St. Mary’s Rd • Share your thoughts and concerns subjects with alcoholic bever- Traffic Incident – Ascot at ages. Cops came and encour- Moraga Rd • Hear the opinions of others aged the party people to go Danger to Self – Hodges Dr • Ensure the project addresses issues you care about home. Resident received a Petty Theft – St. Mary’s Rd Warning Notice. Domestic Dispute – Hetfield Pl Vandalism – Moraga Wy Learn more at: http://www.moraga.ca.us/hillsides or contact Loud Party – Donald Dr Ellen Clark, Senior Planner, at 925-888-7041 [email protected] Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A5 Selling or Downsizing? MORAGA TRIATHLON Experience at Your Service! SATURDAY, APRIL 26 Realtor/Broker Skillfully Connecting Buyers and Sellers VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Certified Residential Specialist With Compelling Properties 925-254-7600 office 925-788-0229 cell MORAGA PARKS & RECREATION [email protected] 925-888-7045 • www.moraga.ca.us Search MLS at 43 Moraga Way www.AlexGailas.com Orinda

Alioto Recreation Center Takes Shape By Sophie Braccini have a commitment to health and wellness, and this facility will support those needs.” Join us The center will include three full-size courts for recreational for a free and indoor intramural sports, in- presentation cluding basketball, soccer and volleyball; a climbing wall; an provided by aquatic center that will offer lap swimming, lessons, a swim club and a whirlpool spa; as well as a large patio and lawn areas with space for relaxation, socializing, Memory Loss, Dementia and study and outdoor events. “Stu- Photo Andy Scheck dents will come to exercise, take Alzheimer’s Disease: The Basics eople driving along St. dedicated to fitness, fun and re- yoga or Pilates classes, or partic- • Differences between dementia and Alzheimer’s PMary’s Road or on the Saint laxation for Saint Mary’s students ipate in a pickup basketball disease and Latest Research Mary’s College campus may find starting in the spring of 2015. game,” adds Orr. “There is a lot • Warning Signs, Diagnosis and Risk Reduction it hard to miss the large structure “Most colleges have such fa- of excitement building up as the • Principles of “person-centered” care outlined by its steel frame on the cilities and students look for it,” center takes shape.” • Steps to successful care giving northwest corner of the campus. says Mark Orr, director of athlet- The lack of seasonal rain al- It is the Alioto Recreation Center ics and recreational sports. “Our lowed construction to progress Thursday, April 10, 2014 – 8,000 square feet that will be young people are very active and rapidly during the winter. Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Community Workshop Free Parking and Complimentary Refreshments Please RSVP to: Nancy L. Robinson Residents asked for their input on hillside and ridgeline development in Moraga [email protected] 925-297-6760 Should Moraga’s hillsides and ridgelines be untouched? Do landowners have the right to develop their prop- erty? Local regulations for hillside and ridgeline development have been interpreted differently over the years and continue to be a bone of contention between interested parties. To settle the matter, the Moraga Town Council authorized a comprehensive review of existing policies and regulations, and consideration of updates to provide better and more consistent interpretation of the rules. Now is your chance to weigh in on the question Assisted Living & Memory Care of how hillside and ridgeline development should be regulated. The community is invited to attend a workshop 950 Country Club Drive, Moraga, CA 94556 RCFE #075601424 from 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16 at Saint Mary’s College, Hagarty Lounge in De La Salle Hall. Residents will learn about the project, share their thoughts, hear the ideas and opinions of other Moraga residents, and help ensure that the town’s policies and regulations address the issues residents care about. For more informa- tion go to www.moraga.ca.us/hillsides or contact Ellen Cark, senior planner, (925) 888-7041 or [email protected].

120 Promintory Lane Lafayette Timeless & meticulously crafted farmhouse style home completed in 2011. 6303+/-sf, 3-car garage/carriage house with guest quarters, 3200+/-sf workshop/barn situated on a spectacular 12+/- acre parcel. Top-rated Lafayette schools. $5,950,000 Bill Finnegan & Lori Legler Page: A6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 Summit Ridge Townhome ~ Near Lafayette Schools

Summit Ridge Townhome with approximately 2500+ Coming Soon! square feet, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, large light and sunny bonus room, large fenced landscaped patio, fresh paint, new flooring, kitchen counters, and appliances. Community has pool and clubhouse. The home is near open space and Civic News trails, Springhill Elementary, Acalanes HS, Lafayette BART Public Meetings Maureen and Highway 24. This is a fabulous property! City Council Wilbur For more Information please contact Maureen Tuesday, April 22, 7 p.m. Auditorium, Orinda Library, 26 Orinda Way Direct: (925)253-6311 [email protected] www.MaureenWilbur.com CalBRE #01268536 ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Planning Commission Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 Tuesday, April 22, 7 p.m. Founder’s Auditorium, Cummunity Center 28 Orinda Way Service Above Self Finance Advisory Orinda mayor proclaims 2014 “A Year of Teamwork and Collaboration” Committee By Laurie Snyder Wednesday, April 23, 6 p.m. Sarge Littlehale Community Room, Asked by an audience member funding from Measure L, a half- 22 Orinda Way how long it will take to repair cent sales tax hike passed by vot- Check online for agendas, meeting everything, Severson replied, ers in 2012, she cited June’s “My dream is that we can get Measure J ballot initiative as an- notes and announcements City of Orinda: them done in the near term.” other opportunity to generate ad- Adding that progress is starting to ditional needed funding. www.cityoforinda.org be made thanks to the increased ... continued on page A13 Phone (925) 253-4200 Chamber of Commerce: www.orindachamber.org Hilton House Named Orinda The Orinda Association: www.orindaassociation.org Chamber of Commerce Small School Board Meeting Business of the Year Orinda Union School District Monday, April 14, 6 p.m. OUSD Office, Vintage Building 25 Orinda Way, Suite 200 www.orindaschools.org See also AUHSD meeting page A2

“Orinda is volunteer wealthy, but revenue poor,” said Mayor Sue Severson recently. The city is allowed to keep just roughly 7 cents for each dollar of Orinda Police property tax paid. Photos Andy Scheck Department ervice above Self” – the flying in formation, calling to Incident Summary “Smotto of Rotarians world- mind the values of kindness and Report, March 16-29 wide, that simple phrase was the cooperation and generating sus- undercurrent running beneath tained applause by many in atten- Alarm 41 Orinda’s 2014 State of the City dance. “People who share a sense 911 calls 5 Address in late March. Delivered of community can help each Contra County Supervisor Candace Andersen (right) lauded Cyndi Auto Burglary Hilton, owner of the 2013 Orinda Chamber of Commerce Small by Mayor Sue Severson before an other,” read one slide. “In groups Business of the Year on March 26. Theatre Square audience of business leaders and where there is encouragement Wilder Bl/Hwy 24 (3) Orinda residents at an Orinda Ro- production is much greater,” read “A lot of people like the idea of recycling upscale, name brand Armed Robbery tary-Orinda Chamber of Com- another. items,” said Cyndi Hilton upon accepting the Orinda Chamber of Shell Station merce sponsored luncheon – and Severson also talked turkey – Commerce 2013 Small Business of the Year Award on behalf of DUI Misdemeanor again the following evening in the about city finances, crime and the Hilton House Consign & Design prior to Orinda mayor Sue Sever- Glorietta Bl/Orchard Rd library auditorium before another challenges to come. “We continue son’s State of the City Address March 26. Presented by chamber Hwy 24/Oak Hill Rd community crowd, the speech by to keep an extremely tight rein on president Sylvia Jorgensen, the business was recognized for quickly Hit & Run the former two-term Orinda expenditures,” she said. “Our city filling a niche after its 2000 opening as avid remodelers and down- Camino Pablo/Monte Vista Union School District board pres- budget is lean” – less than $11.5 sizing homeowners freed their homes of items that were, in turn, Grand Theft ident offered a mini-tutorial on million in 2014. snapped up by new Lamorindans, collectors and designers from the 20 block Orinda Wy city operations, and illuminated “Police and public safety is Bay Area and beyond. She soon began selling everything from ar- Missing Adult the importance of civic engage- our largest expenditure, taking moires to china, expanding the store just five years later to include 10 block Glorietta Ct ment and teamwork. about one third of our budget,” fine jewelry – now her top selling specialty area. Public Nuisance Of note, this year’s address in- she said when recalling Orinda’s Hilton was also honored with a proclamation, personally pre- 200 block Orchard Rd cluded an uplifting video of geese “mini-crime wave” in 2013. sented by Contra Costa County Supervisor Candace Andersen, and Petty Theft “While our capable police force was applauded warmly by the crowd of Rotarians, business leaders 10 block Warford Tr handled the situation,” she and fellow Orindans in attendance. A former Internet business 20 block Bates Bl (3) stressed, it takes more to keep a owner and 37-year resident of Orinda, Hilton launched the business Reckless Driving town safe. “Citizens are an im- when she couldn’t find a place to recycle Waterford crystal pieces Hwy 24/Camino Pablo (2) portant part of our public safety she no longer used, but didn’t want to see go to waste. Open from Hwy 24/Wilder team.” Orindans, she reminded Monday to Saturday at 21 Orinda Way, the store has become a fa- L.Snyder Suspicious Person 16 the crowd, now have another tool vorite of collectors, as well as hunters of unique gifts. Suspicious Circum. 14 to help make life better – an email Suspicious Vehicle 21 tip line for reporting crimes and Trespass Glorietta other concerns about suspicious Bl/Meadow Ln behavior: orindatip@city- Warrant Action oforinda.org. Theater View 70 block Rheem Bl “In evaluating where we are 500 block Moraga Wy today, it’s clear that many of the 10 block Ardor Dr Miramonte sophomore and Lamorinda challenges of the past are still Southwood Dr/Davis Rd Veterinary Clinic Idol participant, Eleanor Roeder, sang with us,” she continued. Groans Hwy 24/Orinda off ramp “We’re All in This Together” before an from the crowd issued forth at her appreciative State of the City Address slides showing the most perilous Theater View audience March 26. of Orinda’s current potholes. Veterinary Clinic is a brand new facility owned by '( %)) *%+&,+ +-.$/ “Dr. Laurie” Langford who has Let us help your loved ones retain their pride, been caring for dignity & independence with our full-service animals in Orinda home care. for 15 years. 3      3     3        3      3    0/$*1233 “Dr. Laurie” Langford $1000 off Call (925) 317-3080      Phone: (925) 317-3187 now to book your ! " # Fax: (925) 334-7017 FREE initial assessment YOUR 24/7 HOME CARE SPECIALIST #$     % &'()&(*' Email: [email protected] www.theaterviewvetclinic.com   33 !"#$ %# &' 1 Bates Blvd., Suite 200, Orinda Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A7 BuildingCertified in LamorindaGreen Builder Since 1999 The Woodward Jones Team - Two Masters of Real Estate Joined to Provide World Class Service! Just Listed and Sold – 28 Southwood Dr, Orinda McCartt Construction Inc. Customm Homesome & Renovations

We sold this home with multiple offers, which means we have buyers still looking for a home. Are you ready to sell?

“As seen on” Frank Woodward Tina Jones WoodwardJonesTeam.com 925.464.3755 “AsAs heard on HG RadioRadio” 925.788.4963 Luxury Property Specialists Build It GREEN Smart Solutions from the Ground Up CalBRE# 01335916/0885925 ©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 Orinda’s New Police Chief, Mark Nagel ...... Using neighborliness and technology to beat the bad guys $ By Laurie Snyder Up to 2,425 in Savings! ENDSENDS JUNE May 31,30, 2014 2013 - -CALL CALL FOR FOR DETAILS DETAILS which have been in Orinda. His role can do so safely and without being ...... model is his dad whom he describes spotted by the potential offender. Turncei veto casACSh re &b ates"Carrier" & as “very much a family man … a Since Nagel’s arrival just over a toquali findfy feverythingor an energy from tax good business man who did well for month ago, the Orinda Police Depart- standardcredit when to yultraou install his family.” One of the strengths he ment has instituted an email tip line sees in Orinda’s police force is that ([email protected]) to en- quiet,an ultra high quiet, efficiency high many of the serving officers have able Orindans to report criminal or heatingefficiency & coolingheating & children of their own, and can relate suspicious behavior, and has also csystems.ooling system. to the challenges faced by both kids begun using the Nixle system em- and parents today. ployed by neighboring communities As a chief who has already con- to alert citizens to accidents and other Furnace ducted a number of meetings with traffic advisories, criminal activity, community groups, he confidently and emergency situations. Maintenance *After Union Local 104 $50 mail-in rebate. states that Orinda’s “strength is our The tech savvy Nagel also brings Ends May 30, 2014 Call for Details. community; it’s the eyes and ears an impressive resume to the job. A everywhere…. The people in this graduate of Saint Mary’s College, he Apr. 6th & 7th, 10 am to 6 pm Booth 15. town know their neighbors,” and look has been the lead for the Contra Costa Lieutenant Mark Nagel Photo Ohlen Alexander out for each other. While he never Sheriff’s Office Automated Regional wants residents or business owners to Information Exchange System Air Conditioning Systems here hasn’t been a day I’ve attempt to take on a bad guy face-to- (ARIES) – a project launched in 2003 5151-C Port Chicago Highway ~ Concord, CA 94520 said I don’t like my job,” 5151-C Port Chicago Highway ~ Concord, CA 94520 “T face, he does want Orindans to be on to help public safety agencies in Con- www.ACSystemsInc.com • [email protected] says Orinda’s new police chief, Mark the lookout for any unusual behavior tra Costa County share jail-related www.ACSystemsInc.com • [email protected] Nagel. A 14-year police veteran who Serving the Bay Area Since 1969 by unfamiliar faces – and to immedi- data. Since that time, the network has License # 632329 Serving the Bay Area Since 1969 worked his way up through the Con- ately call that behavior in to police, spread to more than 75 agencies License # 632329 tra Costa Sheriff’s Department to his providing as much detail as possible. across Contra Costa, Alameda, 925925.676.2103 676 2103 present rank of lieutenant, he has If a suspicious car is involved, use Solano, Santa Clara, and San Joaquin lived in the Lamorinda area for your smart phone camera to capture counties. roughly 20 years, the last three of the car’s license plate number – if you ... continued on page A13

LAFAYETTE $1,150,000 LAFAYETTE $998,000 3/3. Spectacular Mid-Century Modern 4/2. Gracious home offering a tranquil in Zen-like Setting. Designed for The Real Estate Firm people trust setting w/lush gardens. Many upgrades Enjoyment & Relaxation! throughout. Soraya Golesorkhi CalBRE# 01771736 Kathy McCann CalBRE#00946092

PENDING

LAFAYETTE $989,000 ORINDA $1,429,000 ALAMO $1,695,000 ORINDA $1,300,000 ORINDA $2,100,000 4/2.5. Contemporary Single Story. 4/3. Charming Rancher with the ideal 5/4. Bright, spacious estate home in 4/3. The best of the past is present in 4/3. New construction. Gorgeous views, Extraordinary backyard. Open floor floor plan on .55 useable acres. gated community.Stunning backyard this updated Cape Cod gem w/ close to town. More pics/info at plan with upgrades throughout. with pool and spa. 4BD/3BA, 2489 sf & views. OrindaOaks.com. Andi Brown CalBRE#01738605 Lynn Molloy CalBRE#01910108 Holt/Geoffrion CalBRE#00827803/01878803 Patti Camras CalBRE#01156248 The Beaubelle Group CalBRE#00678426

MORAGA $2,750,000 ALAMO $4,900,000 MORAGA $1,295,000 ORINDA $2,095,000 PLEASANT HILL $979,000 4+/4. Executive home, 4837 sqft, 1.54 5/4.3. Gated custom home on Private 4/2.5. Great Sanders Ranch Home! 2946 4/4. New construction! Gorgeous view, 5/2.5. Gorgeous Executive home in golf acre private lot, gourmet kitchen, guest Knoll with unparalleled outstanding sqft in tranquil setting, updated kitchen nice lg yard, quality materials.Cul-de- course community. Views of Reliez Valley house, wine cellar. views and features! and baths, spacious deck w/ hot tub. sac loc. www.orindaoaks.com & Mt.Diablo Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 McCann/O’Donnell CalBRE#00946092/01916567 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 The Beaubelle Group CalBRE#00678426 Jeannette Bettencourt CalBRE#01154506

LAFAYETTE $1,199,000 ORINDA $1,798,000 ORINDA $2,175,900 MORAGA $1,288,000 ORINDA $6,300,000 4/3.1. Resort-Style Living! Sprawling lot 4/3.5. Orinda Downs Luxury through 4+/3. New construction. Gorgeous 3/2. Lovely one story contemporary 4/4.2. Rare opportunity to buy newer w/privacy, pool, fire pit, outdoor Kit., and through. Private deck w/hot tub off views, close to town. More pics/info at with great views. Lrg rear patio, great estate plus two adjacent lots. Gated, wine water features and much more! Mstr. OrindaOaks.com. for entertaining. cellar, gorgeous grounds w/pool & more! Dave Rivera & Sheila Small CalBRE01705345/01415221 Vlatka Bathgate CalBRE#01390784 The Beaubelle Group CalBRE#00678426 Jerry Wendt CalBRE#00178259 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247

SOLD PENDING

MORAGA $1,189,000 ORINDA $1,950,000 ORINDA $875,000 LAFAYETTE $739,000 LAFAYETTE $1,250,000 4/3. Striking Contemporary. Views 4/3. Amazing 1+ ac, rarely available. 2/2.5.Updated roomy sunny condo 4/4. Two houses on one lot. Charming 5/2.5. Lovely larger home. End of cul de abound in this 2 level on a cul-de-sac. Custom built located on a pvt cul de w/serene views. Offers indoor/outdoor 2BR/2BA single story plus two story sac. Private setting. Close to school, sac in the heart of Sleepy Hollow. living + pool, and tennis 2BR/2BA 2 story. Club. Must see! The Holcenberg’s CalBRE#01373412/00637795 Shellie Kirby CalBRE#01251227 The Hattersley’s CalBRE#01181995/00445794 Rick & Nancy Booth CalBRE#01341390/01388020 Susan Schlicher CalBRE#01395579

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, April 9, 2014 business briefs

925.890.7807 Rising Loafer Wins Environmental Awards REAL ESTATE AGENT www.finolafellner.com 3643 "B" Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette (925) 284-8816 www.therisingloafercafe.com Rising Loafer Café and Bakery re- cently received a Cool California Small Business Climate Leader award for 2013. It is the only restau- rant in the state to earn a spot on this year’s list of small business climate leaders. The award was announced in January and presented during a Feb- ruary ceremony in Sacramento. The recognition follows on the heels of Rising Loafer’s receipt of the Central NEW LISTING! COMING SOON! Ahmed Shibli Photo provided Contra Costa Sanitary District’s Pol- 2 Sunrise Hill Court, Orinda 31 Maison Court, Moraga lution Prevention Award last September. Rising Loafer is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday-Monday (closed Tuesday).

Grace Health Care Open House and New 5-Star Rating 348 Rheem Blvd., Moraga Finola Fellner (925) 376-5995 [email protected] Grace Healthcare of Moraga (formerly Rheem Valley Convalescent Hospital and Rehabilitation) specializes in post-acute rehabilitation BRE #01428834 and skilled nursing care. Its facility, located at 348 Rheem Blvd., was recently remodeled and the rooms and common spaces were up- graded. The community is invited to tour the facility from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 17 and meet the team while enjoying refreshments and entertainment. The facility, which accepts Medicare/Medicaid patients, received a 5-star overall rating for 2014 by U.S. News.

Senior Helpers of Contra Costa Wins Award 1550 Viader Dr., Suite D, Moraga (925) 376-8000 172 Paso Nogal Rd l Pleasant Hill www.seniorhelpers.com/contracosta Tastefully updated home with Mt. Diablo views! Senior Helpers of Contra Costa has been awarded the 2014 Best of Home Care Provider of Choice Award by Home Care Pulse. This • 4+BR/3BA - 2900 sqft award is given to home care providers who receive the highest satis- • Includes 1BR/1BA in-law unit faction scores from their current clients. Senior Helpers of Contra • Main kitchen and baths were remodeled in 2013. Costa is honored to have received the award for the second year in a • Spacious great room with vaulted ceiling row. Based in Moraga, Senior Helpers connects professional care- • Convenient office with built-ins givers with seniors who wish to live at home as opposed to a nursing • Two lovely lawn areas are perfect for or assisted living facility. entertaining and play • Close to Contra Costa Country Club and golf! Business Anniversary • Open Sunday 1-4. Tot Drop Turns 20! Offered at $965,000 480 St. Mary’s Rd., Lafayette (925) 284-3999

Tot Drop celebrates its 20th anniversary. Photo provided

Ruth Kaiser had the idea for Tot Drop 20 years ago when she had to have a root canal on a day her son was not going to preschool and she Multi-Unit Residential Specialist had to take him with her. “Not a fun experience with a stressed tod- Expert in the sale and purchase of duplexes dler,” she recalls. She had run a preschool herself, but, “I wanted to create a preschool that was completely geared to the needs of the chil- to 18 unit properties dren, so I contacted the City of Lafayette and we agreed on using a space in the Community Center,” at 480 St. Mary’s Rd. Kaiser says New Listing: it was an immediate success and pretty soon other East Bay cities con- tacted her to open other Tot Drops. “At one point there were Tot Rare Opportunity: Drops in San Ramon, Danville, Walnut Creek, Livermore, Hercules, Concord, and Benicia,” she remembers. “But with the economic 5 Units in Montclair. All units down-turn, even though parents pay only for the hours the kids are Condo quality 2 bdrms, there, the attendance dropped dramatically.” Today there are only two private decks with Tot Drops; one that’s been in Livermore for nine years and the original Lafayette Tot Drop that's still going strong after 20 years. “People SF and Golden Gate bridge often ask me about our curriculum,” says Kaiser. “I say it is to learn views. $170,000 in annual independence and kindness.” Tot Drop accepts children from 1-5 rental income. years of age for as little as an hour or as many as 12 hours per week – no fixed schedule required. “We place the happiness of kids first,” $2,249,000 says Kaiser. The anniversary celebration was held March 27. New from the three Chambers of Commerce Recent Sales: Lafayette Monthly Mixer at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 9 at Byron Park, 1700 Tice Valley Blvd. in Walnut Creek. Entrepreneur's Club at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, April 17, in the Chamber conference room. Green Committee Open Meeting at noon Tuesday, April 22 in the Chamber conference room. Business Forum/Government Affairs meeting at 8 a.m. Friday, April 25 in the Chamber conference room. Fantastic Lafayette duplex. 18 Units, near Piedmont Ave, 1920’s classic fourplex, walking Represented Buyer great current cash flow and distance to Grand Ave, in the up- Earth Day festivities begin at 11 a.m. Sunday, April 27 at the Lafayette tremendous upside in rents. and-coming Grand Lake shopping Library and Learning Center. Represented Buyer. district. Represented Seller. Moraga Your East Bay Investment Real Estate Advisor Membership meeting at 7:30 a.m. Friday, May 2 at the Hacienda de las Flores. Dr. and Mrs. Donahue from Saint Mary's College will be John Caronna the guest speakers. (925) 253-4648 www.eastbayIREA.com Orinda The Orinda Trivia Bee, sponsored by the Chamber and the Orinda CalBRE#0189437 Rotary Club, begins at 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 25 at the Orinda Ma- • 14+ Years experience as owner/hands-on manager of residential and commercial apartment buildings. sonic Lodge, 9 Altarinda Rd., Orinda. $360 per team – dinner included (up to six people per team). For more information call Candy Katten- • Market rent analysis by neighborhood to maximize property values for current owners. burg at (925) 254-3909. To reserve and pay your team entry fee online • Strategies for successful multi-unit property ownership go to the Chamber website at Orindachamber.org. • Identify and advise on 1031 Exchange opportunities

If you have a business brief to share, please contact Sophie Braccini at [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 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A9 Sherrie Knows Sleepy Hollow and the Orinda Country Club!

8 Snowberry Court, Orinda • Offered at $1,525,000 Updated 4BR/4.5BA contemporary residence with 3512± sq. ft. Custom office, 18 ft. ceilings & designer touches throughout. Secluded 1.27± acres taking in magnificent views of the Orinda hillside & Mt Diablo. OPEN SUNDAY 1-4!

Sherrie B. Perlstein 35 Via Hermosa, Orinda • Offered at $1,025,000 Realtor® Built in 1949 on one of the most coveted streets. 4BR/3BA, 925.766.3030 1950± sq. ft. on .51± acres. Back decks overlook beautiful sunrises [email protected] & sunsets. Front courtyard, hardwood floors, lots of character, www.OrindaHome.com wonderful setting & an outdoor artist’s retreat. Move in or remodel. License #: 00925213 Home prices are at an all time high. They are back to where they were in 2006-2007. Call for a FREE confidential no obligation Market Analysis and Opinion of Value of your home. 925.766.3030 Redefining the Way Business is Done

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2 Theatre Square, Suite 117, Orinda, CA 94563 | Follow me @ Facebook.com/SherriePerlstein

Moraga-Orinda Station 46 is on Fire Fire District Board of By Nick Marnell Directors lthough the Contra Costa the Moraga-Orinda Fire District will urgency. “Carman is actively working be rational and logical to proceed with Meetings ACounty Fire Protection District happen. on station 46 and believes we're get- the construction of a single fire station Next meetings: bypassed Lafayette in the deployment MOFD chief Stephen Healy ting close to a deal. We're hopeful that along El Nido Road in replacement of Wednesday, April 16 of additional firefighters made possi- plans to address his board soon with he will be coming forward to the fire station 43 in the MOFD and fire check website for updates ble by the receipt of federal grant the details of an agreement for the Board of Supervisors soon,” she said. station 16 in ConFire.” After 15 money, the city may soon benefit jointly operated station, and Carman In 1999, then MOFD chief Jim years, his idea may finally be making (Go to www.mofd.org as the meeting from the approval of proposed fire said he expects to present the deal to Johnston recommended that “it would it out of committee. date approaches for location and station 46 on the Orinda-Lafayette the Board of Supervisors after that. more information) border. Healy confirmed that both parties are “Rebuilding an organization is as close to a tentative agreement. emotional as taking it down,” said City and county officials also ConFire chief Jeff Carman as he out- sound more upbeat about the consol- Just Sold! lined his staffing plans at the April 1 idated fire station than they did a year district board meeting. “We have an- ago. alyzed our performance data and we “I hope that ConFire's ability to 73 Sullivan Drive, Moraga have not seen any indication that add more personnel in areas where Clean, contemporary 4BR/2BA ranch-style home with stunning views! adding a second resource to the exist- service has been reduced is part of a Listed for $1,075,000 | Sold for $1,185,000 with multiple offers ing Lafayette stations will improve balanced approach to restore service the response times.” throughout the district, which should He suggested that the addition of include taking the final steps to expe- a two-person squad to station 1 in dite the building and staffing of sta- downtown Walnut Creek will provide tion 46,” said Lafayette City Council backup service to Lafayette, but he member Brandt Andersson, who co- maintains that the best thing for chairs the city's Emergency Services Lafayette is to get station 46 open. Task Force. Carman said he is optimistic that the District 2 Supervisor Candace joint venture between ConFire and Andersen expressed a similar sense of ConFire Pitches to Acquire 925|708-1396 Tony Conte County Ambulance Contract 925|324-6246 Mary Beth MacLennan [email protected] California Realty By Nick Marnell [email protected] CalBRE License #: ontra Costa County Fire Pro- porting fire agencies. “There are 00959101|01480008 Ctection District chief Jeff Car- certain benefits to having the fire man requested April 1 that his board district provide first response to authorize him to hire a consultant to medical calls and transportation to study the feasibility of ConFire tak- the hospital,” he said. “The profits ing over the county ambulance serv- made by the business would be put ice. The county's ambulance back into the system. This would contract with American Medical Re- provide additional funds to the dis- sponse expires in 2015. trict, instead of the profits going out Do you want the best in home care for your family? “We're going to have to take of the system to a private company. Call Home Care Assistance. risks and do some things we have By staffing the ambulances with a never done before,” said Carman. lower paid, ‘single role’ employee He outlined how his proposal will instead of firefighter/paramedics, the allow ConFire to exercise direct fire district would be able to put in a management control over the county competitive bid for the contract.” ambulance service. ConFire cur- The supervisors also appeared to rently has no say over where ambu- be on board. lances are stationed or from where “It's exciting. This will create a they respond, he said; as he envi- lot of buzz,” said chair Karen “Named national winner of the ‘Best of Home sions it, the district would be able to Mitchoff. She pushed Carman to send the most appropriate resource bring a concrete proposal to the Care Award’ by Home Care Pulse.” to the scene of medical emergencies board as soon as possible. Supervi- It starts with our caregivers. We carefully screen nearly 25 applicants for each caregiver we and better manage the location of sor John Gioia asked for confirma- hire. Only the best are good enough for Home Care Assistance! ambulances throughout the county. tion that the plan would be a “One of the biggest criticisms I financial win for the district and in- We follow this with extensive training. Finally we invite geriatric experts to meet with our get is why we send both an engine sisted that whatever is done be in the caregivers so that they are up-to-date with the newest ideas about senior care. and an ambulance to a medical best interest of the overall county Hourly and Live-In Care. Our caregiving services focus on two basic types of care: hourly emergency,” said the chief. “My an- emergency medical service system. and live-in. The service you choose is determined by your particular needs. swer is because we don't know The Moraga-Orinda Fire District Hourly caregiving works well for many families. In this situation we provide trained where the ambulance is coming is one of the county fire agencies caregivers on an hourly basis. Here the caregiver focuses all her attention exclusively on from.” that operates its own ambulance the senior. The ambulances will be staffed service – “201 rights,” in EMS jar- Live-in care differs from hourly care in that we provide personal aides on a daily basis. with non-safety emergency medical gon. And though the district has no Live-in caregivers are often the best choice for those seniors who need the companionship technicians and paramedics, not fire- intention of ceding its ambulance of another person, but who do not have intense “all the time” personal needs. fighters, said Carman. “That will be service to ConFire, it did not totally At Home Care Assistance we mean it when we talk about providing the best in senior care– our entry level position, at a much close the door on participation in the whether it is on an hourly basis or a live-in basis. lower pay scale, and the EMTs will countywide concept. “Obviously have the ability to promote to a fire- local control and high quality serv- fighter if their performance is ac- ice are priorities for the district and Meet Jill. Jill Cabeceiras is the client care manager for the East Bay. She ceptable,” he explained. “By only residents,” said Fire Chief Stephen has been working with older adults for more than ten years and is an expert requiring EMT for entry, we can hire Healy. “A joint powers agreement on managing care within the home. Let Jill help you and your family! more diversity into the organization may be a means by which MOFD as well.” could participate while still retaining Call Jill today to schedule your free assessment! Vince Wells, president of United its 201 rights.” Professional Firefighters of Contra Carman assured the supervisors 925-820-8390 • HomeCareAssistance.com Shar Costa County, Local 1230, sup- that he will present to the board his 190-G Alamo Plaza, Alamo, CA 94507 with ported the concept, which he said is formal request for the consultant We've moved to Alamo! being considered by other non-trans- study within 60 days. ed Page: A10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 THE BMW 4 SERIES. UN4GETTABLE: DESIGNED TO CATCH YOUR EYE. Share your thoughts with our community! Opinions in Letters to the Editor are the Michael Heller, BMW Concord, [email protected] BMW Concord 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:

Call Michael Heller 925-998-2150 BMW Concord | 1967 Market ST. | Concord

LeapFrog Plumbing Protect your family and home from dangerous gas leaks . Gas leaks cause ¼ of earth‐ quake‐related fires! Keep your family safe with an earthquake shutoff valve. You can't control the earthquake but you can Peter Hasselman Head Frog Mo Williams control the damage! Orinda April is Earthquake Preparedness Month Editor: Editor: Orinda’s Roads Need Attention NOW! When it comes to safety...... We Hop To It! We Orindans recently passed a sales tax that now raises about $1 million a year for road repairs; that is in addi- Orinda is a great community. We have a great location, $50 off $150 off tion to about $1 million annually from the city’s general great weather, great schools and much more. What we Earthquake emergency Tankless water fund. But with a backlog of $40 million in road and don’t have is great roads. We all use the roads and need drainage work that needs to be done, that $2 million them in good repair to access work, school, emergency shut off valve* heater install* isn’t even enough to maintain the present condition of services etc… We cannot put off fixing them any our roads, which already rank among the worst in the longer. We need to step up and take responsibility for $50 off Bay Area. the roads that are the lifeblood of this community. any plumbing job A group of concerned citizens is once again coalescing Orinda has stretched existing funds as far as they can over $500* around an effort to pass a $20 million bond measure in to keep the main roads functioning, but the current this June’s election. I tip my hat to anyone willing to funds cannot be stretched to repair the residential *Exp. 5/15/14 do the work necessary to tackle this problem. Of streets. The city has aggressively pursued grant funding We Hop To It! course, there are those who will oppose the bond meas- for infrastructure but we cannot expect the county or ure saying that it is too hard a sell for a variety of rea- state to come through with anywhere near the funding Family-owned and serving Lamorinda since 1993 sons: the cost discrepancies in assessed home values that is needed. To repair our roads to safe well main- makes the tax inequitable, some oppose new taxes of tained levels, we will need to support the upcoming green solutions! any kind, others want someone else to pay for it, the bond measure that is dedicated to the repair and main- 2/3 vote necessary seems too high a bar, some believe tenance of Orinda roads. the sales tax should have fixed the problem, this bond We will pay for our roads one way or the other. We will (925) 377-6600 measure doesn’t fix the whole problem so why bother, either step up and support funding to fix the roads or CA Lic and lastly, the general distrust of city hall. These op- we will spend the money supporting our local auto 929641 www.LeapFrogPlumbing.com ponents would be right; it does seem overwhelming. shops as we repair the damage to our cars from driving But I see it a little differently. My neighborhood’s ex- over potholes and rough streets. I urge all Orindans to perience repaving Crestview Drive was also financially make the smart choice and fix our roads now! inequitable. About half of the 125 property owners chipped in $1,000, a few gave twice as much, some Aliza Metzner gave less, and over 1/3 gave no money at all, but all of Orinda us who live along Crestview have benefitted directly every day since. We were not able to repave the entire Editor: street, rather only about 1/3 of it, but it was the section in the worst condition and we all drive it every day so Deer wander by free as you please the quality of life has improved dramatically for every- Wild turkeys roost in old oak trees one. Safety is no longer such a pressing issue. Our Cattle graze on a green hillside property values and vehicles have not suffered. The The town of Moraga is where I reside road will be in good repair for many more years, and I hear the yipping of coyotes late at night our neighborhood has enjoyed an enhanced community And Canadian geese honking, preparing for flight feeling. There were those who said it couldn’t be done, Sound and sights of nature to hear and to see but we proved them wrong. In our quiet little town next to the big city I intend to support the upcoming measure, check out what you can do to help at fixorindaroads.org. If this rural ambience we want to retain Then hillside development we have to restrain Diana Stephens Orinda John O'Hare Moraga          !"" 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 towhich we must limit Letters to the Editor, don’t despair! You can submit your letter to our Public Forum section. Just send your letter to [email protected] and let us know you’d like to be considered for the Public Forum.

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Susan Beebe Katrina Alcorn Bart and Ann Baer Rita Iorfida and Dining with the Authors the with Dining Sarah Blumenfeld Molly Antopol Joe and Lisa Downes Walter Harrower Honorary Co-Chairs: Anne Cain Kim Bancroft Roger and Pat Falcone Pauline Proffett and Kelly and Carrie Barlow Heidi Hambidge Tom Barbash Seth and Shelly Hamalian Matthew Fabela The Rita Iorfida Cris Benton Chris and Susan Mani Frank and Carey Starn Todd Jacobson Joseph Di Prisco Republic Services Wine Sponsor: Literary Hilma Jones Lou Fancher Frank and Carey Starn Kelly and Carrie Barlow Feast Event Co-Chairs: Kathy Langner Mary Ellen Hannibal Dan and Stephenie Caity Meaney Burrows Joyce Maynard Delphine Hirasuna Teichman Special Thanks to was a Mary McCosker Scott Hutchins Mary Wakefield Graphic Arts - John Otto Stephenie Teichman Karen Mulvaney Mollie Katzen Photographer - David Cervenka Storied Jeff Peacock Patricia Klaus Nobel Sponsors: Bookseller - Real Books Linda Peterson Joe Loya Lee and Caity Burrows Diablo Foods Event Ali Platto Wendy MacNaughton Scott and Donna Elliott Lafayette Park Hotel and Spa Vickie Sciacca Joyce Maynard Mark Gundacker and Minuteman Press Anne Shaw Erin Lindsay McCabe Suzy Pak Barbara Llewellyn Thanks to YOU Pat Todd Marissa Moss James and Kelly Hood Catering and Event Planning LAFAYETTE LIBRARY Kari Trimble Caroline Paul Amir and Samar Koopah LAFAYETTE LIBRARY Linda Lee Peterson Tom and Karen Mulvaney AND AND Richard Whitmore ©2014 LLLCF LEARNING CENTER LEARNING CENTER Denise Zetterbaum Michelle Richmond Duane and Laurie Phillips Design: FOUNDATION John Otto FOUNDATION Tamara Ireland Stone Richard Whitmore and Shirley Streshinsky Jacinta Pister Ellen Sussman Rob Yardumian Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A11

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Glenn and Kellie Beaubelle I 925.254.1212 I [email protected] I TheBeaubelleGroup.com Public Forum Let’s Be Smarter About How We Fund Public Works Projects Submitted by CZ Czerner Orinda has fantastic City Council members who are anxious you a guarantee on the interest rate or the cost when you them to continue paying. Therefore, the grand total for a par- to fix the City’s streets. They need 20 million dollars over a go to the polls. cel tax together with an additional ½ percent sales tax for six period of six years; so they paid a company to do a survey of 3. Voting for bonds because your assessed value is low years would be 31 million dollars. So, with the entire com- how they should fund these repairs. Seventy percent of those does not mean that you pay less than you would for other munity pitching in, instead of homeowners paying 32 million surveyed chose bonds over other alternatives. I can only con- alternatives, for example, a parcel tax. Let’s do the math. dollars (or more) for 20 million dollars in bonds for a period clude from this that those voting for bonds don’t know how Let’s assume that someone with an assessed value of of 20 years, the City would have 31 million dollars over a 6- they work. Here are the main things you should know: $500,000 would pay $100 annually for a 20 million dollar year period for the roads and each taxpayer would have saved 1. When the state, county or city says they want to issue bond for 20 years (this is a guess since we don’t know the hundreds of dollars. millions of dollars worth of bonds, the community will interest rate). The total over twenty years would be $2,000. (Note: If the City wants additional funds, they could take actually be paying almost double for that issuance. For But instead, let’s say that the community agreed to pay a par- one or two million dollars from their five million dollar re- the 20 million dollars Orinda wants to obtain from bonds, the cel tax of $230 annually for a six-year period. The total par- serve fund to pay for additional roadwork. What is a reserve consultant for the City estimates that bonds paid over 20 cel tax paid would be $1,380, a savings of $620 over the fund for if not to make urgent repairs to roads? Since the years would cost taxpayers a total of 32 million dollars and supposedly lower bond tax for 20 years. Now I’m not sug- City of Orinda spends approximately 10 million dollars an- bonds paid over 30 years would cost a total of 41 million dol- gesting that a parcel tax at $230 over 6 years adds up to nually, a five million dollar reserve seems excessive) lars. This is in addition to the $300,000 or $400,000 that has $20m. The total is a bit lower than $10 million if there are The argument in favor of bonds is that they are just like to be paid for fees to lawyers, consultants and underwriters. 7,000 households; however, our solution can and should be a mortgage, the way you fund the purchase of a home. This multifaceted. I say that because homeowners alone should is not true. BEFORE you sign your mortgage papers, you 2. When the vote is taken for a bond, we will not know know the interest rate and what your payments will be. You what the interest rate will be, and therefore we will not not have to bear the entire cost of the public project. Those renting should also contribute money to the project. We can can also pre-pay over time to reduce your interest payments. know how much we have to pay annually. We are basi- For bonds, you don’t know what you will pay and you have cally giving someone a blank check. The interest rate is not use several different alternatives to get the other 10 million dollars that we need over this 6-year period. As an example, no way to reduce interest payments. known until immediately before the underwriters issue the My husband and I will vote yes on the Orinda bonds be- bonds. Various factors are taken into consideration. One a ½ cent sales tax in Orinda would bring in one million dol- lars per year or a total of six million dollars over 6 years. We cause we have been told that if the vote is no, we will have of those is how the bonds are rated. Recently, the Orinda to wait to do the road work until another survey is completed. consultant was quoted in this newspaper as saying the know that because the ½ percent sales tax that we already voted for gave us one million dollars this year for our resi- This would not happen for a long time, further delaying ur- bonds would be triple A. However, at the City Council gently needed repairs. However, for future public works meeting he indicated he thought the rating would be double dential roads. If we voted for another ½ percent sales tax, the two combined would bring in 12 million dollars in 6 projects, let’s make sure our community leaders know that A. We cannot be sure Orinda bonds will get even a double issuing bonds is not an acceptable alternative. A rating, and a single A rating would mean an even higher years, bringing the total for a parcel tax plus sales tax to 22 interest rate, which would cost taxpayers more money. million dollars, two million dollars over what is needed. CZ Czerner, an Orinda resident, is an attorney with a JD Other factors affecting the interest rate are too numerous On top of that, the City of Orinda contributes at least $1.5 from USF, LLM from Harvard Law School and MBA from to detail here, but you now understand why no one can give million every year for roadwork, which we would expect UCLA.

Bring your finished entry into your nearest McCaulou’s by Sat., April 19. Winners will be announced on Mon, April 21

Lafayette Danville Moraga Countrywood Clayton Rd. Orinda Montclair Sonoma Napa Auburn Plaza Center Town & Country Moraga Center Treat & Bancroft Vineyard Center Village Square 6211 Medau Place, Oakland Market Place Town Center 372 Elm Ave Page: A12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 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 Community Service [email protected] with the subject header In Service to the Community. Sisterhood in Contra Costa County Former JM Teacher Annually Submitted by Kim Jinnett Travels to India as a Spanish Translator Submitted by Gabriela Mozee

Senior Girl Scouts from Moraga Troop #30072 with Brownie and Daisy Scouts from Washing- ton, Nystrom, Cesar Chavez, Wilson, Highland and Vista elementary schools. Photo provided oraga Girl Scouts from Troop 30072 learning about science, friendship, songs, crafts Mare leading Brownie and Daisy Girl and the importance of sisterhood. Nicole Jones, Scouts from West Contra Costa County in six from the Girl Scouts Council Outreach pro- meetings from now until June. As part of a Sis- gram, hopes that parents of the younger girls terhood Journey, the senior Girl Scouts from will be inspired to continue to operate the troop Campolindo High School are helping their after the senior Girl Scouts have helped to younger sister scouts learn about the hard work launch the excitement and adventure of what's Gabriela Mozee Photo provided and fun the Girl Scouts has to offer. Using space possible. hen her contract expired with Joaquin program, together with our Spiritual Guide, Rev. at Girls Inc. in Richmond, the new scouts are WMoraga Intermediate School as a part- Parthasarathi Rajagopalachari, for the past 12 time Spanish teacher three years ago, another years.” world opened up to Gabriela Mozee. Traveling A translator helps with many of the coordi- Orion Academy’s Community and translating for her beloved meditation prac- nators’ duties, attends daily ‘staff’ meetings, and tice, The Natural Path, known as ‘Sahaj Marg’ is available not only to translate daily talks, Service Club has Risen to New in Sanskrit, Mozee now translates for those who meetings and activities during the formal pro- come from Latin America – including Central gram, but is usually available beyond regular Heights America and Spain – to India in order to delve hours to go on errands with those abhyasis under deeply into the practice for a period of one his/her care to help with communication in Submitted by Ann Wullschleger month. During this month, participants from banks, stores, pharmacies, shopping, immigra- around the world are given in-depth experience, tion offices if needed, Internet cafés and more. activities, lectures, field trips, and more, in the “It’s usually a 14-plus hour day!” says Mozee. basics that The Natural Path practice requires Approximately 55 people from Venezuela, daily: meditation, cleaning and prayer. Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Botswana, Zimbabwe, The participants, known in this program as Madagascar, Morocco, South Africa, Ethiopia, ‘scholars,’ are selected by regional coordinators, Belgium, Vietnam, China, Russia, Belarus, who then ask an abhyasi to apply for the annual Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Estonia, Turkey, Iran, international scholarship program. Romania, Ukraine, and the Philippines partici- Gabriela has been practicing The Natural pated in the recent intensive four-week program, Path meditation since 2002 and has been to including translators/coordinators from Great India seven times in the last five years, returning Britain, Ecuador and France. last January and February. Mozee now teaches free meditation locally “I was fortunate to attend the International under The Natural Path. “I will be happy to ex- Scholars Awards Workshop Program [ISAW] plain and teach you the daily practice and wel- 2014 as a Spanish translator and coordinator, come you into our Sahaj Marg global family,” Orion Academy’s Community Service Club Photo provided thanks to Alberto Lafranchi and Dolly Nicolai she says. ast spring Orion Academy Senior Jake be given to a child in need during the holiday – two longtime French abhyasis (those who If you are interested, visit LBlock wanted to push himself in a new di- season, and they rose to the challenge. Over 30 practice The Natural Path meditation) who now www.sahajmarg.org or email Mozee at gc- rection. During Jake’s personal growth project students, representing all grades and home- live in Chennai, India, our headquarters,” says [email protected]. he decided to create an Orion club that would rooms, donated over 50 gifts, bringing joy to Mozee. “They have been organizing this annual not only engage students socially but also help many young lives around the Bay Area. the school to contribute time and energy to im- After two successful toy drives, the Com- portant causes around the globe. Since the be- munity Service Club focused on a different type New Eagle Scouts Honored ginning of the school year, the Community of fundraising technique as well as a global Submitted by Steve Tennant Service Club has executed several successful issue. Last fall Typhoon Haiyan struck the drives and recently launched a fundraiser at the Philippines leaving 2,000 people dead and mil- school’s poetry night. lions displaced. The club members decided to During the holiday season, students at Orion organize a fundraiser to raise money that could were not just thinking of themselves and the be sent to the relief effort in the Philippines. On presents they might receive. In late November, Poetry Night, Feb. 11, members of the Commu- the Community Service Club organized, pro- nity Service Club took over the snack bar at the moted and successfully ran the 2nd Annual event. They sold basic snack items and home- Orion Toy Drive to benefit the Variety Chil- made baked goods for a generous price, netting dren's Charity of Northern California. Orion stu- over $450. All proceeds went to the Red Cross dents were asked to donate an unwrapped toy to relief efforts in the Philippines. Girl Scout Gold Award Project Combines Love of Children and Music Submitted by Emma Patton New Troop 57 Eagle Scouts, from left: Tom Kunkel, Matt Coupin, Alex Mangus, Jimmy McFeely and Alex Jordan Photo provided the song and had to stifle a laugh while the other rinda’s Boy Scout Troop 57, charted by signed and constructed a vegetable garden in- kids listened intently, as if this was an everyday St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in cluding a picket fence border and arbor en- occurrence.” O Orinda, proudly announced that Matthew trance for the Northern Light School in Patton created a music program at the Con- Coupin, Alexander Jordan, Thomas Kunkel, Oakland, a private school serving underprivi- cord preschool as part of her Girl Scout Gold Alexander Mangus and Jimmy McFeely leged children. Tom Kunkel, a freshman at Award project. She designed her Gold Award achieved Scouting’s highest rank of Eagle DVC, built a 900 square foot patio in the envi- to be a combination of her two passions: chil- Scout. ronmental garden at Miramonte High School, dren and music, and says because of this, she Their achievement was celebrated at an and built a cement block border and decorative truly enjoyed every second she spent at the pre- Eagle Court of Honor held March 23 at Holy trim around two trees. Alex Mangus, a fresh- school. Shepherd Lutheran Church in Orinda. Each man at Pratt Institute in New York, painted and “Essentially, I created a summer music pro- was presented with a proclamation from Orinda installed a 7 by 11 foot mural with help from gram, which focused on developing basic mu- mayor Sue Severson, as well as congratulatory students of Vincent Academy, a recently sical skills for these 4- and 5-year-olds, while letters from elected officials including Rep. opened charter elementary school in West Oak- providing the same encouragement and enthu- George Miller, Sen. Barbara Boxer, Sen. Diane land. Jimmy McFeely, a freshman at UC Santa Emma Patton Photo provided siasm for music that I had received as a child,” Feinstein, Vice President Joe Biden and Presi- Barbara, interviewed and videotaped seven vet- she says. “Upon completion of my project, I re- hen Miramonte High School senior dent and Mrs. Barack Obama. Sen. Feinstein erans about their experiences in World War II alized there is a significant need for Head Start WEmma Patton asked a circle of enthu- also sent U.S. flags that were flown over the and Korea. Jimmy sent the interviews and volunteers, and even an hour a week could have siastic 5-year-olds to sing their favorite songs at U.S. Capital in honor of each Scout. service information to be archived at the Li- a huge impact on these kids' lives.” a Concord Head Start preschool, the last thing To become an Eagle, the candidate must brary of Congress in Washington, D.C. The Head Start program is open to a variety she expected was to hear a rap song by Finatticz, earn a minimum of 21 merit badges, including These five young men join less than 4 per- of volunteer-led activities. “If you're a dancer, she says. “Marcel, the shy one, had barely 12 Eagle-required badges, demonstrate leader- cent of all Scouts who achieve the Eagle rank. teach the children ballet; if you're an artist, lead looked up from his puzzle when his classmates ship and scout spirit, and successfully complete In Troop 57’s more than 50 year history, 132 the children in arts and craft activities – the op- bombarded me with hugs as I walked in, so nat- an Eagle service project. have become Eagle Scouts. The Troop has 55 tions are endless,” Patton says. “If you enjoy the urally, I was surprised when he eagerly volun- Matt Coupin, currently a freshman at MIT, Scouts, and meets Tuesday nights at Orinda In- boundless energy and enthusiasm that teered to perform. Marcel marched into the constructed an outdoor art studio for The termediate School. For boys in fifth grade preschoolers have, consider taking some time center of the circle and shamelessly broke into Orinda Preschool (TOPS). The project effec- through high school interested in learning more to share your passion with these kids, as I did.” song, well… rap,” she says. “‘Don’t drop that tively converted the vacant deck into a func- about Scouting, visit www.orindatroop57.com For more information, contact the Contra Costa thun thun aye, don’t drop thun thun aye,’ he tional, creative workspace. Alex Jordan, a or contact the Troop Committee Chair, Steve Community Service Bureau at (925) 313-1551. rapped confidently. I immediately recognized freshman at Santa Barbara City College, de- Tennant, at (925) 788-1092. Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A13 Acalanes Chapter of NCL Honors 2014 Graduating Class Submitted by Sherry Henderson

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Photo Tiffany Fong he Acalanes Area Chapter of young ladies have volunteered over ing, from left: Gabrielle Paolini, Floral Arts Florist Tthe National Charity League 4,300 hours at 20 different non-profit Claire Gratz, Sierra Regan, Kendall Fresh flowers for any occasion honored the graduating class of 2014 organizations such as Bay Area Res- Green, Cassidy Fuller, Kelly Furay, Weddings • Proms with a Senior Celebration event Feb. cue Mission, Taylor Family Founda- Alison Chen, Chloe Landry; middle Sympathy arrangements • Plants 22 at the Claremont Hotel and Spa in tion, Contra Costa Food Bank, and row, standing: Daniell McCann, Mol- Hunt no further - Berkeley. The 22 young women were the Oakland Zoo. The young women lie Fiero, Claire Haley, Chase Lanier, celebrated for their six-year dedica- give a speech to the 400 event atten- Kate Fellner, Victoria Yee, Samantha Spring arrangements for tion to leadership development, cul- dees, discussing what National Char- Bartak, Lauren Figone, Janell Inger- all occasions. tural enrichment, and community ity League has meant to them and the soll; front row, seated: Julia Duncan, service. National Charity League em- philanthropies they support. The Kendall Henderson, Ellyn Stewart, 3584 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette powers young women with the skills event co-chairs were Grace Paolini Natalie Vigo, Brenna Lowery. (925) 284-5765 www.floralartsflorist.com We are NOW a part of "THE KNOT" and confidence to lead, and these and Nancy Ingersoll. Top row stand-

Civic News Orinda Last Chance to Nominate Moraga’s Citizen of the Year Service Above Self Nominations are being accepted for Moraga's Citizen of the Year. The designated ... continued from page A6 outstanding citizen will be honored with a banquet event on Friday, May 2 at the Saying it will be up to voters to decide Mayor’s Brown Bag Lunch series to Soda Center of Saint Mary's College. how quickly to effect change, she ex- enable residents to meet with her in- Nominations with detailed information concerning the individual's community plained that “there really was no one formally. She also encouraged Orin- activity may be addressed to Wendy Scheck, associate publisher, Lamorinda perfect vehicle” and that repairs could dans to actively engage by Weekly, at P.O. Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94556, or by email to only be achieved via “a multi-phased, volunteering for city commissions, at- multi-pronged approach,” before cau- tending CERT classes, and turning [email protected]. tioning that maintenance will always out for 2014’s Orinda Action Day of Sponsors for Moraga's Citizen of the Year event are Lamorinda Sun, Saint Mary's College, Lamorinda be an issue. “Roads and drains are not Community Service, which kicks off Weekly, Moraga Chamber of Commerce and Kiwanis of Moraga Valley. static; they continue to deteriorate.” at the Orinda Library Plaza at 9 a.m. Proclaiming 2014 “a year of on April 19. To learn more and sign teamwork and collaboration, Sever- up, click on the volunteer tab at the son reiterated that Orindans must Orinda Community Foundation’s Share Your Celebrations and Remembrances come together to strengthen public website: www.orindafoundation.org/. If you would like to share an announcement about a special event or achievement, such as a safety across the community, finalize In closing, Severson quoted wedding, engagement, scholarship or graduation of a local resident, or about a special person from the city’s roads and drains plan and Henry Ford, “Coming together is a be- Lamorinda who has passed, send a photo along with your text (up to 250 words) to improve communications. Severson ginning. Keeping together is progress. [email protected], and include “Celebrations and Remembrances” in the subject line. then announced the launch of a Working together is success.” Orinda’s New Police Chief, Mark Nagel ... continued from page A7 Now, ARIES not only helps public eral and state grants. According to a safety groups share dispatch call March 2014 report by the Bay Area maps, crime lab reports, offender ad- Urban Security Initiative, which has dresses, probation reports, finger- been considering ARIES for grant prints, mug shots, and restraining funding, San Francisco Bay Area order information, but also enables agencies are increasingly using law enforcement professionals from ARIES “to make better decisions, uti- different agencies to compare notes lize assets and prepare for future when investigating the same suspects events.” or similar crimes. And that can only help make ARIES is funded via fees paid to Orinda safer. To learn more, catch Contra Costa County by the other Chief Nagel’s reports in the Orinda counties – roughly $30,000 per year Outlook, a weekly publication avail- per lead agency – as well as both fed- able on the city’s website. Anti-Theft 101 with Chief Nagel

1. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that, because you live in a low crime neighborhood, you can leave valuables in your car. Auto burglaries are typically 15-second, smash-and-grab WATER CONSERVATION, LIVE MUSIC, LUNCH, crimes of opportunity that leave shattered car windows and damaged door locks in their wake. VENDORS, NONPROFIT DISPLAYS, “BRING 2. Crooks steal first and “do the math” later, evaluating the booty they pull from stolen backpacks and briefcases after they’ve fled the crime scene. So, lock belongings in the YOUR OWN WATER BOTTLE”, BOUNCE HOUSE trunk of your car. Even old coats tempt would-be thieves be- cause goodies might just be hidden in coat pockets or under jackets. Sunday, April 27th 3. Never leave any of the following on a dashboard, seat, or in an easy-to-open glove compartment: GPS device, cell 11-3pm phone, laptop or iPad/iPod, wallet or purse with check book FREE and credit cards, mail, or vehicle registration documents. 4. Garage door openers are particularly tempting because Lafayette Library & Learning Center they give burglars access to homes after they’ve cleaned out homeowner cars. Lock yours away rather than leaving at- More information at: sustainablelafayette.org tached to the driver’s side visor, which can be spotted from Festival outside your vehicle. 5. When parking, consider the location. Is your car hidden be- Sponsors: tween trucks or in another area blocking public view of your car? Thieves prefer to break into places where they run the least risk of being seen. 6. Robbers have broken the hearts of the bereaved during home burglaries across the country when taking urns con- taining the ashes of homeowners’ loved ones. Funeral urns are being pawned for their pricey, precious metals. If you have an urn of a loved one in your home, consider interring it in a columbarium or other safe location. Page: A14 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 Rare Find in Coveted and Serene Bollinger Canyon!

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From Front Page Local Governments Stop PG&E Tree Cutting Project – For Now ... continued from page A1 She added that it appears the line runs While cities are concerned about these issues,” said Falk. “I have or- Call Tom along the Lafayette-Moraga Regional the safety of their residents and want dered the police chief to direct his po- for a free Since 1993! Trail where numerous trees are proper maintenance of the gas lines, lice officers who come upon such estimate Tom Gieryng, owner and operator planted, but PG&E’s map is not very they challenge PG&E’s right to cut work to stop utility workers from precise and the agency told the town trees with complete disregard for trimming trees until the matter is re- it would not give it precise data on the local rules and environmental laws. viewed by the city engineer.” pipeline before July. They believe that there are also other Keeter says that the issue has not Falk and his public works team es- ways to protect the pipelines from tree been discussed by the Orinda City timated that there are at least four zones roots. Council yet, but it is likely that the where Lafayette is at risk for losing “PG&E has been testing the lines city’s position will be to hold PG&E C abinet M odifications significant trees to the utility’s chain- with high-pressure water which is to the same standards as anybody else saws. “The riparian corridor along Mt. more directly related to public safety,” when it comes to cutting trees. With over 25 years fulfilling custom needs, we can alter or modify Diablo Boulevard near the Lafayette said Keimach. “This clearance of Orinda’s municipal code prohibits re- most cabinetry, while still utilizing your existing cabinetry for: Reservoir; mature street trees along the vegetation and structures above the moval of protected trees without a

• Large TVs/ Refrigerators and appliances Licensed Cabinet & south side of Mt. Diablo Boulevard be- pipeline has a number of issues and permit. The application to cut a tree • Recycle Bins and shelf pullouts Millwork Contractor #598395 tween Diablo Foods and Chico’s; dec- the benefit to the pipeline safety carries a fee and includes mitigation • Cabinet alterations/repairs orative trees in Lafayette Plaza, the seems debatable.” She added that measures such as replacement or Thinking about home, office, entertainment, custom cabinetry, shelving, eastern trellis also appears to be at risk; PG&E has failed to produce evidence moving of the tree. crown mouldings, baseboards, new doors or mantels? We can help there, too! and scores of mature trees along the that tree roots ever damaged pipelines “Respecting this important part- 925.827.1093 Paul Kephart Master Craftsman west side of St. Mary’s Road between (roots grow toward water, not gas), nership (with cities), PG&E will not www.TheCabinetMd.com the Community Center and the Mor- and that if they did, there are a num- remove any trees under this program aga town border,” he said. ber of root barrier systems that could in the East Bay until a shared solution Janet Keeter, Orinda’s city man- be explored before resolving to cut- is reached,” said Soto. But the agency ager, said, “We have requested spe- ting down the trees. The Moraga remains committed to addressing cific data from PG&E but are not Town Council is not scheduled to dis- trees and structures over its pipelines expecting a response before May.” cuss the issue at this time. that can interfere with safely access- All Airports On PG&E’s pipeline map, it looks “Lafayette will refuse to issue en- ing, inspecting and maintaining the TAXI BLEU Served 24/7 like Glorietta Boulevard and the por- croachment permits to PG&E for tree pipelines. PG&E’s pipeline map can tion of Moraga Way that runs from removal along the pipeline pathway be found online at Dispatch: Glorietta to the Moraga border would until the cities and PG&E have ar- www.pge.com/safety/systemworks/g 925-849-2222 be impacted. rived upon a process for resolving as/transmissionpipelines. Direct: 925-286-0064 Civic News Lafayette www.mytaxibleu.com [email protected] Update on the Old Library Reuse Task Force By Cathy Tyson sible use. The group wanted to get the word out to other interested parties, who may have missed the initial out- reach effort, hence the signs. Consisting of volunteers who represent a range of viewpoints and some city leaders, the task force first set out to find a way to compare proposals. After much dis- cussion, project evaluation criteria were nailed down and consist of a four-part analysis: plan consistency, environ- CARPET CLEANING mental impacts, economic and social impacts, and success factors. The thorough list of questions for all applicants LAMORINDA'S FAVORITE FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS runs the gamut from traffic congestion, a credible business FOR OVER 36 YEARS plan, and obviously very important – does the proposer (925) 283-8744 have the appropriate financing in place to complete reha- SPRING SPECIAL bilitation and construction. www.siggyscarpetcleaning.com I5% OFF Presentations have already been made by the City of 3408 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Lafayette Photo Andy Scheck Lafayette and the Lafayette Dance Center, along with a t’s hard to miss the giant signs in front of the old combined effort from Lafayette Senior Services Commis- ILafayette library and the former doctor’s office across sion and the Lafayette Community Foundation to form a the street. What to do with this pair of city-owned prop- downtown community center. Additional proposals from erties is currently in the hands of the Old Library Reuse Futures Explored, Eden Housing, Wellspring Educational Task Force that is seeking to evaluate and make a recom- Services and the Lafayette School District will likely mendation on the highest, best and most fiscally respon- stretch into the summer months.

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James Burkin www.BurkinElectric.net Sole Proprietor  +Q1VCC+:JV:= N+:`:7VV QQ`$VQ%=XVIQRVCN+:`:7VV 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2000± Sq. Ft. 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2277± Sq. Ft. cV`VR: $5 5 cV`VR: $5 5 Kurt Piper Submit stories and story ideas to 925.818.8000 KurtPiperGroup.com [email protected] License #: 01130308 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B1 Grace and Passion Lamorinda marathoners to show their love for Boston a year after bombing By Laurie Snyder smack in the middle of an intersec- tion.” Sirens propelled O’Brien to start looking for his wife, Leslie. Director of Community Life at the Orinda Community Church, she was in town to support her husband. “At first, when I heard the second blast,” says Leslie O’Brien, “I thought it must have been a blown band running and saying, ‘I love mile-and-a-half away. Passing Fa- transformer.” She smelled smoke – you babe,’ we did just fine.” neuil Hall where he and Leslie had and sulfur. “This very tough looking Working her way back to their been tourists just hours before, he man was walking away from the hotel, Leslie found Lamorindans noticed “a lot of people walking in race crying; my heart sank.” A sin- Heather Callister and Carter Hem- the same direction, mostly specta- gle tear trailed down his cheek. For ming, who had both finished run- tors and some fellow runners.” Col- 45 minutes, she unsuccessfully tried ning. Terming Hemming her knight leagues and clients expressed relief phoning her husband, all the while in shining armor for texting her hus- at his arrival. He collected himself, flashing back to images of him band non-stop, she also remains rehydrated and phoned to let folks rounding the marathon’s final turn – grateful to Callister for making the know he was okay before returning waving to her at the vantage point wait easier. to the hotel where he found and they’d staked out a day earlier. “If Meanwhile, Tim O’Brien promptly kissed Leslie. the last memory I have is of my hus- headed for his employer’s office – a ... continued on page B4

Tim O’Brien finishing the 2013 Boston Marathon. Photos provided

e absolutely heard it; we people were killed and more than “Wturned and looked, and 260 others were injured, including a there was a puff of smoke.” Show- Martinez sixth grader who suffered ering spectators with carpenter nails severe shrapnel wounds. and ball bearings, a pair of home- There was concern, but no fear made pressure cooker bombs among runners recuperating at the rocked Boylston Street on April 15 finish area, recalls O’Brien. Then, at 2:49 p.m. Eastern time – just 50 everything changed. “I saw a race minutes after Orinda native son, official break down. This person “We were greatly moved by the outpouring of love from Boston and our friends in Lamorinda,” says Leslie Darwin Tim O’Brien, crossed the 2013 was someone who was on an ele- O’Brien, pictured here during one of her many happy moments with husband, Tim. They attended a Congrega- Boston Marathon finish line. Three vated stand to direct traffic, right tional Church Blessing of the Runners in Boston last year, and plan to do so again this Easter.

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This year The J.F. Kap- nek Trust is providing mothers with a more complete drug regimen; this will allow mothers who continue their treatment to be able to safely breastfeed. Robbins believes the transmission rate could potentially drop below 1 percent. While eliminating pediatric HIV is the primary goal of the trust, it sup- ports several other programs to help the children of Zimbabwe, where both poverty and unemployment rates are very high. The Preschool Program ensures that approximately 12,000 children attending 150 Kapnek-supported The new Lamorinda chapter of "Boys Team Charity" spent March 1 volunteering with The J.F. Kapnek Trust, transporting over 30 wheelchairs and a full preschools are fed a hot meal each local storage unit of annual donations to the "Container of Love," which was located at the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church before being sent on day. “The level of malnutrition has its way to Zimbabwe this month. From left: Carey Zimmerman, Connor Peterson, Oliver Feigan, Nick Price, Justin Pratt, Alex Baldwin, Cody Lyon, Mason dropped significantly,” Robbins said. Loyet, Connor King, and Alex Crum. Photo Carey Zimmerman The trust also supports teacher train- sk parents the world over what atrics team, Robbins has eased the The family trust was started by The trust remained in the family ing, renovates buildings, provides Athey wish for their children and aches and pains of Lamorinda kids for his great-uncle, James Kapnek, who, and in the early 1980s, Kapnek’s supplies and helps develop the cur- the simple answer is bound to in- the past 24 years. And as executive di- living in the African country, became niece took the helm, focusing funds riculum. “We make sure the kids clude health. Lafayette’s Dr. Daniel rector of the J.F. Kapnek Trust for the a successful businessman; upon his on women’s health and education. have materials to work with, well Robbins has spent his career work- last 15 years, he’s also worked dili- death, Kapnek left the majority of his “My aunt reinvigorated the medical trained teachers, health care check ing to grant that wish both locally gently to keep the children of Zim- fortune in the trust, designating it pri- community,” Robbins explained, ups and parents who come in to cook and on a more global level. babwe – more than 10,000 miles marily for education and medical re- “getting medical students from both every day,” he stated. As part of the Lamorinda Pedi- away – safe and healthy. search. the States and the region to practice The trust also offers physical in the more rural areas.” therapy and medical assistance to It was at this time that Robbins, more than 1,500 children with dis- then a pediatric resident at Oakland’s abilities in northern Zimbabwe. Children’s Hospital, made his first Hillary Clinton made famous the trip to Zimbabwe. “It was an amaz- ancient African proverb “It takes a ing, indelible, life changing experi- village to raise a child.” Nowhere is ence,” he said. “And at the same this better illustrated than with the time, it was extremely painful. Hav- work Robbins and the Kapnek Trust ing children die in your arms and are doing. knowing that in the States, these The Trust receives funds from beautiful babies would survive, was both UNICEF and the U.S. Agency a very harsh reality for a young pe- for International Development as diatric resident. It set the course for well as monies from a variety of me.” grants. Needless to say, additional When Robbins’ aunt passed assistance is always needed. away, he attended her memorial in The Trust partners with the Zimbabwe and “was tremendously Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian inspired” as he listened to the Min- Church and “they have been amaz- isters of both Health and Education ing,” Robbins said. “They’ve helped speak of the significant impact she fill containers with needed supplies, had made in their country. “I realized provided money, sent youth groups there were so many needs there,” to Zimbabwe to help paint and refur- Robbins said. He saw that babies bish preschools.” LOPC’s preschool- were dying in large numbers because ers have even gotten involved with a of the country’s HIV/AIDS epidemic pen pal project. Local kids and and vowed to do what he could to adults, as well as scout troops, change that. He agreed to the fam- schools and organizations have for ily’s request that he take over the years contributed funding, books, trust. soccer equipment, school and med- Returning home, Robbins con- ical supplies. tacted Dr. David Katzenstein, an Additionally, the Trust sponsors HIV researcher at Stanford, who a Family 5K Run/Walk every year to “told me that my aunt had actually help raise both awareness and funds. funded his first trip to Zimbabwe to This year’s event is at 9 a.m. Sunday, look at the epidemiology of AIDS May 4 at Miramonte High School. there.” The two medical profession- “There will be a delicious brunch in- als connected with others involved in cluding authentic Zimbabwean the HIV/AIDS field and created their ‘Sadza” as well as live Zimbabwean first proposal for pediatric HIV pre- music,” Robbins said. (For informa- vention. tion about the run, visit As Robbins explained, “most pe- www.active.com, search for Kap- diatric HIV comes from mother to nek.) child transmission at birth,” so we “All that we are accomplishing developed the national program, Pre- in Zimbabwe is built on the founda- vention of Mother to Child Trans- tion of support from the Lamorinda mission of HIV (PMTCT). “In the community,” Robbins noted, “and last 15 years,” Robbins noted, “the connecting our community with program has grown from one small what’s happening over there is part clinic to 850; more than 250,000 of what’s great for me.”

Lafayette pediatrician Dan Robbins with some of the mothers and children in Zimbabwe he has helped. Photo provided Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B3

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Zippity Do It! By Cathy Dausman

From left, Riley Breul and Cooper Davis, who decorated their faces rather than their Rube Goldberg Machine Contest entry. Photos Cathy Dausman

ourteen Stanley Middle School but didn’t help them build their ma- Fstudent groups recently had fun chines. The students were bound to not getting to the point. Rube Gold- learn. berg Machines are never designed to Parent Stri Zulch said her daugh- be quick. Students sported T-shirts ter’s team (Nicki Zulch, with Lizzy proclaiming “I don’t do simple” and Follmer, Shannon McVay, Sammy invented machines, using an assort- Martin and Cailey McVay) learned to ment of items – bells, magnets, pul- use power tools while “the project leys, marbles, xylophones, smart lived in my house for two months.” phones, gears, and recycled materials Students were judged by a panel of – to complete a simple task. Whether four; two adults, and two high school At the UC Eye Center or not each machine worked perfectly, students who competed when they at- the groups all managed to hit their au- tended Stanley. Lengthy run times seeing is believing. dience (200 family members and and a “hands off” execution (no nudg- friends) squarely on the funny bone. ing from contestants) earned high The Rube Goldberg Machine scores. Entrants also decorated their Contest was named in honor of a San project to reflect a theme, unless you Francisco-born Pulitzer Prize winning were Riley Breul and Cooper Davis. cartoonist, sculptor, engineer and au- Those students taped zipper goatees thor. As a cartoonist, Goldberg to their chins. “We didn’t want to de- dreamed up complex, comical “in- sign our project,” Davis explained, ventions” to solve simple problems. “so we designed ourselves.” The contest is now 60 years old, and Meneghetti said 2014 was an allows a new generation of students amazing year for the Rube Goldberg from middle school through college contest, and he was really pleased to appreciate Goldberg’s ingenuity. with the number of contestants who Sixth grade science teacher Mike stuck with the process, start to finish. Meneghetti introduced the contest to After weeks of hard work, it was over Stanley 14 years ago. It ran annually in a matter of seconds. Winners in- for three years before becoming an cluded: Group 1(Vasya Tremsin and every-other-year event, with 2014 David Ji); Group 2 (Sophia Browne marking their ninth contest. and Lynn Wolfe); and Group 7 Tasks in past years included pop- (Bianca Chao and Emily Sverak). ping a balloon, assembling a ham- Honorable mention for their contrap- burger, raising a flag, and peeling an tion “Zipping through Time” went to apple. This year’s contestants had two Group 13 (Jeremy Ridge, Christophe At the UC Eye Center in Berkeley, how you see is what you get. attempts to zip up a zipper, using at Maiden and Jeremy Hathaway). Because we’re part of the top-rated UC School of Optometry, least 11 steps. The disassembly took mere min- we’re here for you and your family in a whole range of ways: Participation was optional, but utes, and although the Rube Goldberg • Pediatric Vision Care • Eye Examinations Meneghetti said the competition at- contest was over, the laughter lin- • LASIK Surgery • Geriatric Vision Care • Contact Lenses tracted “problem solvers who like to gered. As one team’s project headline • Eyewear Center • Specialized Vision Care build stuff.” As a teacher, he con- so aptly put it: “Zip, zip hooray!” sulted with contestants ahead of time, Make an appointment and go Cal!

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Reach 60,000+ in Lamorinda Advertise in Lamorinda Weekly Call 925-377-0977 today I appreciate the work you do on covering our local Lamorinda news. The Lamorinda From left, parent judges David Osborn and Dave Bricetti evaluate Bianca Weekly is the only local paper I think is worth reading! Thank you, Leslie Chao and Emily Sverak's entry, one of three winners. Page: B4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Learning Ways to Get Organic Food Direct From the Farm to Your Doorstep By Sophie Braccini Sing, dance and celebrate Shabbat with children ages 0-5 part of a Sustainable Lafayette 2nd Saturday at 9:30am and 4th Friday at 5:30pm year-round Foods Group event at the www.temple-isaiah.org/totshabbat Lafayette Library. The free event will include a presentation, a movie, displays and an opportu- nity to meet with farmer represen- tatives. "Groups of local farmers will discuss how they get together to bring fresh organic food to doorsteps or to a dropping point in Lamorinda,” says Sustainable Lafayette’s Alison Hill. “We will also remind folks about the great farmers’ markets in Moraga and Orinda, and the quality grocery stores." Hill says that the Foods WATER SMART LANDSCAPING Group does not endorse a specific Get your yard ready for spring time organization, but wants to help Free Estimates support small passionate local farmers who are engaged in the • Synthetic/Artificial Grass pursuit of growing quality food. -Current customers who regu ٻۉےڼڧٻھۄۏۀۃۏۉ۔ڮ • Design & Consult larly receive boxes of produce will be at the event as well to an- -Landscape Installation swer questions and share their ex ٻۏۇېێۉۊڞٻځٻۉۂۄێۀڟNew • • Re-Landscape & Remodel perience. There will be representatives from three differ- Walkways & Driveways ent farm groups, all servicing ٻۉۊۄۏڼۇۇڼۏێۉڤٻۀۋڼھێڿۉڼڧٻےۀکPaver • • Hardscape Lamorinda. As part of the program, the ٻۇۀڿۊۈۀڭٻځٻۀۋڼھێڿۉڼڧڈۀڭ 50-minute movie “Grow” will be FREE DEMOLITION WITH INSTALL shown. “It takes a look at a new generation of sustainable farmers ٻێ۔ڼےۀۑۄۍڟٻځٻێ۔ڼےۆۇڼےٻۍۀۑڼګ A General landscaping Contractor through the eyes, hearts, and minds of 20 passionate, idealistic, ”,Owned & Operated and independent young growers ٻۀۋڼھێڿۍڼڣLocally Lic. #938445 says Hill. Fresh vegetables at the Moraga farmers’ market Photo Andy Scheck The event is free, but Hill ٻۀۂڼۉۄڼۍڟ 925-819-2100 amorinda residents inter- meet with local farmers and rep- adds that donations are appreci- Lested in learning ways to ac- resentatives, and share experi- ated. Refreshments will be -cess affordable locally grown ences with community members served, no registration is neces ٻێۉۊۄۏۋڪٻۀۋڼھێڿۉڼڧٻۉۀۀۍڢ organic seasonal produce can at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 10 as sary. A GeneralVISIT OUR WEBSITE Engineering Contractor WWW.BAYAREAGREENSCAPES.COMLocally Owned and Operated Contractor LIC #938445 Grace and Passion ... continued925-819-2100 from page B1 They remember with genuine day,” says Phillips, who will “cele- “Knowing yourself and how to To show your love for Boston and • Team Wediko: (Carter Hem- www.bayareagreenscapes.comawe the kindness of the Bostonians brate that part of human nature and get through hard times is empowering say no to hate, visit: ming, Tom Innis, Drew Mickel, Ken who ignored their own trauma to coming together.” for any individual,” says Tim • Tim O’Brien/Team BIDMC: Webster): make sure the O’Briens of Orinda “The atmosphere is electric,” O’Brien. “Going back to Boston is www.crowdrise.com/bidmc2014bost www.crowdrise.com/Wediko2014Bo were okay, and are returning in 2014 adds Meagher. “It’s so historic; it’s an the way that I cope with what hap- onmarathon/fundraiser/timobrien2 stonMarathon/fundraiser because they want to honor that tena- honor just to be there.” Leslie O’Brien pened last year. That’s the key for me; cious compassion. Tim O’Brien is agrees. “Just witnessing a marathon is you take what you’re dealt and you The True Meaning of Patriots’ Day one of the runners raising funds for life affirming. Seeing folks in full mil- make something positive out of it. It’s Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Cen- itary uniform running, wheelchairs a celebration of Boston, and what it ter, the Harvard Medical School wheeling, Bostonians cheering, that is means to be an American.” teaching facility which healed the what life is all about.” marathon’s injured and has also trained numerous San Francisco Bay Lamorinda’s 2014 Boston Area physicians. Funds raised will bolster the hospital’s annual fund Marathon Contingent which “keeps the lights on,” says hos- Established by the Boston Athletic Association in 1897, the pital representative Krissy Talevi. Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon. “I went “We’ve been so lucky in our lives; we to college in Boston and got to experience the enthusiasm for it are so incredibly blessed,” explains firsthand there,” says Eve Phillips, who witnessed the marathon’s Leslie. “I can’t give a billion dollar 100th anniversary as a freshman at MIT and then qualified a few check, but I can do something.” Smil- years later. “It’s always been considered that special runners’ ing, she adds, “To whom much is marathon.” given much is expected.” Follow along at Twitter at #weruntogether, watch live online Fifteen other Lamorindans will at: www.baa.org, or sign up for AT&T text/email alerts by enter- Colonial militiamen briefly halt behind a wall during the pursuit of also make the run April 21 from Hop- ing your favorite runner’s bib number: www.baa.org/races/ the British column. Courtesy National Park Service kinton (see sidebar). “My goal is to boston-marathon/participant-information/att-athlete-alert.aspx. finish strong and enjoy the crowds at The Sugar Act (1764) and Stamp Act (1765). The Boston Massacre the end,” says Chris Severson. His Bib # Name City, State Wave/Corral (1770). Twin tea parties in Lexington and Boston (1773). Still mother, Orinda Mayor Sue Severson, 12588 Byrne, Trapper Lafayette, CA 2/4 more Coercive, Intolerable Acts (1774), prompting cries of “Inde- will be cheering from the sidelines for 22966 Dykhouse, Mark Lafayette, CA 3/5 pendence!” from farmers’ fields to church pulpits. him – and for all of the participants 13239 Webster, Ken Lafayette, CA 2/5 But George III, King of Great Britain and Ireland, was unyield- who refuse to let hate win. 23964 Gormley, Robert J. Moraga, CA 3/6 ing. British Redcoats were sent to destroy rebel arms. It was Sidelined with knee issues, Hem- 12724 Peterson, Spencer R. Moraga, CA 2/4 dawn, April 19, 1775, and the world was about to change forever. ming is raising funds for Wediko 15460 Digrande, Tanja Orinda, CA 2/7 The third Monday each April has since become a statewide Children’s Services in Boston along 25225 Hung, Patty A. Orinda, CA 3/8 holiday in Massachusetts that is as integral to life as crisp air and with Ken Webster and Tom Innis. 30565 Innis, Thomas P. Orinda, CA 4/4 trees transforming from summery greens to the fiery reds and Steve Meagher, one of the brains be- 8591 Kitayama, Dina M. Orinda, CA 1/9 oranges of fall. Re-enactors reenact with Long Rifles. Kids learn. hind Lamorinda’s annual Fourth of 15001 Meagher, Steve Orinda, CA 2/7 Adults nod in solidarity, reminded that America’s freedoms are July Parade, will be there – as will 2040 Mickel, Drew W. Orinda, CA 1/3 worth protecting – even in the face of adversity – because it is Moraga native, Eve Phillips, who will 31870 Nicolaou, Phil Orinda, CA 4/5 the nation’s collective sense of community which keeps the run her 11th consecutive race. “After 16008 O’Brien, Tim Orinda, CA 2/8 United States strong. the bombing last year, people were 12675 Phillips, Eve Orinda, CA 2/4 The annual coming together at the Battle Green of Lexington just so open and helpful. So much 8224 Severson, Chris Orinda, CA 1/9 and Concord’s North Bridge, Patriots’ Day is one for the “bucket grace and passion came out of that 18435 Westover, Debbie Orinda, CA 3/1 list.” To learn more, visit: www.nps.gov/mima/patriots-day.htm. Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B5 please... Live The Retirement That You Deserve FPOWith A WithReverse A Reverse Mortgage! Mortgage! For homeowners For homeowners age 62 age and 62 older and older

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“Pack your little kit, show your grit, do your bit / Yankees to the ranks from the towns and the tanks/ Make your mother proud of you / And the old Care. Comfort. Compassion. Red White and Blue.” George M. Cohan was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor in 1936 for writing 1917’s “Over There,” the song that in- When you need it most. spired a generation of young men to take up arms. Image provided by Hollingsworth Fine Art Collection, Florida. Your Lamorinda Senior Checklist … Find cook for better nutrition alsehood is a recognized and called the conflict ‘a holy war of civ- Get driver to appointments, groceries “Fextremely useful weapon in ilization against barbarity.’” As Get help with laundry & changing sheets warfare, and every country uses it Turkey announced its support for Find somebody for companionship, exercise, puzzles quite deliberately to deceive its own Germany, their sultan termed his em- CALL SENIOR HELPERS people, to attract neutrals, and to mis- pire’s enmeshment “a sacred strug- We can assist with these activities and more. lead the enemy. The ignorant and in- gle.” Call for a free assessment 925-376-8000 nocent masses in each country are “Just as warfare on an industrial Bonded and insured. unaware at the time that they are scale required the mass production of Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated. ©2011 SH Franchising, LLC being misled, and when it is all over new weapons like poison gas, so this only here and there are the falsehoods new kind of conflict required the mass discovered and exposed.” production of public support,” adds This 1928 indictment of human Hochschild, whose lecture opened the duplicity and gullibility was made by latest exhibition by Saint Mary’s Col- British Member of Parliament and lege Museum of Art to depict human- first Baron Ponsonby of Shulbrede, ity at war – “Swords to Plowshares: Arthur Augustus William Harry Pon- Metal Trench Art from World War I” sonby, in “Falsehood in War-Time: and “Songs of the Patriot: When Propaganda Lies of the First World American Music Went to War.” De- 25 Years of Caring, Recognized for Excellence War.” Ponsonby also famously said scribed as “a powerful mix of art and that truth was the first casualty of war, history,” the exhibits end their run Exploring Care Options? Considering In-Home Care? a maxim already evident at World April 13. Eldercare Services will work with you to reduce family burdens War I’s outset as presidents and mon- “The psychological factor in war and stress by helping you make important decisions and archs converted music and newspa- is just as important as the military fac- transitions throughout the aging process. pers into propaganda engines tor,” said Ponsonby. "The morale of powering the public’s backing of bat- civilians, as well as of soldiers, must Flexible and Stable, Full-Service Agency tles. be kept up to the mark. The War Of- Reliable & Professionally Trained Caregivers In the 2011 book “To End All fices, Admiralties, and Air Ministries Expertise You Can Trust Wars,” author Adam Hochschild ex- look after the military side. Depart- plains, “Countries vied with each ments have to be created to see to the Call for an initial Complimentary Professional Assessment other to declare the war a crusade for psychological side. People must never 888-714-8381 or visit EldercareAnswers.com the most noble goals. Le Matin, a big be allowed to become despondent.” French daily, on August 4 [1914]

Infantrymen faced poison gas attacks like this one while attempting to hold German lines during World War I trench warfare. Note messenger dog running (right) as soldier readies second dog for release (center). Public domain, Deutsche Reichsarchiv via Australian War Memorial. Page: B6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 Debut of Downtown City verynicepools.com very 925-283-5180 Dog Party nice By Cathy Tyson pools

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Established 1977 in Lafayette, California. Maintenance • Repair • Build Serving the entire Contra Costa County area and beyond. The Intricacies of Art and Poetry PBS NewsHour’s Jeffrey Brown facilitates panel discussion at SMC about published poetry and related art By Lou Fancher from one, she said, “The word edge hard to separate the two worlds,” she has wings made of ‘E’.” The line said. Today, having co-authored, with demonstrated her acute visual sense – sculptor Kendall Buster, “The Cri- applied to both the individual word tique Handbook, The Art Student’s and aspects of the natural world. Sourcebook and Survival Guide,” and Holding up the collection of poems widely recognized for her spacious, on fire, she exposed the jacket, front suggestive abstract paintings, Craw- and back, and said, “This piece was ford spends most of her time outside too subtle, so we put it on the back. of language. “It’s like a retreat,” she The artist who made this (front cover) said, of her studio. “But the language image took a picture of a fire. Then he of poetry is closest to painting: you’re Jeffrey Brown Image provided burned the picture and took a picture getting words, standing in isolation, of the picture burning.” very chosen.” rading Secrets: Art–Po- During the panel discussion, the Mattraw called the trance-like "Tetry–Practice," was the focus veered toward an analysis of state she enters, while composing a “I’m ready for it.” public end-cap on a week-long visit images, often placing them in oppo- poem, “a slippery space.” For her, an afayette is going to the dogs. In of learning will be going on with to Saint Mary’s College by Jeffrey sition to words. Brown asked the image in a film or a conversation can Lwhat promises to be a howling- topics ranging from pet first aid, Brown, PBS NewsHour Chief Arts poets, Hillman, Jai, Kevin Simmonds trigger a life experience that projects good Saturday to remember, for the toxins, environmental hazards, Correspondent and his wife, interna- and Alexandra Mattraw, along with itself as words in a poem. first time ever, Lafayette is holding a even how to become a veterinarian tionally acclaimed artist, educator and visual artist Nori Hara and Crawford, The layering of different art party celebrating canines – from or vet technician and so much author, Paula Crawford. As Visiting at what point in the process they first forms, like music and dance, as mutts to purebreds at Dogtown more. Dogs will be allowed inside Woodrow Wilson Fellows, Brown thought about cover art. well as images and fonts for book Downtown. The tail wagging and the library and its classrooms dur- and Crawford led classes, workshops, “I don’t think about it until the covers, finds its way into the com- festive events for well-behaved furry ing veterinary presentations. panels and presentations aimed at ad- manuscript has been submitted. It has position or texture of the panel’s friends and, of course, their owners, Professional dogs will be doing dressing the relevancy of a liberal arts to rhyme with my idea of the book,” work, regardless of their resistance. happen this Saturday, April 12 from demonstrations throughout the event education. In the digital age and amid Hillman said. “It’s a parallel universe,” Crawford 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – service dogs, police dogs, dancing rapidly-changing cultural concerns, Simmonds said image ideas fol- claimed. Then, speaking about a The canine-centric fun kicks off at dogs, and even agility performances, discussions encompassed con- low titles and the title is “a little poem that was highly influential in 10 a.m. with a Grand Parade starting which might make an overweight sumerism, the role of an artist in pro- magic, a little confusion.” He works work she is preparing for an up- at Lafayette Plaza Park and continues basset hound a little jealous. moting and marketing his or her with Hara, who said he can see Sim- coming exhibit, she warned, “But I down Gold Gate Way to the Lafayette It’s a team effort to bring this all work, arts criticism, freedom of ex- monds’ ideas in his head and doesn’t don’t want a poem to be a caption Library. Well behaved dogs on leash together – sponsors include the City pression and how television’s inher- always read the poems themselves. for a painting. I like them to be near and under control by their owners are of Lafayette, the Chamber of Com- ently visual medium influences Mattraw mentioned not having each other. ” cordially invited to attend. There will merce, the Lafayette Library and broadcast journalism. input: occasions when an editor will An English teacher in the audi- also be dog competitions, outdoor Learning Center Foundation and the Brown opened himself to a choose the art for her book and she is ence asked how to answer his stu- demonstrations along with animal UC Davis School of Veterinary Med- “Turning the Tables: Your Chance to left only to hope it connects with the dents’ most frequent question, group representatives and adoptions. icine along with many others. Interview Jeffrey Brown,” session on work she has cherished and nurtured especially about poetry: “Why do we Fun competitions include best “The Chamber had wanted to do April 1 and participated as moderator into existence. have to read this?” they’ve asked. dog-owner team trick, hound and this for some time,” said Barbara in the poetry panel the following Naturally, Brown asked the writ- Mattraw, with 15 years of teach- owner couples that bare a ‘paws-itive’ Gilmore of the Chamber of Com- evening. ers how it felt to give up control of ing under her belt, tells her students: resemblance, ‘waggiest’ tail – whip- merce. When dedicated dog lover A poetry reading began the pro- their work. Simmonds admitted, he “Art, poetry and fiction are a reflec- pet good, and best dog costume. Mayor Don Tatzin outlined his gram, with opportunities for poets to “went nuts,” when he once asked to tion of life. Go with the flow. Be open What are you waiting for? ‘Schnau- agenda for 2014 it was the perfect explain the artwork adorning their have input on the jacket art and a pub- to weirdness.” zer’ chance to compete. connection. “Bring all my four books’ covers. The interplay between lisher told him, “We have people who And Hillman said she answers the Pooch parents will have an op- legged friends down to the Lafayette visuals – including images, and the do that.” question with a question: “I ask stu- portunity to learn the latest in ca- Library and Learning Center. Dogs graphic design of title treatments – Crawford broadened the discus- dents, which of you thinks in com- nine care from veterinary unite! My name is REX and I ap- and a collection’s content, was the pri- sion by delving into the complexity of plete sentences all day long?” she specialists from the renowned UC prove of this message,” joked Jay Lif- mary subject of discussion. combining – and separating – words said. “Modernist fragmentation Davis School of Veterinary Medi- son, executive director of the Jai Arun Ravine introduced her- and images. “I got a solid humanities wasn’t invented by James Joyce, it cine, along with the Bay Area’s Chamber. Your key to enjoyment is self, saying she preferred to be re- education, so when I came to arts was invented by the human mind. Po- SAGE Centers for Veterinary Spe- to simply show up. For more details, ferred to as “Jai,” or in the third school I was full of words. I worked etry is reality.” cialty and Emergency Care. Lots go to www.LLLCF.org/dogtown/. person as “they, their, them.” In- tensely involved in every aspect of Student Art and Poetry how and where the work is presented, Jai’s poems introduced stark images, Exhibition Opens like “Naked body through a frozen An exhibition, “Through Young Eyes: Art & Poetry from the River window,” and asked questions, like of Words Collection,” which features works by K-12 students from “What would you do, in a box by across the world will be on view Saturdays from 2 to 5 p.m. April yourself?” It’s a thinking person’s po- 12-26 at the Garage Gallery, a satellite of Berkeley Outlet (3110 etry: demanding attention and deny- Wheeler Street, Berkeley). River of Words is a project of the ing easy answers. And thought has Center for Environmental Literacy at Saint Mary's College of gone into the construction, not just of California. According to the SMC website, the artwork presented the poems, but of the paper they are in this show is the product of students of the River of Words K-12 printed upon. Using found objects, curriculum that reaches out to young people all over world, compiling rice paper, folding tiny engaging them in an exploration of their watersheds through treasures into miniature self-made inter-disciplinary (poetry, drawing, painting, science) place- books – or publishing in more tradi- based education. Through teacher training, publications, tional paperbound editions – Jai exhibitions, and advocacy, River of Words strives to inspire and proved literary art’s preciousness is empower future generations of informed and compassionate partly the tangible product, the precise earth stewards through hands-on, investigative and fun packaging, constructed to compli- experiences of the world around them. It was founded in 1995 ment and carry the language. by writer Pamela Michael and then-US Poet Laureate Robert Reach 60,000+ in Brenda Hillman, the Olivia C. Hass. An opening reception will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Filippi Professor of Poetry at Saint April 11 at the Garage Gallery. Winners’ work will be displayed at Lamorinda Advertise in Mary's, said she had written several the Saint Mary’s College Library beginning April 30. For volumes categorized under natural el- information, visit http://www.stmarys-ca.edu/through-young- Lamorinda Weekly ements, like wind and fire. Reading eyes-art-poetry-from-the-river-of-words-collection. Call 925-377-0977 today

26,000 copies delivered bi-weekly to Share Your Celebrations and Remembrances Lamorinda homes & businesses 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 Lamorinda who has passed, send a photo along with your text (up to 250 words) to [email protected], and include Local newspaper delivered to Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda “Celebrations and Remembrances” in the subject line. www.lamorindaweekly.com Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B7 OIS Production of Peter Pan Opens May 1 Submitted by Jeanette Lipp Need A Tutor? Club Z! 1-On-1 Tutoring In Your Home • All Subjects • PreK-Adult • Reading • Writing • Math • LD/ADD/ADHD • SAT/ACT Prep • Study Skills Program • Affordable Rates • Degreed Professionals • Flexible Schedules One FREE Session! 510-244-3637 925-478-4469 www.clubztutoring.com

“Disney’s Peter Pan Jr.” Crocodile Cast at Orinda Intermediate School Photo provided Brian Clark, Psy.D. rinda Intermediate School’s The score includes new arrange- The actors have brought incredible licensed clinical psychologist Bulldog Theater will present ments of classic Disney songs, such imagination and energy to their work. PSY 25198 O “Disney’s Peter its spring musical, as "Following the Leader," "You Can The beloved story features themes that ADOLESCENTS Pan Jr.” in early May at OIS. Based Fly," "The Second Star to the Right" each of them can relate to - appreciat- ADULTS · FAMILIES on the Disney film and J.M. Barrie's and "Yo Ho, A Pirate's Life for Me." ing your family, not wanting to grow enchanting play is a modern version The production is directed and up, finding your place in society. Our specializing in: of the timeless tale about a boy who produced by Bay Area Children’s audiences are in for quite a treat.” Achievement Pressure wouldn't grow up – with no flying re- Theatre as part of their youth educa- There are two casts, comprised of AD/HD quired. tion program. Rachel Robinson approximately 60 OIS students along Parenting Support In this tale, Wendy Darling loves serves as director with Megan Mc- with additional 13 OIS students serv- to tell stories to her brothers, Michael Grath as choreographer and Christina ing on tech crew. Performances will Anxiety 954 Risa Road · Lafayette and John. But when her father an- Martin as music director. In reference run May 1-3 at the OIS Bulldog The- School Stress (925) 385-8050 nounces she must move out of the to the production, Rachel Robinson ater. The performance lasts a total of Depression www.brianclarkpsyd.com nursery, Peter Pan comes to visit the notes, “I am so excited for the OIS 90 minutes, including one intermis- children and whisks them away to community to see our upcoming pro- sion. For show time information and Never Land. Their adventure intro- duction of Peter Pan! This classic tale to purchase tickets, please visit duces them to the Lost Boys, Mer- boasts flying heroes, mermaids, pirate www.showtix4u.com. Tickets are maids, Indians and even the infamous battles and more – anything and also available at the OIS theater one pirate, Captain Hook. everything that a child could dream of. half hour prior to show times. Two Local Students Advance to State Divorce and Family Law Geography Bee Finals Submitted by David SooHoo and Karen Severo The Law Offices of Jonathan D. Larose APC. cello Severo represented their A Family Law Firm schools April 4 at the state National Jonathan D. Larose Esq. MBA, Geographic Bee at California State Chelsea Jagar, Esq. Julia Bressman, Esq. University, Fresno. Out of the 2,000-plus winners of their individ- confidential consultations - learn more at jdlaroselaw.com ual schools only the top 100 ad- vanced to the finals. After winning 1660 Olympic Boulevard 39465 Paseo Padre Parkway their individual school bee, the stu- Suite 215 (Main Office), Suite 2400 dents took a qualifying test, which Walnut Creek, CA. 94596 Fremont, CA. 94538 they submitted to the National Ge- Tel: 866-585-6314 Tel: 510-659-6300 ographic Society. Fax: 510-659-8600 Fax: 510-659-8600 An example of a question stu- dents were asked included: What is the term for the triangular deposit of sediment sometimes found at the Samuel SooHoo with Geography mouth of a river – moraine or delta? Bee medals won in 2013 and 2014. Marcello is also known for his Photos provided musical talents, advancing to the GRADES K-12 regional level several times in the   #     #  PTA Reflections competition and      the state level one time for the same     competition. Marcello plays piano  !   "   in the Stanley Middle School Jazz Messengers band and plays the HOMEWORK HELP FOR ALL LEVELS keyboard for a local jazz group Flat Monthly Fee called the Dominant 7, comprised Drop-in any time, no scheduling needed! of four other Lafayette School Dis- trict students.  At State, Marcello answered  eight out of eight questions cor- Must present coupon. New students only. rectly in the preliminary round and Finish the Year Strong advanced to a tiebreaker round with and Excel on Your Math Tests! 3435 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette 27 out of 98 other kids. The state (Golden Gate Way at Mt. Diablo Blvd.) www.mathnasium.com winner received $100 and a trip to (925) 283-4200 Marcello Severo Washington D.C. where they will rinda Intermediate School represent California in the national Oeighth-grader Samuel finals at National Geographic Soci- SooHoo, who also qualified last ety headquarters May 19-21. The year and ended up placing in the national winner will receive a top 25 for California, and Stanley $50,000 college scholarship and Middle School sixth-grader Mar- lifetime membership in the society.

“Honestly, the Lamorinda Weekly is always the best source for our efforts. Everyone reads it, thoroughly! “ Lucy

Advertise in College Prep for Students (Grades 8-12) Lamorinda Weekly OPEN HOUSE APRIL 23RD FROM 7-9PM Call 925-377-0977 Still accepting applications for Fall 2014 (925) 254-7553 today WWW.ORINDAACADEMY.ORG “INSPIRING SUCCESS – FULFILLING POTENTIAL” Page: B8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 Los Perales Takes Second in Bay Area Chess Tournament Submitted by Jenny Clare he Los Perales Elementary Berkeley Chess School which runs TSchool chess team took home the LP chess after-school enrichment second place honors at the Berkeley class. Chess School Elementary School Tournament March 22 at Hillside Los Perales Chess Team School in Berkeley. One hundred and Arjun Chhabra (fifth Grade) fifty-seven students representing 44 Alex Clare (fifth Grade) schools from all over the Bay Area Jeremiah Minz (fifth Grade) competed in six games of chess dur- Hari Stoyanov (fifth Grade) ing six hours of play. Milan Stoyanov (second Grade) Los Perales' six-member team Delu Zhao (fifth Grade) was neck and neck with Marin Ele- mentary throughout the tournament, Top 10 Schools coming in only one half point behind. 1. Marin Elementary 20.0 (Albany) In addition, LP fifth-grader, Hari 2. Los Perales 19.5 (Moraga) Stoyanov, came in first place overall, 3. Beach Elementary 18.5 (Piedmont) the only student to win all six games 4. Wildwood Elementary 18.0 (Piedmont) for a perfect score. Other Lamorinda 5. Buena Vista Elem 17.5 (Walnut Creek) elementary schools in attendance 6. Cornell Elementary 16.0 (Albany) were Glorietta (which also finished in 7. Kensington Elementary 16.0 (Kensington) the top 10), Burton Valley, Del Rey, 8. Ocean View Elementary 15.0 (Albany) and Rheem. 9. Glorietta 14.0 (Orinda) The Los Perales chess team is 10. St. Philip Neri 12.0 (Alameda) comprised of students involved in the Photo provided THE APP RAP By Alex Pawlakos App: Mr. Number by WhitePages For: All Android phones Price: Free Second Semester Senioritis: Is It Real? By Caie Kelley here are many apps that work Calls and texts from private or un- Ton both Android and iPhone or known numbers can be intercepted he references to "senioritis" began as a freshman, later, finish up on last minute work, and pursue activities at least you can find similar apps that automatically. The contents of blocked Twhen I noticed the senior parking lot of my high outside of school like yoga or painting that a regular high accomplish the same task for either texts can be trashed or the content can school increasingly empty on Monday mornings and school schedule doesn't allow for." Though the word has operating system. However, if you be saved. Another nice feature is the heard the word tossed around in the hallways during a negative connotation among school administrators and want or need state-of-the-art number free Caller ID lookup that Mr. Number passing periods. I watched the eldest members of my teachers, it seems that many Lamorinda teens are using (call) blocking, it is best to use an An- performs when you receive a call from public speaking team relax a bit more as they looked their second-semester senior status for pursuits that ben- droid phone. Unfortunately, the a business line offering information forward to college and moving away from home. The efit their mental, physical, and emotional health. iPhone operating systems are not con- about the company. Most everyone time to kick back and be free seemed so far away–yet Of course, others disagree. Senior Ben Chiu stated, ducive to most call blocking tech- wants to block a call or text from time as I write now, four years later, I am in the middle of my "Senioritis is a falsehood. It is self-perpetuated and used niques. For Android users who desire to time and now with an Android final semester of high school, and the question has risen as an excuse, but the reality is that falling behind in to block unwanted calls and texts, do smartphone, it’s a snap with the Mr. again – is "senioritis" real? school is not a good idea. My teachers have not eased reverse lookup for mobile and landline Number app. For many, the answer is a resounding yes. On the up, and our workload is just as much as it was before." numbers, stop spam and telemar- last day of first semester finals, Miramonte High School Whether seniorities is a myth or a fact, to manage these keters, and much more, there is a great senior David Ellman said that in the next couple of last couple of months, Lamorinda seniors need to bal- app called Mr. Number. According to months, he would be taking every opportunity to not do ance a desire for ultimate relaxation with the reality that industry publications, this app is one “busy” work. "Instead of cramming for standardized we still need to show up and work diligently to graduate of the best and most popular Android tests, I've spent my weekends driving down to the beach, with grace! apps, and is considered to be the most exploring new parts of the Bay Area, and watching new A swimmer and powerful call blocker and text blocker TV shows, like ‘House of Cards.’" Fellow classmate pianist, Caie Kel- currently available. Mr. Number is Margot Odell agreed, saying, "These last couple of ley, a senior at Mi- simple to use and allows you do to a months are about relishing the little time we have still ramonte High variety of things to filter incoming Alex Pawlakos enjoys biking, left at home. For me that means working less on the ac- School, is an officer calls and texts. For example, calls can weightlifting, and tutoring in his tivities I had to do for college or for school, and more of Club Be the Star be blocked from entire area codes, se- spare time. He is a reporter on Ex- on crafting and other do-it-yourself hobbies that I really You Are!® and the press Yourself!™ Teen Radio. Alex lect businesses, individual persons, enjoy." What’s Poppin’ re- is an economics major at UC and numbers you don’t recognize. Many seniors have dropped their most difficult class porter on Express Berkeley. to ensure less stressful final months. As one friend ex- Yourself!™ Teen plained, "With my extra free period, I can sleep in a little Radio. Submit stories and story ideas to Teen Scene is YOUR voice. If you have something to say or have writing skills and want to be part of our Teen Scene team, email our Teen Coach, Cynthia Brian, [email protected]. [email protected] The opinions expressed in Teen Scene are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly.

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Image provided Captain America steps up his game! Winter Soldier. A bit of history: Like most of the Marvel char- A few new characters are introduced in “Cap- acters, Captain America did not get his start in tain America: The Winter Soldier.” First is Sam Wil- comic books. He was born in a 1944 movie serial – son, or Falcon, played solidly by Anthony Mackie Buttered Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Photo Susie Iventosch short films shown in movie theaters before the fea- (“The Hurt Locker,” “Million Dollar Baby”). y cooking buddy, Jeff, sent me recipe called to roll the dough in the ture film with a cliffhanger each week to draw more Mackie’s portrayal of Falcon makes you anticipate Ma recipe for buttered pecan toasted buttered pecans, but I just people to the theater. Fast-forward to 2014 and Cap- his return in future Captain America and Avengers cookies from a cookbook called Best mixed them right into the dough, tain America is still attracting moviegoers to the the- films. Screen legend Robert Redford is added to of Country Cookies. Apparently, which is much easier and just as tasty. atres – grossing over $96.2 million last weekend in the cast as Alexander Price, a friend and mentor to Taste of Home Magazine sponsored I also substituted the self-rising flour the United States. The film was made on an esti- Nick Fury – or is he? It was great to see Redford a cookie recipe contest in 1999 to find with unbleached flour, plus baking mated $170,000 budget! take on a supporting role; in a recent interview he "the best" cookie and published a powder and a little salt. Chris Evans returns as Steve Rogers, aka Cap- stated that he accepted the role so his grandchildren book featuring more than 250 of the Anyone who loves buttered pecan tain America, for the third time on the big screen. could finally see him in a movie. recipes submitted. ice cream will enjoy these cookies. In This time he is struggling to adapt to modern civi- “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” is not When I finally got around to fact, they'd be delicious with a bowl lization but must deal with the past, which, of just another super hero movie with special effects making these cookies, I thought of buttered pecan ice cream and a course, has returned to haunt him. Oscar nominee that will blow your mind away. It has a solid story- they'd be delicious with chocolate spoonful of hot chocolate sauce! Samuel L. Jackson (“Pulp Fiction”) returns as Nick line that will hold anyone’s interest throughout the chips ... and they were! The original Fury, the World War II hero and present day super 2 hours and 16 minutes and is rated PG-13, for vi- spy who heads up the S.H.I.E.L.D. Jackson is on olence and language. top of his game and his presence on the screen is Derek Zemrak is a film critic, film producer and Buttered Pecan dominating. Four-time Golden Globe nominee founder of the California Independent Film Festi- Scarlett Johansson (“Lost in Translation”) once val. You can follow Derek on Twitter @zemrak for Chocolate Chip Cookies again assumes the role of the sexy Natasha Ro- the latest Hollywood news. Derek can be heard manoff, also known as Black Widow, and Sebastian every Friday on KAHI 950AM on the Poppoff (Makes 3 dozen ... or so) Stan (“Black Swan”) returns as Bucky Barnes, the Show. INGREDIENTS

1 3/4 cups chopped pecans Budget Basics for New College Graduates 1 tablespoon butter By Elizabeth LaScala, PhD 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened to room temperature ere’s a question I’m often percent of your pretax income on might ask for a cosigner on the lease. 1 cup (packed) light brown sugar Hasked by new or soon to be housing and loan payments (this It is also common for landlords to ask 1 egg college graduates: “I am looking for amounts to a loan payment of $280 a for your first month’s rent plus a se- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract a job. Can you help me figure out month). For a good resource on stu- curity deposit equal to two months’ 2 cups flour how much income I will need to pay dent loans and loan calculators that rent. Gas and electric companies re- 3 teaspoons baking powder bills and start to reduce my student estimate income needed to pay off a quire a security deposit as well. Your 1 teaspoon salt loan debt?” The answer to this ques- particular loan amount visit landlord must refund your deposit 1 cup chocolate chips (I used half dark chocolate and half semi- tion will depend on your net income http://www.finaid.org/calculators/loa when you move out, minus unpaid sweet chocolate) after taxes, rental costs for your resi- npayments.phtml. rent, and a basic cleaning charge. dence, and the cost of living in your An example will help make these They can take money to repair any DIRECTIONS area. In California, you can count on costs clear: If you make $48,000 a damage as well so take photos when about 30 percent of your paycheck year or $4,000 a month before taxes, you move in so you can prove the Place chopped pecans and 1 tablespoon butter in a baking being withheld for federal and state you should plan on spending up to prior condition of the premises when dish. Bake at 325 degrees for about 5-7 minutes, or until income tax, social security, Medicare $1,320 on rent plus basic utilities you move out. Finally, figure on toasted and beginning to brown, stirring frequently, so as to and California State Disability Insur- (about 33 percent of pretax income). moving costs – out of college (or your brown evenly. Remove from oven and cool. Increase oven ance. You can get an estimate of these If you have student debt, you should parents’ home) into your new home. temperature to 350 degrees. costs by working with the paycheck plan to spend no more than $1,600 a Now that you have your college de- calculator (visit month (about 40 percent of your pre- gree, welcome to the real world! In a large bowl, beat 1 cup butter with brown sugar until http://www.adp.com/tools-and-re- tax income) on housing and loan pay- creamy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Stir in baking powder, salt and sources/calculators-and-tools/payroll- ments combined. In this example, flour. Mix well. Add chocolate chips and buttered pecans. calculators/salary-paycheck-calculato your after tax income with be about r.aspx) and experimenting with de- $2,800 and after rent, utilities and stu- Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto greased baking sheet. Bake at ductions for dependents, retirement dent loan are paid, only about $1,200 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until desired doneness! contributions, health insurance premi- will be available to pay for food, ums and more. clothing, transportation, phone usage, Susie Iventosch is the author of Tax Bites and With regard to household rents, and insurance. This is a pretty tight Tasty Morsels, which can be found at Across the most sources agree that you should budget. Way in Moraga, www.amazon.com, and spend no more than one-third of your Before shopping for a place to www.taxbites.net. Susie can be reached at gross pay (pretax earnings) on rent rent, be ready for landlords to check [email protected]. This recipe can be found on our website: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp- your credit report. If you pay them a ww.lamorindaweekly.com. If you would like to share dyn/content/article/2006/05/19/AR20 fee to check your credit, you are enti- Elizabeth LaScala, Ph.D. is an your favorite recipe with Susie please contact her by independent college advisor who 06051900643.html. This figure in- tled to a copy of the report. Remem- email or call our office at (925) 377-0977. draws upon 25 years of higher cludes basic utilities like gas and elec- ber that it is illegal to discriminate on education experience to help guide tric. Whatever’s left after this is the basis of sex, race, religion, sexual and support the college admissions available to pay for food, clothing, orientation, or marital status, but process for students and their families. You can find most of the recipes transportation, phone usage, and in- under some conditions a landlord can Dr. LaScala is a member of NACAC, WACAC and HECA. She can be surance … and, of course, your stu- require that you prove you make a contacted at (925) 891-4491 or published in the Lamorinda Weekly dent loans. Including loan payments certain amount of yearly income be- [email protected]. Visit the most common recommendation is fore renting to you. In addition, if this www.doingcollege.com for more on our website Click Food tab to plan on spending no more than 40 is your first time renting, the landlord information about her services. Business Directory

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Some say spring hasn’t completely sprung until they see small children dressed in pastels screaming up grassy slopes in search of perfectly decorated – or even better, chocolate filled – eggs to fill their baskets. Fortunately, * Lamorinda has plenty of events to celebrate the season You’re Invited To Take a Photo for the very young and the very young at heart. Children under 8 years old can hunt for the perfect egg with the Easter Bunny at the Moraga Junior Women’s Club Spring Egg Hunt from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 12 at Moraga So Bring Your Camera! Commons Park. Kids can choose from one of two scheduled egg hunts at 10 or 11 a.m., in addition to Saturday, April 19th 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. enjoying games, bounce houses, face painting, crafts and pictures with the Bunny himself. Tickets are $10 In the suite between Tuesday Morning and Nation’s Giant Hamburgers and can be purchased at the Moraga Parks and Recreation office at the Hacienda de las Flores or Easter Clowns Easter Fairy Balloon Art online at www.moragajuniors.org. More bunny fun can be found on Saturday, April 19 at five additional activities scheduled in Lamorinda:

The second annual Spring Free Family Fun Day from 2 to 5 p.m. at Orinda’s Theatre Square will be packed *With your Rheem Valley Shopping Center full of activities for kids and adults of all ages, receipts totaling $25 or more OR go online to www.rheemvalley.net to print out the coupon including a rock climbing wall, a petting zoo and pony for a FREE photo session with the Easter Bunny. rides, a jumpy house, and incredible performances by (While supplies last) Miramonte High School’s a cappella groups. For Visit us online at www.rheemvalley.net Rheem Blvd. at Moraga Rd. in Moraga information, visit www.orindatheatresquare.com. In Lafayette, enjoy a pancake breakfast, egg hunt, live show and more at the Lafayette Community Center Foundation’s Bunny Brunch from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Lafayette Community Center Live Oak HOPONOVERTOTHEATRESQUARE Room. Tickets are $9 at the event, or online until April 18 at www.LafayetteRec.org, until sold out. For information call (925) 284-2232.

SATURDAY If you’re looking for other sweet events, how about APRIL 19 bringing the family to the Lafayette Rotary’s Candy 2-5PM Scramble, which will be held downtown at 10 a.m. April 19 at the Lafayette Plaza Park at the corner of Moraga Road and Mt. Diablo Boulevard? The park ROCK CLIMBING lawn will be covered with candy for kids ages 2-8 to put WALL in their baskets; the youngest are always given extra time to get their share, and the Bunny will be there to PETTING ZOO take pictures with the kids. Or kids are welcome to take PONY RIDES part in the Rotary Club of Orinda’s annual Spring Egg Hunt at 11 a.m. April 19 at the Orinda Community BOUNCY HOUSE Center Park at 28 Orinda Way. The lawn will be (STARTS AT NOON) divided into egg hunts for various age groups, ensuring FACE PAINTING age-appropriate challenges. You can get more information by calling the Orinda Community Center PHOTO BOOTH MEMORIES at (925) 254-2445.

MIRAMONTE Looking for another great photo opportunity with the HIGH SCHOOL A CAPPELLA Easter Bunny? Hop over to the Rheem Valley PERFORMANCES Shopping Center at Rheem Boulevard and Moraga Road in Moraga, in the suite between Tuesday Morning and Nation’s Giant Hamburgers, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 19 where children can not only get a picture with the bunny himself, but can enjoy balloon art, see an FREE FAMILY FUN EVENT Easter fairy or even an Easter clown. Be sure to bring SECOND Spring has made its big debut, and what better your camera. Photos are available to customers with ANNUAL way to celebrate than with an activity or two. Make receipts showing purchases of $25 or more, or you can SPRING sure to stop by Theatre Square where there’s plenty print a coupon for a free photo session with the Easter of fun to share! Kids and grown-ups of all ages will Bunny by going to www.rheemvalley.net. EVENT delight in all the family fun that is sure to leave your J. Wake Spring cheery and bright! orindatheatresquare.com Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B11 Lamorinda’s Specialties of the House Local Restaurateurs and Chefs Share What’s Hot By Amanda Kuehn HOLY WEEK SERVICES from Chow in Lafayette, which has PALM SUNDAY, APRIL 13 been a favorite eating space for years, 8:15 a.m. Traditions Worship with a rotating menu of sustainable, 10:45 a.m. Celebrations Worship local, organic, biodyanmic dishes. Childcare throughout the morning They are known for their local wines, MAUNDY THURSDAY, APRIL 17 featuring vintages you can’t find at any grocery store or wine shop. Man- 7:00 p.m. ager Joseph Pisahl’s favorite dish is GOOD FRIDAY, APRIL 18 the fish tacos. “We use sustainable 12 Noon & 7:00 p.m. cod or mahi when it’s in season, and add layers of cabbage, chipotle cream EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 20 cheese, sliced avocado and salsa 8:15 a.m. Traditions Worship wrapped in a corn tortilla.” Chow’s 9:30 a.m. Blended Worship most popular dish, though, is their 10:45 a.m. Celebrations Worship Thai noodles, an Asian fusion of Coffee Fellowship and Childcare Thai-style linguine noodles with steak throughout the morning or chicken finished with a lime citrus Table 24’s off-menu pork chop with roasted herbed russet potatoes and a miso sauce, “There’s a little bit of a Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church spicy kick,” said Pisahl, who highly citrusy sweet Pink Lady apple-pear sauce Photo Amanda Kuehn 433 Moraga Way, Orinda recommends both dishes. Chow is lo- here is a lot of good food to be and gorgonzola cheeses, pine nuts and cated at 53 Lafayette Circle. For in- 925-254-3422 had in the Lamorinda area. So pancetta served over penne pasta.” T formation, call (925) 962-2469 or go much so that making a decision can Pennini’s is located at 1375 Moraga www.holyshepherd.org to www.chowfoodbar.com. be difficult. Even if you’ve narrowed Way Suite D in Moraga. Call (925) Bon appetite! your choices to a type of food or a 376-1515 or visit www.penninis.com particular location, how do you de- for info. cide between caramelized onions or The antithesis of most things apple-smoked bacon, chocolate “foodie,” the Village Inn Cafe in ganache or passion fruit-infused Orinda specializes in “great, recog- Swiss buttercream? Sometimes it’s nizable food for breakfast and lunch.” best to let the venue choose for you, If he had to narrow it down to one to leave it to the experts to give you specialty, owner and cook Kurt Bel- their best. lows would recommend his corned In upcoming issues, Lamorinda beef hash. “I start with fresh beef Weekly will be taking you on a tasting brisket and cure it in brine for at least adventure, featuring specialties of the 25 days to make the corned beef. The house at some of the area’s popular brisket is then slow-cooked for five restaurants. The following is a sam- hours before it is cubed and mixed pling of some of the personal fa- with potatoes to form the hash.” It’s a vorites you’ll find at just a few: popular item. “We currently use about After 11 years of serving tried and 100 lbs. of beef brisket a week just for true favorites to the people of Moraga. the hash,” said Bellows. The hash can Ristorante Amoroma has changed up be ordered with array of choices in- its authentic Italian menu. Partner cluding eggs, pancakes and waffles. Hafiz Haidari suggested that a first- The Village Inn Cafe is located at 204 time visitor try the homemade ravioli Village Square. For info, call (924) stuffed with ricotta and spinach and 254-6080 or visit www.orindacof- covered in homemade marinara, or feeshop.com. the seafood linguine – a plate of hand- Theatre Square, the “restaurant made linguine noodles sheltering row” of Orinda, boasts specialties of clams, mussels, shrimp, calamari and all kinds. At Table 24, the buzzwords lobster, all bathed in a fresh tomato are quality, consistency and commu- garlic and white wine and saffron nity. Under new director of opera- sauce. “My partner’s dad was a chef tions, Rickey Dobbs and new in Rome,” said Haidari. “He has a executive chef Jason Yerbick, what cookbook we sell here and we [get] was already good is getting even bet- all of our stuff from that book.” Spe- ter. “I love food. I love fresh,” said cialty of the house? Fresh, authentic Yerbick. “From sliders to a nice piece Italian. Ristorante Amoroma is lo- of fish, we make good comfort food, cated at 360 Park St. in Moraga. For just a little stepped up.” Dobbs information, call (925) 377-7662 or agreed. “In today’s food culture, the go to www.amoroma1.com. general public cooks a lot more. We When asked to recommend a need to do a step above what you house favorite at Pennini’s Pizza & might be comfortable doing your- Pasta, front house manager Matthew self,” Dobbs said. A good example of Poirer likes to give his patrons op- this is Table 24’s pork chop, an off- tions. “We’re most known for our Fri- menu special glazed in a Grand day and Saturday night prime rib Marnier marinade and served with special,” he said. The rub, created by roasted asparagus drizzled in a bal- executive chef Patrick Vahey, is key. samic reduction, roasted herbed russet “It has the secret ingredients to flavor potatoes and a citrusy sweet Pink the prime rib – herbs, spices and some Lady apple-pear sauce. Another Table dijon mustard. [Vahey] lets it mari- 24 special is the salted caramel pud- nade and then puts it in the oven.” The ding. With real whipped cream and prime rib is served with seasonal veg- flecks of Hawaiian black salt, it’s a gies and a choice of garlic mashed po- creamy sweet treat that will always be tatoes, red baby potato cake, polenta on the menu. Table 24 is located at 2 cake, or rice pilaf. Poirer’s personal Theatre Square, Suite 153, in Orinda. favorite, though, is the Tre Formaggi For information, call (925) 254-0124 (three cheese) pasta. “It’s a cream or go to www.table24orinda.com. sauce pasta, with Asiago, parmesan A final recommendation comes

Easter Sunday is an Join Us For especially exciting time at Willow Spring Church, EASTER SERVICES and we’d love it if you’d join us! Sunday, April 20th We have special plans for Children’s Carnival ...... 9:00 ‘til 1:00 uplifting music, fun Free Breakfast ...... 9:00 activities for kids, and a Easter Egg Hunt ...... 10:00 relevant message celebrating the greatest act Children’s Worship Service ...... 10:45 in the history of human Adult Worship Service ...... 10:45 events. Bring your whole Discover Jesus for Yourself—“Go Deeper” family and receive a fresh Friendly, Authentic Community dose of hope in your life. Fun Games & Bounce Houses We look forward to seeing you at Willow Spring: Lamorinda’s hometown 925-376-3550 community church! www.willowspringchurch.net Willow Spring Church of Moraga 1689 School Street • Moraga Page: B12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 Not to be missed Not to be missed Lamorinda’s SMC Creative Writing Reading Series more! The event will include a reading ART will feature poet, painter and translator by special guest, best-selling children's Religious Services Norma Cole at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, author, Mitali Perkins. There is a $10 cost Making a Giant Ichthyosaur - April 9 in the Soda Center, Claeys per person to attend. Registration forms Lafayette resident Kris Vagner will Lounge. “Win These Posters and Other will be available online at www.mvpcto- present a slide show on the logistics and Unrelated Prizes Inside” is her most re- day.org until April 21. Moraga Valley adventures of building the Ichthyosaur cent book of poetry. She teaches at the Presbyterian Church is located in Mor- Puppet Project for the Burning Man fes- University of San Francisco. aga at 10 Moraga Valley Lane. tival and the Nevada Discovery Museum at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 10 at Our Authors and Athletes Family Series CELEBRATE NATURE Savior's Lutheran Church 1035 Carol presents Kristi Yamaguchi, Olympian, Lane, Lafayette. This event is free and athlete, artist, author, philanthropist, wife Moraga Beautiful will be held rain or open to the public. and mother from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Fri- shine from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, day, April 11 in the Community Hall of April 12 at Rancho Laguna Park. Volun- Lafayette Art Gallery’s new exhibi- the Lafayette Library and Learning Cen- teers should wear old clothes for weeding tion, “Location – Location – Location!” ter. Yamaguchi will discuss her recent and the beautification of the park picnic through May 3. “Location” may be the travels to Sochi, as well as her inspira- benches. The Town will supply gloves, rule of real estate but what does it mean tional work to improve childhood liter- brushes and stain. Individuals and groups to the artists at the Lafayette Art Gallery? acy. KPIX 5 sports director Dennis welcome! It means the gallery has a new location O'Donnell will lead the discussion. Yam- with almost twice the space, three times aguchi will sign books after the program. For those of us who love our walks on the windows and light, and an artistic Mulholland Ridge, mark your calendars heritage at The Forge, built on Mt. Dia- The April 21 speaker for the Moraga for the beautiful Mulholland Ride event blo Boulevard by the noted metal artist Women’s Society will be Kent Long, to help protect this natural area from 9 Carl Jennings in 1946. president of the Friends of the Joaquin a.m. to noon Saturday, April 12. Let’s Moraga Adobe, who will explain the show the Town of Moraga our support Saint Mary’s College Museum of Art mission of this group, their goals and the for maintaining Moraga’s only preserve! The Orinda – four exhibitions now on view. From progress made with J&J Ranch develop- Community Church Swords to Plowshares: Metal Trench Art ers in acquiring the Adobe and 2.3 sur- With the assistance from a couple of from World War One; Songs of the Pa- rounding acres. This meeting will be held members from its environmental club, An Open and Affirming Congregation of the United Church of Christ triot: How Music Helped Win World War at the Holy Trinity Cultural Center on Miramonte High School will be hosting 10 Irwin Way, Orinda | 925.254.4906 | www.orindachurch.org One; Malcolm Lubliner: The Automo- School Street, Moraga and the presenta- a community talk-back, “Our Future: “No matter who you are, wherever you are on life’s tive Landscape; and William Keith: Na- tion will take place from 11 a.m. to noon. Greening Miramonte and Beyond,” con- journey, you are welcome here!” ture’s Tranquil Splendor. Open 11 a.m. to Admission is free and refreshments are cerning the environment at 3:15 p.m. on Join us Sundays at 10:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. provided. For more info, call Susan Wednesday, April 16. Tips about how Sunday School 10:00 a.m For info, call (925)-631-4379 or visit Sperry at (925) 376-3053. improve individuals can improve carbon stmarys-ca.edu/museum. Admission: footprint will be offered in a relaxed fash- free to K-12 graders; $5 adults. Free “Off Balance: Gait and Balance - Dis- ion. St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church parking. (See related story page B5) orders Affecting Your Daily Life.” As A Loving Community part of a free lecture series, Valerie Clean up Orinda and beautify the Moraga Art Gallery’s current show, Watase, PT, owner and director of community on Saturday, April 19. Sunday Services: 8 and 10 AM “Illuminated by Nature”, featuring Lafayette Physical Therapy, will discuss Check in starting 9 a.m. at Orinda Li- In-church Youth Zone, 10 AM Nursery Childcare paintings by Kerima Swain and Karen injury prevention, fitness, and other re- brary Plaza. First 300 volunteers receive Kramer will run through May 31. The 682 Michael Lane, Lafayette, 284-7420, www.stanselms.ws lated topics from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, a free T-shirt. Report back to Library Gallery is open from noon to 5 p.m. April 22. Seating for lectures is limited: Plaza after project completion from Wednesdays - Sundays, and is located at call (925) 284-6150 to RSVP and reserve 11:30 a.m. to noon for pizza and celebra- 522 Center St., Rheem Valley Shopping your seat. For info, visit www.Lafayet- tion. Lend a hand, we need your help! To Lafayette United Methodist Church Center, Moraga. For info, visit moraga- tePT.com. sign up go to www.orindafoundation.org 955 Moraga Rd., Lafayette, gallery.com. and click on the Volunteer tab or email 284-4765, [email protected] Lafayette resident Wei-Tai Kwok will [email protected]. Worship Sunday 10 am MUSIC provide an update on climate change Children/Youth Sunday School Sunday 10 am findings and answer questions on that Join the National Park Service (NPS) Youth Fellowship Sunday 6 pm WomenSing– Upper Voiced Choirs topic during a presentation at 7 p.m. Fri- in celebrating 100 years of John Muir’s Festival “Treble Voices Now” April 11- day, April 25, at Lafayette Christian conservation legacy during the annual 12 at the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church (Disciples of Christ). A vice pres- Earth Day and John Muir’s Birthday Church. Experience first-hand the process ident of NRG Residential Solar Solu- event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday,  SundaySund Worship, 9:00 & 11:00 AM, of creating and refining a new choral tions, Kwok also is a member of the April 26 at the John Muir National His- with programs for 3-mos.-12th grade. piece. This inaugural festival will offer in- Climate Reality Project. Kwok will show toric Site (NHS) in Martinez. Participate vited treble-voiced choirs the unique op- updated slides from the Academy Award- in fun activities for all ages to commem-  Seedlings Preschool, M-F. portunity to join the process of fine-tuning winning documentary while describing orate Muir’s legacy and the 50th anniver-  their own contemporary repertoire. For climate change facts, the scientific con- sary of the park’s establishment in 1964. Something for Everyone, info, visit www.womensing.org. speakers, small groups, classes, sensus on today’s challenges, and the Special guest speaker Bruce Hamilton, youth groups, mission trips, more! consequences of ignoring the man-made deputy executive director of the Sierra THEATER difficulties to achieving clean air. Club, will give the keynote address.

LAFAYETTE-ORINDA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH DVC Drama Presents – “Noises Off,” KIDS, PARENTS & TEENS Bring the family from 1 to 4 p.m. Sun- directed By Ed Trujillo March 28 See more at LOPC.org day, April 27 for delightful adventures through April 13. Check website for Start warming up your voices now – under the oak trees. Congressman exact times and dates. For tickets, call Lamorinda Idol auditions are just George Miller is our honored guest of the (925) 969-2358 or visit www.dvc- around the corner. K-12 students living day and Chester Miner, Elder of the ORINDA CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH drama.net. DVC Drama is located at 321 or attending school in the Lamorinda Cherokee Nation, will open with a tribute 24 Orinda Way (next to the Library) - 254-4212 Golf Club Rd, Pleasant Hill, with free area may audition for a chance to be a to nature. Come enjoy delicious food, parking for all performances. Sunday Service and Sunday School 10 - 11 am Lamorinda Idol finalist. Auditions run music, creek explorations, games, nature May 15-17. Visit the Orinda Arts Coun- walks, arts and crafts and more, 350 Informal Wednesday Meeting 7:30 - 8:30 pm Role Players Ensemble presents Reading Room/Bookstore M - F 11 - 4; Sat 11 – 2 cil’s website at http://orindaarts.org/lam- Camino Pablo Rd., Orinda. Free. Visit Gilbert and Sullivan’s “Ruddigore.” orinda-idol/audition-information to sign fwrna.org to enter the photo contest for a www.christianscienceorinda.org Combine a witch’s curse, a haunted cas- up for auditions between April 1-30. chance to win one of many prizes. tle and a chorus of professional brides- maids, and you have a comic feast for the "Girls in Engineering, Computer Sci- Lafayette will host its 9th Annual senses. In this innovative take on “Rud- ence and STEM Careers." Margaret Earth Day Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 digore Castle” residents, both living and Cortes MIT Recruiter and Alexa p.m. Sunday, April 27 at the Lafayette Li- dead, fill the stage with delightful music, Krakaris of Facebook will speak from 7 brary and Learning Center, 3491 Mt. Di- Worship the Lord! witty dialogue and wacky characters. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 15 at the Mira- ablo Blvd. With the worst drought in Show runs April 18-May 10; 8 p.m. Fri- monte Library. Students and parents California’s recorded history, the theme Sundays, 9 & 10:30am day, Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday at the Vil- come together to learn about STEM (Sci- of this year’s festival is water conserva- lage Theatre, 233 Front Street, Danville. ence Technology Engineering and Math) tion. Environment-related businesses, Tickets: $20-28: online at www.Role- careers for women. Both Cortes and non-profit organizations and vendors will PlayersEnsemble.com; at Danville Com- Krakaris will share their personal stories fill Golden Gate Way. Buy starter plants Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church munity Center or call (925) 314-3400. about entering a male dominated field for your spring garden. Families can par- 10 Moraga Valley Lane, Moraga CA and provide insight into summer enrich- ticipate in interactive activities from the XXXNWQDUPEBZPSH
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 Mistaken identity, intrigue, unre- ment, career opportunities and helpful Lawrence Hall of Science and Lindsay quited love, cross dressing. No, it is not tips and answer questions at the end of Wildlife Museum. There will be live the latest reality show; it is William their presentation. music throughout the day. Back by pop- Shakespeare's comedy, “Twelfth Night.” ular demand will be a bounce house for And it is coming to Acalanes High The Lafayette Rotary Club is pleased kids! New this year, I:CO School. The play runs April 30, May 1, to announce the date for the “Annual (http://www.ico-spirit.com/en/home- 66 St. Stephen’s Drive, Orinda 2, and 3, with a 7 p.m. curtain (house Egg Hunt.” This event is open to all chil- page/) and H&M will sponsor a clothing- 254-3770. www.ststephensorinda.org opens at 6:30 p.m.). Tickets are $10 gen- dren ages 2-8 at 10 a.m. Saturday, April recycling collection site at the festival. Sunday 8am, 10am & eral; $7 students. Available at the door. 19 at Lafayette Plaza (corner of Mt. Di- Bring your stained, torn, or old clothing 5:30p.m. Casual Eucharist All proceeds benefit the Acalanes Per- ablo Blvd. and Moraga Rd). (See story that is not suitable for donation or re-use, forming Arts Boosters-Drama. and list of other Easter events on page and it will be recycled into new fabric or B10) household items. WILLOW SPRING CHURCH “Disney’s Peter Pan JR” at Orinda In- Your Hometown Community Church termediate School at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Seedling's Preschool 16th Annual OTHER Try Something New With Your Whole Family This Week May 1 and 2, and at 3 and 7 p.m. May 3 Wheel Day for kids who love anything Sundays: 9:00am Adult Sunday School Classes at the OIS Bulldog Theater, 80 Ivy Drive, to do with wheels from 10 a.m. to noon DVC Emeritus College provides af- 10:00am Pre-Service Fellowship (Free Coffee & Bagels) Orinda. Ticket prices range from $3 - $10 10:45am Contemporary Worship Service Saturday, April 26 at LOPC - Lafayette fordable classes for people 50 and over. and are available for advance purchase at Orinda Presbyterian Church 49 Knox Dr, Courses are held at JFK University, 11:15am Childrens' Church www.showtix4u.com. Tickets will also Wednesdays: 10:00am Community Bible Study Lafayette. The free event promises nu- Rossmoor, and Diablo Valley College. be sold at the door. (See story page B7) merous vehicles from construction, pub- There are some interesting, thought pro- 1689 School Street, Moraga (925)376-3550 www.willowspringchurch.net lic safety, public transport and local voking classes starting in April and May LECTURE & LITERATURE businesses. They will all be there for a as well as tours of the California Railroad viewing, climbing and a horn honking Museum and the Ruth Bancroft Gardens, Moraga Movers and the Moraga Li- good time! Please consider bringing a plus a hike of the Marin Headlands. To Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church brary present Book Talking at 2 p.m. non-perishable food item to be donated sign up by credit card call the Emeritus Wednesday, April 9. Join C.W. Gortner to Monument Crisis Center. Office at (925) 969-4316 or mail in your 433 Moraga Way, Orinda, 254-3422 as he discusses his wonderful historical www.holyshepherd.org registration with a check. Registration novel, “The Queen’s Vow,” about Is- Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church forms available through the Emeritus Of- 8:15 a.m. Traditional Worship abella of Castile. It tells of her dramatic invites you to its second annual Tea fice. You can view the entire 2014 Spring 9:40 a.m. Education for all ages ascent to power and who irrevocably Party from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Brochure online at www.dvc.edu/emeri- 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship changed the future of Spain and the April 26. Moms, grandmas, and pre- tus. Coffee Fellowship at 9:15 and 11:45 a.m. world (remember Columbus?). As al- Childcare available for ages 5 and younger school-age daughters of the Lamorinda ways, you need not have read the book community are invited to enjoy tea, ... continued on next page to enjoy this fascinating discussion. scones, sweets, crafts, story time and Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B13 Not to be missed Not to be missed Not to be missed Russ Aubrey will discuss his wander- Area residents who own classic cars are The Orinda Library, Parks and Welfare, attendees may try out free Tai OTHER ... continued ings through Cuba and will discuss the invited to participate in the 6th annual Recreation Department and Friends of Chi, line dancing, or yoga sessions. For culture and history of this historic island Moraga Classic Car Show, which takes the Orinda Library continue their gentle more information, visit www.friendsoft- Free Movie Night at the Orinda The- at The Widowed Persons Support place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, prodding of Orindans to embrace more heorindalibrary.org; or contact Beth Gir- atre - Alfred Hitchcock's "The Trouble monthly meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, May 10 as part of the 2014 Moraga Com- balanced lifestyles with another Health shman, head librarian: with Harry" at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 10. April 21 at the Lafayette-Orinda Presby- munity Faire. The $30 registration fee in- Matters for Boomers and Beyond pro- [email protected], or (925)254- Special Guest Jerry Mathers known for terian Church. For directions and info, cludes an entry ribbon, lunch for two, a gram Friday, April 11. Health and aging 2184, ext. 15. his role in "Leave it to Beaver" and who call Ruth at (925) 376-0321. commemorative photo, and a chance for experts will be present at the Orinda Li- played Arnie Rogers in this Hitchcock owners to display their restoration work brary from 9 a.m. to noon to discuss GARDEN classic. Talk is cheap; become a volunteer to the public. Prizes will be awarded. The strategies for preventing elder financial emergency communicator. Earn your registration deadline is May 1. To register, abuse and ways in which residents, busi- Lafayette Garden Club Annual Plant Second Annual SAGE (Students for amateur “ham radio” license free in just go to www.moragachamber.org/faire or ness owners and city leaders can come Sale at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 10 at the Advancement of Global Education) six evenings with the help of an experi- call (925) 247-4629. together to make Orinda more aging the Lafayette Christian Church, 584 Benefit Concert from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, enced, licensed instructor. Classes start friendly. In between presentations by Glenside Dr. You can purchase April 11 in the Acalanes High School at 7 p.m. April 22 in Orinda City Hall’s Are you ready to dance, walk, run, Shirley Krohn, Senior Assembly Mem- seedlings, flowers, and potted plants of Performing Arts Center. Many talented Sarge Littlehale room. Final class in- jog? Come to JF Kapnek's 11th annual ber with the California Senior Legisla- all sizes and varieties. Very reasonable Acalanes students will perform, and cludes administration of the FCC exam. Family 5k/1k FUN Run!! Come help ture, and Andrew Scharlach, Ph.D., prices. For info, email SAGE members will talk about the situ- All ages are welcome. Call Keith at celebrate Kapnek's accomplishments in professor of aging at theUniversity of [email protected]. ation in Afghanistan and what SAGE (925) 788-2762, or email our efforts to diminish the effect of the California, Berkeley’s School of Social has done to help. Most importantly, [email protected] HIV/AIDS epidemic on the children and Budd MacKenzie, the founder of Trust families of Zimbabwe. Grab your in Education, will give a short speech Performers for Progress, the non- friends and join us at 9 a.m. on Sunday, Please submit events to: about his recent travels to Afghanistan profit, student-run organization pro- May 4 at Miramonte High School. and efforts there. It's going to be an en- duced at Miramonte High School each Come get your face painted, crafts for [email protected] tertaining and educational night, and all year is coming up again at 7 p.m. Friday the kids, fun kids 1k run, healthy brunch, members of the community are encour- and Saturday, April 25-26. This year will prizes for the top 5k runners, and much aged to come! It is a program for those be unlike any other as MHS collaborates more! Go to Active.Com (keyword Kap- of all ages. Tickets: $10 for adults; $5 for with the three other district schools that nek) to register. For info, email student and seniors. will be hosting acts. Miramonte’s jazz [email protected]. Service Clubs band will be playing as well. Proceeds Dogs and their people are invited to from the show will be donated to charity. Lafayette Juniors 15th Annual Announcements Lafayette’s First-Ever Dogtown It is a wonderful, family-friendly event, Kitchen Tour will be from 10 a.m. to 3 Downtown Community Event from 10 and it is something people will certainly p.m. Saturday, May 17. Tour six special a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 12, which not want to miss! Lafayette homes with unique rustic, includes a Grand Parade and friendly ranch, Cape Cod, open concept, tradi- competitions in the following categories: Widowed Persons Support - "Lunch tional, and farmhouse style kitchens. The Best Dog-Owner Team Trick, Looks Bunch," due to Easter-later in month, tour benefits First Place for Youth, Most Like Owner, Waggiest Tail, Best will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 26 STAND!, the Lafayette Library, SEED, Explore Lamorinda Rotary clubs The heart of Costume (dogs only!) Pet adoptions will at Back 40 Texas BBQ, 100 Coggins and Twin Canyon Camp. Tickets: $40, Rotary is our clubs- dedicated people who share be available and animal rescue group a passion for both community service and friend- Lane, Pleasant Hill. The WPS group with a box lunch available for $15. Pur- ship. Learn about Lamorinda’s Rotary clubs. representatives will be on hand to dis- welcomes members and friends. Call chase tickets online today at cuss educational topics. For more infor- Ann at (925) 482-0318 for reservations. www.lafayettejuniors.org or from mation about Dogtown Downtown, Douglah Designs and Premier Kitchens Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary Club including the presentation schedule and The Saklan School welcomes the com- in Lafayette. registration link, go to We meet Friday mornings at 7 am at Celia’s Mexican Restaurant, 3666 Mt. munity to their annual rummage sale Diablo Blvd, Lafayette. For more info, please email us at [email protected] www.lllcf.com/dogtown. (See story from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 26. Please join us to celebrate the 100th page B6) Bring any items from your home or Anniversary of The Orinda Library April 11: April 18: garage for this community event. Find from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 17 in the Former LA Times reporter Jack Registered dietitian and board The Stroke Support Group of Contra great buys, sell or trade any items of your Library Plaza. Enjoy live music per- Cheever will speak about his certified nutritionist Tinrin Costa County will hold its April meet- choosing. The rummage sale takes place formed by three local Orinda high new book about The Pueblo Chew will discuss "Nutrition, ing in the Lesher Auditorium at John at The Saklan School, located at 1678 school musical groups and other activi- Crisis: ACT OF WAR Life Quality and Aging – Muir Medical Center - Concord Cam- School Street, Moraga. ties. Enter to win one of several fabulous What’s Your Nutrition IQ?” pus, (2540 East Street, Concord) from 7 raffle prizes and enjoy delicious birthday to 9 p.m. Monday, April 14. Speaker Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School treats for all. Save the date: Motorama, Lafayette’s premier auto show, is June 15th! Eileen Nevitt LCSW will discuss is hosting the first annual Peace, Love, “Stroke: It’s a Family Affair.” After the and Pancakes Breakfast and Art Sale. It SENIORS program, attendees will break up into is a student-run pancake breakfast and three coping groups: stroke survivors art sale from 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Apple Basics - Facilitated by Sharon Lafayette Rotary Club without aphasia, stroke survivors with April 27 at JM, to benefit the students at Beck, Owner of Mac-Senior from 10:30 aphasia, and caregivers and families of the JBFC schools in Magu, Tanzania. a.m. to noon on first and third Thursdays Step in on a Thursday. If you are interested in joining Rotary we welcome you to join one of our lunch meetings. Thursday at noon Oakwood Athletic Club Lafayette. stroke survivors – each group led by a Cost is $10 per person. In addition to do- in the Cedar Room, Lafayette Commu- trained professional. For info, contact nating funds for scholarships for students nity Center.. This series will start at the April 17 Speaker: April 19, 10 a.m.: Ann Dzuna at (925) 376-6218. Free. there, JM hopes to be able to fund a very beginning: the technology needed Wei-Tai Kwok on Bring your family to the number of other projects, including in- for wireless communication, your Apple “Act now on Climate Candy Scramble Lafayette Attend a community workshop to stalling solar panels, a biogas system, ID, iTunes, iCloud and the basics of iPad Change” Plaza Park, downtown provide input on hillside development windows for new science labs, and a and iPhone usage. Topics for future ses- Save the Concert at the Res May 10th, 2014 in Moraga from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, new pig pen. More information about sions will be determined by participants’ date! New Stage, Lafayette Reservoir April 16 in the Hagarty Lounge at De- the school in Tanzania can be found at input and needs. There will be time for LaSalle Hall at Saint Mary’s College. http://www.jbfc-online.org/jbfcmodel- Q&A at the end of each class. Please note: www. rotarylafayette.org Learn about the project, share your educationempowerment.html. For ticket this series deals with Apple devices only. thoughts, hear ideas and opinions of info, visit Cost: $1 members; $3 non-members. Moraga residents, help ensure the town http://jm.moraga.k12.ca.us/plp. policies and regulations address the is- sues you care about. For more info go to The United States Congress has desig- www.moraga.ca.us/hillsides or contact nated America’s Days of Remembrance You’re Invited ~ Community Open House Ellen Cark, senior planner, (925) 888- as the nation’s annual remembrance of 7041 or [email protected]. the Holocaust. In Contra Costa County, Yom HaShoah 2014 will be conducted in Lamorinda Republican Women Fed- the Sanctuary of Temple Isaiah begin- erated welcomes luncheon speaker ning at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, April 27. Ex- Mike Winther at noon, April 17 at the cerpts from the opera, “Another Sunrise,” Orinda Country Club. Mike Winther is will be performed. Members of the gen- the president for principle studies and eral public are welcome and encouraged sits on the board of scholars at the Mack- to attend this free program to honor those inac Center for Public Policy. For lunch- who survived, all who perished, and the eon information and reservations contact th Righteous Among Nations who rescued Thursday April 17 2014 Elsie Euing at (925) 254-8617 no later survivors. Location: 945 Risa Road, than April 14. Cost: $25. Men are always Lafayette. For more info, call (510) 318- welcome. 6453. 5:00pm -7:00 pm 348 Rheem Blvd. Moraga, CA Lamorinda Weekly is an independent publication, produced by and for the residents of Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda, CA Come Tour Our Newly Updated Community, Meet Our 26,600 printed copies; delivered to homes & businesses in Lamorinda. Contact us: Highly Skilled Team, Enjoy Light Faire, Refreshments, Letters to the editor (max 350 words): [email protected] Sport events/stories/pictures: [email protected] Music And Great Conversation. Art, theater, community events: [email protected] Business news or business press releases: [email protected] Grace Healthcare of Moraga Specializes in Post-Acute School stories/events: [email protected] General interest stories/Community Service: [email protected] Rehabilitation Stop By And See Demonstrations Of Our State- Publishers/Owners: Andy and Wendy Scheck; [email protected], [email protected] of-The-Art Therapy Modalities Including Virtual Rehab Editor in Chief: Lee Borrowman; [email protected] Life, Our Homes and Community Editor: Jennifer Wake; [email protected] Sports Editor: Caitlin Mitchell; [email protected] Advertising: 925-377-0977, Wendy Scheck; [email protected] C o m e C e l e b r a t e W i t h U s ! Staff Writers: Sophie Braccini; [email protected] Enjoy Timeless Songs Sung by Steve Swan. Cathy Tyson; [email protected] Laurie Snyder; [email protected] Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Bobby Darin, Nat King Cole & Andy Williams Cathy Dausman, [email protected] Nick Marnell; [email protected] Wine Tasting From Moraga’s Local Vineyard Teen Coach: Cynthia Brian; [email protected] Food: Susie Iventosch; [email protected] Contributing Writers: Conrad Bassett, Moya Stone, Michael Sakoda, Marissa Harnett, Lou Fancher, Clare Varellas, Chris Lavin, Amanda Kuehn, Diane Claytor, Barry Hunau (cartoonist) Photos:Tod Fierner, Ohlen Alexander, Gint Federas Layout/Graphics: Andy Scheck, Jaya Griggs. 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 Serving The Moraga Community For Over 40 Years Page: B14 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014

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Lamorinda Weekly Volume 08 Issue 3 Wednesday, April 9, 2014

The Home Designer

...read on page C10 How to Plant in Lamorindaís Microclimates Fog and topography a big factor when planning your garden By Sophie Braccini

Now is the time to be planting fruit trees. Matt Cameron of the Moraga Garden Center shows a bare-root black mulberry tree to Hye Yeong Min of Orinda. She is curious about the roots. Photo Chris Lavin ou don’t need a green thumb to know that we live in an area of mi- erty, the devil is in the details. croclimates, but observant local gardeners will you tell that sub-mi- Serious gardeners keep a record of what happens year after year, observ- Ycroclimates may exist on any single plot of land. Microclimates vary ing the sun, wind and hardscape, and sometimes even installing small weather from eastern Lafayette to western Orinda, Canyon to southwestern Moraga, stations to capture data in different parts of their gardens. so when deciding what vegetables and fruit trees will grow well on your prop- ... continued on page C4

Page: C2 OUR HOMES Wed., April 9, 2014

VLATKA BATHGATE IF I HAD A BUYER FOR YOUR Lamorinda Home Sales recorded HOME WOULD YOU SELL IT? City Last reported: LOWEST AMOUNT: HIGHEST AMOUNT: Call me at 925 597 1573 LAFAYETTE 14 $600,000 $2,275,000 MORAGA 13 $245,000 $1,450,000 [email protected] ORINDA 5 $765,000 $2,500,000 CalBRE#01390784 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 3280 Brookwood Drive, $862,000, 3 Bdrms, 1741 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 3-13-14 FOR SALE 1847 Del Este Street #1857, $1,225,000, 6 Bdrms, 4719 SqFt, 1989 YrBlt, 2-28-14; previous Sale: $1,195,000, 03-17-04 216 Encounter Bay, Alameda, $838,000 467 Florence Drive, $915,000, 3 Bdrms, 1651 SqFt, 1951 YrBlt, 3-4-14; LAGOON OASIS! previous Sale: $830,000, 08-10-06 Mediterranean style home in 631 Laird Lane, $825,000, 4 Bdrms, 2082 SqFt, 1967 YrBlt, 3-12-14; lagoon setting with views from previous Sale: $650,000, 04-16-04 almost every room. Numerous 7 Lincolnshire Court, $1,520,000, 3 Bdrms, 2595 SqFt, 1952 YrBlt, 3-7-14; Open House Saturday and Sunday stylish upgrades, spectacular previous Sale: $650,000, 09-08-10 architecture, prime corner lot, 3210 Quandt Road, $2,275,000, 4 Bdrms, 3606 SqFt, 1981 YrBlt, 3-6-14; private cul-de-sac. previous Sale: $740,000, 01-05-99 837 Reliez Station Road, $959,000, 5 Bdrms, 2481 SqFt, 1949 YrBlt, 3-7-14; previous Sale: $670,000, 12-03-12 1348 San Reliez Court, $1,225,000, 3 Bdrms, 2326 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 3-4-14; previous Sale: $910,000, 08-03-10 513 Silverado Drive, $1,400,000, 5 Bdrms, 2724 SqFt, 1964 YrBlt, 3-11-14; previous Sale: $715,000, 03-27-98 588 Dalewood Dr, Orinda, $1,798,000 1 Springhill Lane, $1,595,000, 4 Bdrms, 2516 SqFt, 1966 YrBlt, 3-14-14; CHARMING ORINDA DOWNS RETREAT! previous Sale: $470,000, 08-14-98 3176 Stanley Boulevard, $600,000, 3 Bdrms, 1808 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 3-12-14; previous Sale: $840,000, 05-14-08 3389 Sweet Drive, $1,165,000, 3 Bdrms, 1743 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 3-5-14 1106 Upper Happy Valley Road, $956,000, 3 Bdrms, 1828 SqFt, 1939 YrBlt, 3-11-14 1009 Willow Drive, $910,000, 4 Bdrms, 1632 SqFt, 1941 YrBlt, 3-6-14 MORAGA 111 Ascot Court #A, $355,000, 2 Bdrms, 1106 SqFt, 1973 YrBlt, 3-14-14; previous Sale: $380,000, 10-22-04 Luxury awaits you in this enchanting residence with tranquil setting on over-sized lot 2079 Ascot Drive #139, $245,000, 1 Bdrms, 713 SqFt, 1971 YrBlt, 3-14-14; with playful flat areas. Attention to details. Sleepy Hollow Elementary school. previous Sale: $165,000, 12-22-10 756 Augusta Drive, $765,000, 2 Bdrms, 2079 SqFt, 1974 YrBlt, 3-14-14; EXCELLENT TIME to take advantage of strong previous Sale: $690,000, 05-27-11 demand to get the highest possible price on your 871 Augusta Drive, $660,000, 2 Bdrms, 1552 SqFt, 1979 YrBlt, 3-7-14 939 Augusta Drive, $830,000, 4 Bdrms, 3108 SqFt, 1988 YrBlt, 3-13-14; home and buy something else while interest rates previous Sale: $512,000, 08-22-97 are still low. They started to go up. 815 Camino Ricardo, $1,416,000, 5 Bdrms, 2397 SqFt, 1965 YrBlt, 3-11-14 If I had a Buyer for your home would you sell it? 875 Camino Ricardo, $1,200,000, 4 Bdrms, 2160 SqFt, 1967 YrBlt, 3-4-14; previous Sale: $878,500, 11-09-11 VLATKA CAN HELP YOU WITH BUYING OR SELLING YOUR HOME. 5 Corliss Drive, $1,086,000, 4 Bdrms, 2406 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 3-3-14; WWW.BESTLAMORINDAHOMES.COM previous Sale: $155,000, 08-29-79 ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal ... continued on page C12 Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 STILL #1 FOR A REASON 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 Contra Costa’s Best

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How to Plant in Lamorindaís Microclimates ... continued from page C1 tion from people who buy our plants all over Lamorinda, telling us what works best and what doesn’t grow as well where they live.” The information collected will re- main anonymous, with locations marked by the closest cross streets. “It seems Champion tomatoes are doing very well almost everywhere,” notes Preston. “On the other hand, the Cherokee purple are not producing much in my garden, they do not get enough sun. It does well at the Farm where there is less morning fog, but here we can't get it to develop its color and flavor.” Preston also experimented with tomatoes planted in containers. "We wanted to see what types would do well in pots so we could advise people," she says. "The pots tend to dry out. Ceramic pots and plastic containers get really hot in the sun and the roots get too hot; wood is probably the best." She and other Farm members have noticed that cherry tomatoes tend to do very well in containers. “Artichokes are also very sensitive to weather micro-conditions, but as opposed to tomatoes that need a lot of sun, they enjoy more foggy summers,” she adds. ... continued on page C6

Bobbie Preston with the Moraga Gardens Farm maps. Photo Sophie Braccini The Moraga Gardens Farm, during its spring plant sale, is refining its neighborhood map to illustrate what vegetables grow best in which locations. “I noticed that the tomatoes I plant in my garden do not grow the same way as the ones that are planted in the Gardens Farm,” says Bobbie Preston. “I live in the Camino Pablo/Larch neighborhood of Moraga where the fog lingers longer, while the farm is close to the intersection of Moraga Road and Moraga Way and gets more sun.” Preston is part of the team that sells the seedlings grown for sale on site. As the team noticed these yield differences, its members decided to create a Lamorinda map indicating what varieties do best where, one street at a time. “Right now we have information that comes from our members who work at the Farms and This artichoke plant in a Moraga garden didn’t grow in the first spot it was planted also grow at home,” says Preston. “What we’re doing this year is collecting informa- and had to be moved to a different location where it is now doing very well. )EC717) )EE3CD0P D683P )EE3CD0P ASSOCIATES ! REAL ESTATE HHHB)EC717)0)EE3CD0P1A9www.patriciabattersby.com FDE7DE32 !!)SF%F,&@ I13BE7A@)8A937@ )9BA87@2A37560AC6AA2

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756E* C756EH7E6')88DA48)DD C3)E7E163@/)978P"AA9 2H28CD%3)C)C)53% AA8    $(S7$$ Page: C6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 How to Plant in Lamorindaís Microclimates ... continued from page C4 is the fog," he says. "Depending on when it sets in and burns out will create quite different microclimates." He does not recommend certain plants for the Lamorinda area, such as Kadota figs that require a lot of heat. "If you get closer to Concord you can get Kadota, but here in Moraga with the fog, you will have more success with Black Mission or Brown Turkey figs." "Half of gardening is observing," states Murakami. He recommends that people watch the pattern changes with the seasons, and record observations year round. For example, people can record the exact time when fruit trees bloom and the associated conditions. Is it sunny? Windy? "If you do that over the years, you will notice slight differences," he adds. For ultimate infor- mation gathering, some gardeners install weather sta- tions outside their homes; the data can be uploaded on a personal weather website and shared with weather networks around the world. The Moraga Gardens Farm will sell its tomato, squash, pepper and herb plants every weekend from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through April 19 at 1370 Moraga Way (next to the fire station). The Moraga Garden Center is located at 1400 Moraga Rd. For information about weather stations, visit http://www.windandweather.com/weather-sta- An avocado tree thrives in a hillside Moraga garden. Photo Cathy Dausman tions/weather-stations.htm. “Climates are critical to the success and failure of crops,” confirms Kenny Murakami, owner of the Moraga Garden Center. He recommends an analysis of the topog- raphy of each property to determine what to plant where. "In winter on a slope, cold air is heavier than warm air, so it sinks. If your house is on the slope, cold air gets caught on the uphill side; then the cold air will go around [the structure of your home] causing a little tri- angle on the downhill side that's a little bit warmer," he explains. "If you have fences or shrubs, they will also deflect cold air. You can think of cold air as a thick vis- cous liquid and how it flows downhill in winter." Mu- rakami says that avocados, which are very sensitive to frost, should be planted on the downhill side of a home. Converse to winter cold, there is summer heat. "Lettuce does not like heat, so you can plant it on the east side of your tomato plants so the afternoon sun gets cut off," he suggests. In the sunnier spots he rec- ommends tomatoes, squash, peppers, and melons, keeping the greens in the shade. He agrees that the conditions in each garden are also linked to where people live. "The main factor around here Fog at Lafayette Reservoir Photo Kathy Bowles Welcome to the Spring Market!

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The Home Designer Great Wall of Style By Brandon Neff draperies," she'd say, pulling me kicking and screaming from my controversial end of the samples' wall where those darker, vibrant colors were the Devil's work. I think I knew then what I'd end up doing as an adult. Give me color! Trends change, thank the Lord! Remember chintz and ruffled bed skirts, and mirrored ceilings! Yikes! Perhaps, they were once the cat's pajamas – not so much anymore. Unfortunately, when wallpaper was used during the Nixon to Clinton eras, it was uninspiring and a bit dowdy, relegated to bad hotel rooms, country cot- tages, Nancy Reagan's White House and Grannie's retirement home. But the deco- rating austerity that became the apotheosis of the well-designed American Home up until the late '90s finally changed, nda the 21st century ushered in a new, fresh and glamorous age of high design mixing period styles with traditional and modern classics. Thankfully, hand painted, hand blocked and re-issued archival papers, along with an ever increasing fresh stock of innovative motifs from today's designers have flooded the design scene making for some stunning results. In my practice today, wallpapers have become synonymous with adding individuality and texture to an often overlooked, or ignored opportunity in a space. Why have a bland, solid wall color, when you can transform your room into something inspiring? Sure, I'll always use paint – some spaces look best with a clean backdrop. But, for many homes where there's not a lot of architectural interest, or the walls aren't in good condition, wallpaper can elevate them in an instant. From hand painted garden scenes and stunning murals (De Gourney makes some of the most beauti- ful), to graphic geometrics and bold metallics, the range of looks are transformative. Many of the established, venerable design houses like Colefax & Fowler or Schu- macher are reimagining older releases in new and dynamic color ways. There are a new crop of smaller wallpaper companies like Walnut (walnutwallpaper.com) out of Los Angeles that are releasing new and original wallpapers in irreverent patterns, styles and materials. One of my current obsessions is grasscloth. Once, it was only available in a limited number of colors – all looking more Japanese Tea Garden than urban chic. But today grasscloth comes in myriad colors, textures and motifs. Some of my fa- Phillip Jeffries makes beautiful grasscloth papers in dynamic colors. vorites are tone on tone geometric designs like hexagons or diamond patterns Photos courtesy Brandon Neff Design woven into the fibers. Grasscloth is one of the easiest and most forgiving papers to apply – some are fter its heyday from the 1930s, through the beginning of the pivotal very DIY friendly. They come sold in widerrolls than most papers, so they cover social and economic shifts that were the 1960s, American design didn't more square footage, saving you money. Try Ralph Lauren Home for some great Aembrace wallpaper for decades to come. Once the height of chic decor inspiration. for the home – no house was truly finished without a properly decadent wall cov- Fear of commitment? Aren't we all? For apartment dwellers, or those skittish ering – papers took a back seat to plain wall paint ranging in hues from off white to about the permanence of wallpaper, there's a new range of temporary, peel and stick Swiss coffee. Can we all agree to never use Swiss coffee again? options. While not as detailed as some of the larger design house offerings, these I can remember as a child tagging along with my mother on a rainy Saturday temporary paper companies are rolling out more selection every season – easy to to Ace Hardware to pick up a few gallons of fresh paint for the living room. While install, easy to remove. For renters who crave more than builder beige walls, these I was off exploring the color chips at the far end of the display looking at vibrant are perfect. A couple of great resources are tempaper.com, and designyourwall.com. reds, blues and greens, my mom was at the opposite end firmly planted in front of Check out the "faux bois" papers that mimic wood grain – super stylish in a family the whites. She couldn't fathom using a color other than off white. "It matches the room or guest bedroom. ... continued on page C12 100 Claremont Ave, Orinda

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Offered at $1,195,000 • Call for more information Peterson Brown CB Bay Area Top 100 Realtor Paul & Virginia Ratto 925.818.4588 925.998.9501 [email protected] andibrownhomes.com www.RattoandRatto.com CalBRE # 01738605 License #: 00900621 | 01361537 ©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 And Operated by NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 Page: C12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014

The Home Designer Great Wall of Style ... continued from page C10 I probably don't need to remind you, but the paper you choose will only look as good as the wallpaper installer who hangs it. This is not an area to scrimp on. Choose wisely, and hire a pro. The walls will need to prepped properly nda the quantity of paper you order should both be done by a specialist. You want a pattern match on wallpapers that have a repeating motif, so ordering properly is essential. This isn't a Home Depot run kind of project. Lastly, get samples before you decide. Most companies offer what's called a "memo" – tack this to the project wall and live with it for a while. Wallpaper will be the least mutable item in your décor, so it has to work on many levels. Looking for more inspiration? Check out my website, BrandonNeffDesign.com, and shoot me an email – I'll add you to my free newsletter subscriber list.

For more great ideas and inspiration sign up for my design newsletter. Simply drop me an email at [email protected].

Brandon Neff is a Bay Area based Interior Designer. He can be reached at BrandonNeffDesign.com or at [email protected].

A dreamy Fornasetti wallpaper brings this home office to life.

Lamorinda Home Sales recorded ... continued from page C2 MORAGA ... continued ORINDA 211 Fernwood Drive, $1,338,000, 4 Bdrms, 2257 SqFt, 1968 YrBlt, 3-7-14 24 Barbara Road, $765,000, 2 Bdrms, 1341 SqFt, 1935 YrBlt, 3-5-14; 281 Fernwood Drive, $1,450,000, 5 Bdrms, 3494 SqFt, 1981 YrBlt, 3-14-14; previous Sale: $585,000, 02-20-07 previous Sale: $920,000, 07-28-11 11 Fairway Drive, $1,546,500, 3 Bdrms, 4195 SqFt, 1964 YrBlt, 3-11-14 16 Irvine Drive, $1,075,000, 3 Bdrms, 2235 SqFt, 1985 YrBlt, 3-11-14; 723 Ironbark Court, $1,420,000, 4 Bdrms, 3368 SqFt, 1979 YrBlt, 3-14-14 previous Sale: $855,000, 10-05-09 188 Lombardy Lane, $2,500,000, 5 Bdrms, 3310 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 3-11-14; 103 Merion Terrace, $851,000, 3 Bdrms, 2486 SqFt, 1988 YrBlt, 3-6-14; previous Sale: $1,716,500, 04-29-04 previous Sale: $777,000, 08-23-12 731 Miner Road, $1,350,000, 3 Bdrms, 1658 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 2-28-14 3989 Paseo Grande, $881,000, 4 Bdrms, 2340 SqFt, 1970 YrBlt, 3-13-14; previous Sale: $90,000, 06-29-76 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 925-377-0977 www.lamorindaweekly.com OUR HOMES LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: C13

Digging Deep-Gardening with Cynthia Brian Donít Doubt the Drought “Somewhere between right and wrong, there is a garden. I will meet you there.” – Rumi urray for the rain! How happy we have been to utilize our umbrellas for the recent April showers. But don’t confuse this limited precipitation Hwith full reservoirs. The recent downpours were only a trickle. The snowpack remains at only 30 percent of necessary and the water level in our lakes hov- ers around 50 percent of normal. Don’t doubt this drought. It is here to stay and we have to adjust to the coming season of dry weather. Conservation is critical. Do you know what xeriscaping is? Although some people have nicknamed the system “zero-scaping,” nothing could be further from the truth. Xeriscaping is a ben- eficial way to conserve water while maintaining a beautiful garden. Gardens may contain cacti and succulents, but many other drought tolerant specimens are also included. Plants with similar water requirements are grouped together and the use of the plot is considered. Areas for relaxing, eating, playing, sitting, and privacy are part of the plan. Trees and shrubs are positioned to provide heating and cooling while curved wide swaths are encouraged for easier water efficiency. The resulting benefit of xeriscaping is a low maintenance garden that is drought resistant, water conserving, and a habitat for wildlife. Water usage may be reduced by as much as 50-75 percent. There is no right or wrong in the garden, but this year, we definitely must be water conscious.

Drought Gardening Series – Part 2 Next Steps PLANT WISELY Maintenance, not growth, is the goal of gardeners during a drought. If you must plant, decide on drought-tolerant plants instead of thirsty ones. In general, plants that can survive the dry times have leaves that are thick, small, glossy, fuzzy, or sil- ver-grey. Be aware of exposure. Don’t mix flowerbeds with plants that have different needs. Hot, dry areas with south or west exposures require more water while east and north facing gardens retain their moisture longer. Natives and desert plants drink less. Plant now while the weather is cooler and refrain from planting during the warmer months. Consider vegetables that will give you the biggest bang for your water buck such as tomatoes, beans, artichokes, eggplant, peppers, squash, Swiss Chard, lettuces, and cucumbers while eliminating choices that produce just one crop like cauliflower. Pretty, prickly, and great in drought plantings. Just don’t fall in it! Cleistocactus PLANT CLOSE TOGETHER hyalacanthus (white-spined columnar cactus) Photos Cynthia Brian Learn from the Native Americans who planted “Three Sisters” including corn, beans, and squash. According to Iroquois legend, corn, beans, and squash are three insep- DEADHEAD REGULARLY arable sisters who grow and thrive together. The beans provide nitrogen, the corn is Don’t allow seeds or pods to form as they zap energy and use more water to form a trellis where beans can grow, and the prickly foliage of the squash keep the corn the seeds. By deadheading, you’ll keep the juices flowing. Do not prune heavily as worms away in a sustainable system that has been used throughout history. Instead water-deprived plants are stressed and may not have the capacity to heal the pruned of organizing your garden in rows, plant in close knit squares or swathes to pack the branches resulting in death. Pruning encourages side shoots and stimulates growth, punch in small places. Use tall plants as canopies of shade. In the fall, add a cover which is not what you are seeking in a drought. Deadheading just the spent flowers crop mix to protect and fertilize garden beds after harvest. is the key to keeping your plants alive. ... continued on page C14 Page: C14 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Digging Deep-Gardening with Cynthia Brian Donít Doubt the Drought ... continued from page C13 TURF WARS Lawns are warriors. They can absorb a mountain of abuse as they give our eyes a rest from concrete chaos. I love a lawn for the visual appeal as well as the function- ality of recreational activities and am not about to abandon my green space in order to be politically correct. Although lawns may not be as green as the Emerald Isle with minimal irrigation, they will survive when you take these steps: 1. Allow the grass clippings to remain on the grass to recycle nutrients and moisture. 2. Reseed or repair lawns with drought resistant fine fescues. 3. Set your mower height to three inches to encourage deeper roots. Allow grass to go dormant when water is not available. Unless conditions are ex- treme, your lawns will return when the seasons grow cooler.

SAVING WATER Gray water is good for your garden. Keep a bucket in your shower and near your Tulips are the ultimate spring surprise. bath. Rinse and wash dishes in a container to recycle the soapy suds. If possible re- route your washing machine hose to water your landscape. Use wine barrels to catch CREATE SHADE rainwater and divert downspouts to your flowerbeds. Don’t use roof run-off on your Use market umbrellas, canvas tarps, or canopies to create false shade. Move con- edibles. tainers to covered patios or overhangs to reduce the direct sunlight from already stressed plants.

BUILD WINDBREAKS Wind dries the soil. Natural windbreaks include trees, shrubs, grasses, and hedges. Use decorative screens, art, or furniture as man-made wind barriers. Lic.: #611120 & Landscaping RAISED BEDS Family owned in Moraga since 1987 A magnificent solution to numerous gardening challenges is to buy or build raised beds. Self-contained cow troughs are excellent since no critters can get in for a nibble Your friendly neighborhood and they retain water. Whether your raised beds are made of wood, concrete, alu- SPRING IS IN THE AIR arborists Darren and Lew Edwards Spring is here – it’s time for spring cleaning minum, or other material, make sure that the bottom is protected with wire and that but for your landscape! The trees and plants in the yard need to be inspected you add a few inches of gravel to the bottom for drainage. Fill with good soil, com- for water damage, remove dead or dying branches which may have been post, mulch, and crowd your plantings together. Raised beds save backs and knees injured by disease/severe insect infestation or storm damage. as they eliminate the bending necessary for most garden tasks. We also want to prune for improved plant appearance, tree and plant size to ensure all around health for your landscape. DRY FARMING So don’t wait until it’s too late, have a complete inspection by a Certified I grew up on a dry farm. The flavors from the harvest were always intense, robust, Arborist at Advance Tree Service and Landscaping and delicious. To dry farm, build your soil first with extra amounts of compost and to make your yard a summer STAYCATION. use cover crops such as alfalfa, oats, beans, or vetch. When you plant your vegetables Advance Tree Service and fruit teach them to survive without water by giving them only a few drops to keep them alive. Once the fruit is set, stop watering completely. Your Authority on Trees and Landscape. 925-376-6528 By using all of the tips of the past two issues of Digging Deep-Gardening with Cyn- thia Brian, you will have begun your journey to xeriscaping. [email protected] www.advancetree.com Follow us on Twitter (advancetree) and like us on Face Book My Drought Gardening series continues next month when Part Three features a list (ADVANCETREESERVICEANDLANDSCAPINGINC.) of drought tolerant plants. Stay tuned! Wednesday, April 9, 2014 925-377-0977 www.lamorindaweekly.com OUR HOMES LAMORINDA WEEKLY Pag e: C15

Cynthia Brian’s Mid-Month Reminders • ADD a birdbath to your xeriscaping as it is essential to provide water for our feathered friends. • SAVE the bulbs from the Easter gifts of lilies and tulips. Plant in the ground for a more spectacular repeat bloom next year. • MIX and match blue bachelor buttons, with white scabiosa, and pink dianthus for an easy, enchanted display. • CONTROL pests with healthy gardening practices that are eco-friendly. • SAVE space and water by planting a disease resistant fruit salad tree that has been grafted with multiple varieties of your favorites. • CELEBRATE the Earth Day Wildlife Festival from 1 to 4 p.m. April 27 at the Wagner Ranch Nature Area in Orinda. • BUY heirloom and organically grown plants from Moraga Community Garden sale every weekend in April located behind the walnut barn off of Moraga Way. May flowers depend on more April showers thus we’ll continue our rain dances. Wishing you a very Happy Easter and Passover. Happy Gardening! Happy Growing!

DESIGN e Ri INSTALLATION u dg IRRIGATION l e DRAINAGE B STONEWORK CONCRETE WORK DECKS 925-258-9233 FENCES cell: 510-847-6160 PATIOS Landscape Company Inc. LAWNS PONDS Blue Jay Feldman LICENSED CLEANUP & OWNER/OPERATOR INSURED HAULING www.blueridgelc.com Lic# 818633

Echeveria are excellent choices for xeriscaping.

©2014, Cynthia Brian The Goddess Gardener [email protected] http://www.GoddessGardener.com 925-377-7827 Cynthia is available as a speaker and consultant. family owned since 1933 Lamorinda’s Leading Independent Real Estate Firm

ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA

ASSOCIATES

REAL ESTATE New Listing New Listing 56 La Vuelta Country Club 91 Redwood Terrace You can see 9 Las Piedras Picturesque private 89 Tarry Lane Wonderful Sleepy THE VILLAGE Contemporary 2,472sf hm offers forever! Incredible views from this 6bd/3ba hm in park like setting Hollow location on .78 acre with bright, open living spaces & gorgeous lovely 3502 square foot, 4 bedroom, 4 w/panoramic views, level lawn & pool. 3bd/2ba, 1711 sq. ft., hardwood ASSOCIATES: views. Well appointed 4 bdrms & 3 bathroom home. Vaulted living room 3745sf classic custom w/vaulted ceilings, floors, large living room, family off baths are both stylish & comfortable. ceiling, open floor plan, hardwood floors, walls of windows, hdwd flrs, den, kitchen, knoll setting. Views of the Ashley Battersby Kitchen/fam rm layout inviting & gorgeous decks and level yard area. workout room, FR & well-appointed surrounding ‘Hollow’ hills. Patricia Battersby ideal for entertaining. $1,055,000 $1,100,000 kitchen. $1,329,000 $1,395,000 Joan Cleveland Shannon Conner ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA Joan Eggers Linda Ehrich Joan Evans Linda S. Friedman Marianne Greene Dexter Honens II Pending New Listing Anne Knight 52 Singingwood Lane Two story 17 Tappan Lane Vistas across 36 Charles Hill Circle Stylish upscale 81 Mossbridge Lane Beautifully Susan Zeh Layng brick enhanced 5bd/2.5ba home on Orinda come alive from all rooms of this 5bd/5ba, 4168 sf gated contemporary on updated approx. 4540 sf, 6bd/5.5ba Art Lehman 1.06 ac. Formal entry, living & dining spacious 4,155 sf with 6 bd/4 ba & 2 half 1.46 ac, updated & gorgeous! Lrg open Traditional Orinda Downs gem! Form Charles Levine rms, spacious eat-in kit. & large family ba. High ceilings & light & bright. kitchen/fam rm+outdr kitchen; 2 mstr meets function in this exquisite home Erin Martin rm. Master retreat upstairs along w/ 3 Perfect for fun in the sun with yards, suites; 2 ofc/study rms; heated pool; perched on a private lane. This is the April Matthews other bdrms. Dwnstrs bdrm could decks, pool, & vineyard on 1.15 ac. lighted tennis crt; 1,000 bottle wine cellar. home you have been waiting for! make perfect ofc. $1,495,000 $2,275,000 $2,395,000 $2,795,000 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 11 Scenic Drive Gorgeous 4bd/3.5ba, 92 Sandhill Road Estate setting of 418 Woodminster Drive Fabulous 127 Cypress Point Way Stunning Molly Smith 4695 sf single-story Orinda estate on .64 unmatched appeal. Large spaces + updated 3bd/2.5ba twnhm close to 3bd/2.5ba MCC twnhm w/new hdwd Jeff Snell ac lot w/exceptional style & quality; LR modern design allure for appealing shopping, top rated schools. Stylish, flrs in entry, LR, DR, kitchen/fam rm. Lynda Snell & DR; office; showplace kitchen/dining/ family living or grand scale entertaining. high quality designer appointments, Fabulous kitchen w/slab granite & SS Clark Thompson fam rm; 1bd/1ba guest house; solar Fabulous views of valley & Briones 1572sf, 2 decks, views of hills, walls of appliances. Large fenced patio. Great Angie Evans Traxinger heated pool & large poolside patio. reservoir/sunsets. A classic! glass, kitchen/fam rm, hdwd flrs, 2 car loc. close to clubhouse, golf, swim, Ignacio Vega $2,998,000 $4,850,000 attached garage. $559,000 tennis & town. $759,000 Terri Bates Walker MORAGA BERKELEY BLACKHAWK PLEASANT HILL Ann Ward Dan Weil Margaret Zucker

New Listing New Listing 1320 Bollinger Canyon Rarely 3079 Bateman Street Updated 20 Chestnut Place Extraordinary 172 Paso Nogal Road Fabulous available Bollinger Canyon two acre Craftsman in Elmwood. Walk Score Blackhawk Country Club 4980 square 4+bd/3ba home w/2900 sf incl. 1bd/1ba property; 5 bedroom/ 5 bathrooms; of 94! Both units tastefully renovated foot, country French style estate with in-law. Sep. ofc. Huge great rm 4489 square feet with 5 car garage; 2 with original (refinished) hardwood pool on sought after cul de sac. Vaulted w/vaulted ceiling. Main kitchen/baths facebook.com/VillageAssociates master suites + aupair/ inlaw; floors, moldings, built-ins, clawfoot ceilings, Master suite with fireplace and new in 2013. Many upgrades. Super beautifully landscaped light and tubs, pocket doors & wood-burning adjoining office. yard spaces. Near CC Country Club. twitter.com/villageassoc bright lot! $1,345,000 fireplace. Large attic. $950,000 $1,999,000 Mt. Diablo views! $965,000

93 Moraga Way, Suite 103 • Orinda, CA 94563 • Phone: (925) 254-0505 Visit www.villageassociates.com Click on Sunday Open Homes Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: D1 SUMMER CAMPS

half-day 8th Annual 28 2014 /#2 Summer Camp camps listed presented by Lamorinda Weekly Guide Part 2, Half-Day Camps (Part 1, Full Day and Overnight Camps published on March 12 2014) Football Instruction from Winning Players By Cathy Tyson

Photos provided

ormer NCS Champion varsity football Parents have commented that there’s a bit of Fplayers who have just graduated from ‘fan-dom’ by these kids entering grades 5 Miramonte High School, along with recent through 8 this fall, many of whom witnessed alumni will be staffing a youth football camp the unbelievably heroic season the Mats var- this summer. It’s not every day local kids get sity team enjoyed. to work out with “celebrity” football players Coach Schram said the kids will focus on who they may have seen on Friday nights skill development and the fundamentals of this past fall. the game – no pads and no contact – in this While the camp is brief, just four days, it camp that is especially geared for first-timers. offers an early summer respite for parents, a Students will be separated by age group; solid work out for kids, a chance to work on Schram said it will be very similar to spring through Thursday, June 16-19. It’s unclear of the summer. For more information, email skill development with high school star ath- practice with the varsity players, focusing on whether four short days of instruction can [email protected]. letes, and perhaps a dash of inspiration. Now catching, throwing, running routes, acceler- prepare would-be players for the intensity of If your child is interested in more foot- in its second year, the camp is staffed by ation and agility. high school football, both boys and girls are ball, see the entry below about the Cougar mostly college-bound young men under the The camp, hosted by Mats Football welcome to attend, but perhaps it’s enough Youth Football Camp for grades 4-8 offered supervision of popular coach Jack Schram. Club, LLC, runs from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Monday to motivate football tossing for the balance at Campolindo High School July 7-18.

ACADEMIC

Amazing Math Classes see Orinda Academy Saklan School see ad ad (Moraga) (Orinda) (Moraga) Weeklong sessions taught by experienced, Algebra I and II, pre-calculus, geometry, Summer@Saklan is your passport to the world! funny teachers through the Moraga Parks and U.S. history. Personalized instruction Mornings on the Saklan campus are filled with Recreation Department. Sessions include with 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio. culture and language enrichment programs in elementary school math and science, sports Mandarin, French, Japanese, Spanish and Italian. and statistics, algebra I, high school geometry, Orinda Academy classes meet state Afternoons are packed with summer fun, and algebra II. Contact head teacher Michael requirements for credit and are UC-approved. including field trips, swimming, games, art, stories Adler or Moraga Parks and Rec Department. Dates: June 23 - Aug. 8 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and music. Three-week sessions. Full or half days, Individual or small group tutoring also available. with extended care and van transportation Phone: (925) 888-7036 available. Ages 3–11. Dates: June 9 - Aug. 8 Email: [email protected] Phone: (925) 254-7553 Phone: (925) 376-7900 Website: www.moraga.ca.us Website: www.orindaacademy.org Website: www.saklan.org/community/summersaklan

Oakland Strokes Summer Rowing Camps SUMMER 2014 Rowing Camps for Boys and Girls Ages 12 – 17 PERFORM AT BERKELEY REP SUMMER TEEN Learn to Row Crew! Our summer program is designed to provide an enjoyable THEATRE INTENSIVE ACTORS STUDIO Our summer program is designed to provide an but very real introduction to the great sport of rowing. We GRADES 6–12 GRADES 9–12 enjoyable but very real introduction to the great use these introductory camps as a recruiting program for JUN 16–JUL 11 JUN 23–JUL 5 allsport of our of rowingrowing. teams. We use They these provide introductory excellent training camps GRADES 9–12 foras abeginning recruiting rowers program in rowing for all technique, of our rowing teamwork, teams. physicalThey provide fitness excellent and endurance. training Within for beginning a week rowers rowers will JUL 15–AUG 8 gainin rowing enough technique, experience teamwork, to compete physicalin their very fitness first race,and anendurance. exciting experience Within a forweek all! rowersClasses nowwill gainavailable enough on skill to row their first race on the Oakland Estuary, financial aid available theskill San to rowPablo their Reservoir first raceor Oakland on the Estuary. Oakland Estuary, which is guaranteed to be an exciting experience which is guaranteed to be an exciting experience Oneone wayWeek or another!Introductory Sessions (8:30 - 11:30am) one way or another! Tidewater Boating Center One Week Introductory Sessions (9 am – 12 am) JuneOne 16thWeek - 20th Introductory (Intermediate* Sessions 10:30am (9 am - 1:30pm) – 12 am) JulyUÊ ՘iÊÓäÊqÊÓ{ 7th - 11th (Intermediate* 10:30am - 1:30pm) UÊ ՘iÊÓäÊqÊÓ{ AugustUÊ ՘iÊÓÇÊqÊՏÞÊ£ÊÊ 4th - 8th (Intermediate* ­
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`Û>˜Vi`ÊÃiÃȜ˜ÃÊ>Û>ˆ>LiÊ̜Ê>Ì iÌiÃÊÜ œÊhave completed sessions a prior available one weekto athletes introductory who have sessionhave completed completed or our amiddle prior a prior one school one week week program introductory introductory session or our middle school program session or our middle school program Ideal for students entering Ideal for students entering ™Ì ʜÀÊ£äÌ Ê}À>`itIdeal for students entering ™Ì ʜÀÊ£äÌ Ê}À>`it Learn More & Sign Up! Learn More & Sign Up! www.oaklandstrokes.orgLearn More & Sign Up! www.oaklandstrokes.org www.oaklandstrokes.org callll 510 647-2972647- berkeleyrep.org/summerintensivesi forf r more iinfo Page: D2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 Summer @ Saklan Your passport to the world!

creatively SUMMER CAMPS 2014/#2 think Part 2, Half-Day Camps compassionately act MANDARIN SPANISH ACADEMIC

JAPANESE ITALIAN Summer Bridge Math The Writing Studio - Camp Young FRENCH (Moraga) Writers (Lafayette) see Est. ad 1954 This program, intended to be both fun and A summer camp for young writers that Culture, language and summer educational, is designed to reinforce fun for students ages 3-11 provides both writing instruction and livecourageously™ previous math concepts, while introducing one-on-one sessions for grades 4-9. www.saklan.org future ones. Manipulatives and interactive Writers step into a world of storytelling problem solving will be a part of each and essay based expository writing, session. Groups will consist of no more developing strong writing skills in the than seven students and will meet four process. times over the summer. Mr. Lorie will Hunter Gallaway's lead the sessions. Dates: June 23-July 11 Junior Summer Camp Dates: various dates and times are available Phone: (925) 385-0211 June 2- August 22, 2014. Website: www.lorietutors.com Website: www.lafayettewritingstudio.com Juniors 4-16 years of age. Camp Director: NCAA Division 1 Pro: Carmen Selaru-Stewart Program: Stroke development, drills, live ball games and point play. CREATIVE ARTS Half Day: 9:30 AM-11:30 AM or 1:30-3:30 PM Full Day: 9:30 AM-3:30 PM, includes lunch and swimming. Academy of Language and Music Shakespeare For Kids Contact: [email protected] or Applications online: Arts/ ALMA (Orinda) (Lafayette) www.lafayettetennis.com Sheena: 925-360-7051 Private lessons in all instruments, including guitar, Two-week camp at spacious a Lafayette piano, drums, band instruments, strings and voice. home and garden for kids ages 6-14 Private lessons in languages, including Italian, interested in singing, dancing or acting French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, ESL. Special in short Shakespeare scenes, and more. summer group classes and performing ensembles, Tudor faire, feast and dramatic production including rock combo, jazz combo, vocal ensem- for families at the grande finale at 7 p.m. Amazing Summer Math Camps ble, drum circle, theatre and acting skills. All ages July 18! Tuition is $600 and a limited - The Wide World of Sports Statistics and levels are welcome; located at 99 Brookwood number of partial scholarships will be Play sports and calculate your statistics Rd., Orinda. Dr. James Fiatarone, director. available. - Math-Science Camp Dates: various dates and times available Let your mad scientist meet your mathematician Phone: (925) 254-5056; (925) 254-5053 Dates: July 7-18 (9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) - Classes to Attack Algebra Website: www.alma-leap.com Website: www.Shakespeareforkids.us Prepare for all levels of algebra from pre-algebra to algebra II through games, art and humorous lectures - Get a Jump on Geometry: A fun, hands on class for high school students Little Fingers Wanting to Play! Town Hall Education Summer Camps **** Warning – These classes might trick students (Lafayette) and Classes (Lafayette) into believing that math is fun **** The School of Musical Arts (SOMA) is offering The award-winning Town Hall Theatre If you have further questions feel free to piano lessons for very young children (ages educational programs return this summer contact Michael at [email protected] 3-4). A Grammy award winner, Director featuring skills-based and performance- Classes taught by teacher & experienced Want a great tutor Xiomara Di Maio is well known for her cre- based theatre classes for preschool to high math instructor, Michael Adler who is fun? Individual/small group ative approach, and joyful way of teaching school-aged students. Great for young To enroll contact the Moraga Parks and summer or year round children. Every child has the ability; it just performers as well as students who wish to Rec. Department at www.moraga.ca.us tutoring available needs to be developed! Materials are in- expand their public speaking, social, and or call (925) 888-7036 [email protected] Michael Adler cluded in the tuition. team-working skills. Dates: June 10-13, June 17-20, June 24-27 Dates: June-August

Phone: (925) 878-5159 Phone: (925) 283-6673 Email: [email protected] Website: www.TownHallTheatre.com Open Year-Round • Sign up now! Visit our website for session dates! Sewnow! Fashion Design see The Art Room Summer Day Camp (Lafayette) ad (Lafayette) Skills • Protective Warm Environment Learn fashion design and sewing at sewnow! Students enjoy the creative process while • Private Swim Lessons • Classes in 92°-94° Water fashion studio. A variety of one-week half-day learning art skills in a nurturing environment. for Our goal is to achieve a balance between Life • Diving Lessons and full-day camps for juniors (second and Since 1961 • Parties that make a splash! third grade), kids, and teens are offered. Have building self-esteem and a love of art! Kids fun, learn new skills and walk away with (ages 5-teen) rotate through Outdoor Art unique personalized fashion items. Camps in- Adventure, Aloha Art, and Sunshine stations. clude workbook, fabrics, notions, computer- Full-day or half-day options. Come have fun ized sewing patterns, and custom embroidery. with us! Dates: June-August Phone: (925) 283-7396 Dates: 1 week sessions June 16-Aug. 8 Email: [email protected] Phone: (925) 299-1515 Website: www.sewnow.com Website: www.theart-room.com

925-283-2100 • www.ShermanSwim.com BAY AREA ADVENTURE CAMPS 2014 The ultimate summer adventure day camp experience in the east bay. New in Orinda June 23 -July 11 Adventurers or Explorers Adventure Day Camps • Windsurfing Join THE WRITING STUDIO this summer as our young writers step Campers enjoy a new and exciting summer adventure everyday. The road to summer adventure • Paddle Boarding into a world of CREATIVE STORYTELLING and ESSAY-BASED fun includes instruction by professional bay area Instructors, all admissions to attractions and • Horseback Riding activities, transportation and memories to last a lifetime. 8:30am – 4:30pm. EXPOSITORY WRITING PROJECTS. • Archery Sports Plus or Skateboard Plus Adventure Day Camp • Indoor Skydiving Combines the best in summer sports or skateboard and adventure camps. Morning hours are spent • Six Flags words, correct grammar, usage, and so much more. enjoying a wide variety of the most popular sports (flag football, basketball, soccer, baseball, • Waterworld Lacrosse etc.) or the best local skateparks. Afternoons include Archery, Horseback Riding, Sky High CAMP YOUNG WRITERSWRITERS willwill be be open open to to elementary elementary and and middle middle Sports, Mini Golf, Movies and more. And there’s an all day trip on Fridays to Waterworld. • Sea Kayaking school!8 students from June 23-July 11, 1pm-4pm. Weekly 9am – 4pm M-Fri. Also available as a Half Day (M-Th) Sports only camp. ...and much more. theme-basedG= projects consist of classroom instruction and one-on-one sessions.sessions. MonthlyFee for the fee three-weekis $425 per child.program For isfurther $400. http://bayareaadventurecamp.com (925) 952­4450 For further information, contact lafayet- for more details and sign up soon to reserve your spot in the summer fun. [email protected] call Learn about orour call year-long 925-385-0211 program. Learn at about our year-long program at . www.lafayettewritingstudio.com. THE WRITING STUDIO The Lamorinda Weekly Summer Camp listings are not paid advertising. Our intent is to Where Words Come to Life provide a useful reference guide. In the event we have inadvertently printed misinformation please let us know. LW is not liable for errors or omissions. now! fashion studio

Come play with NCS Champions!

2014 MATS Youth Football Camp For students entering grades 5-8 June 16-19, 1:00-2:30pm Miramonte High School, Orinda More Info: [email protected] 

42nd Year

Lamorinda's Hometown Camp

Located at the Lafayette Reservoir ● Ages 4-16 Free Home Transportation • Free Extended Care

Win a Week of Camp! Sign Up @ www.roughingit.com/lamorinda/

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Tech Camps held at St. Mary’s, UC Berkeley, Stanford, and 80+ Universities Ages 7-18 iDTech.com 1-888-709-TECH (8324) Page: D4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014       SUMMER CAMPS 2014/#2

Part 2, Half-Day Camps

SPORTS

Bay Area Adventure Camps see Oakland Strokes (San Pablo see (Orinda, Concord and Martinez) ad Reservoir or Oakland Estuary) ad Half-Day Multi-Sports Camp keeps the kids The Oakland Strokes summer program is a happy and active enjoying a wide variety of half-day summer camp open to any child sports choices. It is a four-day session multi- sixth through 12th grade. The program is a sports camp where kids choose the sport they "learn to row" program, focused on taking want to enjoy each day. Flag football, kids from never rowing, to being proficient,    basketball, soccer, baseball, lacrosse and more. and teaching the basics and include Dates: June - August conditioning.   !! " " " Time: 9 a.m. to noon; Monday - Thursday only Dates: Various one-week sessions starting #!$  Phone: (925) 952-4450 June 16 Website: :@V:1:C@QJ .V11CR1RV:  .VJ1_%VC7Q%QQ http://bayareadventurecamp.com Email: [email protected] 1.V`VV%;CQ0V1QJVQ`:@1JR*11 :CC .V.1]R Website: www.oaklandstrokes.org .:]]VJ1J;.:G1 : :JRVJ=Q7%J :IVR$:IV5:I:<1J$ V6]V`1IVJ 5H`:<7H`1V`H`: :JR%`]`11J$:R0VJR %`V8*QH@Q%  QQ%`C10VG:JR:JRVJ=Q7GV1J$7Q%* Cougar Youth Football Camp see Sherman Swim School see % %J1_%VC7+*,QJ; I1 .1:1VQIV1VV@* ad ad  %&"'   (Moraga) (Lafayette)     (     )   The Cougar Youth Football Camp A tradition since 1961, Sherman Swim School is 10 Moraga Valley Lane directed by Head Coach Kevin Macy a family business which has taught swimming Moraga, CA 94556 for grades 4-8 is held at Campolindo to over 38,000 students and has produced nu- 925-376-4800 High School. merous diving champions. The combination of       All equipment is supplied, T-shirt is included. one-on-one instruction with patient, encourag-   ing teachers, and extremely comfortable water Registration forms can be found (90-92 degrees), creates an ideal learning envi- at campofootball.com. ronment. Voted "Favorite Swim School" by Lam- orinda Moms. Sessions are 3-4 weeks long. Dates: July 7-18 (M-F); 1:30 to 5 p.m. Dates: T-Th or M-W-F schedules possible. Phone: (925) 283-2100 Website: campofootball.com Website: www.shermanswim.com

Hunter Gallaway's Junior see SMC Summer Camps see EST. 1996 ad ad Summer Camp (Lafayette) (Moraga) Stroke development, drills, live ball games SMC offers 40-plus sports camps on one of the and point for ages 4-16 years of age. The half- most picturesque campuses on the West Coast. day tennis program runs either from 9:30 to Saint Mary's offers boys and girls overnight, day, 11:30 a.m. or 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. A full-day team, and specialty camps for ages 4-18. Early program with lunch and swimming is also bird and extended care available depending on DATES: July 7 thru July 18 (M – F) available. Camp director: NCAA Division 1 Pro camp. Summer 2014 offers all sports, baseball, TIMES: 1:30 – 5:00 P.M. Carmen Selaru-Stewart. Applications are basketball, lacrosse, running, soccer, softball, FEES: $320 (T-shirt included) available online. tennis and volleyball camps. Dates: June 2- Aug. 22 Dates: various dates and times available FOR REGISTRATION FORMS, CONTACT: Contact: [email protected] or Phone: (925) 631-4FUN (4386) 925/280-3950 x-5163, [email protected] Sheena at (925) 360-7051 Email: [email protected]. or download registration form at campofootball.com Website: www.lafayettetennis.com Website: www.smcgaels.com, click "camps"

MATS Youth Football Camp see Tennis Camp -Moraga Valley see ad ad (Orinda) Swim and Tennis Club (Orinda) Come play with NCS Champions! For stu- This three-hour program from 11:30 a.m. to ORION ACADEMY dents entering grades 5-8, fall 2014. Attend 2:30 p.m. includes tennis instruction from ASPERGER’S / NLD HIGH SCHOOL this fun, non-contact camp to learn the fun- USPTA certified coaches and a swim/ lunch damentals of football, develop offensive and period with fun and games. Hourly classes defensive skills at every position and be are also available. Scott Borowiak USPTA Cer- guided by current and former MATS players tified Coach. Enjoy team building Teens learn about the Pacific and Coach Schram. Cost: $125 Dates: Weekly sessions June 16 to Aug. 15 acvies. Go Geocaching, ocean and coast while vising Dates: June 16-19; 1 to 2:30 p.m. Phone: (925) 284-1102 learn to use a GPS to an aquarium, the Marine search for hidden caches Mammal Reserve, and de Phone: (925) 280-3950, ext. 5163. Email: [email protected] while hiking in California's pools. Website: [email protected] Website: www.Moragavalleypol.org most beauful parks. Experience rock climbing and learn to belay, edge and jam with a VARIETY CAMPS professional climber. www.orionacademy.org City of Lafayette - Recreation Summer Moraga Parks & Recreation Summer Camps (Lafayette) Camps (Moraga) 925-377-0789 Soccer, cheerleading, cooking, dance, Parks make life better ... and so do summer fencing, theater, lacrosse, Mad Science, camps! A variety of camps are offered Spanish, engineering, LEGOs, tennis, through the Moraga Parks and Recreation Critters-N-Clay, music, robotics, hip-hop, Department: Camp Hacienda, Bricks 4 Kidz, RC car racing, basketball, golf, chess and Eurosoccer, IncrediFlix, Kindercool, Moraga more! Sports Camp, Skyhawks Sports, music, math, Christian Adventure Camp public speaking, scuba, writing, and much Willow Spring Church / Moraga Dates: various dates and times available more! Registration is currently open. Dates: various dates and times available July 14 – 18 8:30 – 12:30 Phone: (925) 284-2232 Phone: (925) 888-7045 925-376-3550 Website: www.LafayetteRec.org Website: www.moraga.ca.us $60.00 / Financial Aid Available K - 6th graders are invited to become special agents City of Orinda Recreation Camps in “Agency D3” and (Orinda) Discover, A variety of half-day camps offered for ages 3-15: Orinda Kids (OK) Camp, Orinda Summer Decide and Enrichment Program – Rainforest Adventure, art, babysitting, clay, carpentry, dance, Defend the engineering, gymnastics, musical theater (including Sound of Music, Peter Pan, Cinderella, truth about Aladdin, Little Mermaid, Willie Wonka, Wizard of Oz and Tangled.), Nature Camp and sports! Jesus Dates: June 10 - Aug. 23

Phone: (925) 254-2445 Website: www.cityoforinda.org www.willowspringchruch.net Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: D5 SUMMER CAMPS 2014 /#2

Part 2, Half-Day Camps

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOLS see Christian Adventure Camp ad (Moraga) K - 6th graders are invited to become special agents in Agency D3 and Discover, Decide and Defend the truth about Jesus at Willow Spring Church in Moraga. Cost: $60; financial aid is available.

Dates: July 14 - 18; 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Phone: (925) 376-3550 Website: www.willowspringchruch.net

Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church (Moraga) "Uniquely You Zoo." Take a walk on the wild side! Ages range from children who are 4 years old LLEY SWIM & TE (by June 23) to those entering fifth grade in the fall. ORAGA VA NNIS CLUB Cost: $70 per child. M Dates: June 23 -27; 9 a.m. to noon Come Join Phone: (925) 376-4800 Website: www.mvpctoday.org the Fun!

SonTreasure Island (Lafayette) Aloha! SonTreasure Island features island music, rousing skits, coconut crafts, hula hoop games, tropical fruit snacks, and treasure-hunting adventure! For kids in preschool - eighth grade. Special program for middle-schoolers includes field trips to serve at CC Food Bank, Monument Crisis Center, etc. Lafayette United Methodist Church, 955 Open House Moraga Rd., Lafayette. All children welcome. Cost: $50/child. Dates: June 23 - 27; 9 a.m. to noon April 12th Phone: (925) 284-4765 1:00-3:00 pm Email: [email protected], Website: www.thelumc.org sNEW!#LAY4ENNIS#OURTS s,ANESFORLAPSWIMMING DIVETANK BABYPOOLANDEXPANSIVEGREENSPACE THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BOTANICAL GARDEN s,EARN TO 3WIMLESSONSAND -ASTERSPROGRAM s-60-ARLINS3WIM4EAM s9EAR ROUNDADULTANDJUNIORTENNIS UC Botanical Garden’s PROGRAMSWITH5304!CERTIlEDCOACHES Outdoor Science Day Camp Memberships Available 6ISITMORAGAVALLEYPOOLORGOREMAIL nature journals animal studies for the 2014 Season MEMBERSHIP MORAGAVALLEYPOOLORG edible gardening plant science crafts & more!

JUNE 16 - AUGUST 15 Weekly sessions 9am - 2pm Swim Team Registration is Now Open $240/$220 members Only 12 campers per week. CALL (510) 643-2755 BOTANICALGARDEN.BERKELEY.EDU

You may download our Summer Camp Guide: www.lamorindaweekly.com CAL

camps.berkeley.edu 510 643 2267 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: E1

New Coach, New Direction By Scott Wu

Follow us on Twitter@ Lamorinda Sports

Sophomore Anthony Gonsolin singled and pitched in the loss to Pepperdine on Sunday. Photos Tod Fierner tive program in our conference, but With a new coach in Valenzuela also nationwide,” Valenzuela said. and the program on the rise, the Gaels Senior pitcher Ryan Brockett (4- have a lot to look forward to. Brock- 3) attributes much of the team’s ac- ett predicts a bright future for the pro- complishments to the new system gram. “Mark my words, Saint Mary’s under Valenzuela. “It’s a new pro- will be known for baseball in five to gram with a work ethic that is im- six years,” he said. proved and a selfless attitude,” Brockett said. Brockett, who is 8-8 in league play thus far in his career, acknowl- edged that Valenzuela works with players to develop their skills. “His ability to develop talent gives the team a new perspective,” he ex- Family & Cosmetic Dentistry plained. Echoing the “team first” philos- ophy, Brockett is focused on the Now WCC championships and team suc- Ryan Brockett is focused on team success. cess. “I want to pitch in and win a accepting conference tournament,” he ex- new cuses. We look in the mirror instead plained. “I want to keep progressing of pointing fingers,” he stated. in my college career and give my patients! Valenzuela believes that his team team the chance to win that they de- is capable of playing at a very com- serve,” he said. petitive level in the WCC. Currently Valenzuela has made an impres- Kristi L. Doberenz, D.D.S., Inc. in fourth place with a league record sion on his freshman recruits as well. 8 Camino Encinas, STE #110, Orinda of 5-4, the Gaels have shown that “Coach Valenzuela preaches hard (925) 254-3725 they can do just that. work and deserving the right to win,” The team has faced challenges, said freshman pitcher Cameron Neff though. Last weekend, the Gaels (5-3). “We have a great chance to be struggled offensively and were swept the most competitive team in our by the WCC-leading Pepperdine conference if we keep working hard,” Waves. Nonetheless, Saint Mary’s he said. has been able to compete with na- A pitcher with a dominant fast- tionally ranked teams, beating No. 9 ball, Neff was named WCC Pitcher Cameron Neff Cal State Fullerton on March 15. of the Week in mid-March. He chose Kyle Davis With the second half of the sea- to commit to the Saint Mary’s base- Mortgage Consultant/Owner/Partner ith a new head coach and a son approaching, the Gaels will look ball program because he believed the Lamorinda Resident Since 1995 Wstrong regular season start, to continue their conference success team would offer him a smooth tran- BRE License #01111347/NMLS #274107 the Saint Mary’s Gaels’ (5-4 WCC, and make a run in the WCC Confer- sition to the next level of competition. Direct: 925-314-5299 ence Tournament. 13-17 overall) baseball program is “At first I was nervous, but as I [email protected] up-and-coming. New head coach Valenzuela is optimistic about the gained more experience and maturity Eric Valenzuela brings experience direction of the team. “I think that I began to pitch better,” he said of his 319 Diablo Rd., Ste 103 • Danville • CA BRE Lic. # 01327738, NMLS#280803 and expertise to the Gaels’ coaching we’ll not only be a highly competi- transition to the collegiate level. staff. RATES ARE NEAR ALL TIME LOWS! A former pitching coach and re- 30 YEAR FIXED RATE TO $1,000,000! cruiting coordinator at San Diego State, Valenzuela has shown his abil- 4.500% /4.590% APR ity to attract talented prospects. In GREAT CONFORMING RATES! 2010 and 2011, his San Diego State Fixed Rates to $417,000 Fixed Rates to $625,500 recruiting classes were ranked in the RATE APR RATE APR top 25 by Baseball America. In 2013, 30 Year Fixed 4.250% 4.250% 4.500% 4.500% Valenzuela’s pitching staff led the Mountain West Conference in the 15 Year Fixed 3.250% 3.250% 3.500% 3.500% majority of statistical categories and “PROVIDING PREMIER LOAN PRODUCTS AND SERVICE FROM helped the team win its first confer- THE MOST EXPERIENCED AND SOLUTION-ORIENTED ence title since 2000. PROFESSIONALS IN YOUR COMMUNITY.” Valenzuela preaches a message of hard work and focus. “I teach my Call 925-314-5299 for Today’s Quote! This is not a loan commitment, nor is it a guarantee players three aspects of the game: of any kind. This comparison is based solely on throw strikes, execute offensively, estimated figures and information available at the time of production. Interest rate is subject to and play great defense,” Valenzuela borrower and property qualifying. Stonecastle Land and Home Financial, Inc. is an explained. “My guys don’t make ex- Trevor Ellison looks to beat the throw. Equal Opportunity Lender. Page: E2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 High School Lacrosse at Mid-Season Boys' top spot up for grabs Softball Mid-Season Report By Marissa Harnett By Hannah Raslan

Jack Mariani Photos Gint Federas s high school boys’ lacrosse nears the top spot, Campo and Miramonte compete for Amid-season point, all three Lamorinda the third spot. teams sit in close contention. Acalanes has the Just before spring break, Miramonte hosted slight edge with a 4-1 league record (7-1 over- Campo in their first meeting of the season. The all). Campolindo and Miramonte are tied in the Cougars came out on top, taking the game 11- DFAL standings at 3-2. Overall Campo has 5. earned a few more wins than the Mats, notching Campo won the first face-off gaining pos- a 7-3 record to Miramonte’s 4-4. As in recent session and control at the outset. They deftly years, Acalanes occupies a high position in the passed the ball around the goal, aiming to spread standings. However, this year the reigning out and tire the defense, but Miramonte forced DFAL and NCS champion gave up its unde- a turn-over which resulted in the first goal and feated status and top spot in the DFAL to the only lead of the game for the Mats. Campo an- very strong Las Lomas. swered back, took the lead, and never let go. The Dons faced Las Lomas on March 25 Miramonte managed to keep the Cougars to a and walked away with a 7-9 loss. “Las Lomas one goal differential up to halftime. was focused and we were lacking,” said head After the half, Campo kept winning posses- coach Brent Ringwood. sion and spread the score, netting six more goals Despite a tough loss, Ringwood said it was to Miramonte’s one. a lesson his team needed. “As much as I don't “They controlled every aspect of the game,” like to lose league games, it was the wake up said Miramonte head coach David Winford. Alex Grant-Hudd has been solid for the Dons. Photos Gint Federas call our guys needed to understand that no one “Coach Frey did a great job of having his team was going to crown them anything just because ready. In the second half, we couldn't keep the s spring sets in, softball players from “Things are going better than I expected. they think you are good,” Ringwood explained. ball on offense and Campo capitalized on that AAcalanes, Campolindo, and Miramonte The team improves every game,” said Acalanes’ After the loss, the team learned that every- by scoring more points than we did,” he added. grab their gloves and hit the field. In the 2014 head coach Victor Silva. “It is a young team and one is looking to dethrone the reigning champi- Despite the loss to Campo, Winford is softball season, the Lamorinda teams are made I didn’t think we would be this good this fast.” ons. “There is a target on our back and we are pleased with how the team is developing so far up of a mix of experienced players and brand Sophomores Alex Grant-Hudd and Kaitlyn going to get the other team’s best every game. this season. Seniors Matt Moran, Patrick Swan, new athletes, creating an exciting atmosphere Johnson, junior Terri Taylor, and senior Madi- The kids know that and I think they respond Jackson Doyle and Jack Murphy have played a for inter-district competition. son Maderious have been integral to the team’s well to the expectations,” he said. vital role. The Cougars have had an interesting start success. Shortstop Maderious and first baseman While Ringwood recognizes that focus has “Our team leaders have done a fine job of to their season – with a unique combination of Johnson were both All-DFAL players last year, been a challenge, he credits depth of talent for setting high expectations for the team and have elite players and novice athletes – but they put racking up multiple homeruns this season, while their successes. “We have multiple players at helped the new varsity players to adapt to the in a lot of effort to create a cohesive team. Grant-Hudd and Taylor show strength in pitch- every position that are capable of playing the varsity level of play,” Winford explained. “The girls are working hard,” said Cam- ing. The Dons are optimistic that the rest of the biggest minutes of the toughest games,” he On April 15, Miramonte travels to Acalanes polindo head coach Bill McLaughlin. “We have season will go smoothly, as they get ready to noted. “No one is looking to just get their stats. to complete first round play. Teams will then a lot of new girls on the team. A few girls have face Las Lomas and Miramonte in upcoming Instead, they are much more focused on getting get another chance to defeat their rivals when not played softball before, so we are just going weeks. the win.” the second round of league games begins on over fundamentals and getting ready for the sec- Miramonte is simply looking to improve While Acalanes and Las Lomas vie for the April 18. ond half of the season.” their team this season, taking things one game So far, the Cougars are 1-3 in DFAL. They at a time. With a new coach and a talented group triumphed over Las Lomas in their first league of girls, the Mats are ready for action. game of the year, winning 14-4. But they lost to “As a new coach my goals for the season Alhambra, Dougherty Valley, and Acalanes. are to improve the image of the sport at the Win or lose, sophomore Zoe Marrot, juniors school and in the area by being more competi- Danielle Thomas and Charlotte McNeil, and tive in league games and impressing the impor- senior Kristen Ghamghami have all been vital tance of dedication and hard work on my team,” to the Cougars’ success this season, leading the said head coach Emily Hunt. team on and off the field. The girls are all re- The Mats are 1-2, defeating Las Lomas 10- turning starters. McLaughlin hopes that with 1, but losing to Dougherty Valley 6-0 and Al- these players, the team will be successful. hambra 14-0. Key contributors for the Mats are “Hopefully we can get some of these key junior Caitlin Kozicki, who leads the team, players in the right position, make a run in the sophomore Amanda DeVecchi, one of the second half [of the season] and make NCS play- team’s best hitters, and senior Gina Pagan, a offs,” said McLaughlin, who looks forward to solid pitcher. showcasing his team’s abilities on April 10 “We are looking forward to playing Cam- when they play at home against Dublin. “At this polindo and Acalanes for the first time this year point, every game is big.” and competing against them better than we have Acalanes hopes to continue winning to fin- in years past,” said Hunt. “[NCS] would be a ish the season strong. The Dons are 2-1 in great goal for the girls to have but right now we league, defeating Campolindo and Dublin by are just focusing on improving as individual scores of 6-2 and 6-4 respectively, but losing to players and as a team.” Alhambra with a final score of 21-1. Will Rack looks down field.

Senior Patrick Swan has been a leader for the Mats. Charlotte McNeil, a returning starter, has been a leader for the Cougars. Wednesday, April 9, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: E3

Cal Magic Earns Championship CLAM Aims for NCS Submitted by Greg Davis Submitted by Marie Estorge

Back row, from left: Kate Minden, Kierra Krawec, Mia Grillo, Sam DeVecchi, Jackie Nichols, Emily Smith, Isabel Hough, Kaitlin DeVries, Keeley Murphy, Coach Haris Obic; front row: Anya Chester Halstead Photo Dana Piercy Li, Annie Midthun, Molly Ikeya, Holland McDonald, Lauren Van Stralen, Rachel Brickman, Molly LAM and Berkeley had a dual meet on second and third, respectively. Campo’s Tim Davis Photo provided CMarch 22, and Lamorinda divers recorded Lovelace finished first in boys’. many top finishes. In JV girls, Acalanes’ Maggie Phillips and alifornia Magic U14 girls took home an- together for three months for the high school Acalanes’ Sarah Koenigsberg qualified for Campolindo’s Jessica Sanborn also finished other championship in the competitive Ju- soccer season break, but they jumped back into C the NCS dive meet with a score of 282.00. second and third. Campolindo’s Chester Hal- ventus Northern California Spring Showcase on club soccer with ease. Coach Haris Obic said, In Future Champions, Acalanes’ Laura Con- stead recorded a top finish on the boys’ side. March 8-9. "These girls have so much passion for this nolly and Miramonte’s Emily Stewart finished The Magic U14 girls’ team had not played game." Success Starts Early Swimming at College Submitted by Steven Peterson Submitted by Tracy Fu he Lamorinda Rugby club has Thad a busy season. The U10 Open team became the NorCal Champions, defeating Silicon Valley in the semifinal and the Pleasanton Cavaliers in the final on March 15. The U12 Open and Lights teams took third and second place. On March 22-23, the Middle School Gold team placed second in the year end Nor- Cal tournament. The Light team finished third.

U10 team takes title. Photo provided Serious Series Front row, from left: Rachel Cleak (Cal Poly), Padon Sivesind (Cal Poly), Jenny Hu (Tufts), Megan Fuqua (Boston College), Jenna Haufler (Pomona), Megan Howard (Navy), Shannon Herman Submitted by Lynn McAuliffe (SDSU), Meghan Biomong (USCB), Andrea Ward (UCSB), Megan Liang (Frankling & Marshall), Camille Cadwell (Cal Poly), Sam Flower (UCSB), Devin Kennedy (Pitzer); back row: Albert Miao (UCSB), Erica Muller (Pacific Lutheran), Steven Stumph (USC), Courtney Whyte (Notre Dame), Chris Peterson (UCSB), Chris Leon (Cal), Megan Freeman (Emory), Mollie Larsen (Cal Poly), Cameron Hoyh (Rider), and Katy Yeh (Lewis & Clark). Photo provided uring the 2013-14 season, Orinda Aquat- leg of the 200 medley relay team. Dics had 38 alums competing in collegiate At the NCAA DIII Championship, Brooke aquatic programs throughout the country. Woodward (’10 Miramonte) competed for Some of these swimmers qualified for the Emory University in three individual events. NCAA Swimming and Diving Championship. This was her fourth championship meet. Alyssa In addition to Andrea Ward (see our March 26 Levine, a senior representing Williams College, issue), Courtney Whyte (’11 Campo and current competed as well. University of Notre Dame junior) swam the fly

First Tournament, First Title Paul Gannet pitched a no hitter against San Ramon. Photo provided Submitted by John Zuber he Moraga Baseball Association’s Ramon Slammers in a pitchers’ duel. Paul T14U Mavericks are 3-3 after two Gannett pitched a no hitter, and the Mav- weekends of three-game series. The team ericks won 3-0. The team then went 2-1 recorded its first win against the San against the Fremont Titans. Performing in the Classroom, Pool Submitted by Jessica Bernheim

Adam Streeter Photo provided Top row, from left: Coach Jon Zuber, Owen Hansen, Brett Donat, Grant Harper, Colby Burns, dam Streeter, former Campolindo Cougar Scholar-Athlete Team. Will Windatt, Kade Shipp, Grant Daley; bottom row: Nicolas Bamont, Mark McCurdy, Nick Kres- Aand current water polo player for The Streeter has not only performed well in the nak, Kyle Sintchak, Vince Bianchina Photo Matt Hansen George Washington University, was honored for classroom, but he has been an important con- he 12U Seals baseball club of Lamor- day, they defeated the San Ramon Slammers his academic performance. Streeter recorded a tributor in the pool. He recorded 11 goals, six Tinda entered their first tournament 13-3. They faced the Slammers in the next cumulative grade point average between 3.71- assists, and 22 steals this season. He ranks sec- March 22-23 and walked away with a title. game and won 9-1. In the championship, the 4.0 while playing water polo for the school. This ond on the team with 16 field blocks, and is tied Lamorinda opened play against Sierra Valley Seals beat East Bay All Sports Dawgs 6-4 for is the fourth time Streeter was named to the Col- for the fifth-highest single season total in pro- Storm. They earned a 14-1 win. Later that the title. legiate Water Polo Association Men’s Varsity gram history. Page: E4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 DFAL All-League Teams inter was a good season for the Lamorinda sports teams. Lamorinda recorded playoff Wberths in each sport and took the North Coast Section title for girls’ soccer and girls’ basketball. The Diablo Foothill Athletic League honored the tremendous performances of in- dividuals hard at work during the regular season. The girls’ soccer programs qualified two teams to the NCS tournament. Miramonte earned the No.1 seed, but No. 3 Campolindo took home the NCS title. Miramonte’s Megan Reid and Mali Tehany were named Most Valuable Player and Most Valuable Defensive Player, respec- tively. Campolindo’s Emily Orwig was named Most Valuable Offensive Player. First Team: Jane Fessenden, Miramonte Gina Crosetti, Miramonte Cecilia Gee, Miramonte Samantha Vankoll, Campolindo Lauren Petite, Campolindo Gus Keeble, Campolindo Seth Kofman, Campolindo Michael Samaniego, Campolindo Phoebe Wixsom, Acalanes

Eric Sirott, Acalanes Pat Ramm, Acalanes Ryan Donat, Compolindo Jane Fessenden, Miramonte Gina Crosetti, Miramonte Cecilia Gee, Miramonte Second Team: Chase Corallo, Campolindo Preston Kilwien, Campolindo Will Simmons, Campolindo Lucien Chan, Acalanes Zach Kramer, Acalanes Ruwan Thilakaratne, Miramonte Honorable Mention: Ben Lenz, Acalanes Nathan Ferreira, Acalanes Thomas Pathoumthong, Acalanes Zach Taylor, Campolindo Jeff Lefcourt, Campolindo Kaj Simonsen, Acalanes Samantha Vankoll, Campolindo Lauren Petite, Campolindo Phoebe Wixsom, Acalanes Jack Price, Campolindo Reece Roberts, Miramonte Joseph Wang, Miramonte Jarrett Visher, Miramonte

All three boys’ basketball teams qualified for the NCS tournament and the NorCal CIF tournament. Chris Hansen of Campolindo was named the DFAL Most Valuable Player. First Team:

Megan Reid, Miramonte Mali Tehany, Miramonte Emily Orwig, Campolindo Second Team: Samantha Devecchi, Miramonte Maggie MaGuire, Miramonte Sarah Mills, Miramonte Bailey Yuen, Campolindo Danielle Brown, Campolindo Gabby Paolini, Acalanes Honorable Mention: Caroline Clark, Acalanes Bella Gotts, Acalanes Blake Balfrey, Acalanes Lindsay Wilson, Campolindo Buster Souza, Acalanes Andrew Zolintakis, Campolindo Drew Anderson, Miramonte Melissa Wilson, Campolindo Buster Souza, Acalanes Bridget Coleman, Campolindo Andrew Zolintakis, Campolindo Maya Sherne, Miramonte Drew Anderson, Miramonte Kayla Sigaroudi, Miramonte Kelly McKeen, Miramonte Second Team: Matt O’Reilly, Campolindo The girls’ basketball teams sent two teams to the post-season. Miramonte claimed Joey Goodreault, Miramonte the No. 1 seed and Campolindo the No. 3. Miramonte swept through the NCS playoffs to Matt Thomas, Acalanes earn the title. Miramonte’s Sabrina Ionescu was named the DFAL Most Valuable Player. Honorable Mention: First Team: Chris Hansen, Compolindo Justin Dunn, Campolindo Jackson Wegener, Miramonte Lamorinda wrestling had strong individual and team performances. Cam- polindo’s team earned a berth to the NCS playoffs. Campo’s Jackson Wiley and Grant Smith earned top spots in the tournament. Wiley notched a fourth place finish in the 182 lbs. weight class and Smith a sixth place finish in the 126 lbs. Acalanes’ Andrew Naka- hara earned an eighth place finish for the 138 lbs. weight class. First Team:

Bree Alford, Miramonte Megan Reid, Miramonte Ashley Ewing, Campolindo Bree Alford, Miramonte Megan Reid, Miramonte Ashley Ewing, Campolindo Second Team: Keana Delos Santos, Miramonte Julia Lyons, Acalanes Grant Smith, Campolindo Jackson Wiley, Campolindo Aidan Kohr, Miramonte Brooke Panfili, Campolindo Grant Smith, Campolindo Mariah Seals, Miramonte Jackson Wiley, Campolindo Honorable Mention: Aidan Kohr, Miramonte Uriah Howard, Miramonte Second Team: Kaylyn Murray, Campolindo Sabrina Ionescu, Miramonte Andrew Nakahara Justin Joss, Miramonte The boys’ soccer programs also sent two teams, Acalanes and Camplindo, Brian Lillienstien, Acalanes to the NCS playoffs. Campo’s Ryan Donat was named Most Valuable Player and Alex Jang, Miramonte Acalanes’ Kaj Simonsen was named Most Valuable Offensive Player. Trevor Martinho, Campolindo First Team: Jeremy Dunbar, Campolindo Gus Keeble, Campolindo Honorable Mention: Seth Kofman, Campolindo Tai White, Acalanes Michael Samaniego, Campolindo Dev Galang, Miramonte Eric Sirott, Acalanes Sam Ridge, Acalanes Pat Ramm, Acalanes Keai Lucasey, Campolindo Kyle Visher, Miramonte (not pictured) Leo Zepada, Miramonte