VOLUME XLIX, NUMBER 4 Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012

Changing Weather Makes Cattle Business a Gamble Even as storm clouds gathered the rain return, or will the rest of In a typical year, Banke man- cattle are healthy and have ad- The herds typically consist of last week following two of the the winter be dry? ages 240-360 steers in pastures equate food during the winter yearling steers called stockers driest months in memory, lo- Some ranchers, like Liver- at the southeast end of Del Valle. months. Like most ranchers, that are weaned and can fend cal cattle ranchers were trying more’s Paul Banke, made the This year, the herd belongs to Banke is a good amateur vet- for themselves. If they arrive to evaluate the business con- decision to ship some cattle out Monson Ranches of eastern erinarian. “Eighty percent of the in November, the year turns wet sequences of the lack of grass to make room for others. Some, Washington State. Last week, problems I see, I know what to and the grass grows tall, it is rea- caused by the drought. like San Ramon's Jeff Nielsen, because of the lack of grass, he do,” he says. Being competent sonable to expect a gain of 300 This week, there seemed to be were postponing the decision a sent off 100 head to a small feed- also means knowing when to pounds or more per head by the as many questions as answers. little longer. “If it gets dry again, lot in Winnemucca, Nev., to make call in a professional vet, which time they are ready for shipping Winter grass is vital for cattle we’ll have to send some away,” room for 173 that remained. he does when necessary. But he to a processing center in spring. to gain weight. A skinny cow he said. He also has cattle of his own, runs a business, and if he can Shipping off 100 head in Find Out What's brings little return. The inch Banke is a third generation 280 cow-calf pairs that he hopes keep the cattle healthy at no cost January means taking a loss, at Happening or two of rain that fell over the rancher who raises his own cattle to build up to perhaps 350 pairs by his own efforts, he does. least on those. Despite the recent Check out the weekend will start the grass and manages herds for others. if the rain returns. In managing herds that be- rain, there is no guarantee that the growing again, but how much Hikers at Del Valle Regional Park Managing herds for distant long to others, Banke receives rest of the winter will be much second section and how fast? Once started, will often see his managed herds. owners means making sure the payment based on weight gain. (See CATTLE, page 12) Section II is filled with infor- mation about arts, entertainment and special events. There are education stories, a variety of features, and the arts and enter- Livermore tainment and bulletin board. School Board Planning Begins To Bring Back Selects New The 4th of July Trustee Festivities The Livermore Valley A group of volunteers has Joint Unified School District begun the effort to bring back (LVJUSD) Board of Trustees ap- Livermore’s 4th of July fire- pointed Belia Martinez as Trustee works. after public interviews of seven The 2011 fireworks were prospective candidates were held canceled due to budget shortfalls on Saturday, January 21, 2012. for both the City of Livermore The open seat was created and LARPD. The goal is to when Stewart Gary was elected bring back the event this year. to the Livermore City Council in Decisions would need to be November. The new trustee was made quickly in order to reserve installed at the January 24, 2012 the fireworks by the March 31 Board of Education meeting and deadline. Half the cost of the will serve through December fireworks would have to be paid 2012, when Gary’s term would at that time. have ended. The City of Livermore and Martinez brings with her Livermore Area Recreation and a broad range of experience. Park District (LARPD) hosted a Photo - Doug Jorgensen Raised in south Texas in an un- session last Wednesday to gauge The brown hills caused by dry weather have raised concerns among cattle ranchers in the area. the level of interest in holding derprivileged background, she the annual fireworks show. Last recognized the importance of night, Jan. 25, the volunteers met a formal education and the op- to discuss options. portunities it would present for At the first meeting, Assistant CalTrans to Start Over on a 2nd Niles Canyon Area's EIR her future. After graduating from City Manager Troy Brown and By Ron McNicoll dered in November by a judge the east end near Sunol, might not the standard 3:1 ratio of new high school, she enlisted in the LARPD Assistant General Man- CalTrans will start all over to settle with critics. have the environmental review habitat to replace lost habitat. United States Army. Her first tour ager John Lawrence provided again on its Niles Canyon road It was not until Jan. 19 at process restarted, said Jeff Miller, Gregory Townsend, a spokesman was in Korea, followed by Wash- input on what the task would improvement project's EIR for a meeting with stakeholders director of the Alameda Creek for CalTrans, said that he could ington State where she served her entail. Phase 2, adding it to the previ- in Oakland that CalTrans an- Alliance (ACA). not confirm that. country and earned financial as- Lawrence said, “We believe ously announced fresh start it nounced it will begin the EIR Miller also said that CalTrans Miller and others oppose the sistance for a college education. this is something that can happen. will take for the phase 1 EIR. process over again on phase 2, is trying to obtain a favorable bridge project's design, claiming Returning to Texas, she enrolled The consensus is that people re- CalTrans agreed about a as well. change from the U.S. Fish & that the road will be straightened at Texas Woman’s University and ally want to see fireworks.” month ago to start over on its However, phase 3, which is Wildlife Service. CalTrans would out so much that it will encourage received a Bachelor’s Degree in Key factors identified were phase 1 project, after being or- the reconstruction of a bridge at like a lower mitigation rate than (See CALTRANS, page 12) Business with a concentration in the need for a solid community Finance. Following graduation, based structure to provide ongo- she worked as an Account Man- ing support in the form of fund- ager for Consolidated Freight raising, a clear understanding of Zone 7 Freezes Flood Control Fee, Approves Funds To Study It Way, Project Manager for Veri- the type of event to be held, the zon and Information Technology cost, and a venue. As expected, Zone 7 Water spoke at the public hearing. The oppose it. On long term goals about any Lawrence talked about LAR- Agency directors have frozen board also discussed the item at Livermore city engineer Cheri future rise in the fee, Sheets said, Recruiter for Source EDP, and PD’s cost. Based on previous 4th the flood control fee this year at its December meeting. Sheets had in mind encouraging "We want it to reflect what we are a Real Estate Agent for Wind- of July celebrations, continuation $1 per square foot of covered, The Valley cities in which more development when she told paying for." ermere. of the event would require a impermeable surface. developers deal with the flood the Independent, "We are pleased Zone 7 adopted a long-term In her many years as a Liver- $45,750 subsidy. Total expenses The board acted unanimously control fee were all aware of the that the fee is not going up this Stream Management Master more resident, she has immersed are $75,750. However, revenue at its meeting on Jan. 18. No one proposed fee freeze, and did not year. It will help." (See ZONE 7, page 4) (See TRUSTEE, page 12) is provided by parking, sales, admission, and vendors. He said that volunteers may be able to produce the event at a Fewer Resources Available lower costs. Brown said that city staff had To Deal with Growing brainstormed and reduced the cost to the city from $53,071 to $7,970. This was accomplished Human Services Needs by assigning the celebration as a Valley communities will use a training day for police personnel, in services. It provides us with reducing the cost for the depart- report on human services needs an idea of where to focus limited ment from $24,607 to $3000. The assessment to target funding to funds." city eliminated a $7500 grant to produce the greatest impact. The good news, according LARPD. Public works labor, Both the Livermore and to Prasher, is that income and estimated at 145 hours at a cost Pleasanton city councils heard a employment rates are higher in of $16,000, was eliminated by summary of the report at meet- this area than the rest of Alameda taking hours from other jobs the ings this week. County. Linguistic isolation, par- employees undertake, such as The study was a collaboration ticularly among Spanish speak- trimming trees. among Livermore, Pleasanton ers, is decreasing. However, the The venue would also have to and Dublin. It analyzed systems, isolation of Pacific islanders be determined. It could still be not the performance of any indi- is growing. Prasher noted that held at Robertson Park. However, vidual program. there are high quality schools. Lawrence explained that the 13 Mayor John Marchand point- In addition, the services that acres belonging to the school ed out that the report notes that are provided are of high quality district that had previously been the Tri-Valley is the county's and respect the diversity of the used for parking has been sold stepchild. It doesn't receive its Tri-Valley. The multi-service and is no longer available. In share of funds. "There is a huge center is known as a welcoming addition, soccer fields are being need." and effective one-stop to obtain converted to artificial turf. The Livermore Human Services services. new surface can’t be used for Program Manager Jean Prasher The bad news is that there is Photo - Doug Jorgensen large event seating. told the council that the study Other locations that may work a growing demand for services, Shad Balch, GM environment and energy policy and communication representative, demonstrates include Wente Vineyards, Con- let's us know the strengths of the result of a growing population how to use the new charging stations for electric vehicles. Five stations have been installed in cannon Vineyard or Las Positas programs and identifies the gaps (See SERVICES, page 12) downtown Pleasanton. For the story, see page 2. College. However, Robertson still may be the best alternative, according to Lawrence. PET OF THE WEEK Councilmember Stewart Gary Inside Hello, my name is Scamp! I am a handsome orange tabby commented on the location dur- who comes with my own brush! I love to be brushed so ing Monday’s council meeting, Art & Entertainment...... Section II Roundup...... 3 much, I may even drool.... I am very easy going. Some call noting that gaining buy-in from me a gentle giant. I am a quiet love and will head butt you permitting agencies and neigh- Bulletin Board...... Section II Short Notes...... 9 and enjoy every bit of your lap; snuggling is the best! I am bors may be difficult at a new Classifieds...... 11 Sports...... 6 eight years old and waiting patiently for my fur-ever home. site. One residents suggested that Editorial...... 4 Obituaries...... 9 Go online to www.valleyhumane.org or www.facebook.com/ ValleyHumaneSociety to see other adoptable dogs and cats Mailbox...... 4 waiting for a home. Valley Humane Society is located at 3670 (See 4th OF JULY, page 2) Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Photo courtesy of David Smith PAGE 2 - The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012

A NEW KIND OF Ubehebe is the largest of a 4th OF JULY TELESCOPE dozen craters in a 1.2 square mile (continued from page one) A new kind of telescope, to section of Death Valley. Finding was run in the past. Reduced be built on a mountain in the that it last blew centuries rather the money spent on the Amgen hours, with just a fireworks show, Chilean Andes, will be able to than millennia ago suggests that bicycle event could go towards could reduce the costs. survey the entire sky so often significant energy remains for financing the fireworks. He asked Of the approximately 30 peo- and in such detail that it will another explosion, according to if the Amgen event were profit- ple in attendance, a dozen people provide astronomers a virtual the researchers, who published able? volunteered to form a community motion picture of objects mov- an account of their findings in Brown said it was profitable. action group to explore possible ing and changing too subtly to Geophysical Research Letters. Visitors bring in a lot of money. ways to bring the event back to be seen readily today. Study co-author Brent Goeh- This year, as an overnight stop, Livermore. Wendy Weathers, Astronomers believe that a million or more dynamic changes ring said that the explosion 800 years ago would have killed any the city will receive revenues who has raised funds for Open might be visible in the cosmos every night if the means were avail- creature living within two miles. The research team emphasized from the transient occupancy tax Heart Kitchen, volunteered to able to see them. These are phenomena that are scientifically im- that the findings should not be considered a reason not to visit paid through hotels. help collect funds for the 4th of July. School board member portant, like very distant exploding stars, as well as closer-to-home Death Valley. Shallow earthquakes and new steam vents would al- Audience members in atten- dance asked what role the city Kate Runyon suggested that the objects, like big rocks that might smash into Earth at thousands of most certainly precede any return of explosiveness and give plenty and park district would play in Rotary Club, First Presbyterian miles an hour. of warning, they said. the event. Tara Lindstrom from Church and the Mormon church The new telescope is an 8.4 meter instrument called the Large Carl’s Jr. said it would be a huge could become involved. Ralph Synoptic Survey Telescope, or LSST. Located on a mountain POLIO: CRIPPLING, FRUSTRATING feat to start from nothing and run Sherman from the Livermore called Cerro Pachon with two other major telescopes, it is intended Last summer, Kenya reported a new polio case after none for the event. Insurance is another Rotray and Hank Gene from the to reveal hundreds of these changes per night, far more than ever two years. Two weeks ago, India announced that 12 months had issue, she pointed out. Knights of Columbus and Lions before, according to project manager Don Sweeney of Livermore. passed since its last new case of polio. The contrasting bad and Lawrence said that LARPD Club said their groups would like LSST is designed to operate for 10 years, using a 3.5 degree good news announcements served to highlight the triumphs and could be hired to run the event. to be part of the effort. lens to view the entire sky every few days. It will take twin 15-sec- challenges of global programs to eradicate and prevent disease. He said an existing service group Citizens interested in work- ond exposures of each patch of sky – two exposures so that if there More than half a century after an effective vaccine was intro- could serve as an umbrella orga- ing on an event for 2012 and were a bright flash in one, its absence in the other would denote a duced, polio remains a cruel and dangerous disease in parts of the nization. beyond are invited to contact passing cosmic ray, not an astronomical event demanding analysis. Third World. Every year, hundreds of new cases are reported. Vic- Brown said that the city would the community group at e-mail LSST will record images in six colors using a 3.2 billion pixel tims are usually very young children – hence the name “infantile be at the table to make sure the re- Wendy Weathers at Livermore- camera, the world’s largest. Every night, it will generate 30 trillion paralysis” – who look forward to a life of begging, deprivation and sources required to run the event [email protected] or call her bytes of data. Its total database will be an almost overwhelming dependency that will continue to burden their families and villages are available. The city would at 963-8019. 100 petabytes (quadrillion bytes.) as well as themselves. provide the support it has in the Meetings are planned for There is a very strong local connection to the telescope through Each new case represents an epidemic, in the view of public past, at the lower cost. “If you each Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, which built up a health experts, because fewer than one in 100 who carry the polio can organize this in 6 months, go Robert Livermore Community tremendous reservoir of physics, optics and computations skills virus show any symptoms. The rest go about their daily affairs, for it,” he declared. Center, 4444 East Avenue. during decades of high power laser research. unintentionally spreading the disease. LARPD Board member Mary- For for more information, please call LARPD at 925-373- Sweeney is a physicist who moved from the Lab to LSST Corp. Eradication is possible in principle but difficult in practice, alice Faltings mentioned that the costs reflected the way the event 5700. nearly two years ago. Several other Lab scientists play prominent sometimes for reasons that are not medical. roles. For example, overall optical design has been led by Lynn Debra Millar, who grew up in Livermore and worked for years Seppala, and Livermore’s contribution to the powerful camera has in Africa as a public health nurse, remembers the irritation of staff been by Scott Olivier. at a Nairobi hospital where she took a young polio victim. The Large telescopes usually either look deep into space with a very child was from a distant tribe that was out of political favor. narrow, soda-straw view or scan widely but not deeply enough to It's also a challenge to get effective vaccine to where it is need- see faint objects. LSST is designed to accomplish both, based on ed, Millar says. Cities are one thing, but out-of-the-way villages advances in electronics during the past two decades. can be extremely difficult to reach while maintaining the “cold LSST will have serious outreach programs for K-12 schools chain” required to keep the vaccine fresh for days of transport and amateur astronomers, Sweeney said. “We’re really focusing on across back roads. Governments may not be willing to expend the kids and the public.” effort for certain tribes or religious groups. If all goes well, the telescope could see first light in 2020. Tech- Millar, nee Neuenschwander, now teaches in a new, accelerated nical reviews have been extremely positive. Last year, for instance, nursing program at Cal State-Stanislaus. a committee of the National Academy of Sciences ranked it top U.S. citizens are used to thinking of polio as a disease of his- priority in ground-based astronomy for the coming decade. tory, like smallpox, but it was eliminated from the Americas less Rate of funding remains a question. Major federal funders are than 20 years ago. Europe saw its last case only 10 years ago. the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation, It is caused by any of three enteroviruses, all of which are whose reviewers have agreed on the quality of the project. How- extremely virulent and all of which must be eradicated for the ever, the budgets of these agencies are determined in Washington, disease to disappear. In its most dangerous form, polio is paralytic and this is an election year when politicians seem to feel the need and can cause death or lifelong impairment. Mild cases can be no to act stingier-than-thou. worse than a cold or temporary muscle injury. LSST is a public-private partnership involving 34 organizations Spread through human waste, it is particularly a disease of including Lawrence Livermore, Los Alamos, universities and pri- children, who are most likely to be careless with hygiene. Bill Ser- vate companies. Private funding is important to maintaining LSST geant, who leads Rotary International’s polio eradication efforts, activity pending decisions on federal support. says that some 95 percent of cases are in children 5 and younger. Through years of optimism and pessimism about the possibility IS DEATH VALLEY DEADLY? of eradicating polio entirely, World Health Organization, Rotary Geologists from Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth and other public and private organizations have persisted in vacci- Observatory find that Ubehebe Crater in Death Valley was formed nations and education programs. Today, countries reporting tens of by a water-magma explosion about 800 years ago, not 6,000 years cases in 2011 include Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nigeria, the Congo, ago as commonly believed. They reached this conclusion by ana- Chad and China, according to the Polio Eradication Initiative web- lyzing radioactive decay rates of beryllium in fragments of quartz- site. All of these except the Congo reported increases from 2010 to ite and sandstone scattered around the crater by the explosion. 2011. The Congo declined only slightly, from 94 to 92.

Charging Stations Installed for Electric Cars The City of Pleasanton held a at the City Hall campus located Sunol Boulevard stations can fully charge a vehicle ribbon-cutting ceremony Mon- at 200 Old Bernal Avenue. One The charging stations were in three to eight hours. day to unveil five electric vehicle charger can be accessed at the funded through an American The City of Pleasanton is of- charging stations that have been Museum on Main at 603 Main Recovery and Reinvestment Act fering free vehicle charges until installed in the downtown area. Street, located in the back park- (ARRA) grant through Coloumb April 1, 2012. After that time, A Chevrolet Volt was used ing lot on Division Street. An- Technologies. Each of the top-of- customers can load or link funds to demonstrate how to use the other charger can be found in the-line commercial grade Level to a Chargepass card that allows charging equipment. the left rear parking lot at the Two EV charging stations is val- them to unlock and activate the Three chargers were installed Pleasanton Senior Center, 5353 ued at $3,000-$4,000 each. The EV charging stations.

The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012 - PAGE 3

Candlelight Walk the loading dock area. The suspects were seen January 30th will mark 23 years since the taking high end electronics (cameras, IPODs, kidnapping of Ilene Misheloff from the streets Kindles, laptops) via security cameras. of Dublin. On January 30, 2012, at 7:00 P.M., When the police arrived they noticed a Ford Ilene’s family and friends will participate in a SUV leaving the rear of Target at a high rate of Candlelight Walk and Ecumenical Prayer Service speed. Units attempted to stop the vehicle, but in honor of Ilene Misheloff. The public is invited the vehicle failed to stop. Dublin Police pursued to participate in the walk, which will start at the vehicle onto westbound I580 towards Castro Wells Middle School (6800 Penn Drive, Dublin) Valley. While pursuing the vehicle, the suspects and proceed to Saint Raymond’s Church (11555 were throwing the stolen merchandise out of the Shannon Avenue, Dublin). windows. The pursuit continued into Castro Val- 13 year-old Ilene Misheloff vanished while ley, where units lost the suspect vehicle. walking home from Wells Middle School in Dublin Police Investigations will be working Dublin on January 30, 1989. The investigation closely with Target Security in this case. into Ilene’s disappearance continues in an effort The initial estimated loss at Target was about to return Ilene safely to her parents. There is cur- $15,000 worth of electronics. rently a $100,000 reward for information leading Any information in this case please contact to the arrest and conviction of the subject(s) Detective Jared Hattaway at (925) 556-4561 or responsible for Ilene’s disappearance. Detective Sergeant Yesenia Sanchez at (925) Further information regarding the candlelight 833-6682. walk may be obtained from the Ilene Misheloff Recovery Center at 925-829-3810 or online at Pedestrians Hit “Eternity,” was unveiled in Pleasanton during a ceremony at the Firehouse Arts Center last www.find-ilene.org. Two pedestrians were struck while crossing Saturday. The white crystal jade granite sculpture was created by Jim Hunolt from Big Sur. It sits the road in Livermore. on a red granite pedestal. Each piece weighs 1200 pounds. Another HAPPY (Another Harrington Stark Endorsed On Wednesday, January 18, 2012, at about Arts Partnership Piece for You) funded the sculpture. Another HAPPY was launched by Nancy Congressman Pete Stark received the recom- 7:00 a.m., a 31 year-old woman was crossing and Gary Harrington in partnership with the City of Pleasanton. Nancy Harrington talked about the mendation over the weekend from the regional Bluebell Drive near the Springtown Library. As California Democratic Party for the state party’s she crossed, an approaching vehicle stopped in sculpture, describing it as an abstract piece designed to suggest energy and the endless motion endorsement for his re-election campaign. Sev- the westbound lane. A second vehicle came up created by a circular form that surrounds a circular space, suggesting the continuation of hope enth percent of party delegates voted in support behind the stopped car and decided to pass that and the ascension of the spirit. She stated, “The implication is that all things are possible as time of Stark’s candidacy in the new 15th Congres- stopped car on the right side. As the second car and space combine with energy and spirit.” The art is on display in the Firehouse Arts Center, sional District. passed the stopped car, it struck the pedestrian 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Among those on hand for the unveiling of the sculpture were Moving towards the official party endorse- near the north curb. The pedestrian was trans- Lynn and Joan Seppala (pictured), who contributed funds towards its purchase. ment next month adds to the list of endorsements ported to a local hospital where she was hospital- including Senator Dianne Feinstein, Leader Nan- ized with a broken leg. Both drivers stopped at cy Pelosi and Congresswoman Jackie Speier. the scene to render aid to the pedestrian and to Stark, who currently represents the previously assist with the police investigation. labeled 13th District, is running for re-election in On Thursday, January 19, 2012, at about 12:00 the newly created District 15. “I am honored by p.m., a 53 year-old male was crossing Fourth the support of the Democratic delegates in the Street near South “J” Street. The pedestrian Pleasanton Schools to district,” Stark said. “I am running to continue was crossing from south to north and had made my work as a strong voice in Congress for work- it to the #2 W/B lane of Fourth Street, when he ing families, children and senior citizens. I will was struck by a vehicle traveling westbound on Start STEM Career Portal fight to protect Social Security and Medicare, Fourth Street. The pedestrian was transported and technical education." Amador Valley. They may also provide affordable health care, and create eco- to a local hospital for treatment. The pedestrian The Pleasanton School Dis- The program will cost the send an e-mail to pltw@pleas- nomic opportunities for all.” suffered two broken legs. The driver in this trict plans to offer two sections school district $97,000, which antonusd.net. Region 6’s strong recommendation now plac- incident immediately stopped as well as several of a special new science and en- already has been approved by the es Stark’s endorsement on the consent calendar witnesses who rendered aid to the pedestrian. gineering class at Amador Valley school board. The sum matches at the California Democratic Convention, which The subsequent investigation caused Fourth High School this fall. grant money from the state. takes place on February 10-12 in San Diego. Street to be closed in both directions for about The program also will start Other funders for various The new 15th District includes Dublin, two and a half hours. at Harvest Park and Pleasanton aspects of the program are Law- Livermore, Fremont, Hayward, Pleasanton, Pedestrian involved injury collisions have middle schools, which feed stu- rence Livermore National Labo- San Lorenzo, San Ramon, and Union City, and been on the rise in Livermore for the last several dents into Amador Valley. ratory, Safeway, Chevron, and unincorporated areas of Alameda County includ- years. In 2009 there were 10 pedestrians injured Julie Duncan, the district's the federal government. ing Castro Valley and Fairview. in roadway collisions. That number rose to 17 in coordinator of career and techni- Duncan is looking for people Dublin City Councilmember Eric Swalwell 2010 and 18 in 2011. There have been no fatal cal education and apprenticeship in the STEM field to serve on an has also announced plans to run for the seat as pedestrian involved collisions in Livermore since programs, said that the district advisory board for the program. a Democrat. July 13, 2008, when a pedestrian was struck and hopes to sign up approximately killed as he ran across East Avenue near Jensen 60 students at the high school "We want people in the industry, Street. level. including anyone who can offer Burglary in Dublin us advice about what the current Dublin Police responded to a burglary in Anyone with questions regarding pedestrian The program would act as a market is looking for," she said. progress at the new Target store located at 2800 safety, or general traffic issues, may contact the career academy portal. It will People who want to volunteer Dublin Boulevard on January 19, 2012, about Livermore Police Department Traffic Unit at help some students to prepare or learn more about serving on 2:50 am. Target Security reported three unidenti- (925) 371-4850. for a college or technical school the advisory board may attend fied subjects used crowbars to gain entry through education in engineering and other tech fields. an informational meeting at 6:30 The classes will help others p.m. Feb. 1 in the Q building at in deciding whether they want to take that path in life by giv- ing them a good taste of what is required of them and what the 'Green Button' to Help Reduce Energy Use work is like, said Duncan. The program will be affili- PG&E has launched its “green manage their energy use. tric usage in a customer-friendly ated with Project Lead the Way button,” an online tool that allows Chopra also announced that display. (PLTW), which offers curriculum customers to download their own utilities in the Washington, D.C., For PG&E customers, access support and networking oppor- energy data to be used to develop area and in Texas will follow to the green button requires an tunities that help teachers in Sci- third-party applications that can PG&E’s lead and develop their electric SmartMeter™ connected help customers save energy and own green buttons. to the network and a My Energy ence, Technology, Engineering, money. The green button is another account. From the “My Usage Mathematics (STEM). California’s three major elec- extension of the benefits of a Details” section, residential and PLTW is a national program, tric providers—PG&E, San Di- smart grid, including PG&E’s mid-size business customers can which was founded in upstate ego Gas & Electric and Southern nearly 9 million SmartMeters™ click on the green button icon New York in 1986 by a high California Edison—committed to already in use in Northern and to download up to 13 months school engineering teacher. developing the technology last Central California. of hourly electric usage data in More than 4200 schools in the fall after a challenge from White A number of energy technol- XML format. That information United States are offering PLTW House Chief Technology Officer ogy companies showed samples can then be sent to developers or courses. The non-profit organiza- Aneesh Chopra during a forum in of apps that could be used from third parties. tion has trained more than 10,500 San Ramon hosted by the Silicon the green button information. The agreement by the utilities teachers to instruct its STEM Valley Leadership Group. Among those in attendance was is just the first step in what can curriculum. Chopra adapted the idea from software developer Joss Scholter be accomplished using smart PLTW says that the level of the U.S. Department of Veterans of Austin, Texas, who created an grid technology, Chopra said. rigor in the program has earned Affairs’ launch of a “blue but- app in 12 hours using PG&E’s And it all started with a meeting it a compliment from the Harvard ton” tool, developed initially for green button. The app, which in October with Chopra and the Graduate School of Education as the U.S. Department of Veterans he displayed on his iPad, shows utilities. a "model for 21st century career Affairs, that has helped more hourly, monthly and daily elec- than 500,000 veterans, medicare beneficiaries, and active-duty personnel download their health information for sharing with doctors, care givers and others they trust and is available today to more than 80 million Ameri- cans. The green button works much the same way, allowing consum- ers to download their hourly electric usage information in customer- and computer-friendly formats. Chopra said industry adop- tion of the green button standard will jumpstart innovation while creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs and innovators, with customer permission, to help Americans make informed energy decisions. Chopra referred to the utilities’ development of the green button as “liberating data,” which will spur innovation and ultimately help PG&E customers better PAGE 4 - The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012 EDITORIALS Change in Benefits Boosts Working Together Sandia Retirement Numbers Tri-Valley mayors continue to receive positive feedback An unusually large number larger number of new hires, so lost 511 to retirement, including Alamos National Laboratories from elected officials by speaking as one voice during visits of Sandia National Laboratories Sandia’s overall employment 54 retirees from Livermore, ac- in these efforts and has other to Washington, D.C. veterans took retirement in 2011, rose slightly. cording to corporate figures. major responsibilities as well. The mayors travel to the nation's capital to participate prompted at least partly by a To make sure that the Labo- These numbers are thought These include homeland security, in the annual conference of mayors. While there, they take reduction in corporate contribu- ratory could continue to have to be almost identical to retire- cyber-security, biosciences and tions to medical plans starting the skills necessary to meet its ment statistics for the entire year, transportation and energy. time to lobby officials for financial support for various Sandia evolved from the projects. in 2012. technical commitments, Sandia since employees usually retire Three years ago, Sandia an- World War II nuclear weapon This visit included conversations about funding for i- brought in new employees to at year’s end. The end-of-2011 nounced a cap starting in 2012 work with the veterans well retirements were roughly double development program at Los GATE and NEST in Livermore and highway projects. Alamos, moving to Kirtland on the amount it would contrib- before they departed, the spokes- the usual rates as indicated by a Livermore Mayor John Marchand, Dublin Mayor Tim ute to retiree health programs. five-year average of 265 retire- Air Force Base in Albuquerque person said. at the end of the War. Western Sbranti and Danville Mayor Candace Anderson were on In particular, it limited what it Sandia’s main site, in Al- ments per year for the system hand for the entire conference; Pleasanton Mayor Jennifer Electric Corp. became the Sandia would pay between the time an buquerque, has about 9,100 as a whole and 26 per year for manager starting in 1949. Hosterman arrived a little later in the week. employee retires and the begin- employees, including full and Livermore . Today the Laboratory is man- At Monday's Livermore council meeting, Marchand ning of Medicare coverage. The part time, according to Sandia Sandia is a major facility of aged by Sandia Corp., a wholly commented that over the years such efforts have produced exact amount of contribution figures. The Livermore site has the National Nuclear Security owned subsidiary of Lockheed money for highway improvements and the regional depends on length of service, about one-tenth of that, or 900, Administration, whose primary Martin Corp. NNSA has de- communication project. Over $60 million has been invested among other things. so total corporate employment job is to develop, engineer and clared its intention of putting the in the communication project, which is slated to go live A Sandia Lab spokesperson is about 10,000. test non-nuclear parts of nuclear operating contract out to bid in said the end-of-2011 depar- in six months. In the last three months of weapons. It works closely with 2013, after the current contract tures were offset by a slightly Lawrence Livermore and Los Marchand also told other councilmembers that the "hot 2011, the entire Sandia system expires. buzz" concerned i-GATE and NEST. Officials were aware of the program. They recommended a technical review to provide a stronger application for funds that would help to pay for capital projects. All of the mayors, at one time or another, have declared Pleasanton Might Have Discussion on Walmart Grocery that speaking as one voice has produced funds for local Pleasanton is looking into Walmart filed plans signed Walmart site are opposed to the Arkansas headquarters. Other projects that provide regional benefit. Hopefully, this trip, whether or not the city can hold by an engineer who has worked operation, because they have had markets, such as Gene's, are lo- too, will be fruitful in moving forward with projects that a procedural discussion concern- on other Walmart jobs and is no say about operational times cally owned. boost the local economy. ing Walmart's plans to open a based in Walmart's home city in at the store. They said noise Safeway is local, too, in the grocery store in the former Bell Arkansas. The Walmart store's from truck unloading will bother sense that its corporate headquar- Market on Santa Rita Road. name itself did not appear on them, especially late at night. ters are in Pleasanton. Award Winning Fair Councilmember Matt Sul- the plans. Conditional use permits can put Pleasanton's store owners The Alameda County Fair continues to receive recognition livan said that one item on a The remodeling plans appar- restrictions on such conflicts. haven't spoken publicly abut the as one of the nation's top 50 fairs. closed session meeting with the ently are minor, and don't reach Other neighbors welcome the Walmart issue. However, Raley's At the recent meeting of the 89th Annual Achievement city attorney scheduled for the the level of change in which a store, because it would again and Safeway have had contact Awards Convention, the local fair brought home 24 first Jan. 24 meeting was to learn the conditional use permit (CUP) provide food for sale at a close with the city staff about it, said place honors, 11 second place and 4 third place awards legal background about whether would be required. location. The shopping center Sullivan. handed out by the Western Fair Association. The awards a zoning administrator's decision A CUP would require a public manager said that an anchor like Asked whether city councils program recognizes excellence and provides an opportunity can be appealed to the planning hearing before the planning com- Walmart is needed to help other should be concerned about union mission. An approval there could tenants, who have suffered since to share successful fair ideas and programs. commission or city council. labor vs. non-union, Sullivan said The key would be a decision be appealed to the city council. Bell closed. that union jobs in groceries, such Among the projects receiving the top awards were radio about the specific application. Some Pleasanton residents Sullivan told the Independent as Safeway's, are among the few advertising, fairtime website, year round website, social Some decisions by zoning ad- oppose the Walmart store. Em- that the city should be concerned jobs left in the middle class for media marketing campaign, and a cultural marketing ministrators can be appealed, ployees at other groceries are about the economic impact on all people who don't have a college campaign - Spice of India weekend. and some cannot, said Sullivan. worried about their jobs if their other food stores in the city. He education. The council needs to The Fair also received 5 international awards from the The council will know more after stores lose business to Walmart. said that the city has statistics look at that kind of economic International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) the city staff has conducted a Two Safeway union employ- from surveys that show how impact on those residents, too, for its 2011 Fair marketing programs. thorough review, he said. ees who spoke for themselves much food-store capacity is said Sullivan. Despite the economy, last year's fair set records for Walmart acknowledged in a during a previous council meet- available, which could be dis- Sullivan said that these were attendance. letter to the city recently that it is ing said that they have receive cussed if the issue were aired. his own opinions, but the impor- Planning is already underway for the 2012 fair, which the organization behind a remod- good wages and benefits in their Another economic impact tant thing is to allow residents union jobs. They don't want to is that Walmart takes its profits will celebrate the 100th anniversary with a theme of “100 eled interior for the store, ending a chance to speak out about community speculation about lose them. out of the city and back to its Walmart's project. Years of Memories Made Here.” Given past successes, who the new tenant would be. Some neighbors near the fairgoers can look forward to something special. ZONE 7 (continued from page one) Plan (SMMP) in 2006 in order nexus between the flood control the end of this year what it might The UCC staff will undertake to plan a coordinated effort on fee that is paid and the work com- charge for the flood control fee other tasks, including consulta- CATTLE flood control throughout the Val- pleted and results delivered. in 2013. tion with Zone 7, and helping in (continued from page one) around at least until April, when ley. The plan is intended to help Directors at the meeting Jan. Areas of study will be along the creation of a "robust funding better. In fact, with one-third of grass will be plentiful at the create more natural habitat along 18 helped the study along by the Arroyo Mocho and the Ve- plan," says a staff report from the grass growing season already feedlots. streams, help make the permit- unanimously approving a con- rona Reach of the Arroyo De La engineer Carol Mahoney. lost, Banke estimates there is no Jeff Nielsen, a San Ramon ting process smoother, and bring tract with the Urban Creeks Laguna between Pleasanton and Director Dick Quigley said better than a 20 percent chance rancher, is part of the longtime about efficiencies of funding. Council (UCC) for $330,000 for Sunol. that as the process of arroyo that the remaining season will be Dublin Nielsen family. He and The study also will pin down various facets of work over the UCC will study fish and bird study and habitat planning moves “perfect,” meaning rainy enough other family members have herds costs and the fair share burden next 30 months. habitat, stream-side vegetation ahead, he would like to see Valley to generate the grass to fatten up in Tehama, Glenn and Siskiyou of those costs, something that There will be $190,000 re- and aquatic invertebrates in recreation and trails committees the cattle. counties as well as locally, so in the cities, developers and other imbursed by the State Coastal the arroyos. The goal also is to at the table as stakeholders. The Banke attended Livermore some years a diversity of weather stakeholders believe is important. Conservancy as work proceeds. reduce erosion, which affects arroyo banks are public land. High School and then Cal Poly- can protect their cattle business They want to make sure there is a Zone 7 expects to know by stream water quality for fish. There is a history of trails along San Luis Obispo, where he grad- the way a diversity of stock hold- the arroyos, said Quigley. uated in agricultural business in ings can protect an investor. 1968. He worked for Well Fargo This year, though, the weather Bank and two professional cattle has hit them all about the same, associations before returning to he says. “Agriculture is always his family’s business. He bases a gamble.” his estimate of the remaining Cattle ranching in the Bay (Opinions voiced in letters All of these programs (and has launched the Annual Giving clothing producers seem to want growing season on near and long- Area is particularly challenging, published in Mailbox are those many more) are available free Fund to support valued programs your children sexually active range forecasts from the various Banke and Nielsen both say, of the author and do not neces- at our local Pleasanton Library. at our schools including support younger and younger. Doctors weather services and on histori- because the industry is centered sarily reflect the opinion of The Livermore Library and San Ra- for specialized literacy programs, are clamoring for HPV shots for cal weather trends for this area. Independent. Letter Policy: The both boys and girls at age 12. elsewhere. Here, a lot of agri- Independent will not publish mon Library have similar pro- science and technology, and li- He also uses his professional cultural land has been built over. anonymous letters, nor will it grams. braries. As a community we need Predators want children to have judgment to consider the health Land and feed costs are high. publish letters without names. I attended the (Armchair) to support PPIE’s effort as they HPV shots too. Parents are left and well being of the cattle. Feedlots are hundreds if not Abusive letters may be rejected Travelers Group at the Livermore embark on the final three weeks out of the loop. Because of reams Organizations like the Cat- thousands of miles away. or edited. Frequent letter writers Library (Visiting Norway was the of their campaign to raise funds of paper work so kids can have tlemen’s Association offer re- Banke is particularly annoyed may have publication of their topic). This group meets monthly for academic year 2012-2013. asthma medicine at school they sources for cattle management, at U.S. ethanol policy, which letters delayed. Letters should be at 1:30-2:30 in the afternoon The “Super Bowl for Schools” are clueless to laws that allow and Bay Area ranchers can talk promotes the use of corn for submitted by e-mail to editmail@ come early for this one too; park- deadline to donate is Super Bowl teachers to by-pass them in the things over among themselves. biofuel and drives up the cost of compuserve.com.) ing can be difficult. Sunday, February 5th. most intimate medical matters. “Everyone is looking at when to other crops to replace the corn. No excuse to sit home alone PPIE is requesting a donation Parents who desperately want to pull the trigger” – when to make Apart from corn’s energy inef- Support Local Libraries every night for anyone. There is of only $150 per student, but protect children are left clueless. the hard decision to sell early if ficiency as a fuel source, he sees Ellen Bradley much to do in our “special” val- any and all donations will help! There are lots of laws mandating that becomes necessary, Banke U.S. policy as “a Third World Pleasanton ley. Almost everything offered at Surrounding Bay Area education sex education in every course. says. disaster” because of higher food I recently attended the Thurs- these libraries is free. foundations request an average of The teachers arrested for sex The feedlots where the cattle costs there. Locally, he finds that day night (7 p.m.) Great Direc- Pleasantonians (Livermorians, $570 per student. Donations are with students are getting a bad will go are generally east, from it adds $1200 to $1500 to his an- tors Program at our Pleasanton San Ramonians) can get out and tax-deductible. Please visit www. rap. They are just doing what the Nevada at the closest to Kansas nual feed bills. Library. Saw” The Big Sleep” mingle. All ages have attended ppie.org for donation by check, law tells them to do, "Teach the and Nebraska. Banke once On the positive side, demand with Bogart and Bacall—di- these sessions and have enjoyed, credit card, PayPal; or to make children about sex." Horrified by shipped to Indiana. The timing for American beef is high in Asia. rected by Howard Hawks and in- and learned and participated in monthly payments. that statement? You should be. is crucial. In January, the ground That keeps sale prices high for troduced by Dr. Candy Klaschus, our local communities. I strongly urge you to support Nobody is protecting children at the feedlots will be frozen and some producers, he says. film historian and Coordinator of the PPIE Foundation's Annual and you should be mad as hell covered with snow. Even if it’s In the meantime, waiting for the Humanities Program at Las Support Our Schools Giving Fund 2012-2013 effort by about it. possible to truck them over the the weather to make up its mind Positas College (this series had Joyce Shapiro making a donation today. Thank mountain passes, anyone who as the growing season slips a great turnout—movie buffs of Board Member of the Tri-Val- you for your support! Inspiring Walk buys the Tri-Valley cattle will past, there is plenty of work to all ages attended). ley “Y” Donna DuBose have to pay for feed and won’t do. Banke works a 6-day week, Also went to the one hour Our state is in serious financial Protecting Children Pleasanton be likely to offer a good price in with at least a couple of hours of talk given by Pleasanton local, crisis resulting in devastating Ja Specht It was an inspiring experi- California. chores on Sundays. Dr. Christine Dickson entitled cuts to our public education Livermore ence to take part in Saturday’s So local cattlemen are hoping It’s a life that he loves, but as a “Emotional Eating,” another system. Every school district Lately, several teachers in the Art Walk downtown. Nancy and the rain picks up again, the grass business, it is hard and just about excellent informative program. throughout California has experi- Bay Area have been arrested for Gary Harrington shared insights grows and the cattle can be kept as unpredictable as the weather. It will be repeated at The Liver- enced deep cuts in programs and inappropriate sexual behavior and background stories to many more Library next month. Her staffing-including Pleasanton. with students. public art sculptures – telling presentation was the first in a Every resident and business of In November, respected foot- both how the artists and their series to be held on the Third Pleasanton benefits from our ball coaches were accused of the respective works journeyed to Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. excellent school district – excel- same behavior. Apparently the Pleasanton. I would gladly have at the Pleasanton Library. lent schools have direct and in- Sexual Revolution of the 60’s paid tuition to get such a ‘close Coming up at the end of Feb- direct benefits by supporting our up and personal’ art history les- Publisher: Joan Kinney Seppala and 70’s, successfully convinced Associate Publisher: David T. Lowell ruary will be a one hour music property values, reducing crime society that sex has no conse- son, yet it’s offered at no charge (INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.) Editor: Janet Armantrout presentation given by the San and vandalism, and attracting quences. Do those teachers in jail every month. Francisco based jazz group The families who value community. still believe? Sex permeates our The more I learn about our The Independent is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing Company, 2250 First St., Liver- Buena Vista Jazz Band featuring more, CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Mailed at Periodical Postage Prices at the Livermore Post Office and Parents of current students have society. Watch day time televi- city’s history and public art, the additional entry office: Pleasanton, CA 94566-9998. The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www. songstress Darlene Langston more grateful I am to call Pleas- independentnews.com to sign up and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The been trying to backfill the cuts sion. In the last two years the Independent, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550. honoring Black History Month. from the state through fund-rais- state legislature has passed SB anton home. We are so fortunate Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700 This will be Sunday afternoon ing, but they need our help. 48, AB 499, SB 543, and ACR to have the Harringtons and other during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212. Editorial information may be submitted by [email protected]. Feb. 26 at 2 p.m.). Suggestion, The Pleasanton Partnerships 82, which are all related to sex. supporters of the arts continuing come early for a good seat. in Education Foundation (PPIE) Government, television and (More MAILBOX, page 5) The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012 - PAGE 5 Young Women Invited to Explore Math, Science Careers Young woman in grades 6-9 ences, and fashion and art design ticipants. The $20 student and are invited to attend the Tri-Val- led to her career in orthopedic $15 adult fee includes materials ley Expanding Your Horizons surgery. and a bag lunch. Register early, (EYH) career conference that A full day is planned with as spaces fill up quickly. returns Saturday, Feb. 25, to hands-on workshops, a special More information on the con- the Diablo Valley College, San group activity, and a career fair. ference can be found at www. Ramon Campus, 1690 Watermill The conference also provides tveyh.org . Local organizations Road in San Ramon from 8:30 young women opportunities to or businesses interested in donat- a.m. to 3 p.m. meet and interact with positive ing or participating can e-mail The annual EYH event sparks role models who are active in [email protected]. interest and fosters awareness in math- and science- related ca- The conference is coordinated math and science careers. This reers. by Lawrence Livermore National year’s theme, “Your future is For parents, the conference Laboratory, Diablo Valley Col- within your grasp,” will feature offers a two and one-half hour lege San Ramon, Sandia National Alexandra Burgar, M.D., whose workshop on college planning, Laboratories, and the Association practice is at Tri-Valley Orthope- academic requirements, and of University Women. dic Specialists. She will discuss financial aid. For additional information, how her exposure through her On-line registration opens contact the EYH Hotline at 925- family to the fields of engineer- Jan. 24 at http://tveyh.org. Reg- 422-2453. ing, carpentry, biological sci- istration is required for all par- New Voter Profile Feature Available On-Line The Alameda County Regis- English, Chinese, Spanish, Taga- said Dave Macdonald, Alam- trar of Voters has launched a new log and Vietnamese. eda County Registrar of Voters. online “Voter Profile” feature that In addition to all register in- “Sometimes long periods of time allows registered voters in the formation, the voter profile also pass between elections, and in County to review all aspects of lists all federal, State and local this interim period a person’s his or her voter status with the districts in which the voter is circumstances may change. We click of a button. The new fea- eligible to cast a vote. feel this is a useful service to the ture is available at the Registrar During election season, the voter in that it will allow them to of Voters website at www.acgov. feature lists the date of the next quickly review and, if necessary, org/rov. election and the location of the make changes to the way they Alameda County is believed voter’s registered polling place. will participate in an upcoming to be the first county in California "Some of this information election.’’ to offer this voter-friendly online has been available previously To learn more about the on- feature, which allows voters to through our website, but this new line Voter Profile feature, call quickly review and update key feature allows the voter to review the Registrar of Voters office at aspects of their voter status with all key aspects of their voting (510) 272-6933 or go to www. Alameda County. The Voter Pro- status in one central place,’’ acgov.org/rov. file is available in five languages:

(continued from page 4) to contribute to the richness of opment) is best described in the justify converting surface park- our downtown. exhaustive 1957 "Report to the ing to structures. Attempting Legislature" by the San Francisco to force walkability and dense My Opinion Bay Area Rapid Transit Commis- housing where most people have Mary Sue Marks sion on Page 67 under "Service automobile or local feeder transit Livermore Standards": access subverts the purpose of As a parent and grandmother, "Suburban stations...would regional rapid transit. People I was appalled when I read about be easily reached by local feeder can drive many times farther Marie Johnson. transit and private automobiles than they can walk to a station. This woman needs to be in and would offer adequate parking The number of potential patrons jail and never teach at any school facilities. In commercial and em- varies roughly as the square of again. Please, Granada, don't ever ployment centers stations would that distance. let her in your doors again as be placed within easy walking A given area can accomodate she'll do it again, believe. distance of commuter and shop- far more parked automobiles If Marie is married, she should per destinations." than dwelling units, let alone the take care of her husband, not Destination stations should schools, parks, and other land children. The woman needs to be walkable, suburban stations uses related to housing. While see a good therapist. driveable. dense housing and walkability Surface parking and good may fit well around some subur- freeway/arterial automobile ac- ban stations, housing is one of the Housing Not TOD cess should prevail at suburban least productive developments Robert S. Allen stations. As land values rise, around new suburban transit sta- Livermore commercial use for the land will tions. Housing ain't TOD! TOD (Transit Oriented Devel-

PAGE 6 - The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012

Registration Underway for EBRPD Trails Challenge The East Bay Regional Park Parks or Trails. Hikes range from of the booklet they need, though Fremont; Martin Luther King, Jr. District’s nineteenth annual easy to challenging. There are complete hard copies will be Regional Shoreline, Oakland; Trails Challenge is now accept- trails open to hikers, bicyclists available for $5 each. Besides Morgan Territory Regional Pre- ing registrations for 2012. The and equestrians, and many are the specific trail information, the serve, near Tassajara/Eastern hiking program surpassed 10,000 wheelchair accessible. booklet contains general park Contra Costa County; Pleasanton participants in 2011. Residents This year’s theme is “Happy district information and tips for Ridge Regional Park, Pleasanton; of Alameda and Contra Costa Trails.” In addition to trail infor- new trail users. Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, County may register for free mation the guidebook includes A free mobile application Richmond; Redwood Regional again this year, thanks to a part- sections on hiking with kids, for iPhone and Android smart Park, Oakland; Sunol Regional nership with Kaiser Permanente hiking with dogs, trail safety and phone users allows registered Wilderness, Sunol; and Wildcat of Northern California and the hiking in hot weather. participants to bring the guide- Canyon Regional Park, Rich- Regional Parks Foundation. To register, visit www.eb- book along with them wherever mond. The Trails Challenge is a parks.org, click on “Trails Chal- they go. Information can be obtained self-guided hiking program that lenge” in the “Features” section To complete the actual chal- at www.ebparks.org or 1 (877) gives participants an incentive to on the right side of the home lenge, participants are asked to 327-2757. visit regional parks new to them, page, and proceed as directed. hike five of the trails or 26.2 while promoting good health and Registrants must have an e-mail miles and send in their log after conditioning through enjoyable address, as further instructions doing so. They will receive a outdoor exercise. will be e-mailed. An e-mail con- commemorative pin mailed to Participants who register for firmation will provide registra- them. As in past challenges, the the Trails Challenge will receive tion instructions, and details on honor system applies. Nobody a free T-shirt and online access how to download the guidebook is checking to make sure partici- to the 2012 trail guidebook. The and obtain the free Trails Chal- pants hiked the trails. guidebook includes detailed trail lenge T-shirt. The 2012 Trails Challenge descriptions as well as trail tips, In a move towards “going includes the following parks driving directions, and maps for green,” participants are encour- and trails: Big Break Regional hikes in 20 different Regional aged to print out only portions Shoreline, Oakley; Black Dia- mond Mines Regional Preserve, Antioch; Briones Regional Park, Lafayette; California Riding & Hiking Trail, Martinez; Car- quinez Strait Regional Shore- line, Martinez; Diablo Foothills Regional Park, Walnut Creek; Dublin Hills Regional Park, Dublin; Garin / Dry Creek Pio- neer Regional Park, Hayward; Hayward Regional Shoreline, Hayward; Huckleberry Botanic & Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserves, Oakland; Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area, El Sobrante; Las Trampas Re- gional Wilderness, San Ramon; Mission Peak Regional Preserve,

Members of the Pleasanton's Ballistic United Soccer Club U13 Premier team thank the fans after their 3-2 victory

Pleasanton Ballistic Soccer As they have all season, Pleasanton’s Ballistic United Soccer Club U13 Premier soccer team showed much resilience at the NorCal Under 13 Premier 1 State Cup. On Saturday 6th seeded Ballistic was matched against 3rd seed Modesto Ajax. Pleasanton nearly scored in the 3rd minute of the game clanging a corner kick off the far post. Play- ing on the small field both sides found time and space difficult to achieve resulting in a wild end to end match. Ajax scored the only goal of the half for the 1-0 lead. In the second half Ballistic played themselves back into the game as Bryce Taylor deflected Kyle McClanahan’s corner kick across the top of the 6 yard box to Blake Tucker who scored tying the game 1-1. Ballistic gained some much needed momentum but Ajax struck again to restore the lead to 2-1 with 15 minutes remaining. Ballistic, known for their 2nd half scoring, continued to push hard for the equalizer. With seconds remaining McClanahan once again stepped up to take a free kick, this time dropping the ball just outside the 6 yard box . Daniel Ferguson headed the ball down for Imran Matin whose point blank shot was saved by the keeper. Youki Chiba quickly pounced on the rebound tying the game with seconds left in regulation to send the game into overtime. Ajax managed 1 shot in the first 5 minute overtime while Ballistic was not able to threaten the goal. In the second overtime keeper Blake Staniford collected the ball and sent what was likely his longest punt of the season deep into Modesto’s half of the field. The ball bounced hard just outside the box as both the Ajax keeper and Ballistic striker Blake Tucker converged. Tucker won the 50/50 ball and headed it home for a 3-2 final and a spot in Sunday’s semifinals. In the semifinals, Ballistic once again faced a difficult PVYSC team. Pleasanton had defeated the Pajaro Valley team last week 3-0 in a round 2 pre-seeding game. PVYSC struck quickly with a shot from 22 yards that found its way under the cross bar. Shortly after the goal Ballistic started to press the attack to PVYSC. Bryce Taylor and Matin played a great 1-2 combination allowing Matin to get behind the defense into the box. Matin then sent a dangerous cross that the PVYSC keeper knocked into his own player deflecting the ball into the goal. The score was tied 1-1, but not for long as once again PVYSC restored the lead to 2-1. In the last minute of the half PVYSC scored a critical 3rd goal to go up 3-1. In the second half a determined Ballistic team fought their way back into the game with McClanahan once again hitting a free kick from 35 yards that bounced in the box and somehow snuck past the PVYSC defense to get Ballistic within 1. Pleasanton contin- ued to turn aside PVYSC and mount effective counterattacks but gave up a 4th goal to go down 4-2 with 7 minutes left. Pleasanton continued to attack with Chiba scoring a goal in the final seconds to pull within 1. Seconds later the referee whistle ended the match. The 4-3 loss ends Ballistic’s season 1 game short of the Premier 1 Championship. Ballistic finishes State Cup as the 12 ranked NorCal Division 1 team. The players are already looking forward to next season which will include a trip to train and play with England’s Sheffield United youth teams.

Edge Gymnastics Edge Gymnastics optional team kicked off the season at San Diego Classic hosted by Poway Gymnastics on January 21-22 in San Diego. The Level 7 team finished first: 9 - 11: Brianna Londeree, 1st floor (9.375); 12 - 13: Julia Pfluger, 1st all-around (36.95), 1st floor (9.775), 2nd tie vault (9.25), 3rd beam (9.05); Kimberly Smelley, 2nd all-around (36.55), 1st beam (9.4), 2nd tie vault (9.25), 2nd floor (9.35); Serena Chan, 1st vault (9.325), 1st bars(9.15), 3rd floor (9.2); Rhianne Khweled, 2nd floor (9.2); 14+: Shannon Bagot, 2nd all-around (35.625), 2nd bars (8.7), 3rd beam (8.85), 3rd floor (9.025) Level 8: 12 - 13: Kelley Hebert, 1st all- around (37.6), 1st vault (9.4), 2nd bars (9.6), 2nd floor (9.35); Hannah Skinner, 2nd vault (9.275); Samantha Durante, 2nd bars (9.45); 14+: Samatha Jowler, 2nd beam (9.275) Level 9: 14 - 15: Yasmine Yektaparast, 1st all-around (35.925), 3rd beam (9.125), 3rd floor (9.15); Stephanie Relova, 2nd floor (9.2) Level 10: 14 - 15: Kara Jones, 2nd The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012 - PAGE 7

West Coast Soccer Club stars have been selected for the Olympic Development Program. They are Megan Amick, Melissa Ellis, The 2011-2012 CYO 3rd grade girls basketball team put together Sydni Lunt, and Miciah Madison. The four U14 soccer stars were a perfect season. The team name was the Tough Girls and they selected to participate in the U.S. Youth Olympic Development played like it. They went 9-0-1 playing excellent defense and Program. The program is designed to give players with the highest scoring in a timely fashion. Pictured in this photo are (top row caliber skill set and game play consistency the opportunity to be from left to right) the coaches, Gary Arruda, Glenn Brongiel, Head selected for a national team and for international games. Two of Coach Craig Waugh; (middle row) Mercedes Valverde, Hannah the girls, Sydni Lunt and Megan Amick, have been selected to Whitelock, Haiden Arruda, Kalena Brongiel, Wyatt Norstrand, participate with players from around the country in an intense Athena Lynch; and (bottom row) Julia Passannante, Kendall five day training program taking place in Arizona. All four girls Waugh, Ainsley Gibbs, and Camille Wiggington. are a members of the West Coast Soccer U14G Wild, a Norcal Regional Academy League team. Pictured are Megan Amick, Melissa Eliis, Sydni Lundt, and Miciah Madison.

double team effort, and kept the shooters on the outerbanks, only allowing 4 points. Spring Rollerhockey Vanessa Barone was key above the line with All new players will get free league fees 2 points, a rebound and caused 4 turnovers. for their 1st session at Valley Inline Hockey Photo - Doug Jorgensen Rounding out the scoring for the Flyers was in Livermore. Equipment is available to Little Maddy, Lauren Rodgers and Emma for borrow as long as a player provides his or Amador Valley High School guard Alysse Ketner (15) alludes a basket each and Jessica Bennett with an her own skates. No experience is necessary; Livermore High School's Caitlin Barney (14) as she heads down explosive defensive effort with 6 rebounds, free lessons on Sundays. Age divisions are 3 attempts, 2 steals, an assist and not a 8 and under(Squirts), 9-12 (PeeWee), 13-16 the court. Amador came away with a 70 to 68 win in overtime after single turnover. (Bantam) for boys and girls. Signups at the Livermore had tied the score with 6 seconds left in regulation. • • • rink Saturday, Jan 28, 10am-1pm. 925-443- The SM/SC 3rd grade Thunder finished 1500. The rink is located behind Junction Ave Ketner stole the ball at the end of regulation to seal the win. the season with solid performances, twice. Middle School. in Livermore with parking First they performed a half time show during off Ladd Avenue. the ABA East Bay Pit Bulls game on Saturday night, then ended their season taking on a previously defeated St. Joan team. Megan Bocce Kits for Rent floor (9.4) showing great hustle was Angelina Mouser “Bacon” Allen and big sister Brooke, teamed The Livermore Area Recreation and with 2 steals and 2 rebounds and staying with up for 2 attempts, and a steal. Bacon caused Park District is now making bocce ball kits her opponents up and down the floor causing CYO Basketball two turnovers. Olivia Turner dropped in 4 available for rent to the public. chaos for St. Isidore’s passing lane. In an exciting game, St. Michaels/St. points, had 5 steals and a rebound. Power Bocce ball kits can be checked out for a • • • Charles (SM/SC) CYO 5th grade boys, the forward Justine Locatelli had 5 attempts, a week at a time from the Robert Livermore In 3rd grade boys’ SM/SC CYO action Gladiators, eventually succumbed to St. Joan steal and a rebound while Allyah Anderson Community Center. The kits are available at Sunday, Coach Alamillo’s Warriors out- of Arc 18-12 in CYO basketball. For St. played a fantastic game in the guard position the front counter from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. scored Coach Macur’s team 25-6 in the sea- Joan, David Wong was high scorer with six with 3 steals and 2 rebounds. Her defense Monday through Friday. son finale for both teams. For the Warriors, points, while Brandon Domagas and Chase forced St. Joan players to take other routes Rental for one week is $20, plus a $40 Landon Ratinho and Liam McKean were Mackenzie each scored four, while Jason Tran to the basket. Center Kelly Lineweber held refundable deposit by credit card or cash – a outstanding on offense and Matty Sciascia and Cory Ng were defensive standouts for the tough with 3 steals, 3 rebounds and caused 3 total of $60. The $40 deposit is refundable if and Drew McDonald played outstanding team. For the Gladiators, Connor Livingston turnovers while her counterpart, Iliza Shields, equipment is returned in good condition. Kits defense. Coach Macur’s outstanding play- scored six points, Logan Finch scored four stepped up and shut down the key in the 2nd are rented on a first-come, first-served basis; ers were Shaun Smith and Patrick Curallo points and Ben Leggat scored two. Colton half to force her opponent to shoot from the reservations are not available in advance. on offense and Austin Statham and Antonio Morlan and Logan Finch were outstanding outside. Erin Schrader played a great game Rental of a bocce ball kit does not guarantee Crivelli on defense. defensively for the Gladiators, demonstrating as usual with her aggressive steals and great a bocce ball court will be available. • • • exceptional rebounding skills. shooting. Rounding out the defense with The Robert Livermore Community Cen- The SM/SC Flyers recorded another win • • • stats across the board, was forward Lauren ter is located at 4444 East Ave., Livermore. down the stretch with a 21-6 victory over St. The SM/SC STOMP! team came out Gonzalez, with 2 attempts, a steal, a rebound, Bothwell Park is located at 2466 Eighth Joan. The Flyers only led by 5 at the break. strong in the first half with Chloe King scor- a blocked shot and forced a turnover. St., Livermore. For more information, call ing big with 6 points, 2 rebounds, a steal and Coming out strong, breaking the press and a blocked shot. Shannon Meyer continues putting together flawless teamwork, they with her outstanding performance as a Power took over the scoreboard with a 14-2 run in Forward grabbing 4 rebounds, 2 steals, caus- the 2nd half. Center, Kate Marcel drained 8 ing 2 turnovers and goes 2 for 2 under the points for the Flyers at power forward, Aliyah hoop dropping in 4 points for STOMP! On Barone, dropped in another 5. Emma Zika the opposite side of the key was Jessica Stahl and Emily March played tough in the paint, leading her team on defense with 8 rebounds, shutting down St. Joan’s penetration in the snagging 4 turnovers, 2 steals, a blocked key. Point guards, Big and Little Maddy, shot and shooting 25% from the field. Also stopped St. Joan’s power player with a PAGE 8 - The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012 Research Finds That Plastics Could Be Used to Detect Nuclear Substances When a young man was ad- liquids may lead to widespread at 18 percent, we were able to vised to pursue a career in plas- use of new PSD materials as distinguish neutrons from gamma tics in the 1967 movie, “The large-volume and low-cost neu- rays. Once we hit 40 percent, we Graduate,” people could not have tron detectors.” achieved the full function. envisioned one of the material’s Zaitseva’s colleague, fellow “It was a painful process that uses developed by Lawrence Lab materials scientist Steve took several months. Natalia was Livermore National Laboratory Payne, noted that in some ways the one who made the connec- scientists. it is a particularly good time tion between the stilbene/DPAC In a key discovery, a team of to develop a new method for mixtures and saw a hypothetical Lab researchers has developed detecting neutrons, given the route for the use of plastics. This the first plastic material capable advantages and drawbacks of insight was important and it was of efficiently distinguishing neu- current methods. what we needed to make the trons from gamma rays, some- Organic crystals serve as one breakthrough.” thing not thought possible for the of the best neutron detectors. The “When we started this work, past five decades or so. crystals can be difficult to grow there was little understanding As a result, the new technol- and obtain in large volumes. of how PSD was affected by ogy could assist in detecting Liquid scintillators present some the chemical composition of nuclear substances such as plu- hazards that hinder their use. Gas the scintillating materials. We tonium and uranium that might detectors that rely on helium-3, a have found some of the major be used in improvised nuclear byproduct of tritium’s radioactive principles of molecular interac- devices by terrorists and could decay, have run into problems tion that determine the presence help in detecting neutrons in because the United States now or absence of PSD properties in major scientific projects. produces markedly less tritium. organic scintillators,” Zaitseva With the material’s low cost, Plastics have more flexibility said. huge plastic sheets could be in their composition and structure Zaitseva, who joined the Lab formed easily into dramatically than crystals, as well as having in 1993 after pioneering work on larger surface areas than other none of the hazards associated rapid crystal growth at Moscow A view of Mount Diablo from Joseph Galvin Ranch. (Photo by Brad Heckman) neutron detectors currently in with liquid scintillators. State University, noted that her use. This could aid in the protec- “On balance, the plastic scin- first work at Livermore was to tion of ports, stadiums and other tillators may turn out to be best produce large-scale potassium large facilities. for detecting neutrons once the dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) The studies, detailed in an factors of usage in the field, cost, crystals of high optical quality Two Properties Increase Size of article appearing in the jour- and performance are taken into for the National Ignition Facil- nal Nuclear Instruments and consideration,” Payne said. ity laser. EBRPD's Morgan Territory Preserve Methods in Physics Research In their work, Livermore “Now we have applied these A, was published online in late scientists demonstrated a plastic techniques for growing pure or- Morgan Territory Regional the creek into Mount Diablo State said John Kopchik, Executive December. scintillator that can discriminate ganic crystals for neutron detec- Preserve is growing larger as two Park. These resources make the Director of the East Contra Costa “It has been established opin- between neutrons and gamma tion. By studying these crystals, of Save Mount Diablo’s proper- lands a high priority for preser- County Habitat Conservancy, ion since the 1950s that organic rays. we are starting to understand new ties are transferred to the East vation. which provided much of the crystals and liquid scintillators They have found that plastic physical phenomena that can be Bay Regional Park District in the “We are very pleased to be funding in this case. can work for detecting neutrons, scintillators have a roughly 20 applied to discover new plastic next few weeks. able to acquire these lands that Even though the properties but that plastics are not suitable percent finer resolution for neu- scintillators,” she said. Both Moss Rock, 20 acres are strategically located adjacent were bargains, both properties’ for neutron detection,” said tron-gamma ray discrimination The team’s research to acquired in 2010, and Joseph to existing preserved lands, allow- values have declined steeply Natalia Zaitseva, the paper’s than liquid scintillators. Crystals, develop plastic scintilla- Galvin Ranch, 62 acres acquired ing us to link existing and future since they were originally ac- lead author and an Lab materials in turn, are about 20 percent finer tors has been funded by the in 2003, will be added to the Pre- trails and habitat corridors,” said quired by Save Mount Diablo. scientist. Scintillators are special in resolution than plastics in their National Nuclear Security Ad- serve thanks to funding from the EBRPD Board President Beverly The organization is passing along materials that light up when ex- analysis. ministration’s (NNSA) Office of East Contra Costa County Habi- Lane. “The Galvin Ranch parcel, the discount to the public. “The cited by ionizing radiation. “We do not see plastic scin- Nonproliferation and Verifica- tat Conservancy. Both parcels about 61 acres of pristine habitat, transfers represent a small do- For years, plastic materials tillators as competitors with tion Research and Development nation to the Regional Park have been used in large, low- crystals because they serve dif- (NA-22). include stretches of Marsh Creek, is especially beautiful.” cost detectors for portals and ferent purposes. In another part In addition to Zaitseva and critical habitat and a wildlife cor- Save Mount Diablo secures District. We want the public to high-energy physics facilities. of the program we are trying to Payne, other members of the ridor for both common and rare land when opportunities arise, have access as soon as possible” While they could detect neutrons grow crystals like stilbene in new LLNL multi-disciplinary team species such as California red- thanks to the support of individu- explained Ron Brown, Execu- and gamma rays, they have been ways,” Zaitseva said. that achieved the advance are: legged frog. The Mount Diablo al donors, then restores them until tive Director of Save Mount incapable of distinguishing one “We see our work as being materials scientists Nerine globe lily and Diablo sunflower, a long term managing agency, Diablo. “Future generations will from the other, the key to iden- at the beginning. We’re excited Cherepy and Leslie Carman, both endemic, or limited to the like the East Bay Regional Park be able to enjoy all of the beauty tifying nuclear substances such about where our research is head- synthetic chemists Benjamin Ru- Mount Diablo area, have been District, can add them to their of Mount Diablo’s natural lands as uranium and plutonium from ing. We would like to study and pert and Paul Martinez, nuclear found on the properties as well. park system often with the help including its flora and fauna.” benign radioactive sources. see whether the plastic scintil- scientists Andrew Glenn and Joseph Galvin Ranch, marked of public funds, like those of Although the properties have “By studying mixed crystals lators can achieve results at the Iwona Pawelczak, computer on Morgan Territory Road by the East Contra Costa County transferred to the East Bay Re- and mixed liquids, we found that same level as the best crystals,” simulation scientist Sebastien two white bridges, is especially Habitat Conservancy. “The Con- gional Park District they will not to achieve neutron discrimination Zaitseva added. Hamel, University of California, rich in biodiversity given its servancy is happy to work with be open to the public until man- from gamma rays, we had to in- The thought that plastic scin- Davis graduate student Michelle mosaic of habitats including Save Mount Diablo and East agement plans are in place. crease the dye concentration in tillators might be made with Faust and mechanical technician the creek’s riparian vegetation, Bay Regional Park District to the plastics by at least ten-fold efficient neutron-gamma ray Keith Lewis. chaparral, grassland and blue oak protect these valuable properties. Save Mount Diablo will lead greater than would typically be discrimination came about, in One of the next steps for the woodland. Moss Rock, which They help achieve a fast start in guided hikes on Moss Rock used,” Zaitseva explained. part, from mixing a scintillating team will be to find the right is surrounded on three sides by implementing the East Contra Sunday, January 29th, and Joseph In their paper, the team wrote: chemical — diphenylacetylene or commercial partners. Currently, protected land, will remove the Costa County Habitat Conser- Galvin Ranch Saturday, February “Efficient pulse shape discrimi- DPAC – with a stilbene crystal. active negotiations to license the threat of development from the vation Plan, which is designed 4th for a last sneak peek. Visit nation (PSD) (between neutrons “As we mixed DPAC with technology are under way with SaveMountDiablo.org for more and gamma rays) combined with stilbene at 5 percent, 10 percent two companies, one of which area to maintain uninterrupted to balance endangered species easy fabrication and advantages and 15 percent, there was noth- is already engaged in process oak-bay woodland rising from protection with future growth” details. in deployment of plastics over ing,” Payne recalls. “Suddenly development.

Sandia Researcher Develops New Tool to Help Troubleshoot Problems Sandia National Laboratories ternet-connected systems within by performing pertinent DNS Currently, the Web interface plication programming interfaces informational. computer scientist Casey Deccio the government can verify that lookups and it makes the analysis is the primary source for viewers (API) can be designed to allow Sandia National Laboratories has developed a visualization the responses are authoritative available via the Web interface. to observe data, though Dec- administrators to programmati- is a multiprogram laboratory tool known as DNSViz to help and have not been altered. Still, The active analysis occurs pe- cio intends to expand DNSViz cally access the information in- operated and managed by Sandia network administrators within the the hiccups with implementing riodically to build a history of functionality to allow access via stead of manually browsing the Corporation, a wholly owned federal government and global DNSSEC convinced Deccio that DNSSEC deployment over time other means. For example, alert DNSViz website. subsidiary of Lockheed Martin IT community better understand there was a need for a tool like and provide a historical reference mechanisms might be used to Deccio has the tool running Corporation, for the U.S. De- Domain Name System Secu- DNSViz. for DNS administrators. inform affected parties, and ap- in the background on Sandia/ partment of Energy’s National rity (DNSSEC) and to help them DNS, said Deccio, is inher- California’s servers, monitor- Nuclear Security Administration. troubleshoot problems. ently insecure. Without DNS- ing a list of some 100,000 DNS With main facilities in Albu- DNSSEC is a security feature SEC, tampering by third-party names. It performs an analysis querque, N.M., and Livermore, mandated for all federal infor- attackers could go undetected, a couple times each day and of- Calif., Sandia has major R&D mation systems by the White thus redirecting online communi- fers a situational awareness of responsibilities in national secu- House’s Office of Management cations to unwanted destinations. what the DNS configuration for rity, energy and environmental and Budget (OMB). The 2008 This represents a particularly each name looks like from top technologies, and economic mandate requires that “the top troublesome problem for .gov to bottom. competitiveness. level .gov domain will be DNS- addresses owned by government Though the functionality pro- SEC-signed, and processes to organizations guarding national vided by DNSViz could poten- enable secure delegated sub-do- security information and other tially be included in a marketable mains will be developed.” vital data. software product that’s sold by a The entity that serves to trans- Deccio believes DNSSEC for-profit company, Deccio says late the hostname of a Uniform is of little use if network ad- he envisions it as an open-source Resource Locator (URL) into ministrators don’t know how to tool available to anyone who an Internet Protocol (IP) address configure or use it. needs it. With further funding, is known as the Domain Name He describes DNSViz as a he hopes to expand the tool so System (DNS). A DNS “lookup” “tool for visualizing the status of Sandia computer scientist Casey Deccio developed a software that it can analyze DNS health is a prerequisite for doing almost a DNS zone.” It provides a visual tool called DNSViz to help network administrators with Domain and security on a continuous anything on the Internet, includ- analysis of the DNSSEC authen- Name System (DNS) vulnerabilities. DNSViz provides a visual basis, essentially creating a full- ing Web browsing, emailing or tication chain for a domain name analysis of the DNSSEC authentication chain for a domain name blown monitoring system that videoconferencing. and its resolution path in the DNS and its resolution path in the DNS namespace. (Photo by Dino is scalable, versatile and more Although the mandate made namespace, made available via Vournas) Click on the thumbnail for a high-resolution image. perfect sense, said Deccio, there a Web browser to any Internet soon emerged a problem when user at http://dnsviz.net/. It vi- .gov organizations actually began sually highlights and describes deploying DNSSEC. configuration errors detected by “DNSSEC is hard to config- the tool to assist administrators in ure correctly and has to undergo identifying and fixing DNSSEC- regular maintenance,” he said. “It related configuration problems. adds a great deal of complexity DNSViz brings together all the to IT systems, and if configured components that work together improperly or deployed onto for DNSSEC to function properly servers that aren’t fully compat- into a single graphical represen- ible, it keeps users from access- tation. The resulting visualization ing .gov sites. They just get error is a collection of configuration responses.” data and relationships that are The still-new DNSSEC secu- otherwise difficult to assemble, rity feature is designed to allow assess and understand. user applications like Web brows- To help network administra- ers to ensure that the IP addresses tors in their DNSSEC deploy- they have received from the DNS ment, Sandia’s DNSViz tool have not been “spoofed” by any- functions in two primary ways: It one with ill intent. As such, In- actively analyzes a domain name The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012 - PAGE 9

Financial Aid Workshops For additional information, please the Great Horned Owl, the “dead of Marine Corps Reserve and several Susan Wells-Fairlands Elementary Africa Foundation or to make a tax- Las Positas College will offer high email the Las Positas College Fi- winter” is nesting time. Join this easy nonprofit organizations throughout School. deductible donation, please visit us school students and their parents four nancial Aid Office at lpcfinaid@ hike just before dark to start listening Northern California. at www.asanteafrica.org “Cash for College” Financial Aid laspositascollege.edu or visit www. for owl vocalizations. If it’s a lucky “The outpouring of support for Workshops, including drawings for calgrants.org. night, prepare to see a silent flier or our 25th annual Toys for Tots and $15,000 Grant Las Positas College is located at two. Dress warmly; no flashlights. Operation: One Warm Coat collec- Asante Africa Foundation has Western Dental Opens a $1,000 scholarship. received a $15,000 grant from Cari- With the addition of a new com- “The workshops will cover the 3000 Campus Hill Drive in Liver- Appropriate for ages 8 and older; tions was tremendous,” said Rick bined general dentistry and orthodon- most important basic topics about more. children must be accompanied by Turley, president of Coldwell Banker dad Partners to fund a girls’ health adult. Please call 925-960-2400 in Residential Brokerage. “We look and education outreach initiative. As tics practice in Livermore, Western financial aid and teach attendees how Dental Services, Inc., continues its to maximize their opportunities,” advance to reserve your spot. Can- forward to these holiday campaigns part of Asante Africa Foundation’s Final Honors celed if raining. each year and 2011 was no different. mission to create safe and healthy expansion in Northern California. said Las Positas College Financial A funeral detail will be held on Aid Officer Andi Schreibman. “High There is a $5 per vehicle parking Our agents, staff, clients and friends learning environments, to strengthen When it opens on January 27, the Sat., Jan. 28 at 1400 hours at Valley fee at either entrance to Sycamore really came through with their dona- teaching quality and enhance learn- Livermore office will join existing school seniors attending the work- Community Church 4455 Del Valle shops who file a Free Application Grove Park. A $2 donation is re- tions and we were able to help make ing, the initiative will target root Western Dental locations in Fremont, Pkwy in Pleasanton. Final honors for quested to help support the programs, it a wonderful holiday for so many causes that contribute to significant Hayward and Tracy. for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Luis Muriollo, USMC, Korea, will be and a Cal Grant GPA Verification by unless other fees are specified. Par- Bay Area families in need.” school drop out rates among pubes- An on-site grand opening celebra- presented. Volunteers are needed for ticipants may call 925-960-2400 for In all, 56 Northern California cent girls in deeply impoverished tion from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. is set for March 2 will qualify for the $1,000 color guard, flag folding and presen- scholarship drawings, with winners more information. Coldwell Banker Residential Broker- and rural communities of Kenya. January 28, at 2177 Las Positas Court. tation, and final salute. To volunteer age offices participated in the Toys The project illustrates the growth of to be announced in April.” please email Johnny Delashaw at The free event will feature food, Following is the workshop for Tots campaign and 39 offices Asante Africa Foundation’s programs drinks, a dental “goodie bag” and [email protected]. Jazz/Hip-Hop Clinic in the Operation: One Warm Coat and the resolve to build sustainable schedule: activities for children. San Francisco • Livermore High School Theatre, The Granada High School dance drive. Eight offices in the East Bay and effective solutions in partnership with local leaders and community radio station KYLD-FM (94.9) will Thursday, Feb. 2, 7 p.m. Parenting Programs team will present its 7th annual dance participated in the donation drives broadcast from the event. • Dublin High School Little The- Throughout the winter and spring, clinic on Sat., Feb. 4 from 3 to 6 p.m. and collected 1,315 toys and 583 members. The grant will fund two vital A total of 15 experienced dental atre, Wednesday, Feb. 8, 6:30 p.m. the Livermore Public Library will in Granada’s main gym, 400 Wall coats. That included the Danville and administrative staff members • Las Positas College, Building host speakers on a variety of parent- Street, Livermore. office, which collected 600 toys, the components: the construction of girls’ ing topics. Oakland-Piedmont office, which toilets with hand-washing facilities will provide comprehensive oral 2400, Saturday, Feb. 11, two ses- Featured will be jazz/hip-hop health care. sions: 11 a.m. - noon, Room 2420, The first speaker to be featured dance. The clinic includes dance collected 300 toys, the Pleasanton at Oloorroito Primary School, and will be Ann Laye, a speech therapist office, which collected 150 toys and an education outreach program that The new Livermore dental of- Informational Workshop and 11 a.m. instruction with separate routine and fice will feature Western Dental’s - 2 p.m., Room 2412. A concurrent retired from the Livermore Valley 225 coats, and the Livermore office, trains and educates female adult performance for middle and elemen- mentors, teachers, and community proprietary ORION technology. The “drop-in FAFSA lab” will be held in Joint Unified School District, who tary age, snacks, dance team t-shirt, which collected 260 coats. a Computer Lab, to assist applicants worked extensively with preschool leaders. system includes bilingual check-in CD with music and video to practice “The construction of girls’ la- kiosks, digital X-rays, electronic with filing the FAFSA application. populations. Ms. Laye will speak at home, and an invitation to perform Personal assistance will be provided with parents about speech issues and Teacher Stipends trines, means that girls won’t have dental records and back-office track- encouraging language and speech at a Granada JV basketball game on The Tri-Valley Branch of the Cali- to miss school due to their bodies’ ing systems that ensure careful and in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Tues., Feb. 7. fornia Retired Teacher Association, Participants are asked to bring a pen, development as your child grows changing needs, “ said Erna Grasz, attentive service. from infancy to two years old. This The clinic cost is $50 per person. CalRTA-Division #85, has awarded CEO of Asante Africa Foundation. Dr. Emad Boutros joins Dr. Reem 2011 W-2 forms (or tax returns) for Bring water bottle, please wear parents and student, and all other presentation will take place in the fifteen teachers $100 stipends from “Meanwhile the education program Stephanos in managing the office’s pertinent income and investment Storytime Room of the Civic Cen- comfortable clothing and appropriate a total of 148 applications. will provide tools to assist mentors, orthodontic and general dentistry information. ter Library, 1188 South Livermore shoes (sneakers, dance shoes). Hair Dublin Unified School District: teachers and community leaders to practices. The Livermore office will • Granada High School Cafeteria, Avenue, on Tuesday, February 7, should be tied back. Irene Fong-Dougherty Elementary help girls stand up for their unique be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday Wednesday, Feb. 15, 7 p.m. 2012 at 11:30 a.m. (immediately fol- Parents are invited to preview School; Trisha Hahn-Kolb Elemen- health needs.” The project is a collab- orative effort across the global com- through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4:30 Workshop topics will include lowing the Babies-Only Storytime). dancers at 5:45 p.m. the day of the tary School; Lorrin Harris-Fallon p.m., Saturday. For appointments, types of aid, deadlines, qualifica- The session will last approximately clinic. For information or to register, Middle School; Sam Shiell-Dublin munity, from the school leadership 30 minutes, with time for questions and villages to in-country resources call (925) 273-6001; orthodontics, tions, “independent” vs. “dependent” call Jamie Fagundes at 518-7978 or Elementary School, (925) 273-6011. definitions, application process,\ and answers. send an email to ochoa@sbcglorbal. Livermore Joint Unified School and partnering NGOs. This free program is recom- net. Caridad Partners’ grant reflects the For more information, visit www. resources for scholarships, impor- District: Vicki Lemek-Sunset El- westerndental.com. tant hints for completing a FAFSA, mended for parents of children from commitment of its members to sup- ementary School; Katelyn Medina- port nonprofits that impact the lives hints to minimize expected family birth to age 2. Contact Youth Services Christensen Middle School; Susan at (925) 373-5504 for more informa- Toys and Coats of women and girls internationally. contribution, and time for questions Coldwell Banker Residential Ortner-Livermore High School; Career Agents Course and answers. tion, or visit the website at www. In 2011, Caridad Partners focused Anh Truong, Farmers Insurance livermorelibrary.net . Brokerage collected 8,335 toys and Elizabeth Price-Jackson Elemen- their grant making efforts toward “Financial aid can help students tary School; Denise Watson-Lum- agent in Pleasanton, has completed pay for college and may be available 2,716 coats this holiday season to foundations that work to create op- the Career Agents Course at the Uni- benefit families in need throughout Granada High School; Jennifer portunity and improvement in the for either full or part-time students,” Winter Owls Weise-Livermore High School; Asa versity of Farmers training facility in Schreibman explained. “In addition Northern California. areas of economic development and Agoura Hills, California. Winter Owls is the topic of The annual Toys for Tots and Stern-Livermore Valley Charter education. to grants and scholarships, aid may the Sun., Jan. 29 Livermore Area “Anh completed the five-day include fee waivers, work-study Operation: One Warm Coat collec- School. Asante Africa Foundation is a Career Agents Course, which is Recreation and Park District ranger tion campaigns this holiday season Pleasanton Unified School Dis- 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization with positions, and student loans. These program. Meet Ranger Patti Cole at clearly defined and targeted to funds can help with such student marked the 25th consecutive year trict: Beth Christensen-Foothill High global headquarters in the U.S.A. enhance the professional skills of 5 p.m. at Sycamore Grove Park, 1051 that Coldwell Banker Residential School; Ellen Gardner-Pleasanton (1334 Carlton Place, Livermore, CA expenses as transportation and per- Wetmore Road. Farmers’ agents,” explained Annette sonal expenses as well as tuition and Brokerage has supported the efforts Middle School; Cindy McDon- 94550). To learn more about Asante Thompson, senior vice president of Local owls are very active dur- in partnership with the United States fees, room and board, and books and ing the winter. For species such as alds-Pleasanton Middle School; Farmers. supplies.”

Edward Charles Ambrose owners. Livermore with his parents. tured and supported her children church librarian; and worked as a 12-6-1933 to 1-10-2012 James (Jim) He and his friends would walk If you would like to make a and husband from the time they volunteer in the Oakland Temple Eddie, Ed, Raccy (he liked Russell Breznik the railroad tracks and pick up donation in his memory please woke up in the morning to the for twenty years. Raccoons) he answered to them August 30, 1968-December 12, scrap metal to sell for 10 cents send a check to Town Branch close of each day. Her loving Rhea remained physically all. He was a resident of Liver- 2011 to get money to go to the movies Hope Center, PO Box 1831, labor behind-the-scenes kept the and mentally active until the last more, CA Resident of Hayward and buy popcorn. He never got Prestonsberg, KY 41653 family running smoothly. She week of her life. She exercised for fifty James (Jim) Breznik, 43, used to the cost of the movies and set a quiet example of service at home every morning and rarely y e a r s , popcorn these days. He talked to others throughout her life. missed her daily neighborhood passed into eternal life on Mon- Rhea Hicken Black walk. She grew, shared, and p a s s i n g day, December 12, 2011. He about how the high school boys Resident of Livermore Rhea’s devotion to building physically moved the high school strong family bonds expanded as canned berries, peaches, and var- a w a y a t was born in Rhea Hicken Black passed ious vegetables every year. Rhea the age of San Jose, building to its present location. away on January 21, 2012 at the grandchildren and great-grand- had a deep interest in genealogy 78 with his California He was one of the first members age of 89. Beloved wife, moth- children joined her family. Her and spent much time organizing family by and moved of the Livermore FFA. er, grand- contributions to society continue and researching her ancestral his side. to Liver- On Dec. 8, 1941, he enlisted m o t h e r to brighten this world and will histories. She continued to sew, H e w a s more at the in the Navy. Serving for 4 years, and great- endure for generations through and for the last several years has b o r n i n age of 10. he was a proud member of g r a n d - her posterity. devoted her handiwork talents to Oakland, He gradu- the Black Cat Squadron. Their m o t h e r , In the 25 years since Val re- crocheting special bandages for g r o w - ated from Catalina airplanes were painted Rhea made tired from Sandia, he and Rhea leprosy patients in third world ing up in black to avoid detection by the traveled extensively throughout countries. Granada High School in 1986. her home the world. They made trips to Albany among many Italian Jim was predeceased by his enemy when they were out on in Liver- Rhea is survived by her hus- relatives. Ed worked at Lawrence patrol. One time they were shot China, Israel, Egypt, Australia, band of 68 years, ValGene Black grandparents Jake and Arleen more for New Zealand, Mexico, and most Livermore National Laboratory Ferraro, Stanley and Georgia at by John F. Kennedy in PT109. 50 years. of Livermore; four children, of Western Europe. Together Wayne Black (Mei-Yu) of El starting in 1959 and retiring in Breznik and his Aunt Mary I guess they were a little too well R h e a they visited the pyramids in 1991. Ruybalid. He leaves behind disguised. was born in Cerrito, CA; Karen Riggs (Larry) Egypt, rode camels in Morocco, of West Valley City, UT; Ken- He is survived by his wife his loving parents Kenneth and After the service he came back Salt Lake City, Utah on April 20, climbed Ayers Rock in Australia, Bonnie, daughter Elaine, step- Joanne Breznik, sisters Bonnie to Livermore and worked at vari- 1922, the fourth child in a family neth Black (Janelle) of Liver- and walked the Great Wall of more; Donald Black (Eliane) of daughters BJ and Mary, stepson Breznik-Young, Sherry (Kirk) ous jobs, ending up as a mechanic of seven children. Her childhood China. At age 57, Rhea and Val Karl and grandchildren Tyler, at Howdy Chevrolet. Then he and Slidell, LA; 11 grandchildren, 20 Pretzer, Melissa (Gerardo) Con- in Richmond, Utah was filled climbed the 17-mile trail to the great-grandchildren, and three Michael and Kiah. treras and nephews Shaun and his friend Bill Boyd opened an with activities she loved—drama, top of Half Dome and back in Auto Repair shop in what was siblings. Some of his favorite pastimes Jerid Pretzer, Mateo and Dominic track and field, cheerleading and one day. For nearly 40 years they A funeral will be held on Sat- included golf, bowling (with a Contreras and niece Giavanna called Joesville. poetry. She enjoyed playing the made frequent trips, as a couple urday, January 28, 2012 at 12:00 300 game) and most of all pho- Contreras. While he was a mechanic by violin and the piano. Growing and as a family, to the Hawaiian noon at The Church of Jesus tography. Taking pictures at wed- A celebration of Life will be trade, his real love was building. up in an agricultural community Islands—Oahu, Kauai, and the Christ of Latter-day Saints, 950 dings and of family and friends held on Saturday, January 28, He had no experience in house offered Rhea the opportunity to big island of Hawaii among their Mocho Street in Livermore. A along with winning some awards 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at Celebration building, so he would go around learn solid values and pioneer- favorite destinations. public viewing will be held prior in contests he entered showed Christian Center 1135 Bluebell to construction sites and see how ing skills. Her parents kept the Val and Rhea were active life- to the funeral, beginning at 10:30 his passion for photography. For Dr., Livermore, CA 94551. things were done as he built the largest garden in town and the long members of The Church of am at the same location. many years he developed his own home he would raise his children children learned to grow fruits Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Arrangements by Callaghan and vegetables, raise chickens, Rhea blessed countless lives pictures. Ed loved to entertain Thomas Harvey Olsen in. Many times he would come Mortuary. with card tricks and was a real home and tear out what he had bake bread, bottle and preserve with her church service. She 3/6/24 to 12/15/11 food, sew, embroider, and cro- held a variety of positions in the big jokester. He will truly be Livermore, CA native Tom done and re-do it. In 1965 he built and then worked in Olsen’s chet. These skills served Rhea church throughout her life. She missed! Olsen, 87, passed away peace- throughout her life. taught and served as an officer Ed was also a member of f u l l y i n Automotive Repair on Fourth St. In 1941 Rhea met ValGene in the children’s organization, the SIRs Branch 155 for many years his home Later he built another shop beside Black of Delta, Utah. They were women’s organization, and the serving as secretary and treasurer. in Calp- it where Livermore Collision is both attending Brigham Young youth organization; served as the He was awarded a Honorary Life ine, CA. now located. In 1974 the family University in Provo, Utah. Val Member pin for his service. H e w a s moved to property in Oklahoma enlisted in the naval officers He was preceded in death by surround- where he built a home and ranch, training program in 1942. Rhea his parents Lawrence and Ca- ed by his starting with nothing more than and Val married in the Salt Lake mille Ambrose, sister Marilyn family. a well. The family returned to City Temple of The Church of Je- (Toots) Guasco (Arnold) and He was CA in 1978 and moved to Cal- sus Christ of Latter-day Saints in brother Don Ambrose. b o r n t o pine. He built 2 homes there. 1944. After the end of World War Family and friends are invited Hans and He spent his time doing what he II, they moved to Albuquerque, to a memorial service for Eddie Hazel (Ainlay) Olsen in a tent loved best, building, fishing and New Mexico where Val finished on Monday, January 30, at 2:00 close to where ValleyCare Center traveling. his engineering degrees and Rhea pm at Callaghan Mortuary in is located. Hans worked on the He is survived by his wife, worked as an office manager. Livermore at 3833 East Ave. In Hoover Dam and the Oakland Johanna; sister Patricia Miller; In 1947 they moved to Los lieu of sending flowers the fam- Bay Bridge for Henry J. Kaiser. daughters Robin (Cliff) Olsen Alamos, New Mexico where ily requests that those wishing Tom had a great childhood Wood, Pamela (Jeff) Olsen De Rhea began her chosen 64-year to honor Eddie make a donation growing up in Livermore and Cew Jurach; grandchildren Tom- career as a remarkable mother to: Hospice of the East Bay, remembered when they used to my Jr, Travis and Tanden Olsen, and grandmother. Their first Bruns House Inpatient Facility, drive cattle through the streets. Samuel and Benjamin Wood, and son Wayne was born in Los Ala- 2849 Miranda Ave., Alamo, CA He sold newspapers, which he Hannah DeCew; and five great mos. The Black family moved 94507 picked up at the train depot. The grandchildren. He was preceded to Albuquerque in 1949, where train brought homing pigeons in death by his son Tommy Lee their daughter Karen was born, from Oakland. Tom would re- Olsen. followed by sons Kenneth and lease them to fly back to their At his request no services Donald. The family moved to will be held. He will be buried in Livermore in 1962. Rhea nur- PAGE 10 - The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012 The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012 - PAGE 11

LEGAL NOTICES business as: Kitty Hawk Den- Drive, Oakland, CA NET- a General partnership EMPLOYMENT NOTICES/ANNOUNCEMENTS tal Care, 53 Wright Brothers WORKING/SOUTH COUNTY The registrant began to trans- FOR INFORMATION 65) HELP WANTED 155) NOTICES Ave., Ste. C, Livermore, CA BIDDERS CONFERENCE act business under the ficti- PLACING LEGAL 94551, is hereby registered by RFQ #900953 for Operation tious business name(s) listed JANITOR / FLOOR TECH “NOTICE TO READERS: NOTICES the following owner(s): and Maintenance Services of above on N/A. Evening Shift. Must have California law requires that Call 925-243-8000 Kimberly King, 95 Windward Sewer and Water Systems in Signature of Registrants: own transportation and contractors taking jobs that to-

Commons, Livermore, CA the Alameda County Service s/: John Norris - General clean driving record. tal $500 or more (labor and/or FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 94551 Area (CSA) R-1967-1 Castle- Partner (925)245-0595 materials) be licensed by the NAME STATEMENT This business is conducted by wood, Thursday, February This statement was filed with 56) ADULT CARE Contractors State License FILE NO. 459223 an Individual 9, 2012, 2:00 p.m. – Public the County Clerk of Alameda Board. State law also requires The following person(s) doing The registrant began to trans- Works Agency, Room #230A, on January 20, 2012. Expires Independent Contractors that contractors include their business as: At Ease, 764-C act business under the ficti- 951 Turner Ct., Hayward, CA January 20, 2017. Wanted, Senior Home license numbers on all adver- Hayes Ave, Livermore, CA tious business name(s) listed Response Due by 2:00 p.m. The Independent Legal No. Health Care. Must have ex- tising. Check your contractor’s 94550, is hereby registered by above on 02/25/2002. on March 16, 2012 County 3169. Published January 26, perience. Senior Solutions, status at www.cslb.ca.gov the following owner(s): Signature of Registrants:s/: Contact: Evelyn Benzon February 2, 9, 16, 2012. Inc 925-443-3101 or 800-321-CSLB (2752). Mary Elizabeth Binder, 764- Kimberly King, DDS (510) 208-9622 or via email: Unlicensed persons taking C Hayes Ave, Livermore, ANIMALS 160) BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY This statement was filed with [email protected] jobs less than $500 must CA 94550 the County Clerk of Alameda Attendance at Networking 2) CATS/ DOGS BE WARY of out of area state in their advertisements This business is conducted by What Does the Future Bring on December 30, 2011. Ex- Conference is Non-manda- companies. Check with the that they are not licensed by an Individual ADOPT A DOG OR CAT, pires December 30, 2016. tory. Information regarding local Better Business Bureau the Contractors State License The registrant began to trans- for adoption information The Independent Legal No. the above may be obtained at before you send money or Board.” act business under the ficti- contact Valley Humane for Housing Industry? 3163. Published January 19, the Alameda County Current fees. Read and understand By Cher Wollard tious business name(s) listed Society at any contracts before you sign. REAL ESTATE 26, February 2, 9, 2012. Contracting Opportunities 925 426-8656. Sales of existing homes rose nationally in December, for the third above on 7/26/1995. Shop around for rates. Inland Valley Publishing FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Internet website at www. Signature of Registrants:s/: Adopt a new best friend: Co. Client Code:04126- straight month, finishing 2011 with a modest overall increase in sales NAME STATEMENT acgov.org. TO PLACE A Mary Elizabeth Binder TVAR, the Tri-Valley Animal 00001 Re: Legal Notice for from 2010, according to a report released this week by the National FILE NO. 460001 1/26/12 CLASSIFIED AD This statement was filed with Rescue, offers animals for Classified Ads The following person(s) doing CNS-2248460# call 925-243-8000 Association of Realtors. the County Clerk of Alameda adoption every Saturday The Federal Fair Housing business as: Mind Your Own THE INDEPENDENT Legal But at the same time, the national median home price fell slightly, on December 13, 2011. Ex- and Sunday, excluding MERCHANDISE Act, Title VII of the Business, 6906 Village Pkwy, No. 3168 pires December 13, 2016. most holidays. Saturdays Civil Rights Act of 1964, and to $164,500. Dublin, CA 94568, is hereby YAMAHA PIANO The Independent Legal No. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, (Disklavier) Walnut Fin- state law prohibit advertise- Foreclosure filings, including notices of default, scheduled auc- registered by the following 3155. Published January 12, NAME STATEMENT dogs and cats are available ish. Excellent Condition. ments for housing and owner(s): tions and bank repossessions, rose incrementally for the quarter, but 19, 26, February 2, 2012. FILE NO. 460506 atthe Pleasanton Farmers Like new. Asking $4,250. employment that contain Mitzi Parr, 3350 Santa Rita that tiny increase represented a jump of 34 percent from the previous The following person(s) doing Market at W. Angela and (925)875-0886 any preference, limitation FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Rd, Pleasanton, CA 94566 business as: Bay Area Code, First Streets. Two locations or discrimination based on year. California was among the hardest hit states with an increase of NAME STATEMENT This business is conducted by 127) LOST/ FOUND 551 Summertree Drive, Liver- will showcase cats only: protected 21 percent. FILE NO. 459503 an Individual more, CA 94551, is hereby The following person(s) doing Petsmart in Dublin noon to 4 LOST classes, including race, Plus homeownership rates have fallen. California now has the sec- The registrant began to trans- registered by the following business as: Fire Stations 4 and the Pet Food Express in Red Poinsettia Clip color, religion, sex, handi- act business under the ficti- owner(s): ond-lowest rate of home ownership in the nation, after New York. Hire, 3147-A Independence Livermore 1 to 4. Sundays, Earring Lost downtown cap, familial status tious business name(s) listed (1)John Hardin Norris, 551 Despite the plunge in home prices over the last five years, our Drive, Livermore, CA 94551, cats are at Petsmart in Livermore, Friday 12/16. or national origin. above on N/A. Summertree Drive, Liver- is hereby registered by the Dublin 1 to 4, and PetCo in If found, please call IVPC does not knowingly state continues to have the second-highest median home value in Signature of Registrants:s/: more, CA 94551 (2)Joseph following owner(s): San Ramon 11 to 3. (925)447-1762 accept any advertisements the nation. Mitzi Parr Paul Krick, 2175 Ramish Wicktonville Fire Department, TVAR at (925) 803-7043 that are in violation This statement was filed with Drive, San Jose, CA 95131 So what does all that mean? Sales are up but prices are down, Inc., 3147-A Independence website at www.tvar.org of the law. the County Clerk of Alameda This business is conducted by foreclosure filings are up but – at least in the Tri-Valley – listings of Drive, Livermore, CA 94551 on January 9, 2012. Expires distressed properties are down. This business is conducted by January 9, 2017. Mostly it means consumers are uncertain about the future of hous- a Corporation The Independent Legal No. The registrant began to trans- 3164. Published January 19, ing, making some potential buyers and sellers reluctant to make a act business under the ficti- 26, February 2, 9, 2012. move. tious business name(s) listed Given that Americans continue to value homeownership as a sig- above on N/A. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Signature of Registrants:s/: NAME STATEMENT nificant part of the American Dream, what would it take to reverse Paul M. George, Senior Vice FILE NO. 460031 course and enter a sustainable rally in the housing sector? President, Operations The following person(s) doing Marcie Geffner, a real estate reporter and former senior editor of This statement was filed with business as: The Good Earth California Real Estate magazine, writing for this month’s issue of Real the County Clerk of Alameda Candle Company, 4610 Cross on December 21, 2011. Ex- Road, Livermore, CA 94550, Estate magazine, looked at five areas that could make a difference: pires December 21, 2016. is hereby registered by the 1. Increase Demand. The Independent Legal No. following owner(s): Increasing demand is clearly linked with income stability – people 3157. Published January 12, Jeanette Maurer, 4610 Cross who fear losing their jobs are not going to sign on to a major 30-year 19, 26, February 2, 2012. Road, Livermore, CA 94550 This business is conducted by commitment. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS an Individual “We need to find a way to give people a sense of certainty about NAME STATEMENT The registrant began to trans- FILE NO. 460015-16 their future income prospects,” Mark Fleming, chief economist at act business under the ficti- CoreLogic real estate research firm in Santa Ana, told Geffner. The following person(s) do- tious business name(s) listed ing business as: (1) NDura above on N/A. This seems obvious, and with unemployment rates falling through- - Corp (2) Changiio.com, Signature of Registrants:s/: out the Bay Area, we may be on our way to solving this part of the 3028 Gardella Plaza, Liver- Jeanette Maurer, Owner more, CA 94551, is hereby equation. This statement was filed with But Part 2 of the Demand issue is something Fleming calls “de- registered by the following the County Clerk of Alameda owner(s): on January 9, 2012. Expires flationary expectations.” This is the assumption on the part of many NDura - Corp, 3028 Gardella January 9, 2017. potential homebuyers that prices will fall further. Plaza, Livermore, CA 94551 The Independent Legal No. “That removes the incentive to (buy) now,” he said. This business is conducted by 3165. Published January 19, Buyers who are looking to purchase their home at the very bottom a Corporation 26, February 2, 9, 2012. The registrant began to trans- of the market may find themselves left behind, some experts say. act business under the ficti- FICTITIOUS BUSINESS With interest rates on 30-year conventional mortgages hovering at tious business name(s) listed NAME STATEMENT an astonishingly low 4 percent, the monthly costs of homeownership above on 1/9/2012. FILE NO. 460010 Signature of Registrants:s/: The following person(s) doing may never be lower. Carlos D. Aguilera - Presi- business as: Smoker Friendly, Buyers in the Tri-Valley appear to be getting the message. Proper- dent 1318 N. Vasco Road, Liver- ties – especially moderately priced homes in good condition – are This statement was filed with more, CA 94551, is hereby eliciting fast sales often with multiple offers. In some cases, buyers the County Clerk of Alameda registered by the following on January 9, 2012. Expires owner(s): are bidding up prices to get the home they want. January 9, 2017. Mohammed Akram Tokhi, 2. Increase Supply. The Independent Legal No. 1318 N. Vasco Road, Liver- Part of what is driving this fast pace is the low level of inven- 3158. Published January 12, more, CA 94551 tory. 19, 26, February 2, 2012. This business is conducted by an Individual New home construction has slowed dramatically over the last few FICTITIOUS BUSINESS The registrant began to trans- years, and sellers who are underwater on their homes are reluctant to NAME STATEMENT act business under the ficti- FILE NO. 460100 sell if they don’t have to. tious business name(s) listed Green and others say many banks are holding onto a “shadow The following person(s) doing above on N/A. business as: D. B. Services, Signature of Registrants:s/: inventory” of foreclosed homes, fearing they would be a drag on the 2487 Wellingham Dr., Liver- Mohammed Akram Tokhi, housing market. more, CA 94551, is hereby Member & Owner registered by the following But, says Green, a selloff of these distressed properties might help This statement was filed with move the market toward recovery. owner(s): the County Clerk of Alameda Douglas Brenzel, 2487 on January 9, 2012. Expires 3. Manage Equity. Wellingham Dr., Livermore, January 9, 2017. Homeowners without equity – those who want to sell but who CA 94551 The Independent Legal No. owe more on their homes than they could sell them for — are add- This business is conducted by 3166. Published January 26, ing to the drag in inventory. An estimated one-third of California an Individual February 2, 9, 16, 2012. The registrant began to trans- homeowners who have a mortgage owe more on their homes than act business under the ficti- FICTITIOUS BUSINESS they are worth. tious business name(s) listed NAME STATEMENT Especially in the Central Valley – Bakersfield, Fresno, Modesto above on 1/10/2012. FILE NO. 460195 Signature of Registrants:s/: The following person(s) doing – principal reduction may be the only viable solution, Green said. Doug Brenzel, Owner business as: Change, 129 “Without it, I just don’t see that happening for a long, long This statement was filed with S. Livermore Ave., Liver- time.” the County Clerk of Alameda more, CA 94550, is hereby 4. Balance Financing Guidelines. on January 11, 2012. Expires registered by the following January 11, 2017. owner(s): Lax underwriting standards in mortgage financing was a major fac- The Independent Legal No. Nicholas Boer, 454 Stanford tor in the collapse of the housing market. But today, lending standards 3160. Published January 19, Ct., Livermore, CA 94550 have veered too far in the opposite direction, making it difficult for 26, February 2, 9, 2012. This business is conducted by an Individual even highly qualified borrowers to obtain a mortgage. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS The registrant began to trans- Delays in underwriting have lead many sellers to accept all-cash NAME STATEMENT act business under the ficti- offers, even if they are for less money, just to ensure the transaction FILE NO. 459983 tious business name(s) listed The following person(s) doing will close in a timely manner. above on N/A. 5. Create and Implement Clear Policy. business as: Luke’s Custom Signature of Registrants:s/: Pool Service, 856 Olivina Nicholas Boer, Owner Sean O’Toole, CEO of Foreclosure Radar, which tracks distressed Ave, Livermore, CA 94551, This statement was filed with properties, said what the market needs is “a clear long-term housing is hereby registered by the the County Clerk of Alameda following owner(s): policy.” on January 12, 2012. Expires He said major changes in tax and housing policies should wait Lukas Swift, 856 Olivina Ave, January 12, 2017. Livermore, CA 94551 The Independent Legal No. until the market stabilizes, as such proposals add to consumer un- This business is conducted by 3167. Published January 26, certainty. an Individual February 2, 9, 16, 2012. The good news is people continue to want to live and work in Cali- The registrant began to trans- act business under the ficti- NOTICE of INVITING BIDS fornia. Ultimately, that may be what makes the biggest difference. tious business name(s) listed Notice is hereby given that above on 12/28/11. sealed competitive bids will Signature of Registrants:s/: be accepted in the office of the Hutchinson to Address Real Estate Lukas Swift, Owner GSA-Purchasing Department, This statement was filed with County of Alameda, 1401 the County Clerk of Alameda Lakeside Drive, Suite 907, Alliance of Livermore on January 6, 2012. Expires Oakland, CA 94612 NET- Gov Hutchinson, assistant general counsel and staff vice presi- January 6, 2017. WORKING/NORTH COUNTY dent of the California Association of Realtors, will be the featured The Independent Legal No. BIDDERS CONFERENCE speaker at the Feb. 2 meeting of the Real Estate Alliance of Livermore 3161. Published January 19, RFQ #900953 for Operation (R.E.A.L.). 26, February 2, 9, 2012. and Maintenance Services of Sewer and Water Systems in The meetings, which are open to all Realtors and those in affiliated FICTITIOUS BUSINESS the Alameda County Service professions who do business in Livermore, are held Thursday morn- NAME STATEMENT Area (CSA) R-1967-1 Castle- FILE NO. 459901 ings at First Street Alehouse, 2106 First Street, Livermore. Doors open wood, Wednesday, February at 8 a.m. for networking. The meeting runs 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Admis- The following person(s) doing 8, 2012, 10:00 a.m. – General business as: Virtual Polymers, Services Agency, Room 222, sion is $4 at the door, and includes coffee and light refreshments. 2447 Rivers Bend Circle, 2nd Floor, 1401 Lakeside A popular speaker, Hutchinson has been with C.A.R. since 1985 Livermore, CA 94550, is and manages C.A.R.’s Member Legal Services Program in Los hereby registered by the fol- lowing owner(s): Angeles. (1)Marshall Scott Jones (2)Di- He also advises Realtors on all aspects of real estate law through Anne Clark Jones, 2447 Riv- the association’s Legal Hotline, and trains and supervises other Ho- ers Bend Circle, Livermore, CA 94550 tline attorneys. This business is conducted by Hutchinson earned bachelor’s degree from Princeton University Husband and wife and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. He has The registrant began to trans- act business under the ficti- written for California Real Estate magazine, co-authored C.A.R’s con- tious business name(s) listed tinuing education courses and is a master instructor for the Education above on 01/01/1999. Division of C.A.R. with certification from the Department of Real Signature of Registrants:s/: DiAnne C. Jones, Partner Estate. He is also a member of the Real Property Law Sections of the This statement was filed with American, California and Los Angeles County Bar Associations. the County Clerk of Alameda For more information about R.E.A.L., see the website at www. on January 5, 2012. Expires realestateallianceoflivermore.com January 5, 2017. The Independent Legal No. Cher Wollard is a Realtor with 3162. Published January 19, Prudential California Realty, Livermore. 26, February 2, 9, 2012. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 459676 The following person(s) doing PAGE 12 - The Independent, JANUARY 26, 2012 Meetings Will Hear Views on Proposed Rural Solar Policy

Alameda County planning one solar installation on farm declared last year that the rural the county's total of 3956 acres tee. He told fellow members at with the community, and receive staff will conduct public meet- land there. Two others are pend- area is a good place to place solar of prime agricultural land, has their meeting May 24, 2011, that input on subject areas that were ings to receive input on the ing. collectors. They also recognize drawn opposition from environ- a farmer who uses part of a parcel covered by a policy paper written proposed county solar energy One of the pending applica- the importance of urban solar mentalists and agriculturalists. for solar might not have enough earlier." ordinance. tions from Pegasus would cover installations, but want a separate Dick Schneider, who was a land left to use his or her farm The supervisors' transporta- The first meeting will be held 2000 acres. Adjacent to that report on that later, after dealing leader of the county's Measure equipment fully, and then would tion and planning committee at 6:30 pm. on Jan. 31 at the would be the Cool Earth project with the rural applications. D in 2000, said that the solar have to move away, he said. agreed at a meeting last Novem- County Public Works Building, on 140 acres. It is located next to Haggerty and Miley tied the collectors are an industrial use. Also at the agricultural com- ber that the staff should continue 4825 Gleason Drive, Dublin. a site where the electricity can be importance of obtaining so- They would not be permitted in mittee meeting was Rich Cimino, through the process to amend A second meeting is scheduled uploaded to the power grid. lar power soon with the state's an agricultural zoning district, as conservation director of the the general plan to incorporate for 6:30 pm. Feb. 28 at the same Supervisors want a policy in mandates to reduce carbon emis- spelled out in Measure D. Ohlone Audubon Society. He the policy, said Liz McElligott, location. place before making any more sions. Nearby land could be affected said that locating solar near county assistant planning direc- The meetings will be in East approvals. The two supervisors The fact that the rural ap- too, said Larry Gosselin, a vet- Altamont wind turbines could tor. County because the county al- who represent East County, plications, notably the one from erinarian who is on the County drive rodent colonies toward the An "extensive public process" ready has granted a permit for Scott Haggerty and Nate Miley, Pegasus, would cover more than Agricultural Advisory Commit- turbines. Raptors preying on the is required to amend the general rodents would be killed in the plan, explained McElligott. It turbine blades. includes planning meetings, The meetings in January and followed by hearings before the February are being held to hold planning commission, and then SERVICES a "more in-depth discussion the full board of supervisors. (continued from page one) since the last census. Services are of children and youth. Prasher. Last year, they accom- developing a strategic plan based not keeping pace with the grow- Prasher said all of the areas modated 110,000 visits, That on the findings from the as- ing demand. Specific groups, are connected in that they affect meets only fifty percent of the de- sessment. Focus should be on such as the disabled, low income one another. When it comes to mand. Speciality care for people outreach and increased collabo- seniors, and the working poor, behavioral health it is difficult with such issues as diabetes is ration to improve outcomes for fall through the cracks. One of to access services, which are in not available. Many specialists individuals and communities. the problems in obtaining ser- Oakland and Hayward. In addi- do not accept Medi-Cal or Medi- The report also suggests there is vices is that the Tri-Valley is per- tion, there is a significant social Care. Patients have to travel to a need to embrace the growing ceived as a wealthy region with stigma in asking for help, par- Oakland. If they cannot make the diversity in the region. little need for social services, ticularly among teens and youth journey, they simply go without Livermore Councilmember continued Prasher. adults with drug or behavioral is- treatment. Stewart Gary suggested that hu- Fourteen areas of concern sues. There are no drug treatment The report concludes that man services energies focus on were identified. The top three services here. They are available providers need more resources specific programs, rather than were behavioral health, afford- in San Leandro and Oakland. to offer services. Public trans- fund a lot of line items that so able housing, and health care Affordable housing continues portation limitation presents a scatter efforts that the results are followed by workforce develop- to be an issue. Thirty percent of significant barrier to accessing ineffective. He pointed out that ment, homelessnesss, transporta- the population pays more than services. Increased homelessness the school district is the larg- tion, domestic violence, disabili- 35 percent of their gross income and housing insecurity is increas- est day-to-day human services ties, food and nutrition, senior on housing. Thirty-two percent ing. Single men and veterans provider, they see and work with services, youth services, child of residents spend 50 percent have seen the largest increase in people every day. "These issues care, changing demographics, of their gross income. There are homelessness. are not city centric, county centric and financial assistance. now more renters, creating a high Prasher said with the increase or school centric. It's 'we' jointly The Pleasanton staff report demand that allows landlords in poverty and growing demand, applying for grants to deal with states that an increase in ethnic to increase rents. With so much one way to help decrease costs problems to leverage the budget diversity and linguistic isolation devoted to paying for a place to is to provide help early. Over the to gain the greatest impact." creates a barrier to accessing live, when their is a crisis such as next 6 to 8 months, Livermore Councilmember Bob Woener services. Organizations are strug- medical bills or job loss, families and Pleasanton are planning called the assessment, "a thought gling to adjust. In addition, there could be pushed into homeless- joint meetings to come up with provoking report." is insufficient extended care, after ness, noted Prasher. proposals on how best to allocate school and summer programming Locally, Axis provides excel- the money that is available. to support the social development lent basic services, commented Pleasanton staff recommends

CALTRANS (continued from page one) cars to speed. tions at the site. Trans will be conducting a new CalTrans claims that the Community meetings were biological assessment that studies changes at the bridge won't held in Fremont, with as many how the water impacts fish and increase speed. "However, the as 200 in attendance. CalTrans stream-side habitat along Alam- physical design makes it so ve- explained its position and statis- eda Creek. The agency will also hicles can travel faster. We have a tics concerning traffic accidents. review the traffic statistics. problem with that,"said Miler. Residents countered with their Miller said that CalTrans will CalTrans' motive in construct- research on traffic accidents propose a new phase 1 project in ing the $80 million project has along the road, claiming that the fall of 2012. In the spring of been to make the road safer by safety improved after rumble 2013, CalTrans will issue a notice widening lanes to 12 feet, ex- strips were installed in 2007. of preparation for a new phase 1 panding shoulders to 8 feet, and Fremont is in the process of project, and issue an EIR in 2014. installing a 2-foot median. asking CalTrans to ban truck He said there were no dates yet Some 99 trees were cut dur- traffic over 5 tons on the road. Its for phase 2. ing the first phase, which took justification mentions the rumble Townsend said the staff will Sunol and Fremont residents by strips' apparent effect on safety, meet and talk to biological con- surprise, and led to an immediate with a drop of nearly 50 percent sultants before setting any public on-site protest along the roadway, in collisions. meeting dates. followed by weekly demonstra- Townsend confirmed that Cal-

TRUSTEE (continued from page one) herself as an advocate of children by serving on School Site Coun- cil Committees, Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Boards and as a Parent Center Coordinator. Working as a community liaison, Martinez played an important role in the seamless merger of Portola Elementary and Junction Middle School to the combined Junction K-8 School. Her outreach and successful public relations efforts garnered community support for the Dual Immersion Program, Futsal fields, and Mariachi club at Junction K-8. Martinez has also been an Belia Martinez active member of her children’s education as a volunteer in the my new position as the newest classroom, clubs, and community LVJUSD Board Member. I am sports. In addition, she has helped ready to put my heartfelt efforts coordinate the Summer Youth toward making a positive differ- Employment Project, through ence in our school community. the Tri-Valley Community Foun- I look forward to visiting all of dation, mentoring students to our schools and developing solid emphasize real-world work ex- and supportive relationships with pectations, increase awareness staff members and families. I am of services offered by local com- thrilled about the upcoming year munity-based organizations, and and the great results that will provide opportunities for career arise from it.” instruction, financial literacy The applicants were Kathy training, academic improvement, Alexander, Jim Bennett, Susan and social growth. Houghton, David Jonas, Belia Martinez said of her ap- Martinez, Barbara Morgan, and pointment, “I am excited about Vicki Schellenberger. THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION II THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 Art, Community, & Education Classical Music Performances on Calendar Cypress String Quartet Plays at the Firehouse by Dominique Piana munity. A taste for good music The Cypress String Quartet can be developed by ongoing and returns for its yearly visit to the repeated exposure: anyone can be Firehouse Arts Center in Pleas- slowly won over if something that anton. The performance will be proved daunting reveals itself to be at 3 p.m. on February 12. The familiar, beautiful and moving. Firehouse stage provides a setting String quartet playing started ideal for the performance. out as “friends making music Formed in 1996 in San Fran- together” in good cheer, like a cisco, the Cypress String Quartet four-way animated conversation is comprised of Cecily Ward, Tom around the table. The earliest Stone, Ethan Filner and Jennifer string quartets in Austria called Kloetzel. It has become one of divertimenti. Some will say that the the most eminent ensembles of quartet was a reduced orchestra, their generation, earning kudos allowing people to play at home worldwide for its “artistry of works originally meant for big- uncommon insight and cohesion” ger ensembles. So there is a clear (Gramophone), and its “beauti- connection to the private life, as fully proportioned and powerful opposed to the public sphere. sound” (The Washington Post). There is a definite difference The idea of their returning here between the anchor repertoire every year is for the audience to composed around Vienna in the grow with them as they evolve as classical era, from 1770 on, whose Cypress String Quartet a musical entity, and to witness the sound is focused more inwardly, group's traversals of repertoires, and later string quartets, composed both classic and novel. for performance in more resonant Published in 1799 and dedicated expressive powers. No. 4 in Bb language that switches back and It has been said that new wine public halls. to Prince Erdödy, Haydn’s op. 76 Major was nicknamed “Sunrise” forth between highly wrought deserves new bottles. In the same On their second visit in Pleas- Quartets, his last complete set of in England because of its stun- sophistication and more bucolic way, a new art center like the Fire- anton, the Cypress String Quartet six, represent the culmination of ning opening violin line. Infinitely moments, to luminous effect. house needs new ways of bringing will perform two great works from a lifetime of musical striving by a varied yet unified, it stands on its Shortly thereafter, Pleyel in- its artistic message into the com- the core “Viennese” repertoire. composer at the very peak of his own with a surprisingly flexible (continued on page 2) Livermore Amador Symphony Performs at the Bankhead The Livermore Amador Sym- phony will present a concert on Feb. 11 at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore. The program of varied music includes Vlatava (the Moldau) by Smetana, Wind Serenade by Dvorak, Danse Macabre by Saint- Saens, Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Opus 18 (1st movement) by Rach- maninoff, Premiere Rhapsodie by Debussy, and Orkney Wedding, with Sunrise by Davies. Directing will be Dr. Arthur Barnes. Featured will be the winners of the sym- phony's Competition for Young Musicians: pianist, Christine Xu, and clarinetist, Clifford Tam. The symphony will lead off with Vlatava (the Moldau) by Christine Xu (continued on page 3) Clifford Tam 2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 Art & Entertainment Fund-raising Event Will Send Honors Choir to World Choir Games After many performances during the December holiday season, Cantabella Children’s Chorus is preparing for an exciting spring and summer. Rehearsals began last week in Livermore, Pleas- anton and Dublin as more than 200 choristers from kindergarten through twelfth grade prepare new repertoire. This is Cantabella’s twentieth season. A once-in-a-lifetime summer is being planned for Cantabella’s Honors Choir. This July, the choristers will travel to Cincinnati, OH, where they were invited to perform and compete at the internationally acclaimed World Choir Games (WCG). Also known as the “Choir Olympics,” the WCG began in Linz, Aus- tria in 2000. It is held every two years, and has previously been hosted in Austria, Korea, Germany and China. This is the first year the event has been hosted by the United States. Cantabella Honors Choir members, consisting of auditioned choristers in grades 6-12, have trained and practiced for hundreds of hours to represent the Tri-Valley community at this event. During the WCG, over 20,000 choristers representing more than 70 nations will gather together to sing and share their love of music before nearly 90,000 spectators. Cantabella is hosting a “cruise-themed” fund-raiser to help send the singers to the World Choir Games in Cincinnati. An evening of good food, entertainment by talented young singers, dancing and auctions will be held at 6:30 P.M., Friday, February 10, 2012, at the Veterans’ Memorial Hall, 522 South L Street, Livermore. The public is invited to attend. At the World Choir Games, singing together will bring nations together. Tickets may be purchased online at Cantabella.org. For more information, call 925-292-2663. Cantabella Children’s Chorus performs a holiday concert at Asbury United Methodist Church, December 2011.

CYPRESS (continued from front page) vented the miniature score. In discourse, as the aggressive ac- pointedly. He integrates the kalei- music sound utterly fresh.” The The Firehouse Arts Center is this form Haydn’s quartets were centuation and dynamic contrasts doscopic influences of his time, recording was also featured in the located at 4444 Railroad Avenue, disseminated to be affordable, al- of the beginning Allegro con brio is veering toward the rhythms of Denver Post’s “Classical music: downtown Pleasanton. lowing the art of the string quartet followed by dense counterpoint in Spain here, or conjuring the sound The year's best discs of 2009." The Tickets are adult-$20, $25 and to gain a foothold in the popular the slow Allegretto ma non troppo of the exotic gamelan orchestra recording is the first of a three vol- $30; child: $12 and senior: $25. culture of the early 19th century movement. Only at the very end there, waxing rhapsodic, turning ume set. Volume Two was released They may be purchased online at and influence the output of all the is Beethoven’s torment assuaged, to modality, or impressionistic har- in August 2010, and also received www.firehousearts.org up to three composers who followed in the and the human spirit triumphs over monies. It’s all there, wonderfully praise from The Cleveland Plain hours prior to the performance, history of music. adversity. crystallized into Ravelian finery Dealer, “In the forest of Beethoven by phone at (925) 931-4848, or in Beethoven’s unique op. 95, Dedicated to his teacher Gabriel and ending with blazing colors. recordings, the Cypress’s are some person at the Firehouse Arts Center to which he himself referred as Fauré, Ravel’s sole Quartet (from In August 2009, the Cypress re- of the mightiest trees.” Volume Box Office. serioso, was published in 1816, 1903) mirrors the effervescent leased a recording of Beethoven’s Three will be released in March, More information about Fire- among the last of his middle- world of turn-of -the-century Paris. Late Quartets Op. 131 and 135 to 2012 and will include the ground- house Arts Center is available at period quartets. It includes the Formally, even the young Ravel is critical acclaim. The Cleveland breaking Opus 132. www.firehousearts.org. shortest first movement of all. Its already a classicist at heart, yet his Plain Dealer reported, “the Cypress provocative intensity results from mature craftsmanship and mastery players converse with such rare the compression of the musical of orchestration shine through sincerity as to make long-familiar Annual Seniors Helping Seniors Valentine's Day Event Set Celebrating “Love Through the Years” is the theme of this year’s St. Patrick's Day Brew Crawl Planned in Pleasanton Seniors Helping Seniors event. The annual dinner dance is a joint effort of the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District’s Senior Services The Pleasanton Downtown Laura Olson, the PDA’s execu- will be several changes. For in- and Livermore High School’s senior class of 2012. Association (PDA) will host a St. tive director, said, “The first Brew stance, the PDA will be adding a Students organize Seniors Helping Seniors as a way to raise funds Patrick's Day-themed Brew Crawl Crawl was so well-received by costume contest and photo both to for events and projects during their senior year of school. The event also on Friday, March 16 from 6-9 p.m. the community that we knew we the festivities. Also, more tasting serves as a fund-raiser for LARPD Senior Services activities. The decision to hold the event is had to host another one sooner locations will be open. More tick- Seniors can enjoy an evening of dining, dancing and socializing with in response to the success of last rather than later. It’s the perfect ets will be sold to the public. students in the LHS class of 2012. Students also provide musical enter- October’s Brew Crawl, the first of combination of craft beer, tasty The St. Patrick’s Day Brew tainment for the event, plus hold a drawing for those in attendance. its kind in Downtown Pleasanton. food and shopping. Guests have Crawl will replace the Tidbits, Seniors Helping Seniors will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. Similarly to the Halloween a great time at the event and learn Truffles and Wine Tasting event 9, in the Cresta Blanca Ballroom at the Robert Livermore Community Brew Crawl, which sold out days about downtown businesses they which usually takes place in Feb- Center, 4444 East Ave. Tickets are $15 and are on sale now through Feb. before the event, the St. Patrick’s may have never visited before. It’s ruary. 3. On the dinner menu is grilled chicken with teriyaki glaze, steamed Day Brew Crawl will feature cos- a win-win.” Information is available at white rice, mixed vegetables, salad, dinner roll, dessert and beverage. tumed guests sampling local craft While many aspects of the St. (925) 484-2199, www.pleasanton- Tickets are available at the Senior Services office at the Community beer and appetizer tastings in a Patrick’s Day Brew Crawl will be downtown.net. Center. Sponsorships from businesses and organizations are also avail- variety of downtown businesses. the same as the fall event, there able for the event. For more information, call 925-373-5760. Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 3 SYMPHONY (continued from front page)

Czech composer Bedrich Smetana. ding with Sunrise. Dancing and This symphonic poem is taken drinking all come together in riot- from a series of six pieces, each ous disorder. The wedding party of which depicts some aspect of disperses. The brass heralds the the countryside, culture or legends coming of dawn. A piper enters of Bohemia. The composer uses the hall to announce sunrise over tone painting to evoke the sounds Caithness. The bagpipe will be of the river, the Moldau. It follows played by Nick Theriault. the course of the river as it rises The Sat., Feb. 11 concert begins from two small springs to unite at 8 p.m. The Bankhead Theater in one current that flows through is located at 2400 First St., Liver- obtained at www.bankheadtheater. varying landscapes, swirling and more. Tickets information can be org or 373-6800. falling down rapids. Gradually it flows toward Prague and vanishes majestically into the distance. The Czechoslovakian theme is echoed in Dvorak's Serenade for Winds. The piece highlights the wind section of the orchestra with the addition of 'cello and bass. It is said to portray the "Old World" atmosphere where music endless variety, was performed for intimate groups of friends. However, the Wind exciting entertainment Serenade, Dvorak interweaves aristocratic grace and calm with the earthiness of Czech dance rhythms. An invitation to the dance takes Annie on a new identity in Danse Maca- Jan 27-Feb 5 bre by Saint-Saens. The celebra- Fri/Sat/Sun at 8/8/2pm tion of life with its physical beauty Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre and joy gives way to reminders of human fragility and the inevitabil- Natalya Ribovich is Alice and Dalton Bourne is the White Rabbit in a ity of death. The piece opens on a free preview of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at the Pleasanton single note played twelve times, Public Library on Saturday, February 11 at 2:00 p.m. the strokes of midnight, as Death Celtic Nights calls up the skeletons from their Feb 8 at 7:30pm graves to dance until the rooster Dazzling and Fiery Celtic Dance crows at dawn. The solo violin en- and Musicianship ters with an eerie voice, the Devil's Preview 'Alice' at the Chord, that is gradually taken up throughout the orchestra. The THE music gathers energy and strength, ed Zeppelin Pleasanton Library but eventually modulates and dies. The oboe heralds the dawn. The L Concert Experience Feb 10 at 8pm The Pleasanton Public Library segment with the audience and skeletons return to their graves. will host a preview performance of introduce some of the mask and The two young music competi- Starring ‘Heartbreaker’ Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland puppetry techniques used in the tion winners will perform works on Sat., Feb. 11 as performed by show. As a special treat, audience by Rachmaninoff and Debussy for the Pleasanton Civic Arts Stage members will also have the oppor- their solos. omething for Company, in collaboration with Christine Xu is a student at tunity to create their own theatrical Amador Valley High School in the San Francisco Shakespeare masks. This free program is best S Everyone Pleasanton. She began her piano Feb 11 at 8pm Festival. for children ages 5 and older. No studies at the age of four. She says This special event offers pa- registration is required. that she enjoys the immensity and Livermore-Amador Symphony trons a complimentary glimpse The full stage production of emotion of the Rachmaninoff, of the upcoming production of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Opus Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland will be performed February 29 18, first movement. scheduled later in the month at the through March 1 at the Firehouse Livermore High School se- ribute to Glenn Miller Firehouse Arts Center in down- Arts Center. nior Clifford Tam will perform T and Tex Beneke town Pleasanton. For more information or to pur- Debussy's Premiere Rhapsodie. Feb 12 at 2pm Based on the legendary tale chase tickets to the performance at He brings a wide variety of musi- Featuring the Tex Beneke Orchestra by Lewis Carroll, the 2:00 p.m. the Firehouse Arts Center, please cal experience in both genre and program will feature scenes from visit www.firehousearts.org or call instrument to the performance. the play performed by youth cast the box office at (925) 931-4848. He likes tinkering with new musi- ! members from the Pleasanton For information on other li- cal projects, including an electric REE clarinet. F BUY TICKETS 925.373.6800 community. brary activities and events, see ARKING Afterwards, the cast will join the library website at www.cityof- In the final work on the pro- P www.bankheadtheater.org gram, Maxwell Davies transports Director Rebecca J. Ennals and pleasantonca.gov/services/library, 2400 FIRST STREET | Downtown Livermore Assistant Director Michael Tru- or call the Children's Desk at (925) listeners to a Celtic wedding with man Cavanaugh for a Q and A 931-3400, extension 8. a wild night party, Orkney Wed- 4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 Community Program to Focus on the Italian Heart of a California Cook Cooking instructor and food ing professional experience, she her son, realized by MissionLo- expert Viola Buitoni will present started an Italian catering business cal.org, a UC Berkeley’s School her program The Italian Heart of a in New York with a friend from of Journalism blog based in San California Cook at 7 p.m. on Tues- Milano. The home-based effort Francisco’s Mission District where day, February 7, 2012 at the Liver- was wildly successful and soon Viola lives. Throughout her more more Public Library Civic Center, morphed into Buitoni & Garretti than 25 years in the United States, 1188 S. Livermore Avenue. located in the heart of the upscale Viola has never stopped traveling There is no charge for this Madison Avenue shopping dis- back to her beloved country of event. trict. In 2001, the shop was sold Italy, where her family of origin Viola Buitoni, a descendant and, after a couple of years as a still resides. of the well known pasta dynasty freelance caterer, Viola moved to This program is part of Liver- and an Italian food educator in San Francisco to start a family. In more Reads Together, a commu- San Francisco, will talk about her 2004 her son Ernesto was born nity-wide reading program featur- family history, how her heritage and for a few years work was a ing John Hersey’s book A Bell for shaped her love for cooking, and part-time affair. Adano, which takes place in Italy how to best marry the bounty Today Viola is reconnecting during World War II. Copies of of California to a classic Italian to the world of Italian food with books and event schedules are pantry to create delicious, healthy a series of educational initiatives, available at all Livermore Pub- Bell Ringers seasonal food. including lectures and cooking lic Library locations. Livermore Viola Buitoni hails from Peru- Viola Buitoni classes in collaboration with the Reads Together is sponsored by to Perform gia, in the heart of Umbria. Viola San Francisco Italian Cultural The Friends of the Livermore came to the United States in 1985 inevitably drawn back into the ge- Institute and Italian Consulate, as Library. For additional events The Alleluia Ringers of to pursue a business degree, but netic passion of all things food. well as an ongoing series of food check the library’s website at Our Savior Lutheran Minis- The soon after graduation found herself After a few years spent garner- articles and cooking videos with www.livermorelibrary.net. tries will be performing Joy of Handbells – A Fam-

ily Program at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 4, 2012 at Big Band Sounds Planned for USO Style Dance the Livermore Public Library Civic Center, 1188 S. Liver- The Livermore Public Library mountain are award-winning swing more Avenue. will present USO Dance: Music dance instructors, choreographers, There is no charge for this of the 1940s on Friday, February 3 and performers specializing in the event. from 7-9 p.m. as part of Livermore dance patterns of the Lindy Hop, The Alleluia Ringers will Reads Together 2012. Please note Balboa, and Charleston. Jean and play a number of handbell that this special program will be Bromley first teamed up in August pieces, explain how handbells held at The Barn, 3131 Pacific of 2004. Jean taught performance are made and played, and share Avenue in Livermore. swing dancing to UC Berkeley a little of their history. This There is no charge for this students as part of The [M]ovement program is aimed for children event. and is also well-versed in hip hop, ages 4 and older and their Don Neeley and The Royal So- having danced in the professional families. ciety Jazz Orchestra will authenti- hip hop troupe Culture Shock. The Alleluia Ringers con- cally recapture the excitement and Bromley’s expertise lies in his fascination of the USO Dance era. sist of fifth through eighth gymnastics foundation. He trained graders from Our Savior Lu- Enjoy the music of the 1940s and under Olympic Gold medalist Tim join us on the dance floor as award- Daggett and was able to pave his theran School and Our Savior winning swing dance instructors way through college as a competi- Lutheran Church, who have Jean Ma & Bromley Palamountain tive gymnast for UC Berkeley’s from one to four years of turn us all into ‘smooth rug cutters’ men’s gymnastics team. Together ringing experience. They meet (good dancers)! they are known for their explosive weekly for an after-school Drawing inspiration from the aerials, high energy, and passion rehearsal and typically play great bands, performers and com- for the dance. for several worship services posers of the “Jazz Age” and This program is part of Liver- throughout the year. In addi- “Swing Era,” Don Neely and the music they perform. By going back more Reads Together, a commu- tion, they perform for two con- Royal Society Jazz Orchestra and carefully studying the original nity-wide reading program featur- certs at Our Savior each year. affectionately and authentically musical ideas of the period, they ing John Hersey’s book A Bell for Ringing is a great way to learn recapture the excitement and fas- have been able to achieve their Adano, which takes place in Italy some music basics, to develop cination of that musical heyday. remarkably authentic sound. The during World War II. Livermore teamwork and to make beauti- One of the many things that set this band’s entertaining and talented providing many delightful sur- Reads Together is sponsored by ful music together! eleven-member ensemble apart is soloists are creatively spotlighted prises. The Friends of the Livermore This program is part of their genuine understanding of the in their exciting and varied show, Jean Ma and Bromley Pala- Library. Livermore Reads Together, a community-wide reading pro- gram featuring John Hersey’s book A Bell for Adano, which 2133A Las Positas Ct, Livermore takes place in Italy during (located off of N. Livermore Ave.) World War II. Copies of books and event Furniture, Jewelry schedules are available at all Livermore Public Library & Household Items locations. Livermore Reads Together is sponsored by The Monday thru Friday 9am-4pm Friends of the Livermore Li- Nifty Gifts & More 925.454.3449 brary. For additional events A Thrift Store ~ Now Open! www.futures-explored.org check the library’s website at www.livermorelibrary.net.

Community & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 5

In 1902 Harry Winegar, part- kins when the real grind and fight ner in the Livermore Commercial for the pennant begins.” Manager Company, purchased four acres Sharpe and his Oaks won the along the north side of Fourth Pacific Coast League pennant in Street, extending from Holmes 1912. Livermore rejoiced with to R Street. On the western edge them. he laid out a baseball diamond Because of a continuing and planted shade trees. Six years problem with malaria, Sharp later, he commissioned a two-sto- Livermore and the Pacific Coast retired, and his replacement for ry concrete house for his family 1913 was Carl Mitze. The new that still remains at 1342 Fourth League Baseball Team manager asked for some changes Street. In the same year he had an to the ballgrounds. Winegar built enclosed swimming tank (some- renamed themselves the Tigers. to check out the accommoda- managed in 1912 by Mirkovich a 14 x 26 enclosed room for the times called a “plunge”), 30 x 70 In March 1912 and 1913 the tions. He especially liked the and consisted of Chas. Hust, trainer’s use and put benches all feet, built to the west side of the city of Livermore hosted spring Livermore soil, which dried catcher; Frank Yates, pitcher; around the room for the players. house. The tank was surrounded training headquarters for the out rapidly after rain showers. Ervin Waggoner, first base; A high window the full length of by dressing rooms except for the Oaks, the Oakland baseball team “Conditions in Livermore are Willard Barber and Ed Schutte, the room on the side toward the west end, where there was an in the Coast League. For rainy ideal for a spring training camp,” second base; M. McDonough, swimming tank gave light and office and seats for spectators. days the Oaks were offered the Sharpe said, “The people of the shortstop; Thos. Ebarrando, third ventilation. The shower baths The 10,000-gallon pool was in first floor of the Sweeney Opera town have extended themselves base; Jos. Callaghan, left field; were enclosed. These changes use from 1908 until about 1924. House, which included a basket- to provide every necessity. The Arthur Holm, center field; Frank were to ensure that the players When the Chamber of Commerce ball court, handball court, and boys will work out every day Hubbel, right field. would be warm, even in a spring decided to persuade the Oakland gymnasium apparatus. The opera with the Livermore nine and will In 1912 two excursion trains cold spell. Mitze also changed Oaks to have their spring training house was at the corner of First take to the armory [opera house] came from Oakland to watch the the schedule to six weeks of in Livermore, Winegar’s fine ball and McLeod Streets. In order in wet weather. Give us good Oaks play the Livermore nine. training. park and the swimming accom- to accommodate the 36-mem- weather and we will be ready for The first train, a Southern Pacific, All members of the team were modations probably weighed ber team, the players stayed in the tap of the gong. The boys will brought 250 fans; the second, married, and their wives accom- heavily in Livermore’s favor. two two-story frame Livermore have to do some lively work to a Western Pacific, 350. Sharpe panied them to Livermore. In At first the minor baseball hotels— Malley’s Hotel on the get back their wind and take the loaned three of his players to 1913, most of the team and their league in California was called southeast corner of First and L springs out of their joints.” The the Livermore team each time wives stayed at the Valley Hotel, the California League, but in Streets, where the Donut Wheel Herald noted, “Manager Sharp to keep the competition even. but everyone had meals at Mal- 1903 the Seattle Indians and is now, and the Valley Hotel is well pleased with the diamond Admission to the games was 25 ly’s. Livermore catcher Charles the Portland Beavers joined the across the street on the south- and … especially with the cents for adults and ten cents for Hust was signed by the Oaks for California teams. The result- west corner. The Sporting Life showers and the plunge,” which children. Sports writer Bert Low- the season. The spring training of ing new league was named the newspaper commented, “It will are generally not found in most ry of the Oakland Tribune said of 1913 went well, but the Oaks did Pacific Coast [Minor] League. probably be necessary to divide country towns. the first exhibition game in Liver- not win the season. In 1914 and The California teams were the the players between two hotels, The team arrived in early more: “There was enough pepper 1915 they held spring training San Francisco Seals, the Oak- which, however, are so close March, and during the four and vinegar at the workout to in Pleasanton. Harry Winegar land Oaks, and the Los Ange- together as to make it virtually weeks of training played games give him [Sharpe] a line on how changed the baseball diamond les Angels. Another team, the one home for the men.” with the Livermore nine in Liver- the boys will behave.” After the into a chicken farm. Sacramento Senators, moved to The Oaks’ manager and first more and then rode the train into second game, he noted, “Sharpe’s (Readers can reach me at Tacoma, Washington in 1903 and baseman, Bud Sharpe, visited Oakland to play exhibition games men went in to show the fans that [email protected].) later moved down to Venice; they Livermore in early February there. The Livermore team was they are going to be some pump- Review: Everyone Loves “Laura”

By Susan Steinberg spot-on as a Southern gentleman public appetite for hard-boiled RP’s recent productions. Wow! A murder mystery so of polite charm and no morals, detective novels by the likes of The plot’s twists and turns deviously convoluted that even and Loralee Windsor is Bessie, the Dashiell Hammett and Raymond are enough to keep audiences on fanatical CSI-watchers were quintessentially earthy Irish cook. Chandler. Directing many of these the edge of their seats, and elicit baffled. At intermission, some Janice Fuller Leone, wonderful as movies were immigrant European small gasps as each new clue is audience members were actually usual in a character role, inhab- film-makers fleeing the Nazis, and revealed. Red herrings and obvi- considering a “WHODUNNIT” ited the skin of Mrs. Dorgan, the bringing their traditions of Expres- ously clumsy alibis abound, along betting pool. And we were all garrulous janitress with a hidden sionism to American theaters. The with many motives for murder. As dead-wrong. grudge. stark lighting, shadow effects, and one intent listener commented, “a This fascinating play is “Lau- Giving another splendid per- weird camera angles used in these play like this really keeps your wits ra," subject of the famous 1944 formance is Ben Oldham, as Mrs. films are difficult to replicate on a sharp.” It also provides a thrilling Otto Preminger film, and many Dorgan’s son, hopelessly smitten stage, but Director Eric Fraisher evening’s entertainment, with stage revivals, including a 2000 by Laura. A junior at Oakland’s is a cherished acolyte at the altar of Hayes has deftly masterminded crackling dialogue and a pitch- Hollywood version starring Linda High School of the Arts, he has his limitless egotistical vanity. an impressively atmospheric and perfect ensemble. Hamilton. In Danville Role Play- already been nominated for a His language is over-ripe, his menacing show. Catch this popular performance ers’ current presentation, the “Shellie” award in recognition vocabulary precious, his classi- His talented production team weekends through Feb. 4 at show is as gripping and thrilling of his acting in RP’s recent “The cal quotations precise, his gram- includes designers Diane McRice Danville’s Village Theatre, 233 as any this reviewer has seen in a Foreigner”. matical corrections finicky, and (Sets), Chris Guptill (Lighting), Front Street, Danville, just a few long time. Personally, I fell for Tom Reilly his tastes ostentatiously refined. Lisa Danz (Costumes), Rob Evans blocks from Highway 680. (take A uniformly top-drawer cast as Waldo Lydecker, the preten- In short, he’s an irresistible char- (Sound), and Stephanie Stratman the Diablo Road exit). invests each role with amazing au- tious writer of flowery prose, like acter, or better yet, a caricature of (Props). In a period mood piece For tickets, call Danville City thenticity, from Eden Neuendorf’s an aged Oscar Wilde (and some the perfect “effete snob." And the like “Laura”, every element is a Hall at (925) 314-3400 (weekdays irresistibly charismatic femme NYC theater critics of memory). audience, along with this reviewer, vital part of a credible whole, and only) or go to www.villagetheatre- fatale to Khary Moye’s cagey Laura’s mentor from young ingé- was charmed. these creative artists contribute shows.com gumshoe, a veteran skeptic with nue to glamorous woman, he is as Bringing “film noir” to a stage hugely to its success. So does Showtimes are 8 p.m. Fridays a weakness for beautiful women. proud of her as a parent (or platonic production is no easy assign- vocal coach Robin Taylor, whose and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays Craig Eychner as the deceased lover). She is like one of the rare ment The genre was a product of professional training has perfected (no performance on Feb. 5). lady’s philandering fiance´ is antique vases he collects, but also low-budget studios and a strong memorable dialects in so many of

6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 Art & Entertainment Gee Whiskers, Here’s “Annie”: Tri-Valley Rep’s Musical Is Positively at the Bankhead by Harry Stoll (an opening night fill-in for an ill In this tale, Tri-Valley Rep Ac- Tim Anton Ackerman) plays Har- tors Julia Etzel (Miss Hannigan, old Ickes, FDR’s secretary of the the girl’s orphanage overseer) and Interior; Martha McDowell plays Jess Martinez (Daddy Warbucks) Frances Perkins, his secretary of ignore the supposed advice of W.C. Labor. She was the first woman to Fields to “Never play opposite be appointed to a cabinet position. a kid or a dog,” with sparkling They do a nice job in a meeting, performances while appearing meeting Warbuck’s demand to with both. do something and discuss new Tri-Valley Rep’s production of endeavors, finally labeled a “New “Annie” is heartening. The warmth Deal” by FDR. They are scintil- of the performers, the lighting, the lating in a reprise of “Tomorrow” singing, dancing, voices, the set, along with Annie and their boss. the costumes, the orchestra, the Erik Scanlon as Rooster and musical numbers, and the script, Sarah Schori as Lily St. Regis held back the frigid air outside the are delightful crooks out for the Bankhead Theater in Livermore. It $50,000 reward offered by War- played to a full house on opening bucks to Annie’s parents. He acts night with cones of roses dotting like an odometer-resetting used car the audience. salesman and she shimmers and “Annie” is related to the Little shakes it, and is generally juicy, Orphan Annie strip in the Depres- but you know her Lily will try to sion era funny pages. The story get your PIN. covers Annie’s attempts to escape The orchestra did its job of the orphanage, her longing to find being in the mood, playing the her parents, and her getting to mostly lively music, which gets Orphans perform a rousing number. (Photo by Doug Jorgensen) know Daddy Warbucks. appropriately somber and hushed Annie and the other kids are on occasion. far beyond all right. But, while a with Daddy Warbucks, she pouts Emily Kessel, Zoe Sophia Lar- times their job depended on it. A nice highlight is the enthusi- dog is always appealing Annie, her extravagantly; and maybe it’s kin, Grace Mesenbring, Isabella They join in with Grace and Annie astic irrepressible Anne, in her red real name, flopped as Sandy, with the makeup, the lighting, or the Palmer-Aherns, and Rachel Probst, with “I Think I’m Gonna Like It dress with white collar, declaring never an “Arf!” Yet, the audience audience’s imagination, but at one and Emma Thvedt. At one point Here.” They are delightful singers near the end, “Leaping lizards.” At was touched by her tail-between- point her eyes seem to evoke the Kessel, the smallest orphan, mim- and dancers. At one point, they curtain call, Annie the dog tipped her-legs non-performance. Annie blank circles of the comic strip’s ics Hannnigan’s walk, to much bounce lightly up and down on her head that way dogs have and is from the animal shelter, which characters’ eyes, which were sati- applause. Tit for tat as Hannigan their toes. Another time do the up made up for her earlier indiffer- is a nice coincidence. rized as “blunk out eyeballs,” by often mimics the girls. and down by bending their knees. ence. Before the run is over she’ll The script dates from the mid- Pogo. Her pouting and prancing Joe Martinez plays Daddy Scott Stewart as Drake, the butler, prove W.C. Fields to be right, Warbucks as the top dog of the is proper and witty. 1970s; it’s set in 1933, but eerily and dancing are, well, cute. And threatening grand larceny with 1%. He is a robust guy with a big The staff, and others who are comments on the current scene, better yet, well executed. She is the show. masterful at restraining Annie the round voice and looks smooth otherwise not credited, who are with unemployed people occu- A call for help: Sometimes dog (who doesn’t want to be there) dancing with 11-year-old Annie. also part of the household staff, pying space under the Brooklyn while stroking her and singing. You believe the red-haired mop- include: Elizabeth Dimits, Tom times seem as tough as 1933, but Bridge. They are in a Hoover- Julia Etzel’s Miss Hannigan pet has touched his ruthless heart. Farris, Sultana Gardizi, Britt Jen- please find it in your heart to do- ville and sing, “Thank you, Mr. lives beyond her mean. Etzel plays Warbucks (that name is a political sky, Brianna Reynolds, and Dylan nate to the Tri-Valley Repertory Hoover.” her as enthusiastically sadistic, of- commentary about World War I Spooner. so it can continue to bring live “Do something,” Daddy War- fering the orphans bowls of gruel munitions makers) knows Babe Hefty John Rinaldi is solid as theater to you. The cast is unpaid, bucks says to President Franklin D. for breakfast. She’s a delight as Ruth, ignores phone calls from Bert, the emcee of “Bert Healy’s often travel long distances, and Roosevelt, who is deftly portrayed a sick despicable bitch with a John D. Rockefeller, calls Presi- Hour of Smiles,” a talent show spend hours and grueling hours of by Kenneth Tieck, in a wheelchair spot-on Bronx accent, extended dent Roosevelt “Frank,” issues (Annie appears of course). It’s rehearsing. Leaping lizards! You (President Roosevelt was never animation, and telling timing and orders to J. Edgar Hoover, has radio, but the beautiful Boylen can do it. Go to www.trivalleyrep. filmed or photographed thus) and intonation. She wears dowdy cold Justice Louis Brandeis come over Sisters, Noelle Boero, Emily org to read all about it. Arf! captures the jaunty angle of FDR’s grey in contrast to the warmth of to officiate at a legal event, and Jones, and Hannah Pryfogle are Producer, Kathleen Breedveld; cigarette holder and his Patrician the other costumes. The costum- probably does insider trading and clad in stunning blue dresses that Director, John J. Maio; Vocal manner. His “We have nothing ing catches how people dressed derivatives. When the President show off the high-style of the era. Directors. Evan Alparone; Musi- to fear but fear itself,” mirrors in 1933. unexpectedly accepts a dinner invi- cal Director, Jo Anne Fosselman; Annie’s positive approach. Both They’re wonderful with Rinaldi The spunky girl orphans are tation he tells his private secretary in “You’re Never Fully Dressed Choreographer, Christina Lazo; seem to hold hopelessly optimis- Costume coordinator Lisa Danz fetching without trying to be, and Grace Farrell (played by Pamela Without a Smile.” The show’s tic visions, but come see what Performances, weekends, rock to the rollicking “Hard Knock Ballin) to “Call Al Smith to find sponsor is Oxydent, a toothpaste happens. Life.” The orphans show a lot of out what Democrats eat.” through February 5. Fridays and Jordyn Foley (Annie) is a feisty manufacturer. The orphans also Saturdays, 8 p.m., Sundays, 2 verve in all of their numbers as a Warbucks has a chauffeured perform the number, tyke, singing about a promising way of countering the evil Miss Duesenberg and a household staff p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First “Tomorrow” in a clear strong that nods and murmurs in agree- Mrs. Pugh, a member of the Street, Livermore; 925.373.6800; Hannigan. They are: Alexandra Orphan Board, is played with hau- voice. (She reprises it with Roos- M. Baldacci, Christine Curulla, ment at his every utterance and www.livermoreperformingarts. evelt and his cabinet.) Interacting Sophia Delucchi, Emily Johnson, movement, as if in these tough teur by Judy Sanders. Matt Ballin org.

Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 7 'Gondoliers' Is a Gala Romp by Susan Steinberg all their friends along to establish is Somebodee then no one’s Any- for my trouble!” Sounds all too humming the infectious melodies. Gilbert and Sullivan’s sunniest a kingdom of Absolute Equality. body!” familiar like the unscrupulous It’s that kind of endearing show, musical, “The Gondoliers," will be The result, of course, is the kind Also aghast at this egalitarian- CEO’s of modern corporations, enjoyable entertainment for all making audiences merry for only of topsy-turvy situation Gilbert so ism are the Duke and Duchess of earning fabulous sums even as ages, and a long time favorite of two weekends – one in San Fran- delighted in creating. Everyone Plaza-Toro, the down-at-the-heels their companies go bankrupt. this reviewer. cisco and one in Walnut Creek. is raised to the highest rank, so Spanish aristocrats whose daughter Still this sleazy couple tries to Valley theatergoers will rec- The Lamplighters Music The- there is no difference between “the Casilda was betrothed as a baby to teach the guileless gondoliers how ognize many popular performers atre. Lord High Bishop Orthodox” and the infant king. Another problem to behave in order to command the from previous local Lamplighter This rollicking good-humored “the Lord High Vagabond in the there, as both men have recently respect and obedience of their sub- productions. Charles Martin, the show, presented by the Lamp- stocks”, or “the Noble Lord who been married, creating another jects, describing “a pose imperious swashbuckling Pirate King from lighters Music Theatre, pokes rules the state” and “the Noble daffy situation, with the illogical with a demeanor nobly bland.” In “Pirates of Penzance” plays the irreverent fun at all the usual Lord who cleans the grate.” solution: “two husbands divisible other words, they should master Grand Inquisitor, with operatic subjects: political maneuvering, True to their democratic ideals into three.” the SHOW of nobility without the tenor Michael Desnoyer, the hap- inept government, and that favor- they establish themselves as real Missing no opportunity to SUBSTANCE, so reminiscent of less hero Frederic from “Pirates," ite target, the social class system, “working monarchs”, performing skewer pretentious personalities, many modern royals. singing the romantic lead. John all as relevant to our own world as tasks of daily drudgery normally Gilbert shows the Plaza-Toros to Meanwhile the frustrated Grand Brown (Nanki-poo in “The Mi- to Victorian England. done by servants. Act II finds them be a truly shameless pair of finan- Inquisitor is having the Prince’s kado”) and Sonia Gariaeff (last Set in sparkling Venice, Act cheerfully describing their “duties cial opportunists. Making money original nursemaid “interviewed” season’s sensational “Little But- I bubbles with happy choruses of the day”: “Rising early in the from lucrative endorsements like in the torture chamber until she tercup”) are the wickedly funny and romantic duets, as two gal- morning we proceed to light the so many modern celebrities, they reveals the king’s identity. It pains Duke and Duchess of Plaza-Toro. lant gondolier brothers wed their fire… Then we polish the Regalia boast of their ability to promote him to lack this information since, A seasoned professional orchestra winsome sweethearts. Suddenly and the Coronation Plate, or we run any product or service, no matter as he observes, “A Grand Inquisi- and chorus add richness and verve a somber figure, the black-clad on little errands for the Ministers how dubious. tor is ALWAYS up to date.” It’s a to the sprightly production, as do Grand Inquisitor, appears to re- of State.” As the Duchess smugly admits, line that always elicits appreciative sumptuous sets and costumes. veal that one of them is actually Of course there are the tradi- “I vow my complexion derives audience laughter. Performance on January 27 the missing heir to the throne of tional jibes at the “work” of a ruler: its perfection from somebody’s As usual, a quirky explanation (8 p.m.), 28 (2 p.m. and 8 p.m.) Barataria. Kidnapped and hidden “If we’ve nothing in particular to soap, which it doesn’t.” (“It CER- eventually settles all the plot’s and 29 (2 p.m.) will be at Walnut as a baby, he is now called upon to do, we may make a Proclamation TAINLY doesn’t!”) problems, leading to a happy end- Creek’s Lesher Center. become king. Unfortunately, after or receive a deputation, then we The Duke, playing for higher ing for all, and a joyous reprise For the San Francisco box of- 21 years, no one can actually tell possibly create a Peer or two.” stakes, boasts that he lends his of the show’s catchiest songs and fice, call 415-978-2787 or go to which twin is royal. The Grand Inquisitor is furious titled name to the directorship dances, including the irresistible www.ybca.org. For the Lesher, Sent to rule their island realm at the complete overturning of the of “companies bubble”. Then, fandango and bolero. call 925-943-7469 or go to www. together, the staunch Republican social order, and points out quite “when they are floated I’m freely Audiences invariably leave lesherartscenter.org. (read: Democratic) brothers bring reasonably that “When Everyone banknoted – I’m pretty well paid the theater smiling happily and 'The Secret Garden' - an Enjoyable Experience By Carol Graham Spence. “It’s been a once in a “Yes,” Elsa readily agreed. fifth-grader Sarah Whalen, tries to cast girls and boys are equal; the A familiar hush of anticipa- lifetime experience.” “But I’m not that loud.” educate Mary with such eloquent disabled become able; the shy tion fell over the audience as the Other young performers agreed With its theme of hope and passages as, “Time is passing like experiment with bravery; the slow lights dimmed in Livermore High that, at the start, the live perfor- new beginnings, MCT’s original a cool summer breeze. You can are rehearsed to perfection; and the School’s theater on Saturday, Janu- mance was a bit nerve-wracking. adaptation of The Secret Garden partake of it, or push against it. It gifted become part of the whole. ary 21. “It was pretty freaky. At the be- chronicles the ill-tempered Mary’s matters little to the breeze.” The lesson they learn is that all of An original adaptation of The ginning, I was like, ‘I cannot do journey from India to her uncle’s Throughout its 40 year exis- them are necessary for the show Secret Garden was performed this,’” said third-grader Atticus home in England, where she learns tence, MCT has reached more to go on. by kindergarten through fifth Cummings who played Dickon, to appreciate and celebrate life than a million students in all 50 As far as lessons learned from grade students from Arroyo Seco one of the lead roles. “At the end, through friendships with an assort- states as well as 17 countries the budding thespians, Edison Elementary School after having it actually started to be fun.” ment of people and animals. worldwide. According to MCT’s advised, “What you really need to completed an intensive audition Atticus’s older brother, fifth- Her Indian Ayah, played by mission statement, within each (continued on page 9) and rehearsal schedule over four grader Edison, was a little more days prior to the two Saturday philosophical. “I thought it performances. wouldn’t be that bad if I missed “The students were over-the-top a word or something,” he said. “I excited,” noted third-grade teacher made sure that if something wrong Patty Baker. “They’d said, ‘I can’t happened, I could fix it.” wait till this weekend. We’re going Following auditions held the to be in the big show in the luxury previous Tuesday, the 29 student theater!’ They were super excited performers practiced from 3 p.m. about being in a real theater, in a till 7:30 p.m. Elsa Friedman, real show with real costumes, and a fourth-grader whose chatty a real piano player.” character Martha spewed streams The musical, sponsored by of complicated lines, said, “The Arroyo Seco’s Parent-Teacher garden (characters) is basically Association, was presented with comprised of kindergartners, so the Missoula Children’s Theatre they got to leave at 5:15.” (MCT), a Montana-based tour- Ella King came to watch her ing company whose productions friends perform. “I thought they promote social skills such as self- did really well,” said the fourth- discipline, a strong work ethic and grader. “I was excited to see them self-esteem in their school-age at the end so I could tell them they performers. did a good job. The girl (Fried- “I was nervous, but overall I man) who played Martha is in my feel I did very well. I’m proud of class. She’s actually talkative in myself,” said fifth-grader Sarah real life, too.” The cast of 'The Secret Garden' takes a bow. 8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 Art & Entertainment

ART/PHOTO EXHIBITS monthly rate. Tools and supplies are for $6.50; or may bottle, label and cork it Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. Blue Bay Press: Eloquence in Printmak- $174. Does not include glass. 5 week class, yourself. Available only on Feb 18. Limit www.firehousearts.org. DANCE ing, Harrington Gallery, Firehouse Arts 2.5 hours each. Weds 10-7, Thurs-Sat 10-9, of six bottles per person. Don't Fence Me In, country and west- Moscow Festival Ballet Presents Sleep- Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. Sun 10-4. Classes are ongoing. Art Glass Barrel Tasting Weekend, March 31, ern, Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m. LVPAC Presents, ing Beauty, Feb. 19, 4 p.m. Dougherty January 19 - February 18, 2012. Exhibit Studio, 174 South L St., Livermore. For 2012 – April 1, 2012 at over 35 Wineries Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Liver- Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 will include several styles of printmaking more information contact Roberta Jones throughout Livermore Valley, noon to more. www.bankheadtheater.org or Albion Rd., San Ramon. www.sanramon. —etching, monotype, chine colle, and at: 925-447-1962 www.artglassstudio. 4:30 p.m. Chance to taste wines before 373-6800. ca.gov woodblock, on handmade paper, canvas, weebly.com they have been bottled, getting a behind Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks, Feb. 24, 8 and other surfaces, for example. It will the scenes look into the winemaking p.m. LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, AUDITIONS/COMPETITIONS also include a small collection of marble WINERY EVENTS process. Meet winemakers, bottle your 2400 First St., Livermore. www.bank- Auditions - Shout! the Mod Musical, sculptures made by Maj-Britt Hilstrom. Charles R Pays a Visit to Swirl, Thursday, own wines, enjoy food pairings, and headtheater.org or 373-6800. Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre production www.firehousearts.org. January 26, 6-8 p.m. Swirl on the Square, other activities that vary by winery. San Ramon Symphonic Band, Feb. 24, directed by Min Kahng. Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m. Scenes of Yosemite, exhibit of paintings Downtown Livermore exclusive pouring Tickets are $30 advance ($35 event day) 7:30 p.m. "Latin Spirit," Dougherty Valley with callbacks Wed., Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m. by Charlotte Severin and Larry Gipson event at Blacksmith Square in downtown and include 2 days of barrel tasting, Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd., 1048 Serpentine Lane, #309, Pleasanton. and photographs by Mark Davis. The Livermore. There is a nominal charge to exclusive discounts, keepsake glass, and San Ramon. www.sanramon.ca.gov Co-Creator Phillip George and David exhibit will be on view through Febru- taste. Swirl is located at 21 S. Livermore special activities at each winery. For a Pacific Chamber Symphony, a profes- Lowenstein, Continuity Peter Charles ary 15 at the Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Avenue in downtown Livermore at list of activities, participating wineries, sional symphony orchestra, concert 8 Morris Rated PG. Please bring 32 bars up Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Gallery Blacksmith Square. (925)454-3040, www. and to purchase tickets, visit www. p.m. Feb. 25, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First tempo 60’s Pop. Accompanist provided. hours are Wed.-Fri. noon to 5 p.m., Sat. charlesrvineyards.com. LVwine.org St., Livermore. Program: Bach to Brahms No a capella or tapes allowed. Be dressed 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and one hour prior to Port and Chocolate Weekends, Tamás - Brandenburg Concerto #6 for wood- for and prepared to dance. All roles open, theater performances. Estates, 5565 Tesla Road, Livermore, MUSIC/CONCERTS winds, Mozart Serenade #12, Brahms ages 18 and older, no pay. Rehearsals Livermore Art Association Winter Show, each weekend throughout February, 11 Music every Saturday in the tasting room Serenade #2. $39/$34/$29 $7 students. begin on February 27. Information at January 4 - 31, Robert Livermore Com- a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sample Tamás Estates from 12 to 4; open every day if the gate www.bankheadtheater.org www.trivalleyrep.org. munity Center at 4444 East Avenue is Barbera Port with a specially selected is open and for sure on Fridays, Satur- Ho'olaule'a o Mana'olana: A Celebration Auditions, The Odd Couple, San Ramon hosting an art exhibit by Livermore chocolate truffle. days and Sundays 11 to 5. Red Feather of Hope, Feb. 25, 7 p.m. Dougherty Valley Community Theater production, audi- Art Association (LAA) artists during Valentine Port and Chocolate Affaire at Winery, 5700 Greenville Rd., Livermore. Performing Arts Center. 10550 Albion Rd., tions February 7, 2012 at 7 p.m. with the month of January. Located on first Charles R Vineyards, Saturday, February Information at 449-1871 or www.red- San Ramon. www.sanramon.ca.gov call-backs on February 9, 2012 at 7 p.m. floor, the show will include various me- 11, noon to 4:30 p.m. Old-fashioned featherwinery.com Salute to the Rat Pack, Sun, Feb. 26, 2 p.m. 6 men and 2 women from ages 20 to diums such as watercolor, acrylics, and Valentine Day with Bonnie's Port Fudge Tri-Valley Medieval and Renaissance A Swingin’ Tribute to Frank, Dean, Sammy 60. Rehearsals begin in February with photography. The community center is and Decadent Chocolate Cake. Pairing Collegium playing session for ama- and The Legends of Las Vegas. Bankhead performances for 3 weekends beginning open 8-6M-Th, 8-5 Friday, and 9-noon the chocolate treats with Vino de Amor teur musicians, Peter Maund, director. Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. www. April 27, 2012. Auditions and call-backs Saturday. (Port), chilled and room temperature, Mondays 7:30–9:30 p.m. 7600 Dublin bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. are at the Front Row Theater in San Expressionist painter Marco Rosales and a Dad's special port tasting for Blvd., suite 370, Dublin. $25. Information Sunol Repertory Theatre Melodrama, Ramon, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd., Shaw works are on display at Pruden- Club Members. Ask how to become a [email protected] or 925-424- "Rogue of the Railway," Fri. and Sat., 8 p.m. San Ramon (located inside the Dough- tial California Realty through March 15. Club Member. 8195 Crane Ridge Rd., 1209 or 925-984-4395 March 9-24. Sunol Glen School, 11601 erty Station Community Center). www. Prudential California Realty is located at Livermore. 454-3040. www.charlesrvine- Chris Bradley's Jazz Band, plays at the Main St., Sunol. Tickets by mail go to sanramoncommunitytheater.org or call 1790 First Street, Livermore. The show is yards.com. Sunol Jazz Cafe (In the Center of Sunol) sunol.net/srt or call 925.862.0664 (925) 389-7529 open for viewing during regular business Cedar Mountain Winery, Port and the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month Acoustic Night, San Ramon Parks and hours or by appointment. Contact Cher Chocolate Tasting February 11, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. The band features real Jazz ON THE STAGE Community Services Department is Wollard at 925 824-4824 or cherw@ 12-4 p.m. in the Winemaker’s Art Gal- from the 1920's, 30's, Laura by Vera Caspary and George Sklar, hosting Acoustic Night for high school cherw.com for information. lery. Late Bottled Vintage Port, Tortuga Open Mic Night, covers or originals, Sun., January 13 - February 4, Role Players students on Friday, March 30 at the Loft, Judy Rice Exhibit, January and February Royale, Luana Inu, and Chardonnay del Jan. 29, 5 to 8 p.m. at Coffee Ali, 3550 Ensemble, 8 p.m. Th., Fri., Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. in the Dougherty Station Community 2012, Garre Winery Restaurant, 7986 Tesla Sol. The LBVP will be paired with Live-For- Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. Sign-ups start Village Theatre, 233 Front St. Danville, Center (17011 Bollinger Canyon Road). Rd., Livermore. Watercolor landscape and More-Fudge made with our port! This at 4:30 p.m. Bring instrument and songs www.ci.danville.ca.us The event starts at 7:30 pm and costs $5 flower paintings at this exhibit. The restau- locally made fudge will be available for prepared for playing. Stage time allotted The Last Five Years, Jan. 27, 28 8 p.m., to attend. The Department is looking for rant is open Monday through Friday from purchase. Chocolate and port gift packs on a first come, first served basis. Host Jan. 22, 29 2 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, talented musicians to perform during 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and at special pricing. Tasting $10 (non-re- and featured act will be Wish Inflicted. 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. this event. The Acoustic Night is open for some dinners. 925-371-8200. fundable on a bottle of wine). 7000 Tesla Information www.wishinflicted.com. firehousearts.org. to all high school students. Interested Road, Livermore; (925) 373-6636. Patsy Cline Tribute with Joni Morris, 2 Annie, Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre performers should contact Jennifer MEETINGS/CLASSES Amor de Les Chenes, Sat., Feb. 11 and p.m. Sat., Feb. 5. Firehouse Arts Center, production, weekends Jan. 21 to Feb. Gault at 973-3375 or email jegault@ Everything Poetry (in two parts), Second Sun., Feb. 12, noon to 4:30 p.m. Les 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. 3. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., sanramon.ca.gov. Visit www.SRTeen.org Saturday Soup-workshops 2nd Saturday Chenes Estate Vineyards, 5562 Victoria firehousearts.org. Livermore. www.bankheadtheater.org for more information. of every month, 10 a.m.-12 noon Fire- Lane, Livermore. Famous Jacqueline Celtic Nights, Feb. 8, 7:30 p.m. LVPAC or 373-6800. house Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Avenue, Kennedy Chocolate Souffle paired with Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Moon Over Buffalo, by Ken Ludwig (of MOVIES Pleasanton; Third Tuesday Trope- poetry our new Petite Sirah Port. $5 fee. www. St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. Lend Me a Tenor fame), is a wild and Classic films at the Pleasanton Library, critiques 3rd Tuesday of every month, leschenesvine.com org or 373-6800. wacky backstage farce ably helmed Las Positas College and the Pleasanton 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Towne Center Books, Chocolate Fondue paired with McGrail Led Zeppelin Experience starring by award winning director Jim Colgan. Public Library present the series. Theme 555 Main Street, Pleasanton. Contact Cabernet Sauvignon, Sun., Feb. 12, "Heartbreaker," Friday, February 10, 8 Chanticleers Theatre’s first show of the this year is ‘Three Great Directors." Ad- Cynthia Bryant at PleasantonPoetry@ noon to 4 p.m. Taste award winning p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., 2012 season, Feb. 24 to March 18, 8 p.m. mission is free. The series is hosted by ci.pleasanton.ca.us. Cabernet Sauvignons with delicate Livermore. www.bankheadtheater.org Fri. and Sat., 2 p.m. Sundays. Chanticleers Candace Klaschus, Professor of Media Art in Public Places, join a local group desserts dipped in chocolate fondue. or 373-6800. Theatre, 3683 Quail Ave., Castro Valley. Studies at Las Positas College. Klaschus of artists and paint on selected Friday McGrail Vineyards and Winery, 5600 Ravi Coltrane, Grammy-Nominated Saxo- General admission $18, seniors, students, offers a brief talk about each film prior mornings around town. ACC/Art Critique Greenville Road, Livermore. $25. www. phonist, Fri., Feb. 10, 8 p.m. Firehouse Arts military $15. Tickets www.chanticleers. to the screening. The three great film and Coffee invites artists to express mcgrailvineyards.com Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. org, [email protected] or directors featured in this year’s series are themselves in watercolor, acrylic, oil For Romance Wine and Chocolate, Feb. 12, www.firehousearts.org. 510-SEE-LIVE (510-733-5483) Howard Hawkes, John Ford and Alfred more details check out the website for 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. sessions, Wente Vine- Legally Blonde, Diablo Theatre Company, Gilbert and Sullivan's, The Gondoliers, Hitchcock. Refreshments are served. A Poetry On Canvas Pleasanton or contact yards. Five decadent chocolate dessert The Musical performs at the Lesher Cen- Lamplighters Music Theatre production, complete list of the ‘Three Great Direc- Claudette at PoetryOnCanvas@Mac. and wine pairings, learn fun facts and ter for the Arts in Walnut Creek, February Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek, tors” films is available at the Pleasanton Com ~ ACC Meets each Friday at vari- trivia about the Valentine’s Day Holiday, 10 - March 3, 2012. For tickets call (925) Fri., Jan. 27 and 28 at 8 p.m. and Jan. 28 and Public Library. Movies will be shown the ous locations. love and romance. Wine Club and Nth 943-SHOW or purchase online. 29 at 2 p.m. www.lamplighters.org. first Thursday of each month through Art Classes for teens and adults, Liver- Degree Club Members $30, all other Livermore Amador Symphony, concert Love Letters – Valentines Production, June 7, 2012. No registration required. more Saturdays 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and guests, $35. Call the Vineyard Tasting Sat., Feb. 11, 8 p.m. featuring two winners Friday to Sunday, Feb. 3 to 5 and 10 to The library is located at 400 Old Bernal Mondays 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Some mate- Room at 925-456-2405 to purchase of the annual Competition for Young Mu- 12, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Ave., Pleasanton. For more information, rials included. Please email instructor tickets. sicians. Program features Something for Sunday. Dublin Heritage Park and Muse- call Penny Johnson, 931-3405. a materials list to purchase supplies. Eagle Ridge Vineyard is celebrating Everyone. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First ums, Donlon Way, Dublin. First theatrical Watercolor, oil paints, charcoal, pastel, Valentine's Day with "Love is in the Air," St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. production in the new Kolb Barn Theatre CHORAL colored pencil, collage, printmaking. Special vendors with gift items; sample org or 373-6800. by Tri-Valley Performers, Love Letters by Cantabella Children’s Chorus is present- Classes also introduce the History of the imported chocolate fountain with Tribute to Glenn Miller, Feb. 12, 2 p.m. A. R. Gurney, for two consecutive week- ing an evening of good food, entertain- Art to students. thomasin_d@hotmail. special goodies. Spend the day in Liver- LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 ends. www.ci.dublin.ca.us. ment, dancing and auctions at the com; (925) 216-7231; http://children- more Wine Country at Eagle Ridge Vine- First St., Livermore. www.bankheadthe- Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Civic Veterans’ Memorial Hall, 522 South L sartclassesprojects.blogspot.com. yard. 10017 Tesla Road, Livermore; (925) ater.org or 373-6800. Arts Stage Company, Feb. 24, 25 and Street, Livermore, 6:30 p.m. Friday, Febru- Make It and Take It, Thursday nights, 447-4328. eagleridgevineyard.com Cypress String Quartet, 3 p.m. Feb. 12, March 2 and 3 at 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 25 and ary 10, 2012. The event is a fund-raiser to with guest artists and demos: January is Thomas Coyne Winery Winter Open Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., 26 and March 3 and 4 at 2 p.m. Firehouse help send the Honors Choir to the World "Fused Birthday Plate" only $15. Art Glass House, Feb. 18, 19 and 20, noon to 5 Pleasanton. www.firehousearts.org. Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasan- Choir Games in Cincinnati, OH, in July, Studio, 174 South L St., Livermore. For p.m. at the historical tasting room at 51 Music of ABBA, winter gala, Feb. 16, 7:30 ton. www.firehousearts.org. where over 20,000 choristers represent- more information contact Roberta Jones E. Vallecitos Road Livermore. Four new p.m. LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, ing more than 70 nations will gather at: 925-447-1962 www.artglassstudio. wines will be released: Reserve Quest, 2400 First St., Livermore. www.bank- COMEDY together. The cruise-themed evening weebly.com Sweet Emillie, Petit Verdot, Vino Tinto headtheater.org or 373-6800. Creatures of Impulse Improv Face-Off, promises lots of fun with entertainment Beginning Stained Glass, start and fin- Reserva. A selection of fine fruits and Hanson and Glover Piano Duet (four Feb. 2, 3 and 4, 7:30 p.m. Firehouse Arts by individuals and groups of singers, ish a small stained glass window (14” x cheeses will be served. Bring a picnic and hands, one piano), Feb. 18, 8 p.m. Del Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. dancing, and treats available during 14”) using cutting and manufacturing enjoy sweeping views of the Livermore Valle Fine Arts Concert, Bankhead www.firehousearts.org. the auctions. All are invited to “book skills. Learn how to use basic glass tools. Valley. "Bottle Your Own Wine," selling Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. www. Comedy @ Firehouse Arts with Andrew passage” on the “Cantabella Cruise Line” Limited to 8 students. Additional studio Vino Tinto Barato at the open house. bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. Norelli, Thurs., Feb. 9, 7:30 p.m. Firehouse at Cantabella.org, or call 925-292-2663 hours are available at a daily, weekly or Bring a clean bottle, we will fill, cork and An Evening in Roma with Naresh Mi- Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasan- for more information. label it for $6.00 per bottle. Use our bottle chael, Feb. 18, 8 p.m. Firehouse Arts ton. www.firehousearts.org. Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 9

OPERA for purchase at Museum on Main, 603 on war, moderated by Jim Ott, veterans Livermore Library. For additional events www.SunolValley.com 20th Anniversary Season Celebration, Main Street, Pleasanton, or by phone are John Shirley, John Sarboraria, Doug check the library’s website at www. Goodguys 30th All American Get- Livermore Valley Opera, Sat., Jan. 28, at 925-462-2766. Cash, checks, Visa or Bell and Joe Cook. Feb, 14, 7 p.m. Sic- livermorelibrary.net. Together, March 24 - March 25, 2012, Duo of Divas: Mezzo-soprano Zheng MasterCard accepted. ily Now and Then: A traveler's journey Murder by Merlot, a wine tasteless event. Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Cao and LVO Advisory Council member Science on Saturday, February 11, 9:30 presented by Jo and George Caporaso; Interactive Mystery Dinner Theatre Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton. Over Erie Mills. Ruby Hill Golf Club, Pleasanton. and 11:45 a.m, Sleuthing Seismic Signals: Feb. 16, 7 p.m. The Swingin' Blue Stars of presented by GibsonHouse Mystery 3,000 All American or American Powered www.livermorevalleyopera.com Understanding Earthquake Hazard and the USS Hornet sings music of the 1940s; Performers at Sunol Valley Golf Club. Rods, Customs, Classics, Muscle Cars, Broadcast from the Met, Dublin Regal Monitoring Nuclear Explosions; Pre- Feb. 23, 7 p.m. everyday life and everyday Fri., March 9. Wine tasting attire most Street Machines and Trucks, Vendors and Hacienda Cinema. Gotterdammerung, senter: Sean Ford, Teacher: Ken Wedel. resistance in Southern Italy during WWII welcome. 3-course gourmet meal and Exhibitors, Indoor and Outdoor Car Show, Feb. 11; Ernani, Feb. 25 and March 14; Lawrence Livermore National Labora- presented by Laura Ruberto; Feb. 26, farcical mystery play, all for $59 per Swap Meet and Cars 4 Sale Corral, Model Manon, April 7 and 25; Turandot, April 14, tory's lecture series for middle and high 2 p.m. dramatic ready from A Bell for Sleuth, tax and gratuity included. Seat- and Pedal Car Show, Arts and Crafts Show, May 2. First date is a morning showing, school students, Bankhead Theater, 2400 Adano by readers from Shakespeare’s ing begins at 7:15 p.m. The Sunol Valley Kids Play Area, Pinstripers Brush Bash and second date afternoon. Check for exact First St., Livermore. No admission charge. Associates. Livermore Reads Together Golf Club, 6900 Mission Road, in Sunol. Auction. For more information visit www. curtain time. 560-0900. www.bankheadtheater.org 2012 is sponsored by Friends of the Reservations required at (925) 862-2408. allamericangettogether.com Science on Saturday, February 18, 9:30 MISCELLANEOUS and 11:45 a.m, Space Junk: Traffic Cops Political Issues Book Club meets the in Space; Presenter: John Henderson, 4th Tuesday of each month, and reads Teacher: Tom Shefler. Lawrence Liver- books about issues and trends that more National Laboratory's lecture are driving current affairs in both the series for middle and high school stu- national and international arenas. Topics dents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Ravi Coltrane Returns to Firehouse that have been covered include politics, Livermore. No admission charge. www. governance, economics, military affairs, bankheadtheater.org history, sociology, science, the climate, Paul Alan Cox, Director of the Institute Pleasanton’s Firehouse Arts and religion. Contact Rich at 872-7923, for EthnoMedicine, Wed., Feb. 22, 7:30 Center will host the return to for further questions p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Pleasanton of jazz saxophonist, We’re Talkin’ Books! Club is a member- Livermore. LLNL Presents The Rae Dor- centered book group led by a small ough Speakers Series: Something in band leader and composer Ravi group of book club veterans, with the Water? www.bankheadtheater.org Coltrane and his quartet. reading selections based on member or 373-6800. The performance will be on recommendations and consensus. Livermore Reads Together, A Bell for Ada- No homework required– share your no, events (Civic Center Library, 1188 So. Friday, February 10, 2012 at 8:00 insights or just listen in! Contact Susan Livermore unless indicated otherwise): p.m. The Firehouse Arts Center, at 337-1282 regarding the We’re Talkin’ Feb. 3, 7 to 9 p.m. The Barn, 3131 Pacific located at 4444 Railroad Avenue Books! Club. Ave., USO Dance, Music of the 1940s by Book Launch Party, Towne Center Books the Royal Society Jazz Orchestra; Feb. 4, in downtown Pleasanton. will host a book launch party for the 10:30 a.m. The Joy of Handbells featur- Coltrane, who last appeared in California Writers Club Tri-Valley Branch's ing the Alleluia Ringers; Feb. 7, 7 p.m. Pleasanton in February of 2008 anthology, Voices of the Valley: First Viola Buitoni presents program on the has performed as a sideman with Press. The public is welcome. Refresh- Italian Heart of a California Cook; Feb. 9, ments; author short story, memoir, and 1:30 p.m. Armchair Travelers: Sicily and many jazz luminaries, recorded poetry readings. Saturday, January 28, the Amalfi Coast with Dale Schauer; Feb. albums for himself and others, 2012 from 2-4:00 p.m. at the bookstore, 9, 7 p.m. National Park history Stephen overseen important jazz reissues, located at 555 Main Street, Pleasanton. Haller will discuss the legacy of World Books will be available for purchase. War II in the Bay Area; Feb. 11, 10:30 p.m., and founded the prominent inde- Reservations helpful but not necessary. children's program sing, ring, listen and pendent record label, RKM. He Call 925-846-8826 or email to orders@ paint; Feb. 11, noon, Vine Cinema, 1722 frequently tours internationally townecenterbooks.com First St., screening of movie, The Secret Museum on Main, preschool pre-literacy of Santa Vittoria; Feb. 12, 2 p.m. panel of with the Ravi Coltrane Quartet. program, M.o.M.’s Reading Time. For veterans will provide their perspectives Named for Indian sitar artist ages 2 to 5 and families, free reading Ravi Shankar, Coltrane is the son program, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Reading at 10 a.m. with theme crafts following. of music legends John and Alice Donations appreciated. No reservations Coltrane. He says, “My mother required. Large groups or playgroups GARDEN played piano and organ at home please phone in advance: 925.462.2766 (continued from front page) every day and she took us to or email: education@museumonmain. do is not procrastinate. I’ve dealt org. 2012 M.o.M.’s Reading Time Dates recording sessions. She played and Themes: February 8, The Day it with that previously. My advice my father’s LPs and recordings Rained Hearts; March 14, The End of would be to really get it down in of classical music.” According to the Rainbow; April 11, Art Smart; May 9, the beginning.” Please and Thank You; June 13, Flag Day; Without exception, the students Coltrane, he listened to a wide va- July 11, We All Scream for Ice Cream; Au- remarked that they were glad riety of music growing up, includ- gust 8, It’s A Circus; September 12, Fiesta; ing Rhythm and Blues, soul, pop October 10, Creepy Critters; November they’d had the opportunity to par- 14, Thank You, Veterans; and, December ticipate. “It’s really fun, you get tunes of the day, and film scores. 12, Light Up the Seasons. The Museum to meet new people, you get to be “Jazz was something I appreciated, on Main is located at 603 Main Street in but I had to reach my late teens historic downtown Pleasanton. in front of people and you get to Science on Saturday, Feb. 4, 9:30 and 11:15 pretend to be someone else,” said and go through profound family a.m, The Gamma-Ray Spectrometer at Sarah Spence. “It’s unbelievable. changes before the music became Mercury: A Seven Year Journey to the You would never hate this.” the dominant force in my life.” Innermost Planet; Presenter: Morgan Ravi Coltrane Burks, Teacher: Dan Burns. Lawrence “Unless maybe you peed your In 2005, Coltrane’s fourth al- Livermore National Laboratory's lecture pants onstage,” added Alyssa bum, “IN FLUX”, was voted the series for middle and high school stu- Mack, the fifth-grader who played #3 top album in The New York dents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., the lead role of Mary, likely giving Livermore. No admission charge. www. Times' prestigious 2005 year-end have solidified Coltrane’s standing It’s important to be authentic and bankheadtheater.org voice to a fear of many children list. Of “IN FLUX”, Ben Ratliff as one of today’s most innovative who perform live. make music that means something Ed Kinney Lecture Series, 7 p.m. An wrote in the New York Times: jazz artists and improvisers. now. It’s exciting to be on the Evening with President Roosevelt, Tues., Both girls admitted they’d like "Mr. Coltrane avoids tired song “I want to be involved with Feb. 7. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Rail- to continue acting. Alyssa would journey.” road Avenue, Pleasanton. $10 General structures and doesn't want to bore music that is truly honest – that’s Adult tickets are $20, $25 and Admission, $5 Members and Seniors, $3 choose a role on the Disney Chan- you. He's fascinated on one hand not trying to follow trends or fit Students/Teachers with ID. All tickets are nel, while Sarah says either that or $30. Student tickets are $12. They by miniatures and on the other by into someone’s idea about what may be purchased online at www. paid at the door. All tickets are open seat- perhaps a role in a scary movie, the idea of longer songs that sound ing. Information www.museumonmain. adding gravely, “I would want jazz ‘is,’” Coltrane says. “To me, firehousearts.org up to three hours org or (925) 462-2766. to be the character who is killed like collective improvisation from I’m only trying to be a musician, prior to the performance, by phone Casks, Kegs and Cupids, Museum on start to finish. It's a record that you and we honor the legacies of those Main’s Valentine fund-raising dinner. last.” at (925) 931-4848, or in person Handles Gastropub in the Pleasanton For more information on pre- can point to and say: This is what who have gone before by just play- at the Firehouse Arts Center Box Hotel on Saturday, February 11 at 6 pm. senting a Missoula Children’s jazz sounds like now." That album ing and doing our own thing. If our Office. The entrance to free park- Gourmet dinner paired with fine wines was followed by “BLENDING generation simply copycats the or beers, live auction and popular two- Theatre performance visit: www. ing is on Spring Street near First bit auction. $80 per person. Tickets are mctinc.org. TIMES” in 2009, which is said to greats of the past, that’s not real. Street. 10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 Community Lecture Series Helps Foothill High Students Weigh Career Options

By Jim Brice early 1990s. She gained broadcast to maximize their prospects for Tri-Valley business people and experience for TV news stations in success. professionals are helping Pleasan- Redding, Chico, and Sacramento “Good job performance is es- ton's Foothill High School students before joining KPIX Channel 5 sential,” she said. “Career progress answer the age-old question: What in 1997. comes as you create a positive should I be when I grow up? Gonzales’ pathway to the top image about yourself with your A new lunch-time Career Talk weather anchor post at KPIX co-workers and the community. lecture series, sponsored by Pleas- started the ground level as gar- Exposure comes as your profes- anton North Rotary, aims at in- dener and messenger at KPRI FM sional mentors and colleagues creasing future career options radio and XETV Channel 6 in San make other people aware of you, for Foothill students by exposing Diego. She was a writer, reporter, especially if you are young in your them to jobs they may not oth- and film editor before her career career.” erwise consider for themselves, as a weathercaster took flight at Foothill student and Interact said the program’s creator Kevin WMAQ in Chicago. president Alex Ku noted that learn- Greenlee. In her talk, Gonzales stressed ing about more types of careers “Career Talk is intended to give the importance of goal-setting for could work to her advantage. students exposure to a wide variety attaining one’s professional heart’s “It gives me opportunities to of career paths over their academic desire. see the different opportunities I year,” Greenlee said. “It will hope- “I gave (the students) an idea actually have,” she said. “I may fully stimulate them to seek out of who I am, where I came from. not think I have the potential to further information as they plan If I can dream big, so can they,” do something, but listening to this for college or seek out other op- she said. gives me confidence that I can do portunities after high school.” Cheryl Stark lectured students something as well.” Greenlee developed the pro- Jan. 12 about her work as director Jerry Chen, Interact Club secre- gram while volunteering as PNR’s of customer logistic development tary, is using the session to expand youth services coordinator. It at Kraft Foods, Livermore. Stark his career options. includes providing oversight for is responsible for the delivery ““I found the lectures to be chapter’s 85-member Rotary Inter- and presentation of numerous very insightful because they are act Club at Foothill High. Kraft products at Safeway stores. about careers I have not actually The 17-week series held on She applies sales, marketing, and considered before,” he said. “It the Foothill High campus covers organizational skills to keeping opens up a lot of career possibili- the pleasure, pains, and necessary Safeway’s shelves filled with Kraft ties for me.” qualifications to work as a fire- Jell-O, Oreo Cookies, Capri Sun The schedule of Career Talk fighter, TV meteorologist, lawyer, fruit drinks and other products. lectures for the 2011-2012 has human resources specialist, sales- As an international corpora- been filled, but organizers are person, financial planner, and other tion, Kraft hires employees with looking for Pleasanton residents to professions. diverse skills including packaged participate in the program for the For Foothill High students interested in international careers The series was launched in De- food research and development, school year beginning in August. opportunities, Cheryl Stark noted that more than half of Kraft’s cember with separate sessions on food manufacturing, package de- Potential speakers should contact business is generated from outside of North America. broadcast journalism meteorology sign, transportation, warehousing, Foothill High assistant principal by Juliette Goodrich and Roberta finance, sales, and marketing, she Laurie Vella (lvella@pleasanton. Gonzales. Both work for KPIX TV said. The company employs 150 k12.ca.us) for details. and Radio in San Francisco. workers at its Livermore facility Goodrich graduated with a com- as well as factories and distribution munications undergraduate degree facilities in San Leandro, Stockton, from the University of California, Fullerton, and Tulare, CA. Teacher Awarded $3600 Grant Davis. She started her broadcasting Stark urged students to follow National Security Technolo- security and national defense. partnerships from the lower grades career reporting for Channel 30 in the three principles of perfor- gies LLC, (NSTec) has awarded The company has locations in to the competitive environment her hometown of Pleasanton in the mance, image, and exposure (PIE) some of the more than $50,000 Nevada, New Mexico, California of higher education,” says NSTec in available grants to local school and Maryland. NSTec aggressively President Raymond J. Juzaitis. “It teachers for innovations in science, supports education in these areas is our hope that these grant recipi- technology, engineering and math through more than $2 million in ents will help develop students in (STEM). education grants and charitable science, technology, engineering In Livermore, Regina Brinker, contributions. and math who may one day be- a teacher at Christensen Middle The new grants, known as come members of our professional School, was awarded $3,600. STEM Innovative Instruction team.” NSTec is a science and technol- Grants, were available to teachers NSTec manages operations at ogy company located in Nevada in grades kindergarten through 12, the NNSS and its related facilities The management and operating in counties where NSTec operates. and laboratories for the NNSA/ contractor for the Nevada National The grant money must be used NSO. NSTec teams with Lawrence Security Site (NNSS), NSTec in support of STEM programs Livermore National Laboratory, employs more than 525 scientists, outlined by a teacher, in a formal Los Alamos National Laboratory, engineers and technology profes- proposal. and Sandia National Laboratories sionals who carry out the missions “This type of outreach expands on many national security pro- of the NNSS supporting homeland our existing business-education grams.

Community THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 11

Foothill Cheer Squads Bring Home Trophies Foothill High School’s Varsity The group stunt teams took top and JV competition cheer squads honors at both competitions as (pictured at right) brought home well, taking on three and six other five first place awards from South- teams respectively at each venue ern California this past weekend in the High School Group Stunt after competing in back-to-back Intermediate division. Regionals in Rancho Santa Mar- 2012 has started off with a garita and Murrieta. bang for Foothill High School’s This annual, whirlwind journey competition cheer squads. The two provides the FHS squads an op- group stunt teams took top honors portunity to face opposing teams in the High School Group Stunt from the southern end of the state Intermediate division at the USA prior to nationals. Regional competition held at Bear FHS decidedly put the So Cal Creek High School in Stockton a teams on notice that “We are Foot- week before heading to Southern hill!” “The girls have been practic- California. The teams next travels ing incredibly hard for months to to UC Davis in February for the perfect their skills and routine. California Open and then to Ana- They were rock solid this week- heim in March for Nationals. end. I’m so proud of them,” said The Varsity squad includes Coach Kim DeJoy upon returning Amanda Arnold, Jori Berman to Pleasanton. (team captain), Sarina DeJoy, Ca- The Varsity squad beat out ressa DeRossett, Bailey Downum, seven other teams at the Murrieta Diane Hadley, Camille Hamlin, Regional to win first place in the Hayley Jefferies, ‘Alakoka Kaila- Varsity Show Cheer Intermediate hi, Keri Kodama, Gabriella Scalise division on Sunday. and Haley Zavattero. The JV team triumphed over The JV squad includes Haley eight other teams on Saturday at Bean, Zoe Cristobal, Mitsu Dill, Rancho Santa Margarita Regional Sarah Downey, Kelsey Emery, Mi- and 5 other teams Sunday at the chelle French, Rikki Holman, Em- Murrieta Regional to post a pair ily Palange (team captain), Jordan Sarina DeJoy, Bailey Downum, Hamlin, Hayley Jefferies, Emily cheer squads and is assisted by of first place wins in the JV Show Robinson, Taylor Sanchez, Jessica ‘Alakoka Kailahi, Jordan Robin- Palange, Gabbie Scalise Karen Maurice, Megan Moore and Cheer Novice division. The JV Smilovitz, Sabrina Stermer, Brit- son, Haley Zavattero, Team Gab- Kim DeJoy is the head coach Cheryl Holy. squad remains undefeated this tany Trevor, and Natalie Wright. bie, Caressa DeRossett, Camile for Foothill’s nationally ranked season. The group stunt teams include Tom Chance Joins Prudential Prudential California Realty he did an impressive $10,602,000 role in various company training programs offered at no cost to announced the addition of Tom in sales volume. Prior to joining Elizabeth Feldstein has been named to the University of Delaware's Dean's Chance as the Branch Manager Prudential California Realty, Tom all agents. On joining Prudential List for Fall 2011. Feldstein is a Senior Arts and Sciences major from Dublin. of its Livermore office, recently was with J. Rockcliff Realtors in California Realty, Tom said, “I To meet eligibility requirements for the Dean's List, a student must be enrolled relocated next door to 1780 First Livermore. have been friends with Gretchen full-time and earn a GPA of 3.33 or above (on a 4.0 scale) for the semester. Street. Gretchen Pearson, President for years. It was only a matter of A 30-year veteran of the real of Prudential California Realty, time before we officially began Hansen Shi, grade 10, of Dublin; parents Dr. Jianxiong Shi and Mrs. Manli estate industry, Tom began his states “Tom is a fantastic addition working together, and with the Zhang, earned Highest Honors for the Fall 2011 term at Phillips Exeter Acad- career in the mortgage business to our management team, and new office location, the timing emy. just seemed right. As a family in 1981, where he served as Vice continues our trend of attracting Harsha Koneru, a fourth-year student from Livermore, has been named to President for a regional foreclo- top talent in the industry. He has man, I feel especially aligned with the fall 2011 dean's list at St. Bonaventure University. Koneru is majoring in sure company. He began selling built a remarkable career in the the family-focus of Prudential Biology real estate full-time in 1986, and Tri-Valley area, and now has the California Realty. Family always besides serving as an office man- strength of a renowned national comes first.” Nine hundred and thirty-six undergraduate students at Northwestern State ager for several real estate firms, brand and a thriving local company For more information on University of Louisiana have been named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2011 he has led a prosperous selling behind him." career opportunities with Pru- semester. Students on the Dean’s List must be enrolled full time at Northwestern dential California Realty, please State and have a grade point average for the fall semester of between 3.5 and career that includes an appoint- Tom will be managing Pruden- 3.99. Among those on the list is Drew William Helenihi of Livermore. ment as Realtor of the Year for tial California Realty’s Livermore contact Gretchen Pearson at the Tri-Valley in 1997. In 2011, office. He may eventually play a 888.696.1776. 12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 Community

(Organizations wishing to run notices covering the basics of avalanche formation healingtherapiesfoundation.org or call (866) at 373-4880 for tickets and/or information. 449-3824. in Bulletin Board, send information to PO and release, as well as best practices for safe, 862-7270. Widowed Men and Women of North- United Christian Church, celebrating 50 Box 1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care of winter backcountry travel. Register for this 7 Secrets to a Good Night’s Sleep, Shan- ern CA., Brunch/lunch in Pleasanton, Jan. years in the Tri-Valley. 1886 College Ave. at M Bulletin Board or email information to ed- free presentation at www.rei.com/dublin. non Williams from Successful Health will be 29, 11:30 a.m., RSVP by Jan. 26 to Ruby, St., Livermore; worships on Sunday morning [email protected]. Include name of REI, 7099 Amador Plaza Road, in Dublin; for the presenter, Pleasanton Unified School 462-9636. at 10:30 a.m. Children’s program on Sunday organization, meeting date, time, place and more information about these programs, District Presents GNON 2012 Speaker Series. Livermore Adult Community Educa- morning and first Fridays. The community theme or subject. Phone number and contact (925) 828-9826. Thurs., Jan. 26, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Harvest Park tion is celebrating 88 years serving the is welcome. United CC is an Open and Af- person should also be included. Deadline is Valley Spokesmen Bicycle Touring Middle School, 4900 Valley Ave., Pleasanton. Livermore Valley’s Adult Learners. The follow- firming ministry. Call 449-6820 for more 5 p.m. Friday.) Club, Sat., Jan. 28, 30 or 43 miles, Cinderella Register for class at www.pleasanton.k12. ing classes coming up: Microsoft Office 2010, information. Rummage Sale, Sat., Jan. 28, 8 a.m. to conditioning rides, meet 9 a.m. at Crank 2 ca.us/adulted Click on enrichment courses QuickBooks, English as a Second Language, Faith Chapel Assembly of God, 6656 noon, The Barn, 3131 Pacific Ave., Livermore. in Pleasanton, Mark Dedon, 510-334-1976 or call (925) 426-4280. Free for current paid Adult High School Diploma, GED, Yoga and Alisal St., Pleasanton, Sunday School for all For more information, call 373-5700 or visit or Emma Olenberger, 707-479-2549. Sun., GNON members, $15/pp nonmembers. Art. Call 925-606-4722 or visit www.liver- ages 9:15 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m., Children’s www.larpd.dst.ca.us. Jan. 29, 40 miles Lafayette to Pinole, meet Free Electronic Waste Recycling Fund- moreadulted.org for information. Church 11:15 a.m. Women's Bible study Retired Public Employees under 9:30 a.m. at Acalanes High School, Alberto raiser, Sat., Jan. 28, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Granada Annual Crab Feed for Forest Home Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Intercessory prayer Calpers, Thurs., Feb. 2 meeting 10:45 a.m. Lanzas, 510-825-9581. Wed., Feb. 1, 34 miles High School - Parking Lot, 400 Wall Street, Farms Historic Park, 6 p.m. Sat., Jan. 28 at 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. Please call office at Emil Villa's Hickory Pit and Grill, 3064 Pacific San Ramon to Walnut Creek, meet 10 a.m. Livermore. Benefit for Granada High School the Dougherty Station Community Center, 846-8650 for weekly programs. Ave., Livermore. Information, call Muriel at at Central Park, Peter Rathmann, 336-0973. Safe & Sober Grad Night. Raising money so 170011 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon. Trinity, 557 Olivina Ave., Livermore. 447-1920. Anyone planning to go on a ride is asked to that the Granada Class of 2012 can have "the Price is $42 per person. Contact Carol Lopez Sunday worship at 8:30 and 11 a.m. and 6 Jungle of Jewels, The American Cancer call the leader for details on where to meet time of their lives" without risking their lives. at 925-828-0586 or any Board Member of p.m. Sunday school or Bible study for all ages Society Discovery Shop in Pleasanton is re- and what to bring. By providing a Safe and Sober Grad Night, the the San Ramon Historic Foundation. No host at 9:45 a.m. Awana is Sunday at 3:30 p.m. questing donations of costume or precious Eighth Annual Bringing Back the risk of harm to graduates, and the community social hour 6 p.m. with complimentary hors Wednesday nights there is adult Bible study jewelry for its annual jewelry event, “Jungle Natives Garden Tour: Registration for the at large on a night when the risk is unusually d'oeuvres; wine and beer for sale; dinner at 6:45 and NRG and Re.Gen for youth, and of Jewels” on March 9, 10 and 11, 2012. Dona- Eighth Annual Bringing Back the Natives high can be greatly reduced. Information, served at 7 p.m. Fun cake auction planned. children's choir for kids. Child care during all tions are accepted at the shop during open Garden Tour, which will take place on Sunday, Yvonne Herbeck 925-352-4622. All proceeds are used to provide programs, events. 447-1848, www.trinitylivermore.org. hours: Monday to Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-5, May 6, 2012 from 10 to 5, is now open. This Creating A Happier, Healthier You, special events on the farm and maintenance Stepping Stones on Grief Journey Sunday 12-5. The Discovery Shop is located in free, award-winning tour features 45 Alam- series of free seminars at the Pleasanton for Forest Home Farms Historic Park and the workshop, bimonthly event. St. Elizabeth the Mission Plaza Shopping Center at 1987-A eda and Contra Costa county gardens that Library presented by Dr. Christine Dickson. Glass House. Seton Church, 4001 Stoneridge Dr., Pleas- Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton. Contact Monda are pesticide-free, conserve water, provide They are held on the third Thursday of each Operation: S.A.M. "Supporting All Mili- anton. 2nd and 4th Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Wiseman, Mgr. at (925) 462-7374 for more habitat for wildlife, and contain 60% or more month at 7 p.m. Topics include: Feb. 16, dress tary" is a 501(c)3 non profit military support Jan. 26, 2012 Feb. 9 & 23, 2012 and March 8 information. All proceeds benefit the Ameri- native plants. This self-drive tour showcases a yourself in love; March 15, go on a low infor- organization based in Livermore. S.A.M. has & 22, 2012. No preregistration is necessary. can Cancer Society’s programs of research, variety of gardens, from large parcels in the mation diet; April 19, build your emotional been in operation since January 2004. It These sessions are open to all, regardless of education, service and advocacy. hills to small lots in the flats. Native plant sales intelligence; May 17, move beyond your is dedicated to the continued support of religious affiliation. Please call Mary Hagerty Bingo, Christensen Middle School at the and talks are offered at select gardens. Space mind; June 21, become an optimist. Dickson deployed troops. Preparation of comfort at 925-846-5377 for more information. Bingo Ranch, 3070 Pacific Ave, Livermore, is limited and registration is required. This holds a Dual Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and packages takes place every other week Catholicism, St. Michael Catholic Church Saturday, January 28. Doors open at 4:00, tour will fill; register early to ensure a place. Industrial-Organizational Psychology, and - all year long. Providing morale support for in Livermore will screen all ten episodes play begins at 6:30. Come at 4:30 to learn Volunteers are needed. Please register or received her training at the National Naval those deployed. All information provided is of Father Robert Barron's groundbreaking how to play. Complimentary nachos, cook- volunteer at www.bringingbackthenatives. Medical Center’s Department of Internal confidential and is not shared for security "Catholicism" series, followed by a question ies and coffee available for all players. Door net/ A companion event, the Native Plant Medicine where she specialized in preven- purposes. To submit a name and address, and answer session led by Suzanne Slupesky, prize drawing will be held. Proceeds from Sale Extravaganza, will take place throughout tive medicine and chronic disease. Library inquire about donations or helping, please Catholic theology scholar. One episode will this night will help support programs at CMS the weekend of April 30 and May 1. programs are free and open to everyone. Call visit www.operationsam.org, email opera- be featured per night for 10 consecutive that help students achieve their best. Future San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club, Penny Johnson at 925/931-3405 for informa- [email protected] or call 925 443-7620 Mondays through March 12, 2012, from CMS nights at the Bingo Ranch: Thurs. Feb 16, invites new & longtime residents to its tion. 400 Old Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. for more information and the calendar of 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in St. Michael Parish Hall Sat. Feb 25. Contact Deanna at bingo4cms@ monthly luncheon on February 16 at Crow It’s a New Year…Make it a New You! events. located on the 300 Block of Maple Street, gmail.com for more information. Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Dr., WIGS (Women In GNON Seminars). Deanna Free Diabetes Self-Management Livermore, California. Admission is free. For Tri-Valley Republican Women Feder- Danville. 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; cost is $21.00. Hinkins, owner of Hairlights Salon, and her Classes, 6 to 7 week series will teach you additional information on Father Barron's ated dinner and special evening with Janie The speaker will be author Shiela Bali. She team will talk about how to achieve a new how to manage your diabetes with exercise, series visit www.catholicismseries.com. St. Johnson, author of “Don’t take my lemonade will speak on her family's escape from the look. Mon, Jan. 30, 5:30 p.m. Hairlights Salon health eating (including the foods you love) Michael Parish, 458 Maple Street, Livermore, stand, an American Philosophy”, and “Obama Hungarian Revolution. Call Grace, 925-828- (4307 Valley Ave., #F, Pleasanton). RSVP to and medications, and answer all your ques- 925-447-1585. 2012 Slogans Rewritten." Janie will discuss 8554, for reservations & information. [email protected] by January 27. Free to tions about living with diabetes. Thursdays, Centerpointe Church, 3410 Cornerstone her prescription for preserving the Republic Bingo Bash, Italian Catholic Federation, GNON members, $10 for non-members. February 23 through April 5 at the Pleasanton Court, Pleasanton. Services: 9 a.m. blended- foundation of our country. Event info: Thurs- Branch #285 is holding its annual "Bingo Livermore Historymobile, Artifacts Senior Center. Class is open to adults of all style with choir and band, family worship. day, February 9, 2012, 6:30 p.m., Cattlemen's Bash," a fund-raiser to aide the Cooley's Ane- needed. The Heritage Guild is in the process ages (not just Seniors) with pre-diabetes 10:30 a.m. contemporary led by band, Restaurant, 2882 Kitty Hawk Road, Livermore. mia research at Children's Hospital-Oakland of updating the Livermore Historymobile, or type 2 diabetes. Please call the Alameda Sunday School for children and middle- $30 guests, $26 members. For reservations and the college scholarship fund. The event which is used to teach local history to Liver- County Diabetes Program at 510-383-5185 schoolers. www.centerpointechurch.org; or information: [email protected] will be held Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012 at 7:00 more third graders and also is a resource for to register. Space is limited. 925-846-4436. or 925-462-4931. www.trivalleyrepublican- p.m. at St. Michael's Parish Hall, 372 Maple St., the community. If you should happen to have Daughters of the American Revolution St. Innocent Orthodox Church, 1040 women.org for information on other TVRWF Livermore. There will be 10 games of bingo, any Livermore artifacts you might be willing (DAR), Josefa Higuera Livermore Chapter, Florence Rd., Livermore. Sunday service at activities. dancing to the music of DJ Joe Buonsante, to donate, please call and I'll be happy to meets 9:30 a.m. first Saturday of the month 10 a.m. For details please see our website Livermore-Amador Genealogical a raffle and a dance exhibition by Grace & pick them up. This would include any items from September to May at Asbury United at www.stinnocent.net or call Fr. Leo Arrow- Society, meeting at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Bryan Bandong. Cost is $10.00 per person. referring to local Native Americans, early Methodist Church, 4743 East Ave., Livermore. smith at 456-0845. Feb.14, 2012 at Congregation Beth Emek, Beverages, pizza and snacks available for pur- Spaniards and missionaries, ranchers, early DAR is a women's service organization. Adult Inquirer's Class, St. Clare’s Episco- 3400 Nevada Ct., Pleasanton. The speaker chase. Reservation deadline: Feb. 13. Call Rose days at LLNL, wineries, etc. If you have any Members are descended from a patriot of pal Church, 3350 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, is Lisa B. Lee, Professional Genealogist, who S. 925-846-4227 or Elaine M. 925-846-0897. questions or would like to donate, contact the American Revolution and are dedicated adult inquirer's class, Sunday mornings will discuss how to access the NEHGS web- If unable to attend, a donation would be ap- Nancy Mulligan, 925-443-3076. to patriotism, preservation of American his- January and February. Learn about the Epis- site for digital images, recorded seminars, preciated. Mail donations to ICF c/o E. Meier, Writing Club for Young Adults, ages tory, and securing America's future through copalian faith. Rev. Carol Cook will be the articles, and researching data bases for New 6597 Lansing Ct., Pleasanton, Ca. 94566. 12- 21, are invited to join The Writing Club education. Contact Maris at 443-3087 or guide. For more information call the church England, Canada, and the British Isles. www. Tri-Valley Democratic Club monthly at the Livermore Public Library, Civic Center. [email protected]. office 925-462-4802. Sign up on the church L-AGS.org/maps/Pls-BethEmek.html. Contact meeting, Mon., Feb. 20, 7 p.m. doors open, The Writing Club will meet once a month on Toastmasters - Livermore Lunch kiosk or on the web site: www.stclarespleas- Cheryl Palmer, email: [email protected] 7:30 p.m. meeting. This will be a meet the Thursdays, January 26, February 23, March 29, Bunch meets Mondays at noon, conference anton.org. E-reader download class, Pleasanton candidates night. Q&A will follow brief state- and April 26, 2012, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., for room, 2157 First St., Livermore. Learn to de- Crab and Pasta Dinner, Feb. 4, 6 to 9 p.m. Public Library is offering a series of free one- ments by the candidates. Refreshments. IBEW a fun-filled evening of writing with author J.L. velop communication and leadership skills St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Hopyard time classes in February to teach patrons Hall, 6250 Village Pkwy, Dublin. Powers. This free event will take place in the in a supportive environment that fosters Road, Pleasanton. Tickets are $50.00 per how to download free electronic books, au- Annual Rummage Sale, First Presbyte- Storytime Room of the Civic Center Library, self-confidence and personal growth. www. person (includes beverages) and $40.00 diobooks and music to an E-Reader. Classes rian Church, 451 So. K Street, Livermore. Fri. 1188 South Livermore Avenue, Livermore. livermoretoastmasters.org. for those under 21. (No take home baggies, teach those with a Kindle, Kindle Fire, Nook, and Sat., Feb. 3 and 4, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Learn about publishing your works and how D.A.R. Daughters of the American please.) Reservations required by Sunday, or tablet how to download material from the Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. to expand writing horizons. Write and edit Revolution, Jose Marie Amador Chapter, January 29. No tickets will be sold at the door library. Classes begin on Tuesday, February 7 Tri-Valley Animal Rescue (TVAR), Claws each other’s work. For more information, Pleasanton. Meetings first Saturday of the (crab must be pre-ordered to assure there and are scheduled at 7:00 p.m. Participants for Paws , Saturday, February 4, 2012, from please visit TEEN SPACE on the library’s web- month. Group is comprised of descendants is enough). Child care will be available. For must have a current Pleasanton library card 6-10 p.m. This fund-raising event will serve site: www.livermorelibrary.net, or contact of Patriots of the American Revolution. It is a more information contact the church office to download e-materials. Registration is up all-you-can-eat Crab, Caesar Salad, Pasta, Sandy at 925-373-5500, extension 5583. service organization that provides contests, at 925-462-4802 . required, please call the Reference Desk at Rolls, Dessert and Coffee/Tea. Raffle baskets; Match Key Mixer, Single professionals awards and scholarships. For members, Tri-Valley Cultural Jews will be hosting 925.931.3400, extension 7. no-host bar (beer and wine). The event is of all ages are invited to meet new friends, prospective members, and information on Tu B'Shvat at the Hayward Shoreline Interpre- Pleasantonians 4 Peace, sponsoring a being held at the Shrine Event Center, 170 Friday, January 27, 2012, 8 p.m.-midnight, meeting location, contact Ann 510-507-5509 tive Center. Tu B'Shvat Seder in honor of the candlelight Vigil 7 p.m. Wed., Feb. 8 in front of Lindbergh Avenue, Livermore. Tickets are $50. at the Marriott Hotel, 11950 Dublin Canyon or [email protected]. New Year of the Trees and taste the seven the Museum on Main, 603 Main Street, down- Order tickets on-line at www.tvar.org, or mail Rd., Pleasanton. The cost of the party is $20 species of fruits in Israel; learn about the town Pleasanton. Participants will reflect on a check to TVAR, PO Box 11143, Pleasanton, at the door, which includes the Match Your RELIGION shoreline area and pick up litter in the area. the human and monetary costs of the war, CA 94588. Please include e-mail address so Key Mixer, plus dancing to your favorite hits. Unitarian Universalist, 1893 N. Vasco All necessities will be provided. 10:30-12:30. honor veterans who have sacrificed, and ticket confirmation can be sent electroni- This event is co-sponsored by The Society Rd., Livermore. 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. February 5, 2012. A donation of $5 per non- visualize ways of moving beyond this conflict cally to save on mailing costs. For more in- of Single Professionals, the world’s larg- Information 447-8747. member over 13. This is a child and adult to a more peaceful world. Peaceful War Pro- formation, please contact Susan Ruxton at est nonprofit singles organization; and by Congregation Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada friendly event. Any questions, please call test on the fourth Wednesday of the month, [email protected] or 925-337-4946. MatchYourKey.com. Anyone wishing more Court, Pleasanton. Information 931-1055. Jamie Ireland at 510-888-1404 February 22, between 5 - 6 at the corners of 4th annual "Ragin Cajun" Mardi Gras information about this and many other Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, affiliated with Judaism in the Time of Jesus, Jan. 29, First and Neal Streets. Questions?? Call Cathe themed dinner and dance, silent and live singles parties may call 415/507-9962 or visit the Congress of Secular Jewish Organiza- 7 p.m., Israeli Historian Reuven Kalfon will Norman at (925) 462-7495; Matt Sullivan at auction fund-raiser for the Sandra J. Wing www.ThePartyHotline.com. tions (csjo.org). Information, Rabbi Judith speak on his discovery of a cave associated [email protected]; or kdowding@pacbell. Healing Therapies Foundation (SJWHTF), on Crab Feed, Sat., Feb. 11, Aahmes Event Seid, Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, 485-1049 or with John the Baptist, outside his kibbutz net. www.Pleasantonians4Peace.org Friday, March 2, at 6:30 p.m. at the Palm Event Center, Livermore. 6 p.m. doors open, 7 p.m. EastBaySecularJews.org. in Israel. He will help people of all faiths Avalanche Awareness: Tips for Safe Center in Pleasanton. Tickets are $85 per dinner, 8 p.m. dancing to "Country Flavor St. Matthew's Baptist Church, 1239 understand the practice of Judaism at the Winter Backcountry Travel: Thurs., Feb. 2, 7 person. The event will be hosted by Jessica Band." Menu of crab and prime rib, pasta, North Livermore Ave., Livermore. Services on time of Jesus. Suggested donation $10, p.m. Owner of Mountain Adventure Seminars Aguirre and Mike Inouye. Bring your dancing salad, French bread and dessert. No host Sunday at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Adult Sunday students free. Sponsored by Beth Emek Con- (MAS), one of California’s leading AIARE-certi- shoes, beads and masks to the event. Help bar. Silent auction. Fund-raising for Shrine school 9:30 a.m., Children's Sunday school gregation and Lynnewood United Methodist fied avalanche education providers, Aaron us, help cancer patients. Last year's event nonprofit. Tickets $40 per person, table of ten at 9:30 a.m. Prayer each Wednesday at 7 Church, 4444 Black Ave., Pleasanton. www. Johnson will offer a multimedia presentation, sold out, purchase tickets early. Visit www. $375. Contact the Shrine Event Center Office p.m. followed by Bible study at 7:30 p.m. lynnewood.org