VOLUME LII, NUMBER 52 Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING DUBLIN • LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 Poll Shows Dissatisfaction Over Dublin Growth Problems

By Ron McNicoll developers should pay for However, the survey does ties to participate in the were unaffiliated. Most of the current Dub- all or most of the cost of include a big sampling of poll. They included DRRG, In the survey, Gupta is Find Out What's lin City Council members, building schools, and there the attitudes of many people and other growth-concerned the only official that respon- Happening except for Vice-mayor Abe is little confidence in the who have have shown up at groups, such as Dubliners dents clearly say should be Gupta, have high negative school board. meetings to urge the council for Change and onedublin. retained, although Mayor Check Out Section A ratings that reflect they are The poll was conducted to halt any new General Plan org. Others contacted were David Haubert does better Section A is filled with dropping the ball when it by Ganesan Ramu, who Amendments for residential change.org, neighborhood than Coucilmembers Don information about arts, comes to growth, according organized Dublin Residents growth, mainly citing im- Google groups, and the Dub- Biddle, Doreen Wehrenberg people, entertainment and to a selective, on-line poll of for Responsible Growth pacts to school population lin Chinese Association. and Kevin Hart. special events. There are 405 residents. (DRRG), and Bhaskar Teta- and traffic congestion. Approximately 100 of the Gupta, who has made a education stories, a variety Other conclusions drawn of features, and the arts and li. Unlike professional polls, Ramu and Tetali invited total number of respondents point of trying to convince entertainment and bulletin from the unscientific sample scientific sampling was not neighborhood groups from belonged to the invited or- the council to stop granting of the community show that board. part of the process. different Dublin communi- ganized groups; the others (See POLL, page 2) Study Finds Market Can Support 185 Room, Upscale Hotel

Independent hotel con- architect Bruce Cousins, the sultants have found that Committee proposed a “dual the 185 room, upscale ho- branded” hotel concept that tel concept is feasible for would incorporate an up- downtown Livermore under scale hotel of 125 rooms the assumptions outlined in and an affiliated hotel with their analysis. 60 suites. According to the The Ad Hoc Advocacy Committee, this study uti- Committee, which describes lized hotel concepts similar itself as a loose-knit group to hotel chains such as AC of Livermore residents with and Residence Inn by Marri- civic, business and cul- ott or Curio and Homewood tural interests, contracted Suites by Hilton. with independent hotel con- In their report, PKF con- sultants PKF to analyze siders increased expected the market feasibility for a hotel demand from recently downtown hotel suitable for proposed major construc- the “Lucky” site in the core tion at Lawrence Livermore of downtown Livermore. National Laboratory, Sandia With the help of local hotel (See STUDY, page 4) Council Makes Changes In Lund Ranch II Plan The Pleasanton City plan approved by the council Council voted to remove at its December 1 meeting five units and relocate a sixth were retained. Photo - Doug Jorgensen in revising the Lund Ranch The December 15 meet- Covered California Certified Enrollment Counselors Erika Alvarez and Alex Garcia are ready to assist those II development, leaving 45 ing vote would have been the needing help enrolling. units. second reading. The vote at the December The 195-acre former 15 meeting was 3 to 1 with Lund Ranch parcel is lo- Karla Brown opposed and cated in the southeast hills Axis Provides Help With Covered California Process Jerry Pentin recused. The of Pleasanton. Thirty-four meeting was adjourned to acres will be developed. By Carol Graham presentation, “Getting Start- nia-related events in the past a Covered California Certi- January 5, 2016. The remaining 161 acres Exactly halfway through ed with Covered CA and year, including presenta- fied Enrollment Counselor Brown continued to sup- will be designated as perma- Covered California's current Medi-Cal,” on December tions to community groups, with Pleasanton-based Axis port a 10-unit plan. nent open space with public open-enrollment period, the 15th. tabling at health fairs, and Community Health. "It’s Mayor Jerry Thorne cited walking trails. Livermore Public Library "We’ve participated in Q & A sessions at local amazing how many people the potential of a referendum At its December 1 meet- hosted a free community about 50 Covered Califor- libraries," said Alex Garcia, or lawsuits based on the pro- ing, the Pleasanton City (See COVERED, page 12) visions in Measure PP if the (See LUND RANCH, page 2) Racing Past Edison: Former Livermore Inventor Has More Patents Than Any Other American A physicist who once doesn’t count Wood's “more of the Laboratory. He is viewed or to comment for worked at Lawrence Liver- than 3,000 inventions await- now an inventor with Intel- this article. more National Laboratory ing perusal by the U.S. Pat- lectual Ventures in Seattle. At LLNL, where he (LLNL) has been awarded ent and Trademark Office,” Bloomberg describes him as joined Edward Teller in more patents than any pre- according to Bloomberg. the “inventor-in-residence” 1972, Wood’s intellectual vious American, surpassing A Wikipedia article cred- at the company, which is a energy and creativity led even the inventiveness of its Wood with 1,094 patents, 15-year-old private partner- him to research in an ex- Thomas Edison. suggesting that nine more ship that operates invest- tremely wide range of fields, The physicist, Lowell patents were credited to him ment funds and describes from strategic defense to Wood, had received 1,085 after the Bloomberg article itself as a “leader in the energy generation, from as- patents as of July, according appeared. business of invention.” trophysics to cancer therapy, to an article by Bloomberg Wood, a geophysicist by Consistent with a long- from computer design to News. That’s one more than training, was a protégé of the standing passion for privacy, interplanetary travel. Edison ever received, and it late Edward Teller, a founder Wood declined to be inter- (See INVENTOR, page 4) A Look Back at the First Four Months of 2015 During the first months of lected students in the Liver- Las Positas College, and election. Johnson, a domi- 2015, controversy continued more, Pleasanton and Dublin the Tri-Valley Regional Oc- nant left-handed pitcher, regarding the Eastside Spe- school districts, would begin cupational Program. received 97.3 percent of cific Plan process in Pleas- in fall 2015. Students would Livermore High School the vote, well over the re- anton and expansion of the receive both college and high graduate Randy Johnson quired 75 percent. A ten- Carnegie off-road vehicle school credits for their work. was elected to the Base- time All-Star, Johnson was park. Both the City of Liver- The collaborative includes ball Hall of Fame. He was celebrated for having one of more and Alameda County the Pleasanton, Livermore chosen for the honor by the the most dominant fastballs Photo - Doug Jorgensen Board of Supervisors took and Dublin school districts, Baseball Writers Associa- in the game. He won five Cy The newest Star Wars film inspired the Williams family a stand in opposition to the Chabot-Las Positas Com- tion of America on the first Young Awards, recorded 303 of Pleasanton to dress up as their favorite characters expansion. In Dublin, ap- munity College District, ballot that he was eligible for to watch the movie. proval of a massive water (continued on page 5) park was questioned in light of the state's continuing drought. Randy Johnson was PET OF THE WEEK elected to the Baseball Hall Inside Dogs don't come much sweeter than eight-year-old Cookie! of Fame. A gentle and loving black Labrador, Cookie has plenty of energy, loves to play fetch, and enjoys walks and the outdoors. SECTION A Editorial...... 4 JANUARY 2015 He’s the perfect family dog: calm, patient, and mature, with The Tri-Valley Edu- Art & Entertainment...... 8 Mailbox...... 4 kindness and happiness mixed in. For a goodness-filled, cational Collaborative an- Bulletin Board...... 10 Roundup...... 3 irresistible treat come for a taste of Cookie at Valley Humane nounced that a middle col- Society, 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton, Tuesday through lege would be located on the Milestones ...... 12 Short Notes...... 9 Saturday from 10am – 4pm. For more information, visit Las Positas College campus. MAIN SECTION Sports...... 7 valleyhumane.org or call (925) 426-8656. Adoption fees on The program, open to se- adult animals are 50% off through December 31. Photo - Valley Classifieds...... 10 Obituaries...... 9 Humane Society/V. Kelly PAGE 2 - The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 Federal Center Deals With Cyber Thefts

The federal government Knobloch passed on this ment offered identity and has set up a center for na- information by email to financial monitoring to those tional laboratory workers Lawrence Livermore Na- affected by the thefts. and retirees who believe tional Laboratory, among The massive records their security clearance in- other national laboratories, thefts are believed to have formation was stolen but where most employees have been carried out by Chinese were not notified by letter security clearances. He hackers seeking informa- of the theft, according to the noted “two separate but tion with which to identify U.S. Department of Energy. related cyber incidents” and perhaps blackmail U.S. The center is operated affecting files at the Office government employees and 24 hours a day by the U.S. of Personnel Management, contractors, according to Office of Personnel Manage- which handles background U.S. security analysts. ment. It can be used not only investigations for those re- The initial reaction of Photos - Doug Jorgensen by those who did not receive quiring clearances. many past and present Labo- Students at Joe Michell K-8 School in Livermore took part in reciting lines from "A a notification letter, but also One incident consisted of ratory employees to the Midsummer Night's Dream." The school piloted the new Shakespeare Associates by those who were notified a “breach of personnel re- thefts was dismay that the education program, "Unlocking Shakespeare: Giving the Children the Keys to Instill and have lost their PIN for cords” affecting 4.2 million Office of Personnel Manage- a Lifelong Appreciation and Understanding of the Bard." log-in purposes, according individuals. The other was ment could have failed to to Kevin Knobloch, DOE’s “the theft of background in- protect such highly sensitive chief of staff. vestigation records” of 21.5 data about them and their The Center’s web address million individuals “whose personal histories. is www.opm.gov/cybersecu- information may have been Continued reaction from rity. It has current informa- compromised.” past and present employees tion concerning the thefts as Now that the Center is has reflected skepticism New Program Expanded to All well as advice about assuring operating, the Department that an agency that did not cyber security, Knobloch of Energy has closed its protect sensitive informa- said. own system for responding tion before would be able Livermore Elementary Schools Those who can’t get to email questions about the to do it now. An informal questions answered online cyber thefts, Knobloch said. survey, however, suggests During the 2014/15 school curriculum that is directly quickly realized from the from the Center can phone Even before the new that most are signing up for year, Livermore Shakespeare aligned to the common core pilot program that there 866-408-4555, 9 a.m. to 9 Center was established, the the identity and financial Festival piloted a 10-week learning outcomes. was major potential in this p.m. eastern time, Monday Office of Personnel Manage- monitoring. program at Joe Michell K-8 Christine Wente, Presi- dynamic, multi-modal cur- through Friday, he added. School. The pilot program dent of the The Wente Foun- riculum,” said Cindy Alba, was funded by the Severns dation’s Board of Directors, Assistant Superintendent Family Foundation. The stated, “We are happy to sup- of Educational Services. program, part of “So Wise port Livermore Shakespeare The program has been de- So Young” an in-school edu- Festival with funds raised livered at four elementary Pleasanton Starts Its cation program, paying for at the 21st annual Liver- schools in the District this teaching artists who come more Valley Wine Auction, fall trimester, with the six re- to the school, and deliver a a wonderful event that raises maining elementary schools Superintendent Search 50-minute lesson once each money for local children’s scheduled to receive the week for 10 weeks. new program in the spring The Pleasanton Unified charities. We’re thrilled that cipals and administrators," County Office of Education, The pilot program was trimester. The new program School District Board has Livermore Shakespeare Fes- said Hintzke. and had experience in the so successful that the Wente has received rave reviews launched the initial part of tival will bring their program A community panel will same job in the San Joaquin Foundation for Arts Educa- from students, teachers and its hiring process to find a to many more Livermore give the board opinions and County Office of Education. tion and the Livermore Val- parents alike, she added. new superintendent. students this year." advice. There also will be Gannon said that in his ley Education Foundation What began as a one- Trustees gave the green The 10-week program community meetings open county job, he has worked provided additional fund- classroom pilot program light to its search firm at builds upon Lois Burdett’s to all, at times and places to with Pleasanton teachers ing to expand the program will now engage all 926 a special meeting Dec. 15 version of A Midsummer be announced. in some district programs. to all second grade class- second grade students in 37 to begin recruiting. The Night’s Dream for Kids. Hintzke said, "The board "Pleasanton has phenomenal rooms throughout the Dis- classrooms by the end of the McPherson & Jacobson “Second graders are learn- really looks forward to this educators," he said. Gannon trict. “Theater is actually school year. David Jonas, firm, which works closely ing new words all the time,” process. We had a lot of new will begin his duties Jan. 11. a perfect way of integrat- President of The Livermore with the California School said Elissa Stebbins, one hires, with awesome addi- The district also remind- ing common core standards Valley Education Foun- Boards Association, was to of the teaching artists who tions to our district. Hiring ed the community that the with the curriculum,” said dation, commented, "The begin last week by posting is delivering the program. the superintendent will make calendar survey will con- Lisa Tromovitch, Produc- Livermore Valley Educa- advertising for the position “They don’t know the differ- it all that much sweeter. We tinue through midnight, Jan. ing Artistic Director of the tion Foundation is delighted on education and job-search ence between a regular hard can't wait to move forward." 4. All school households, Livermore Shakespeare Fes- to partner with Livermore web sites. word and a Shakespeare The successful candidate students from 8th to 12th tival. As districts around the Shakespeare Festival, the Trustees talked about hard word, so they have an would begin his or her duties grades, and school staff are country explore innovative Wente Foundation for Arts what they want to see in a easier time accessing and on July 1, 2016. eligible to take the survey. and engaging curricula that Education in making this candidate. Jamie Hintzke, absorbing the vocabulary,” The district hired a new The survey links can be are aligned to the Common fantastic program available. who was elected president Stebbins continued. public information officer, accessed from the homep- Core State Standards, the 'So Wise So Young' is a great at the board's Dec. 8 meet- The program uses pup- replacing Nicole Steward, age of the PUSD website at Livermore Valley has lever- example of how community ing, told The Independent. pets, acting, imagination who took a job in the Fre- http://www.pleasantonusd. aged the internal resources organizations can come to- "Trustees want to see such and play-based learning to mont school district. net. Community forums will of the community to cre- gether to help enrich our skills as being approach- engage kinetic, auditory Patrick Gannon, the new be established to share the ate an engaging arts-based children's education." able, a good communicator and tactile modalities. “We officer, and his wife are results, which will be pre- in written and spoken form, Dublin residents. He held the sented to the school board likes kids, and is able to position of public informa- on Feb. 23. STUDY work with teams of prin- tion officer for the Alameda (continued from page one) Council approved the Lund roads. The road linking the professional opined that it Ranch II development based new development via Lund was greater than 25%." on a new plan submitted Ranch Road to the Ventana, She noted that his land POLL (continued from page one) by developer Greenbriar Mission Hills area, was has been zoned residential Homes in response to issues relocated to a cul de sac and in the General Plan for more vesting of future resi- Some 52% of all polled split school-and-park site raised at previous council slated for 12 homes, rather over 20 years. It is zoned dential development, is the say that all new construc- to help get a school built meetings. Two roads will than to 19 homes as previ- for 143 units. It is within the only one who has low nega- tion should be "paused for in Jordan Ranch. The city's serve as access points. One ously approved. The goal City limits and both Urban tive ratings, at 19%. Gupta 12 months" to give the city near-gift provides only land. off Lund Ranch Road in was to generate less traffic Growth Boundaries. Green- has the highest positive time to plan for the future. The school district needs Ventana Hills would provide going through the Ventana briar’s submitted plan for rating, at 40%. Some 29% Some 28% want the city to more than $30 million to access to 19 homes. The and Mission Hills neighbor- 50 homes with 88% of the rate Gupta as "average". slow down residential devel- build the school. second, off Sunset Creek hoods. land preserved for publically Combining the "positive" opment and to have the city There also will be a need Lane in Sycamore Heights During the public hear- accessible open space/trails and "average" ratings, which set a growth rate. Fifty-five to house more high school would serve the remaining ing, the council was asked was the EIR’s environmen- offset the "negative" ratings, percent want no more units students, either with an ex- 29 homes. to delay any additional vote tally superior alternative Gupta has 69%. Some 12% vested for growth; 69% want pansion of Dublin High The five units eliminated until there could be dis- and staff interpreted it to be gave him no rating. developers to contribute School, or creation of a satellite campus that would by the council at the De- cussions on the location compliant with Measure PP. Mayor David Haubert, more to school construction. at 43%, was the next high- likely be located in East cember 15 meeting would for the second access road That plan also had the back- In response to another est in the negative column. Dublin. However, the school have been built on slopes along Sunset Creek Lane ing of the Sierra Club. The question, 53% said develop- Haubert, who has supported ers should contribute 100% board won't make any deci- 25% or greater, which is to the Sycamore Heights City Council chose to pass a some of Gupta's motions on of school construction cost; sions until after a consultant prohibited under Measure neighborhood. The Sunset different configuration. growth, has a positive rat- 31% say developers should reports in March with a PP. The argument used to Creek Lane access would Mayor Thorne com- ing of 12%. With Haubert's pick up 75% of the cost, with study of future facilities approve the units in the first be considered by many to be mented at the meeting, "I average rating of 32%, it residents paying 25%. Splits needs and possible solutions. place was that the slopes in violation of Measure PP. really don't want another brings that combination to that would shift 50% or more Poll respondents showed were man-made. However, Resident Alan Roberts PP debate. We all know that 44%, which barely offsets of the school-cost burden to little faith in the school board staff admitted that an argu- noted there is a PP compli- referendums have nothing his negative rating. residents polled low. incumbents to solve the ment could be made that the ance option for the second to do with reality. They are Coucilmembers Doreen In a look at the chances of school housing problems. slopes were natural. access road that needs to be a series of sound bites. I'm Wehrenberg, Don Biddle, passing a local bond, which Respondents were given a Kay Ayala, one of the explored. "Everyone would inclined to remove the units and Kevin Hart all scored the school district wants to choice between retaining organizers of Measure PP, have to band together to and direct staff to make the above 50% in the negative have on the ballot in June school board Incumbents, or removing them. There was noted, "PP is very clear. make it happen. Everyone sixth lot compliant, and to ratings. Wehrenberg's nega- 2016, some 40% said they tive number was 54%, and also a category for "unsure/ Houses are prohibited on would have a better situation move the access road to the would reject it; 13 percent need more information" slopes of 25% or greater. - no lawsuit, no referendum, 12 unit cul de sac." combined positive/average were "no, in general," but concerning the trustee. Removing the lots would less traffic for the neighbor- Councilmember Brown rating was 22%. Biddle's with a need to understand it Dan Cunningham, the eliminate this argument re- hood." said that the Sunset Creek negative was 53%, and better; 24% were undecided. newly elected board presi- garding PP." He referred to the op- Lane access road includes a combined positive/average Some 13% would offer solid dent, drew 8% support, 38% Councilmember Arnie portunity to build the road creek crossing that requires was 28%. Hart had a 52% support; 11% favor it, if "the for removal, and 53% un- Olsen said it is not clear through property owned a culvert and a 10-foot high negative and 30% combined school board were changed, sure. Amy Miller, immediate positive/ average rating. that PP talks about man- by the Sycamore Heights retaining wall all within 100 or they win trust back sig- past president of the board Biddle and Gupta are not made versus natural slopes. Homeowners Association. feet of a ridgeline. There nificantly." had 16% support, 30% op- up for re-election in 2016. The school bond would position, and 54% unsure. In this case, it is not totally The road would comply is no way those are not Hart will be termed out. need approval from 55% of Trustee Megan Rouse clear how the slopes were with Measure PP. However, structures, she argued. She Haubert's two-year mayoral those voting. received 15% support, 26% formed. We can just apply the HOA, the developer, and wanted to continue to look term expires. Wehrenberg, School Superintendent opposition, and 59% unsure. the 25% slope provision city would have to reach an at the road access across the who was appointed, would Stephen Hanke has told au- Trustee Greg Tomlinson's and eliminate the five units agreement to make it pos- HOA property. be up for election. diences that the schools were results showed 9% support, in question. sible. In response to Thorne's Approximately one in caught in a crush between 38% opposition, and 53% A sixth unit was moved to Angela Ramirez-Holmes, comments, Brown stated, three respondents in the the rapid residential growth unsure. a location that would place speaking for Greenbriar, "Referendums are not done survey has lived in Dublin rate (7% one year, and 4% The board's newest trust- it below the 100 ft. level after the meeting stated, lightly. They are done be- for three years or fewer, one- the next), and the failure of ee, Sameer Hakim, was of a ridgeline. Measure PP "There was no new infor- cause a council did not fol- fourth from four to 10 years. the state bond fund to make appointed by the board in prohibits structures within Registered voters were September to replace Sean mation presented after the low the general plan. They any money available for Kenney, who resigned in 100 feet of a ridgeline. PUD’s first reading. There are not about sound bites. 67% of those polled; 23% Dublin school construction. July. Hakim was supported In addition to changing were three professional ex- They are people standing said they are not citizens; The City Council has by 13% in the poll, opposed the number and location perts who indicated that the up for their rights and their and 10% were citizens, but helped meet the need by al- by 17%, and the remaining of units, the council voted area of concern was a natural neighborhoods. not registered voters. Rent- lowing the district to enter 70% were unsure, or needed to move one of the access slope of 25% or less. No ers represented 5% of the into a low-rent lease of what more information about him. respondents. will become a city-owned The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 - PAGE 3 East Bay Regional Park District Adds Parkland LPC Early Childhood Math Program To Receive An Award

The Las Positas College certificates and a textbook (LPC) Early Childhood De- supplier provided discounts velopment-Math Learning on the math material used. Community will receive the To put the program to- "2016 Exemplary Program gether, Early Childhood Award," which recognizes Development faculty invited outstanding community col- LPC's math faculty to visit The East Bay Regional lizard, western burrowing Shoreline and the future and the Park District will lege programs. every Early Childhood De- Park District Board of Di- owl and tri-colored black- Delta Access Regional Rec- pay the remaining 10 per- The Board of Governors velopment classroom and rectors voted unanimously bird, among other species. reation Area. cent (through Measure WW award, sponsored by the use resources such as Cali- Tuesday to purchase 646 In addition to providing The Park District is pur- funds). Foundation for California fornia Preschool Founda- acres of farmland in eastern habitat for special status spe- chasing the property from The Park District will Community Colleges, will tions and children's literature Contra Costa County to ex- cies, the restoration will also the Nunn family, a longtime lease the land back to the be given at the Board of to understand the needs of pand the District’s holdings address persistent flooding Contra Costa County farm- Nunn family for two years, Governors for California the students in the program. in the ecologically sensitive issues in the community of ing family, for its appraised beginning Jan. 31, 2016, Community Colleges meet- The learning community Delta area. Knightsen. fair-market value of $6.1 before moving ahead with ing on Wednesday, January also incorporated campus The property will even- Park District planners million. The East Contra restoration plans in partner- 20, 2016. resources, including tutors tually be restored to tidal also hope the property will Costa County Habitat Con- ship with the Conservancy. "Congratulations to all and registration support, and freshwater wetlands, provide a key trail link - both servancy will provide 90 The property is located who have worked so hard as well as utilizing outside alkali meadow and oak sa- for hikers and bicyclists percent of the purchase price 2 miles north of Brentwood to develop a truly exemplary resources. vanna, providing habitat for as well as kayakers - con- (through state and federal in the community of Knight- program," said Melissa Ko- The program's success is the Swainson’s hawk, giant necting Big Break Regional land conservation grants) sen. rber, mass communications considered a testament to the garter snake, silvery legless program coordinator and faculty, staff and community faculty member who helped partners that have contrib- write the nomination letter. uted to its development and "A huge congratulations and would be easy to replicate at thank you to Diane Belak other colleges and in other and Ana Del Aguila who disciplines. took the lead on the appli- "The impact of the pro- cation, which was approved gram is directly aligned with by the Las Positas College the college's mission. It is Terrorist Law DSRSD Officers Academic Senate. It's a huge inclusive, learning centered The House of Representatives approved the “Track- The Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) honor to work with such an and geared toward further- ing Foreign Fighters in Terrorist Safe Havens Act” (H.R. Board of Directors has elected D.L. (Pat) Howard as amazing program and such ing student goals," said LPC 4239) which was introduced by House Permanent Select President and Richard Halket as Vice President for 2016. dedicated faculty, staff, stu- President, Dr. Barry Russell. Committee on Intelligence members Eric Swalwell The positions rotate annually, per District policy. dents and administrators." "Although the initial goal of (CA-15) and Frank LoBiondo (NJ-02) to ensure greater The five-member Board also includes Directors Edward Since the program's in- the program was thought to oversight by Congress over the intelligence agencies. Duarte, Georgean Vonheeder-Leopold, and Madelyne ception in 2012, 100 per- be student success in math, in reality, the ultimate goal The vote to pass the bill was unanimous. (Maddi) Misheloff. cent of the Early Childhood Development students have of the program may be its “To defeat ISIL, we must be more coordinated than contribution to society by they are. Today, we are vulnerable to ISIL fighters who Transit Planning successfully completed pro- gram math courses with an providing a supportive and travel to terrorist safe havens and then to the United Alameda County Transportation Commission, togeth- A, B, C, Credit or Pass. successful program to edu- States to carry out attacks against innocent Americans. er with transit partners AC Transit and LAVTA/Wheels, cate those who will teach our will host a transportation open house in Dublin. The At its inception, First Five We must know more about them. This bipartisan legisla- Alameda provided financial children." meeting will provide opportunities to learn more about tion makes sure our intelligence community tracks and support for the development In addition to filling out reports to Congress any individual, across the globe, and discuss public transit, major streets and roadways, and implementation of the the required application, an who travels to terrorist safe havens. To best understand trucking, goods movement and shipping. Early Childhood Develop- endorsement from President the threats to Americans, we must know who is fight- The meeting will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sun., ment-Math Learning Com- Russell and a nominating ing and/or training in terrorist hot zones and capable of Jan. 10 at the Dublin Library, 200 Civic Plaza, Dublin. munity. Local community letter were included in the coming to the United States.,” said House CIA Subcom- Alameda CTC is in the process of updating the early childhood programs award nomination packet. mittee senior Democrat Swalwell. Countywide Transportation Plan. helped teachers within their Las Positas College is As directed by the legislation, every six months the The 2016 update to the Countywide Transportation programs complete math located in Livermore. Director of National Intelligence (DNI) shall submit to Plan (CTP) will develop a performance-based, long- the appropriate congressional committees a report on range plan through 2040 for Alameda County's multi- foreign fighter flows to and from terrorist safe havens modal transportation network. abroad. The reports would be categorized as classi- LVPAC 'Giving Tuesday' fied and consistent with the protection of intelligence DSRSD Tours sources and methods. An unclassified report would also Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) invites Donations Were Way Up be provided. the public to see how clean water and green energy are Swalwell and LoBiondo’s legislation instructs the recovered from wastewater during a tour of its treatment Thanks to the dona- with 100 percent giving DNI to submit a report on each terrorist safe haven and plant on Wed., Jan. 13, at 1:00 p.m. The free tour lasts tions received during the from the full-time staff. to include the following: 60 to 90 minutes. It is open to adults, teens, and children recent “Giving Tuesday” “The results from Giv- • Total number of foreign fighters who have traveled ages seven and up. The facility is located at 7399 John- campaign, Christmas came ing Tuesday far exceeded or are suspected of having traveled to the terrorist safe son Drive in Pleasanton. Reservations are required: visit early for the Livermore Val- my expectations, and has haven since 2011, including the countries of origin of www.dsrsd.com/tour or call 925-846-4565. ley Performing Arts Center capped off a very success- such foreign fighters; Dublin, Pleasanton, and southern San Ramon produce (LVPAC). During a single ful year for LVPAC on all • Total number of United States citizens present in 10 million gallons of wastewater every day that must day, LVPAC raised $145,660 fronts,” says Director of the terrorist safe haven; and, be collected, purified, disinfected, and then returned for the Bankhead Theater, Development, Chris Carter. • Total number of foreign fighters who have left the to the environment or reused. Increasingly, wastewater the Bothwell Arts Center and “Support for the arts like this terrorist safe haven or whose whereabouts are unknown. treatment is a resource recovery operation that produces related program. Donations is overwhelmingly positive, recycled water for irrigation and construction and biofuel were up 3,935 percent over and will ensure that we will New Permit Portal to generate heat and electricity. the previous year. be around for a long, long time.” Alameda County launched its new Permit Portal, a The tour highlights all these processes, as well as Not only is this a record career opportunities in the water industry. for LVPAC, but the gen- Carter added, “With so one-stop-shop for business licenses and permits. The many choices on “Giving online guide helps residents through the permitting erosity also propelled the campaign to hit three ad- Tuesday," the team here process to complete major property upgrades, start Administrator Honored would like to thank every- businesses or undertake many other tasks regulated by Alameda County Administrator Susan S. Muranishi ditional milestones. For the first time during “Giving one who participated and local government. has been selected by a statewide association of her peers Tuesday,” LVPAC received supported the arts in Liver- The Portal, available at permit.acgov.org, simplifies to receive the “Inaugural Annual County Administrator/ pledges from three matching more.” LVPAC leveraged the permit process by allowing individuals and business County Executive Distinguished Service Award.’’ donors: the first anonymous electronic media to spread operators to search based on address or need. Users can Muranishi, Alameda County’s Chief Executive since donor matched everything, the word to current and po- also browse permits by category and view the most December 1995, was chosen by the County Adminis- the second anonymous donor tential donors alike. popular permits issued by Alameda County and other trative Officers Association of California (CAOAC) as As with most performing matched up to $15,000 and local jurisdictions. the Distinguished Service Award’s first-ever recipient arts centers, LVPAC relies the third, the Watkins family The new Permit Portal benefits from an unusual due to her exemplary work, status as a role model for on the support of the public of Livermore Pleasanton, amount of cross-agency collaboration. Not only did other county executives and leadership in championing to fill the gap between box also agreed to match all gifts employees from several Alameda County departments innovative programs that improve the delivery of public office income and the cost up to $15,000. of programs and artists they contribute to its design, but the portal provides infor- services. Additionally, this “Giving mation about all locally issued permits – not just those CAOAC presented the award to Muranishi earlier present. 40% of LVPAC’s Tuesday” brought in 41 new total budget comes through required by Alameda County, but by cities and special this month at the annual meeting of the California State members to LVPAC, making districts as well. Association of Counties (CSAC). giving. the total number over 800 for Theater ticket office at The Permit Portal results from a concerted long-term the first time in the organiza- effort by Alameda County to find innovative new ways (925) 373-6800, online at Building Official Named tion’s history. Finally, “Giv- www.lvpac.org, or via the to deliver traditional government services that enhance Dennis Corbett was recently named as Chief Building ing Tuesday” was supported new LVPAC mobile app. access and efficiency. Official for the City of Pleasanton, where he has served The Permit Portal also is the first new tool to result in a variety of capacities since 2008. from Alameda County’s groundbreaking partnership The Chief Building Official manages the Building Di- with technology-giant Google through company’s Gov- vision within the Community Development Department at Terra Mia ernment Innovation Labs project earlier this year. The and is responsible for providing plan reviews and field New Year’s Eve project was designed to bring to government the same inspections on all structures within City limits to ensure Join us to ring in the “moonshot’’ thinking that Google brings to its constant that all buildings are safe, accessible and sustainable, as New Year this Dec. 31st! search for new innovations – from high-altitude Wi-Fi well as in compliance with local and state laws. balloons to driverless cars – that just might change the Corbett has an extensive background in the building Special 4-course dinner menu 4:00-9:00pm way we live. and construction area and has worked in and around the Book and prepay by Dec. 15 & Receive 10% OFF! Google developers who assisted in the six-week Bay Area for the better part of the past two decades. Those who dine with us at our last seating between partnership with Alameda County found the portal “Coming from a background of construction, I know 7pm-9pm are invited to ring in the New Year with us! to be exactly the type of “10X’’ idea that government the effort it takes to build a project and build it well from Complimentary party favors, music, dancing and a prosecco agencies should be pursuing to enhance services in the the ground up,” said Corbett, adding. “I take great pride in toast along with traditional cotechino and lentils at midnight! Technology Age. helping people make their construction projects a reality." Corbett replaces George Thomas, who retired as Chief Music and dancing Building Official in June of this year. featuring DJ Dave Brown from 10:30 until... Inquire about our special VIP Lounge and Bottle Service

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(925) 371-5671 Info & RSVP, Call 925-456-3333 [email protected] Terra Mia Ristorante Italiano License #601931 4040 East Avenue, Livermore terramialivermore.com PAGE 4 - The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 EDITORIALS Los Alamos Contract Revised Plan To Be Rebid After 2017 We are pleased that in response to comments, The contract for operat- of its contract, according to at not meeting NNSA crite- No detail is available yet the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District ing Los Alamos National McMillan’s memo, which ria for winning the one year on that extension, McMillan (LARPD) board included trails and geographic Laboratory will be rebid af- was sent to Laboratory staff merit-based contract exten- said in his memo. areas in its updated master plan. ter 2017 because of federal and obtained by local news sion, known as an award He will hold an all-em- dissatisfaction with some media. extension. ployee meeting in the New In reviewing the draft, a glaring error was parts of that Laboratory’s Performance reviews are The decision to rebid the Year to “hear and address… pointed out by several board members as well as job performance, according conducted by the National contract comes a year after thoughts, concerns and ques- members of the public. The proposed master plan to a memorandum by Los Nuclear Security Admin- NNSA awarded only 10 per- tions” about the Laboratory, failed to include completed trails and geographic Alamos director Charles istration, the semi-autono- cent of a potential $63 mil- he said. “Los Alamos will McMillan. mous arm of the U.S. De- lion management fee to Los continue to have a valued areas of interest. Missing were such things as the The current contract has partment of Energy that Alamos National Security role in protecting the nation completed trail along Jack London Boulevard. been held by Los Alamos deals with nuclear weapons following a series of safety and the world.” Geographic destinations not identified included National Security LLC, a and related defense technol- and operations problems. Los Alamos National Se- Doolan Canyon, Cedar Mountain, and Tesla/ for-profit consortium, since ogy. The absence of an award curity, LLC (LANS), man- 2006. Prior to that, the In a series of reviews just extension does not mean the ages Los Alamos. LANS Carnegie Park. University of California completed, Los Alamos got contract will be terminated includes Bechtel National, While these amenities won't be managed or had been the sole contrac- “very good” or “excellent” abruptly after 2017. Creat- University of California, owned by LARPD, the trails that the district plans tor since the Laboratory scores in four areas related ing a new contract for such BWXT Government Group, Inc., and URS, an AECOM will provide access to them. As a board member was created as a top secret to science, engineering and a complex facility will be an atomic bomb research site its national defense mission, expensive, time-consuming company. Lawrence Liver- pointed out, people should be aware of where during World War II. but only “satisfactory” in process. NNSA has indi- more National Security trails are going, as well as opportunities for parks. During 2015, Labora- operations and infrastruc- cated that it will extend the manages LLNL, it is com- tory performance had to be existing contract administra- prised of Bechtel National, Bob Coomber summed up the situation nicely, ture, McMillan reported. University of California, "This plan is about what happens down the road. judged better than “satisfac- Leadership was judged to tively as needed to keep the tory” in six categories in Laboratory operating while Babcock and Wilcox, the We should show potential opportunities even if be “good.” Washington Division of order for it to win a merit- McMillan said that he the framework for a future they are not imminent." URS Corporation, and Bat- based one year extension was “deeply disappointed” contract is developed. telle Given the level of interest in trails and parks expressed by residents of the district, including possibilities for future recreation is important. Developer Pleads No Contest to Fraud Understanding and Good Will A Dublin land developer following penalties: comply with environmental receipts to the City of Dub- In a season of peace and good will, there are pleaded no contest last Fri- One year of Federal and regulations and laws involv- lin, totaling more than $3.2 parts of the world where they are in short supply. day to charges of submitting State probation, including ing threatened and endan- million. No payments were An American related to a Livermore resident fraudulent documents to four months' home confine- gered species," said Warden actually made for the speci- the City of Dublin in an at- Nicole Kozicki, the CDFW fied development. teaches in a university in Kabul, Afghanistan. ment. tempt to avoid development A $350,000 fine payable wildlife officer in charge of The California Tiger She offered the following viewpoint after read- requirements to protect two to the Alameda County Fish the investigation. "This was Salamander is listed as ing comments online regarding the Middle East: state-protected species, the and Game Commission. a long and complicated case threatened under the Cali- As for life in Kabul, it continues - some days California Tiger Salamander A $300,000 fine payable that had a great outcome for fornia Endangered Species and the Red-legged frog. to the CDFW wildlife pol- a special California animal Act (CESA), which pro- good, some days not so good. The incident where After a two-and-a-half lution and wildlife preserva- species." vides protection for native the Hazaras were slaughtered in early December year investigation, attor- tion funds. While developing land species of wildlife, plants hit home on campus. One young female student neys for Yuen Liam Tong Preserving 107 acres of in Dublin in 2012, Tong was and habitats that are facing (aka James Tong), owner of land in Contra Costa Coun- required to purchase offsite decline and possible extinc- disappeared the afternoon the news broke. She Charter Properties, reached ty known as the "Brown mitigation credits to counter tion. The Red-legged frog is had just learned that the young girl whose head a plea arrangement with Ranch" in a conservation the effects of building in listed as threatened under the was cut off was her niece. It seems there is always State Attorney General's Of- easement. habitat that was home to federal Endangered Species fice and the California De- native endangered species. Act. Conservation banks a connection somewhere on campus with a rela- "CDFW is happy to work partment of Fish and Wild- with developers around the Tong committed forgery are permanently protected tive or a friend. life (CDFW). The terms of state to build new homes by submitting fraudulent lands that provide shelter to So it goes. Many Afghans have been touched the agreement include the and business, but they must conservation bank payment endangered, threatened at by this insanity. They want the conflict to go at-risk species. away more than anyone. The labels that much of the Western press and people have put on them INVENTOR (continued from page one) are undeserved. A small group has given the whole nation a bad name. This small percentage Those who knew him can paper on the potential sively cautious. in 2003. The Bloomberg remember a quick sense of of using lasers to generate Most controversially, he article says he claims to have does not represent the nation of people strug- humor, matching Teller’s. electrical power from small became deeply involved in known all along that the stra- gling to improve the future so their children have At times, he was a practical thermonuclear explosions, strategic defense research, tegic defense work would something to look forward to; who desperately joker who seemed more like Wood is credited with help- supporting the Reagan Ad- never be practical; it bank- want a country to be proud of and are fighting a member of a college frater- ing to establish the concept ministration effort to try rupted the old Soviet Union nity than a serious research of laser fusion. As a field to create an impregnable as intended, and “the Evil for their lives and dignity. scientist. Stories circulated of research today, however, shield against incoming mis- Empire is now no more,” he Afghans are a proud people and wish they of him racing cars around this is focused much more siles using rockets, lasers or is quoted as saying. could throw off the oppression of these terror- the mile-square Labora- on nuclear weapons studies other means. The program He makes no apologies tory site late at night, and than on electrical energy. became known informally for his national defense work ists, but unfortunately, they can’t do it alone. If hiding in car trunks to pass He also led early small- and sometimes pejoratively at LLNL, although he has people can’t see them as they are, at least don’t security checks unnoticed scale work on the use of as Star Wars. turned to less controversial hate them. even though he carried an lasers to select and separate Along with mentor Ed- inventions at Intellectual authorized ID badge. uranium isotopes. ward Teller, who for decades Ventures. The Bloomberg These comments reflect those made by Tri- His association with Some of his other efforts, had been a lightning rod article cited his work on a Valley Interfaith Interconnect, which noted re- Teller was thought to have undertaken at various times for anti-weapons criticism, system for preserving vac- cently that when a radical group attacks innocent protected him against seri- in his career at LLNL, in- Wood and others were ac- cines, a laser-based “fence” civilians, moderate, well-meaning persons of the ous repercussions from such clude the following: cused in the late 1980s of for stopping disease-carry- hi-jinks, while his brilliance He tried unsuccessfully politicking as much as work- ing mosquitoes, a way to Muslin faith are marginalized. Many people do and forceful personality to develop a novel cancer ing on science. reduce collisions between not distinguish between moderate Muslins and made him an able defender therapy by bonding tritium, Criticism came from cars, geoengineering in the extremists. Interfaith Interconnect holds regular of his own research pro- or radioactive hydrogen, to inside as well as outside atmosphere to reduce the ef- grams when it came time the antibiotic tetracycline, of LLNL aimed at Wood. fects of a warming climate, a meetings in the valley to provide opportunities to to stand up to critics and which was known to con- The turmoil that followed means to reduce concussions learn about and to celebrate the differences and compete for funds. centrate in tumors. The goal extended beyond scientific in young football players, similarities of diverse cultures and traditions. He was a superb recruiter was to use the antibiotic to findings, involving charges and more. of brilliant graduate students deliver a tumor-killing radia- of misreported results on X- Company co-founder These efforts are important in helping to cre- attracted to the idea of work- tion dose. ray laser research, as well as Nathan Myhrvold is said to ate understanding and good will. We hope more ing on major national prob- He worked with astro- of retaliation and restrictions believe that half or more of people will embrace this message. lems at a laboratory where physicists to develop a con- on free speech. Wood's activities “are trying they could have access to cept for harnessing postu- Wood worked on other to help the least fortunate classified national security lated mini-black holes in strategic defense efforts as people on earth…His ideas information and seemingly space in order to generate well, including improved have already saved tons of limitless resources. electrical energy that could communication with re- lives and have the poten- In the 1980s, his gradu- be beamed to Earth via mi- mote submarines that could tial of saving enormously ate students could find a crowaves. provide “pop up” anti-mis- more.” STUDY comfortably university-like He worked on bold con- sile defense, and Brilliant Both Myhrvold and (continued from page one) home in his programs, since cepts for settling Mars rap- Pebbles, a satellite system Wood have a continuing National Laboratory and a vision is that the size and Wood’s personal habits tend- idly and on a limited budget, intended to defend against connection with the Tri- new wedding and event quality project should en- ed toward late night work fu- making enemies at NASA by warheads once they reached Valley, helping to recruit and center in Livermore wine hance existing First Street eled by pizza and soft drinks. ridiculing that agency’s ap- space. retain graduate science stu- country. The final report businesses, meet the needs As a co-author of the proach to space exploration Wood left the Laboratory dents for Livermore-based from PKF shows that based of the wineries, labs, cor- seminal Scientific Ameri- as "brain dead" and exces- not long after Teller’s death, Hertz Foundation’s elite on the assumptions utilized porations and citizens, and fellowship program. in their analysis, the market create a true civic center that can support such a project will thrive for many years. in Livermore. They have The city has scheduled determined that the net op- Community discussions on erating income generated the proposals they receive by a 185 room upscale, dual for hotels and residential (Opinions voiced in let- block, just hanging out, not you are hurting people when war zone in Iraq, you find branded hotel is sufficient developments on the down- ters published in Mailbox bothering a soul. I feel so you steal. yourself suffering from the to generate a financially town property on Feb. 8 are those of the author and sad and hope that some one inability to detach and shut feasible project, assuming and 9. Meetings will begin do not necessarily reflect needed that bike more than down the gruesome visuals city participation similar to at 7 p.m. in the city council Veterans Benefits the opinion of The Inde- my heartbroken son. We Shauna L. Ketcham of your brethren in arms what might be required for chambers. The public can pendent. Letter Policy: The lost our other son three and that lost their lives, limbs, other downtown Livermore provide input at the meet- Ketcham, a resident of Independent will not publish a half years ago in a tragic Livermore, is a student at and sanity. You contact your hotel applications. The Ad ings. anonymous letters, nor will skateboarding accident and case worker at the VA and Hoc Committee is making The Committee chair Bill USC School of Social Work it publish letters without we are still surviving emo- You’re sitting in the doc- they state that you must this report available to the Dunlop, states, “We are pro- names. Abusive letters may tionally. wait TWO weeks at the City as well as to interested viding this interesting con- tor's office with a mild case be rejected or edited. Fre- After a few days without of the sniffles and find your- absolute earliest to see a developers; it can be found cept to be explored by the quent letter writers may his bike, my son said to me, VA physician in a location on VibrantLivermore.com. city, believing that it would self cursing the fact that your have publication of their let- "Mom, they didn't just steal chosen primary care doctor that is located more then 2 According to the Ad Hoc be an excellent development ters delayed. Letters should my bike, they took away hours away from you with Advocacy Committee, their for Downtown Livermore.” at Kaiser is running a mere be submitted by e-mail to one of the only things that 30 minutes behind on their a overworked doctor who is editmail@compuserve. makes me happy." So to the appointments for the day. chosen for you. com.) people who stole my son's Thus making the appoint- In that two and a half bike, I hope you have had a ment scheduled earlier that week wait time that same Stealing Hurts more tragic life than we have day at 1:00pm stretch to an veteran took his own life while waiting to receive his (INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.) Katie Strube and that you really needed unacceptable time of 1:30. Publisher: Joan Kinney Seppala Livermore that bike. If not, please do You walk up to the recep- promised VA benefits and Associate Publisher: David T. Lowell care upon his entry and exit Editor: Janet Armantrout Last Saturday night the right thing and return it. tionist and demand that they of the US Army. His benefits The Independent (USPS 300) is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing (12/12), about 9:30 pm, Thank you. take you back immediately Company, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Mailed at Periodical Postage claim with the VA hadn’t Prices at the Livermore Post Office and additional entry office: Pleasanton, CA 94566-9998. my 14-year old son's BMX as you pay enough on your The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www.independentnews.com to sign up bicycle was stolen off of our P.S. One of his friend's insurance and deem yourself even been processed yet. and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Independent, 2250 One would believe that First St., Livermore, CA 94550. lawn (near the porch!). He bikes was stolen, too, and more worthy than the other this scenario is an isolated Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700 and two friends were rid- his dad died several years patients. during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212. case and although it has been Editorial information may be submitted by [email protected]. ing back and forth to each ago in a traffic accident. You Upon your arrival home www.independentnews.com other's houses around the just don't know how much from your tour in an active (More MAILBOX, page 10) The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 - PAGE 5 Dublin Stands Firm on Schaefer Estate Lots A bid to build 19 homes The current general plan for the GPA said that the lots on 7 acres, plus 10 against the motion, said that 2012, and the $250,000 was on large lots in Schaefer designation for the 17 acres estate designation should acres of open space, the lots the 19 homes would be of to be the second payment, Ranch in the West Dublin is six large estate residential be kept, because Dublin has "would have been crammed large size on large lots. The with approval of the GPA hills was rejected by the City lots. only one other site suitable in, and you lose that charm," community benefit would amendment, if it had been Council on a 4-1 vote. A representative of Dis- for custom estates. Although said Gupta. He added that be a $250,000 donation to approved last week. Don Biddle was the lone covery Builders said that Discovery may not build the "Schaefer is beautiful, a gem the Dublin Heritage Park Discovery has given the "no" vote on the motion to his firm did not find any houses, the lots should be hidden from the freeway." and Museums. Discovery city other negotiated com- deny the request. market for estate lots. The there for people to buy lots Councilmember Kevin Builders helped establish munity benefits for the total Developer Discovery firm is a production builder, and hire custom builders, Hart called the potential for the park and museums with 400-plus home subdivi- Builders asked the council and would not want to build said councilmembers. the estate lot area "Alamo a $1.5 million contribution sion on 500 acres. The ben- at its Dec. 15 meeting for estate lots. The market is Vice-mayor Abe Gupta West." Councilmember Do- earlier in the development efits include $1.55 million a General Plan Amendment there right now for some- said, "Dublin has all levels reen Wehrenberg said she of the Schaefer Ranch. to build the School of the (GPA) to build the homes what smaller, but still large, of housing stock. You can checked Pleasanton on a By earlier agreement, Imagination, $400,000 for on 7 acres, with 10 acres set lots and house sizes, with the start with a condo, and re- major real estate web site, Discovery Builders said an East Bay Regional Park aside for open space. Most homes at least 3500 square tire to an estate home -- or and learned that there were it would donate $750,000 District staging area and trail of the open space would be feet and up, said the repre- earlier, if you are successful no estate residences for sale more for the park and mu- system, and $3.1 million for hills. A special district would sentative. in business." there, creating a market. seums. Some $500,000 was the Schaefer Ranch Com- be formed to pay for erosion The four coucilmembers If the council were to Don Biddle, who voted contributed in September munity Park. prevention. who voted down the request approve the 19 requested Events in Downtown Pleasanton Will Be Non Smoking Smoking will be banned an addiction. People can't Mayor Jerry Thorne designated smoking units. ing neighbor. The resident increase in garbage rates. at all special events in just walk away from the agreed. He said as an ex- Outdoors, smoking would has asked if the City would Pleasanton Garbage Ser- downtown Pleasanton. habit. When it comes to smoker, he opposes smok- not be allowed on patios or consider a regulation prohib- vice had requested a 3.87% Last week, the city coun- downtown events, I have ing. He too wanted to con- in common areas. iting smoking within twenty across the board increase. cil approved an ordinance no problem with a ban on sider smoking regulations The issue with hous- feet of the property line in a The increase covers labor that requires events to be smoking at all events." He in multi-famliy housing. ing relates to second hand single family neighborhood costs, landfill disposal costs smoke free. The council added that he would like to "People who smoke have to smoke. Condos and town- so that an adjacent neighbor and an increase in the con- also directed city staff to see an ordinance come back realize that they are expos- homes, as well as apart- will not be impacted by sumer price index. come back with options to that addresses smoking in ing people to toxic chemi- ments could have more of a second hand smoke drifting However, staff recom- regulate smoking in multi- multi-family and single fam- cals. Eventually, we need problem with second hand across property lines. mended that the council not family housing, as well as ily units. to get rid of smoking in smoke. The problem is the The city bans smoking increase the cost of service single family neighbor- Councilmember Kathy this country. We can't stop same with rental and owner- in senior housing. Council- for 35 gallon carts. The hoods. Narum was concerned with a people from smoking, but ship units. member Karla Brown said, entire increase would be for The vote was unanimous. ban at all downtown events. we can make it difficult." In Dublin, single family "It's interesting that the city 96-gallon carts, a 9.77% in- The Pleasanton Down- She wanted to ask the PDA Assistant city attorney homeowners can request a protects senior health, yet crease. The change will add town Association (PDA) for its opinion. Larissa Seto noted that other smoking ban based on "pri- a two-year-old living in a $2.97 a month to the service had supported an ordinance Pentin said, "If you cities have implemented vate nuisance." Individuals multi-family development for the larger carts. that would have permitted smoke, you can walk out of smoking regulations for would have to pursue it. is not protected." VICE MAYOR sponsors of an event to the closed area and smoke. multi-family housing. In Seto explained that the She pointed out that many Kathy Narum was ap- elect whether or not to allow I'm adamant about this. I'm Dublin, projects with 16 or problem in a single family multi-family developments pointed to serve as vice smoking. not asking for a ban 365 days more multi-family units are neighborhood was described in Dublin are 100% smoke mayor for 2916. She re- Councilmember Jerry a year, just saying that when required to provide 75% as a neighbor who smokes in free. The issues include both places Karla Brown. The Pentin commented, "I am it comes to events, we can as non-smoking. She sug- his or her backyard, result- health and insurance cost. vice mayor is chosen by the for a smoke free Pleasan- ask people not to smoke." gested that the city look at ing in second hand smoke GARBAGE RATES mayor. ton. However, smoking is rental units only to allow impacting the non- smok- The council approved an LOOK BACK AT 2015 (continued from page one)

Photo - Doug Jorgensen Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre presented a production of Photo - Doug Jorgensen "Les Misérables" to rave reviews. Melissa Santala, Ph.D. talks to some of the students about her career with teens during "Dinner with a wins and holds the record for the best strikeout rate ever Scientist." Women working in STEAM fields (science, (10.6 per nine innings.) His 300th win came as a member technology, engineering, art and mathematics) spoke to of the Giants in 2009. teens at Amador Valley High School during the dinner The Pleasanton City Council approved the final version Photo - Doug Jorgensen held on April 21. of the city's Housing Element that will guide development Action on the field for the 7th annual Super Saturday over the next eight years. In its housing element, the city Dads Flag Football game between Croce and Altamont must show that enough land is available to meet Regional ballot in the race for the State Senate 7th District special Creek Elementary Schools was fast and furious. The primary on March 17. Democrats include Susan Bonilla, Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) numbers. The city does annual game was held January 31. not have to build the housing. No new zoning occurred as Joan Buchanan, Steve Glazer, and Terry Kremin. Michaela Hertle was the lone Republican. part of the update, since the city had met its RHNA numbers Regional Park. through 2023. Four former Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory FEBRUARY 2015 U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (CA-15) was sworn (LLNL) scientists and engineers were inducted into the into the 114th U.S. Congress on the House Floor for his With the withdrawal of Republican Michaela Hertle, the Laboratory’s Entrepreneurs’ Hall of Fame (EHF). This race for the California 7th District Senate Seat narrowed second term in office. He was later ceremonially sworn year's inductees were Martin Casado, Bill Colston, Fred into the office in front of family, friends, and East Bay con- down to four Democrats. She endorsed Democrat Steve Milanovich, and David Tuckerman. The group of former Glazer. Hertle withdrew stating, "Under the current circum- stituents in the Rayburn Gold Room by Homeland Security Lab researchers, who represent the second class of inductees Secretary Jeh Johnson, who administered the oath of office. stances, the chance of my winning this race is slim, at best." into the Lab’s EHF, was honored for developing technolo- Amador Friends of Music hosted the 40th Annual Cam- The Livermore City Council heard a pitch for creation gies during or after their Lab careers that created major of a long range plan to capture more of what is seen as a pana Jazz Festival at Amador Valley High School (AVHS). economic impacts and spawned important new companies. The event featured middle and high school big bands and lucrative market in visitors to the area. Doreen Wehrenberg was appointed to serve on the In a unanimous vote by his fellow Board members, Su- combos from more than 20 schools across northern Califor- Dublin City Council, filling the seat vacated when David nia. The Campana Jazz Festival is named in honor of Jim pervisor Scott Haggerty was elected to serve as President Haubert was elected mayor in November. The vote was of the Alameda County Board of Supervisors for the next Campana, AVHS Music Director from 1959 through 1979. not unanimous, with Abe Gupta voting "no." He noted that Chabot-Las Positas Community College District trustees two years. Supervisor Wilma Chan (D-3) was elected to she did not take a stand on Measure T, the urban growth serve as Vice-President. voted to appoint Will Macedo of Livermore as the successor boundary initiative approved by voters. Wehrenberg served to Barbara Mertes, who resigned in December. Macedo's Ruben Torres was chosen to serve as Fire Chief for the eight years on the planning commission. She finished third Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department starting February selection was announced in a press release as a unanimous in the 2012 City Council race. The original field of candi- choice of the six-member board. However, the first vote 17, 2015. Torres brought 29 years of fire service experience dates for the open council seat consisted of nine women to the position, including nine years at his most recent post taken, on a written ballot tallied and read by board staff and three men. secretary Bev Bailey, showed that Macedo received four as interim Fire Chief and senior command for the City of The Livermore Heritage Guild agreed to take over San Jose Fire Department. votes, and Don Milanese, a retired administrator from Las management and maintenance of the historic Hagemann Posits College, two votes. Trustee Marshall Mitzman moved California Governor Brown set the dates for a special Farm. Up to $42,000 was allocated by the city council to the election to fill the State 7th Senate District. The seat opened to have the vote made unanimous, and the board agreed. Heritage Guild to pay for oversight, repairs, maintenance The Pleasanton City Council modified its growth up with the swearing in of Mark DeSaulnier to the House and insurance on the property. The farm represents the re- of Representatives. Susan Bonilla, D-Concord, Joan Bu- management policy to reflect the state's concerns that the maining acres of the original 60,000-acre Rancho el Valle de ordinance may place constraints on the construction of af- chanan, D-Alamo, and Mark Meuser, R-Walnut Creek all San Jose land grant awarded in 1839. The original buildings announced their intent to pursue the open seat. A primary fordable housing. The growth management policy allows include a home built in 1870, horse barn, blacksmith build- for 235 units to be built each year over the next eight years. election was scheduled for March with a run-off in May, ing and a chicken house. They convey modest farmstead if necessary. The first change approved by the council uses the planned life as it existed from the mid-1800s through the mid-1900s. unit development (PUD) or project approval process to The Taylor Family Foundation (TTFF), founded in 1990 The Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District by Barry and Elaine Taylor, kicked off a year-long celebra- track the annual growth unit allocation, rather than basing Board of Trustees voted to sell the vacant Sonoma School it on the number of building permits issued. The second tion to commemorate its 25th Anniversary and 15th year at site, property located just south of Granada High School Camp Arroyo. TTFF has served children with developmen- alteration to the ordinance allows the zoning administrator on Sonoma Avenue. Proceeds from the sale, projected to approve very small projects and grant growth manage- tal disabilities, life-threatening and chronic illnesses, such to be in excess of $13 million, will be deposited into the as brain tumors, autism, heart disease, diabetes, pediatric ment at the same time. This category generally includes district's building fund. The fund may be used for facility single family custom homes. The council allocated 10 units cancers, skin disease, asthma, burn survivors and pediatric and maintenance projects. A Property Advisory Board had HIV/AIDS. Each year, 3,000 children are provided a camp per year for this purpose. The most controversial change recommended the sale. would require the council to grant growth management for experience at no cost. A concept plan for a dog park to be built on the Bernal The Pleasanton Unified School District Board canceled affordable units, even if there were no units available for Property was approved by the Pleasanton City Council. The allocation in that cycle. plans to implement a "Modified Lite" change in the school 1.4 acre park will be located adjacent to the Marilyn Kane calendar year. The vote was unanimous. The decision can- The Amador Valley High School competition civics Trail on the northwestern edge of the Bernal property. It will team won state honors again this year. It would go on to the celed both a transitional calendar, which was to begin in include an area for small dogs, as well as one for larger dogs. 2015/16, and the final "Modified Lite" version, which was national finals in Washington D.C. in April. Dublin continued to maintain an A average, and remained "Livermore is going to the dogs," quipped General scheduled for 2016/17. The board had been criticized when among the state's top 10 cities in California for smoking con- it voted for the new calendar last year. Manager Tim Barry. His comment introduced a report on trol legislation in the annual American Lung Association's dog parks in Livermore presented to the Livermore Area The Livermore Area Recreation and Park District report cards. Livermore, Pleasanton and the unincorporated (LARPD) board voted to accept the grant deed of property Recreation and Park District Board. With its seven dog area of Alameda County continued at a D-level pace. parks, Livermore offers more than any other city in the for the Bobba Property from the Tri-Valley Conservancy The response from the community made it possible for all (TVC). The land, adjacent to Sycamore Grove Park, became area. Livermore dog parks range in size from one-third of students at Jackson Avenue School in Livermore to receive an acre to 4.2 acres. part of the park. Transfer of ownership of the 72.33 acres a book at the school's annual book fair Many low-income of land to LARPD was several years in the making. The The Alameda County Fair was once again recognized students, who would not otherwise have been able to buy with multiple, year-end awards in a variety of categories District asked TVC to negotiate, assist in finding funding a book, received one. Donations came from as far away as and partially fund the property acquisition from the Bobba by two top industry organizations, the Western Fairs As- Amsterdam. sociation (WFA) and International Association of Fairs and family. Obtaining this property allows for completion Four Democrats and one Republican qualified for the of a long-awaited regional trail connection to Del Valle (continued on page 8) PAGE 6 - The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 - PAGE 7

Granada High School Cross Country athletes finishing the 100 Mile Relay to support Camp Okizu

100 Mile Relay Photo - Doug Jorgensen for Camp Okizu Pictured is the Granada High School soccer team. Starting in the dark of 5 a.m. and finishing in the dark of 6 p.m. on December 19th, 30 members of the Granada High School Cross Country Team ran a 100 mile relay to Granada High School Soccer Team raise money for Camp Okizu, a camp for children whose lives have been affected by cancer. Five teams ran 100 miles from Livermore through Tracy, Continues to Answert Call for Gifts Danville, Moraga, Castro Valley, and Pleasanton with each participant covering anywhere from 10 to 25 miles through- By Carol Graham Director Christine Dillman. "Our holiday program serves out the day. Parent drivers and cyclists trailed the teams It started five years ago, when a group of teenagers made many families who otherwise would not be able to afford making sure all the athletes were safe and accounted for. sure a little boy would not have to sacrifice his Christmas gifts and a holiday dinner. It fosters independence and em- The runners experienced the elements including the dark, presents. powerment; families choose their own gifts, cook their own the cold, a brief shower of rain, and then ample sunshine "I was volunteering at Tri-Valley Haven when a lady food, and develop their own holiday traditions." and faced the hardships of distance running, but everyone came in who had missed gift-donation signups because This is the soccer team's 5th year and TVH's 17th year pushed on or motivated others to finish. she'd been in the hospital," said Sharon White. "I took her of helping local families in economic need. The Granada team captains who organized the event name and said I would figure out a way to get gifts for her "We are neighbors helping neighbors," said Dillman. said, "We are so proud of the dedication of the cross country sons. Her 7-year-old had said he would not ask for gifts so "Our holiday program is nice but modest. We want it to be runners and glad that we are able to raise money for other that his 5-year-old brother could get a Nintendo. duplicable by the parents when the family is back on their children that have had so many hardships so young." "Later, I was working at Granada High School's soccer feet." Each team member collected pledges from family and snack bar and told Coach Chris Salazar about it. He said he Until then, the boys soccer teams continue to give gen- friends for each mile they ran. The money will be donated would get the boys soccer team to collect gifts. The boys erously, providing gifts for children of all ages - including to Camp Okizu to send a child suffering from cancer to made sure the little boy received a Nintendo with games, teenagers. "A mom with a 16-year-old boy will find the summer camp. The team would like to thank New Leaf, and that his brother received a bike along with other toys." perfect gift for her son," said Dillman. Livermore Cyclery, Noah's Bagels, Fleet Feet, and Costco It was the start of a holiday tradition that continues to Granada Principal Philomena Rambo said, "Beyond for donating food and safety materials. Those interested this day. academics, community service is a key component of a 21st- in donating, please go to http://support.okizu.org/Gran- "My son is a freshman at Granada, and Sharon asked if I century education. Granada has a strong sense of community ada100milerelay and click on Donate. would coordinate donations for the three boys soccer teams that extends beyond the school itself." - freshman, junior varsity and varsity," said Kim Reddick. She added that Granada's "Me to We" club this year led "Sharon provided a general wish list of needs, wants and the school's annual Adopt-A-Family drive. ASB students likes for the children. Although the parents did not want participated in Livermore's "Shop With a Cop" program anything for themselves, some of the team managers came which pairs uniformed officers with at-risk youth to spend up with a list of household items and gift cards based on $125-gift cards at Wal-Mart, assisted by high school leader- the information provided. The soccer families welcomed ship students. the opportunity to support this Granada soccer tradition, "I commend our staff and students who are develop- and really came through." ing an understanding of humanity by supporting the larger Tri-Valley Haven (TVH) is one of the local organizations community," said Rambo. "The generosity of our boys’ dedicated to helping those in need. TVH serves adults and soccer program makes me proud of our student athletes children who have experienced domestic violence, sexual and coaches for reaching out to others, especially during assault, financial setbacks or homelessness. this holiday season." "Many families are working and barely making ends To learn more or donate, contact Sharon White at 447- meet. They just cannot afford the extra income to celebrate 9674. the holidays without assistance from the community," said

The Granada High School Wrestling Teams had a busy weekend. The varsity team took 4th place at the Bill Martel Invitational with 7 placers, and the junior varsity took home 9 medals at James Logan. Bill Martel Last weekend, hockey clubs at Foothill High School and Amador Valley High School played one another.The Invitational: 120- Joey Lestochi 2nd place; 126- Justin cross town rival game with a lot of action ended with the Dons defeating the Falcons, 6 to 2. The two teams will Gutke 5th place; 132- Terry Watts 2nd place; 138- face one another again on January 24th at Dublin Iceland at 6 p.m. Jackson Volkir 5th place; 152- Jack Kilner 2nd place; 152- Anthony Martinez 5th place; 170- Zach Stewart 3rd place; 182- Jake Linney 7th place. Pictured (from left, top row) are Coach Musselman, Jack Kilner, Anthony Martinez, Johnny Stalie; (2nd row) Jake Linney, Justin Gutke, Zach Oliviera, Zach Stewart, Coach Phillips; (3rd row) Jackson Volkir, Joey Lestochi, and Terry Watts. James Logan JV Tournament: Benny Valdez 1st place; Hamza Dogar 1st place; Robert Gonzalez 1st place; Angelo Midkiff 2nd place; Michael Branco-Katcher 3rd place; Richard Gonzalez 3rd place; Dylan Krauss 3rd place; Photo - Doug Jorgensen Participants dressed Tayler Braga 3rd place; and Anthony Garcia 3rd place. for the season to take part in Double Racing® in Pleasanotn, a two- Umpires Sought left hand column. All instructions stage running event. The Livermore Pleasanton Um- are there. Participants first run pires Association is seeking individu- the longer stage, take a als over 18 years of age interested in Girls Softball umpiring softball. Looking for both Livermore Girls Softball Asso- halftime break and then fast pitch and slow pitch umpires for ciation welcomes all Livermore girls run the second stage. the upcoming 2016 season. Training aged 5-18 for the 2016 Spring Recre- and meetings will begin in January ational season. No prior experience Times are combined for of 2016. Those interested should con- necessary. Register online at www. scoring. Participants tact Paul deLanda at fuaumpire19@ lgsa.org or email registration@lgsa. comcast.net. org for more information. must complete both stages to get a time. Lacrosse Signup CYO Track and Field Registration is open for the Liver- Practices for the St. Michael CYO more Phantom Lacrosse spring season. track and field team begin February Fall/winter tune-up sessions are under 8. The team is open to all children way now and included in the registra- in Livermore from grades 3 through tion fee. Sign up at www.phantomla- 8 regardless of experience or ability crosse.org. level. Children compete in running events from 50 meters to one mile plus relays as well as throwing and Phantom Tryouts jumping events. Pre-registration will Registration for the Pleasanton take place January 12, 14, and 18 Girls Softball League Spring Rec from 6:30-8:00 pm in the Dorothy season for girls in K-12 is now open. Day room at St. Charles Borromeo. To register, visit the PGSL website at For more information, go to the team www.pleasantonsoftball.org. Click website www.smisctrack.org or email on the "Registration" button in the [email protected].

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD OR LEGAL NOTICE IN THE INDEPENDENT, CALL (925)243-8000 PAGE 8 - The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 LOOK BACK AT 2015 (continued from page 5)

The Livermore Area Recreation and Park District held a grand opening ceremony for the new Cayetano Park in North Livermore. The 11.5 acre park offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The photo shows the view from the park.

Authority (EBRCSA). A prohibition on bee- keeping in Pleasanton, which had been in effect Photo - Doug Jorgensen since 1926, was repealed by Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District held its 12th annual Science Odyssey the city council. Beekeep- Feb. 20 at Junction Avenue K-8 School. A record-setting 700 students registered ing would now be allowed to display a research or engineering project. In addition, local agencies, clubs, and in areas zoned agriculture businesses set up display booths. Live music was provided by Scientific Jam. and properties with detached Students defended their projects in front of volunteer judges from the science and single family homes. engineering community. On display were photographs from the Art of Science student Livermore Valley Joint photography competition. Unified School District (LVJUSD) was honored at the 35th Annual Golden Bell Awards Program of the Photo - Doug Jorgensen California School Boards David Wetherell (right) and Ruby Hooper stood in front of Association (CSBA). The the new mural at the VA Hospital in Livermore that they award, in the Early Learn- helped to create. The mural, 40 feet long and 3 feet high, ing category for Students can be found in a common area where veterans and their Participating in Readiness families can enjoy it. Opportunities Using Themes in Science (SPROUTS), was The Pleasanton City Affairs in the White House for the Transitional Kinder- Council approved a Office of Science and Tech- garten (TK) program offered 112,000-square-foot shop- nology Policy (OSTP), was throughout the district. Tran- ping center and office park selected as deputy director sitional Kindergarten repre- in Staples Ranch with a for Science and Technology sented the first new grade focus on the Asian market. at Lawrence Livermore Na- created in California in over The Pacific Pearl would oc- tional Laboratory (LLNL). 100 years. SPROUTS offers cupy just over 11 acres on She replaced Greg Suski, students who turn 5 between the northeast corner of the who held the position on an September 2nd and De- Staples Ranch, across from interim basis. She would be cember 2nd Science, Tech- the San Francisco Premium responsible for the Labora- nology, Engineering, Arts Outlets in Livermore. Ten- tory's portfolio of science, and Math (STEAM) based ants will include restaurants, technology and engineering experiences while students retail and services. (ST&E) activities, collab- develop foundational skills. The State Department orative research with aca- The Livermore Area Rec- of Water Resources (DWR) demia and the private sec- reation and Park District increased its allotment of tor, the Institutional ST&E Photo - Doug Jorgensen held a grand opening for Roadmap, and the internal The park, located at the corner of Vervais Avenue and Main Street at the Main Street water to 20 percent, up Cayetano Park. The 11.5 from 15 percent in Febru- investment portfolio, includ- bridge over the Arroyo del Valle, was renamed and dedicated as Rotary Park in acre park, located on a hill ary. DWR said that storms ing the Laboratory Directed ceremonies held April 30. In addition to the park, a free-standing clock was unveiled. at the northeast corner of in December and February Research and Development The clock was presented as a gift to the City of Pleasanton by its three Rotary clubs- Portola Avenue and Isabel helped make it possible to Program. -Rotary Club of Pleasanton, Pleasanton North Rotary and Tri-Valley Rotary--as part Avenue turns into Campus raise the supply allocation. A dedication ceremony of this year's 50 Years of Pleasanton celebration. Future plans for the park include Hill Drive, offers views Last year's allotment was 5 marked the opening of the landscaping, two bocce courts, and picnic tables. and features many modern percent. Shadow Cliffs to Del Valle amenities. The City of Dublin ap- Regional Trail on the Syc- Expositions (IAFE). In all, tion by the U.S. Depart- sidered “non-traditional” proved a new slogan and an amore Grove Extension Alameda County Fair took ment of Education, Office for women. Lawrence Liver- MARCH 2015 imagery campaign designed property. The trail segment home a total of 31 WFA of Postsecondary Education, more National Laboratory The results of a poll to attract more residents completed a critical gap, Awards including 14 first making it Title III and Title physicist Natalia Zaitseva showed that Livermore resi- and businesses. The slogan, connecting the two regional place honors, 8 second place V eligible. The designation developed a way to rapidly dents viewed the community "The New American Back- parks. and 9 third place. IAFE also also waives fund match- grow large crystals used in as a great place to live, work, yard," was devised by North Alameda County acceler- honored the Fair with 16 in- ing requirements for some the Lab’s National Ignition and play. Nine out of ten Star Destination Strategies. ated its efforts to establish a ternational awards including federal grant and education Facility laser. residents rated their overall The focus was on Dublin as Community Choice Aggre- 7 first place, 8 second place programs. In order to be The Alameda County quality of life as excellent a place where residents can gation (CCA) program by and 1 third place. selected, the school was re- Transportation Commis- or good. Almost all were relax, relate socially to oth- launching a technical study Simon rebranded the quired to have an enrollment sion re-elected Supervisor likely to recommend Liver- ers in the community, and and formally announcing Livermore Premium Outlets of undergraduate full-time Scott Haggerty as its chair, more as a place to live. The enjoy the casual atmosphere the creation of a county- as the San Francisco Pre- equivalent students that is and Oakland City Council- poll was conducted by the that is typical of suburban wide Steering Committee. mium Outlets in conjunction at least 25 percent Hispanic member At-Large Rebecca National Research Center’s living. Community Choice allows with its major expansion. at the end of the award year Kaplan as vice chair. National Citizen Survey. Voters in the State Sen- local governments to ag- The 512,000 square-foot immediately preceding the The City of Dublin se- Among the findings in the ate 7th District supported gregate electricity demand center, located at the cor- date of application. lected Commander Dennis survey, Livermore continued Democrats Steve Glazer and within their jurisdictions in ner of El Charro Road and Two local women were Houghtelling as the City’s to score “above the norm” in Susan Bonilla. They would order to procure or develop I-580 in Livermore, opened selected for induction into new Police Chief. He re- the area of livability, tour- face each other in a run-off electricity for its customers in 2012. An expansion un- the Alameda County Wom- placed Police Chief Tom ism, shopping, mobility, vote on May 19. Neither while partnering with the derway would add 185,000 en's Hall of Fame. Rhonda McCarthy, who left to be- downtown vibrancy, and received over 50 percent of local utility that continues to square feet to be occupaied Wood, both an aviator and come Executive Director governance when compared the vote. The election was provide billing and delivery by leading designer brands. winemaker, was chosen for of the East Bay Regional to nationwide benchmark held to replace Mark De- services. The Dublin City Council her pursuit of careers con- Communications System communities. Saulnier, who was elected Altamont Wind Inc. awarded a $33 million con- to Congress. Glazer led (AWI) won permission to tract to build swimming and the voting followed by Bo- keep its 828 old wind-tur- water slide facilities at Em- nilla. Former Assemblyman bines operating in the Al- erald Glen Park. The facili- Joan Buchanan was third, tamont until 2018 on a 3-2 ties include one of the big- followed by Republican vote by the Alameda County gest indoor swimming pools Michaela Hertle and Terry Board of Supervisors. Su- in the East Bay, six water Kremin. Hertle had dropped pervisors Scott Haggerty, slides, including two that are out of the race at the begin- Nate Miley and Richard 45-feet tall and achieve fast ning and endorsed Glazer. Valle voted for the exten- speeds for users. There will Independent expenditures, sion; Wilma Chan and Keith be a splash pool for children reported at over $2 million, Carson were opposed. The where they can wade to a played a role in the election vote reversed the unanimous depth of 18 inches. In addi- with most of it benefitting decision of the East County tion, the park construction Glazer and Bonilla. Glazer Board of Zoning Adjustment will include a 2000-seat was the top vote getter in (BZA) not to grant the exten- outdoor amphitheater. There both Contra Costa and Al- sion. AWI was supposed to were concerns expressed by ameda Counties. end the old turbines later members of the public about Patricia Falcone, the as- this year, and start repower- moving forward with a large sociate director for National ing with new turbines. The aquatic facility in the face of Security and International new turbines would produce the California drought. (continued on page 9) Downtown revitalization Photo - Doug Jorgensen topped the list of goals es- Runners started the Livermore Half Marathon in downtown Livermore. With over 3500 tablished by the Livermore Livermore Cinemas City Council for 2015-2017. runners, the March 28 event was sold out. daddys home (pg13) 10:10 12:45 3:45 6:35 9:15 Support for BART to Liver- joy (pg13) 12:45 3:50 6:50 9:50 more was also listed as a pri- concussion (pg13) 12:00 3:30 6:40 9:40 ority. Other goals included point break (pg13) 10:45 1:35 4:25 7:15 9:55 encouraging business and big short (r) 12:30 3:40 6:40 9:40 expanding the city’s revenue star wars: the force awakens (pg13) 10:45 11:30 1:00 2:30 3:00 base to achieve long-term fi- 4:30 5:45 6:15 7:45 9:00 9:30 nancial stability, along with star wars: the force awakens (pg13)-3d 12:15 3:45 7:00 10:00 enhancing quality of life. star wars: the force awakens (pg13)-3d-dbox 10:00 1:45 Transportation and water 5:15 8:30 were viewed as important sisters (r) 12:40 3:45 6:50 9:45 areas of regional focus. alvin & the chipmunks: road chip (PG) 12:00 2:15 4:35 6:55 9:15 Las Positas College the good dinosaur (pg) 10:30 1:15 4:00 (LPC) was designated as a mockingjay pt 2 (pg13) 7:00 10:00 Hispanic Serving Institu- Preview Dec. 30th: the hateful eight (r) 7:00 The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 - PAGE 9 LOOK BACK AT 2015 (continued from page 8) more power overall and kill fewer endangered bird species. High School and two other sites. Barbara Mertes was the evaluation. The implementation of the body worn cameras AWI had agreed in 2013 to make the change. The company first executive leading the college. Las Positas College cur- allows LPD Officers to document incidents and interactions representative told the supervisors that more time was rently enrolls approximately 9,000 students. and obtain evidence during investigations. Additionally, needed to put everything in order. Environmentalists said Livermore's smoking ordinance was amended. E-ciga- the Department will be able to review the video footage that AWI had been too slow to repower and should not be rettes were included in the definition of smoking. Under the to debrief critical incidents and use the camera footage as given any more time. new ordinance, any product that generates smoke designed a training tool to keep officers well trained and prepared. The Pleasanton City Council approved work plan pri- to be inhaled would be regulated. The ordinance prohibits California State Parks released an environmental analysis orities for the 2015-16 year. They included projects on the smoking in the downtown in any outdoor area within 20 of a plan to more than double the Carnegie State Vehicular Bernal Property, looking at development on the Eastside, feet of doors and windows of commercial buildings, as well Recreation Area (SVRA) east of Livermore. The Prelimi- as well as a Fairgrounds master plan The Eastside planning as smoking in open public places, including parks, plazas, nary General Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Report process has been controversial. One concern related to the transit stops, and outdoor dining areas. The nonsmoking area (DEIR) looked at potential impacts related to the proposed need to move the urban growth boundary to accommodate would include the portion of First Street, up to the face of 3,100-acre expansion into the Tesla area. The DEIR analyzed the development. An initiative approved by voters prohibits buildings between Maple and L Streets; J and K Streets, up a general conceptual design and location of the proposed moving the urban growth boundary without consent of the to the face of building, from First Street to Second Street. alternatives, including visitor experience areas, and a broad voters. Another issue involved housing, which opponents The California State Attorney General's office approved set of goals and guidelines for future management and devel- say would not be needed since the city has met its housing Stanford Health Care's (SHC) acquisition of ValleyCare opment, rather than specific and detailed projects. In the view obligations on land currently zoned for development. Health System as its subsidiary. The ValleyCare board of di- of Friends of Tesla Park, the general nature of the analysis rectors and SHC approved the conditions of the acquisition. opened the potential to future uses that would be detrimental APRIL 2015 They include such things as 24-hour emergency services to the environment. There were no specifics provided as to The Pleasanton Unified School District began looking at ValleyCare Medical Center, acute psychiatric services, where trails might be located, just general areas designated into becoming the first in California to offer a STEAM cur- cardiac care, obstetrics, neonatal services, orthopedics, and where they could be placed. "There is very little about the riculum for a pre-school for 3- and 4- year-olds. STEAM women's imaging. Acute care services in Livermore and plan and a whole lot about the setting," according to Friends refers to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math- Dublin would be required to continue for at least five years. of Tesla. The expansion proposal has been controversial. ematics. Even before transitional kindergarten (TK), chil- The Tri-Valley Conservancy (TVC) was approved by Off-road enthusiasts, who support the project, say they need dren would be working within the more inquiry-oriented, the Bay Delta Region of the California Department of more places to accommodate the growing sport. Opponents, project-based Core Curriculum State Standards. Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to hold and manage mitigation led by Friends of Tesla Park, claim the expansion would Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District Trustees lands in the Bay Delta Region. TVC will be able to act as threaten wildlife, ecological resources, and historic sites. voted to expand the district's dual immersion (DI) program. a mitigation bank. Tri-Valley Conservancy went through Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center (LVPAC) The program benefits both English learners and English the CDFW required due diligence application process to be Executive director Scott Kenison presented a report to the speakers by offering lessons that result in bilingual, literate approved to hold and manage mitigation lands. A mitigation Livermore City Council on recent successes and a vision for and culturally competent students. The program, offered at bank includes privately or publicly owned land managed the future. Topics included increased income through dona- Junction Avenue K-8 School, would be available at Liver- for natural resource values. In exchange for permanently tions and ticket sales, changes to include a broader range of more High School. protecting, managing, and monitoring the land, the bank programs, more partnerships, cost cutting, and expanded use Over 3,500 runners helped sell out the Livermore Half operator (TVC) can sell or transfer habitat credits to proj- of the Bankhead Theater. LVPAC operates the Bankhead Marathon in early April. The event experienced unprec- ect proponents who need to satisfy legal requirements for Theater and the Bothwell Arts Center. Kenison noted that edented growth in its second year, according to promoters mitigating the environmental impacts of projects. Del Valle Fine Arts, for the first time, opened its featured with the elimination of debt, LVPAC has been able to move of the event, RaceForce, LLC. forward and make plans for growth and improvement. The The arts and culture sector of the U.S. economy contrib- concert on May 2nd with a "Young Artist Showcase" pre- concert. The Young Artist Showcase was conceived as a way current season was successful, filling the theater at 84% uted $699 billion to the U.S. economy in 2012, according capacity, compared to a 52% average last season. Resident to a federal report. In Alameda County, arts related busi- to build interest among students in the area, and as a gift ness represents 5.1% of all businesses, compared to 3.9% to the patrons of Del Valle's five concerts during the year. companies have also seen an increase in capacity, from 66% nationwide; arts related employees represent 2.1% of all All Livermore Police Department officers began wear- last year to 68% this year. ing body cameras after 14 months of research, testing and employees compared to 1.9% nationwide. There were (continued on page 10) 4,378 arts related businesses in Alameda County employ- ing 15,373 people as of January 2015. Those were some of the statistics presented during a program, "Arts Mean Business," held at the Bankhead Theater. The program was organized by Barbara Steinfeld, executive director of Visit Tri-Valley. Speaker, Randy Cohen, vice president of Research for Americans for the Arts, noted that creativity Pleasanton Police classes are primarily taught and be approved by the music performed by the drives innovation; innovation drives the economy. The arts Academy by Department personnel Chief of Police. award-winning Cantabella also have a positive impact on education and health, accord- Enrollment is now open and cover a wide variety of Applications are avail- Children’s Chorus. The mar- ing to Cohen. Cohen noted that arts and cultural spending for the 2016 session of the topics including Community able at the front counter of athon may be viewed on creates a ripple effect on the overall economy, boosting Pleasanton Police Depart- Policing, Patrol Procedures, the Pleasanton Police De- Comcast TV Channel 30 and both commodities and jobs. For example, for every 100 ment Citizens’ Police Acad- Radio Communications, partment or online at www. AT&T U-verse via Chan- jobs created from new demand for the arts, 62 additional emy. It begins on Thursday, SWAT, Narcotics Investiga- pleasantonpd.org. If you nel 99 as well as streaming jobs are also created. January 21, 2016 and con- tions, Crime Prevention, have any questions, please live on the TV30 website at cludes on April 28, 2016. Traffic Enforcement, K-9’s, call Crime Prevention Of- www.tv30.org California's first mandated water rationing in history TV30 air times for Can- looked familiar to Valley residents. For the past year, resi- This will be the twenty fourth Evidence Collection, Use ficer Monique Limon at of Force Issues, Animal (925) 931-5295 or email tabella Children’s Chorus: dents had been meeting the 25 percent goal of water use Citizens’ Academy the De- 12/24 - 5 p.m., 10 p.m.; cutback set by Valley retailers, and established as mandatory partment has presented since Services and the DARE her at CrimePrevention@ program. cityofpleasantonca.gov. 12/25 - 9 a.m., 2 p.m., 7 p.m. by Gov. Jerry Brown. its inception in 2000. Dublin Tree Lighting: The Pleasanton City Council approved construction The goals of the program This program is open to adults only. Applicants will 12/24 - 2 p.m., 7 p.m.; 12/25 contracts for Phase II of the Bernal Park. Phase II includes are to create closer partner- Holiday Marathon - 1 a.m., 6 a.m., 11 a.m., 4 two different areas. The first consists of 16.5 acres where ships with the public, explain be carefully screened and Spend Christmas Eve and participants must live or p.m., 9 p.m. three multi-purpose lighted sports fields will be located. law enforcement procedures, Christmas Day with TV30 Livermore Sights & Stadium seating will be located along one side. The second, and discuss the importance work in the City of Pleas- for the "Tri-Valley Holiday anton. They must be free of Sounds Parade: 12/24 - 6 40 acres, will remain a natural area. of public involvement in the Marathon" featuring local p.m., 11 p.m.; 12/25 - 10 Las Positas College celebrated its 40th anniversary. The policing process. any felony convictions, have holiday events. The station no misdemeanor arrests a.m., 3 p.m., 8 p.m. celebration began with a ribbon cutting to open the new All segments of the Acad- will be airing the 2015 holi- Pleasanton Hometown Library and Veterans' Center. Las Positas College opened emy will be held on Thurs- within one year of applica- day celebrations and parades tion, successfully complete Holiday Parade:​ 12/24 - 3 its doors in 1963 as an extension center of Chabot College, day evenings from 6:30 p.m. from the Cities of Dublin, p.m., 8 p.m.; 12/25 - 2 a.m., offering 24 classes and serving 810 students at Livermore to 9:30 p.m. at the Pleasanton a background investigation Livermore and Pleasanton. 7 a.m., 12 p.m. (noon), 5 check, sign waiver forms Police Department. These In addition enjoy holiday p.m., & 10 p.m.​

David Wayne is deeply loved and lives Man, avid in many fields, very close friends. gener- genson, and mother Rose A. Cannizzaro forever in our hearts. including being one of the Ryion's (REDD THA ous Jorgenson and father Oscar David Wayne Cannizza- David is survived by his Bay Area's most Versitile RSONIST) Ever Loving among C. Jorgenson. He is sur- ro, age 60, passed away sud- daughter, Chandra Sheehan and Professional Tatoo Artist Spirit will be missed So us left vived by his wife Diane, and denly on Tuesday December of Livermore, CA., his son at INKESTRY in Livermore, Much and never forgotten to go children Michael and Julie 8, 2015 Jesse Cannizzaro of Liver- CA . Ryion participated by all who knew him. To home. and Brad, and all siblings, from a more CA., grandchildren in Martial Arts and was a be in his presence meant H e Wallace, Marilyn, Darrel pulmo- Jordan Sheehan, Mason renowned Recording Artist. big smiles and many belly was a and Stanley. nary Sheehan and Jesse Canniz- Ryion Loved Life and lived laughs!! We Love You Ry- loving He enjoyed being Nor- embo- zaro; siblings Suzan Cosima it to the fullest. ion!! Hus- wegian, loved his family lism. Petersen, Mario Cannizzaro, He leaves to mourn, his band, and friends, being a member David Lanelle Faraj and Catherine mother, Patricia G Ander- Claude H. Roper Fa- of the First Presbyterian was Rae, many nephews, nieces, son, of Fort Wayne, IN; four Claude Roper was born ther, Church, photography and born in and cousins and of course his brothers, Shannon L. (Ra- November 9, 1932 in Niles, and Grandfather. After bat- riding his Harley Motor- Albany best buddy Maximus. heem) Anderson, Mountain CA. He grew up in the Bay tling an illness for a long cycle. CA, David’s memorial ser- House, CA, - Patrick C. An- Area. His lived with his time, Dennis passed gently He has gone too soon but Febru- vice will be held on January derson, of Mountain House, family in Livermore during in his sleep. will remain in our hearts ary 5, 16th 2016 at 11:00am at CA - Adrion D. (Kimberly) the 1960s and 1970s. He Dennis was preceded in forever. 1955 to Callaghan Mortuary, 3833 Anderson, of East Palo Alto, recently lived in Oakland. death by his wife Linda Jor- the late Beverley Janet War- East Avenue Livermore CA CA - James D Anderson, Claude died December ren and Mario Cannizzaro. 94550. , of Fort Wayne, IN. and the 15, 2015. David grew up in San Le- In lieu of flowers or gifts, Bay Area, CA; two sisters, He is survived by four andro, where he graduated please make a donation in Jazzmin C. Anderson, of children, Karen MCConnell San Leandro High School Dave’s name at a charity Pittsburg, CA - Olivia P. (Ned) of Livermore, Paul in 1974. He then attended or animal rescue of your Anderson, from Bay Area, (Sheilah), and Peter Roper of technical school to become choice. CA - Half-Brother, James Carthage MS., and Claudia a welder. He began work- Please visit http://www. Duncan Walker, of Las Ve- Lawrence of Harperville Obituary/ ing at Romak Iron Works in caringbridge.org/visit/da- gas, NV. Ryion met his high MS. He was grandfather of 1978 and completed many vidcannizzaro to share your school sweetheart and fian- nine and a great grandfather Memoriam Policies projects during his 35 year memories and photos of ce', Kristen Leong, attending of nineteen. employment. In early 2015, Dave and stay updated on Carlmont H.S., in Belmont, His hobbies included David began working at any new information. CA. He is also survived by writing poetry, prayers and Obituaries are published in Tesla Motors in Fremont as his grandparents Olivia & short stories. The Independent at no charge. a Metal Finisher. Ryion D'Shon Abbie Jewel Robinson, of We love you Dad! David enjoyed spending Anderson Fort Wayne, IN; and his There is a small charge for time with his friends and Ryion D'Shon Anderson great grandmother Rosie L. Dennis R. Jorgenson family. He looked forward to departed this Life on Mon- Cooper, of Chino Hills, CA. June 28, 1938-Dec. 17, 2015 photographs in the obituaries. meeting his buddies for ping day, November 30, 2015, Redd is preceeded in Born in Minnesota, pong matches. He was an as a result of a Pulmonary death by his father, James Resident of Livermore, CA excellent photographer and Emboli with Pulmonary C (Mickey) Anderson, his The evening of Decem- Memoriam ads can also really enjoyed taking por- Infarcts. sister, Precious Angel An- ber 17, 2015, one of the most traits, pictures of nature, and Ryion was born in Hay- derson, his granddad, Wil- be placed in the night sky, with one of ward, CA, at Kaiser Foun- liam Harold Anderson (our his pictures being published dation Hospital. He was Anderson Namesake) and The Independent in Astronomy magazine in a "Very Remarkable and his biological grandfather, J. September of 1985. Most Extremely Talented" young C. Freed and a host of aunts, when families want of all, Dave loved spending uncles, nieces, nephews and time with his best buddy and to honor the memories of dog of 13 years, Max. They would enjoy multiple trips their loved ones. There is a charge to the dog park in Discovery for memoriam Bay and Livermore. Max ValleyCare Thrift Shop enjoyed riding in his crate ads, based on the size of the ad. that Dave had built for him END OF THE MONTH SALE on his bicycle. David will be remem- This Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. bered for his kind, loving Please send an email to and generous heart. We will EVERYTHING IN THE STORE miss his laugh and his way [email protected] of always making others 1/2 OFF! laugh. He was a devoted to receive more information father and grandfather and 1911 Second Street, Livermore will be greatly missed. He PAGE 10 - The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 LOOK BACK AT 2015 (continued from page 9)

Three nonprofits were LEGAL NOTICES Court, Livermore, CA 94550 17, 24, 31, 2015, January estate, or both, of: approved to provide ser- This business is conducted 7, 2016. JOSEPH EDWARD FOR INFORMATION by an Individual FICTITIOUS BUSINESS CARVER, III (also known vices to low-income and PLACING LEGAL The registrant began to trans- NAME STATEMENT as Joseph Edward Carver) disabled persons at Hage- NOTICES act business using the ficti- FILE NO. 512207 mann Farm in Livermore Call 925-243-8000 tious business name(s) listed The following person(s) do- 2.A Petition for Probate above on November 1, 2015. ing business as: Gamma has been filed by: JOSEPH STATEMENT OF through December 2017. Signature of Registrants Services, 1159 Lexington EDWARD CARVER, IV in the ABANDONMENT Selected were Fertile :s/: Susan J. Donetti Way, Livermore, CA 94550, Superior Court of California, FICTITIOUS BUSINESS This statement was filed with is hereby registered by the County of ALAMEDA. Groundworks, Sunflower NAME the County Clerk of Alameda following owner(s): Hill, and Del Arroyo 4-H FILE NO. 485647 on November 17, 2015. Ex- (1)Ariel Gregorio Ceballos 3.The Petition for Probate The following person(s) has Double Heart adaptive rid- pires November 17, 2020. (2)Maria Ana Santiago, 1159 requests that: JOSEPH (have) abandoned the use ing. Fertile Groundworks The Independent Legal No. Lexington Way, Livermore, EDWARD CARVER, IV be of the Fictitious Business 3881. Published December CA 94550 appointed as personal rep- and Sunflower Hill will Name: A1 Smog Test Only 10, 17, 24, 31, 2015 This business is conducted resentative to administer the plant gardens. The Del Center, 3573 First St Unit C, by Married Couple estate of the decedent. Livermore, CA 94551. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Arroyo 4-H Club of Liver- The registrant has not yet The Fictitious Business NAME STATEMENT more, a program of the begun to transact business 4. ( X ) The petition requests Name Statement being aban- FILE NO. 511893 using the fictitious business the decedent’s will and codi- University of California, doned was filed on 12/3/2013 The following person(s) doing name listed above. cils, if any, be admitted to in the County of Alameda. business as: Olson Enterpris- will offer Double Hearts Signature of Registrants probate. The will and any The full name of Registrant: es, 7000 Village Parkway #5, Riding focusing on adap- :s/: Ariel Gregorio Ceballos codicils are available for Son Cao Pham, 3192 Cad- Dublin, CA 94568, is hereby This statement was filed with examination in the file kept tive horse riding lessons for man Rd, Fremont, CA 94538 registered by the following the County Clerk of Alam- by the court. low-income and disabled Signature of Registrant: owner(s): eda on December 4, 2015. /s/: Son Cao Pham (1)Jonathan M. Olson (2) persons. Expires December 4, 2020. 5. ( X ) The petition requests This statement was filed with Christopher L. Olson, 102 The 3rd Annual Pleas- The Independent Legal No. authority to administer the the County Clerk of Alameda Madelia Pl, San Ramon, 3884. Published December estate under the Independent anton Run for Education, on November 18, 2015. Ex- CA 94583 17, 24, 31, 2015, January Administration of Estates Act. a fundraiser for the Pleas- pires November 18, 2020. This business is conducted 7, 2016. (This authority will allow the The Independent Legal No. by Co-partners anton Partnerships in Edu- personal representative to 3879. Published December The registrant has not yet FICTITIOUS BUSINESS cation Foundation (PPIE) take many actions without Photo - Doug Jorgensen 3, 10, 17, 24, 2015. begun to transact business NAME STATEMENT raised a record $96,000. using the fictitious business FILE NO. 512431 obtaining court approval. Dublin High School women's varsity basketball team FICTITIOUS BUSINESS name listed above. The following person(s) Before taking certain very Amador Valley High NAME STATEMENT lost 63 to 49 to defending champion Archbishop Mitty in Signature of Registrants doing business as: Solano important actions, however, School finished sixth in FILE NO. 511820 :s/: Jonathan M. Olson, Gen- Barbier, 1526 Dorothy Com- the personal representative the Northern California Division II final. The Lady Gaels The following person(s) do- the national We the People eral Partner mon, Livermore, CA 94551, will be required to give notice ing business as: Hop DeVine, competition in Washington led at the half in the game played at Sleep Train Arena This statement was filed with is hereby registered by the to interested persons unless 1702 N. Vasco Rd, Liver- in Sacramento Saturday morning. the County Clerk of Alameda following owner(s): they have waived notice or D.C. more, CA 94551, is hereby on November 23, 2015. Ex- Zachary Solano, 1526 Doro- consented to the proposed registered by the following pires November 23, 2020. thy Common, Livermore, action.) The independent ad- owner(s): The Independent Legal No. CA 94551 ministration authority will be Rustin A. Skinner Inc, 1452 3882. Published December This business is conducted granted unless an interested N. Vasco Rd #162, Liver- 10, 17, 24, 31, 2015. by an Individual person files an objection to more, CA 94551 The registrant has not yet the petition and shows good Zone 7 Adds More This business is conducted FICTITIOUS BUSINESS begun to transact business cause why the court should by a Corporation NAME STATEMENT using the fictitious business not grant the authority. The registrant has not yet FILE NO. 511019 name listed above. begun to transact business The following person(s) doing Clarity to Financial Books Signature of Registrants 6.A hearing on the petition using the fictitious business business as: Signature Print :s/: Zachary Solano will be held in this court as name listed above. & Promo, 960 Kern Court, This statement was filed with follows: ally accepted principles in some directors. Director Signature of Registrants Livermore, CA 94551, is Zone 7 Water Agency's the County Clerk of Alameda Date: January 13, 2016 :s/: Rustin Skinner, CEO hereby registered by the auditor gave the district high the United States. Angela Ramirez Holmes on December 10, 2015. Ex- TIME: 9:30 AM DEPT: 201 This statement was filed with following owner(s): said the money is important pires December 10, 2020. at: marks for the clarity of its Earning the high rating the County Clerk of Alameda Sherri Simoni, 960 Kern The Independent Legal No. SUPERIOR COURT OF financial books. Directors was especially difficult for to know about, because on November 19, 2015. Ex- Court, Livermore, CA 94551 3885. Published December CALIFORNIA pires November 19, 2020. This business is conducted added their appreciation for the fiscal year ending in it could be used for some 17, 24, 31, 2015, January County of Alameda The Independent Legal No. by an Individual the work by new assistant June 30, 2015, because for purposes in the future, if 7, 2016. 2120 Martin Luther King, 3880. Published December The registrant has not yet Jr. Way general manager of finance the first time, agencies must the board wants to spend 10, 17, 24, 31, 2015. begun to transact business NOTICE OF PETITION TO Berkeley, CA 94704 show their pension funds as it. It would have been good using the fictitious business A D M I N I S T E R E S T A T E O F : Osborn Solitei and his staff FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Probate name listed above. JOSEPH EDWARD in delivering a clearer look a liability on the books, said to know about it during the NAME STATEMENT Signature of Registrants CARVER III Alvey. Previously the funds water rate discussion earlier FILE NO. 511746 7.If you object to the at finances than in the past. :s/: Sherri Simoni Case No. RP15794992 The following person(s) do- granting of the petition, The board voted unani- were a footnote. this year, she added. This statement was filed with ing business as: Descending you should appear at the However, Solitei pointed the County Clerk of Alameda 1.To all heirs, mously at its meeting Dec. Zone 7 employees' pen- Dove Creations, 737 Hayes hearing and state your on October 27, 2015. Expires beneficiaries, creditors, 16 to accept the audit from sions are covered by Al- out that the reserve funds Court, Livermore, CA 94550, objections or file written October 27, 2020. contingent creditors, and is hereby registered by the objections with the court Maze & Associates. ameda County. The Zone were listed previously in The Independent Legal No. persons who may otherwise following owner(s): before the hearing. Your ap- David Alvey, a vice-pres- 7 share of pension liability the budget, in a different 3883. Published December be interested in the will or Susan J. Donetti, 737 Hayes ident at Maze, gave Zone currently sits at $22 million. place. "This was not the first 7 a "clean opinion, an un- However, that can go up or time they showed up," said modified opinion. This is the down each year, according Solitei. highest level of assurance to the interest rates on which President Sarah Palmer from a CPA staff." Alvey pension funds depend, said said, "It is important for the added, "We have no items Alvey. public to know we were not Professionals Choice to bring to your attention." Director John Greci, who hiding it." More specifically, the au- has been on the board since Ramirez Holmes said that Real Estate Directory dit shows that Zone 7 books 1994, said, "This financial if the board wishes at some present fairly the position of report is the best and sim- future date, there could be a Local guide to the Valley’s Leading the agency's business-type plest report I've seen, and the discussion about putting the activities, and the respective most comprehensive." money into a different fund. Real Estate ProfessionalsLivermore’s Top & Services Producing Building up a fund to meet Ivy changes in the financial posi- The staff's work on the Real Estate Agent 2012 tion and cash flows for the books apparently made pension obligations could be Mike Fracisco Top Producing Livermore year. Further, the accounting things so clear that two one use, or it could be used www.IvyLoGerfo.comRealtor since 1999 (925) 998-8131 www.IvyLoGerfo.com is in conformity with gener- reserve funds totaling $8 for other things, or just be 925 998-5312 million became evident to retained. Residential • Commercial • Property Mgmt (925) 998-5312 Fracisco Realty & Investments CalBRE#01267853 www.MikeFracisco.com BRE #01267853Ivy CalBRE #01378428 REALTOR® Sandee Utterback (continued from page 4) (925) 487-0524 addressed and efforts of the numbers of trained person- great joy playing their string, Cindy Williams Gene Williams CalBRE#00855150 nel, updating of existing wind and percussion instru- REALTOR®, CRS & GRI REALTOR® WWW.SANDEEU.COM Veterans Administration (925) 918-2045 (510) 390-0325 hospitals like the Livermore ments. The progression of Specializing in have since begun to reduce www.WilliamsReGroup.com Livermore’s instruction from 4th to 5th, Finest Homes wait time and reduce the location, as well as potential Over Two Decades of Experience! like tragedies of the above for new VA hospital devel- to Middle School intermedi- officer. Progress is slow and opment. ate and advanced orchestra/ Gail Henderson band as each group took the Broker Associate, MPA SABRINA BASCOM plagued by VA hospital clo- This massive flaw in the Commercial • Residential sures, budget cuts and lack Veterans Administration stage demonstrated a highly (925) 337-0194 proficient teaching staff, (925) 980-5648 of trained personnel. needs addressing immedi- www.gailhenderson.com [email protected] With the potential closure ately as the numbers of vet- highly qualified integrated Cal BRE#01848451 volunteer community sup- of the ever-popular Liver- erans seeking benefits and Cal BRE 101 E. Vineyard Ave more VA hospital squashed treatment is said to triple as port, active administrative #01709171 #103, Livermore, CA participation in the program, for the time being and its those that served in the Iraq DONNA SUSAN plans for repurposing of the war begin to return home and a huge community audi- GARRISON SCHALL ence. Engagement, respect, 925.980.0273 925.519.8226 facility into a transitional from their tours. If the VA CA BRE Lic. # 01395362, 01735040, 01964566 center for those veterans continues to operate as it pride and participation by Search Tri-Valley Homes for Sale at FabulousProperties.net suffering from PTSD and currently does, tragedies like such a large portion of the reintegration into civilian the one discussed earlier will student body demonstrated Pam Cole life remaining on the table, only increase and more lives that self-esteem is nutured CalBRE#01291147 it would appear that the VA will be lost. at this school and alive in (925) 337-2461 was better equipped to serve We ask our servicemen the music program. Clearly, [email protected] and women to fight often both classroom and instruc- www.PamCole4Homes.com Rebecca L. Evans our war heroes. However, Team Evans Excellence in Real Estate that is as we all know, far at the risk of their own on tional music are well done from the truth. a daily basis, let's not make and highly valued at this 1686 Second Street 925.784.2870 Livermore, CA 94550 Looming budget cuts of them fight for benefits and school site. The model of www.rebeccalevans.com $1.4 billion to the Veter- treatment upon their arrival delivery of services is ex- 2014 Achievement Award – Top 100 Agents Livermore Valley Expert ans Administration in 2016 home. Hardly seems like emplary. My commendation CalBRE # 01498025 would result in the halting proper expression of our goes to the music staff on ex- of new hospital develop- indebted gratitude. pert programming as well as Cindy Greci Dominic Greci All it took was your votes spawning discipline, humor ment as well as reduce the (925) 784-1243 (925) 525-0864 opportunity to hire more and advocacy to save the and joy in musicianship. GRI GRI Livermore VA from com- Well done! I am eagerly trained personnel and would BRE#01323804 BRE#01707140 continue to reduce benefit plete closure, now all it takes looking forward to attending processing and wait times. is your advocacy to help the next concert and fol- www.GreciGroup.com Financially it would make our veterans get the benefits lowing the growth of these more sense to refurbish and and treatments they were future musicians! KRISTY PEIXOTO expand older hospitals, such promised upon enlistment. AND COMPANY Space Reserved as the Livermore VA here in Mayor Marchand supports Win-Win Estates, Ranches & Land Realtors town. It would cost the VA the veterans and the Liver- Robert S. Allen (925) 251-2536 for Your Ad, Call significantly less then a new more VA, do you? BART Director, [email protected] 243-8001 build in the Central Valley. District 5, (1974-1988) Estatesandranches.com It so happens that the Dollars Well Spent Livermore CalBRE #01256255 house has a 2015 proposed Lynda Alvarez For the decade until BART reaches Livermore, Marina Guevorkian PREFERRED BROKERS bill on the table known as Livermore RE/MAX Hall of Fame H.R. 1331: The Quicker It was my great my plea- a three-bus Wheels route Wanda Thompson could connect BART's Air- Certified Negotiation Expert Veterans Benefits Act. The sure Dec. 15, to attend a (925) 640-8824 925.858.9128 passing of this bill would al- Livermore public school way park/ride at Isabel with www.SellingLivermore.com low veterans to visit private music program showcasing every daytime weekday [email protected] 411 So L St, Suite E, Livermore BART train. With farebuster BRE#00983781 / NMLS#244633 physicians of their choosing students from grades four CalBRE 01390611 Accord to speed up the VA benefit through eight in all stages to BART and BART transfer application process and be- of string, wind, and choral from, the round trip fare MICHELLE ELLIOTT gin treatment which could instruction given by Liver- costs $2.60 - less than the Mortgage Banker National Achiever save the lives of more then more Valley Charter School. $3.00 to park at BART (if DRE#01254257 one at risk veteran. Tax dollars are well spent one can find a parking spot) 925-212-6907 The allowance of the use supporting the fine arts at - and would leave or pick up [email protected] the rider right at the station homeloans.chase.com/michelle.d.elliott of physicians outside the this campus. NMLS ID: 694685 VA network would relieve Fourth graders with only fare gate. Each rider doing some financial hardship of six class meetings of instruc- this would open up one more the Veterans Administration tion displayed discipline, fo- parking spot at the station. To Place Your Ad, Call Your Account and allow for better use of cus following the baton, and It's a win-win for everyone. the funds such as increased Representative At (925) 243-8001 The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 - PAGE 11

pearance may be in person name listed above. CA 94578 This statement was filed with MERCHANDISE or by your attorney. Signature of Registrants Signature of Registrant: the County Clerk of Alam- :s/: Thomas M. Vandegriff, /s/: Rebecca A. Beyers eda on December 8, 2015. 118) FREE SECTION 8.If you are a creditor or President This statement was filed with Expires December 8, 2020. FREE WOOD a contingent creditor of This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Alameda The Independent Legal No. Pine & Oak the decedent, you must file the County Clerk of Alameda on December 10, 2015. Ex- 3893. Published December You cut it & haul it your claim with the court and on December 14, 2015. Ex- pires December 10, 2020. 24, 31, 2015, January 7, Mines Road mail a copy to the personal pires December 14, 2020. The Independent Legal No. 14, 2016. (408)897-3156 representative appointed The Independent Legal No. 3891. Published December ANIMALS by the court within the later 3889. Published December 24, 31, 2015, January 7, of either (1) four months 24, 31, 2015, January 7, 14, 2016. 2) CATS/ DOGS 127) LOST/ FOUND from the date of first issu- 14, 2016. STATEMENT OF ADOPT A DOG OR CAT, for FOUND ance of letters to a general STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT adoption information contact on Humboldt Way personal representative, as ABANDONMENT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Valley Humane Society at Livermore defined in section 58(b) of FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (925)426-8656. Portfolio of Greek music the California Probate Code, NAME FILE NO. 484792 CD’s 60 days Adopt a new best friend: or (2) from the date FILE NO. 449598 The following person(s) has Please call of mailing or personal deliv- TVAR, the Tri-Valley Animal (925)447-3857 California Real Estate’s The following person(s) has (have) abandoned the use ery to you of a notice under Rescue, offers animals for (have) abandoned the use of the Fictitious Business adoption every Saturday section 9052 of the California of the Fictitious Business Name: Allied Trailer & Coach Other Cali- and Sunday, excluding most ANNOUNCEMENTS Probate Code. Name: Allied Trailer Supply of Works, 15180 E. 14th St, San fornia statutes and legal holidays. On Saturdays from Top 7 Trends of 2015 San Leandro, 15180 E. 14th Leandro, CA 94578. 155) NOTICES authority may affect your 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, dogs are St, San Leandro, CA 94578. The Fictitious Business By Cher Wollard rights as a creditor. You available at the Pleasanton “NOTICE TO READERS: The Fictitious Business Name Statement being aban- may want to consult with Farmers Market at W. An- California law requires that The past year has seen lots of changes in real estate, some an- Name Statement being aban- doned was filed on 11/7/2013 an attorney knowledgeable gela and First Streets. Two contractors taking jobs that doned was filed on 3/24/2011 in the County of Alameda. ticipated, much of it not. in California law. locations will showcase cats total $500 or more (labor in the County of Alameda. The full name of Registrant: only: Petsmart in Dublin from and/or materials) be licensed California home sales continued to rise for the third consecutive The full name of Registrant: Rebecca A. Beyers, 19688 You may examine the file 12:00 to 4:00 and the Pet by the Contractors State year, with the Bay Area leading the way. 9. (1)Gregory R. Beyers (2) Forest Ave, Castro Valley, kept by the court. Extreme in Livermore from License Board. State law If you are Rebecca A. Beyers, 19688 CA 94546 In Livermore as of Dec. 14, 1,308 homes were sold this year a person interested in the 12:00 to 4:00. On Sundays, also requires that contractors Forest Ave, Castro Valley, Signature of Registrant: cats are available at Petsmart include their license numbers through the Multiple Listing Service, compared with 1,050 in 2014. estate, you may file with the CA 94546 /s/: Rebecca A. Beyers in Dublin from 1:00 to 4:00, on all advertising. Check your Pleasanton’s numbers rose from 805 to 869, while Dublin jumped court a Request for Special Signature of Registrant: This statement was filed with and Pet Extreme in Livermore contractor’s status at www. Notice (Form DE-154) of /s/: Gregory R. Beyers the County Clerk of Alameda from 768 to an astounding 1,157 homes sold this past year. the filing of an inventory and from 12:00 to 4:00. For more cslb.ca.gov or (800)321- /s/: Rebecca A. Beyers on December 10, 2015. Ex- information, call Terry at CSLB (2752). Unlicensed Prices too increased. The median sales price in Livermore appraisal of estate assets or This statement was filed with pires December 10, 2020. of any petition or account as (925)487-7279 or visit our persons taking jobs less this year was $742,132, up from $599,975. Pleasanton rose from the County Clerk of Alam- The Independent Legal No. website at www.tvar.org than $500 must state in their provided in Probate Code eda on December 7, 2015. 3892. Published December $835,000 to more than $1.43 million; Dublin’s median price in- . advertisements that they are section 1250 A Request for Expires December 7, 2020. 24, 31, 2015, January 7, FERAL CAT FOUNDATION creased from $700,000 to $830,000 this year. Special Notice form is avail- not licensed by the Contrac- The Independent Legal No. 14, 2016. Cat & kitten adoptions now tors State License Board.” able from the court clerk. at the new Livermore Petco As for statewide trends, Realtor magazine, an industry publica- 3890. Published December FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 24, 31, 2015, January 7, on Saturdays from 10:00AM REAL ESTATE tion published by the California Association of Realtors, identified (X) NAME STATEMENT 10. Attorney for Peti- 14, 2016. to 2:30PM. We have many Inland Valley 7 Top Trends for 2015. tioner: FILE NO. 512325 adorable, tame kittens that STATEMENT OF The following person(s) doing Publishing Co. Freelance reporter Roger Cruzan, who specializes in real estate DIANA DEAN GENDOTTI, have been tested for FIV & Client Code:04126-00001 ESQ. ABANDONMENT business as: Your Mechanic FELV, altered & vaccinated. matters, interviewed industry insiders and found that, while much FICTITIOUS BUSINESS R.V., Trailer & Parts Center, Re: Legal Notice for 95 MAIN STREET We also have adult cats & Classified Ads has changed in the past 12 months, this is what stands out: Suite 7 NAME 481 Meek Ave., Hayward, CA ranch cats for adoption. The Federal Fair Housing LOS ALTOS, CA 94022 FILE NO. 488819 94541, is hereby registered 1. Housing recovery gained momentum Act, Title VII of the Civil (650) 947-0307 The following person(s) has by the following owner(s): EMPLOYMENT By mid-year, sales of existing homes statewide had hit a nine- Rights Act of 1964, and state (have) abandoned the use (1)John Philip Waters (2)Ni- BE WARY of out of area year high, thanks to job growth, increasing consumer confidence of the Fictitious Business colyn Sue Waters, 481 Meek law prohibit advertisements The Independent Legal No. companies. Check with the for housing and employment and continued low interest rates. The biggest challenge for Real- 3886. Name: Allied Trailer & Coach Ave., Hayward, CA 94541 local Better Business Bureau Works, 15080 E. 14th St, San This business is conducted that contain any preference, tors and potential buyers was lack of homes to purchase. That led Published December 17, 24, before you send money or limitation or discrimination 31, 2015. Leandro, CA 94578. by a Joint venture fees. Read and understand to stiff competition that pushed up prices and left many would-be The Fictitious Business The registrant has not yet based on protected classes, ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE any contracts before you buyers in the lurch. Name Statement being aban- begun to transact business including race, color, religion, FOR CHANGE OF NAME sign. Shop around for rates. doned was filed on 3/7/2014 using the fictitious business sex, handicap, familial status That leaves many experts concerned about possible long-term Case No. 15796589 in the County of Alameda. name listed above. TO PLACE or national origin. IVPC does ramifications. CLASSIFIED AD not knowingly accept any The full name of Registrant: Signature of Registrants “Over the long run, there could be some pretty significant chal- SUPERIOR COURT OF Rebecca A. Beyers, 15080 :s/: John Philip Waters Call (925)243-8000 advertisements that are in CALIFORNIA, E. 14th St, San Leandro, violation of the law. lenges,” according to Raphael Bostic, Ph.D., of the University of COUNTY OF ALAMEDA Southern California’s Price School of Public Policy. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: “With so many of these trends, you can have your short-run gain but it is accompanied by long-run pain. We should all try to 1.Petitioner: be mindful of that.” Jennifer S. Stulen filed a petition with this court 2. Lack of affordable homes threatens the state’s future for a decree changing names A year ago, the percentage of California households who could as follows: afford to purchase a median-priced home in the state was 36 per- Present Name: cent. Today it is 29 percent. Even that figure looks good stacked Jennifer S. Stulen against the Bay Area’s market. The affordability index here is in Proposed Name: the very low 20s. Jennifer Scott Dayrell This trend concerns Bostic, who spent three years as chief policy 2.THE COURT ORDERS and research advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban that all persons interested in Development, before returning recently to USC. this matter appear before this “When I think about affordability, the first think I think is ‘do court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, we have an adequate supply?’ In many markets in California, the why the petition for change of answer is no.” name should not be granted. 3. Foreign buyers kept the high end hot Any person objecting to the name changes described While rising prices threaten the entry- and mid-levels of the above must file a written market, no such concerns seem to impede the upper-upper end. objection that includes the Asian buyers, along with the Hollywood elite and newly wealthy reasons for the objection at tech titans, continue to push up prices of high-end homes, especially least two court days before the matter is scheduled to in San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Los Angeles and Orange counties. be heard and must appear The top of the California market apparently has no ceiling. at the hearing to show cause 4. Cash was (still) king why the petition should not be granted. If no written Most of those foreign buyers paid cash. In all, 23 percent of all objection is timely filed, the home buyers paid cash this year. In many cases, those all-cash buy- court may grant the petition ers were competing against folks who needed to get a mortgage to without a hearing. purchase a home, giving them a distinct advantage. NOTICE OF HEARING In 2014, 66 percent of international buyers paid all-cash. That a. Date: 4/21/2016 trend continued throughout 2015, both because foreign buyers tend Time: 1:30 PM Dept: 503 to be wealthier and because they have a more difficult time obtain- b. The address of the court is: ing U.S. financing. Hayward Hall of Justice 5. Mortgage lenders eased up on credit – but not much 24405 Amador Street “Credit has eased very, very slightly from absurdly tight levels,” Room 108 Hayward, CA 94544 Laurie Goodman, Ph.D., told Realtor magazine. Goodman is the director of housing policy at the Urban Institute. 3.a. A copy of this Order To “Lenders needed clarity before they were going to be willing Show Cause shall be pub- lished at least once each to underwrite more risky loans, and they have not had that clarity. week “The good news is that everyone is aware they need it, and it is for four successive weeks beginning to happen very slowly.” prior to the date set for hearing on The average national default rate on mortgages in the months the petition in the following leading up to the collapse of the housing market was 12.5 percent. newspaper of general circu- In early 2015, the default rate was 40 percent of that at 5.7 percent. lation, printed in this county: The Independent Newspaper As of third quarter of this year, it has dropped even further to 5.45 2250 First Street percent. Livermore, CA 94550 6. Rents skyrocketed and demand climbed Dated: December 14, 2015 Rents increased “a staggering amount” in 2015, according to /s/: Winifred Y. Smith Bostic. Judge of the Superior Court “I don’t see any sign that is going to slow down.” The Independent Average monthly residential rates are 50 percent higher in Cali- Legal No. 3887 fornia than in other states. In many cases that means that, although Published December 24, 31, home prices are rising, they are not rising as quickly as rents. Many 2015, January 7, 14, 2016 current renters would be better off buying a home. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS “When you can borrow money at today’s fixed rates, you have NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 511960 locked in your housing cost for the rest of your life,” noted Michael The following person(s) doing Zagaris, CEO of Modesto-based PMZ Real Estate. business as: Wilkinson Road- However, the events of the past decade – along with the increased side Assistance, 6489 Aspen- burden of student loans – have made many renters skittish about wood Way, Livermore, CA 94551, is hereby registered taking the plunge. by the following owner(s): “People are still traumatized by what happened 10 years ago and Kristi Wilkinson, 6489 As- somehow think renting may be a better bet than owning. I think they penwood Way, Livermore, CA 94551 are going to regret having made that decision.” This business is conducted 7. Online listing companies continued to threaten the industry by an Individual and consumers The registrant began to trans- act business using the ficti- The merger of listings search giants Zillow and Trulia earlier tious business name(s) listed this year as well as the shift of Realtor.com to a shareholder-owned above on November 1, 2015. company have many in the industry concerned. Signature of Registrants :s/: Kristi Wilkinson “A lot of people interpret these things as ‘it’s a move toward be- This statement was filed with ing a broker,’ which is not the case,” said Zagaris. “Why on earth the County Clerk of Alameda would they go into the brokerage business when they can have all on November 24, 2015. Ex- the profits and none of the headaches and none of the liabilities?” pires November 24, 2020. The Independent Legal No. We no longer operate in a world in which real estate agents hold 3888. Published December listings as proprietary knowledge. Technology and the changing 24, 31, 2015, January 7, dynamics of the industry give consumers access to a wide world 14, 2016 of information. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Most agents and brokers are fine with that. The concern is that NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 512517 at some point these giant search engines may replace the consumer- The following person(s) doing oriented services they provide, much like the changes in the travel business as: Vandervision industry over the past decade. Digital, Inc., 4847 Hopyard Rd, Suite 4-225, Pleasan- That would leave buyers and sellers without expert guidance ton, CA 94588, is hereby through the various legal landmines inherent in even the smoothest registered by the following of real estate transactions. owner(s): Vandervision Digital, Inc., While do-it-yourself works OK most of the time in booking 4847 Hopyard Rd, Suite flights or finding a decent hotel that allows pets, the stakes in real 4-225, Pleasanton, CA 94588 estate are far higher. This business is conducted For more information about the year in real estate, contact your by a Corporation The registrant has not yet local Realtor today. begun to transact business Cher Wollard is a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeSer- using the fictitious business vices Drysdale Properties in Livermore. PAGE 12 - The Independent, DECEMBER 24, 2015 Las Positas College to Offer Code Hobbits for Youth With technology innova- doorbell or anti-theft jewelry ative problem-solving, com- tion and new ideas rapidly box. Tuition is $298 plus putational thinking, problem becoming the next big thing an $80 materials fee. All decomposition techniques, in product development, Las materials will be provided modules and profession- Positas College Community and students will take home al development tools like Education is offering two video files of their projects, PyCharm IDE and GitHub. courses in conjunction with which detail the idea, build- Students are required to Code Hobbits for youth this ing process and product bring their own Mac OS spring. demonstration. or Windows-based laptop "Code Hobbits believes The class will meet from with Macs requiring an In- that children need to be- 1 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. Feb. 6, tel chipset with OS 10.6 or come active creators of 20, 27, March 5, 12, 19, and higher and Windows laptops technology rather than pas- April 9 and 16, and from 1 with an Intel Core2 Duo sive consumers," explained p.m. to 4:50 p.m. on April processor with Windows Frances De Nisco, com- 23. 8 or higher and more than munity education program For children ages 11 to 4GB of RAM. Tuition for coordinator at Las Positas 15, Code Hobbits and Las Python Programming Level Photo - Doug Jorgensen College. "Community Edu- Positas College Commu- 1 is $688. Students (from left) Larry, Jared and Edith in the Green Engineering Academy at cation at LPC is excited to nity Education will offer an With a maximum stu- Livermore High School created demonstrated the device created to clean windows partner with Code Hobbits 11-week "Introduction to dent-to-staff ratio of 8:1, to residents Lois Dalgleish. to offer these classes." Python Programming Level Code Hobbits can individu- Children ages 10 to 13 1" course, meeting from 11 alize, customize and of- are invited to "Make Your a.m. to 12:50 p.m. on Jan. fer plenty of personalized, Own Electronic Gadgets." 23, 30, Feb. 6, 20 and 27, one-on-one time for each Green Engineering Academy Students The 11-week course, de- March 5, 12 and 19 and April student. Instructors include signed for beginners will 9, 16 and 23. industry professionals and teach circuit design, sen- This introductory level technology educators who Invent Custom Products for Seniors sors and actuators, logi- course requires no previous have a passion for technol- cal operations, problem Students and staff from the Green Engineering Academy at Livermore High School programming experience. ogy and a demonstrated skill decomposition techniques, traveled to the Watermark at Rosewood Gardens for an “Inventors Fair.” Students in the It will provide students a for teaching and inspiring collaboration skills, product Engineering Research and Design (ERD) class presented original engineering projects that broad programming foun- young learners. design workflow and design have been custom designed to meet the needs of the residents at Watermark Care Livermore. dation. Students will learn For more information or thinking. Students created custom products such as a window wiper mechanism to help one programming fundamentals, to register, please call (925) The class uses littleBits, senior clean the outside of her window, a spoon for a resident with Parkinson’s disease, variables, operators, data 424-1467 or visit www. an award-winning proto- a light indicator to help combat ‘pedal confusion’ (the phenomenon where the gas pedal types, program flow includ- laspositascollege.edu/com- typing tool to help students is mistaken for the break), and a custom 3D printed iPod case designed for residents suf- ing conditions, loops and munityed. create projects like a home fering from dementia. functions, data structures Las Positas College is security and alarm system, Each item went through an iterative process where the residents provided feedback to including lists, tuples and located at 3000 Campus Hill clapper machine, smart the student engineers. dictionary, algorithms, cre- Road in Livermore. The Engineering Research and Design course is the capstone course to the Green Engineering Academy at Livermore High School. At the Inventors Fair, Nancy Harrison, Executive Director of the Community introduced COVERED Watermark for Kids. (continued from page one) The Green Engineering Academy is a California Partnership Academy that incorporates integrated academic and career technical education, business partnerships, mentoring right here in the Tri-Valley Entity staffed with eight delays and submits it on and internships. The Academy serves approximately 175 students in 9th – 12th grades at have gotten health insurance certified counselors. January 20th, coverage will Livermore High School in the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District. for the first time through Garcia said that a com- begin on March 1st." Watermark for Kids is a non-profit organization committed to empowering underserved Covered California." mon misconception is that This year, Covered Cali- kids to express their character, leadership, creativity, compassion and spirit – to express Garcia recently spoke to the enrollment process is fornia began offering adult their true selves and thrive. a young mother who had too complicated or time- dental plans, which consum- separated from her husband. consuming. ers can buy as additions to "She had been receiving "This is not true. The on- their medical plans. Pedi- health insurance for herself line application is more user- atric dental coverage has and her children through friendly than ever before. been part of every Covered her ex-husband’s employer. There are plenty of ways to California plan since the She was afraid of what was find local, in-person help," beginning. going to happen after that he said. "Most people can "From 2015 onwards, coverage expired," he said. complete an application and open enrollment for Covered "She had never signed up for select a plan in an hour, and California will take place insurance on her own before, then they’re covered for the from November 1st through and wasn’t sure if she could rest of the year. Our insur- the end of January," said pay for it. She was relieved ance enrollment-counseling Garcia. "Special enrollment to hear that we could get service is free of charge. All is ongoing, which means her signed up for Covered of our counselors are certi- anyone with a life-changing California, and that the pre- fied by Covered CA, and we event such as insurance loss mium for her family plan offer bi-lingual services." or marriage, can enroll at would be affordable. This is Taking the steps to ac- any time. Also, people who exactly what the program is quire and maintain health have low incomes can enroll designed for – to give fami- coverage continues to gain in Medi-Cal or other public lies peace of mind." importance as tax penalties programs at any time." In the rapidly evolving for being uninsured increase. A Certified Enrollment health-care system, peace of "The penalty kicks in Counselor from Axis Com- mind is priceless. when a person or family munity Health will be on "Determining your fam- goes for more than three hand to provide in-person ily’s eligibility is always a consecutive months without assistance at the Pleasanton tricky process. While the insurance," said Garcia. "In Library on the 2nd and 4th Covered CA and Medi-Cal 2016, the penalty will be Friday of January, from 10 Members from Pan Am World Wings International’s Oakland Chapter donated bags eligibility rules seem simple $695 per adult and $347.50 a.m. to 1 p.m. A Counseler filled with new stuffed bears and other cuddly animals to provide a touch of comfort enough at first, families per child, up to a max of will also be at the Dublin for Hope Hospice (HH) patients. This group of former Pan Am flight attendants don’t always fit into the neat $2,085; or 2% of the person's Library every 1st and 3rd supports local charities, and has been buying bears for Hope Hospice patients for categories that the rules set or family’s income – which- Monday of the month from more than a decade. Staff members distribute the fluffy animals to patients who are out," said Garcia. "This is ever is greater." 1-4pm through the end of in need of a little extra TLC. Pictured (from left) are Jane Euler, president, Oakland why enrollment counselors The current open-en- January. Chapter Pan Am World Wings International; Cynthia Gassmann, RN, Hope Hospice are important: we can help rollment period began on To learn more, visit "Get (HH); Igrid Templeton, Pan Am World Wings International; Bernie Redding, HH; Jill people figure out how the November 1, 2015, and will Help" at www.coveredca. Biggs, HH; Patty Spriggs, HH; Bob Boehm, Hope Hospice CEO; and Gloria O’Brien- rules apply to their unique end January 31, 2016. com, or "Enrollment Servic- Patak, HH. situations." "If a person submits his es" at www.axishealth.org. Covered California, also or her application between called a health-benefit ex- the 1st and the 15th of the change or marketplace, is month, the coverage will be essentially a website, ex- active starting on the 1st of plained Garcia, adding, "It's the following month," said a website administered by Garcia. "If that person waits the state, where people can and submits an application learn about different insur- between the 15th and the ance programs in California, end of the month, coverage browse through plans, open will begin on the first of the an application, and find out month after the next. For ex- how to get local help in their ample, if someone submits community." an application on January Although the website is 10th, coverage will begin the most direct way to sign February 1st. If that person up for health insurance, local certified enrollers are avail- able to assist those needing help with navigating the process. Axis Community Health is a Covered Cali- fornia Certified Enrollment

Photo - Doug Jorgensen Walnut Drive in Pleasanton becomes Candy Cane Lane during the holidays. Houses along the street are decked out for the holidays.

Restaurant For Sale 10 EAST Kitchen & Tap House Open Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Turlock, CA. - $1,895,000 Join us for traditional lamb dishes 10EASTKitchenandtaphouse.com Kevin H. Donlon (209) 606-7308 Ready For Holiday Parties Visit Our Expanded Livermore Location DONLON REALTY 1770 First Street, Livermore | 925.243.1477 BR E01378612 casbahexotic.com THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION A

LVO Movie Night Metropolitan Opera's Italian Girl from Algiers to Be Screened Livermore Valley Opera's (LVO) Movie Night and Reception featuring the Metropolitan Opera's 1986 production of Rossinni's Italian Girl from Algiers will be held on January 20th at the Vine Cinema & Alehouse. The evening includes a reception at the Casbah Restaurant featuring Arabic appetizers from Algerian Cusine, and specialty wine pairings. This event is open to the general public, as well as Overture and Legacy members. The film selections include the witty, opera drama giocossa of an Italian Girl in Algiers, under the direction of Brian Large starring Lena Horn and Paolo Montarsolo, as well as an interest- ing, brief film clip of Emanuele Luzzati's animation of Rossinni´s overture. (continued on page 2)

Kyle Martin back at the Firehouse Arts Center in January. Performance Features Music of Billy Joel

Sold-out performances featuring Kyle Martin in “The to two hours prior to the performance, by phone at (925) World of Webber” debuted at Pleasanton’s Firehouse 931-4848, or in person at the Firehouse Arts Center Box Arts Center in 2013 to standing ovations. Martin returns Office, 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Box Office to the Firehouse on Saturday, January 9, at 8:00 p.m. hours are Wednesday-Friday, 12 noon-6:00 p.m.; Satur- with his hit production “JOEL!” day 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., and for two hours prior to the Fresh off the national tour of Billy Joel’s Tony performance. The entrance to free parking is on Spring Award-winning rock musical “Movin’ Out” in which Street near First Street. Martin starred as the “piano man,” Martin leads his band Martin made quite a name for himself among Broad- performing all the classic hits from Joel’s timeless reper- way and Rock fans as he traveled to over 100 cities star- toire, including Big Shot, Only the Good Die Young, ring as the “Piano Man” in two separate National Tours of An Innocent Man, and New York State of Mind to name the Tony Award-winning Billy Joel/Twyla Tharp musical just a few. smash “Movin’ Out.” The show is unusual in that, unlike Reserved seating tickets are $17.00 - $27.00. Tickets the traditional musical, it essentially is a series of dances may be purchased online at www.firehousearts.org up (continued on page 2) 2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Winners of 'There New Year of Speakers Series Begins Ought To Be a Law' with Spotlight on Phoebe Hearst Contest Announced Museum on Main welcomes wealthy patroness and local celebrity to Pleasanton in “An Evening with Phoebe Assemblywoman Catharine Baker (R-San Ra- Hearst” at the Firehouse Arts Center on Tuesday, January mon) announced that Alexander Lee (Foothill High 5th at 7pm in the evening. School), James Zeng (California High School), and Known as the “fairy godmother” wealthy patroness Steven Yuan (Dougherty Valley High School) have and local resident, Phoebe Hearst made a lasting impact been selected as the winners of the “There Ought on the Bay Area and cities from coast to coast. She was To Be A Law” video contest. The contest was open a philanthropist and benefactor to schools and museums, to all high school students in the 16th Assembly the first female regent for the University of California at District. As the contest winners, they will have the Berkeley, and co-founder of the organization known today opportunity to join Assemblywoman Baker at the as the Parent Teacher Association. Karen Harris takes the State Capitol to draft the bill, introduce it in the stage as Phoebe Hearst in this one woman stage perfor- California State Assembly, and receive recognition mance which is sure to sell out! by the Assembly. All events are general seating at the Firehouse Arts The group’s bill proposal focused on the need Center, 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Tickets are for mental health support in public schools. In their $10 General Admission, $7 Seniors (65+)/Students (with proposal, the group suggested providing districts valid ID), $5 Members. Tickets may be purchased online with more support for mental health counselors as at www.museumonmain.org, at Museum on Main during a solution to the problem. regular operating hours or by phoning the museum at For this contest, students were asked to identify (925) 462-2766. a problem impacting California that they believe Tickets purchased by phone and online will be avail- requires a legislative solution, and to propose a bill able for pick up at Will Call in the lobby of the Firehouse idea to address the issue. In a short two- to five- Arts Center on the evening of the event. Tickets may be minute video, contestants explained the problem available at the event subject to availability. Cash, check, that their bill addresses, how their bill would solve Visa and MasterCard accepted. it, and evidence to support the need for their pro- For more information on the Ed Kinney Speakers Se- posed legislation. Students were also encouraged to ries visit www.museumonmain.org or phone Museum on submit an optional essay component. Main at (925) 462-2766. Within their video or optional essay, students The Museum on Main is located at 603 Main Street were asked to address why the problem they in historic downtown Pleasanton. It is open to the public identified should be solved by our state govern- Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ment rather than our local or federal government, and Sunday from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. For more information about current exhibits and programs, visit the Museum’s the private sector, or non-profits, and how their Karen Harris as Phoebe Hearst. proposed legislation will be paid for. Students were web site at www.museumonmain.org or call (925)462- also reminded that their proposed law idea need 2776. not necessarily create a new program or regulation; rather, their idea could be to repeal, replace, or modify an existing law. Assemblywoman Baker’s office selected three finalists, whose videos were added to the Assem- MOVIE NIGHT MUSIC OF BILLY JOEL blywoman’s YouTube page (https://www.youtube. (continued from front page) (continued from front page) com/channel/UCJ34bT5Zp5hOFwfnD9ef_EA). Emanuele Luzzati is an Italian painter, production linked by a thin plot. None of the dancers sing. All the The public was given the opportunity to vote for designer, illustrator, film director and animator. He was vocals are performed by a pianist and band suspended their favorite video by clicking the YouTube “like” nominated for Academy Awards for two of his short on a platform above the stage while the dancers act button on the video they wanted to have win. When films, La gazza ladra (The Thieving Magpie) (1965) and out the narrative without dialogue, making the show, the contest closed on December 17th, Alexan- Pulcinella (1973). He incorporated elements of Tarot Card in essence, a rock ballet. Kyle out-performed over der, James, and Steven’s video received the most symbolism into his works and designed many sets for 30,000 people to nab the coveted role, and reviews like “likes,” thus winning the contest. several of Rossini's and Mozart's operas. “Dynamic,” “Spectacular,” and “A piano player with a Baker stated, “Our ‘There Ought To Be A Law’ The evening begins at 6 p.m. at the Casbah Mediterra- touch like Billy Joel,” are just some of the accolades he video contest received excellent submissions from nean Kitchen in Livermore, followed by the films at 7:30. received along his journey. high school students throughout Assembly District Tickets for both the reception and film are $25.00, for the This Firehouse concert is part of the Firehouse Caba- 16, and I would like to thank every student for film only $10.00. All LVO chorus members will receive a ret Series, produced by the Bay Area’s award-winning sharing great ideas, creating informative videos, special chorus member discount of 20% for the reception Esses Productions. and thinking critically about legislative solutions.” and film combination. Tickets are on sale at the LVO website at livermoreval- leyopera.com or call 462-6964. THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 3

Beichen says art had always been a major interest, but she found herself intimidated from discovering her own artistic self. This changed when she left China in the late 80’s, moving to the U.S. (Vermont) and pursuing a B.A. in Studio Arts. After returning to China she collaborated with her father for three years on a published collection of his works, and managed his gallery located in Shenzhen University. Upon returning to the U.S., Beichen’s art had to take a back seat to other business ventures, then re-awakened to a serious pursuit in the last several years with the estab- lishment of her own studio. For more information, contact Gallery Director: JFin- [email protected], or call the gallery: 925- 931-4849.

Saxophone II by Beichen Li Special Art Installations on New Year’s View at Firehouse Arts Center Eve The Harrington Gallery and Firehouse Arts Center present two special Winter Installations in the Firehouse Grand Atrium Lobby, and Main Floor Hallway Gal- lery. On display through January 9, 2016, are large- Roy Rogers scale triptychs with musical themes by Beichen Li, and & the small-format watercolors of “hidden” Pleasanton and San Delta Rhythm Kings Francisco by Marie Pascal. SPECIAL GUEST CARLOS REYES The public is invited to explore and enjoy the exhibits Thu DEC 31 8pm during Firehouse open hours: Wednesday through Satur- day, 12:00-5:00 p.m., Saturday 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. The Firehouse Arts Center is located in beautiful downtown Pleasanton at 4444 Railroad Avenue. Admission is free. Marie Pascal's detailed and intimate watercolor renderings are of scenes in Pleasanton and San Francisco. Not the “usual” locations, Pascal chooses interesting pan- oramas off the beaten path. Educated in Paris at the Ecole Nationale Superieure Arts Decoratifs, Pascal worked as a free-lance illustrator there in her native France in the 80’s. Muriel Anderson The Pirates of She relocated to the US in 1989, settling in Pleasanton. AWARD WINNING HARP Penzance Pascal has exhibited at numerous museums and fine arts GUITARIST TVRT galleries, including the Triton Museum (Santa Clara), Eb- Fri JAN 8 8pm JAN 16 — JAN 31 ert Gallery (San Francisco), and Los Gatos Art Museum. Location: Main Floor Hallway Gallery. Beichen Li’s large-scale triptychs of musical instru- ment montages are hung in the two-story high atrium gallery space. With their bold form, free strokes, and Blue City by Marie Pascal dramatic composition, Beichen says that her work is often influenced by her father, noted designer Ruisheng Li, who paintings. My paintings are the way that I view the world: The created opera and movie sets for the Communist state I use the color, lights, patterns and lines to express my Marc Cohn Wellington in China in the 60’s. She describes her methods: “I have feelings... creating whimsy and describing my own cul- GRAMMY AWARD WINNER International Ukulele WALKING IN MEMPHIS Orchestra taken thousands of photos, which I use as a source for my tural background.” paintings. I like to use details of realistic images found in Born in Ji-Lin province (formerly Manchuria) into a Fri JAN 22 8pm Thu JAN 28 7:30pm nature, landscapes or still-lifes, to convert into abstract family with a significant role in the public art of China, 925.373.6800 LVPAC.org 2400 First Street, Downtown Livermore 4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

A “Charlie Brown around Snoopy, to no Christmas” first appeared avail. And Pigpen, the New on CBS in 1965. The ani- dirtiest boy alive, and Plants mated television special Franklin don’t seem to was based on the popular by Sarah Bobson love anyone. There are or Added for comic strip “Peanuts” have been other char- created by Santa Rosa acters as well (Shermy, Annual resident Charles Schulz. Snoopy’s cousin Spike, Sale In the special, Charlie “Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown” Violet, Freda, Andy, Olaf, Brown is depressed, so Marbles, Belle, Rerun, Lucy, who prides herself the characters’ frustra- outstretched on either is receiving yet another Charlie Brown’s one-time Fertile Ground- on having an answer for tions and disappoint- side of his toy piano and publisher’s rejection let- girlfriend Peggy Jean, works has scheduled everything, suggests he ments and neurotic obses- fervently bangs away, ter. Anyone who has ever Lydia, and Charlotte its annual plant sale. The 2015 plant sale direct a school Christmas sions and yet manage to a miniature Beethoven labored over writing, Braun), many of them helped support both play. He takes her advice, laugh about it. Each time wannabee. I like Linus whether they’re a profes- lesser known, and some the Garden of Grace only to have the rest of Lucy, for example, holds because I’ve felt dur- sional or not, can sympa- of them phased out. and our Sustainable the gang ignore and mock the football and tempts ing one stressful time or thize with the following So it was a real treat School Garden Pro- him for it. Such is the lot Charlie Brown to kick it I another that hanging onto strip. In the first panel, when I recently vis- gram. Building on the of this sweet character feel like shouting, “Don’t a security blanket would Snoopy writes: “It was a ited the Charles Schulz who eternally believes do it, Charlie Brown. You feel awfully nice. I have dark and stormy night.” 2015 success, beans Museum in Santa Rosa and herbs are being in the good intentions of know what will happen. warm feelings for the In the second panel, to be able to see not only added to the list of others. That mean ‘ole Lucy will little yellow bird Wood- Linus reads the first line a collection of “Peanuts” seedlings offered this Since that animated swipe the ball away, just stock, who doesn’t speak, of the first page and says, comic strips but also to year to Fertile Ground- special, the Peanuts like she always does.” simply because his name “Your new novel has a learn how the characters Works volunteers and strip, which debuted in Charlie Brown, ever the is a constant reminder of very exciting beginning.” have evolved over time. supporters. optimist who wants to the famous music festival In the third panel, Linus newspapers on October My beloved Snoopy, for Most plants will believe Lucy can actually held in upstate New York hands the page back to 2, 1950, has given rise example, started out as a be sold as individual be trusted, extends his in 1969. Snoopy. And in the fourth to feature films, an off- regular pooch walking on seedlings in 3.5 inch foot and attempts to kick My favorite character and final panel, Linus Broadway musical, video all fours. In the early 50s, pots (tomatoes, the football. Of course, of all, though, is Snoopy, says, “Good luck with games, books, magazines, Lucy looked like a sweet cucumbers, peppers, stuffed animals, cof- Lucy pulls it away and that supremely confident the second sentence.” little girl, without the etc.), while beans, fee mugs, luggage tags, Charlie Brown slips little beagle who indulges Elegantly and simply put. angry eyebrows and big herbs and greens clothing, etc., as well as to the ground. I laugh, his fantasies. A veritable Snoopy is so desperate mouth. Charlie Brown will be offered in six dozens of television and uncomfortably. canine Walter Mitty, he to write anything at all, appeared more innocent, packs. Both the pots holiday specials. Huge The last “Peanuts” thinks he can do any- in fact, that in another undeveloped, babyish, and 6 packs will be balloons of one or more comic strip appeared thing and be anyone. In strip he writes a letter to not yet the character he sold for $3.00 each. Peanuts characters appear on February 13, 2000, psychological terms, we the IRS and asks them to would become. It was To access an order in every Macy’s Thanks- the day after Charles might say he suffers from remove his name from also delightful to see the form, visit fertile- giving Day Parade. In Schulz died at his home schizophrenic delusions. their mailing list. actual desk and draft- groundworks.org and 1969, after NASA astro- in Santa Rose. However, At times, he is a World I never tire of see- ing board where Charles order from the link nauts named the Apollo I continue to think of the War I flying ace in his ing Snoopy and Charlie Schulz spent hours every there. Descriptions 10 command module characters in the present Sopwith Camel (a.k.a. Brown and Lucy and the day creating scenarios of each varietal are “Charlie Brown” and the tense, as though I am still Snoopy’s doghouse) en- rest of the gang living that would make people included in the order lunar module “Snoopy,” getting my daily dose of gaging in victorious aerial what writer and poet laugh. “I’m obsessed with form. Snoopy the astronaut flew the homespun humor and combat with the notorious Raymond Carver drama- thinking of funny things,” Orders will be high above the Manhattan insight that Schulz put Red Baron. As Joe Cool, tized in his short stories the museum quotes him accepted through parade route. into his comics. I have he is hip and unflappable. as lives of quiet despera- as saying. This was the midnight on Saturday, Why has Peanuts been my favorite “Peanuts” But it is his persona as the tion. Marcie and Pepper- first museum I’ve visited January 23rd, 2016. so successful all these characters, of course. writer of the great Ameri- mint Patty love Charlie where so many people Order now, but years? Why is it consid- Charlie Brown is one of can novel that I love the Brown, but Charlie were laughing, their faces don't pay until plants ered by many to be the them, along with Schro- best. I delight seeing him Brown wants the Little aglow, as they walked are piced up on greatest comic strip of eder, Linus, and Wood- sit atop his doghouse Red-Haired Girl, who’s around the exhibits. Saturday April 16th all time? I believe it’s stock. I identify with with his portable type- never shown, to notice Such was the magic that from 9 am until noon because Schulz captured Schroeder because as a writer. There are various him. Charlie Brown’s Charles Schulz left us, at Garden of Grace in a few deftly drawn child I always wanted scenarios, but they all sister Sally loves blanket- that and phrases like (4743 East Avenue, lines and witty dialogue to play the piano, and amount to the same thing: clutching Linus, who “happiness is a warm Livermore). A lecture not only the pulse of the Schroeder is obsessed Snoopy is having trouble seems to prefer sucking blanket” and “the Easter on how to plan a gar- times but, more pro- with playing it. He sits writing, or he is pound- his thumb. Schroeder beagle. den will be presented foundly, the tragedy and on the floor with his ing away at yet another loves his piano. Wood- “Merry Christmas, the same day at 11a.m. comedy of human nature. chubby baby-fat feet hackneyed opening, or he stock twitters lovingly Charlie Brown.” in the same location. People can identify with THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 5

Photos provided by Richard Finn (left) and Jeff Kaskey

Heritage Guild Celebrated 100 Years of History at Duarte Garage

The Livermore Heritage Guild recently celebrated the After an triumphal auto parade down Market Street in autos would pull into the Duarte Garage, an important 100th anniversary of the Duarte Garage in Livermore, San Francisco before thousands of cheering residents, the stop for motorist traveling along the route. The mechanic located on what was once known the Lincoln Highway. Trail-Blazers returned to Indianapolis-by train. on duty would be asked to repair flat tires, overheated Around 75 people were in attendance including Mayor During the early years, a trip from the Atlantic to the radiators, broken transmissions, damaged fenders and John Marchand, Jeffrey Kaskey Livermore Heritage Pacific on the Lincoln Highway was, according to the bumpers. The garage was open for business seven days a Guild President, and Joel Windmiller President of the LHA's 1916 Official Road Guide, "something of a sport- week, No one could come from Oakland without having Lincoln Highway Association. Representatives of the ing proposition." The LHA estimated the trip would take car trouble according to Frank Duarte, the owner of the “Star” and “Durant” owners motor club were also present 20 to 30 days, but that assumed the motorist could aver- garage. In the summertime, with the small tires of that and brought cars from the 1920, which had been sold at age a driving time of 18 miles an hour. The motorist could era, they would have blowouts and drivers would have to the Duarte Garage at one time. expect the trip to cost no more than $5 a day per person. get new tires. The garage later became the distributor for Kaskey and Windmiller provided some historical per- That included everything (food, gas, oil), "even allow- Durant and Star Automobiles spective on the Duarte Garage and the Lincoln Highway. ing for five or six meals in hotels." Car repairs caused by Frank Duarte purchased the triangular lot at the end Some of the information provided during the event comes breakage or wear would, of course, increase the cost. of North L Street and fronting on the Dublin Road State from an article on the Lincoln Highway by Richard F. The LHA also sponsored short concrete "Seedling Highway on which he planned to build a garage. He Weingroff. Mile" object lesson roads in many locations (the first, learned the machinist trade in the east. At that time roads Their remarks included the following information: built in the fall of 1914, was just west of Malta, Illinois). were mostly still dirt. After he opened his garage, it would Frank H. Duarte established the Duarte Garage located They agreed on such features as a 110-foot right-of-way; be almost a decade before Henry Kaiser would begin on the corner of Portola Avenue and North L Street in a 40-foot wide concrete pavement 10 inches thick (maxi- quarrying gravel in the area. Rubber tires were beginning 1915. The garage, along with the cottage where the mum loads of 8,000 pounds per wheel were the basis to be reliable and engine technology was being refined. Duarte family lived, was adjacent to what was then the for the pavement design); minimum radius for curves An excerpt from the Daily Log of the First Transconti- Lincoln Highway, the first transcontinental highway. of 1,000 feet, with guardrail at all embankments; curves nental Motor Convoy dated Sept. 15, 1919, offered such Before highways were numbered, prior to 1926, they super-elevated (i.e., banked) for a speed of 35 miles per observations as, Departed Stockton 6:15 a.m. , , , drove all had common names. The Abraham Lincoln Memo- hour; no grade crossings or advertising signs; and a foot- over best section of entire Lincoln Highway. Two Rickers rial Highway was the grandest of them all.The Lincoln path for pedestrians. and Packard broke fan belts. . . unexcelled roads, made 76 Highway was the first transcontinental highway, run- The original 1913 alignment crossed over the Sierra miles in 9.75 hours, arrived Oakland 4 p.m. ning between Times Square, New York and Lincoln Park Nevada over Donner Summit on the north and Echo Sum- The City of Livermore took the land by eminent in San Francisco, often referred to as “The First Road mit to the South. Alignment meet in Downtown Sacra- domain in the 1970s intending to demolish the garage Across America” or “The Main Street of America." mento near Capitol Park. Headed south passing thru small and build a park. However, Anita Gandolfo, daughter of Having agreed on New York City and San Francisco towns of Elk Grove, Galt, Woodbridge, Lodi, Stockton. Paul Aguilino Caratti, rallied historian Janet Newton of as the termini, the Lincoln Highway founders wanted the Before heading east thru Banta, Tracy, Mountain House, the Heritage Guild who drafted many residents. They shortest, best, and most direct route possible between the Altamont, over Altamont Pass descending into Livermore convinced the city council to let the guild take on the two points. The highly publicized trip to San Francisco Valley. restoration and operation of the site. took 34 days - 34 days of mud pits in Iowa, sand drifts in The Lincoln Highway entered Livermore along First The Heritage Guild raised over $30,000 to restore the Nevada and Utah, radiators boiling over, flooded roads, Street crossing the railroad tracks, then turned right on garage. Today, the Duarte Garage and Lincoln Highway cracked axles, and enthusiastic greetings in every town Junction Avenue. Lincoln Highway passed to the north Museum provides an educational resource and asset for that thought it had a chance of being on the new highway. of the Duarte Garage where Portola Park is today. Ailing Livermore and the surrounding communities. 6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 Police Department, Students Participate to Make 'Shop with a Cop' a Success

On Saturday December and return to the Police 12th, twenty elementary Department to wrap their and middle school students presents. participated in the 7th “Shop with a Cop is annual "Shop with a Cop" a wonderful opportu- program. The students are nity for our community to picked up at their home by come together around the an off-duty police officer. holidays,” says Pat Avilla, They ride to Starbucks, Principal of Christensen which provides hot choco- Middle School. “This pro- late and pastries for all gram would not be possible twenty students and eleven without the generosity of officers. From Starbucks, our community, and the the caravan cruises to Wal- spirit of collaboration the Mart Livermore where they exists here in Livermore.” are greeted by the Granada "Shop with a Cop" High School Marching involves a partnership Band. between the Livermore Each participating stu- Valley Joint Unified School dent is given $125 to shop District and the Livermore for themselves and their Police Department. Funds families. Students from to support the program Granada High School’s are provided by Wal-Mart Leadership program assist- Livermore, and the Liver- ed the students and officers more Police Officer’s As- at Wal-Mart. Following the sociation. In-kind support shopping excursion, the provided by Emil Villa’s students and officers have Restaurant and Starbucks. breakfast at Emil Villa’s Program helps make holidays merry. Global Healing Labyrinth Walk Planned in Livermore To honor the 25th anniversary of the Chief Big Foot Ridge Indian Reservation in the U.S. state of South Da- Band Memorial Ride and the 125th anniversary of the kota. For the past 25 years, Native American people have massacre at Wounded Knee, join a Global Healing Laby- been riding, running and walking the route that Chief rinth Walk at the Bankhead Theater on December 29 at 12 Bigfoot followed with his people, before they were mas- Tri-Valley Haven serves adults and children who have noon. sacred at the site of Wounded Knee. experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, or The Wounded Knee Massacre occurred on December Join facilitator Jan Mahood, who brings the laby- 29, 1890, near Wounded Knee Creek on the Lakota Pine homelessness. As a non-profit organization, they must rinth to the Bankhead Theater, in walking in support rely upon the generosity of individual donors, as well of the Native American Elders Global healing event. “The labyrinth is an ancient method of focusing inner as grants, to ensure they can meet the ever-increasing thoughts,"explains Mahood. “It is way to reflect quietly demand for services. The Pleasanton Newcomers Club and offer prayers and healing thoughts. This is an open has supported Tri-Valley Haven for many years. Pictured event to the public and we welcome all those who would are Club President Nancy Whipple presenting a check like to join us in this worldwide healing event.” to Tri-Valley Haven's newest Volunteer Director Lynne This event honors all who have fallen not only at Menon, at the club's annual holiday luncheon. Club Wounded Knee, but all who have fallen in global conflict. members also donated new Christmas gifts, clothing, The labyrinth walk creates a Global Wide Ceremony toys and household items. The Pleasanton Newcomers together wherein we begin the sacred journey to redress Club is a social organization open to all residents of and heal our multigenerational wounds. The event at the the Tri-Valley area. Vommunity involvement is a priority Bankhead Theater is free and open to the public. The Bankhead Theater is located at 2400 First Street, Liver- throughout the year. more. The labyrinth walk takes place Tuesday, December 29 from 12 – 1 pm. For questions on this event, email Jan Mahood at [email protected]. For more information on the Global Healing Labyrinth Walk Healing Hearts at Wounded Knee & the World visit http://healingheartsatwoundedknee.com/global/ THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 7 Quote Inspires Dublin Songwriter to Compose a Song about Refugees

By Carol Graham Reading the newspaper over breakfast one morning, Carl Tilchen came across a quote that would inspire him to write a song dedicated to refugees. "Imagine for a second it were you, your child in your arms, the world you knew torn apart around you," said Jean-Claude Juncker, president of the European Commission. "There is no wall you would not climb, no sea you would not sail, no border you would not cross." Tilchen said, "When I read that quote, I was inspired to compose a song with the hope that many people, especially the decision-makers in government who Juncker was trying to influence, will welcome the refugees and help them." Juncker's September 9th State of the Union address, titled "Time for Honesty, Unity and Solidarity," urged the European Union, a politico-economic union of 28 member states located primarily in Europe, to make the refugee crisis a top priority. "Since the beginning of the year, nearly 500,000 people have made their way to Europe," Juncker said. "The vast majority are fleeing from war in Syria, the terror of the Islamic State in Libya, or dictatorship in Eritrea. "This is first of all a matter of humanity and of human dignity. And for Europe it is also a matter of historical fairness. We Europeans should remember well that Europe is a continent where nearly everyone has at one time been a refugee. Our common history is marked by millions of Europeans fleeing from reli- Carl Tilchen gious or political persecution, from war, dictatorship, and other war-torn countries. I would like to take this or oppression." opportunity to sincerely thank you for this very original The message struck a chord with Tilchen, a singer and thoughtful gesture. Your engagement to support and songwriter who lives in Dublin, Calif. those in need in our societies is highly appreciated." " . . . no matter "First I composed the lyrics, then I began to sing In that, Tilchen achieved what he'd set out to ac- them along with my guitar," said Tilchen, noting some complish. how many soldiers' of the song's lyrics: "'Can you imagine, with your wife "My song is only to make our world a better place," guns - you’ll by your side, no matter how sharp the razor wire, no said Tilchen. "I hope that the refugees will become matter how small your rubber boat, no matter how successful in their new lands, and that my song will leave the war, many soldiers' guns - you’ll leave the war, to find inspire all of us to help them." peace?'" To hear the song, visit www.youtube.com/ to find peace?" Tilchen recorded the song at the Freight & Salvage watch?v=mB6gBIPDvWU. To join Tilchen's mailing Coffeehouse in Berkeley during a West Coast Song- list, email [email protected]. writers' competition, and posted it on YouTube. On November 28th, he sent a link to the song to the man who had inspired its message, Jean-Claude Juncker, telling him, "Your words and feelings became the inspirational foundation of my song." Juncker responded, "Thank you very much for your e-mail in which you inform me that you have turned my State of the Union speech into a song entitled 'Can you Imagine?' in honor of the refugees fleeing Syria 8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

ART/PHOTO EXHIBITS Date: 2/24/16/ Deliver to Building practice. No admission charge. Artists bring their own materials Livermore Art Association Gallery, 300 between noon - 5 at Las Posi- Livermore Art Association Annual and easels. Open to all artists. located in the Carnegie Building, tas College. Guidelines: Subject of Holiday Boutique, now through Professional artist models (nude). offers art classes, unusual gifts, every piece must be of a woman or December 31. Handmade items, No instructor. Students under 18 painting rentals, art exhibits and women. It must arrive framed in a one of a kind gifts include jewelry, need written parental permission information pertaining to the art black 16 x 20 frame with hardware hand crafted scarves, towels, bas- to attend. Cost $20 per session. field, 2155 Third St., Livermore. on the back (use D-rings) ready to kets, wooden bowls, photographs, Bothwell Arts Center, 2466 8th The gallery has been open since hang. Label on the back with title, fine art. LAA Gallery in the old St., Livermore. Coffee, tea and 1974 and is run as a co-op by pertinent process, for example: Carnegie Library, 2155 Third St. refreshments are available. Call local artists. Hours are Wed.-Sun. "on fiber paper" or "cyanotype" in Livermore. Wednesday through or e-mail Barbara Stanton for 11:30-4 p.m. For information call "digital photography" "B & White Sunday, 11:30 to 4:00. Admission more info about the workshop, 449-9927. film"; artist name and price. Hang is free. 925-373-9638 - microangelo@ Members of the Pleasanton Art Day: 3/1. Art Show will be hung in Artists at Work, a new monthly earthlink.net. League Public Art Circuit are Building 2400. event, the second Thursday Preschool Art classes: Thursday currently exhibiting art at six busi- Special Winter Exhibits: On view of each month features a new mornings 9:45 – 10:45. Children nesses in the Pleasanton - Dublin through January 9, 2016. The artist and artists at work at the aged 3-5 are welcome to join this Area. Viewing locations are: Bank Harrington Gallery and Firehouse Livermore Downtown Art Studios, class. Classes cover drawing, Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra performs Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m. at of America at 337 Main Street, Arts Center present works by two 62 So. L St., Livermore. painting, print-making, sculp- the Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Tickets or information at Pleasanton; Pleasanton Chamber distinct artists in the public exhibi- Show and Tell, Artists are invited to ture and ceramics. For further www.bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. of Commerce at 777 Peters Street, tion areas. Marie Pascal (Hallway a monthly function at the Bothwell information, contact Thomasin 7:00 at The Corner Bakery Cafe is for beginners and the artist Pleasanton; Sallman, Yang, & Gallery): Exquisite small format Arts Center, called “Show & Tell. Dewhurst at (925) 216-7231 or in Pleasanton. Join us as we who wants to improve drawing Alameda CPA's at 4900 Hopyard watercolor paintings of both San 4th Tuesday of each month at 7:00 [email protected] or visit challenge ourselves to poeti- techniques. Classes start with Road, Pleasanton; US Bank at 749 Francisco and Pleasanton scenes. p.m. at the Bothwell Arts Center, http://childrensartclassesprojects. cally relay our thoughts, emotions the basics and quickly focuses Main Street, Pleasanton; Edward Pascal is currently a Pleasanton 2466 Eighth St., Livermore. Artists blogspot.com/ and experiences through poetry. on nature drawing. Included- Jones at 6601 Dublin Boulevard, resident, who was educated at the bring finished or unfinished work Art Classes, For children, teens and Become a member & share your instruction on site techniques, Dublin; and The Bagel Street Café Ecole Nationale (Paris) and has to show and if desired, receive a adults. Beginner to advanced. work - Contact PoetryOnCanvas@ three dimensional development, at 6762 Bernal Avenue Pleas- exhibited in numerous museums critique from the group. Refresh- Drawing, painting, printmaking, Mac.Com for more info on Theme and composition. Starts Wed, Jan​ anton. If interested in becoming and fine galleries. Beichen Li ments are brought by some of the sculpture and ceramics taught by Challenges, Membership & Op- 6th, 12:30-3 p.m. for 5 weeks. a member of the Pleasanton Art (Grand Lobby Gallery): Large-scale artists, and a donation of $5.00 is highly experienced artist and art portunities. Instructor Maryann Kot, Location, League or for information regarding triptychs of musical instrument desired although not mandatory. instructor, Thomasin Dewhurst. Ukulele Circle, Meetings held the Bothwell Arts Center 2466 8th St. the Public Art Circuit, call John montages are hung in the two- Contact for this event is D’Anne Weekday and weekend classes, last Saturday from 12 noon-1 p.m. Livermore Sign up at Way Up Art Trimingham at (510) 877-8154. story gallery space. The public is Miller at [email protected], or Home school classes, Special at Galina’s Music Studio located at and Frame 925-443-3388 Artwork Showing: Espresso invited to explore and enjoy the ex- Linda Ryan at LRyan@Livermore- classes during school breaks 1756 First St., Livermore. Confirm Drawing Class- "Intermediate Rosetta Coffee Shop, 206 S. J St., hibits during Firehouse Arts Center performingarts.org offered. (925) 216-7231 or email participation by calling (925) Drawing: Focus on Nature" This Livermore, (corner of J Street and open hours. Wednesday, Thursday, ACC/Art Critique & Coffee, Discuss [email protected] for 960-1194 or via the website at class is for students who have 2nd Street). Works by Lisa Rigge Friday from 12:00-5:00 p.m.; and share work with Professional further info. www.GalinasMusicStudio.com. taken basic drawing classes and and Maryann Kot. Experience Lisa Saturday 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Artists in sketching, painting, ex- Piano and keyboard lessons, For Beginners are welcome. Bring want to go to the next level of Rigge’s fall color photographs and 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. hibiting and marketing your work. children to adult. Beginner to some music to share with the drawing realistic nature subjects. Maryann Kot's archival reproduc- Donations always appreciated. For ACC members currently working early intermediate level. Half-hour group. Ukuleles are available for Starts Thurs, Jan 7th, 12:30 to tions of original art in the friendly more information, contact Gallery on exhibiting theme works, under private classes or small group purchase. Small $10 fee to cover 3 p.m. for 5 weeks. Instructor atmosphere of the new coffee Director: JFinegan@cityofpleas- the Inspiration of "The Artist's classes offered. Twice-yearly meeting costs. Maryann Kot, Location, Bothwell shop, Espresso Rosetta, in down- antonca.gov, or call the gallery: Edge /The Edge of Art & Chosen recitals. (925) 216-7231 or email Young Artists’ Studio has openings Art Center 2466 8th St. Livermore. town Livermore. The work will be 925-931-4849. Pathways." Meets and Critiques [email protected] for in its 2015 - 2016 school year art Sign up, Way Up Art and Frame on display through Dec. 31st. Pleasanton Art League members Friday mornings in Pleasanton. further info. classes. Artist Peggy Frank offers 925-443-3388 Pleasanton Art League All Media show, Imagination Expressed [email protected] PPL/Pleasanton Poetry League, small group instruction in art to Show, Dec. 1-30, Robert Livermore 2016, Jan. 13 to Feb. 28 at the Figure Drawing Workshop, every now meeting the 1st Thursday and students ages 7 through high WINE & SPIRITS Community Center, 4444 East Pleasanton Museum on Main, 603 Friday 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 3rd Wednesday of each month Ave., Livermore. Main St., Pleasanton. Reception school and also is offering an adult Las Positas Vineyards, Livermore, "Mendocino Memories," art exhibit Jan. 24, 2 to 4 p.m. class. Projects include all kinds of Sat., Dec. 26, "Elite Flight," a will be on view from December East Meets West, 10th annual drawing, painting, printmaking and Chocolate Truffle & Chocolate Port 1-30 at the Livermore Civic exhibit, Livermore Civic Center sculpture. High school students Cup featuring our 2012 Casimira, Center Library, 1188 So. Livermore Library Art Gallery, Jan. 2-23. working on advanced portfolios are a Angelica style dessert wine Avenue. The public is invited to Reception 12:30 to 4 p.m. on Sat., welcome. Peggy has been an art that is served inside a Chocolate the free art exhibit reception on Jan. 9. 1188 S. Livermore Ave., instructor in the Livermore Valley Port Cup. Sun., Dec. 27, "Sunday Sunday, Dec. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. Livermore since 1980. Contact her at (925) Funday" newest Holiday Wine & at the Library. Refreshments will Allied Artist West, Jan. 14-Feb. 443-8755 or email frank.a@ Food Flight: Cheesecake Cupcake be served. 20. Harrington Gallery, Firehouse comcast.net. & Chocolate Port Cup paired up Simply Seeing photographic show, Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Colored Pencil - Basics and with wines. Tasting room is open Bankhead Theater. 2400 First St., Pleasanton. Work by a group of 22 Beyond - Classes are for begin- 11:30am to 4:30pm. For more through January 4, 2016. Invited South Bay artists. Reception, Jan. ners and intermediate students. information, email curt@las- photographers include Ken Ball, 14, 7 to 9 p.m. Classes start Mon Jan​​ 4th, 9:30​ to positasvineyards.com. The tasting Walter Davies, Marc Davis, Sherry noon for five weeks and Tues Jan​​ room will be open Mon., Dec. 29, Hennes, Jonathan Miller, Chuck MEETINGS/CLASSES 5th, 6:30 to 9 p.m. for five weeks. 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., closed McGregor, Jennie McGregor, Rahul Pleasanton Art League, Livermore Instructor Maryann Kot, Location, Wed., Dec. 30-Jan. 1, reopening Prasad, Lisa Rigge and Ron Rigge. Art Association, meeting 7:30 Bothwell Art Center 2466 8th St. Jan. 2, 2016. www.bankheadtheater.org p.m. Jan. 11 at the Cultural Arts Livermore. Sign up, Way Up Art and Frame 925-443-3388 MUSIC/CONCERTS Celebrate Women 2016! call for Building, 4455 Black Ave., Pleas- Ambrosia performs at 8 p.m., Jan. 22 and 23 at the Firehouse Arts Center, artists for this photographic art anton. Program by Irene Carvajal, Drawing Class- "Basic Drawing: Blacksmith Square, music every 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Information and tickets at www. Focus on Nature" This class Saturday 3 to 6 p.m. in the court- competition. Submission Delivery incorporating printmaking into your firehousearts.org or 931-4850. THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 9

yard, 21 South Livermore Ave., Orchestra, Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m. org, 931-4850. MOVIES member-centered book group Classroom, Dublin Heritage Park Livermore. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., The Snowpiercer (movie), 7:30 led by a small group of book club and Museums, 660 Donlon Way, Chris Bradley's Jazz Band ap- Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. COMEDY p.m., Jan. 13, Firehouse Arts veterans, with reading selections Dublin. www.DublinRecGuide.com. pears regularly at: The Castle org or 373-6800. The Big Fat Year End Kiss-Off Center, 4444 Railroad Avenue, based on member recom- An Evening With… Phoebe Rock Restaurant in Livermore/ Elton John’s Greatest Hits, Jan. 29, Comedy Show XXIII: Firehouse Pleasanton. www.firehousearts. mendations and consensus. No Hearst: Tuesday, January 5th, on Portola Avenue-- the 2nd and 8 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 Arts Center in Pleasanton, Sunday, org, 931-4850. homework required– share your 7pm. Museum on Main Ed Kinney 4th Tuesday each month from First St., Livermore. www.bank- December 27, 8:00 p.m. A insights or just listen in! Contact Speakers Series, Firehouse Arts 7:30-9:30--Dance floor, full bar, headtheater.org or 373-6800. celebration of the good, the bad, MISCELLANEOUS Susan at 337-1282 regarding the Center, 4444 Railroad Avenue, small cover. and the ugly of 2015. Stand-up, Political Issues Book Club meets We’re Talkin’ Books! Club. Pleasanton. Tickets are $10 Roy Rogers and the Delta Rhythm ON THE STAGE improvisation and loosely written the 4th Tuesday of each month, Storied Nights: An Evening of general admission, $7 seniors Kings, 8 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 31, Beyond the Horizon will be pre- sketches guaranteed to mock, and reads books about issues and Spoken Word. 2nd Thursday (65+) / students (with valid ID), followed by a gala reception in the sented in a staged reading as part scoff and taunt with taste. Starring trends that are driving current of each month. Features local $5 members. Tickets may be theater lobby. Bankhead Theater, of the Eugene O’Neill Foundation’s political satirist Will Durst, Debi affairs in both the national and authors reading their work 7:30 to purchased online at www.museu- 2400 First St., Livermore. www. Playwrights’ Theatre series on Sat- Durst, Michael Bossier, Johnny international arenas. Topics that 9 p.m. at Peet's Coffee and Tea, monmain.org, at Museum on Main bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. urday, January 9 at 8:00 p.m. and Steele, Mari Magaloni and Arthur have been covered include politics, 152 So. Livermore Ave., Livermore. during regular operating hours or Muriel Anderson, 8 p.m. Fri., Jan. Sunday, January 10 at 2:00 p.m. Gaus. (PG-13) Reserved seating governance, economics, military Sponsored by LVPAC and Peet's. by phoning the museum at (925) 8, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First at the Museum of the San Ramon tickets are $20.00 - $30.00; avail- affairs, history, sociology, science, Information go to http://facebook. 462-2766. For more information Street, downtown Livermore. www. Valley, 205 Railroad Avenue, in able at www.firehousearts.org, the climate, and religion. Contact com/StoriedNights on the Ed Kinney Speakers Series bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. Danville. Reservations for Beyond 925-931-4848, or at the center Rich at 872-7923, for further Dublin Schools, 1915, 1950 and visit www.museumonmain.org or JOEL: A Tribute to the Songs of the Horizon are available online Box Office, 4444 Railroad Avenue, questions Today, special exhibit, Oct. 17 phone Museum on Main at (925) Billy Joel featuring Kyle Martin at www.eugeneoneill.org, or by Pleasanton. We’re Talkin’ Books! Club is a through January 2016. Little 462-2766. and his band. Saturday, January phone at (925) 820-1818. Tickets 9, 8:00 p.m. Kyle Martin performs are $25. Seating at the Museum all the hits from Joel's timeless is limited. repertoire, including songs like Big The Pirates of Penzance, weekends Shot, Only the Good Die Young, Jan. 16 through 31. Bankhead An Innocent Man, and New York Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Mount Diablo Rose Society to Host Special Guest Speaker State of Mind. Martin and band Tickets at the box office, www. A Rose Celebrity east coast, will be speaking copies of the book will be Botanical Garden for his are blazing hot, and will have bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. you on your feet and rocking out! Good People by David-Lindsay- Speaks at the Mount Dia- at the Mount Diablo Rose available for purchase. work with roses. Reserved seating tickets: $17.00 - Abaire, Jan. 29-Feb. 14. Role blo Rose Society Society (www.mtdiabloro- A self-described gar- In addition to his talk at $27.00. Purchase online at www. Players Ensemble production, Mount Diablo Rose sesociety.org) on Wednes- dener, rosarian, historian, the Mount Diablo Rose So- firehousearts.org, 925-931-4848, Tickets and Information at www. Society will host a rose ce- day, January 13 at 7:30 PM author, and raconteur, ciety, Stephen will also be or at the center Box Office, 4444 RolePlayersEnsemble.com. The lebrity at its January meet- at the Dublin Civic Center Stephen began his rose holding two pruning clinics Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton Village Theatre, 233 Front Street, ing. Stephen Scanniello, Regional Room (100 Civic career at the Cranford Rose on climbing roses at the Yale University, The Musica Vera Danville. Duo will perform at the Livermore Disney's The Little Mermaid, Pacif- the curator of the Peggy Plaza, Dublin) about his Garden of the Brook- Sacramento Historic Rose Civic Center Library on Sunday, ic Coast Repertory Theatre, 2 and Rockefeller Rose Gar- latest book A Rose By Any lyn Botanic Garden and Garden (1000 Broadway, January 10, 2016, 2pm. The Duo 8 p.m., Jan. 30-Feb. 14, Firehouse den at the NY Botanical Name, which reveals the transformed it into one of Sacramento) on Saturday, will perform an eclectic program Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Avenue, Garden and gardener to the stories behind rose names. the world’s most acclaimed January 16 at 9 AM and 1 comprised of musical selections Pleasanton. www.firehousearts. stars and notables on the Personally autographed rose gardens. Since leav- PM. arranged for viola and guitar. The ing the Cranford in 1998, As he literally wrote Livermore Civic Center Library is located at 1188 S. Livermore he co-authored 5 books, the book called Climbing Avenue. Admission is free. became the President of the Roses, Stephen will di- The Special Consensus, 8 p.m., Heritage Rose Foundation, vulge and demonstrate the Jan. 15, Firehouse Arts Center, and creates and maintains secrets to pruning climbing 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. private and public rose roses. www.firehousearts.org, 931-4850. gardens. Both events are open to Castro Valley High School: An He is the recipient of the public and are free of Evening of Blues, Jazz & Funk! 7 p.m. Jan. 17, Amador Theater, numerous awards – the charge. 1155 Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton. 2008 Zone IV Horticulture www.firehousearts.org, 931-4850. Commendation Award, Marc Cohn, Grammy Award winner, Great Rosarian of the 8 p.m. Fri., Jan. 22. Bankhead World Award in 2009, Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. the 2013 Garden Club TRAVEL www.bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. of America Jane Righter Ambrosia, 8 p.m., Jan. 22 and 23, Rose Medal, the American BUG Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Rail- Horticultural Society's road Avenue, Pleasanton. www. Annual Book Award in Cruise from firehousearts.org, 931-4850. 1998 with his book A Year San francisco Piano Duet: Tamriko Siprashvili Of Roses, a 2015 Garden & Temirzhan Yerzhanov, 8 p.m., (925) 447-4300 Jan. 23, Amador Theater, 1155 Club of America Honorary Stephen Scanniello, the curator of the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden at the NY Member, and in October In Downtown Livermore Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton, www. 2269 Third Street firehousearts.org, 931-4850. Botanical Garden, will be the guest speaker. 2015 honored, along with www.travelbuglivermore.com Wellington International Ukulele Julie Andrews, by the NY 10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

(Organizations wishing to run notices 5353 Sunol Blvd, Pleasanton. This class open at 7:00 p.m. talk starts at 7:30 pm. [email protected] or (925) 443-2330 in Bulletin Board, send information to PO is for adults who have pre diabetes or For more info visit us @ http://www. or Roy Warner at 925-449-6048. Box 1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care have concerns and want to learn more. trivalleystargazers.org/ Pleasanton Lions Club welcomes of Bulletin Board or email information Call 510-383-5185 to register. Requires Ravenswood Historical Site, 2647 visitors to come experience a great time to [email protected]. Include 5 people registered for class to be held. Arroyo Road, Livermore, Docents in 1890s while making a difference in our commu- name of organization, meeting date, Volunteer bingo callers, needed for costumes give free guided tours beginning nity & beyond. Dinner meetings every 2nd time, place and theme or subject. Phone Fridays, 1 to 3:45 p.m. at the Livermore at noon, on the second and fourth Sun- & 4th Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm. number and contact person should also Senior Center. Friday bingo is currently days of the month. Each tour includes the The Regalia House, 4133 Regalia Ct., be included. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday.) shutdown due to lack of volunteers. To 1885 Cottage and the 1891 Main House, Pleasanton. www.pleasantonlionsclub.org Widowed Men and Women of volunteer, stop by the Robert Livermore and the beautifully landscaped grounds. Assistance League® of Amador Northern CA, Dec. 31, 1 p.m. luncheon, Community Center, 4444 East Ave., Liver- For information on the Ravenswood Valley invites all visitors to join this Call Hilda, 398-8808 as soon as possible more and fill out an application or call the Progress League (RPL) or the volunteer dedicated group of volunteers, reaching to discuss options for restaurants. Senior Venter, M-Th, 373-5760. Docent Program, please call the Docent out to those in need in the Tri-Valley and Labyrinth walk New Year’s Eve Crab Feed, Feb. 27, 2016. The Coordinator at (925) 443-0238. having fun doing it. Regular meetings are from 7:30 – 10:00 pm. First Presbyterian Livermore High School Alumni Assoc. is Sons in Retirement (SIR) is a social held on the third Thursday of the month Church, 2020 Fifth St., Livermore. Hosted producing its 4th Annual Crab Feed to group of retired men who join together to at 7 p.m. at the Parkview, 100 Valley by Presbyterian Women. Dress warmly benefit the students, faculty & admin- better enjoy their leisure time. Activities Ave., Pleasanton. For more information, and join us in walking the outdoor, Char- istrators of LHS. Each year the LHSAA include golf, bridge, photography, travel, see our website, www.amadorvalley. tresstyle, courtyard labyrinth. Stay for hot funds numerous request from LHS to fishing, biking, wine tasting, and technol- assistanceleague.org, e-mail assistance- apple cider and light desserts or enjoy provide items/programs that are no longer ogy. The Tri-Valley Branch serves men liv- [email protected], or call some quiet time in the candle lit sanctu- in their budget. LHSAA invites all to take ing in Pleasanton, Dublin, Livermore, and (925) 461-6401. ary afterwards. Everyone is welcome. part in the Crab Feed and both Live and San Ramon. The group meets for lunch on Operation: SAM “Supporting All Dress a Girl Around the World, Silent Auctions Fundraiser. Go to www. the first Thursday of each month at the Military” is a 501(c)3 non profit military an invitation to make simple dresses livermorehighalumni.com for additional San Ramon Golf Club, 9430 Fircrest Lane, support organization based in Livermore. for girls in third world countries. Next information, email lhsalumniassoc@ San Ramon. Please read more about the S.A.M. has been in operation since Janu- Sew-Fest is Jan. 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. gmail.com or call Ray 925-606-5518. Tri-Valley SIR at http://sirs34.org/ and ary 2004. It is dedicated to the continued at St. Augustine Hall, Pleasanton. Help Free high school level math help the Statewide SIR at www.sirinc.org/. For morale support of deployed troops. For is needed sewing, ironing, cutting. Bring offered at Pleasanton Library for students information or to attend a meeting, call information or donations, visit www. sewing machine or serger, iron, ironing who cannot afford tuition. Contact 925- Rich Osborne 925-785-3549. operationsam.org, email operationsam@ board, scissors, along with helping hands. 484-1073. NAMI Tri-Valley Parent Resource comcast.net or call 925-443-7620. (Those planning to stay all day should Learn Scottish country dancing & Support Group meets monthly for Depression and Bipolar Support bring a bag lunch.) Always accepting in Livermore. Enjoy the lively reels and parents/caretakers of children ages Alliance (DBSA) Pleasanton, meets cheerful cotton fabric donations. Those jigs and graceful strathspeys that are 5-17 years with (or suspected of having) Wednesdays 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. St. Clare's who can’t make the Sew-Fest but would the traditional social dance of Scotland. emotional/ psychiatric disorders. It meets Episcopal Church, 3350 Hopyard Rd., like to sew, arrange for kits that can be Mondays 8:00 to 9:30 pm at the Liver- the third Tuesday of the month from Pleasanton (not affiliated with the church. sews at home. Questions? Suzanne Beck, more Veteran’s Hall, 522 South L Street, 7-9pm at Pathways to Wellness, 5674 Information at www.dbsalliance.org/ 925-352-8447 or [email protected] Livermore. No prior dance experience Stoneridge Dr., Suite 114, Pleasanton. The pleasanton or contact chapter leader, Al The Livermore-Amador-Genealog- required. Call Margaret Ward at (925) group is drop-in and free. Contact person Pereira, 462-6415. ical Society meets Jan. 11, 7:30 p.m. at 449-5932 or Sheena MacQueen at (925) is Marsha McInnis at 925-980-5331. Shepherd's Gate Thrift Store, Congregation Beth Emek in Pleasanton. 447-1833 for more information. Youth Sons in Retirement (SIR) is a group 1362 Railroad Avenue, Livermore. Open Calendar Features the Wonders Ted Shapas will speak to the question class (ages 8 and up): Contact Sheena for retired men who seek activities to en- Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Last “What to do with all these photos.” In MacQueen (925)447-1833 for info. hance their retirement. Monthly meetings Friday of every month 50% off most of of Sycamore Grove Park this talk, Ted will address some simple Questers is an international organi- feature lunch and an interesting speaker. the store sale. For more information visit ways to manage an image collection so zation of lovers of antiques, collectibles, Men have the opportunity to learn about www.shepgate.org/holiday Sycamore Grove Park’s natural wonders can be seen family members can identify, find, archive and history who encourage preservation and join activities such as hiking, bridge, Bereaved Mother’s Network of and enjoy theses very import aspects and restoration of historical land- investment, bowling, bocce ball and wood the Tri-Valley meets the first Tuesday of every day of the year – whether or not you are able to of your family history. All are welcome marks. At chapter meetings, members carving. There is also a neat group of each month, 7:00 - 8:30 pm, Livermore make it out to the park. and no charge. For more information learn about antiques, share and view guys to get to know. SIR Branch #121 Civic Center Library, Small Conference The Sycamore Grove calendar, in its eighth year of cont act the Program Chairs by e-mail: member’s collections, visit historic sites, meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month Room. The aim of the network is to allow production, is designed by the Livermore Area Recre- “[email protected]. museums and antiques shops and help at the DoubleTree Hotel, Las Flores Road bereaved mothers to make connections ation and Park District park ranger staff. All photos are Diabetes Self Management Classes non-profit organizations with restoration (near Bluebell Drive), Livermore, at with, share resources, and support other in Dublin, offered by Alameda County and preservation work. Chapter meets 11:30. Any retired man is welcome to mothers who have been through the by Park Rangers Glen Florey and Amy Wolitzer, taken Public Health Diabetes Program. Free the 4th Tuesday monthly from September drop by to learn about your opportunities. worst experience of their lives, losing throughout the 775-acre open space park. 7 week series runs Fridays January 8 to May. New members are invited to join For more information check our website: a child. For more information, contact The new calendar displays both flora and fauna that through February 19, 10 am - 12 pm, at the local Amador Chapter. If interested branch121.sirinc2.org or email Neal [email protected]. call Sycamore Grove Park home – tiger salamanders, red- the Dublin Senior Center, 7600 Amador call President Rickie at 925-292-8123 or Cavanaugh at [email protected] Pleasanton Newcomers Club, open shouldered hawks, dragonflies, coyotes, wildflowers and Valley Blvd., Dublin. Class is for adults e-mail [email protected]. (put “SIR” in the subject line). to new and established residents of the diagnosed with pre diabetes or type 2 Celebrating 125 years of American Legion Post 47 in Tri-Valley. Activities include a coffee the – of course – sycamore trees. The calendar details park diabetes. Learn about the causes of Livermore High School: Livermore Livermore is looking for veterans in the first Wednesday of the month, a luncheon closing times throughout the year, as well as provides fun diabetes, healthy eating, exercise, medi- High School & the Livermore High School Livermore area who are interested in on the second Wednesday of the month, facts about the nature seen in the photos. Also featured is cations, stress management and more. Alumni Association are beginning to performing community service for young Bunco, Mah Jongg, walking/hiking groups, an informational page about prescribed burns held in the Call 510-383-5185 to register. Requires organize interested, committed volunteers people and promoting veterans affairs. family activities, and monthly adult park and how they help to remove invasive plants and to 5 people registered for class to be held. to work/head the various committees to Interested veterans will meet with other socials. Information, call 925-215-8405 GNON (Girls Night Out Network- organize & plan celebratory events. The like-minded veterans for camaraderie or visit www.PleasantonNewcomers.com grow wildflowers. ing) 2016 kick of mixer, Jan. 11, 5 to 7 goal is for events to follow through the and support of veteran’s causes. The Overeaters Anonymous. All are Calendars are on sale now. Proceeds help benefit p.m. Coco Cabana Restaurant, Dublin 2016 school year in honor of 125 years American Legion is the largest federally welcome. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. No weigh- LARPD open space programs and facilities. Calendars are at 4500-C Tassajara Road. RSVP by Jan. and not be limited to one day. Interested? chartered veteran’s organization that is ins, free will donations for rent. St. $10 each or $6 when purchased with an annual Sycamore 9, Prepayment is required. /www.gnon. Call: Susan C. 925-447-6071 or Email: the veterans lobby and voice to congress. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 678 Grove parking pass, also available now for 2016. org/rsvp.html or 925-487-4748. $10 Susan: [email protected] or The Livermore American Legion Post 47 Enos Way, Livermore. Call Nora for further members, $15 nonmembers. Cheryl: [email protected]. meets the second and fourth Monday of information at (925)337-9118. Calendars and parking passes can be purchased at the Diabetes Prevention Class in Tri-Valley Stargazers Astronomy each month at 6:30 PM at the Veterans Community Resources for Inde- Robert Livermore Community Center, 4444 East Ave., Pleasanton, offered by Alameda County Club. Feed your wonder about the Night Memorial Building, 522 South L Street, pendent Living (CRIL) offers services to or by calling 925-373-5700. A calendar preview can be Public Health Diabetes Program. Free 3 Sky and the Cosmos by joining us on Livermore. Enter the building from the help people with disabilities and supports found on the Sycamore Grove Park page on the LARPD week series runs Thursdays January 14 the 3rd Friday of the Month for our club ramp on the 5th Street side. For more them to live independently and participate website at www.larpd.org. through January 28, 9:30- am - 11:30 meeting. Unitarian Universalist Church, information go to http://www.calegion. in their community for as long as they are am, at the Pleasanton Senior Center, 1893 N. Vasco Rd., Livermore. Doors org/ or contact Bill Bergmann at calegion. willing and able to do so. CRIL maintains THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 11

offices in Hayward, Fremont and Liver- appointments call the Reference Desk at 4743 East Avenue, Livermore. 9 a.m. youth, adult programs. Biblically based Livermore. 3rd ward 2:20 p.m., 2nd ward 10 a.m. The worship celebration is called more to provide information and referrals 925/931-3400, ext. 4. This is an ongoing Sunday worship. Information 447-1950. practical messages, nondenominational. 9 a.m., Mocho branch (Spanish) 12 noon. “Ancient Future” because it is rooted, and provide community education at service. Library programs are free and Calvary Chapel Livermore, All are welcomed. www.pathwaycom- 1501 Hillcrest Ave., Livermore: 1st ward, as the early church was, in God’s story, senior centers and affordable housing open to everyone. The library is located at meetings Sundays at 10 a.m. Robert muntiychurch.org (925) 829-4793. 1 p.m..; 4th ward 9 a.m., Springtown which is central to participants’ lives. complexes to residents of Southern Alam- 400 Old Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. Livermore Community Center, 4444 East Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, ward, 11 a.m. Young single adult ware, The gatherings typically include a mixture eda County. The Tri-Valley office is located Writing club for young adults, Ave., Livermore. (925) 447-4357 - www. 486 S. J Street, Livermore. 9:00 a.m. wor- 1:30 p.m., 8203 Village Parkway, Dublin. of songs, hymns, Scripture, art, ancient at 3311 Pacific Avenue, Livermore 94550 Whether a seasoned writer or just starting calvarylivermore.org. ship service. Bible Study/Sunday School The Church of Jesus Christ of prayers and creeds and a biblically based and can be reached by phone at (925) out, join published Young Adult author J.L. United Christian Church, www. 10:20. Bible Basics Class, which explores Latter-Day Saints: Pleasanton 1st Ward: message. Sunday school, child-care and 371-1531, by FAX at (925) 373-5034 or Powers at Livermore Public Library for uccliv.org, a gay-welcoming congrega- the main teachings of the Bible, meets Sunday at 1 p.m., 6100 Paseo Santa separate gatherings for teenagers are all by e-mail at abril.tamayo@cril-online. the Writing Club for Young Adults, ages 13 tion offering community and spiritual at 7:00 Sunday night. Call 371-6200 Cruz. Pleasanton 2nd Ward: Sunday 1 offered each Sunday concurrently with the org. All services are free. through 21 will meet from 6:30 to 8:00 encouragement for questioners, seekers or email [email protected] for p.m. at 3574 Vineyard Ave. Pleasanton worship service. For more information, go Livermore Peripheral Neuropathy pm on the third Thursday of the month. and risk-takers. Worships on Sunday more info. 3rd Ward: Sunday 9:30 a.m., 3574 Vine- to www.centerpointechurch.org or call the Support Group meets every fourth The meetings will be held at the Civic morning at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome. Tri-Valley Church of Christ, 4481 yard Ave. Pleasanton 4th Ward: Sunday office at (925) 846-4436. Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. in the Center Library, 1188 South Livermore 1886 College Ave. at M St., Livermore; East Avenue, Livermore; worship service 9:30 a.m., 6100 Paseo Santa Cruz. Dublin WINGS (Women in God’s Spirit) third floor movie room at Heritage Estates Avenue, Livermore. The club is free and call 449-6820 for more information. 10:15 a.m. Sundays. www.trivalley- 1st Ward: Sunday 9:30 a.m., 8203 Village for women of all ages and life stages, Retirement Community. The address is no registration is required. For more infor- Granada Baptist Church, 945 Con- church.org. Parkway. Meets Thursday mornings 9:30-11:30am 900 E. Stanley Blvd., Livermore All are mation, please visit TEEN SPACE on the cannon Boulevard, Livermore. Services: Bethel Family Christian Center, John Knox Presbyterian Church, through May 15, St. Charles Parish welcome. Contacts are: Sandra Grafrath library’s website: www.livermorelibrary. Sunday school – 9:45 a.m.; worship 501 North P Street, Livermore, Pastors 7421 Amarillo Rd., Dublin. Sunday wor- - Borromeo Hall, 1315 Lomitas Ave., 443-6655 or Lee Parlett 292-9280. net, or contact Jennifer at 925-373-5576. service – 11 a.m. All are welcome. are Don & Debra Qualls. Weekly minis- ship service at 9:30 a.m. Sunday school Livermore. Questions: Donna Leach DBE Daughters of the British 1-888-805-7151. tries: Sunday 10 a.m. - Teaching Ses- for ages 3-18 during worship. Adult (925-443-6815)[dleach45@gmail. Empire, John McLaren’s Roses of Britain RELIGION Seventh-day Adventist Church, sions; Sunday 10:25 a.m. - Holy Grounds education Sundays at 11:00 a.m. Jr. High com] or Kristen Barton (925-449-8002) Chapter in the Tri-Valley meets at 11:00 First Presbyterian Church, 2020 243 Scott Street, Livermore. 925-447- Fellowship; Sunday Worship Service youth group Sundays 4:00-6:10 p.m. High [[email protected]] a.m. on the 3rd Thursday of every month Fifth Street, Livermore. 8:30 a.m. 5462, services on Saturday: Sabbath 10:45 a.m. - Elementary aged children go school youth group Sundays 5:50-8:00 Tri-Valley Church of Christ, gives at Castlewood Country Club. DBE was Contemplative Service in the Chapel school 9:30 a.m., worship 11 a.m. www. to Kid’s Church following worship, nursery p.m. www.jkpcdublin.org (925)828-1846. away clothing and other items every founded in 1909 and is a nonprofit 501(c) and 10:00 a.m. Traditional Service in livermoresda.org/ All are welcome. available; Wednesday 7 p.m. - Back to Livermore Quakers: Unprogrammed Monday 10-12. Donations are also ac- (3) organization made up of women of the Sanctuary and children’s program Faith Chapel Assembly of God, the Point Bible Study; all ages; Friday 7 worship, Mondays at 7pm, 1886 College cepted on Mondays between 10-12. 4418 British or British Commonwealth heritage For more information www.fpcl.us or 6656 Alisal St., Pleasanton, Sunday p.m. - Celebrate Recovery; in the dining Ave. (United Christian Church). More E. Avenue, Livermore. and ancestry with a focus on charity and 925-447-2078. School 9:15 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m., hall; 925-449-4848. information: LivermoreQuakers@gmail. Christ Church (a nondenominational fellowship. Those interested in helping Tri-Valley Bible Church, 2346 Women's Bible study Wednesdays at 10 Valley Bible Church, Pleasanton, com or (925) 315-7170. evangelical church formerly meeting with “the cause," enjoying social activi- Walnut St., Livermore, holds Sunday wor- a.m. Intercessory prayer 1st and 3rd 7106 Johnson Drive, Services at 9:00 and Unity of Tri-Valley - 7567 Amador in Pleasanton), Now meeting at Arroyo ties, and forming long-lasting friendships, ship at 10 a.m. with Sunday school for all Wednesdays. Senior adult ministries meet 11:00. Interpretation for the deaf at 9:00. Valley Blvd., Suite 108, Dublin. 10:00 am Mocho Elementary School, 1040 Florence contact Edith Caponigro at 925-998-3500 ages at 9 a.m. Children's classes during every other month. Call the office at 846- 925-227-1301. www.thecrossing.org Sunday service. Dec. 24th (Christmas Rd., Livermore. Worship service at 9:00 or Jenny Whitehouse at 925-484-1273 for adult worship service. AWANA children's 8650 for more information. Valley Bible Church, Livermore, Eve) speaker: Rev. Micah Murock; Unity a.m.; Educational Classes for all ages at additional information. program Wednesdays at 6 p.m. 449-4403 Trinity Church, 557 Olivina Ave. Meeting at Altamont Creek Elementary Carolers performing; time of service: 4:00 11:00 a.m. Fall adult education course: Pleasanton Military Families is or www.Tri-ValleyBibleChurch.com. Livermore. Sunday worship at 8:30 and School, 6500 Garaventa Ranch Road, pm followed by Christmas refreshments. “Human Sexuality: Biblical and Theologi- a Pleasanton based support group for Unitarian Universalist, 1893 N. 11:00 a.m., and Sunday School and Bible Livermore. Services at 10:00 a.m. Dec. 27th speaker: Rev. Margie Brach, cal Perspectives,” taught by Robert W. those who have a loved one serving in Vasco Rd., Livermore. 10:30 a.m. Sunday study for all ages at 9:45 a.m. Awana is Cedar Grove Community Church, guest musicians: Narayan & Janet. Evans (Ph.D. in clinical psychology and the Military. The group gathers at 7:00 service. Information 447-8747 or www. Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday night 2021 College Ave., Livermore. Worship Inspirational Burning Bowl ceremony and Ph.D. in systematic theology). visit: p.m. on the 2nd Tuesday of each month uucil.org there is adult Bible study, youth activities Services 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. www. letters to God. All are welcome. Ongoing www.christchurch-trivalley.org or call to share concerns, fears, and to celebrate Congregation Beth Emek, Center and children's choir at 6:30 p.m. Child cedargrove.org or call 447-2351. groups and activities. www.unityoftrival- 925.846.0665. the joys that are experienced. There is for Reform, Jewish Learning, Prayer and care during all events. 447-1848, www. Chabad of the Tri-Valley, 784 ley.org 925.829.2733. Grief Workshop, bi-monthly to no better support than being surrounded Community in the Tri-Valley. 3400 Nevada trinitylivermore.org Palomino Dr., Pleasanton. 846-0700. St. Francis of Assisi, 193 Contrac- help people with the healing journey. St. by others who know what you are going Court, Pleasanton. Information 931- St. Charles Borromeo, 1315 Lomi- www.jewishtrivalley.com. Rabbi Raleigh tors St., Livermore. .Sunday School (all Elizabeth Church, 4001 Stoneridge Dr. through. Three times per year, the group 1055. Rabbi Dr. Lawrence Milder, www. tas Ave., Livermore. Meditation groups Resnick. ages) – 8:30 AM. Communion – 9:30 AM. Pleasanton. 7:30 p. Tuesday, Jan 12th. collect supplies and sends care packages bethemek.org. following the John Main tradition, every Well Community Outreach Center 925-906-9561 stfrancisanglican.church. and 26th. Thursday, Feb 11th. and 25th. to the troops. Contact PMFSG.ca@gmail. Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, affiliated Monday 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. For details, ministry provides meats, canned and Center for Spiritual Living March 10th. 2016. No per-registration com for the location of the next meeting. with the Congress of Secular Jewish contact Claire La Scola at 447-9800. dry goods, toiletries, and school supplies Livermore Valley - People from all faith is necessary, but if it is your first night Livermore Military Families, a Organizations (csjo.org). Information, St. Innocent Orthodox Church, (only available prior to the start of the traditions, cultures, races and sexual attending, arrive a little early to check in. support group for families in Livermore Rabbi Judith Seid, Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, 5860 Las Positas Rd., Livermore. Sunday school year). Those with an immedi- orientations welcome. Sunday service These sessions are open to all, regardless who have a loved one serving in the 485-1049 or EastBaySecularJews.org. Liturgy at 10 a.m. For details, go to www. ate need or who would like to donate at 10:00 a.m. Youth and teen programs of religious affiliation. Please call Nancy Military, is intended to be a safe place for First Church of Christ, Scientist, stinnocent.net or call Fr. John Karcher at nonperishable food items, call the office offered as well. All are welcome. Meeting at 925-846-9543 for more information. family members to come and share their Livermore, services 10 a.m. every (831) 278-1916. at (925) 479-1414 to begin the process. place 1617 2nd St., 2nd Floor, Livermore. Christmas Eve by Candlelight, Dec. experiences and concerns with others Sunday. Sunday School for students (ages St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., For more information contact revhar- 24, 7 p.m. Unitarian Universalist Church, who understand what they are going 3-20) is held at 10 a.m. every Sunday. Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, Services and Thursday 4 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Pick up [email protected] or visit us at http:// 1893 N. Vasco Rd., Livermore. All through. All family members are welcome The church and reading room are located on Sunday, 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. by appointment only. The Outreach Center csllvlighthouse.org. ages welcome to this traditional service to attend meetings. Meetings on the 3rd at Third and N Streets. The Reading Children’s Sunday School & Chapel at will be open every 4th Saturday to distrib- St. Matthews Baptist Church, 851 celebrating the joy and mystery of the Thursday of each month at the Livermore Room, which is open to the public, fea- 10:15 a.m. All are most welcome to come ute bags from Fresh and Easy Market and Rincon Ave., Livermore. www, smbclive. Christmas holiday. Rev. Lucas Hergert Veterans Memorial Building, 522 South tures books, CDs and magazines for sale. and worship with us and to enjoy our Sprouts. This will be on a first come first com or 443.3686. Dr. Allen S. Turner. will lead the service. Bring cookies for L Street from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For information, call (925) 447-2946. hospitality. For more information call the serve basis between 11 a.m. to 12:30 Worship services 8 and 11 a.m., Sunday fellowship afterwards. 925-447-8747, For more information, call Tami Jenkins, Sunset Community Church, 2200 church office 925-462-4802. p.m. 2333 Nissen Drive, Livermore. family Bible school, 9:30 p.m., Bible uucil.org 925-784-5014 or email livermoremili- Arroyo Rd., Livermore. Sunday worship St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Lynnewood United Methodist study and youth ministry, Wednesday 7 Centerpointe Church will offer taryfamilies@yahoo. service at 9:30 a.m. Hispanic service Church , 678 Enos Way, Livermore, (925) Church, 4444 Black Ave., Pleasanton, of- p.m. Feed the homeless, Saturday 11 two worship services Christmas Eve to Job Consultations, Pleasanton Pub- starts at 2 p.m. Nursery and children's 447-3289. www.saintbartslivermore.com. fers a friendly congregation where all are a.m. Prayer, 6 p.m. weekdays. celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus. A lic Library offers free consultations with church provided. A "Night of Worship" Service Schedule: 8:00 a.m. Contempla- welcome. Christmas eve services: Dec. “1 & 2 Corinthians” will be the candelight celebration led by the worship an experienced Employment Recruiter. first Sunday of each month at 6 p.m. tive Eucharist; 9:15 a.m. Adult Bible 24 5:00 p.m. Candlelight Family Service; featured study of Community Bible Study band and specially designed for families Receive help with resume writing, find Wednesday night program for all ages at Study (check web-site): 10:20 Sunday 7:30 p.m. Candlelight Service with Women’s class of Pleasanton this fall. A with younger children will be held at 4 employment web sites, learn how to 7 p.m. Information, call 447-6282. School (Godly Play); 10:30: Sung Eucha- Choir and Violin; 9:00 p.m. Candlelight Children’s Program is available for infants p.m. It will include Christmas carols, a search for a job on the web, and get help Holy Cross Lutheran Church Sun- rist with choir, child care provided. Service with Choir and Violin. Worship at to 5 years old. Class starts on continues children’s stgory, candelighting and a with online applications. The Pleasanton day Service 9:30 a.m. 1020 Mocho St., Little Brown Church, United Church 9 or 10:30 a.m. on Sundays with Sunday each week on Thursdays at 9:30- message for joy.At 8 p.m., the service Library has support materials available to Livermore. Information, 447-8840. of Christ 141 Kilkare Road, Sunol. 10:30 school for youth and adults at 10:30 a.m. 11:30am until May 12, 2015. Valley Bible will be led by the Sanctuary choir and will assist you. Sign up at the Reference Desk Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, a.m. worship. All are welcome here. www. and childcare at both services. Contact Church, 7106 Johnson Dr., Pleasanton. include candlelighting and a message for a 20 minute consultation. Appoint- 1385 S. Livermore Avenue, Livermore. 9 littlebrownchurchofsunol.org 925-862- Rev. Heather Hammer at 846-0221, send Contact Sherri at 925-399-5074 or email of God’s love for everyone. Everyone is ments available on selected Wednesday a.m. worship (semiformal); 10:30 a.m. 2580 an email to [email protected] or visit [email protected] for more informa- welcome at either service. 3410 Cor- evenings and Saturday afternoons. A adult Bible study/Sunday school. For Pathway Community Church, 6533 our website at www.lynnewood.org. tion or to register.” nerstone Court. 925-846-4436 or www. new time and format added on Thursday information, call 925-447-1246. Sierra Lane, Dublin. Contemporary Wor- The Church of Jesus Christ of Centerpointe Church, 3410 Corner- centerpointechurch.org afternoons, for a half or full hour. For Asbury United Methodist Church, ship Service, Sunday 10:30 am. Children, Latter-day Saints: 9050 Mocho St., stone Court, Pleasanton. Worship is at 12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Brad Kinney Named to ValleyCare Charitable Foundation Board Long time Tri-Valley res- Olympics-Northern Califor- approach focuses on the ident and community leader nia where he has produced unique needs of each client Brad Kinney was appointed and hosted over 80 events, and their goals. Prior to his to the ValleyCare Charitable as well as Leukemia Lym- work at AMF, Kinney was Foundation Board of Direc- phoma Society, American the senior director of Events tors in November 2015 to Red Cross, Taylor Fam- and Corporate Culture at complete Gwen Yadon’s ily Foundation, First Tee, Men’s Wearhouse Corporate term, who retired in August. American Heart Associa- where he was responsible Kinney is president of tion, City Serve and Valley for over 120 events yearly, Brad Kinney Productions Pregnancy Center. as well as creating a high (BKP) based in Pleasan- Kinney is also currently quality work environment ton. BKP is a full-scale director of Event Services for the 16,000 employees. event production company and Video Production at Kinney joins the 20 other specializing in non-profit AMF Media Group in San ValleyCare Charitable Foun- fundraising events. Over the Ramon and has more than dation Board of Directors past 25 years, Brad has built 25 years of event production that include: Gary Alt, Lori relationships with Special experience. His innovative Arden, Todd Auker, M.D., Kirsten Barranti, Steve The Amador Valley High school Competition Cheer team took first place at James Black, Lisa Brown, Randy Logan High School in Union City. The 12 girls competed in the small/medium Brown, Joe Carlucci, David intermediate division at this Regional competition hosted by United Spirit Association. Clausen, David Greiner, They are headed to Yorba Linda next month for their next competition. Standing Frances Hewitt, Megan Mc- is Coach Danielle Butler, Jessica Hallgrimson, Melia Storey, Mary Hinek, Ashley Manus, Cathy Raty, Anne Roby, Brock Roby, Niall Boxberger, Krista Lewis, Katherine Jackson, Kaitlyn McGarrity and Mckenna Shaffer. Roche, M.D., Gina Teeples, Kneeling is Kayla Fulmer, Emily Mercer, Maci Manos and Kaitlyn Letourneau. Not Tim Weaver and co-chairs pictured is Lauren Shohfi. The Amador Valley stunt team also took 1st place with Bob and Joyce Shapiro. Melia Storey, Mary Hinek, Ashley Boxberger, Kaitlyn McGarrity and Emily Mercer. Competition took place at James Logan High School in Union City.

Matt Klem, a University of Dallas student from Livermore, Raina, both of Pleasanton. was a member of the Cross Country Team for the Fall 2015 sea- son. At the SCAC Championships, the men's team placed fourth Names of students who have made the Scholastic Honor Roll Grant Robinson and Teresa Boyd of Dublin, claimed and the women's team placed third. Both teams were coached by Fall term have been announced by Oregon State University. Matt Barber. Students on the Honor Roll included: victory in the Mini Blue Ribbon Pairs event at the Fall Dublin: 3.5 or Better: Natalie H. Miller, Junior, Chemical Engi- North American Bridge Championships (NABCs), one neering; James L. Pool, Post Baccalaureate, Pre-Computer Science. of the 14 championship-level bridge events held in The Phi Beta Kappa Society was founded in 1776, and is the Livermore: 3.5 or Better: Adison R. McLaggan, Freshman, Denver from Nov. 26 to Dec. 6. This is the first NABC nation's oldest and most prestigious academic society for under- Pre-Bioengineering. graduates who excel in the liberal arts and sciences. Pleasanton: Straight-A Average: Jesse J. Lin, Sophomore, Soci- title for Robinson (left) and Boyd. The NABCs are held Lauren Macdonnell, a Biology major from Pleasanton, was ology; Konstantin Yakovenko, Post Baccalaureate, Pre-Computer three times a year across the U.S. and Canada to bring named to San Diego State University's chapter of Phi Beta Kappa. Science. 3.5 or Better: Rishi H. Bhandarkar, Post Baccalaureate, together players of all skill levels, from beginner to Pre-Computer Science; Ronald H. Capilla, Senior, Construction Engineering Mgt; Kelley E. Dixon, Freshman, Human Develop- advanced, with opportunities for everyone to play daily This fall more than 1,300 undergraduate students from around ment and Family Science; Shannon Y. Gray, Freshman, University from 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. The 2016 Spring NABCs will the world began their first year at Tufts University, located in Exploratory Studies; Sara D. Howard, Senior, Management. be held in Reno, Nev., from March 12 to 20. Medford/Somerville, Mass. They include: Karan Rai and Nikita