November 2019 Orinda Teen Raises Funds in Fight Against Juvenile Arthritis by BOBBIE DODSON Staff Writer

Published by The Orinda Association THE ORINDA NEWS Gratis www.TheOrindaNews.com 12 Issues Annually Volume 34, Number 11 Delivered to 9,000 Households and Businesses in Orinda November 2019 Orinda Teen Raises Funds in Fight Against Juvenile Arthritis By BOBBIE DODSON Staff Writer

arisa Chow’s life changed dramati- Mcally at age 13 when she could no longer play the piano or tennis or dance. It hurt too much. She was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. “My wrists hurt the most now,” says the Miramonte High School senior who is in the school’s jazz band, orchestra, symphon- ic band and marching band. “I wear wrist braces and use warm compresses when they are really bothering me.” Marisa’s mother, Cristi Chow, explains, “After complaining about wrist pain for SALLY HOGARTY several months, there were numerous doc- Wen-Shee Lee, a rider with Seniors Around Town and a monthly donor to the volunteer ride service, visits with SAT program coordinator Cathy Goshorn. tor visits and even a cast. Initially Marisa was diagnosed with Kienbock’s disease, but when they were going to do surgery Volunteers, Donors Keep Wheels on her wrist we got a second opinion and IN THIS ISSUE found it was arthritis. There are many kinds Turning at The Orinda Association News [SEE CHOW page 12] Assemblywoman Bauer-Kahan 2 By SALLY HOGARTY immigrated to the United States 50 years Police Blotter 5 Executive Editor ago. She moved to Orinda’s Monteverde Senior Housing more than a year ago and Power Shutoff 5 er quick step, ready smile and energy says she loves her new home. She enjoys Around Town belie the fact that Wen-Shee Lee will traveling, seeing her three adult children, H People 6-7 soon turn 80 years old. working in the community garden and Born in China and raised in Taiwan, Lee [SEE VOLUNTEERS page 4] Performing/Visual Arts 8-10 Schools 13 Chamber Goes Virtual Business Buzz 16 he Orinda Chamber of Commerce in October shut down its downtown office and Calendar 9 Tlet go of its executive director. The organization had subleased the office in the Club Meetings 7 Library Plaza from The Orinda Association since January 2005. Classiﬁ eds 12 Chamber leaders said in a press release that the vast majority of interactions with its Editorial 4 members, the business community and local government are through Internet-based services, making a physical office space and an executive director not the best use of Everyday Orinda 13 membership funds. Library Calendar 6 The release also noted chamber communications such as its newsletter and event an- School Calendar 10 nouncements would be powered by “low cost or no cost digital services … and carried out by volunteers.” Seasoned Shopper 11

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO The Chamber began in 1952 and has 80 to 100 members in good standing. The Orinda Association 3 Miramonte senior Marisa Chow and her “Shark- Chamber board members did not respond to calls for comment. The Reel Less Traveled 14 nado” team hope to raise $6000 in support of the – Sally Hogarty, Executive Editor Arthritis Foundation.

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Fitness Tip of the Month

Exercise Alone Will Not Make You Fit

We can exercise a lot and never become fit or we can exercise a little and become very fit. The key to fitness is measurable improvement. If your exercise results are improving you are becoming more fit.

For more information, contact Sheena with Living Lean personal training and eating for elite fitness at 925-360- 7051 or www.livinglean- program.com. COURTESY OF OFFICE OF ASSEMBLY DEMOCRATS Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (L) with Gov. Gavin Newsom (seated) and fellow legislators at the signing of the gun violence restraining order bill Oct. 11. The bill allows employers, co-workers and teachers to seek gun violence restraining orders against other people. Catching up With District 16 Assemblywoman Bauer-Kahan

By SALLY HOGARTY husband. There is no way I could do this Executive Editor without him.” Bauer-Kahan also notes the support of oming up on her first-year anniversary, her children. “The other day, my 7-year-old CDistrict 16 Assemblywoman Rebecca daughter said she wants me to run again Bauer-Kahan looks back over a very busy because she knows I help people. That was 10 months. The Orinda resident travels to so rewarding. Hopefully, I’m a role model Sacramento Monday to Thursday when for them.” the legislature is in session, coming home The Democrat says she decided to run each night to her husband Darren and three following the 2016 presidential election. children, ages 5, 7 and 9. “I’ve spent many years as an environmen- “We’re usually done in Sacramento by tal litigator, and I’m the granddaughter of midday Thursday, so I spend Thursday refugees. When the country took the turn it afternoons and Fridays in the district,” says did in 2016, I decided rather than just being Bauer-Kahan, which includes Lamorinda, depressed I should step up and make sure parts of Walnut Creek and the Tri-Valley. the values that I knew District 16 and the “All working moms have to juggle. But, community holds were represented at every luckily, I have incredible support from my [SEE BAUER-KAHAN page 3] THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 n 3 ORINDA ASSOCIATION

A Message From the OA President The Orinda Association Doing Good — With Your Help The Orinda Association is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to: • Maintaining and improving the quality of life in Orinda; Carlos Baltodano • Promoting awareness and discussion of issues that are important to the community; ’m a single grandmother and my SAT is one of the many programs offered • Encouraging and recognizing volunteer efforts to enhance the “Ichildren live very far away,” says and sponsored by The Orinda Association. beauty, character and security of Orinda. Orinda Senior Village resident Mary Poon. The OA also organizes and sponsors the The Orinda Association “I could not go to my doctor appointments 4th of July Parade and annual Classic Car P.O. Box 97 without the help of the Seniors Around Show, and runs the downtown Volunteer Visit our office at 26 Orinda Way Orinda, CA 94563 (Lower Level Library) Town program.” Center. It publishes The Orinda News, Phone: 254-0800 Seniors Around Town (SAT) is an Orinda which is distributed free each month to www.OrindaAssociation.org Association (OA) program which helps every household and business in Orinda. local seniors maintain their independence. The OA started in 1946 and is a 501(c) OFFICERS BOARD MEMBERS It is the only free transportation program (3) nonprofit with the mission of main- President Carlos Baltodano Anil Comelo Vice President Joe Garvey Joe Haughin – Board Member Emeritus that provides reliable, door-to-door trans- taining and improving the quality of life Secretary Sally Hogarty Chris Laszcz-Davis portation to seniors. There are 70 volunteer in Orinda. It promotes awareness and Treasurer Bill Waterman Diane Lautz drivers who use their private vehicles for encourages dialogue through forums on City Council Liaison Inga Miller Jim Luini – Board Member Emeritus Cindy Powell the rides. important issues. All of these efforts, Bryan Silveira With public support over the past several events and programs would not be possible Devan Sudra years, the program has expanded to become without the public’s continued generosity Kate Wiley a positive force in the community by of- and assistance throughout the years. In its fering support to families who can count 73-year history the OA has been providing on someone else to take their loved ones these services with the financial support of to appointments. The program serves 118 dedicated Orinda residents. registered riders and provides more than There are many new opportunities to 1,300 rides last year. There is a tremendous explore. For instance, The OA has begun need to provide this assistance to seniors in to work on a volunteer emergency support Orinda, where 30 percent of the riders are plan that will match SAT drivers with SAT in their 90s, 30 percent are in their 80s and riders in their own neighborhood. When 20 percent are in their 70s. SAT drivers sign onto the program, they can As an example of the dedicated volun- also volunteer to check on their assigned teers and staff, SAT staff made an extra ef- riders as needed and help connect them fort during last month’s PG&E outage to get with family or the appropriate emergency the most vulnerable clients to their dialysis services agency if needed. and chemo treatments. They reached out The PG&E outage was a wake-up call for by phone and in person to check on some Orindans. It gave us insight on how to be senior riders they knew were isolated. better prepared the next time. For us at the This is not just a ridership program, it’s OA, it was an opportunity to think about helping our extended local families in a how we can better assist the most vulner- time of need. [SEE PRESIDENT page 14] t BAUER-KAHAN from page 2 says she was surprised to find how little of that was evident in Sacramento. “People level of government,” she says. often just try to push through their view, Fighting climate change was a chief and I think we need to listen to each other motivator. “Washington was going to turn more and find that middle ground. It will its back on climate change, and I wanted make for better policy. That was the type of to help California continue to protect the law I was in and seeing so little of it on this environment for my three little ones and all side is disappointing to be frank.” the community’s children. It’s very scary,” The legislature is on recess through Janu- she adds. ary with Bauer-Kahan back in District 16 In her first session, Bauer-Kahan has working on her next legislative package. helped push six bills to approval with 13 Her office is putting together roundtables more pending. Her diverse legislation on issues such as education and the environ- includes such topics as the environment, ment. For information on bills Bauer-Kahan protecting children, education, healthcare, is sponsoring, committees she’s on and public safety and more. “We created a bill more, go to https://a16.asmdc.org. package I think encompasses the values of District 16 – that’s what guides my office Sally Hogarty can be reached at sally@ every day.” theorindanews.com. Bauer-Kahan credits her background as a lawyer, litigator and law professor for giving her the skills to analyze a vast array of legislation quickly. “They tell you not to fall in love with any of your bills, but I confess that I fall in love with all of them,” she confides. “Being the voice that brought the idea of a select committee on women’s reproductive health to the legislature has been an honor. I want to ensure that California is doing everything in its power to protect women and their health. I never thought in my lifetime a woman’s right to choose would be as fragile as it is now.” The 41-year-old says she finds working with Gov. Gavin Newsom a pleasure given they both share many of the same values. “He has worked hard to push forward a budget that is bold on climate change, education and other things that are really important but also fiscally responsible at the same time,” Bauer-Kahan says. Coming from a world of negotiation and compromise as a litigator, Bauer-Kahan 4 n THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 EDITORIAL Letter to the Editor Private Roads Have Benefits about what a “no trespassing” sign means? In response to your articles on the pri- Perhaps it would be good to hear from the vate roads in Orinda, I am of the distinct silent majority. Those who live on private impression that your writers have a bias roads have benefits, the advantages of the towards those who want the city to pay cachet of a private road address and the for their private roads. All the individuals privacy that comes with it. quoted seem to be a part of an organized These are important for Orindans. Paying campaign to get the city to pay for their for that privacy seems like a small price to privacy. pay for what they get. Has your staff made any effort to con- Please make the effort and do more bal- sider the other side that does not want to anced reporting. pay for private roads? Have they thought –Andrew Flagg

The Orinda Association t VOLUNTEERS from page 1 Programs helping her neighbors. “I try to help others when I can. If my neighbors go away on a The Orinda News trip, I get their mail and water their plants,” Published intermittently since its says Lee. “It’s not a lot but it helps.” inception as Hayseed Siftings in 1893, List of The Orinda News Advertisers Lee also helps The Orinda Association’s Page Page The Orinda News has been continuously (OA) Seniors Around Town (SAT) ride Automotive Travel Adventures Unlimited 16 published by The Orinda Association service program. Once a month, she walks Mash Gas and Food 1 Real Estate Orinda Motors 5 AG Realty since 1986. Delivered to every house through the Community Center Park to and business in Orinda, the monthly Orinda Shell Auto Care 7 The Gailas Team 3 the OA’s office on the Library Plaza and Beauty and Fitness Coldwell Banker publication also is available online at donates $20 to SAT. CoreKinetics 6 Laura Abrams 7 www.theorindanews.com. “It’s important to me to support this won- Living Lean Exercise & Eating Program 2 Suzanne Toner Geoffrion 14 Shellie Kirby 9 derful program. I’ve been a rider with SAT Cleaning Services Seniors Around Town Kirby Carpet Cleaning 11 Compass for almost a year now, and I really rely on In operation since 2005, SAT provides Dental The Beaubelle Group 15 it to get to my doctor appointments,” Lee Dr. Amin Samadian DDS 2 Holly Henkel 12 free rides to Orinda residents for medi- says. “I’ve met so many nice drivers, and Dr. Mary Smith DDS 14 Sotheby’s International Realty cal and other appointments through the Ann Newton Cane 13 I love stopping by the office to talk with Educational use of volunteer, background-checked La Porte Education Advising 15 Village Associates Cathy [Goshorn] who usually arranges Orinda drivers. To register for the pro- Orinda Parks & Rec 10 Dexter Honens II 2 my rides.” Garden/Landscaping April Matthews 13 gram, call the OA at 925-402-4506 or go Although the SAT ride program is free, Blue Ridge Landscaping 6 Murphy Team - Karen & Hilary Murphy 6 to www.orindaassociation.org. McDonnell Nursery 13 Ann Sharf 9 Lee insists on giving what she can to Tree Sculpture 8 Molly Smith 11 Fourth of July ensure the program continues for herself Medical Steve Stahle 10 The OA organizes the annual Fourth and others. Dr. Brian Clark, Psy. D. 10 Clark Thompson 8 While riders such as Lee benefit from Medicine Shoppe 13 Restaurants/Catering of July parade. In partnership with the Nonprofits Baan Thai 7 city, the OA also offers a celebration in the SAT service, it also provides a valuable The Orinda Association 3, 10 Casa Orinda 16 Community Center Park following the experience for volunteer drivers such as Pet Service Farmers’ Market 11 parade. To learn more, call 925-254- Mayor Inga Miller. Animal House Pet Sitting 1 Siam Orchid 5 “It is such an incredible asset to our Professional Service Zamboni’s Pizza Company 3 0800 or go to www.orindaassociation. 5A Rent-A-Space 14 Retail org. community,” says Miller. “I have met so Park Place Wealth Advisors 14 Christian Ehrhorn Fine Arts 8 many amazing people driving. It’s my most Professional Property Management 11 Hilton House Home Consignments 9 The Volunteer Center favorite volunteer activity.” State Farm Insurance – Bryan Silveira 6 McCaulou’s 13 The OA catalogs many volunteer Miller also notes how the service helps opportunities both in Orinda and the connect the community, especially the surrounding communities. Listings are seniors, as drivers and riders get to know who donates time to The Orinda Associa- and Claire Roberts. Both have served as OA available at www.orindaassociation.org. one another. She says an unforeseen benefit tion’s programs. Her husband, Steve, also board members and presidents. They can happened during preparation for PG&E’s known as the Voice of Orinda, has been be seen each year on July 4th at the BART Informative Public Forums October power shutdown. “The city staff involved with the OA’s July 4th parade for parking lot organizing parade entries. Mark The OA offers public forums on such needed to identify medically fragile mem- over 20 years. If you’ve ever attended the is also part of The Orinda News editorial topics as fire safety, emergency pre- bers of the community who might need help parade, you’ve heard Steve announcing committee, which goes over the paper each paredness as well as panel discussions during the power shutdown. We discovered the various entries. He also acts as emcee month just prior to publication. with local political candidates. Go to the staff at SAT had a list and was already and sound engineer for the SAT’s annual “I really enjoy reviewing the stories,” he www.orindaassociation.org. contacting them!” holiday luncheon. The Harwoods not only says. “It’s rewarding to work with other Tish Harwood is another enthusiastic donate their time and talents, they make ‘mini-editors’ who share my desire to get Orinda Classic Car Show SAT driver. “I’ve met the most interesting, significant financial donations as well. each feature in the paper just right for the Begun in 2005 by Chip and Carolyn delightful individuals who have often led “I know Steve would agree with me that readers.” Herman and John Vanek, the popular unique lives,” says Harwood. “Losing the by getting involved with these wonderful Claire adds, “We appreciate what the show is now organized by The Orinda ability to drive is a life-altering experience, community activities and organizations, OA has meant to Orinda for more than 70 Association. Run by volunteers, the and the riders are so appreciative and gra- we have received far more than we’ve ever years, and we plan to be part of its future.” car show benefits many local nonprofit cious. It leaves me feeling uplifted by their given,” adds Tish. Started in 1946, the OA works to main- groups. For information, go to www. positive spirit in the face of adversity.” Another husband-and-wife team who tain and improve the quality of life in orindaassociation.org. Harwood isn’t the only family member donate both their time and money are Mark [SEE VOLUNTEERS page 12]

The Orinda News prints 9,000 copies and is published 12 times a Opinions of The Orinda News are expressed on the year by The Orinda Association. The office is located at 26 Orinda The Orinda News editorial page. Views of writers and letters to the editor are Way (lower level of the Library). All rights reserved. The publication is A Publication of their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The sent out by direct mail (Permit #4, Orinda Post Office) and distributed The Orinda Association Orinda Association or of The Orinda News. Advertisements to key locations throughout the city. Mailing Address P.O. Box 97 appearing in The Orinda News are not to be construed as Executive Editor ...... Sally Hogarty Orinda, California 94563 endorsements by The Orinda Association or The Orinda News. Editor ...... Simar Khanna Telephone: 925 254-0800 Letters to the Editor are printed on a space-available Assistant Editors ...... David Dierks, Lynn Kalmar basis and should be no longer than 400 words. They must in- Advertising Representatives ...... Jill Gelster, Elana O’Loskey www.TheOrindaNews.com clude the writer’s first and last name, signature and telephone Editorial Committee ...... Kathy Enzerink, Jill Gelster, Elana O’Loskey, number. Cindy Powell, Mark Roberts, Kate Wiley Send letters to: Editor, The Orinda News, P.O. Box 97, Staff Writers ...... Carlos Baltodano, Kathy Bohanan Enzerink, Orinda, CA 94563, or email to [email protected]. Mimi Bommarito, Bobbie Dodson, Barbara Kobsar, Elana O’Loskey, Tom Westlake Letters to Editor for the December issue are due Nov. 8, 2019. Graphics/Layout ...... Aspen Consulting: Jill Gelster & David Dierks Printing ...... Folger Graphics For display advertising rates, call Jill Gelster at 925-528- 9225 ([email protected]) or Elana O’Loskey at 925-984- 1751 ([email protected]). The deadline for the December issue The OA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. is November 8, 2019. THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 n 5 NEWS

POLICE BLOTTER Sep. 22 through Oct. 5 Calls for Service Service to Citizen: 58 incidents. 911 Hangup: 12 incidents. Suspicious Circumstances: 6 inci- Accident Injury: 2 incidents. dents. Accident Property: 3 incidents. Suspicious Person Stop: 5 incidents. Alarm, False: 41 incidents. Suspicious Subject: 4 incidents. Burglary, Auto: 1 incident. Suspicious Vehicle: 4 incidents. Burglary, Commercial: 3 incidents. Suspicious Vehicle Stop: 20 incidents. Burglary, Residential: 1 incident. Vacation House Check: 6 incidents. Carjacking: 1 incident. Welfare Check: 8 incidents. CVC Moving Violation: 18 incidents. SALLY HOGARTY CVC Non-Moving Violation: 30 Arrest Joe Garvey and his wife Linda (both standing center) brought their dog Barney along to Orinda’s energy center where electrical power was available during the outage. incidents. Drug Possession: 1 arrest. Disturbing the Peace: 6 incidents. DUI: 1 arrest. Drunk in Public: 1 incident. Probation Violation: 1 arrest. Powering Through the Power Shut-off Fraud: 2 incidents. Warrant Arrest: 2 arrests. By SALLY HOGARTY festive atmosphere to the dark downtown Grand Theft: 2 incidents. Loud Party: 1 incident. BART Statistics Executive Editor Oct. 10. The trucks even came early at 2 p.m. so residents could enjoy a hot Ordinance Violation: 2 incidents. No incidents reported. he city took a proactive stance during meal in the afternoon as well as in the Outside Assist: 5 incidents. TOctober’s power shutoff by opening evening. Parking Detail: 24 incidents. – Compiled by David Dierks a City Care/Cooling/Resource Center for Patrol Request: 23 incidents. Assistant Editor residents. Sally Hogarty can be reached at sally@ Petty Theft: 3 incidents. For more incidents details, visit Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Oct. 9-11 in the theorindanews.com. Reckless Driving: 3 incidents. www.crimereports.com. Community Center Room 8, the facility offered electrical power, water and a surprise supply of pastries from Peet’s Coffee. “I drove to Walnut Creek this morning to use the WiFi and power at Peet’s Coffee before I found out about this facility just a few blocks from our home,” says Orinda resident Rob Kline. “Having the power out is certainly inconvenient, but we’re making do and something like this really helps. Kline, like many in the Bay Area, was more than a little frustrated with PG&E. “This is all precipitated by PG&E’s de- ferred maintenance. The worst part is not knowing when power will be restored. It’s very unsettling. But for the elderly and those on a fixed income, it’s much more serious.” Many of Orinda’s medically fragile seniors who rely on electricity for medical equipment, as well as other seniors, were contacted by The Orinda Association’s Seniors Around Town (SAT) program. In some cases, SAT staff and drivers drove to the homes of more isolated residents to ensure their safety. Mayor Inga Miller found a bright spot in the outage when attending the mayor’s monthly meeting. “I was heartened to hear how many residents were prepared with five-day water supplies and other necessi- ties. Many neighbors also checked around their neighborhood to be sure people were all right,” she says. The Thursday Food Trucks event and appreciative crowds attending, added a 6 n THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 BOOKS Orinda Author’s New Book Recounts Battle to End Biased IQ Testing

By KATHY BOHANAN ENZERINK discuss the book at Orinda Books Nov. 2. Glick. The CRLA attorneys knew tens of Staff Writer In 1966, the newly created California thousands of farm worker and other second- Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA) program, language students statewide had been t was 1968. Arturo, 10, was about to funded by President Lyndon Johnson’s sent to dead-end classes for the “mentally Ibegin third grade at Soledad Main Street Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, opened retarded” based on the tests. The courage Elementary School in Monterey County. nine offices in key agricultural valleys. of the parents set into action Glick’s two Before being allowed to enter the regular Glick, working for the Civil Rights Divi- years of extensive research to attack the classroom, he was sent down the hall to a sion of the Department of Justice in the inequality of IQ testing. special room and instructed to take a test South, was immediately hired to work at the Arturo was born at a Soledad farm labor to see what he had learned. The timed test Salinas office, 30 miles north of Soledad. camp and raised by his Mexican-born was administered in written English. Arturo Civil rights was his calling. “I have al- parents. Spanish was the only language he had not learned enough and was labeled as ways been willing to do what’s right at the knew when he started school and, there- being “retarded.” time,” said Glick. “This is what I wanted fore, he was assigned a seat in the back of The case of Arturo and others like him to do.” the classroom where his English-speaking resulted in a long legal battle to stop the In California, his focus became the plight teachers “simply ignored him as well as practice of administering racially and of the Mexican-American field workers. the other children of Mexican-American culturally biased IQ tests. Marty Glick, a Hours worked. Rate of pay. Labor condi- farm workers,” according to Glick. He was KATHY ENZERINK 30-year Orinda resident, was one of two tions. Fair housing. Receiving wages due. bright and energetic, but shy. Watching The Soledad Children is available at Orinda Books attorneys to lead the fight. Public education. In 1969, parents of two television became his self-teaching tool to and at online retailers. Co-author Marty Glick, an Glick, and co-author Maurice Jourdane, of the Soledad farm worker children came Orinda resident for 30 years, will read excerpts trace and recount their experiences in The forward to complain. and discuss the book Saturday, Nov. 2 from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. at Orinda Books. Signed copies may Soledad Children (Arte Público Press, Sept. “There is a major difference between be purchased at the event. 2019). He is scheduled to read excerpts and ‘can’t learn’ and ‘hasn’t learned,’” said learn English. After the IQ test, the Soledad children – Armando, Arturo, Diana, Ernesto, Manuel, Margarita, Maria, Rachel and Ramón – joined other students, ages seven to 13, in yet a different special classroom. They were “all Mexican except for one Anglo boy off in a corner,” as referenced in the book. A teacher handed out coloring books, pencils and magazines and their school days con- sisted of “coloring, cutting out pictures, doing a very little bit of easy addition and subtraction and recess,” Glick recalled. When Arturo asked, “Why are we in this place instead of real school?” Maria re- plied, “This is the room for kids they think are dummies. They never give us anything to do but baby stuff. I hate it.” Arturo was

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO [SEE GLICK page 12] The Orinda Library in November he Orinda Library and all Contra volunteer ESL teachers lead group discus- T Costa County libraries will be closed sions with ESL learners. Free and open Nov. 11 for Veterans Day and Nov. 27 and to all. Study Room A. Also Nov. 14 and 28 for Thanksgiving. 21. 4 Maker Monday. 1 p.m. Whether it’s Legos, 12 Orinda Writers’ Group, 6:30 p.m. Meet a craft, or Minecraft, something is always with a group of beginning writers and get happening on Monday. Suitable for elemen- feedback on two pages of writing (any tary school children. Also Nov. 18 and 25. genre) in Study Room A. Also Nov. 26. 5 Baby Storytime. Songs, stories and 15 Mystery Book Club. 3 p.m. Join to discuss rhymes for infants to pre-walkers (18 “The Patriarch” by Martin Walker. Study months) and their caregivers. 11:30 - 12:30. Room A. Also Nov. 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, and 26. 21 Contra Costa Tale Spinners. 7 p.m. 7 Computer help. 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Receive Geared for adults, features a local storyteller computer help from a knowledgeable vol- with an open mic afterwards. unteer. Registration required. Focus is for beginning users. Also Nov. 14 and 21. Send calendar items to Jill Gelster at calendar@ ESL Conversation Group. 1 p.m. Local aspenconsult.net. THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 n 7 PEOPLE Chiropractor Comes to Aid of Refugees at Camps in Jordan, Columbia

BY BOBBIE DODSON feeling of hopelessness pervades.” “In the city of Cucuta we worked with Staff Writer Buettner, who is one of the few chiro- a priest, Father David, who feeds 2,100 practors to go on these trips, says she can each day. Some people walked three days, hen Jacalyn Buettner says “serving understand why the refugees’ spines give in flip flops, to get over the mountains to Wpeople is my mission,” it isn’t just them so much pain – they are so tight. She Columbia, carrying what belongings they talk. remembers a 12-year-old girl who had lost could in a pillow case,” Buettner says. “I The Orinda resident who has run a chiro- the fingers on one hand in a bombing. remember one family where the mother practic practice in San Francisco for some “She was in so much pain, living with was nursing a baby and also had a two- and 34 years recently volunteered her services intense fear. I treated her every day and in four-year-old. Even these little children at refugee camps in Jordan and Columbia the end she was smiling,” she says. “What walked. They said they were walking to find with Flying Doctors of America. a gift that was to me.” work, money to buy food and a better life. “It’s difficult to understand the trauma On this trip, the group stayed in Amman Again dental work and problems of infec- those I saw in Jordan had undergone as and took more than an hour bus ride to Al- tion were paramount. Also, there was so they fled from bombings, saw their homes tra where a clinic was set up in an English much fear and tension causing pain which destroyed, lost everything,” she says. “They school. More than 700 patients a day were I was able to alleviate.” were from Syria where, it’s estimated, half triaged (this included taking height, weight, All who travel on these trips pay their of its population has been lost, with more blood pressure and the complaint) and then own way. For almost 30 years, Flying than six million people moving out. Many sent to the appropriate classroom. There Doctors of America has been bringing were well off before the war began, but now were surgeons, dentists, nurses and phar- together teams of health professions to they all are living in tents where the heat is macists. care for people who would not otherwise intense and such basics as clean water, and “The most common problem was infec- receive medical care. They operate under decent bathroom facilities are difficult to tion, dental work was badly needed, and the “Mother Theresa Principle,” which find and there is no work for them. Such a we did see a lot of gunshot wounds. Also, means they focus on the poorest of the poor. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO An 85-year-old Bedouin woman shows her ap- there was a great deal of depression,” she The organization has flown more than preciation to chiropractor Jacalyn Buettner after recalled. [SEE BUETTNER page 12] receiving a much-needed spine adjustment. “Most didn’t know what a chiropractor was, but it turned out I was the busiest doctor there. I often saw 100 patients in our long days. Healing through chiropractic care is what I do and the results were so gratifying. Besides treatment, just knowing that someone cares about them, raises the refugees’ spirits.” The group of refugees in Columbia CONTRIBUTED PHOTO who had fled from Ecuador had different In Jordon, with Flying Doctors of America, Buettner problems. With the economic chaos in their treated patients living in a refugee camp with mini- country, their money was worthless so they mal shelter and a small patch of farmable land. lacked the ability to buy food. Club Meetings in November American Association of University Women 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Miramonte Gardens - Orinda Moraga Lafayette Branch Clubhouse, 1 Miramonte Drive, Moraga to (AAUW-OML). General meeting third fund AAUW-OML scholarships awarded Tuesday, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Orinda Com- to local young women. See https://oml-ca. munity Church, 10 Irwin Way. Alicia aauw.net for reservation flyer. Hetman, expert on Title IX, the Federal Diablo Star Chapter #214, Order of the Law Prohibiting Gender Discrimination in Eastern Star. Second Monday, 7:30 p.m. Education, will speak on the importance 9 Altarinda Road, Orinda Masonic of and threats to Title IX. Admission is Lodge, Karen Seaborn, 925-689-0995. free and open to the public. Commu- Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe. Third nity leaders and educators are encour - Monday, 7:30 p.m., Garden Room, Orinda aged to attend. See https://oml-ca.aauw. Library, www.moragaadobe.org. net for more information. AAUW-OML Friends of the Orinda Creeks. Fourth Wednes- Game Day fundraiser Thursday, Nov. 14, [SEE CLUBS page 15] 8 n THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 ARTS November Galleries: Work of Area Teachers, Mini-Oriental Carpets

By ELANA O’LOSKEY To see the complete list of participants Staff Writer in “Teachers Have Class” go to The Orinda News online at www.theorin- he Lamorinda Arts Council this month danews.com. Tfeatures the work of current and retired teachers who are also artists in an exhibit Council Board Member Lois Reynolds called Teachers Have Class. created labels for the more than 50 works on Eighteen teachers from Lafayette, display. Council curators Maggie Boscoe, Moraga and Orinda elementary and middle Denise Nomura and Bill Carmel organized schools, the Acalanes Union High School the install and take-down of the artwork. District or those who have participated Many of the artists are intrepid travelers, in the Arts Ambassadors and Visual Arts which is reflected in the diversity of their Competition programs held at the Art Gal- artwork. lery at the Orinda Library are participating. The exhibitors are as follows: Maggie “Some of the days in November carry Boscoe, Orinda, ceramics, watercolors and the whole memory of summer as a fire opal photographs; Susan Dannenfelser, Lafay- carries the color of moonrise,” says Gladys ette, ceramics; Carla Gelbaum, Moraga, Taber. Like the fire opal, the walls and acrylic paintings; Tim Hancock, Lafayette, cabinets in the gallery carry the ripples of pen, ink and watercolor sketches; Lesley CONTRIBUTED PHOTO creativity sparked by the talented teacher/ Jensen, Lafayette, ceramic vessels; Linda Nicole Reader’s Rowing, a 30” x 40” acrylic on canvas. artists whose work is on display. Exhibit Kam, Orinda, botanical watercolors; Larysa tal photographic prints; Denise Nomura, she still loves cross stitching. fees have been waived by the council in Larson, oil paintings; JoAnn Lieberman, Moraga, Nihonga paintings; Nicole Reader, Ruzicka chose to create the designs in consideration of the dedication these educa- Lafayette, acrylic paintings, monoprints, Orinda, acrylic paintings; Lois Reynolds this show from Oriental Carpets in Min- tors have poured into the community. mixed media; Aram Muksian, Vallejo, digi- Mead, Orinda, acrylic paintings, handmade iature by Frank M. Cooper (1994). The books/journals, iPhoneography; Kirsten miniatures on display are the culmination Theurer, Danville, watercolors; Pam Toki, of 10 years of work based on Cooper’s Oakland, clay monoprints; Moose Wesler, designs which she describes as “magical San Leandro, linocuts; David Wilson, and masterful works.” Oakland, color pencil drawings; and Kim The entire work is done on cotton Aida H. Wong, Orinda, acrylic paintings. 14 count Victoria Red, Cross Stitch fabric Meet the artists at their reception 2:30 to with cotton DMC floss, two strands. Aida 4:30 p.m. Nov. 10. Light refreshments will cloth is an open weave, even-weave cot- be served. Go to The Orinda News online ton fabric. Its natural mesh and stiffness at www.theorindanews.com to see the work facilitates cross stitching. Two strands of of each teacher. cotton DMC floss – rather than three or six To learn more about the Lamorinda Arts – gives her the ability to create a fine, easily Council, go to www.lamorindaarts.org. [SEE GALLERIES page 12] The Art Gallery at the Orinda Library is at 26 Orinda Way. Open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. The library will be closed Nov. 11 for Veterans Day and Nov. 27–28 for Thanksgiving. Call 925-254-2184 for more information or visit http://ccclib.org/.

Art Gallery at Wilder: Miniature Ori- ental Carpets Bohuslava (Slavka) Ruzicka’s intricate cross-stitchery is on view this month at her solo exhibit entitled “Miniature Oriental Carpets.” Ruzicka, who was born in Czechoslova- kia, now the Czech Republic, began cross- stitchery 30 years ago in Singapore. There, when she joined the American Women’s Club, she said she was invited to create cross-stitched ornaments for a children’s orphanage. Never having tried it before, she did one. She said it turned out pretty ELANA O’LOSKEY good. Ninety-nine ornaments later, she was Turkish Mudjar, a 21” x 15” carpet, is part of Bo- huslava Ruzicka’s Miniature Oriental Carpets hooked. Now living in El Sobrante, she says exhibit, inspired by Frank M. Cooper designs. THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 n 9 CALENDAR?????? / ARTS

On the Calendar in November Five New Public Sculptures 1 Christian Ehrhorn Fine Arts, 5 p.m. grand debut film set in the 1950s when Turkey to be Installed This Month opening. 39 Moraga Way. Call 510-703- sent troops to aid the United Nations in the ater this month, five new pieces of 7020, email [email protected] for Korean war. A Sergeant in the Turkish army Lceramic sculpture will be installed at more information. See article p. 16. stumbles upon an abandoned five-year-old locations throughout Orinda, including City 2 Orinda Farmers’ Market, 9 a.m. Orinda Korean girl, takes her back to the base Hall, Library Plaza and Wilder, thanks to Way in front of Rite Aid and the Community where she captures the hearts of the Turkish the efforts of the Orinda Art in Public Places Park. www.cccfm.org or market hotline at brigade. Through Nov. 14. For show times Committee. 925-431-8361. Also, Nov. 9, 16, and 23. See go to www.orindatheatre.com. The works were made by artists Sandra article p. 11. 10 Art Gallery at the Orinda Library, 2:30 p.m. Jones Campbell, Alan Chin, Ann Chris- Art Gallery at Wilder, 2:30 p.m. Meet “Teachers Have Class” artist reception celebrat- tenson, Hans Miles and Rimas VisGirda; Slavka Ruzicka, view her exhibit, “Min- ing more than 18 local teachers who are also all were created at a facility of the Mis- iature Oriental Carpets” and participate artists. Meet them and enjoy light refreshments sion Clay Arts and Industry program in in a cross-stitching demonstration while See article p. 8. Phoenix, AZ. enjoying light refreshments. Wilder Art and Live at Orinda, 5 p.m. Performance by The Mission Clay facility produces vit- Garden Center, 20 Orinda Fields Lane, see Faith Prince & Jason Graae. The Broadway rified clay pipe in various diameters from article p. 8. duo join forces for an evening of music and 18 inches to 42 inches and lengths from 6 Orinda Books, 3:30 p.m. Orinda resident hilarity. Faith Prince is the Tony Award to 10 feet, weighing 800 to 4,000 pounds. Marty Glick, a litigator with the international winning star of Broadway’s Guys & Dolls Mission Clay founder Bryan Vansell firm, Arnold & Porter, will read from and and The Little Mermaid and TV’s Modern invites artists from all over the world to discuss his book, The Soledad Children: The Family and Jason Graae is an LA Critics Phoenix where he provides pipes, work Fight to End Discriminatory IQ Tests. See Circle Award winner and star of Wicked, space and access to huge kilns at no cost, article p. 6. * Ragtime and Scrooge In Love. Info. and encouraging them to turn a common clay St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 5:30 p.m. tickets at www.lamorindatheatres.com or pipe into an inspired work of art. To learn

The Festival Weekend of All Saints and All 925-254-9065. more about Mission Clay, go to www. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Souls. Honors our departed family, friends, 13 City of Orinda Senior Services, 9:30 mcpart.org. Artist Ann Christenson and her clay pipe Shimmy. and holy saints and ancestors, in community, a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Trip to Hiller Aviation with music, food, stories and prayers. Meet Museum - San Carlos Barcode: 2694. Where in the Memorial Garden. Also, Nov. 3, 8 Inspiration Takes Flight! The museum a.m. and 10 a.m. liturgies and remembrance chronicles over a century of aviation history of the dead (Litany of Saints) at 4 p.m. 66 St. and provides a glimpse into air transporta- Stephens Dr. Orinda. RSVP for Saturday’s tion’s future. Vintage and futuristic aircraft, supper by Oct. 31: 925-254-3770 ext. 10 or prototypes, photographic displays and [email protected]. models are on display. Activity Level 3. Fee: 3 Chromatica 3 p.m. Danville chorus per- $35 forming Northern European composers at 14 Orinda Theatre, 7 p.m. Classic Film Show- Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church at 433 case (free movie night) presents Grumpy Moraga Way in Orinda. $20 for adults, $10 Old Men, lamorindatheatres.com. See for students, and children under 10 free at article p. 14. www.chromaticachorale.org or at the door. 16 Orinda Books, 3 p.m. Sisters in Crime Mystery Includes a wine reception. Writers: Susan Bickford, Nancy Boyarsky 6 City of Orinda Senior Services, 10:30 a.m. and Janet Dawson will discuss their books, – noon, This is Your Brain on Pain, Presenter: The Ransom (Bickford), Dread of Winter Terri Night, PT, Orinda Community Center, (Boyarsky), and The Devil Close Behind Room 7, Barcode: 2745. One-hour interac- (Dawson).* tive workshop reviews current pain-related 17 Mindful Littles & White Pony Express, brain science and provides exercises and 1 p.m. Also, Nov. 19, 4 p.m. Family Vol- techniques. unteering Program facilitating projects at 7 Orinda Books, 10 a.m. Story Time with Cathy White Pony Express. Work on service proj- G. Join Cathy for a lively hour of books and ects to help communities served by White fun for kids of all ages. Also, Nov. 14 and Pony Express. 3380 Vincent Rd. #107, 21.* Pleasant Hill CA 94523, info@mindful- Orinda Books, 6:30 p.m. Noted trial attorney littles.org. Register at: http://bit.ly/2lxn6T4. James Bostwick will discuss and sign copies of https://mindfullittles.org/. his new legal thriller Acts of Omission, a grip- 19 Artisan Faire, 3 p.m. Supports Rescue One ping tale of a legal system gone awry. Gripping Foundation and Kerosene Lamp Foundation, courtroom scenes highlight this novel.* Orinda Country Club, 315 Camino Sobrante. Orinda Chamber of Commerce, 5 p.m., Orinda Books, 3 p.m. The World Affairs Mixer celebrating the season of Thanks- Book Group will discuss Into The Hands Of giving, Mechanics Bank, 77 Moraga Way, The Soldiers: Freedom and Chaos in Egypt Orinda. Call 925-253-2800 or visit www. and the Middle East, by David Kirkpatrick. orindachamber.org Group meets bimonthly.* Lamorinda Moms, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Preschool City of Orinda, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Curry Fair at the Oakwood Athletic Club Gym, Workshop, Barcode: 2661, Orinda Com- 4000 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette. Free munity Center, Room #4. $50/$57.50. Learn event open to the general community; 30 to transform spices into scrumptious curry area preschools represented. dishes from around Asia, such as Indian 8 International Film Showcase presents korma, Thai green curry, Burmese yellow Ayla: The Daughter of War, a Turkish [SEE CALENDAR page 11] 10 n THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 YOUTH Teens Express Essence of Lamorinda in Lafayette’s First Public Mural

By MIMI BOMBARITO other duties. planning went into its conception. Dutto reached out to Elizabeth Perl- Staff Writer The whimsical painted mural measures “This mural was planned with communi- man, founder and CEO of the popular approximately 7½ feet wide and 11 feet tall. ty input,” Dutto says. She tasked her artists local writing-based empowerment group, f a picture is truly worth a thousand Originally pieces of exterior-grade plywood to visually answer the question “What does The Intuitive Writing Project, for young Iwords, then a mural must be worth an panels, the colorful artwork neatly fills an it really mean to grow up in Lamorinda?” creatives who were also inspired by the entire dictionary – especially if it depicts entire back wall of a recessed niche that “We held workshops long before we written word, as the goal of the mural, in the essence of a hometown and was con- once housed ATM machines at the former picked up paint brushes. These creative addition to inspiring a sense of place and ceived and designed by visionaries who Wells Fargo Bank turned pop-up art gallery. collaborators engaged in historical research connectedness, was to visually tell a story. actually live there. The mural faces out onto a small parklike and written storytelling,” she says. “We Miramonte High School junior Reese Such is the case of the recently unveiled space and the parking lot of Sideboard and sketched and conducted interviews.” [SEE MURAL page 11] mural in Lafayette that was brought to Joe & the Juice. Lafayette’s intersection of life by Lara Dutto and a team of about 13 Mt. Diablo Blvd. and Moraga Road will Lamorinda youth artists. never be the same. Dutto, Orinda architect, wife and mother “We want to activate this corner,” said of three, and creative “imagineer,” spear- Dutto, “and ignite curiosity.” headed this multi-faceted project, exuber- Viewers are encouraged to park their antly fulfilling the aspects of the creative bikes or cars, and approach the mural process: sourcing the materials and fund- up-close for an opportunity to study and ing (courtesy of Village Associates Real absorb the many tales and truths whispered Estate), seeking the proper channels of in acrylic. approval, and recruiting busy teens who Although highly original and possessing could spare a few hours away from their a dreamlike sense of spontaneity, the mural chemistry homework, among a litany of was not created hastily. Much thought and

MIMI BOMMARITO Orinda architect Lara Dutto (back row, 2nd from left) and her talented team of young artists created the mural Our Home, recently unveiled at the corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd and Moraga Road in Lafayette. Several young artists who also worked on the project are not pictured here. Mural Artists Youth Collaborators: Brendan Bogen, Mia Dille, Mya Dunne, Genet Dutto, Makena Lai, Julia Little, Carsten Ristow, Evie Smith, Joe Smith, Maddie Stein, Mia Taylor, Reese Whipple and Maddie Venturini Adult Collaborators: Angela Ristow, Martin Segobia and Rigo Gonzales School Events in November 1 Holden High School, Transition field trip. 14 Sleepy Hollow Elementary School, 3:15 4 Glorietta Elementary, 8 a.m. Character p.m. School Site Council meeting. Trait Assembly/Gopher Pride. 15 Miramonte High School, 7 p.m. Per - Del Rey Elementary, 9 a.m. Assembly: formers for Progress - Cousins. Also Nov. Jabali Afrika. 16. Miramonte High School, 6 p.m. Boosters 16 Wagner Ranch Elementary School, Bandit meeting. Bash. OUSD, 6 p.m. regular board meeting. 18 Del Rey Elementary, 5th Grade overnight 5 Miramonte High School, 7 p.m. Freshman field trip through Nov. 20. Parent Discussion Group. 19 Miramonte High School, 7 p.m. Junior 6 AUHSD 7 p.m. Governing Board meeting. Parent Discussion Group. Also Nov. 20. 20 Miramonte High School, 8 a.m. Parents’ 7 Sleepy Hollow Elementary School, 8:15 Club meeting. a.m. School Board coffee meeting. Miramonte High School, 6 p.m. Cultural 8 Glorietta Elementary, GPC Executive Fair. Meeting, 10:30 a.m. 23 AUHSD and OUSD Schools Closed for 11 AUHSD and OUSD Schools closed for Thanksgiving through Nov. 29. Veterans Day. 25 Holden High School, Closed for Thanks- Orinda Academy, closed for Veterans Day. giving through Nov. 29. Holden High School, in session. Orinda Academy, closed for Thanksgiving Holden High School, 6:30 p.m. Parent Sup- through Nov. 29. port Group. 12 Miramonte High School, 7 p.m. Sopho- Send calendar items to Jill Gelster at calendar@ more Parent Discussion Group. aspenconsult.net. THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 n 11 OUTDOORS

t MURAL from page 10 if she were quizzed on that book the next day at school. Seasoned Shopper Whipple, 16, one of the participants, “On the first pages you will find only wowed the audience at the mural’s unveil- the surface, what we can physically see; Markets Wrap up for the Year with ing on Oct. 5 with her observations of the the theaters, the reservoir, the golden hills. creative process. Okay, this is good,” Whipple observed, “but Holiday Essentials BARBARA KOBSAR “How do you grab a torch, a map and it is not deep.” a backpack and take a journey inside your “Flip a few more pages and perhaps you own head to find that glowing crystal, that would get to the people and what they do; tart looking for some favorites at the to try a unique, delicious line of artisanal diamond in the rough?” the teen asked. how they act and what they look like. But SFarmers’ Market to get a jump on farm-to-table breads. Favorites include “How to be creative is something that is this is still not that deep. What you must holiday meals and festivities. The season summit whole wheat sourdough, whole hard to teach because no matter how many find in order to be creative are the bottom wraps up Saturday, Nov. 23 but tables are grain gluten-free sourdough and ginger art tutors, college camps or drawing classes layers; the page 108. Seek out not just the full of fresh fall produce, baked goods and apricot scones. Stop by the stand and Dan you take, it will never feel like enough. To objects but the feelings, the beautiful mys- specialty foods. can answer any questions about their breads find the great relic of creativity is something tery of it all – how does Lamorinda make Root vegetables like turnips, rutabagas, – from sourcing single varieties of wheat to we cannot teach. You must guide yourself you feel? What secrets does it hide?” beets, onions, kohlrabi and carrots are great using natural starters. to find it. ‘Teachers’ can only give you a “Past everything on the surface, you’ll keepers. Purchase early and store in the Home cooks will appreciate shopping for starting point.” find a million hidden, diverse communities refrigerator until ready to use. Pumpkins, new-crop almonds, walnuts, raisins, eggs Whipple said that in the first weeks of waiting to be discovered, subcultures of all winter squash and sweet potatoes also and dried fruits to create their own favor- working on Lamorinda’s first community kinds that you never even knew existed in keep well so when you spot the variety or ite dishes. Pie makers may choose from a mural, finding original, creative inspiration your own backyard,” says Whipple. shape you like, pick it up and store in a dry, variety of apples to make an uncooked pie was challenging, both personally and for “There are secrets and stories contained well-ventilated space until the carving or to freeze and bake fresh on Thanksgiving her fellow artisans. in this mural; like what is the meaning of baking begins. Day – smells great and guests enjoy the “I told this group from the beginning the big, green eye, or the bats, or the rain- Visit the booth for Marina Bay Bakery tasty results! that I would not draw this mural for them,” bow BART tracks, or the nest?” Dutto says. Persimmons add some flare to the holi- Dutto says. “There are many hidden gems you will want days as decorations and baked into tradi- Whipple says her personal method for to return to for a second, or a third look.” tional puddings, cookies and cakes. igniting her creative flare involved envi- Pomegranates are a once a year treat – sioning Lamorinda as a textbook, then Reach Mimi Bombarito at mimi.bombari- enjoy the seeds as a snack or add to winter asking herself what would be the takeaway [email protected]. green salads, toss a few on a dish of ice cream or yogurt or drop several seeds into a glass of champagne or apple cider. Many growers and vendors from the Orinda market attend the year-round Sun- day market in Walnut Creek. For more information go to www.cccfm.org or call the market hotline at 925-431-8361.

Barbara Kobsar sells her Cottage Kitchen jams and jellies at the JAM STAND at the Saturday Orinda market and the Sunday Walnut Creek market. She is also presi-

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO dent of CCCFM (Contra Costa Certified Hachiya persimmons are best enjoyed fully ripe, Farmers’ Market) Association Board of when their skins turn a deep orange color. Directors.

presents The Glorious - Handel Messiah. t CALENDAR from page 9 Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 24 curry, Indonesian red curry, etc. Bring your Knox, Lafayette. Tickets at www.pacific- sharp chef’s knife or cleaver, cutting board, chamberorchestra.org. hand towel, and beverage. Materials fee of * Orinda Books is at 276 Village Square, info@ $12 is due to the instructor. orindabooks.com, 925-254-7606. 21 Orinda Woman’s Club, 10 a.m. 33rd Fes- tival of Trees. San Ramon Marriott. Benefits CITY/FIRE MEETING SCHEDULE the Monument Crisis Center, Renaissance City Council. First and third Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Scholars of Cal State East Bay, Orinda Library Auditorium, 26 Orinda Way. www. Woman’s Club Community Service Com- cityoforinda.org. mittee. Tickets are $95 at www.eventbrite. Historic Landmarks Committee. Fourth Tues- com. Enter event code 62958154535 in the day, 3 – 5 p.m., Library Garden Room, 26 search box. For info. 925-963-6356. See Orinda Way. Call 925-788-7323. box p. 14. Moraga-Orinda Fire District. Third Wednes- 25 Orinda Books, 5:30 p.m. Eric Thurm will day, 7 p.m. Sarge Littlehale Community introduce Avidly Reads Board Games. Writer Room 22 Orinda Way, Orinda. For agenda and critic Thurm digs deep into his own www.mofd.org/board/meetings. experience as a board game enthusiast to Planning Commission. Second and fourth explore the emotional and social rules that Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Orinda Library Auditori- games create and reveal, telling a series of um, 26 Orinda Way. www.cityoforinda.org. stories about a pastime that is also about relationships. * Send calendar items to Jill Gelster at calendar@ 30 Pacific Chamber Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. aspenconsult.net. 12 n THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 CONTINUATIONS / CLASSIFIEDS t CHOW from page 1 did the front of the shirt. t VOLUNTEERS from page 4 t GLICK from page 6 To donate to Marisa’s team go to https:// of arthritis and to be more specific hers is events.arthritis.org/team/17038. To sign up Orinda. Prior to the city’s incorporation, relegated to the same classroom the fol- idiopathic, which meant one or more joints to participate in the run go to http://jbr.org/ the organization interacted with the county lowing year. are affected, and they don’t understand sanfrancisco. to ensure Orinda residents received their Unknown to these students and their fam- from where the arthritis comes.” fair share of services. Now, the OA keeps ilies, Glick said “they were among the more Through the Arthritis Foundation, Marisa Reach Bobbie Dodson at bobbiedodson@ active by running the SAT program, Fourth than 13,000 Mexican-American children has gone to a Teen Retreat and this summer comcast.net. of July celebration, the Volunteer Center, wrongfully placed in California’s Educable to the national convention in Minnesota. “It publishing The Orinda News and sponsor- Mentally Retarded (EMR) classes.” This was great to make friends and hang out with t GALLERIES from page 8 ing community forums. placement was “based on culturally biased peers who understood my pain. I have lots To get involved as a volunteer for any OA IQ tests given in a language the children did of friends who are so good to me, but to be visible line. DMC has been manufacturing program or send a tax-deductible donation, not read or understand.” with kids who also have arthritis creates a embroidery floss since the 1800s. See if you call 925-254-0800 or go to www.orindaas- The attorneys’ landmark class-action special bond,” she says. can count the horizontal threads in Persian sociation.org. cases, Diana v State Board of Education Christi Chow says her daughter moves a Kurdistan, a 20.5” x 13” miniature. and Larry P v Riles were filed in 1970 and little slower in the morning than she used Cross stitch and needlework can be found Reach Sally Hogarty at sally@theorin- 1972 respectively. The name Diana, rather to. But she credits the staff at Miramonte in the earliest human history, as far back danews.com. than one or more of the other Soledad for being accommodating, giving Marisa as the sixth century Before Common Era. students, was chosen by Glick because, “I extra time to take tests and allowing her Pieces of embroidery and needlework have liked the sound of it,” he said. to use a laptop to type instead of writing been found preserved in ancient Egyptian t BUETTNER from page 7 Diana ended the use of culturally biased, things down. She also has extra time to get tombs and in Medieval churches. The earli- 300 missions and provided free medical English-only IQ tests given to young farm to classes if needed. est known cross-stitch sampler made in the care to more than 285,000 children, women workers and other Hispanic children. It “I think that with today’s advances in U.S. is housed in Pilgrim Hall in Plymouth, and men. Among the areas served are took only 29 days for “the revolution in medicine and treatment Marisa should be Massachusetts. It was created by Loara Mexico, South America, Central America, treatment of the California-wide plaintiff able to do whatever she wants to do,” Cristi Standish, a pioneer of the Leviathan stitch, Caribbean, India, Africa, South East Asia class of schoolchildren, including the chil- Chow says. circa 1653. It seems its popularity has never (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia), China and dren in the Soledad school district,” said Marisa’s arthritis is the most common waned; in the iPhone App Store there are Mongolia. They are always looking for Glick. type in children under the age of 16 and 134 cross-stitch apps on offer. more volunteers. Diana was followed closely by Larry P can cause persistent joint pain, swelling and To see what it’s all about, meet the artist You don’t have to be in a medical profes- v Riles, a fight to end the use of the same stiffness. Some children may experience at her reception on Saturday, Nov. 2 from sion to go. Buettner’s friend, who works for biased IQ tests with African-American symptoms for only a few months, while oth- 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., where light refreshments Oracle, came and helped run the pharmacy. students. At the time, African-American ers have symptoms for the rest of their lives. will be served. Ruzcika is offering a demon- Buettner said an interpreter translated and Mexican-American students were 21.5 Sometimes there are serious complications stration of a cross-stitch work-in-progress some of the comments of patients: percent of the state education population, such as growth problems, joint damage and in Studio 4, adjacent to the gallery, where “I wish all people are like you. I feel I’m but were 48 percent of special education eye inflammation. the reception is held. She said she is eager a new person.” programs. In March 1970, Jourdane and The disease occurs when the body’s to share her knowledge of the symbolism “I’m so happy and lucky to be treated Glick wrote in the CRLA newsletter, “A immune system attacks its own cells and and history inherent in cross-stitch designs by you. Thank you for coming all the way month ago, Arturo’s chances of finishing tissues. It’s not known why this happens and answer questions about her work. from the States to help us.” high school were slim. Now, it would not but both heredity and environment seem to As the Wilder Art and Garden Center, “Thank you. I swear I love you.” surprise us to see him graduate from col- play a role. Marisa’s grandfather and great 20 Orinda Fields Lane, is a new building, “These love-filled statements are why I lege.” grandmother had rheumatoid arthritis. for now people can visit the Art Gallery at serve,” Buettner says. And he did. According to Arthritis Foundation staff Wilder the first Saturday of each month at member Maria Crowder, 53 million adults the artist reception from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Reach Bobbie Dodson at bobbiedodson@ Reach Kathy Enzerink via email at Kathy. and 300,000 children are living with arthri- or by arranging an appointment with co- comcast.net. [email protected]. tis, and children as young as nine months curator Denise Nomura at wildergallery@ have been diagnosed. lamorindaarts.org. Moving forward, more Marisa will be participating in the regular hours will be scheduled. Beginning Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run, Nov. 5, the gallery will be open Tuesdays which takes place Dec. 7 in Alameda. She and Thursdays from 6 – 8:15 p.m. The and her family have created a team that Orinda Parks and Recreation Dept. is hopes to raise $6,000. Current sponsors seeking bookings of classes and meetings. include Living Lean, Genuine Goodness, Contact them at OrindaParksandRec@ Morrison’s Jewelers and Orindawoods cityoforinda.org, visit them at 28 Orinda Tennis Club, and more are welcome. They Way or call 925-254-2445. call their team the Sharknados (after the movie) with their slogan, ‘Take a bite out of Email Elana O’Loskey at business.orinda@ arthritis.’ gmail.com. Marisa’s friends helped design a T-shirt for the walk. Jenny Shen drew the shark biting down on arthritis and Tess Hornbeck 2019 - 2020 Publication Schedule Orinda News classified ads ... Issue Deadline Dec. 2019 Nov. 8, 2019 Your ad in The Orinda News reaches 9,000 households and businesses in Orinda! ...classified ads Jan. 2020 Dec. 8, 2019 Help Wanted Ad rates are $5 per Volunteer Needed Volunteers needed to work in the Orinda Library’s Book Shop. Have fun selling line - $10 minimum There are 32 spaces per line. Count each letter, punctuation mark, and space between words. books to members of the community and beyond! Hours are 1-4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, Categories Name ______Category ______Thursday 1-4 p.m. and 4-6 pm shifts. Interested? Contact [email protected]. • For Sale Address ______Number of Lines ______Lulu’s Kitchen Knife Sharpening Services Cars (KSS) Free pick-up/delivery for all of our Lamorinda City ______Zip ______Phone ______Email ______clients. Same Day Service Available. Satisfaction Musical Instruments Guaranteed. Call Michael at 510-499-9377 Local Sports Equipment Write your ad in the boxes below with one letter, space or punctuation mark in each box. Cost is Orinda family since 1989. Miscellaneous $5 per line: $10 minimum. Total Clean. Serving Lamorinda homes since 1985. • Help Wanted Insured and bonded employees. 376-1004. • Household Services Services Caregivers Domestics Rain Gutter Cleaning. Roof Cleaning, overhang- House-Sitting ing branches trimmed. Charles (h) 925-254-5533 • Instruction (c) 925-528-9385. Music Lessons Vaya Travels to Cuba. Contact: call 510-292- Tutors 0400 or [email protected]. Miscellaneous Wanted • Pets • Pet Care I buy 1950’s Furniture. Danish modern, Herman • Rentals Miller, Knoll wanted. 1 item or entire estate! Call • Services Rick at 510-219-9644. Courteous house calls. Enclose your check payable to The Orinda Association and mail to Orinda News, P.O. Box 97, Orinda, • Vacation Rentals/ CA 94563. We reserve the right to reject any ad. Classified ads must be prepaid. Your cancelled check is Unwanted Eye Glasses are collected for Lions Home Exchanges Club at The Orinda Association office, 26 Orinda your receipt. Way, Orinda. • Wanted THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 n 13 AROUND TOWN Sleepy Hollow Learning Garden Celebrated at ‘Farm-to-Table’ Dinner

ifty people enjoyed a “farm-to-table” Garden and in support of the Sleepy Hol- students enjoy their time in the garden. I School. Fdinner at the home of Susan and Tony low Parents’ Club that funds the garden had no idea 20 years ago when we built In a ddition to the DiStefanos, the dinner DiStefano on Oct. 5 in celebration of Sleepy each year. the garden area that the kids would be was hosted by six Sleepy Hollow families, Hollow Elementary School’s Learning Twenty years ago, the DiStefanos do- learning about composting, germination with Diablo Foods donating sushi and nated the garden when their children were and patience. Gardening is not immedi- salmon and Belcampo Meat Company attending Sleepy Hollow, and these many ate gratification. It takes planning and the providing organic beef to complement the years later, they still grow seedlings in their students get to enjoy salads from lettuce salads and fresh vegetables. Event styling home greenhouse to create starter plants for seeds they planted.” services were donated by The Revelry the students to tend at school. Each week, With Sleepy Hollow’s garden well es- Company, along with plates courtesy of students visit the garden in support of tablished, DiStefano says her next goal is Bamboo Compostable. their classroom curriculum, putting newly to work with students at Miramonte High – Lynn Kalmar, Assistant Editor learned principles of math and science to the test as they study the plants and how they grow. Seasonal taste tests of the garden’s harvest are a favorite with students, sometimes leading to the discovery of a COURTESY OF ROBERT SCHROEDER PHOTOGRAPHY healthy new snack. Garden founder Susan DiStefano and Sleepy Reflecting on the gift, Susan DiStefano Hollow Parents Club president Dana Chiappone were among the hosts of the Oct. 5 dinner. says, “It does my heart good to see the Everyday rinda Pioneer Days and PG&E

MIMI BOMMARITO

s I await the pre-planned electricity for their First Thanksgiving re-enactment. Ashutoff by PG&E as a wildfire preven- Embracing the moment, I was thrilled to tion measure, I, like most Orindans, am present to my daughter authentic matching maniacally eager to complete my To-Do mother/daughter Pilgrim apparel, complete List. Minimally prepared yet anxiously with those funky Pilgrim bonnets. cleaning house to combat the fear of the My girl couldn’t have been more disap- unknown, it feels a lot like the days leading pointed. She wanted to dress as a Native up to the birth of my first child. American. All the kids did. However, as you read this, hopefully this “Fine,” I snapped. “But I’ve already throwback to candlelight and Pioneer Days spent way too much time finding us these will have passed, safely and uneventfully. awesome costumes,” I exaggerated. Truth All of this PG&E interference is mess- be told, a generous neighbor, a former ing up my joyful autumn vibe. I’ve always elementary school mom whose kids were loved this season of vibrant foliage and grown, casually inquired in passing if I’d beautiful, blinding sunlight. In addition to like to take them off her hands. “If you the quirky way that Orindans only trick- want to go as a Native American, then be or-treat in certain neighborhoods, our fair my guest,” I said, “I’m sure you can find city has many original autumnal traditions. a costume.” It’s no surprise that my mind is wandering I knew she wouldn’t make the effort. We toward First Thanksgiving at the Wagner went as matching Pilgrims, but I had to prom- Ranch Nature Area, and its director, be- ise not to stand anywhere near her all day. loved educator and naturalist Toris Jeager. The following year, when my middle With this impending power shut-down, I daughter’s fifth-grade class participated in am kicking myself for not paying closer First Thanksgiving, a memo went out — we attention to Toris’ lessons and instructions, still received neon-colored paper memos as she taught our kids the necessary life back then, in our child’s Friday Folder — skills of our resourceful and hardworking explaining that students would no longer pioneer predecessors. be permitted to attend First Thanksgiving Unfortunately, I remember only the dressed as Native Americans, as it was incidentals, like how my oldest daughter’s disrespectful. fifth-grade class was the last to be allowed I could understand where this reasoning to dress as Pilgrims and Native Americans [SEE EVERYDAY page 14] 14 n THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 FILM t EVERYDAY from page 13 the thoughtful and generous team of fifth- was coming from, but at the same time grade teachers at Glorietta even scheduled The Reel Less Traveled it presented an amusing conundrum. My a day for the students to make these shirts. middle daughter had informed me weeks Eventually, the entire costume aspect of prior to her First Thanksgiving event that First Thanksgiving was disbanded. And, there was “no way” she was wearing “that given how much our historical perspec- For Young and Old Alike Pilgrim dress.” Considering that I had to active of Thanksgiving has evolved, even Tom Westlake cess every motherly manipulation and bribe since 2009, I would have guessed that by at my disposal to get her to wear a dress to now this event was probably re-named the Spring Sing (cut me some slack, readers, Harvest Festival. Glorietta educator Alli- I’m from the South) I knew she would not son Bingham brought me up to date: “The his month brings more of the usual with films including the sequel to both of the take this news well. school district thought about changing it, Tboth the International Film Showcase aforementioned, but it is the first one we’re That particular transition year, 2009, but in the end, they didn’t; it’s still First and Classic Film Showcase offering their concerned with here. First Thanksgiving was a bit confusing. Thanksgiving.” Bingham added, “We teach collective best. There’s also some great In this film, they’re sniping next-door Despite the students’ insistence that they the kids about the falsehoods of the First news regarding the Rheem, but let’s start neighbors who are seemingly content to meant no disrespect to the Native American Thanksgiving now too.” with our extra curricular film choices. be so, that is, until Ann-Margaret moves population — in fact, in the students’ minds I’m off to check the batteries in my As the headline suggests, chronology in. From there, things go comically awry, they felt it was completely the opposite of flashlight and see if I can unearth any of plays a very large part and so, of course, but when you’re dealing with two pros like disrespect, as someone named ‘Massasoit, Toris’ Wagner Ranch Nature Area recipes I’m going to start with youth. I’m also go- Lemmon and Matthau, you can bet that the chief of the Wampanoag’ sounded infinitely in case this power outage drags on. All of ing to paraphrase an old adage: “It takes a wryness will be turned up to 11. And with cooler than someone named Edward Win- them, except that vile acorn mash, were regiment to raise a child.” other old pros like Burgess Meredeth and slow – the school district held firm. Eventu- pretty tasty. If I only had an adobe oven Ayla: The Daughter of War is a 2017 Ossie Davis, as well as other notables such ally, however, a compromise was reached: and Toris Jaeger as my neighbor, I’d be set. Turkish film that tells a true story about the as Daryl Hannah, the comic possibilities students who wished to dress as Native Korean War, its ravages and, particularly, are endless. It will also be showing at the Americans could instead wear tie-dyed T- Reach Mimi Bommarito at mimi.bom- the effect it has on the innocent people Orinda Theatre at 7 p.m. Nov. 14. Check shirts in fall colors. Allison Bingham and [email protected]. who have nothing to do with the conflict. in with www.orindamovies.com for this In this case, it is a little girl who is found and other non-cinema events. As usual, abandoned and nearly frozen. A courageous admission is free. soldier risks life and limb to rescue her. Now to that good news I alluded to ear- Obstacles immediately crop up, but despite lier. As mentioned in my earlier columns, the language barrier and no evidence of any [SEE REEL page 15] surviving relatives, the soldier informally adopts her. A strong but unofficial bond is t PRESIDENT from page 3 formed. I won’t reveal what happens next but if able members of our community. you’ve seen Charlie Chaplin’s The Kid, then We need your help in order to provide you have a pretty good idea what you’re in these needed services. Enclosed in this for. That said, it is highly recommended month’s newspaper is an Annual Appeal to bring some tissues with you. It will be Envelope. Please take the time to study screening at the Orinda for a week starting and familiarize yourself with the kinds 7 p.m. Nov. 8. For more information go to of programs that are being sponsored internationalshowcase.org. and consider becoming a donor for the Then, on the other side of the spec- year. trum, the Classic Film Festival presents We would like to keep providing these Grumpy Old Men, featuring the original services and wish to ask you to join us to Odd Couple, Jack Lemmon and Walter continue this journey of volunteerism. Matthau. This is clearly an example of repeated stunt casting as these two actors Reach Carlos Baltodano at cbalt.ldc@ have worked together in a number of other comcast.net. Tickets Available for Festival of Trees

fter months of planning, the Festival Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and Mon- Aof Trees, featuring an array of deco- terey. Baskets, wreaths and trees will rated trees, wreaths and baskets, is set to be raffled. take place this month. Sponsored by the The event includes a fashion show Orinda Woman’s Club, the event raises and lunch. Tickets are $95 each and funds for East Bay charities. can be purchased at www.eventbrite. The festival takes place 10 a.m. Nov. com. Enter event code 62958154535 21 at the San Ramon Marriott. Local in the search box. For more infor- businesses, artists and Orinda Woman’s mation contact Orinda Woman’s Club members have donated silent auction Club member Betty Brotherton at items that include travel to Lake Tahoe, 925-963-6356. THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 n 15 CLUBS / BUSINESS BUZZ t CLUBS from page 7 Foundation. Fourth Thursday, 7 p.m., so- keep the overall look of the place consistent to donate them to one of the Hospice of cial, 7:30 p.m. meeting. For more informa- with its current aesthetic. Contra Costa County’s 13 locations. day, 5 p.m., May Room, Orinda Library, tion 925-254-8260. We’ll know more in the months to come The anniversary celebration begins Dec. 510-919-4765. Orinda Teen Advisory Council. Second but in the meantime, remember to stay in 5 with an Open House from 11 a.m. to 3 Guided Meditation. Wednesdays, 9 a.m. St. Wednesday, 4 p.m., Community Center, 28 the dark for that’s where the reel magic lies. p.m. during which time visitors can fill Mark’s United Methodist Church, 451 Orinda Way, email orindateenadvisorycoun- out a card for a chance to win one of three Moraga Way, Orinda, focuses on health, [email protected]. Reach Tom Westlake at poppinjay@earth- gift certificates. Hilton House Friends and harmony and wholeness, 925-254-5965. Orinda Woman’s Club. Second Tuesday, 9:30 link.net. neighbors are also invited to attend the Lamorinda Alcohol Policy Coalition. Third a.m.. Call Jean Barnhart at 925-254-3881 or Orinda Chamber Mixer from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m., Orinda City Hall, go to www.orindawomansclub.org. t BUZZ from page 16 Enjoy light refreshments and live music Sarge Littlehale Room, 925-687-8844, ext. Sons in Retirement Lamorinda Branch 174. by Jose and Marcella Avila on keyboards 227. Second Wednesday, 11 a.m. lunch. Holy or many – that makes the difference. and vocals. Lamorinda Drum Circle from 11:30 a.m. Trinity Culture Center 1700 School St., “Harvest time is Oct. 15 to Nov. 15,” he Contact Hilton House Consign and to 12:30 p.m. Enjoy learning to drum in Moraga. A social organization of retired says. “I recommend harvesting and press- Design at 19-21 Orinda Way, 925-254- a small-group environment. Drums are and semi-retired men who enjoy leisure time ing on the same day or at most the morning 1113, [email protected] provided. Lamorinda Music, 81 Lafayette with friends and activities. For info., call after harvest. Keep the pressed oil in a glass or visit www.hiltonhousedesigns.com. Circle, Lafayette. Suggested donation Tyler at 925-963-5741, www.branch174. container at room temperature in a dark Follow them on Facebook or Instagram @ $10-$20. sirinc2.org. place and use it within a year.” hiltonhousedesigns. Lamorinda Meditation Community. Mondays Contact Autran at 415-595-0815, email and Thursdays, 10:30 a.m., Career Wisdoms Send calendar items to Jill Gelster at calendar@ [email protected] or visit www.oleas- To send items for consideration, email Institute, 1036 Country Club Drive, Moraga. aspenconsult.net cape.com for more information. Elana O’Loskey at business.orinda@ All levels and philosophies welcome. $5 gmail.com donation for the use of space. Contact Gaby t REEL from page 14 Hilton House Consign and Design for more details: [email protected]. Celebrates 20th Anniversary Lamorinda Nature Walk and Bird Watch- Derek Zemrak has done hero’s work in When Cyndi Hilton Girgis opened Hilton ing for seniors. Wednesdays, 9 a.m., free. trying to preserve this landmark movie House Consign and Design in 1999, she had Call 925-254-2445 for weekly meeting house and I’d like to think he had some- no idea it would become a go-to spot for information. thing to do with this new news. It would San Francisco Bay Area shoppers seeking Lamorinda Republican Women Federated. seem that, instead of the threat of losing the fine jewelry and estate pieces. Third Thursday. For more information, Rheem altogether, it’s actually going to get “Customers tell me we have the best search facebook for Lamorinda Repub- bigger! selection in the Bay Area of unusual gold, lican Women Federated or go to www. Although in the early planning stages, gemstones, diamonds and pearls. These are lamorindarepublicanwomen.org. Contact the new owners are planning to expand the the number one items that sell in Hilton Elsie Euing at [email protected] or Rheem from four theaters to six. The new House,” says Girgis. 925-254-8617. auditoriums will resemble very much how The store is filled with brand names such Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary. Breakfast, Fri- the Orinda Theatre is now. as Waterford, Lalique, Baccarat, Pottery days, 7 a.m. at The Lafayette Park Hotel If there’s a downside, it would appear that Barn, Ethan Allen furniture and Restora- & Spa, 328 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, there may be less places to park and there tion Hardware. Recycling items that are www.lamorindasunrise.com or lamorin- may be fewer seats but those that remain too good to donate by offering them via [email protected]. Meetings: Nov. 1: promise to be wider and more luxurious. consignment is a good option when people Professor Tim White, UC Berkeley – Lucy Moreover, there will be an effort made to move. If the items don’t sell, Girgis offers and Our Ancestors; Nov. 8: Aeleah Soine, Ph.D., The Fall of the Soviet Union; Nov. 15: Kate Rooney, KRON Sports Center Reporter; Nov. 22: 8:45 a.m. monthly box packing day at the Food Bank, 4010 Nelson Ave., Concord, and Gary Satterfield, Club Member Presentation; Nov. 23, 8:45 am - HOME Team at Gary Fulcher’s shop. Nov. 29 No meeting. Lamorinda Toastmasters. Every Tuesday, 7:30 p.m., Temple Isaiah, 945 Risa Road, Lafay- ette. http://lamorinda.toastmastersclubs.org. Montelindo Garden Club third Friday, Sept. through May. Nov. 15 Floral Creations with Nyna Dolby, Lafayette Library and Learning Center’s Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Orinda Association. Second Monday, 7 p.m., Orinda Library Plaza level, May Room, 925-254-0800. Orinda Garden Club, 315 Camino Sobrante, Orinda 925-257-0668, www.orindagc.org. Orinda Hiking Club. Every weekend and first Wednesday, www.orindahiking.org or Ian at 925-254-1465. Orinda Historical Society. Call 925-254-1353 for times and location of meetings. Open to public on Wednesdays, 1-4 p.m. Orinda Job’s Daughters. First and third Mondays, 7 p.m., 9 Altarinda Road, 925- 283-7176. Orinda Junior Women’s Club. First Tuesday, Sept. through June, 7 p.m. Orinda residents invited to learn about the group and how to give back to the community. RSVP on Facebook at Orinda Junior Women’s Club or at www.orindajuniors.org. Orinda Masonic Lodge #122 F&AM. First Thursday, except holidays. Fam- ily dinner at 6:30 p.m., meeting at 8 p.m., 9 Altarinda Road, Orinda Masonic Center. 925-254-5211, www.orindalodge. org. Orinda Rotary. Every Wednesday, noon, Orinda Community Center, 28 Orinda Way, 925-254-2222, www.orindarotary.org. Orinda Satellite Rotary Club. Second Wednes- day. Call Sylvia at 510-224-8548. Orinda/Tábor (Czech Republic) Sister City 16 n THE ORINDA NEWS n NOVEMBER 2019 BUSINESS BUZZ

Business Buzz Putting a Personal Face on Local Business Elana O’Loskey

Christian Ehrhorn Fine Arts “In response to all the technology we As Christian Ehrhorn drove by the under- are inundated with on a constant basis, construction building at 37-43 Moraga Way I believe that craftsmanship and the arts across from the Orinda Theatre he noticed should be celebrated and witnessed more he had memorized the phone number on the than ever. As a parent I appreciate our front of the building. This signaled that a Lamorinda school districts which value the long held dream of his – to open his own arts, music and sciences. I feel encouraged gallery – was rising to the surface; action by our commitment to our children to value was required. He made the call. these aspects of human existence and offer With his three sons in Orinda schools, he them the opportunity to participate,” says ELANA O’LOSKEY said it was important for him to locate his Ehrhorn. The gallery will showcase vari- Gallery owner Christian Ehrhorn is an artist in his own right; his painting Kekova is one of the works on gallery in his home town. ous types of artists from the Bay Area and display at his space in downtown Orinda. Months later, as remodeling and con- around the country. During his 10 years in the sustainable by people from all over the world, stu- struction of the space reached completion, A grand opening takes place 5 p.m. to landscape business he says he learned a lot dents were there to learn about olive trees Ehrhorn’s dream gallery took shape. The 9 p.m. Nov. 1. Light refreshments will be about what that means in the Bay Area. The for a different reason. Is the soil good? tall ceilings and light pouring in from the served. Christian Ehrhorn Fine Arts is at 39 drought California experienced during this Is the climate good? What is the light street onto pristine white walls created Moraga Way. Open Wed. to Thur. 11 a.m. time raised the bar as to what sustainable orientation? the perfect backdrop to show off original to 6 p.m. and Fri. – Sat. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. looks like in any landscape. Olive trees Beginning in 2016 he focused for two artwork. Spacious, uncluttered and serene Call 510-703-7020 or email caefinearts@ definitely qualify as sustainable. years on planting his own trees and main- come to mind to describe the vibe. gmail.com for more information. When his landscape contract ended he taining his olive grove. After purchasing his “I like being in the middle of downtown enrolled in a one-year program at Mont- own press in 2018 he pressed the oil for all Orinda,” says Ehrhorn, “Spending time Oleascape Boutique Olive Oil pellier University in France. Known as his clients. “Some clients want to spend the here has proved to me that there are plenty Frederic Autran grew up in Provence sur- the No. 1 location for agro-environment- day pressing the oil; others just want the of people passing by who might stop in to rounded by olive trees and their production. biodiversity, the campus is also the research bottle. It all works for me,” says Autran see some original art.” Olea – part of his business name – defines leader for new agricultural models and with a grin. He’s happy to let homeowners A UC Berkeley grad who studied social the genus we know as olive trees (Olea environmental management. Surrounded do as much or as little as they want from science and environmental design, Eh- europaea). No wonder the mix of olive trees beginning to end of each project. rhorn’s is the owner/designer/contractor at on his Orinda property mimics southern Oleascape LLC offers design assistance Misty Morning Gardens, a local landscape France, complete with two sleek donkeys to to bring fresh ideas to a garden using a design and construction company, since keep the weeds down and provide fertilizer legendary old tree; help with cutting edge 1998. (they can safely eat poison oak). planting techniques that are environmen- tally friendly and maintenance. Autran might begin with a delicious question: Do you have a preference as to the kind of olive oil you like? Greek? Spanish? Tuscany? Next he looks at the land, sloped or flat; what are your potential planting areas? Then comes a soil test; the journey to your own olive oil has begun. When he and his wife, Nancy, moved to Orinda in 2016 he says the whole idea was to connect with people, exchange ideas and promote small-scale production of olive oil on individual properties. While terroir is important for a vineyard, Autran doesn’t CONTRIBUTED PHOTO believe the same is true for olive trees. From planting trees to pressing olives for oil, Instead, it’s the practices, maintenance and Frederic Autran and his team at Oleascape offer a full range of services in support of the sustain- health of the olives – whether it is one tree able tree. [SEE BUZZ page 15]