Wednesday, December 19, 2012 • Vol. 6 Issue 21 ChristmasMonday, December Eve 24

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Visitors to Lafayette Reservoir annually decorate this plum tree found on the eastern side of the nearly three-mile paved trail. Photo Steve Hobbs

By Cathy Tyson ’m awestruck and amazed at its beauty and at the paved path closer to the water's edge, Hobbs finds some- Enchanted by the quiet solitude of the back country “Iwonderful variety of wildlife there,” says photog- thing new with each journey. His love affair with the trail that loops around the upper ridge of the reservoir rapher and Lafayette resident Steve Hobbs in describing Reservoir began about three years ago when a friend men- property, Hobbs wandered and observed and began to take his fascination with the Lafayette Reservoir. Even after tioned that the rim trail was accessible on foot from photographs of the scenery on the rim. hundreds of hikes on the rim trail and on the popular Mountain View drive. ... continued on page A12

Advertising Quote of the Week: Results.Moraga.Tara “I completely forgot about www.TaraRochlin.com 925.586.3442 [email protected] the pending end of the world, but it doesn’t really matter to me because I’ve always planned on With gratitude for wonderful clients and another successful year. working until the end of time anyway.” Read Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy 2013 to you and yours! Apocalypse Now? You Decide! on page B2. DFAL Soccer Kicks Off A Note About Our Dons take an early lead in DFAL play - see Sports, pages C1-C3 Distributor

Town News A2 - A12 Blackhawk Enterprise (email – Life in Lamorinda B1 - B12 [email protected]) has been Service Directory B9 delivering the Lamorinda Weekly to Food B9 all homes in Orinda, Lafayette and Not to be Missed B10-B11 Moraga since January 2011. The team Business B12 of eight drivers works hard to make Sports C1 - C3 sure you get your newspaper every Classified C2 other Wednesday. Blackhawk HOW TO CONTACT US C3 Enterprise and its team members Shop Moraga C4 would like to wish our readers a Our Homes D1 - D8 joyous holiday season and a very This Week Read About: happy new year. You will also see a Council Farewells A2, A4 flyer from them in this week's issue. No Farewells in Orinda A6 New to MOFD A11 Thank you, Got Olives? Get Oil! B3 Making a Difference B6 Lamorinda Weekly Mistletoe B7 Mayor Days be Merry B9 Life After Massage Parlors B12 First One There C1 Acalanes senior Ben Croze (#19) leads the Dons, currently ranked 10th in the state, in goals and assists. Photo David Lee Independent, locally owned and operated!

Life in Lamorinda B1-B12 Our Homes D1-D8 Christmas A Warm Fire Collections on a Cold Night Cathy Dausman looks at Cathy Tyson enjoys some some of Lamorinda's delightful Lamorinda favorite things. fireplaces. Page B1 Page D1 Page: A2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012

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#1 Agent in Lafayette www.DanaGreenTeam.com Thanks and Praise at City Council Reorganization By Cathy Tyson tenure was marked by civility and re- of serving on the city council was spect. making decisions based on what is in Former vice mayor, and now the best interest of Lafayette and all mayor, recently re-elected Mike An- residents. derson joked, “You’re going to miss Longtime council member Tatzin Civic News us, but when you come back you only told Anduri, “I look up to your contri- Public Meetings get three minutes,” referring to the al- butions and your powerful vision for lotted time for members of the public the city. We’re very fortunate to have City Council to comment on issues. had your exceedingly sound judg- Not available at press time “It’s been a pleasure to serve with ment.” He also thanked Federighi as Lafayette Library & Learning Center, you,” Federighi told her fellow coun- the best advocate for the three-minute Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. cil members. “It’s truly been a privi- rule, “A true velvet gavel.” Planning Commission lege and honor. This has been a “It’s been an absolute pleasure,” wonderful community to live and said City Manager Steven Falk, com- Monday, Jan. 7, 7 p.m. work in.” She reflected on the plimenting the pair for their incisive Lafayette Library & Learning Center, Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. changes that have happened down- analysis and probing questions, civil- New council members Mark Mitchell and Traci Reilly Photo Cathy Tyson town during her volunteer service to ity and for their “fair and respectful Design Review t was the end of an era last Mon- keep the city running. the community, including new busi- treatment of staff.” Both Federighi Monday, Jan. 14, 7 p.m. Iday night, as two longtime City With heartfelt comments all nesses and restaurants, a new afford- and Anduri received gifts of Lafayette Library & Learning Center, Council members retired after a com- around, it was obvious the two coun- able senior housing project in the Lafayette-opoly from city staff and a Arts & Science Discovery Center, bined 37 years of volunteer service on cil members stepping down from the works, passing the downtown specific framed small reproduction of the ban- 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Lafayette’s Planning Commission dais will be missed. Having won plan, creating a downtown historic ners with signatures of city staffers on School Board Meetings and City Council. Former Mayor seats in the November election, new- district, and the soon to be authorized the back. Acalanes Union High School Carol Federighi sat on the council for comers Traci Reilly and Mark wireless facilities ordinance. Council freshmen Mitchell and District 13 years, serving three times as Mitchell change up the membership Thanking his wife, city staff, and Reilly graciously thanked family and Wednesday, Jan. 16, 7:30 p.m. mayor, and prior to that spent eight of the city council for the first time election volunteers, Anduri went on friends who made their election to the Board Room AUHSD Office years on the planning commission. since December 2006 when Brandt to praise the creation of the environ- city council possible. Reilly called 1212 Pleasant Hill Rd., Lafayette Carl Anduri had been on the council Andersson joined the team. The “Fab mental and senior housing task forces. the transition “pretty amazing,” and www.acalanes.k12.ca.us for 10 years and planning commis- five” –Federighi, Anduri, Andersson, He said his biggest regret was the commented that she is surrounded by sion for six. All told, that’s countless Don Tatzin, and Mike Anderson –had timely repair of all the residential four men at home, her husband and Lafayette School District Monday nights, listening to potential a good working relationship; while roads in the city; Anduri had worked three boys, and now on the dais, once Wednesday, Jan. 9, 4:30 p.m. ordinances, proposed projects, budget they didn’t always agree with each diligently on the Fix our Roads cam- again surrounded by four men. Special Board Meeting dilemmas and task force reports that other at city council meetings, their paign. In his opinion, the hardest part Tuesday, Jan. 15, 7 p.m. Regular Board Meeting Stanley Library Lafayette Sinkhole on the Mend 3477 School St., Lafayette By Cathy Tyson www.lafsd.k12.ca.us deluge of rain on Dec. 2 caused a Check online for agendas, meeting Atorrent of water that when coupled notes and announcements with upstream debris blocked a Mt. View City of Lafayette: Drive storm drain. All that water swirling www.ci.lafayette.ca.us around eventually chipped away at soil Phone: (925) 284-1968 above the drain and under the roadway and Chamber of Commerce: – voila! A 15-foot sinkhole was born. www.lafayettechamber.org When the roadway collapsed, utilities pipelines also took a hit: PG&E, EBMUD and the sanitary sewer lines needed an im- please... mediate fix. Utility crews rallied to restore service and city engineering staff had to hustle to complete plans in order to get a permit from the Army Corps of Engineers. Working late into the night, Engineering Services Manager Tony Coe, Senior Engi- neer Farzaneh Sanders and Associate En- gineer Matt Luttropp produced the detailed plans necessary for repair work and man- aged to get the critical paperwork in by a 6 ...thanks! a.m. deadline the next morning in San Photo Cathy Tyson Francisco. ... continued on page A10

12/4 3300 block Mt Diablo Bl Burglary/Theft 11/26 900 block Acalanes Rd (ID) HOLIDAY SALE 3100 block Bradena Ln (auto) 1200 block Monticello Rd (petty theft) Police Report 11/27 3500 block Mt Diablo Bl (petty theft) Read Dr @ Rohrer Dr (auto) Nov. 24 - Dec. 8 400 block Los Arabis Dr (residential) Accident 12/1 100 block Lafayette Cr (auto) 11/26 1600 block Reliez Valley Rd (accident/injuries) 12/3 3600 block chestnut St (petty theft) 11/28 900 block Dewing (hit & run) 3400 block School St (auto) 11/29 Mt Diablo Bl @ Oak Hill Rd (accident/injuries) 12/4 1100 block Glen Rd (access card) Happy Valley Rd @ Hwy 24 (reckless driving) 12/5 4100 block Hidden Valley Rd (credit card fraud) F INE 12/1 900 block Moraga Rd (hit & run) 12/6 4000 block Los Arabis (grand theft) EWELRY Pleasant hill Rd @ Rancho View Dr 1800 block Reliez Valley Rd (credit card fraud) J (accident/injuries) 1100 block Upper Happy Valley Rd (ID theft) AND WATCHES 1st St @ Mt Diablo Bl (reckless driving) Glenside Dr @ St Mary’s Rd (auto) 12/3 Hwy 24 @ Central Lafayette exit 12/7 3500 block Boyer Cr (auto) OPEN M-F 10AM-5:30PM, SAT 10AM-4PM (accident/property damage) 3600 block Happy Valley Glen Rd (petty theft) SPECIAL HOURS: SUN. DEC 23 11AM-4PM 2nd St @ Mt Diablo Bl (accident/property damage) 12/8 1100 block Garden Ln (ID theft) CHRISTMAS EVE 9AM-5PM 3500 block Mt Diablo Bl (accident/property damage) Drugs 12/4 First St @ Deer Hill Rd 12/1 900 block Hough UP TO 12/5 100 block Springhill Ln (hit & run) Promiscuous Shooting 12/6 Hwy 24 @ Central Lafayette exit (reckless driving) 12/7 800 block Rosedale Av 40% OFF Mt Diablo @ Oak Hill Rd (reckless driving) Brook St @ Dewing Av Alcohol Vandalism 11/28 Reliez Valley Rd @ Withers (drunk in public) 11/26 900 block Dewing Av 11/30 200 block Lafayette Cr (intoxicated) 1000 block Brown Av MORAGA JEWELERS Animal Control 12/4 3600 block Mt Diablo Bl 11/27 Deer Hill Rd @ Sierra Vista Wy 12/8 200 block Lafayette Cr (two calls) 562 Center St., Rheem Valley Shopping Center 12/5 700 block St Mary’s Rd Traffic Stops (925) 376-1283 Battery Week ending 12/01/12 111 FULL WATCH & JEWELRY REPAIR SERVICES ON SITE. 11/30 3500 block Mt Diablo Bl Week ending 12/08/12 66 Wednesday, December 19, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A3 Los Arabis Station Set to Close in January Keith Katzman By Cathy Tyson Knows Moraga Real Estate

925.376.7776 [email protected]

From my family to yours... Off -duty firefighters packed the County Board of Supervisors auditorium to hear the final decision on station closures. Photo C. Tyson he Board of Supervisors knew teria including call volume and the May you have a warm, safe and Tthis moment would come when ability of adjoining fire stations to “ab- very happy holiday season. Proposition Q failed to garner the nec- sorb” the call volume and work load. essary 66 percent of votes to pass a “Obviously this is a very difficult time, seven-year, $75 per parcel tax to help we’ve worked hard to avoid coming to We thank you for your continued fund Contra Costa Fire Protection Dis- this point,” said Louder. Lafayette is trict (Con Fire).The board voted Dec. left with two fire stations— Station 15 11 to close four fire stations– the Los on Mt. Diablo Boulevard, and Station Arabis station in Lafayette, along with 17 in Burton Valley. stations in Walnut Creek, Clayton and Members of the public along with Sincerely, Martinez. Closing these facilities in city officials from the affected areas The Katzman Family January will save approximately $3 were present to convey how unhappy million, according to Fire Chief Daryl their constituents are. Rob Schroder, Louder. the mayor of Martinez said, “This is In a nutshell, Louder said that re- not going to solve the problem in the serve funds have been tapped out and long run.” Calling Measure Q a there is not enough money to keep all “seven year band-aid,” Clayton mayor Moraga Resident since 1966. of Con Fire’s stations open for busi- Howard Geller pointed out that he has- Successfully selling real estate for over 28 years. ness. Prior to the November n’t heard how the funding issue will be election,he warned that this would be fixed,and called the Clayton station the consequence if measure Q wasn’t closure “an inequitable hit;” he hinted passed. Part of Con Fire’s troubling fi- at possible litigation. Closing Fire Sta- nancial picture stems from its primary tion 11 would leave Clayton without a funding source – property tax revenue fire station within city limits. has declined by $32 million dollars In one possible adjustment to serv- over the past four years. Add in rising ice, since the vast majority of calls are pension and health insurance costs, and medical in nature, Louder said he the situation becomes untenable. Per- would consider staffing stations with A Member Of Real Living sonnel costs account for 85 percent of less expensive paramedics or emer- the $102 million budget for fiscal year gency medical technicians. Firefighter 2012-2013. Union President Vince Wells wasn’t Steps have been taken to trim ex- thrilled, saying EMT costs shouldn’t penses where possible, employees come out of the fire district budget, What's on YOUR List? took a 10 percent salary reduction, and rather from American Medical Re- some positions have been eliminated. sponse – the county’s ambulance Christie Craig, Senior Loan Officer Pamela Halloran “We already have a very lean system,” provider. Mason-McDuffie Mortgage Pacific Union International said Louder, “and we’ve continued to Public speakers from Lafayette work on structural reform.” The Fire suggested reducing personnel down to & Chief’s Budget Narrative in the official two for each of the city’s three stations. 2012-2013 budget paints a dire picture: Mayor Mike Anderson called the Need a House or Need a Loan? “We currently project a $16 million downsizing “an opportunity to try this deficit for FY 2013-2014 and $19 mil- innovative approach on a limited We are here to help! lion deficit in FY 2014-2015 and basis,” and pointed out that of the Happy Holidays, FY2015-2016. It would require clos- many communities within Contra Christie and Pamela ing a third of our fire stations to offset Costa County that Con Fire serves, the deficit.” Lafayette’s property tax contribution Lamorinda residents are particu- injects approximately $1.2 million larly concerned about the Los Arabis more than it actually costs to run the station in Happy Valley. Firefighters three stations here. Citing safety con- moved out in June, due to mold and ro- cerns for firefighters and the public, dent intrusion. Those firefighters are Wells was not supportive of the sug- Christie Craig Pamela Halloran now housed at another station about a gestion. After many long hours of pas- A Member Of Real Living Senior Loan Officer Real Estate Broker mile away. Addressing the supervisors, sionate commentary, all five [email protected] Louder explained in a very busi- supervisors said they had no other op- 925.298.4950 [email protected] 925.323.4100 nesslike manner why these stations tion and voted unanimously to close NMLS # 227026 License #00935191 were selected, based on a range of cri- the four fire stations. Entire Stock of All Cuddl Duds Karen Neuburger Miss Elaine Sleepwear & Socks Cozy Winter Robes Jockey and Sleepwear

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Civic News May it be filled with Public Meetings joy, laughter, and prosperity! Town Council Julie Barlier Wednesday, Jan. 9, 7 p.m. (925) 588-4300 Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School, Realtor® 1010 Camino Pablo [email protected] | www.JulieBarlier.com Real Estate Chair, Lafayette Partners in Education Planning Commission Monday, Jan. 7, 7 p.m. Council Bids Farewell to Mendonca and Harpham Moraga Library, 1500 Saint Marys Rd. Elects Dave Trotter and Ken Chew as mayor and vice mayor, respectively Design Review Monday, Jan. 14, 7 p.m. By Sophie Braccini make tough decisions. Resident Ellen Beans, of Moraga Library, 1500 Saint Marys Rd. Moraga Citizens Network, praised her enthusi- School Board Meeting asm, her accessibility and her support of events Moraga School District such as the California Independent Film Festival. Tuesday, Jan. 8, 7:30 p.m. Beans described Harpham as the heart of the Joaquin Moraga Intermediate team that worked on the Revenue Enhancement School Auditorium Committee task force, where he manifested his 1010 Camino Pablo, Moraga conviction of the council’s moral obligation to www.moraga.k12.ca.us inform residents about the reality of situations. See also AUHSD meeting page A2 Many speakers pointed to Harpham as the moral compass of the council. His wit, vast culture, in- Check online for agendas, meeting tellectual honesty and deep voice will be missed. notes and announcements Mike Metcalf, who won re-election, and new Town of Moraga: council members Roger Wykle and Phil Arth were www.moraga.ca.us sworn in. The reconstituted council then turned its Phone: (925) 888-7022 attention to the election of the mayor and vice Chamber of Commerce: mayor. In a slightly cautious tone, Keimach indi- www.moragachamber.org cated that the tradition had been to rotate the Moraga Citizens’ Network: mayor’s position according to who received the Council members Roger Wykle, Mike Metcalf and Phil Arth are sworn in. Photo Andy Scheck highest number of votes in the general election. www.moragacitizensnetwork.org oraga Town Council members Karen During their last council meeting Mendonca Last year there was there a break from that tradi- MMendonca and Howard Harpham partici- and Harpham were praised by the people who tion, but this time around it was upheld as a unan- Police pated in their last council meeting Dec. 12. Men- worked with them. imous vote by the council sent Trotter to the donca lost her seat in the last election and Contra Costa County Supervisor Candace An- mayor’s seat and installed Ken Chew as vice Report Harpham opted not to run for a second term. Lam- dersen praised her good friend Mendonca as a mayor. orinda’s only all-male council unanimously woman of integrity and character who is always Carport storage break-in, 12/10/12 An Read more about Mayor Trotter and his goals Ascot Drive resident wasn’t sure of the elected Dave Trotter as mayor for 2013 and Ken well prepared. Town Manager Jill Keimach for the town in our first issue of 2013, which will time or date, as much as a week earlier Chew as vice mayor. thanked Mendonca for having had the strength to be delivered Jan. 2. when an unknown subject broke into the storage unit located in the carport. No ideas on a possible suspect. Esti- New Moraga Road Development Inches Forward mated loss $1,200. By Sophie Braccini eveloper Signature Properties would be 12 visitor parking spots. sive for the location. Because the garding the latter issue, Signature Shed break-in, 12/10/12 Joaquin Mor- aga Intermediate School staff reported Dreceived support from the The developer felt that the Town project is located along a scenic cor- Homes’ John Bayless suggested that a burglary to a custodial storage shed Moraga Planning Commission on has been sending mixed messages ridor, they discussed at length ways to the solution was not to add a pedestrian on the northeast corner of the property. Dec. 3 for its latest design of 18 sin- about this project, first asking for shield views of driveways where it is crossing at the site, which would mean Forcible entry was made using a pry gle-family, high-density homes at 489 more density, then for less. “We en- likely that people will leave their cars; adding a median landing for safety and tool of some sort. Maintenance equip- Moraga Road—the land across from courage higher density housing op- as garages tend to be used, at least could have a big impact on the flow of ment valued at $2,500 was taken. Rheem Shopping Center that once tions here,” said Planning Director partially, for storage. They also em- traffic on Moraga Road, but rather to Who would steal a used lawnmower? featured a bowling alley. Shawna Brekke-Read. But Signature phasized the need for pedestrian side- allow residents of the development to Under the plan, three single-fam- Properties, with 20-plus years experi- walks and visitor parking in the cross the street only at the existing Counterfeit cash, 12/09/12 An adult ily residences would face the busy ence in development in the Bay Area, development because parking is not crosswalks to the north and south. male attempted to pass a counterfeit thoroughfare, while 15 more homes said that higher density options such allowed on Moraga Road. The commission decided to wait $100 bill to buy $6 worth of items at would be staggered across the prop- as condominiums would not sell in Some traffic-related concerns re- for a traffic study before making rec- Moraga Hardware. Smart clerk erty. The proposed two-story homes Moraga. main unresolved. The entrance to the ommendations on design and rules checked the bill and determined it would be built along a U-shaped road, “We want a project that would be development would be located a few for access to and from the develop- wasn’t real – returning it to the would- be shopper. Fellow left the area in a offering two access points to the de- economically sound,” agreed com- yards north of the shopping center’s ment. It is likely that this will come large SUV, clerk was able to write velopment. Each home would have a mission chair Stacia Levenfeld. main entrance. There are two types of with the final design the developer down the car’s California license plate two-car garage and range in size from The commissioners indicated that traffic issues: ingress and egress of the will submit for approval in the com- number. Police checked DMV 1,900 to 2,700 square feet. There 2,700 square feet was probably exces- property, and pedestrian crossing. Re- ing months. records and found that the license was not on file. SHARE THE JOY! BUY A BULB! Bike theft, 12/06/12 An Ascot Drive resident left a locked bike underneath HELP THE TOWN RAISE $5000 the stairs of the apartment complex. Blue Ridge Cabinets FOR THE HOLIDAY TREE Sometime between 12/06 and 12/08 the bike disappeared. Estimated loss Kitchens • Baths • Custom Cabinetry $540 RAISED SO FAR; ALL $200. DONATIONS WELCOME! Cat fight, 12/07/12 Two female Ascot Steve Gorman (925) 798-4899 Drive roommates had a dispute over a [email protected] MORAGA PARKS & RECREATION mutual love interest. One of the girls 925-888-7045 • www.moraga.ca.us lashed out at the other, punching her in www.blueridgecabinets.com Lic. 810658 the face. Roommate confessed to the battery and apologized for losing con- trol of her emotions. Roommate agreed with the cop’s suggestion to spend the night somewhere else. The victim declined to press charges. “A High-tech Brain with the Patience Happy of a Mother” Holidays D.U.I., 12/05/12 A white Chrysler was pulled over in front of 7-11 around 11 Lic #855456 Give your computer p.m. for numerous vehicle code viola- The Haddon Family, Orinda Residents, Owners/Operators a thorough cleaning tions. As usual, field sobriety tests Do business were performed, and the driver with a neighbor. Fast Expert Computer Help flunked. Officers escorted the subject into the Moraga P.D. booking room from techmommy! where he became physically combat- ive and fought with cops. Now in ad- • Troubleshoot any PC problem. dition to D.U.I. charges comes • Help in plain English, not tech talk. obstructing police duties and assault- • Virus and spyware removal, system clean-up. ing a police officer. Way to make a • Learn all of the software on your computer. bad situation worse. Finally, the fel- • Master e-mail, web searches, filing, attachments. low’s car was towed away. • Pre-purchase help for computers and electronics. • Program iPod, cell phone, Blackberry, camera, GPS. Lamorinda Weekly also received a re- Your comfort is our #1 priority • Set-up and configure new computer, peripherals. port of a gasoline theft Dec. 12. Two • Hardware upgrades, home network repairs. Donald Drive homeowners were • Learn the latest software back-up techniques. shocked to find that the extra car they Winter Tune-Up • Personal training in your home, at your pace. park on their property adjacent to their house was out of gas, when it was just “If your computer needs Special $59 925-377-7711 attention, call techmommy, a computer expert filled up the day before. Apparently that can skillfully fix it. Also, techmommy sometime during the night an un- www.techmommy.com guides you, teaches you, and shows you the ins and outs of your computer in no time at all.” known suspect siphoned out an entire 925-521-1380 Serving the Bay Area’s Technology – Marian Nichols, Moraga tank of gas. www.haddonheatingcooling.com Needs Since 1985 Wednesday, December 19, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A5

School Board May Appoint New Member 50% off jtÜx Wxá|zÇá Watch Battery Y|Çx ]xãxÄÜç á|Çvx DLJJ Now $5, Reg $10 1 watch battery per person. Exp. 12/31/12. Tomorrow Usually installed while you wait. W/coupon. Restrictions apply. By Sophie Braccini he resignation of Dexter Louie procedures that must be followed will be immediately sworn in. Tshortly after his re-election to when a resignation occurs. The If a clear majority cannot be the Moraga School Board in Novem- county superintendent or the board found, the board can call an additional ber left a vacant seat at the table. On can call a special election, or the meeting and request a forum of final- Tuesday- 3645 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette Dec. 11 the board decided to select a board can develop a process to make ists at a subsequent meeting. In the Saturday between Trader Joes & the Post Office provisional appointee to serve until a provisional appointment. event a majority of the board still 10-6 283-2988 www.waredesigns.com voters return to the polls in November At tomorrow night’s meeting, ap- can’t agree on an applicant, the board 2014. The deadline for interested res- plicants will be asked to give two- may call for an election. idents to apply for the seat was noon minute statements introducing The Education Code also pro- today. The selection process will be themselves and suggesting strategies vides for the community to petition held during an open board meeting to address the important issues facing the board's appointment if it doesn't the evening of Dec. 20. the Moraga School District. The agree with the appointment. If Peralta Construction A few residents asked the board Board will ask applicants a set of pre- enough signatures of registered voters CUSTOM HOMES | ADDITIONS | REMODELING to appoint Parker Colvin, who was pared questions and they will have are collected and approved by the owned and operated by Moraga resident one of the candidates for a seat in No- two minutes to answer each question. county superintendent, the appoint- Pat Geoghegan vember. Superintendent Bruce Burns The board president will then ask for ment is ended and an election is said that the district could not have nominations of candidates and the called. simply decided to appoint Colvin be- board will vote. If a candidate re- cause the Education Code establishes ceives a majority of votes he or she Town Trivia any were surprised at the she and her staff need to refer to Mor- Please submit MDec. 12 meeting of the Mor- aga as a legal entity, it’s a city; the rest aga Town Council to read county doc- of the time, it’s a town. Council mem- Letters and Opinions: Lic #624045 uments in which Moraga is listed as ber Mike Metcalf wondered aloud if the City of Moraga and not the Town he should refer to it as “the city of the letters@lamorinda BUILDING THE BAY AREA FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS of Moraga. Town (or City) Manager Town of Moraga.” weekly.com 925.273.7692 Jill Keimach confirmed: “The legal Your Lamorinda Weekly staff www.peraltaconstruction.com status of Moraga is that of a city, not wonders if it should now refer to a town, however it has retained the “Lamorinda’s three cities” rather than ‘Town’ name, like Danville did, to the slightly less graceful “two cities emphasize its rural nature.” So when and a town…” S. Braccini

Town Seeks Volunteers Many volunteer positions need to be filled on Moraga’s different commissions, committees and boards that are essential to the civic process. Seats are up for grabs on the Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, Design Review Board, Traffic and Safety Advisory Committee, Audit and Finance Committee and ADA Advisory Committee. The deadline to apply is Jan. 11, 2013. Starting in January, the Council will define the charter for the new Citizens Oversight Committee for Measure K and volunteers will be needed to serve there as well. For more information on vacancies or to learn how to apply, go to www.moraga.ca.us.

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Happy Holidays to all and a Healthy and Prosperous 2013! Civic News Public Meetings Maureen Maureen City Council Wilbur Tuesday, Jan. 15, 7 p.m. Auditorium, Orinda Library, 26 Orinda Way Direct: (925)253-6311 [email protected] www.MaureenWilbur.com

©2012 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Planning Commission CA DRE #01268536 Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office Is Owned And Operated by NRT LLC. DRE License # 01908304 Tuesday, Jan. 8, 7 p.m. Auditorium, Orinda Library, 26 Orinda Way The Changing of the Guard Finance Advisory Committee Wednesday, Jan. 23, 6 p.m. Steve Glazer reflects on the end of his term as mayor; Worth and Severson Community Room, City Hall, named mayor and vice mayor 22 Orinda Way By Laurie Snyder School Board Meeting Worth praised outgoing mayor Glazer Adding that he and his colleagues Orinda Union School District for his leadership before Dean Orr “made the hard choices to reduce our Monday, Jan. 14, 6 p.m. and his fellow council members took budget and staffing and live within OUSD Office turns reading from a joint resolution our means” this past year, Glazer also 25 Orinda Way, Suite 200 honoring Glazer. noted that this “was done while min- www.orindaschools.org Expressing his thanks to the com- imizing the impact on services to our See also AUHSD meeting page A2 munity, Glazer gave high marks to residents. We appreciate the work of city staff for the job they have done our staff these past few years to work Check online for agendas, meeting during challenging economic times. longer and harder with less pay.” notes and announcements Later, he reflected further for the Glazer also cited the opening of City of Orinda: Lamorinda Weekly on all that has new city-owned playfields at Wilder www.cityoforinda.org transpired during his year at the helm and the senior housing program Phone (925) 253-4200 of the Orinda City Council. groundbreaking likely to occur this Chamber of Commerce: “Thanks to the strong public sup- month as highlights in a year that also www.orindachamber.org port of Measure L, we are now imple- saw Orinda replacing the Manzanita The Orinda Association: menting phase one of the 10-year Drive Bridge and completing its Glo- www.orindaassociation.org Vice Mayor Amy Worth thanks Council Member Steve Glazer for his 2012 Road and Drain Improvement Plan. rietta and North Lane storm drain service as mayor while council members Smith and Dean Orr look on. This plan, adopted by the council this projects. Worth was unanimously named mayor of Orinda for the third time later year, creates four separate funding “In addition,” said Glazer, “our that same evening. Photo Ohlen Alexander stages for improving most of our pub- police department continues to pro- rinda’s Dec. 4 City Council the transfer of the gavel from one lic streets and storm drains,” said vide outstanding public safety serv- Omeeting was well attended and mayor to another. Glazer. “This is the first new contri- ices to our schools, businesses and Police Report fun for many in an audience that in- Following “For the Good of the bution of funds from our residents for community. Orinda is the fifth safest cluded longtime and new-to-town City” community service recogni- road and drain repair since our city’s city in California as ranked by the Warrant Arrest bumper crop, incorporation 27 years ago.” FBI and first for communities our 12/7/12, 12/11/12, 12/12/12 Orinda Orindans, leaders from Orinda’s busi- tions (see photo spread page A7) and The 10-year road and drain im- size. Our department has provided Police made three warrant arrests ness and non-profit communities, the review of basic city business mat- provement plan, he said, “will require life-saving help, attended school and within a week. Dec. 7, a 21-year- state and regional government offi- ters, Glazer and his colleague, Victo- old male pulled over for a traffic cials, and former Orinda mayors Bill ria Robinson Smith, were sworn in additional public funding stages in the neighborhood watch meetings, stop was found to be driving on a Judge and Bobbie Landers. All were for new four-year terms by City Clerk coming years”; therefore, “it will be caught and assisted in the prosecu- suspended license. He was arrested on hand to thank outgoing mayor Michele Olsen. Council members important for the city to “fairly and ef- tion of many bad people, conducted when it was discovered he also had Steve Glazer for his service, and wit- Amy Worth and Sue Severson were ficiently implement our road plan so emergency preparedness exercises an outstanding warrant. Police al- ness an annual ritual which takes elected later in the evening as mayor public confidence remains strong in and undertaken 86 home safety au- lowed a licensed driver to retrieve place in early December each year – and vice mayor, respectively. Then, the council’s leadership.” dits.” ... continued on page A11 the vehicle and the subject was re- leased after signing a promise to ap- pear in court. A 50-year-old male For the Good of the City was arrested Dec.11 on Rheem Mailbox Blvd. on an outstanding warrant. Recognition of Police Officer of the Year, New OPD Officers, Dec.12, Orinda Police arrested a Thievery in third subject, a 48-year-old female and Mayor’s Architectural Award Winners who was found to have an outstand- Orinda Photos Ohlen Alexander ing warrant. ail thieves are passing by un- locked mailboxes and instead Caught with his pants down, M 12/11/12 A 60-year-old male with are breaking into locked residential his pants down was found stagger- Orinda mailboxes, said Sergeant Neil ing along Camino Pablo. He was Rafanan of the Orinda Police Depart- carrying a large piece of wood, and ment. At least 12 boxes have been hit apparently, a chip on his shoulder, in the last four to six weeks. Police because he refused to drop the wood suspect the break-ins are taking place when ordered to do so by police. between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. Rafanan Eventually man and wood were sep- said the secluded nature of Orinda arated. What remained was his un- streets means mailboxes can be located steady gait, red, watery eyes, slurred some distance from the house itself, speech and eau de alcohol, to the which may leave the site unattended. tune of 0.298 blood alcohol content. A locked mailbox presents “a target- The subject was arrested for being rich environment,” he said, perhaps be- drunk in public, taken to Orinda Po- cause those residents may not retrieve lice department and later transported their mail for days at a time. To pre- to Martinez Detention Facility. vent becoming the next victim, Rafanan suggests residents collect their mail on the day it is delivered, and il- luminate both the front of their house and the area around their mailbox. Anyone with information about these crimes is urged to call Orinda The City of Orinda welcomes its newest police officers. From left: Chief Jennings; new Officers Ken Rosenbaum Police at (925) 254-6820 or the Sher- and Paul Schwind; Officer Maynard Patacsil; new Reserve Officer Bryan Walley; Officer Mike Gray; Sergeant Mo- iff’s office dispatch, (925) 646-2441. hammed Djajakusuma; new Officers Dustin Gregory and Lisa Cook (front). C.Dausman

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“AsAs heard on HG Radio”Radio E. [email protected] Build It GREEN Smart Solutions from the Ground Up ©2012 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office Is Owned And Operated by NRT LLC. DRE License # 01908304. For the Good of the City ... continued Mayor Glazer con- Karp and Ivry gratulates Cathy score again. and Derek Stein, Their latest owners of the restaurant, The- property recog- atre Square’s nized Dec. 4 with popular Barba- the 2012 Mayor’s coa, received Award for Architec- the 2012 ture – New Resi- Mayor’s Archi- dence. The new tectural Award home has also for Downtown been honored with Improvement a merit award from Projects. the American Soci- ety of Landscape Architects.

Spring Verity and her “Among Orinda’s many family were pre- blessings are its tireless sented with the 2012 garden club volunteers,” Mayor’s Award for said Orinda Planning Di- Architecture – Envi- rector Emmanuel Ursu in ronmental Sustain- announcing the Commu- ability Dec. 4. Their nity Beautification Award rear yard cottage to the Orinda Garden Club. restoration made Members undertook something old quite restoration of Lake Cas- new and exciting cade to honor the Garden again by combining Club of America’s 100th energy efficient fea- anniversary. Project coordi- tures with repur- nators Diana Kennedy and posed roof tiles, Joan Andrews were on wood doors, and hand to receive the award redwood siding. from Mayor Steve Glazer. The Real Estate Firm People Trust Coldwell Banker Orinda

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©2012 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office Is Owned And Operated by NRT LLC. DRE License #01908304. Page: A8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012 Community Service Hear Moraga Resident Takes Top Spot at Cheryl Strayed in Conversation American Heart Association’s Western with States Affiliate Board Submitted by Katherine Conrad Lynn Carey oraga resident Janice Mur- year to fight the No. 1 and No. 4 Mphy, vice president of finance killers of Americans, cardiovascular Appearing Sunday, January 6, 2013 at Kaiser Permanente, has been disease and stroke. As Chairman of named chairman of the board of di- the Affiliate Board, Murphy will help Acalanes Performing Arts Center 1200 Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette rectors for the American Heart Asso- steer the regional activities of the non- ciation Western States Affiliate profit organization. “The American Time...... 2:00 –4:00 PM General Seating...... $35 (WSA). The Affiliate serves the Heart Association is second only to Reserved Seating + Meet & Greet...... $75 states of Alaska, Arizona, California, the federal government in terms of Order tickets at www.LLLCF.org or Call (925) 283-6513 Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, funding heart disease and stroke re- Oregon, Utah and Washington. search; countless lives are saved “Thousands of lives are saved every every day because of this work,” said LAFAYETTE LIBRARY AND LEARNING CENTER FOUNDATION year because of the organization’s Murphy. “You would be hard pressed ©2012 LLLCF…Design: John Otto work on research, prevention and to meet someone who has not been awareness,” Murphy said. The Amer- affected by heart disease or stroke— Janice Murphy Photo provided ican Heart Association commits more either directly or through a loved than $500 million to research each one.” Help for the Holidays! For yourself or a loved one Kiwanis, Flowers and Chocolates Decorating yGift Wrapping Shopping yDriving yErrands Lamorinda Comforts of Home Local - Bonded - Insured 925-285-6272 www.lamorindacomfortsofhome.com

Family Dentistry (formerly the office of Dr. Steven Russell, www.butterflydds.com) Dr. Bryan Rikli and Dr. Riza Santos recently joined the Lam‐ Kiwanians plant bulbs along Moraga Road, from left: Kirpal Khanna, Supervisor Dale Walwark, Tom Westhoff, Karen orinda community and would love to meet you! Reed, Tim Freeman, Francis Wong, Rich Holden and his grandchildren, and Sam Sperry. Photo Sophie Braccini bout 50 happy Kiwanians were which is projected to sell more than All of the proceeds from the Have a cup of coffee on us! spotted on the streets of Moraga two tons of the candy this year. candy sales go back to the commu- New and existing patients A Dec. 8 with a mission to plant 1,000 “As of Dec. 7 we sold over 2,200 nity, benefiting organizations includ- who refer a new patient will daffodil bulbs along Moraga Road, pounds of See’s Candies in our ing the Moraga Education receive a Peet’s gift card! between St. Mary’s Road and Moraga Rheem Center shop,” said Kiwanian Foundation, Education Foundation of Schedule your exam today! Way. Approximately 17 members Tim Freeman. “With the usual flurry Orinda, Lafayette Partners in Educa- (925) 253‐0165. spent two and a half hours digging of activity as we approach Dec. 25 we tion, Hacienda Foundation, Contra holes and setting bulbs that Saturday should finish somewhere around last Costa Food Bank, AAUW Sister to We are located at 93 Moraga Way, Suite 201 Orinda, CA 94563 morning. This was all after manning year's total that exceeded 2.7 tons, Sister, Lindsay Wildlife Museum, and the Kiwanis’ chocolate store in the which was a substantial increase over Center for Early Intervention in Treat- Rheem Valley Shopping Center, the 1.7 tons of candy sold in 2010.” ing Deafness. S. Braccini Drainage Systems East Bay Eclipse Soccer Club Helps • Standing Water Problems Eliminated Kids Half a World Away • Sump Pump Service, Repairs & Replacement Submitted by Diane Sharp • Drainage Inspections & Reports • Retaining Walls • Grading

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Kids near Nairobi play with the “virtually indestructible” soccer ball. Photos provided hrough the month of Decem- the balls pop very easily,” said Blake class lines,” said Carney. “One ball Tber, the East Bay Eclipse Soc- Sharp, the 13-year-old campaign co- can serve as a reason for joy and pos- cer Club (EBESC) players and their ordinator. itivity for a large number of kids families will be raising money to help “Kids playing on the streets or in halfway around the world. As people donate the only soccer balls in the the fields of Africa typically make who are blessed to live where we do, world said to be virtually indestructi- balls out of anything they can - rolled this is something we can all easily do ble to several villages in Kenya. up paper, rolled up yarn and even an- to help bring joy.” “Although Lamorinda is a fantas- imal bladders,” added Carney. “An The One World Futbols will be tic place to live, it is very easy to get indestructible ball ensures that they distributed to the Hilde Back Educa- lost in the bubble and forget what else always have something to play with tion Fund based in Nairobi is happening out in the world,” said and can spend their time playing in- (www.hildebackeducationfund.com). Shane Carney, director of East Bay stead of having to piece together an- For more information about the proj- Eclipse. “This fundrasier will hope- other makeshift ball.” ect, visit www.oneworldfutbol.com/ fully serve as a reminder to everyone The One World Futbol can sur- campaigns/eclipse/. that there are kids around the world vive the harshest conditions, and from ours playing and loving the never needs a pump, never goes flat, same game of soccer who we can eas- even when punctured. Sharp has ily help. Something as simple as pro- played with the balls, and said they viding them with a ball can have a look and feel like a regular soccer ball huge positive impact on the lives of – same weight and dimensions. these children.” “They are super fun to play with in There are approximately 425 kids my room (though my mom doesn't in the Eclipse Soccer Club in Lamor- like that much) and outside,” she said. inda, and Carney is hoping they all get The Eclipse Soccer Club’s goal is involved in this first major, club-wide to donate 420 soccer balls by the end donation drive. of this holiday season to children in “The indestructible soccer ball Kenya. “The ultimate goal of the do- (One World Futbol) is important be- nation drive is to show that the game cause in places like Africa the fields of soccer is something that transcends East Bay Eclipse player gives the are often dirt, with glass or rock, so geographical, social, cultural and unique soccer ball a try. Wednesday, December 19, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A9 Volunteers Adorn Downtown One-of-a-kind Stockings Help Youth Homes Submitted by Susan Goldie Orinda Buildings with in November. Sewnow provided instructors, pre-cut stocking kits, Holiday Cheer felt appliqués, buttons, and heat Submitted by Janet Pease set crystals, as well as a custom monogram for each stocking cuff. Finished designs were entered into a design contest, and the commu- nity was invited to vote on Face- book and in the studio for their favorite design. After a flurry of voting and tallying over 100 votes, number 14 was declared the win- ner and the designer, Mary Bridget Gallagher, was presented with a $75 Sewnow gift card. The stock- Photo provided ings will be presented to the young ells were jingling and sewing the Sewnow studio to sew and em- adults who are part of Youth Bmachines were humming as bellish stockings for Youth Homes Homes Aftercare program at a 17 generous volunteers came into during two free sewing workshops Christmas party Dec. 19.

Sam Sernett Michael Kreutzelman and Max Kreutzelman from Boy Scout Troop 237 Photos provided

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When it comes to larger loans, your options can be limited. At Union Bank, we broaden your Event co-chairman Jane Wiser (top row) and bottom row, from left: volun- choices and offer our most competitive rates on larger home loans.1 teers John Cinderey, Ann Cinderey and event co-chairman Cathleen Sodos. Whether you’re buying or refinancing, we make our best options available to you: ndaunted by rainy weather and class treasurer, Grace Barosky, organ- Variety of Loan Programs—have more choices with an assortment of fixed- or fixed/ warmed with coffee, hot choco- ized the Miramonte students involved U adjustable-rate jumbo loan programs up to $5 million. late and doughnuts, approximately 30 in the fund raising project, and several volunteers, including Orinda Garden local Boy Scouts from Troop 237 led Zero Point Options—reduce your out-of-pocket expenses at closing, and still get a great Club members and their husbands and by Scout Jack O'Melveny, and mem- rate on your mortgage. Boy Scouts from Troop 237 and their bers of their families hung the 100 Interest-Only Payment Option—make lower monthly payments and maximize your families, gathered in the Bank of wreaths on downtown buildings. potential tax deduction. (Consult a professional tax advisor.) 2 America parking lot Dec. 1 before set- "This event warms the hearts of Portfolio Lender—receive specialized underwriting on the most complex mortgages and ting out to hang 100 brightly colored many, especially since it brings to- consideration of loan amounts above $5 million, case by case. Christmas wreaths all over downtown gether several volunteer groups," said Orinda as part of the second annual Carole Wolfman, garden club presi- Get personalized service and great rates with a Jumbo Loan. "Wreaths Around Orinda" project. dent. The Orinda Garden Club, along The evergreen wreaths, purchased by with other local garden clubs, provide Karen Weil VP, Mortgage Consultant the Orinda Garden Club from Boy volunteer workers and resources for 925-362-7107 Scout Troop 237 and Miramonte's many of the city's beautification ef- [email protected] senior class, were decorated by mem- forts. Orinda residents Cathleen unionbank.com/kweil bers and friends of the Orinda Garden Sodos and Jane Wiser co-chaired the NMLS ID #765233 Club at a holiday workshop. Senior event. 1 Loans subject to credit and collateral approval. Financing available for collateral located in CA, OR, or WA. Restrictions may apply. Terms and conditions subject to change. 2 With an interest-only mortgage payment, you will not pay down the loan’s principal balance during the interest-only New Eagle Scout period. Once the interest-only period ends, your payments will increase to pay back the principal and interest. Rates are subject to increase over the life of the loan. Contact your mortgage consultant to determine what your payments Submitted by Ron Graydon might be once the interest-only period ends. ©2012 Union Bank, N.A.

THEHOLIDAYSALLSQUAREDAWAYTHEHOLIDAYSALL SQUARED AWAY ANAHIDANA A DESIGNS FFLFLOWERSLOO AAMAMFAMFF ART GALLERY BBABARBACOAAAR BBONFIREON PIZZERIA EENENTOURAGENNT SPA & SALONSA Photo provided KASPER’SKAAS HOT ongratulations to Jackson Hu, student, who recently earned his DOGDDOOOG COMPANY Can Orinda Academy straight-A Eagle Scout award. LAVALAVA PIT HAWAIIANHHAAAW GRILL Delivering Good Cheer LIVINGLLIIVI LEAN Submitted by Rosylyn Stenzel ORINDAORI THEATRE ORINDAORI TRAVEL SUBWAYSSUUB SWEETSWWE DREAMS TOY STORE TABLETAAB 24 VISUALVISU ENTRÉE OPTOMETRYOPT PETRÁPETR CAFÉ REPUBLICRREEEPU OF CAKE SERIKASEERI SHELBY’SSHE STARBUCKSSSTTA COFFEE

SANTA HOLIDAY AT ORINDA THEATRE SQUARE IT’S ALL GOOD. PHOTOS Casual, yet upscale dining with a menu for every taste. An eclectic blend of boutiques and health & From left: Helen Clifford, Betsey Young, Ruth Purcell, Frances Perry, and FRIDAY 2PM-7PM beauty services. And all the latest movie releases at an Barbara Riggio. Not pictured, Turi Riksheim. Photo Rosylyn Stenzel SATURDAY 10AM-7PM iconic Bay Area theater. With so many new and exciting embers of the Suburban in Lafayette. Though the club has SUNDAY 11AM-6PM restaurants and shops, there are so many reasons to DINING & SHOPPING think inside The Square! MWomen’s Club of Lafayette folded, the ladies continue to be phil- DISCOUNTS WITH PHOTO PURCHASE are continuing an over 15-year tradi- anthropic. The tray favors are filled FREE GARAGE PARKING WHEN YOU SHOP OR DINE tion of making and delivering Christ- with candies and delivered just in mas favors to skilled nursing facilities time for the holidays. CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR HOLIDAY SPECIAL OFFERS & UPCOMING EVENTS orindatheatresquare.com Page: A10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Share your thoughts with our community! Opinions in Letters to the Editor are the express views of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. All published letters will 925-283-8027 include the writer's name and city/town of residence -- we will only accept letters from those who live in, or own a business in, the communities comprising Lamorinda (please give us your phone number for verification purposes only). Letters should be 350 words or less; letters of up to 500 words will be accepted on a space-available basis. email: [email protected]; Regular mail: Lamorinda Weekly, P.O.Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570 Editor: a new show each month. I make it a point to go there on a Thank you so much for Laurie Sny- monthly basis to see the art and with- der's article highlighting the Orinda out doubt, purchase several -many Library. books from the Friends of the Library In my enthusiasm I overstated the li- book store as well as just hanging out brary's hours of operation - we are ac- for awhile in our lovely library. tually open 60 hours/week, not 65. I also noticed in the section on I also meant to say the library is an "What's happening at the Orinda Li- ideal third place (from the concept of brary" there is no mention of the community building in social spaces Orinda Library Art Gallery. separate from home and workplace). I'm proud to have the gallery on my Much gratitude to the City of Orinda guest tour, which recently included for funding the library's evening and guest from Norway, France, Los An- weekend hours. Due to these dedi- geles as well as many from the bay cated funds the Orinda Library is area. open every single day of the week, in- Take Care of Yourself cluding Sundays and until 8 pm Mon- Jimmie Beardsley day-Thursday. We are a great Orinda SO YOU CAN CARE FOR OTHERS. destination thanks to the generosity of the residents of Orinda and City gov- Editor: ernment support. You have probably received many let- Thank you, ters regarding Mr. Colman's assump- Beth Girshman, Orinda Library tions regarding tax deductions. Using his hypothetical example, the $41,000 Editor: would not be owed as taxes, but taxed at the individual's tax rate. If the in- I was just reading the article by Laurie dividual's tax rate were 15%, then the Snyder regarding the Orinda Library taxes owed would be $6150, not ; a very nice article . However, I feel $41,000. she was remiss by the omission of the Also, only the Ad Valorem portion of art gallery as an important part of the a property tax bill is deductible. The Library. other items for special taxes and as- A great deal of time, effort and work sessments are not tax deductible. Why Respite Care Matters goes into the choices made by The Orinda Art Council and presentation Elaine Samson Every caregiver needs time off, especially during the busy of the many artists providing us with Lafayette holiday season. That’s why we offer short-term respite care. Join our Public Forum It allows family members to recharge while their loved ones If you have significant knowledge about an issue facing Lamorinda or one of its cities that requires enjoy excellent care from dedicated professionals in an more than the 350 words to which we must limit Letters to the Editor, don’t despair! You can submit your letter to our Public Forum section. Just send your letter to [email protected] engaging, positive environment. and let us know you’d like to be considered for the Public Forum.

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 Contractor C.C. Myers, known City’s General Fund reserve, which for its experience in completing infra- has about $6 million.” structure jobs quickly, is slated to fin- Just last week, crews were re- ish the work before Christmas Day. routing power lines and working to How much is all this going to cost? get utilities out of the way to accom- There’s a time and materials contract modate the massive equipment nec- with a cap of $600,000, barring un- essary to bring in the 10-foot diameter foreseen circumstances. Any surprise pipe sections, that weigh 42,000 work will be renegotiated to the mu- pounds each, and installing a tempo- tual satisfaction of both parties. rary upstream diversion dam to re- While the City of Lafayette has a route the creek. sizable fund for emergencies, accord- A big part of the problem was the ing to City Manager Steven Falk, “It’s amount of debris, according to Lut- not clear, yet, where the funding will tropp, that caused “unintended conse- come from.” He explained, “The quences.” Branches, leaves and more City, last Friday, submitted a request get washed down the creek and get to the State for relief from the Califor- hung up causing these blockages. He nia Disaster Assistance program; suggests homeowner’s creek frontage we’ve not heard any response from property is not a recycling bin. Got creek debris? Clean it up. The City sends periodic reminders to creek-front property owners re- Why Home Care Assistance Is The Leading minding them of creek maintenance. The most recent letter, dated June 5, 2012, states, “Residents are responsible for inspecting and maintaining Provider of 24/7 Live-In Care: their portion of the drainage channel/creek, to ensure it remains free of We offer experienced, bonded and insured caregivers, who are trained in our Balanced all debris such as grass clippings, tree limbs, leaves and waste vegetation, Care MethodTM of promoting healthy aging. trash, and other objects that could obstruct the full flow of water.” The let- ter goes on to caution homeowners about storing firewood or having a We arrange culinary training for our caregivers at Sur La Table to improve their skills compost pile on the creek bank. Unfortunately, while the property and ultimately, our clients’ meals. owner gets the reminder, Luttropp speculates that the information does- n’t necessarily trickle down to tenants who may be renting. Our founders wrote the book Handbook for Live-In Care, which serves as a resource for the industry as well as families.

We also provide care away from home, including around-the-clock care during hospital and rehab facility stays.

!"# $!%! ! &! "#$%&'()*') P040036 02/04 State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company (Not in NJ), Bloomington, IL Wednesday, December 19, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A11 Evans Brings FAIR New MOFD Board Hits the Ground Running Perspective to MOFD Board Approves sending Station 43 project out to bid By Nick Marnell By Nick Marnell lex Evans and Steve Anderson pressing the need to start the formal going to have to do something else,” rawing attention to a massive MOFD is equal to the budget of the Awere sworn in last week as the bidding process. Anderson wanted to said Weil who then called for a vote. Dbinder filled with Moraga City of Orinda." two newest members of the Moraga know if the board could even author- On a 3-2 vote the board agreed to Orinda Fire District charts, data and Evans made it clear that he joined Orinda Fire District Board of Direc- ize the work before they read the fi- request bids, with Anderson and reports, Alex Evans said, “I’ve done the MOFD board because he wants tors. Since they ran unopposed, Evans nalized financials. What if they Evans dissenting. (data analysis) all of my life. But I do the entity to thrive, to continue to be and Anderson were appointed in lieu discovered that they couldn’t afford The board broke for a closed ses- not understand what is in there.” supported by the public, and to of election. Anderson represents Dis- it? Evans agreed. Other members sion on labor negotiations. “No action Evans, one of two newly ap- emerge financially sound. “I want the trict 3, which includes sections of wanted to secure the bids and see how was taken,” said Weil. “It was simply pointed members of the MOFD MOFD to be sustainable, and to exist Orinda, Canyon and Moraga. Evans things fell into place. an update on the status of negotiations Board of Directors, has been involved into perpetuity,” he said. is from District 5 in Orinda. Board Steve Meyers, MOFD attorney, for the new board members.” Vince with the public for most of his adult Nothing appears to be off the president Fred Weil, who also ran un- cautioned that responding to bid re- Wells, president of Local 1230, life. His MBA from the University of table, though. Evans indicated that if challenged, was sworn in as well. quests is a time consuming process added, “We’re scheduled to get back Michigan is in Public Policy. He it is confirmed that the firefighting After a brief celebration with and companies expect that the request to negotiations in February.” founded EMC Research in 1989, a costs borne by Orinda are too high family and friends the new board is made in good faith. “It’s not to be a The next regular meeting of the company specializing in market and relative to other agencies, if Orinda is started working through a very long fishing expedition,” he said. board was rescheduled from Jan. 2 to opinion research, and has served in paying more than it should for its fire agenda that included, among other Bradley was in favor of putting out Jan. 9, 2013. the past as a member of the Rich- service, and if it’s shown that Orinda things, incident reports, the 2011-12 the bids. “We need this structure to be mond City Council and Orinda’s Cit- could provide its own service more financial audit and Station 43. safe for our employees,” he said. “It izens for Infrastructure Oversight cheaply, the dissolution of the MOFD “This was my most challenging must be redone, and brought to earth- Committee. Evans was also a found- could happen. “But that is not my day as fire chief,” stated a visibly quake standards. It’s one of the costs of ing member of FAIR (Fire And Infra- goal,” he said. shaken Randall Bradley, referring to doing business for a fire department.” structure Renewal), a group of Orinda He believes the most immediate Dec. 2 when a multi-vehicle accident Board member John Wyro said citizens who believe that MOFD is pressing issue facing MOFD is the on Highway 24 resulted in serious in- that due to all of the construction now Moraga Orinda Fire District not being equitably funded by both labor situation. “The labor contract is juries to three of his firefighters. going on in Walnut Creek costs are Board of Directors Meetings Orinda and Moraga, and wonder if ef- our number one priority,” he ex- Bradley told the board that all proce- only going to go up because of de- ficiencies can be found that might plained. Meetings of the MOFD Board of Directors dures were properly followed during mand, which would result in this proj- are open to the public and take place on somehow free up Orinda property tax Evans is a complex man, dealing the incident, but he also vowed that he ect becoming even more expensive if the third Wednesday of each month. dollars to fix roads and infrastructure. with complex issues. He appears was going to look again at everything, delayed. Board member Frank Sper- Please note new meeting location: Orinda Community Center, “It is unacceptable that some of ready to take on all the challenges, all of the policies and procedures, to ling countered that all of that new Founders Auditorium, 28 Orinda Way the people in Orinda think that they and ready to challenge all assump- be sure that something like this does construction should mean more rev- Next meeting: are overpaying for their services,” tions. Having spent his career churn- not happen again. The firefighters will enue down the road, so they could af- Evans stated. When asked if he is one ing data, it will be interesting to see return to work. “Two of them, it may ford to wait. Regular Board Meeting Jan. 9, 2013, 7 p.m. of those people, he responded, “Fire what recommendations he comes up take a while. But they’ll be back,” Finally, Weil stated that the re- service is typically 15 percent of a with after he parses all of the data that said Bradley. quest for bids was a top priority and (go to www.mofd.org as the meeting municipality’s budget. The amount of is in that binder. “It’s going to take A representative of the Cropper they ought to approve the request. “If date approaches for more information) Orinda property taxes allocated to time,” he said. Accountancy Corporation gave a the number doesn’t come in, we’re presentation on the audit of the dis- Anderson Focuses on trict’s 2011-2012 financials. Evans and Anderson appeared frustrated by the findings, specifically, that the true MOFD Finances liabilities of the pension and other

By Nick Marnell post-employment benefit obligations The creatively teve Anderson, newly sworn in presentation that was made to the were not stated. The auditor explained as a member of the Moraga Orinda City Council by a citizens’ that government standards do not re- S quire that and quickly wrapped things think Orinda Fire District Board of Direc- group claiming that if MOFD funds Saklan compassionately tors, is not one to mince words. “De- were properly assessed and allocated up by calling it a “clean audit.” tails! You have to know and there might be money that could be A debate about seeking bids for understand what is going on. You used to fix Orinda roads. This idea the construction of a new and im- need to learn exactly how a business made him curious about MOFD and proved Station 43 turned out to be the School operates.” motivated him to throw his hat in the most interesting feature of the act Anderson was born in Florida ring. Like many in Orinda, “I want evening. In 2011 the board determined Pre-K Through 8 and is a Florida Gator through and to fix our roads,” he stated vehe- that Station 43 needs to be replaced through. He earned both his bache- mently. because it does not meet seismic stan- Open House Dates dards, modern fire equipment does not lor’s degree and his MBA in “I intend to find out exactly how Est. fit in the apparatus bays, and the living Kindergarten - 5 10/5 & 12/7 Gainesville. He began his career in this entity operates,” Anderson con- Middle School 11/2 & 1/11 1954 Texas, at EDS, working for Ross tinued. “I want to know how the first area does not adequately accommo- date mixed gender staffing. www.saklan.org live Perot. His wife, whom he met while dollar is spent. I will insist on an ex- courageously he was in the service, is from Califor- planation for every expenditure in the Weil opened the discussion by ex- nia and 30 years ago they moved to financial plan.” He also intends to Orinda. Anderson has formed and demand an explanation for every as- sold tech companies over the years, sumption used in formulating that fi- and continues to act as a consultant nancial plan. Including the actual for four of them. “I’m their adult amount of pension liability, which he presence,” he said. said has been puzzlingly unavailable “My first interaction with the from Contra Costa County Employ- Is this too young MOFD was a positive one,” Ander- ees’ Retirement Association. “‘I son recalled. He needed insurance don’t know’ is not an acceptable an- work done for one of the properties swer,” he said. to go to Cal? he owned, and he was happy with the Anderson represents MOFD Dis- knowledge and professionalism of trict Three, the seat vacated by Dick the department. Olsen who resigned in February. Why did he decide to seek a seat Stepping down is not on his agenda. on the board? “I want my tax dollars “I was a Ranger in the service, Nick. managed frugally,” Anderson We’re the first ones in. And we finish replied. He remembers watching a the job.” Civic News Orinda The Changing of the Guard ... continued from page A6 What pleases him most, though, downtown property owners to im- is that “the conduct of city affairs prove their buildings. More residen- was undertaken in an open and trans- tial housing in our central core can parent fashion with civility to all.” be a positive if done in the right way. Actually, it’s just the right age to get an eye exam at the University of The past year, Glazer said, has Any proposed project will undergo been exhilarating and productive in intense public scrutiny and will only California Eye Center. And again at three years. And regularly after other ways as well. “We saw our be approved if there is a broad con- that. (We developed ways to test kids’ eyes while they play!) We’re youngest child off to college. I have sensus that it meets our standards faced difficult decisions in ensuring and values.” part of the UC School of Optometry, and offer you LASIK surgery, an affordable and accessible higher Glazer’s life in the political arena contact lenses, and an Eyewear Center with a vast collection of education [for California’s children] will continue via his service on the as a Trustee of the California State CSU Board of Trustees. He will also designer frames, too. We take most insurance plans, and major Universities. I have enjoyed working “work with Governor Brown on credit cards. It’s time for your whole family to go Cal! with Governor Brown to stabilize ways to stimulate economic devel- state funding for schools and public opment and job creation,” as well as safety through the passage of Propo- “with community groups to protect sition 30.” And his campaign for re- and improve our environment in election to the city council was also Orinda and throughout the Bay successful. Area.” When asked what Orinda will In closing Glazer said, “Our look like five years from now – par- council’s collegiality has made this ticularly in light of the community’s year’s accomplishments all the bet- current divisiveness over downtown ter. I am lucky to have such a won- development— he said he doesn’t derful group of council members in Open to the Public 7 Days a Week • www.caleyecare.com “expect the downtown to change sig- which to work on city matters. I am 510.642.2020 • Free Parking with Appointments nificantly in the years ahead. The grateful for the opportunity to serve city would benefit from efforts by as mayor of this city I love so much.” Page: A12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012

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UPHOLSTERY SPECIALIST REFINISHING AND RESTORATION • Slipcovers • Pillows • Window Cushions Great Egret Photos Steve Hobbs • Custom Upholstery • Design Consulting Eventually he brought his camera to and wildlife photography, and street like to take individuals or groups in- Marine - Commercial - Residential the lower trail, which offered a com- photography (of people in action) terested in nature photography on Pickup & Delivery Available • Free Estimates By Phone pletely different experience – one draws him in and results in what he tours, and he has selected some of his which was less solitary, more lively calls "lifescapes." With the best light favorite photographs of the birds and and energized – an ideal locale for his in the early morning or late afternoon the landscapes of the reservoir to cre- Mon.-Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-2 Family Owned And Operated For Over 55 yrs. style of photography. There he has and evening hours, Hobbs gets out as ate two different 2013 calendars – one 3418 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette (925) 962-0579 observed and photographed dogs of often as he can. His familiarity with featuring birds, the other focusing on all sizes and species, children in the habits of the birds allows him landscapes. The calendars are avail- strollers, people of all ages and cul- often to be poised to be in the right able at Diablo Foods, Orchard Nurs- tures, fishermen and boaters, hikers place at the right time to capture the ery, Diablo Print, Elmwood and joggers, picnickers and painters, magic. He notes that the skills honed Stationers, and the Lafayette Cham- and captured what’s become an an- in his photographic outings – careful ber of Commerce. “Let Us Light Up Your Life” nual tradition: a plum tree donned observation, curiosity, and patience – He is currently at work on a Residential  Commercial  Industrial with sparkly ornaments placed by translate well to his day job as a psy- Lafayette Reservoir photography walkers and joggers on the eastern chologist. book. To see his reservoir images Serving Contra Costa since 1991 More than 35 years experience side of the almost three-mile paved Clearly passionate about all of the (and other work from further afield) path, beyond the children’s play area. aspects of the Lafayette Reservoir, visit his website: stevehobbsphotog- All Work Done by Owner As for wildlife, Hobbs has now Hobbs wants to share this amazing raphy.smugmug.com. Bonded & Insured Lic.#C10-631523 photographed over 60 species of place with the community. He would Professional Installation of: birds. "Every bird has its own story  Ceiling Fans, Recessed & Track Lighting  Kitchen or Bath Remodel and personality," says Hobbs, from  Exterior/Security/Landscape Lighting  Electrical Service Upgrade the solitary and cranky Great Blue  Complete Home Wiring - Old & New  Spa Installation Heron to the extroverted, playful, and team-oriented American White Peli- can, two of his personal favorites.

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Peg Hoffman's Snow Village. Eloise in Paris themed pink bedroom, has a table set with tiny Starbuck’s where a portrait of Jackie O. hangs coffee mugs and a jar of cookies. over the bed. Boxes of miniature Twinkies adorn The kitchen, with its subway the counter. tile flooring and white cabinetry, ... continued on page B4 Dana Windatt and her beloved dollhouse. Photos Cathy Dausman

hen it comes to Christmas this year to accommodate her party she says. Wcollections, Lamorindans, as schedule. Dana Windatt bought her white THE ALL-NEW BMW the song suggests, do have a few of The family Christmas tree must three-story Victorian dollhouse with their favorite things. first be lighted and decorated before her own money as a child. “This is 6 SERIES Erla Boren of Moraga says her the village takes shape at its base. my scrapbook,” she says, explaining GRAN COUPE Eskimo collection has “outgrown the Snow Village City boasts lighted that decorating it has brought her back BMW Concord mirrors” on which they rest. The shops, a mill, a church, a dry goods to her youth. Originally Windatt only Michael Heller, BMW Concord, [email protected] round and smiling ornament charac- store, a windmill, plenty of cars and draped the outside with lights for ters are a happy reminder of her na- foot traffic and an abundance of Christmas, but has since completely tive Iceland. There are now decades miniature Christmas trees – all decorated the interior. The dollhouse of the “Frosty Friends” series, which lighted, of course. Rudolph with his has nine rooms, including the two- Hallmark began in 1980. nose so bright prances atop one city story hallway, and attic. Having only Boren’s tables show Eskimos on roof. Skiers share the outdoors with sons, ages 10 to 18, Windatt sought icebergs and riding Polar bears. She fox and deer near a countryside log decorating help from friends’ daugh- has mostly kept up with the annual cabin. A man carves pond ice next to ters. new ornament release, but doesn’t Maple Creek covered bridge, and The Moraga resident wallpapered have the 1983 and 1984 issues. The children build a snowman. everything, and then decorated a Call Michael Heller ornaments she bought long ago, pay- Hoffman says the village design ‘girly girl’ bathroom, complete with 925-998-2150 ing $2.50 each, today fetch $200 on is different every year. It seems the pearl-bubbles in the tub. There’s an BMW Concord | 1967 Market ST. | Concord eBay, Boren says with a smile. She only thing missing is an HO scale keeps her Eskimo collection now for train. While Hoffman would love to the enjoyment of her grandchildren, include that, she may be too busy who don’t seem to notice the lack of shooing her cats away from the dio- snow in Lamorinda. rama. They tend to use the roads as As for Peg Hoffman and her their own thoroughfare anyway, ex- room-sized Snow Village display in amining the village like giants from Moraga, she says, “People should another world. never start these things.” Its assembly Hoffman intentionally left out the normally requires four days, although operating ice skating rink this year, Hoffman managed a two-day rush job too. “It makes the cats go bonkers,” *

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1129 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek Mon - Fri 9 – 9:30, Sat. 9 - 9, Sun. 9:30 – 8 (925) 947-1991  1(800) 833-2182 Full Service Bridal Registry and Internet access www.davidmbrian.com Page: B2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012 Apocalypse Now? You Decide! By Cathy Dausman veryone remembers the dire a speeding ticket or two. Epredictions of Y2K. Or Oakland If travel to far-off places strikes Christian radio broadcaster Harold your fancy, there are many aptly Camping who first predicted the named destinations. You can even world would end in 1994, then save time and go straight to Hell – in changed his calculation – twice. Texas, Michigan, Norway or the Cay- Would it be May or Oct. 21, 2011? If man Islands. Travel writer Nancy D. you haven’t yet completed your holi- Brown says if the world ends on Dec. day shopping, this may be the perfect 21 “we’d [first] visit Norway, eat excuse not to. gelato in Italy, float the Rhine River Those with dystopian tendencies in Germany and hike the Alps of predict Friday, Dec. 21 is the end of Switzerland.” And, she adds: “You the world. Again. While it definitely can bet I’d quit worrying about fund- signals the end of a cycle in the ing the kid’s college education!” Mesoamerican Long Count calendar, New Lafayette author Robert more commonly known as the Mayan Anke pondered what he would do calendar, we’ll leave it up to you to with his last 48 hours: “Probably decide whether another page takes its nothing too exciting. But I’d hug my place. wife a little tighter, and I sure as heck Now, what to do with those last wouldn’t be too busy to play with my precious 48 hours? son.” Asked about her End of Time Care to curl up with a good book bucket list, one Campolindo High and fritter away your final 48? School recreational swimmer volun- Lafayette Library and Learning teered she’d want to have an affair Center’s Vickie Sciacca suggests with Denzel Washington; another Gabriel Marquez’s One Hundred vowed to eat an entire Susie Cakes Years of Solitude, Phillip Dick’s Do cake on her own. They wish to remain Androids Dream of Electric Sheep, fines, too! saw Lafayette Town Center’s live the- Or visit the more comforting, down- anonymous unless the world really Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Seasoned travelers must carry a ater production of It’s a Wonderful right optimistic National Aeronautics does end Friday. Time or the classic Tarzan by Edgar good music playlist. There’s still time Life before it closed Sunday. and Space Administration website Some take a more laid-back ap- Rice Burroughs. to update your iPod songs, so be sure Like to see what all the fuss is (www.nasa.gov/topics/earth/fea- proach to unnerving doomsday pre- “I'll definitely be reading Officer to include Party at the End of the about? LLLC’s Orlando Guzman has tures/2012.html) which answers dictions. “I completely forgot about Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rath- World by Jimmy Buffett, The End by a Mayan calendar on display along questions such as if the Mayan calen- the pending end of the world, but it mann,” writes LLLC’s Ann Miller. the Doors, or the Blue Oyster Cult with pre-Columbian ceramic replicas. dar actually ends, and what was the doesn’t really matter to me because “If I'm still around after the 21st,” classic Don’t Fear the Reaper. If you For more information about the origin of this doomsday prediction. I’ve always planned on working until Miller continues, “I'll read Suzanne intend to nest in place, rent a couple doomsday prediction and the result- It’s been said we should all “party the end of time anyway,” says Mor- Collin's The Hunger Games and get good movies—say2012, or Seeking a ing hysteria, visit www.decem- like there’s no to-Maya.” In fact, if aga Chief of Police Robert Priebe. in a little bow and arrow practice.” Friend for the End of the World— and ber212012.com. The website features you are planning an end of the world Perhaps we could ask him to dismiss Let’s hear it for suspended library avoid late fees forever. Sure hope you articles about Americans stockpiling extravaganza, you can find multiple guns and machetes for doomsday, or “No To-Maya” party supplies online. purchasing one-way airline tickets to But wait … No one’s going shop- Bugarach or to the South of France. ping?! now! New Holiday Camps Books to Read (if you have time): The Stand by Stephen King fashion studio & January Classes! How to Survive 2012 in Two Weeks by Robert Y Haddad and Jacob I Abujaber Still a few spaces left... End World by David Peters The Survivors: Book One by Angela White Holiday Camps Swan Songs: Beginners: Full Day & Half Day sewnow! 101 for absolute beginners. As Time Goes By (Casablanca theme) Intermediate/Advanced: Quilting Camp, New Year’s Eve Glam Camp. Party at the End of the World (Jimmy Buffett) The End (Doors) January Classes: Adults, Kids, Teens Doomsday Clock (Smashing Pumpkins) Exciting New Classes: End of the World (Herman’s Hermits) - Juniors - Sweet Dreams for my doll - make a complete dolls bed! Don’t Fear the Reaper (Blue Oyster Cult) - Kids & Teens - Intermediate Rainwear It’s the End of the World as We Know it (R.E.M.) - Adults - Introduction to Machine Embroidery And as always, we offer our Core Fashion Design Give a Movies to Watch the World go by: and Sewing Curriculum. gift of fun 2012 2012 Ice Age learning! Open Studio Time - Fashion & Sewing Classes - Workshops - Birthday Parties - Girl Scouts 2012 Supernova sewnow! 3534 Golden Gate Way, Lafayette (925) 283-7396 www.sewnow.com Seeking a Friend for the End of the World Earth’s Final Hours Nostradamos 2012 (TV documentary) Apocalypto Vampire Apocalypse Apocalypse Now Resident Evil: Apocalypse Zombie Apocalypse Quantum Apocalypse Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End Places to Visit: Iceland Tierra del Fuego Hell (choose from Texas, Michigan, Norway, or Cayman Islands) Hell’s Kitchen Death Valley Devil’s Jump Ghost Town Nowhere Else (Tasmania) Zap

Youngsters Spread Good Cheer in Moraga Submitted by Jeffrey Whitehead

Photo provided re-kindgarteners and junior Rheem Valley Convalescent Hos- Pkindergarteners, ages 4-5, pital Dec. 13 as part of a program from The Child Day Schools, to bring good cheer and spread Moraga, sang carols and gave the warm spirit of the winter hol- bells as gifts to residents at the idays. Wednesday, December 19, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B3 Enjoy Your Own Olive Oil By Sophie Braccini

May the peace & magic of the

Graham Parkinson-Morgan with his first harvest. Photos Jude Parkinson-Morgan season abide he color is emerald green, the is a minimum of $25 and covers the with you Tfragrance intense, and the first 100 pounds. Then, at the end of now and fruity, peppery taste unique. Cold the day, you get your oil back; for us, DAVID PIERCE | BROKER-REALTOR press, extra-virgin olive oil made one and a half gallons.” 925 | 639 | 0414 throughout the from local fruit is nothing like you Curiel’s olive oil is nothing like WWW.DAVIDPIERCE.NET Prudential coming year. have ever tasted before, unless you any commercial oil: the pungency is California Realty had your own olive farm. Yet anyone unadulterated, making it a great com- in Lamorinda with a healthy olive tree panion to salads, appetizers or a sim- can get their own freshly-pressed ple piece of bread. The savor of the olive oil simply by bringing their har- fruit reveals itself as the oil coats the vest to a local mill. That is, if they har- palate, a tinge of bitterness is also vest before heavy rains ruin the crop. present, but it quickly subsides leav- “I had always thought of all the ing only the long-lasting fresh green olives on trees around town going to flavor of the olive. waste and what a loss that was,” says “We have used it mostly for dip- Lafayette resident and natural food ex- ping so far,” says Parkinson-Morgan. pert Kim Curiel, “but the question was Curiel also uses it in salads and gives how to turn them into olive oil. The it as gifts in cute bottles. process is a little more involved than “The popularity of the commu- making sauce from your own apples; nity day in Livermore is growing,” you need an olive milling facility.” says Curiel, “but it’s only one day a Curiel heard about a yearly com- year, and there is such a potential with munity day at Olivina in Livermore all the olive trees in the area.” Curiel and she decided to go with some in- found another community resource, terested friends. “We came back with Andy Dale of the Dale Family Farm three gallons of premium olive oil in Berkeley, who has a small press from the 200 pounds of olives we where people can book time when- gleaned from trees that would never ever they want and press their olives. have been harvested,” said Curiel, Curiel was one of Dale’s first cus- who does not have olive trees on her tomers with a different batch of olives Care. Comfort. Compassion. own land. and she introduced Dale to Lafayette When you need it most. Jude and Graham Parkinson- resident Steve Richard, who was Morgan went with Curiel, bringing planning to harvest his olives Dec. 10. Your Lamorinda Senior Checklist … Find cook for better nutrition olives from their own and others’ Unfortunately, the heavy rains of the Get driver to appointments, groceries trees, and came back with one and a previous week sent all the olives to Get help with laundry & changing sheets half gallons of oil. the ground. Find somebody for companionship, exercise, puzzles “Eighteen months ago we planted Parkinson-Morgan plans to start a Spanish arbequina olive tree that an informal database of people who CALL SENIOR HELPERS We can assist with these activities and more. doubled in size, and we picked 28 have olive trees in the area to get or- pounds of olives from it this year,” ganized for next year. If you would Call for a free assessment 925-376-8000 Bonded and insured. says Jude Parkinson-Morgan. “The like to join, contact Parkinson-Mor- Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated. ©2011 SH Franchising, LLC whole olive oil idea came from a visit gan at j.parkinson-morgan@com- to my sister’s olive estate in Lucca, cast.net. For more information about Italy. We came back determined to the Dale Family Farm, visit plant olive trees in Lafayette.” www.dalefamilyfarm.com. Samira With the help of Siamack Says Sioshansi and the Urban Farmers, Don’t Rush the Parkinson-Morgan identified a Burton Valley property that had trees in need of picking. “It took us three and a half Recovery Process! hours to pick our trees and hers and we I am often asked “How long do I need to stay at got a total of 109 pounds of olives on Samira Davi is a Nurse Liaison for Nov. 10,” she says. She remembers ManorCare Health Services in Walnut ManorCare?” Or I hear statements like “I want to stay for a few the date because the olives had to be Creek. Samira has over 10 years of days and go home” or “My family will help me to get around at experience working in health care in picked the day before the milling and Contra Costa County, which has gained home; I do not need to go to a post-acute rehabilitation center Olivina’s community day was Nov. 11. her a wide view of what is important to because I can do my recovery on an out-patient basis.” The Lamorinda residents car- the health care consumer. She will be posting common questions and My response to these questions and comments is: pooled on that Monday morning to comments in each issue of the Lamorinda Rehabilitation is the process of helping an individual to achieve get their harvest to Livermore. A very Weekly. You are welcome to contact Samira directly at 925.270.8766 the highest level of independence and quality of life possible-- long line of cars started forming at physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Rehabilitation Olivina even before the door opened. helps to restore a patient to optimal health, functioning, and well-being. Rehabilitate (from the “They weighed our harvest,” ex- Pouring olive oil in glass bottles for Latin "habilitas") means "to make able again." Recovering from orthopedic, cardiac, or plained Parkinson-Morgan. “The cost conservation. neurologic conditions, surgical procedures, or illness or injury, can mean a long journey of inpatient rehabilitation to re-learn how to function independently. At ManorCare, patients receive rehabilitation services as well as the education they need for their care prior to returning home. We understand that each patient is unique and we tailor our services to meet specific needs. Our interdisciplinary team of providers coordinates care among all services to help each patient reach his or her discharge goals, and to” graduate” and go home safely and happily. At ManorCare, patients receive five days of therapy in a skilled facility, compared to two or three days as an outpatient or home health patient. An inpatient stay provides daily care from the nursing staff and close monitoring of a patient’s condition –important in such areas as -insulin management, pain management, wound care, and administration of intravenous medications and fluids. Rushing the recovery process before a patient’s goals have been reached may lead to: · Re-injury- and a return trip to the hospital Charles Crohare Jr., son of Charles Crohare Sr., who has been running the Livermore ranch since the 1950s shows the process of milling. · Inadequate and/or improper care at home · A quality of care at home that may not be intense enough for a complete recovery and healing Please call me to schedule a tour at our two locations-ManorCare Rossmor Parkway and ManorCare Tice Valley. For more information please visit www.manorcare.com. For a short video visit us on YouTube: www.youtube.com/hcrmanorcare

A leader in rehabilitation and skilled nursing ManorCare Walnut Creek ManorCare Tice Valley 1226 Rossmoor Parkway 1975 Tice Valley Blvd Walnut Creek, CA 94595, 925.975.5000 Walnut Creek, CA 94595, 925.906.0200 Kim Curiel in her kitchen ready for olive oil tasting. Photo Sophie Braccini [email protected] [email protected] Page: B4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012 Poisonous Mushrooms Theater View By Mona Miller, DVM will be performed to monitor kidney and liver organs, as well as blood sugar and electrolytes. Veterinary Clinic If you suspect your dog has eaten wild mushrooms, bring samples of Theater View these fungi to your veterinarian when Veterinary Clinic you bring your dog in. Identification of the specific type of mushroom in- is a brand new gested can be very helpful in devel- facility owned by oping a treatment plan. “Dr. Laurie” Useful websites for mushroom Langford who has identification and photos can be found been caring for at http://bayareamushrooms.org/poi- animals in Orinda sonings and http://namyco.org/toxi- cology (North American Mycological for 15 years. Association). n light of the recent warning is- Amanita sp. are quickly absorbed Isued by the California Department from the intestines, and then cause of Public Health to discourage collec- both liver and kidney disease. There tion and consumption of wild mush- can be up to 12 hours between inges- rooms, I thought I would discuss the tion of the mushroom and illness. Ini- danger of wild mushrooms to pets, es- tial symptoms are related to the pecially dogs. Some dogs are at- gastrointestinal tract and include nau- “Dr. Laurie” Langford tracted to mushrooms with a fishy sea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdomi- odor, while other dogs are non-dis- nal pain. Further symptoms in the Phone: (925) 317-3187 criminating and will eat anything of first 24-36 hours are fever, rapid heart Death cap Photo Michael Wood Fax: (925) 334-7017 interest in the backyard or on the trail. rate, changes in serum electrolytes www.mykoweb.com Mushrooms can be classified accord- and glucose. Then liver and kidney Email: [email protected] ing to their type of toxin; of these systems become affected and will www.theaterviewvetclinic.com eight categories, six are important as start to fail. Without treatment, death 1 Bates Blvd., Suite 200, Orinda potential pet toxicities. Some cause can occur in three to seven days. liver failure, some cause gastrointesti- When early and aggressive treat- nal irritation, and others cause neuro- ment is instituted, the overall progno- logic disease. As an aside, most sis is good. If a dog has just ingested Special Screening of edible, store-bought mushrooms are mushrooms and not yet shown signs, non-toxic to dogs, although a change he may be made to vomit. Addition- from regular diet may contribute to ally, a binding substance called acti- indigestion and stomach upset. vated charcoal will be introduced into Casablanca The most common poisonous his stomach to capture any toxin not We will be celebrating the 70th anniversary to the mushrooms in the Bay Area are yet absorbed into the bloodstream. day (January 23, 1943) of the release of perhaps one Amanita and Galerina species. These This can be repeated several times Dr. Mona Miller lives in Lafayette with her young son, two cats and of the best films ever made. Followed by Q & A with are found almost year-round, but es- over the next 48 hours in order to con- pecially from fall through spring. tinue to bind active toxin. Further Luka a new puppy. She has worked Rosario Tronnolone, world renowned expert on at Four Seasons Animal Hospital in Amanita species are the most com- supportive care includes hospitaliza- Ingrid Bergman, direct from Italy. Lafayette since moving here in mon mushrooms involved in both tion, intravenous fluids, gastrointesti- 2001. She attended Cal as an under- dog and human fatal poisonings, with nal medications for nausea and grad, and received her DVM from Amanita phalloides (commonly vomiting. Anti-oxidant medication U.C. Davis. She can be reached at called the Death Cap Mushroom) at can be given to further reduce damage Four Seasons, 938-7700, or by email the top of the list. The toxins in to liver and kidney cells. Blood tests to [email protected]. Lamorindans Love Christmas Collections ... continued from page B1 The bunk beds in the boys’ room are Jacobs rotates the sweaters she covered with material from her own wears, especially those which be- sons’ beds. It has a pool table, fishing longed to her mother. A soft blue zip- gear and motorcycle posters. pered sweater embroidered with “Mason’s room” doubles as the snowmen may be her favorite. Her game room, and is dedicated to her pink snowman sweater is made en- oldest son, a Campolindo High tirely of crocheted circles. A Christ- School senior. The guitar on the mas dog sweater features couch is ready to be played, and the Santa-hatted dogs and beribboned walls are covered with pictures of bones. Jacobs’ nutcracker sweater has Windatt’s three boys in their football been worn to the Nutcracker ballet. gear. The hall has a grand piano and It was also worn to church, where it Christmas tree, and the attic holds an quietly occupied her son throughout January 23 Q & A with art studio. “I’ve been obsessed about the service when he was little. Mr. Rosario it [the dollhouse],” Windatt admits. A caroling reindeer sweater used 7 PM Tronnolone She’ll store it in their dining room on to light up, until Jacobs accidentally a revolving base after the holidays. washed the battery pack. That one Orinda Theatre Orindan Wendy Jacobs’ Christ- she bought at a discount. “I paid mas sweaters are decorated with $4.95 for that – the price of a Star- trees, snowmen, penguins, dogs, nut- bucks [coffee]!” Jacobs says. crackers and reindeer. She didn’t Her mother’s sweaters weren’t start collecting them for herself; she usually on sale when they were pur- did it as a favor for her father, who chased in December. Now, the entire enlisted her help to buy sweaters as sweater collection hangs in Jacobs’ presents for her mother. That shop- closet, ready for the next holiday ping trip piqued Jacobs’ interest, and event. she learned to prowl boutiques for What wonderful conversation Check www.lamorindatheatres.com for all movie listings fresh samples of seasonal stitchery. starters!

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By Cathy Dausman “Thank you. We very much appreciate In a forest with trees pointing up to the moon, the high quality of care for Scott that the Don’t worry, there lived and there sang an uncommon raccoon. ‘Night Team’ provides. We sleep well, knowing he Listening closely, you could hear him each night, is well cared for while he dreams. All the best.” help is here! his voice softly weaving its way through the heights. ~Nancy & family High in his perch at the top of a tree, Rahoola sang simply to set a song free. – Rahoola’s Song (Cupola Press, 2012) Call us anytime you need an extra hand. Our caregivers--all bonded and insured-- help ease the burden of caring for loved ones:

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Robert Anke Photo Gail Perry Johnston ith the debut of Rahoola’s name, which is drawn from the 30% off WSong, first year Stanley name given to Buddha’s only child Middle School art teacher Robert (usually spelled Rahula). He used Christmas Decor Anke can now add another title to his his 6-year-old son as a “beta name: published author. Anke, whose reader” for the story. family owned since 1933 Running in the Halls comic ran in a The busy middle school art local paper for one year, illustrated the teacher, and former Springhill Ele- 32-page hardback children’s book. mentary school teacher, is the son and The story left at least one critic liken- grandson of a teacher. ing it to having “the fun and heart of “If I won the lottery I’d still teach a Dr. Seuss [book].” It even has the half-time,” he said. Yet he continues rhyme. his work as an author while immersed Anke, who loves to draw, began in learning two new art curriculums the project 12 years ago in college as and advising the Stanley yearbook a way to teach children a simple les- class. Anke, who said it feels good to son: that we are enough. “True, last- have met his publishing goal, appre- ing happiness and contentment is not ciates the support his students and found outside of us,” he said. He their parents have shown by attending Our mission is to provide personalized care, wrote the story first, following up his area book store readings. help maintain independence and with illustrations. Start to finish, the He has finished the writing por- AT HOME enhance our client’s quality of life second go-around took over two tion of a second book, designed for on a daily basis. years to complete, as he “forced the a toddler audience and is also mid- • Fully bonded and insured rhyme to get better by employing an way through the development of a • Geriatric care management economy of words.” fall-themed book of prose for ele- • Hourly care The story features Rahoola, a mentary students. Anke the author. • Live-in care happy, singing raccoon, who receives Anke the teacher. Perhaps an unex- 3645 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite D Lafayette • Transportation to and from an unexpected inheritance which pected inheritance for us all. (beside Trader Joe’s) medical appointments changes his life. Rahoola’s Song is published by www.excellentcareathome.com • Medication reminders Anke liked the alliterative Cupola Press (www.cupolapress.com/ Call to schedule a free assessment and plan care review. 925-284-1213 sound of Rahoola Raccoon, and the RahoolasSong.html) and is available “larger, spiritual tradition” of the online.

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Triple Golden Birthday 12-year-old Singer Inspired to Make a for Miss Sydney Difference By Sophie Braccini By Jennifer Wake Malala make a stand. When word about the video reached Malala’s family, Malala’s fa- ther watched it together with his daughter who is still recovering from her injuries in England. In an email to Martin Dec. 8, Malala’s father said they could not control their tears when watching the piece. “When my dad told me that Malala's dad had emailed us I was beyond excited,” Martin said. “What touched me the most was Sydney Bagley arrives in her class at Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School. how grateful he was for what we did. Photo Sophie Braccini Reading that he cried while watching ince she was very young, Sydney The teacher sat everyone down the video brought tears – joyful ones Samantha Anne Martin sits at the piano in the video Ricochet. – to my eyes.” SBagley knew that her golden and took the opportunity to quiz the Photo provided birthday would come and that her par- class about the different meanings and Knowing that her video had such ne simple act can affect the and melodies. The group produced ents would make it special for her. symbols of the number depicting a an effect on Malala and her dad world. It’s one of the lessons a video of the song, Ricochet Bagley was born Dec. 12, 2000, and dozen. “What element has the atomic O made Martin want to help her even Samantha Anne Martin learned in (Malala’s Song), which was posted last Wednesday she turned 12. number 12?” she asked. “Magne- more, she said. “It's a great feeling her sixth grade class at Stanley Mid- on the Change.org website. The day started early with her sium,” answered a young girl – pretty to know that my video made it dle School in Lafayette. The video includes clips from best friends coming to her home for a good for a sixth grader! “What is 12 halfway around the world and ‘rico- Martin was taking a course on news reports about the Pakistani traditional ‘Shanghai’ wake-up call. dozen called?” “One hundred and cheted’ back to California in such a adversity, learning about homeless- teen. "I have a right to sing, I have First period for Bagley was Lisa forty-four,” answered a boy. strong way.” ness and bullying, when her teacher the right to talk, I have the right to go Gruen’s sixth grade core class. There, “Yes,” added Gruen, “but it has a The video ends with a plea to had the class read an article and to market, I have the right to speak," the Joaquin Moraga Intermediate specific noun associated with it; do nominate Malala for the Nobel Peace showed them a video about Malala the activist is shown saying. School student was totally surprised you know what it is?” The answer is Prize due to her efforts to speak out Yousafzai, the 15-year-old Pakistani In the video, Martin, who is a by what awaited her: balloons, whis- a ‘gross.’ for girls’ rights everywhere, risking activist who was shot in October by three-time group competition winner tles, and a lot of excitement before the Bagley’s parents were there as her life in the process. Ricochet Taliban gunmen on her way home of Orinda Idol and who performed in class broke into a joyous Happy well because, after the core class pe- (Malala’s Song), which has already from school for promoting girls’ the lead role of Annie at Berkeley Birthday song. riod, the family headed to the airport. been played on the radio, is available rights. Playhouse last year, sings of the little “This is a very well-behaved Destination: New York City. “We had on iTunes and all proceeds go to Inspired by the teen’s courage girl like her who lived under siege. class,” said Gruen, “so it made sense been talking about this for a long MalalaFund.org. The video can be and plight, Martin decided to write a The final lyrics of the song ask for to give them a little party time. This time,” said Bagley’s mother, Renée. viewed at www.change.org/malala song about Malala. She and her fa- the world for support and to help triple golden birthday is a rarity, the “Sydney is a real theater buff so we or on YouTube. ther, Dan, wrote the lyrics, a friend next time someone will be able to cel- decided on New York.” of her father’s wrote the music, all of ebrate his or her 12th birthday on “I will never forget this day,” them collaborating on the harmonies 12/12/12 will be in 2112.” Bagley said.

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call Alex Gailas Broker, President, CRS, GRI, CFS 43 Moraga Way Orinda, CA 94563 Cell: 925-788-0229 925-254-7600 [email protected] www.AGRealty1.com A grove of trees in Moraga sport mistletoe in their branches. Photos Cathy Dausman issing couples seek it out at water from the tree, either stunting its remain unmarried throughout the KChristmas, but pity the poor growth or eventually killing it. A U.C. New Year. Lamorinda tree playing host to Davis pest management website de- Mistletoe has also been used mistletoe. Nat King Cole may have scribes several kinds of common since ancient times to treat illness. waxed poetic about enjoying turkey broadleaf mistletoe in California. Even today its mystical powers per- Appointments with Cristina and some mistletoe, and Justin Bieber One affects trees including alder, sist. The National Cancer Institute sings about being under the mistletoe, flowering pear, ash, birch, walnut and says mistletoe is used to treat cancer, 925-886-5176 but mistletoe, like the local wild cottonwood; another variety infests most commonly in Europe. So Robert Jenson Salon 999 Oak Hill Rd. Lafayette turkey, is actually a pest—a parasite. only oaks. A third variety is endemic whether it makes you feel good or just Okay, it’s technically only hemi- to Sonoma County. There are even makes you feel romantic, we bet $25 Blowdry & Style for the parasitic, which means that it actually mistletoe varieties which infest fir you’ll never look at mistletoe the whole month of December! can exist on its own, although like an trees and conifers in the Sierra Ne- same next year! unwanted holiday guest it probably vada Mountains and foothills. prefers to mooch off the nearest host- Just how did the kissing ritual as- tree. sociated with mistletoe begin? In an- Rheem Valley Convalescent Hospital & Rehabilitation Tumbleweed-sized mistletoe cient times, mistletoe signified life, Rheem Valley Convalescent clumps are common in local tree fertility and forgiveness. The Greeks Award Hospital & Rehabilitation has groves, and are easily visible when believed it protected them from evil Winning earned the AHCA National deciduous trees shed their leaves. The spirits, and armies or angry spouses in Care & Anglo-Saxon roots, “mistel” and Scandinavia could declare a truce un- Rehab Quality Bronze Award for Our “tan,” literally meaning dung and derneath what they considered a plant Commitment To Quality. twig, explain just how unromantically of peace. In 18th century England, a Let us provide you with the shiny green parasite transfers from young woman found beneath a Award Winning Care. bird food to droppings to tree branch. mistletoe ball could not refuse to be We Specialize in Post Acute Once established, mistletoe saps kissed; if she rebuffed a suitor, she’d Rehab – in addition to traditional

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Safety by Design Submitted by H. Wheeler William Audley, a sophomore at We do the work. You get to play. Acalanes High School, submitted two posters and waited nervously. He was Established 1977 in Lafayette, California. excited about this contest because Maintenance • Repair • Build Serving the entire Contra Costa County there was prize money on the table area and beyond. and he felt good about his designs. William’s confidence could be counted on. A design by William last year was chosen by Acalanes school faculty to cover the academic school planner for 2012-2013. Interested in computers and art when he started Acalanes, Audley at 76 Gas Station chose Digital Design 1 as an elective his freshman year. His interest and "On your Side for the Ride" passion grew swiftly. “I really like using graphic design tools and I really • Over 400 Major Brands in Stock! First-place Digital Design poster by like the class. It’s fun!” says Audley Acalanes High School student of Digital Design. His enjoyment of William Audley. Image provided the class is shored up daily by Digital • Open 7 Days a Week Design teacher Susan Lane who in- eachers go to great lengths to structs students in Adobe Illustrator • FREE Tire Inspection educate our kids and to help T and Photoshop. Beyond software, them make good choices. But who Lane works to improve her students’ • Free Tire AIR reminds teachers to make safe choices understanding of the field of graphic for themselves each day at work? Ap- design. And with each new element parently, students do. • Shuttle Service Available taught, she lets the artists go to work. For the past four years, the Contra “She lets us work independently,” Costa County Schools Insurance says Audley. “It’s great!” Challeng- 67 Moraga Way, Orinda Group (CCCIG) has turned to stu- ing her students with projects such as dents throughout over 20 school dis- the CCCIG contest, Lane seizes op- (925) 253-7799 tricts they insure to portray anew their portunities to teach a real life skill: de- message of classroom safety. A $100 signing under pressure. Audley is cash prize motivates students from catching on. His safety poster will be Antioch Elementary schools to the posted in offices of over 20 school Contra Costa Community Colleges to districts. design a winning poster. CCCIG Second place in the high school hopes fresh designs each year will category also went to an Acalanes capture the eye of teachers in staff High School Student. Kyle McQuain, rooms, reminding them to stay safe at a freshman and a student in Lane’s work. In the Fourth Annual “Slip Trip Digital Design 1 class helped make it Fall Prevention Student Poster Con- “A sweep!” according to Lane, who test” the winning design in the high will also receive $100 from CCCIG school category came from the to help with classroom supplies. Acalanes School District. Page: B8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012 “The 13 Days of Christmas” Holiday Production Benefits Children’s Hospital CARPET CLEANING Submitted by Marian Rule LAMORINDA'S FAVORITE FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS year’s audience guessing.” FOR OVER 36 YEARS This year’s third show, "Franc D'Ambrosio's Christmas in New (925) 283-8744 WINTER SPECIAL York," will feature Franc D'Ambro- www.siggyscarpetcleaning.com I5% OFF sio, best known for his impressive 3408 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Lafayette portrayal of the title character in Broadway's Phantom of the Opera. D'Ambrosio holds the distinction of being the world's longest-running Phantom. He will be joined onstage by PPF founder Leslie Noel, and 90 young members of the foundation Friday, Dec. 21 at the New Rheem Theatre in Moraga. Doors open at 6 p.m. for a silent auction and appetiz- From left, Peter Pan Foundation cast members Robyn Stephenson and An- ers. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. drew Cope during the Dec. 16 performance of "The 13 Days of Christmas." The Peter Pan Foundation (PPF) Photo Thom Hayes is a non-profit organization founded ore than 100 local perform- “The foundation produces three by Noel, who has led the efforts of Mers, ages 5 to 50, from Lam- shows each year,” said Skinner, who hundreds of local youth in philan- orinda and other local areas also serves this year as the president thropic activities; kids help kids, and performed in the Peter Pan Founda- of the Peter Pan Foundation’s teen use their musical talents and the arts tion’s (PPF) holiday musical, “The 13 council. “Last year, Andrew and I to entertain and raise money for local Days of Christmas,” last Saturday and had the idea that we could write the charities. Celebrating its fifth anniver- Sunday, Dec. 15 and 16. The show show set in the small town of Ever- sary, PPF hopes to raise $50,000 for was created and written by Cam- green. The people of Evergreen are Children’s Hospital and Research polindo High School senior Jayne looking forward to the holidays, but Center Oakland and for other local Skinner and Acalanes High School something is amiss in town and it charities, all from the three musical junior Andrew Cope. evolves into a mystery. Our 2012 ver- production proceeds. For more in- All Year Round For Cope, the exciting part was sion of the show was all new: still a formation about the organization, visit Experienced tutor the opportunity to see the show mystery, but re-written to keep this www.peterpanfoundation.org. Located in Lamorinda. they wrote ‘come to life’ and to see Works with Children and Adults the enthusiasm in the younger per- Flexible Schedules Available: formers as they gained confidence Two Campo Grads Mondays-Fridays 8am to 8pm on stage. “As our high school and Saturdays: 8am to 2pm college performers worked with Featured on Yahoo’s Sundays: By Appointment Only References provided the younger kids, we all learned Cristina: Phone: (925) 283-0770 • email: [email protected] something,” he said. “The Peter Ultimate Surprises Pan Foundation gave us huge op- By Cynthia Brian portunities while giving us the chance to benefit the kids at Chil- dren’s Hospital Oakland who need our help.”

Photos provided

he story of how two people posal transpired in November. Tmeet and fall in love is always Under the ruse of a business fascinating. Is it destiny, chemistry, or meeting, Sheaff waited on a just being in the right place at the right restaurant balcony for the sup- time? For two Campolindo High posed “client” to arrive when the School graduates, it was love and waitress informed her that the fire serendipity. department had been called to This fall the engagement of the check an electrical issue in the two Moraga natives was the feature of kitchen. Sirens and horns blared. Yahoo’s Ultimate Surprises, an inter- As the ladder reached the top of net reality show with a positive spin. the balcony, the firefighter Former Moragan and current Los dressed in full turn out gear, Angeles firefighter, Brian Rankin, jumped out of the bucket with the surprised his radio personality girl- ultimate romantic surprise. Al- friend, Heather Sheaff, with a sparkly though they had known one an- ring in Huntington Beach amidst the other since they were six, it took blaring sirens of fire trucks and a film 20 years to fall in love. crew with hidden cameras. Congratulations to these Moraga Rankin and Sheaff’s mom se- natives for starring in their own love cretly worked with the casting di- story – Proposal to the Rescue! Watch rector and production company for it: http://screen.yahoo.com/episode-7- three months behind the scenes be- proposal-to-the-rescue- fore the elaborate clandestine pro- 31030474.html. Writing College Essays? Need help? Writing coach Cynthia Brian helps college applicants write compelling essays. "Rachel powered through her essay and application after her session with you. Working with you was the right focus, right person, right time. We can't thank you enough! You are amazing!" Mother Call 925-377-STAR or email [email protected] Hourly fees. Book your writing session today. Cynthia cares. Wednesday, December 19, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B9 Mayor Days Be Merry By Susie Iventosch he holidays are the perfect to add to the repertoire. Our Lamor- Orinda Mayor Steven Glazer Lafayette Mayor Carol Ttime to bring out treasured inda mayors have come up with family recipes, but also a fun occa- some of their favorite holiday dishes Federighi sion to experiment with new dishes for you to enjoy at home!

Photo Susie Iventosch e was a picky eater as a youngster, preferring cereal Hwith no milk for breakfast and peanut butter and Photo Susie Iventosch jelly sandwiches – hold the peanut butter – for lunch. But, afayette Mayor Carol Federighi prepares a very spe- there is one special dish Orinda Mayor Steven Glazer re- Lcial soup for her holiday fare. members especially fondly. "My Christmas Eve selection involves a lot of chop- "I grew up with my mother's kugel being a favorite ping, but the result is well worth the effort," Federighi holiday treat," Glazer said. noted. "It is a curried carrot-apple soup with ginger crème While Glazer does not have his mom's exact recipe, fraîche, but I must credit Bay Cafe who ran this recipe he said that his neighbor, Dvora Citron, passed hers along from Chef Gloria Ciccarone of The Big Four in 1998." and it closely matches his mom's. And, I must credit Mayor Federighi for passing this Kugel literally means "ball" in Yiddish and German, fabulous recipe along to me. I have never tasted a soup so From left: Steven Glazer, Carol Federighi and Mike Metcalf but also refers to a custard-style side dish or dessert, made bursting with flavor! The spicy flavors lend themselves Photo Andy Scheck with milk, eggs, sour cream and cottage cheese. Originally festively to any holiday occasion. made from bread and flour, kugel was a savory rather than Curried Carrot-Apple Soup Moraga Mayor Michael Metcalf sweet dish. Some 800 years ago, bread was replaced by ayor Metcalf's Christmas culinary masterpiece was inspired by Julia noodles, and in the 17th century the addition of raisins, with Ginger Crème Fraîche MChild many years ago, when he decided to braise a goose. cinnamon and sugar allowed the dish to also be served as (Serves12-16) "This is not just any stuff-in-the-oven goose," reported the mayor. "This dessert. INGREDIENTS is a full-on 'meat and chestnut' stuffed bird, braised in turkey stock made from Mayor Glazer said it was used more as a side dish in 1/2 cup olive oil the Thanksgiving turkey." his family, but with the sugar and spice, we opted for the 3 onions, chopped He says the key is a "properly prepared and carefully installed" veal and dessert route! 6 shallots, chopped pork stuffing, or farce in French. His wife, Sharon, works by his side preparing 6 garlic cloves, chopped braised red cabbage with chestnuts and Brussels sprout-potato mash. Sweet Noodle Pudding 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced "This meal is best served with a robust pinotage, and, of course, excellent (Kugel) 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced company," added the mayor. 8 carrots, peeled and chopped INGREDIENTS Metcalf said that his guidance for this dish was and remains Julia Child's 3 parsnips, peeled and chopped Mastering the Art of French Cooking, which is still available for purchase, 12 ounces extra wide egg noodles 4 green apples, peeled, cored and chopped and, in fact, can be downloaded right onto your iPad! That is where mine re- 3 eggs 1 1/2 tablespoons curry powder sides, so it is always accessible ... even while travelling. 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander "Julia never made anything simple, and this is no exception, but she nailed 8 ounces low-fat sour cream (I used plain non- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger it with this recipe," Metcalf remarked. "When I first did it, the entire operation fat yogurt) 1 tablespoon salt took well over six hours. Now, 30 years later, I knock it out in about three ... 16 ounces low-fat cottage cheese 1/2 teaspoon white pepper and at a much more leisurely pace." 1/2 cup low-fat milk 1 gallon chicken stock (I used 3 quarts for a Because Mayor Metcalf's menu is extensive, we invite you to visit the 1 stick butter thicker soup) Lamorinda Weekly website for a full accounting of his recipes for the holi- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract days. 1 teaspoon cinnamon DIRECTIONS Now that you are equipped with a few more holiday recipes, I wish all of 1/2 cup raisins Saute first five ingredients until fragrant. Add you a delightful and delectable holiday season! 1/2 cup brown sugar carrots, parsnips and apples and continue to saute for another five minutes. Add spices, salt DIRECTIONS Susie Iventosch is the author of Tax Bites and pepper. Saute until veggies are tender. and Tasty Morsels, which can be found at Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Cook noodles Across the Way in Moraga, Add chicken stock to cover and boil for one www.amazon.com, and www.taxbites.net. as directed on package, drain and set aside. In hour or until everything is soft and smells fan- Susie can be reached at a large bowl, beat eggs until foamy. Add sugar tastic! Cool to room temperature. Once cooled, [email protected]. gradually and continue beating. Add sour puree in batches until silken in texture. Reheat These recipe is available on our web site cream, cottage cheese, milk and melted butter. and serve hot with a dollop of crème fraîche. www.lamorindaweekly.com. If you would Add vanilla, cinnamon and raisins. Toss in like to share your favorite recipe with Susie cooked noodles and mix well. Put in greased Ginger Crème Fraîche please contact her by email or call our 9x13 ovenproof casserole. Sprinkle brown Mix together: 1 cup crème fraîche, 1/4 tea- office at 925-377-0977. sugar over top. Bake 1 hour. spoon ground ginger and pinch of salt. Business Service Directory

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The exhibit for December The annual HO Scale model train meeting location. will include George Wahbeh's oil exhibition, featuring a unique, mod- paintings, Roland Nunn's hooked rugs, ular display of model trains traveling Lamorinda Dance Social. Enjoy af- Alexander Walcheck's drawings, and through an “Old World” countryside, ternoon dancing every Wednesday Alex Meckes' Origami. The Gallery will be open at the Blackhawk Mu- and learn some great new dance is located adjacent to the library at 26 seum through Jan. 6. Exhibition is in- moves from 12:30 to 3 p.m. every Orinda Way in Orinda. For more info, cluded with regular museum Wednesday at the Lafayette Commu- visit www.orindaartscouncil.org/com- admission: $10 for adults; $7 for stu- nity Center Live Oak Room, 500 St. munity_library. dents and seniors; and free for children Mary's Road, Lafayette. Cost: $2 for Lamorinda’s under 6 (must be accompanied by a members; $4 for non-members. For Valley Art Gallery's 47th annual paid adult). Open Wednesday to Sun- more info, call (925) 284-5050. Religious Services Holiday Crafts show and sale featur- day, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and special hol- ing many well known Bay Area crafts- iday hours on Monday, Dec. 24 and 31. Hospice of the East Bay Support people runs through Dec. 22 at 1662 For more info, visit www.blackhawk- Groups for Adults. Drop-In Bereave- Botelho Drive, Walnut Creek. The fine museum.org or call (925) 736-2277. ment Support Group meets on the first crafts available include decorative as and third Wednesday of the month well as functional ceramics, glass, Fairy Tales. Children ages 4-6 can from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill jewelry, wood, and fabric items. In ad- have fun exploring the roles animals Campus, 3470 Buskirk Ave. For more dition, there are over 300 paintings play in the classic fairy tales and fables info, call (925) 887-5681 or visit available for sale and for rent. Valley and meet some of the live animals in www.hospiceeastbay.org. Art is a nonprofit organization dedi- these stories from 10 a.m. to noon cated to the promotion and support of Wednesday, Jan. 2 at the Lindsay Hospice of the East Bay Support visual and tactile artists of the greater Wildlife Museum, 1931 First Ave., Group for Adults. The Pet Loss Sup- Bay Area. For info, contact Julie Arm- Walnut Creek. Teacher's helpers posi- port Group meets on the first Tuesday strong, (925) 935-4311. tions are available for ages 9-14. Cost: of the month from noon to 1:30 p.m. $20; $10 for members. For more info, at the Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue MUSIC call (925) 627-2930 or visit Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, www.//wildlife-museum.org/educa- Walnut Creek. Pre-registration is re- The Acalanes Music Department tion/kids. quired. For more information or to presents the 2012 Winter Choral pre-register please call (925) 887-5681 Sunday, December 23 The Fourth Sunday of Advent Concerts; "Old and New" on Dec. 20 Circuit Cities. It’s electrifying! Chil- or visit www.hospiceeastbay.org. Advent Lessons & Carols with Eucharist at 8:00am & 10:00am at 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Cen- dren ages 7-10 experiment with cir- Monday, December 24th at 4:00pm ter, 1200 Pleasant Hill Rd. These two cuits, learn how electricity works and Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Christmas Pageant and First Eucharist of Christmas programs will feature Chorale, Con- explore alternative forms of generating Church Taize Service. Come for a Start the festivities with Family Carol Singing at 3:30pm cert Choir, Bella Voce, Chamber energy in this hands-on class from 1 to respite from the holiday rush to refresh Monday, December 24th at 8:00pm Singers, Contemporary A Cappella 3 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3 at the Lindsay your spirit at 7 p.m. the last Thursday Christmas Eve Candlelight Eucharist Project, The Innuendos, Women's Wildlife Museum, 1931 First Ave., of the month, 49 Knox Dr., Lafayette. The service is preceded by music for organ and trumpet at 7:40pm Octet and on the 18th, special guests, Walnut Creek. Teacher's helpers posi- For more info, email Monday, December 24th at 11:00pm the Chanticleer LAB 7 Choir. Please tions are for ages 12-15. Cost: $30; [email protected]. Christmas Eve Candlelight Eucharist join us for one or both concerts that $20 for members. For more info, call Beginning with a concert of Christmas music for choir and will showcase older repertoire, newer (925) 627-2930 or visit Hospice of the East Bay Support instruments at 10:30pm takes on old repertoire and completely www.//wildlife-museum.org/educa- Groups for Adults. The Widow and Tuesday, December 25th at 10:00am new songs. Suggested Donation: $5 tion/kids. Widowers' Support group meets on Christmas Day Eucharist for adults; $3 for seniors; students 18 Thursdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Jan. Sunday, December 30 at 8:00am and 10:00am and under free. OTHER 3 through Feb. 21 at the Pleasant Hill The First Sunday After Christmas Day campus, 3470 Buskirk Ave., Pleasant WCSA Lafayette Songwriters' Common Threads Stitching Group. Hill. Pre-registration is required. For 66 St. Stephen’s Drive, Orinda Competition. Come join the Lauras Whether you are a seasoned cross- more info, or to pre-register please call 254-3770. www.ststephensorinda.org for the inaugural Lafayette WCSA stitcher or newbie beginner, join this (925) 887-5681 or visit Songwriters' Competition! You do not ongoing, drop-in group for instruction, www.hospiceeastbay.org. have to be a songwriter to attend this guidance, or simply a relaxing after- St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church event. The meetings are at 7 p.m. the noon spent with fellow stitchers. The SEED (Special Education Enrich- A Loving Community second Wednesday of each month at group meets from 2 to 3 p.m. every ment Development) Foundation of Sunday Services: 8 and 10 AM Lamorinda Music, 81 Lafayette Cir- Wednesday at the Lafayette Commu- Lafayette is co-funding a 12-week Be- In-church Youth Zone, 10 AM Nursery Childcare cle, Lafayette. Cost: $5. For more nity Center Elderberry Room, 500 St. havior Management course for info, email Laura Zucker at zuck- Mary's Road, Lafayette. There is no Lafayette parents Wednesday nights, 682 Michael Lane, Lafayette, 284-7420, www.stanselms.ws [email protected] or visit www.west- meeting Dec. 19 and Dec. 26. For 6:30 to 9 p.m. starting Jan. 9 through coasts...ongwriters.org/become-a-me more info, call (925) 284-5050. Mar. 27 in Lafayette. By teaching pos- mber. itive behavioral strategies, parents will Self-Discovery and Aging, Creative gain tools and strategies to support Get connected. THEATER Writing Workshop. Workshop ses- their child in home and community Grow in your faith. sions include writing prompts, feed- settings. For more info, or to register Join host Tony La Russa and fea- back and encouragement, and please call (925) 788-0451 or email Serve others. tured performers Mark Pitta and information about the world of writers, Robin Hauge at Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church Friends for a memorable start to 2013. writing, and publishing and meet from [email protected]. Sunday Worship 9 & 11:00 a.m. Comedy Night is on Friday, Jan. 4 at 10 a.m. to noon the second and fourth the Lesher Center for the Arts in Wal- Thursday each month in the Cedar Lamorinda Dogs is looking for your Programs for children & youth nut Creek. Tickets available early De- Room at the Lafayette Community support. Lamorinda Dogs is build- cember at (925) 943-SHOW; all Center, 500 St. Mary's Road, ing a pet recovery network in Lamor- 49 Knox Drive l Lafayette l www.LOPC.org l 925-283-8722 proceeds benefit ARF. Lafayette. Cost: $1 for members; $3 inda and helping pet owners document for non-members. For more info, call and prepare for disasters. To donate: The Princess and The Pea, fairytale (925) 284-5050. send your check to Lamorinda Dogs, by Hans Christian Andersen. The 101 Alta Mesa Court, Moraga, CA The Orinda Come Play MahJongg! MahJongg 94556 or go to Community Church is a game of skill, strategy, and cer- www.lamorindadogs.org. 10 Irwin Way, Orinda | 925.254.4906 | www.orindachurch.org tain degree of chance. Bring your “No matter who you are, wherever you are on life’s card, a mahjongg set and a snack to Community Christmas Celebra- journey, you are welcome here!” share (optional) every Tuesday from 1 tion. During the candlelight celebra- Join us Sundays at 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Sequoia Room, tion, hear the Christmas story anew Lafayette Community Center, 500 St. and songs of the season at 6:30 p.m. Mary's Road, Lafayette. Cost: $1 for Thursday, Dec. 20 at the Refuge Com- members; $3 for non-members. For munity Church, 155 Moraga Road, more info, call (925)284-5050. Moraga. Free. For more info, call Princess and The Pea is a much adored (925) 942-1000 or visit traditional fairy tale of honesty and Nature Walk and Bird-Watching. www.refugecommunity.org. love. The show is at 7 p.m. Wednes- Delight in the beauty that unfolds day, Jan. 30 and at 4 p.m. Thursday, around each bend, all the while learn- ... continued on next page Jan. 31 at the LeFevre Theatre, Saint ing to identify a variety of birds. Mary's College, 1928 St. Mary's Road, Bring a water bottle; binoculars will be Please submit events to: Moraga. Cost: $8. For more info, call helpful if you have them. The nature calendar@lamorinda (925) 631-4670 or visit www.brown- walks are every Wednesday from 9 to weekly.com papertickets.com. Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church, Orinda

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers 4:00 p.m. “Joy to the World” - a family-friendly service for make their return to Town Hall The- the young and young-at-heart atre, 3535 School St., Lafayette this 6:00 p.m. “First Noel” - a candlelight communion service with a contemporary feel holiday season at 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10:00 p.m. “Silent Night” - a traditional candlelight 20. For info, visit www.townhallthe- communion celebration atre.com/music-comedy-series. Tickets (Childcare available at both 4 and 6 p.m.) are available through Ticket Master. We worship on December 23 and 30 with single service at 9:30 a.m. KIDS, PARENTS & TEENS 433 Moraga Way www.holyshepherd.org 254-3422 Science Quest. Children ages 6-9 can explore and experiment through fàA Z|Äxá XÑ|ávÉÑtÄ V{âÜv{ the different branches of science from Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday through December 24th at 9:00pm Saturday, Dec. 26-28 at Lindsay St. Mary's College Chapel Wildlife Museum, 1931 First Ave., 1928 St. Mary's Rd., Moraga Walnut Creek. Teacher's helpers posi- 925-376-5770 - www.stgiles-moraga.org tions are available for ages 11-14. Sunday Eucharist at 9:00am - Inclusive & Affirming Cost: $30; $20 for members. For more info, call (925) 627-2930 or visit Wednesday, December 19, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B11 Not to be missed Last Year Jan Term Speaker Series. Soulful more info, call (925) 631-4771 or visit OTHER ... continued and Sacred: Celebrating the Black www.stmarys-ca.edu. Marilyn, This Catholic Experience. Father Edward 4th Annual Sweaty Eddy & Santa Branch will speak about the distinc- Stars to the rescue presented by Pub Crawl presented by Norm's tive experience and journey of Black ARF. Adopt two kitten kinder- Year Hitchcock! Place. Come dressed in your Ugliest Catholics in America from 5:30 to garteners for the price of one, or a By Derek Zemrak Holiday Sweaters, Holiday Costume 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15 at the Saint ‘purrfect’ cat two years or older for or as the big guy himself, Santa! Most Mary's College Soda Activity Center, half-off the adoption fee! Standard fun to have right before Xmas! This 1928 St. Mary's Road, Moraga. Free. adoption criteria apply. Join Tony La event is on Saturday, Dec. 22 from 7 For more info, call (925) 631-4771 or Russa and ARF on Saturday, Jan. 5 at to 11 p.m. at Norm's Place, 356 Hartz visit www.stmarys-ca.edu. the Lesher Center for the Arts, 2890 Ave., Danville. Cost: $30. For more Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. For info, call (925) 552-6676 or visit Montelindo Garden Club. The more info, call (925) 296-3153 or visit www.normsgrill.com. club will meet at 9 a.m. Jan. 18 at www.arf.net. the Orinda Community Church, 10 Jan Term Speaker Series. Chang- Irwin Way. The speaker, Don Dillon, POLITICAL GATHERINGS ing the World 101. Jason Connell, Jr. from Four Winds Growers, will the executive director of Ignited discuss growing citrus in the Bay Inauguration Celebration Break- Leadership, a dynamic Washington, Area. For more info, call (925) 254- fast and Watch Party. The break- D.C.-based human service organiza- 3906. fast, which will be held Monday, Jan. tion that is dedicated to building a bet- 21 from 8 to 8:45 a.m. at the Lafayette ter world, will speak at 7 p.m. Jan Term Speaker Series. Unlikely Library's Community Room, 3491 Tuesday, Jan. 8 at the Saint Mary's Inspiration. Kaya Oakes, author of Mt. Diablo Blvd., will be hosted by College Soda Activity Center, 1928 Slanted and Enchanted: The Evolu- the Lamorinda Democratic Club to St. Mary's Road, Moraga. Free. For tion of Indie Culture will speak at 7 honor President Barack Obama as he more info, call (925) 631-4771 or visit p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 22 at the Saint is inaugurated for his second term in Photo Fox Searchlight Pictures www.stmarys-ca.edu. Mary's College Soda Activity Center, office. You must RSVP to guarantee itchcock, starring Oscar Winner Anthony Hopkins 1928 St. Mary's Road, Moraga. Free. a seat by contacting John Hall at jd- (The Silence of the Lambs) as Alfred Hitchcock, is DAR Orientation and Genealogy For more info, call (925) 631-4771 or [email protected]. H a movie that will surprise you. It is more about The Master Workshop. A workshop and orienta- visit www.stmarys-ca.edu. of Suspense’s relationship with his wife, Alma Reville, tion will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sat- Main Street meets Wall Street. portrayed by Oscar winner Helen Mirren (The Queen), urday, Jan. 12 for women over 18 Jan Term Speaker Series. Shining Make Wall Street pay. These ac- than his movie making magic. Mirren recently received interested in joining the Daughters of a Light on Modern-Day Slavery. tions mold public opinion which is the a well-deserved Golden Globe Nomination in her role as the American Revolution and learning Lisa Kristine, an acclaimed humani- ultimate determining factor in a Alma and I am sure an Oscar nod will be forthcoming for more about genealogy at the Montego tarian photographer who specializes democracy. This event is from 4 p.m. her. I had the opportunity to interview the director, Sacha Heights Lodge, 1400 Montego Way, in images of remote indigenous cul- until dark Wednesdays at Main Street Gervasi, who gives Lamorinda Weekly readers an inside Walnut Creek. Suggested donation: tures in more than 100 countries on and Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Walnut look at this outstanding independent film. $5. For more info, call Brenna six continents, will speak at 7 p.m. Creek. For more info, contact DZ: How does it feel to have directed a film that is al- Shafizadeh at (925) 287-0438. Thursday, Jan. 31 at the Saint Mary's [email protected] or visit ready getting Oscar buzz? College Soda Activity Center, 1928 http://www.trivalleydems.com/. SG: I am happy to have made a film that I am really proud St. Mary's Road, Moraga. Free. For of in the Hitchcock style. We made it for an audience of people who are going to enjoy the experience. DZ: As a director, how do you pull off a performance from the actors so you don’t see Anthony Hopkins or Helen Mirren on the screen; you see their characters on the screen? SG: It’s all about casting, through the crew and actors. If you are lucky enough to get great actors to agree to work with you, honestly 90 percent of the job is done. You hire them for the reason that they are good. They are clearly connected to the material and they bring their intelligence, insight and experience to the role. You allow them to do their job. It’s working with them on the material and al- lowing them to explore things, and letting them find their comfort zone and physical position. It’s very much “actor ‘Tis the Season of Giving centric” the way I work, which is to allow the actors to find the space and record it. Operation Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief. This program is organized by local teen DZ: The audience is going to learn a lot about not only volunteers of Club Be the Star You Are. The club needs monetary donations to ship books and Hitchcock but also his wife Alma and her involvement in resources to families on the East Coast who suffered the devastation of Hurricane Sandy. $25 his career. Can you elaborate on that? ships five new books; $50 ships a dozen new books; $100 ships a full case. Checks may be sent SG: It is a fascinating story that not a lot of people know to Be the Star You Are!® 501c3, PO Box 376, Moraga, Ca. 94556 or make a contribution on about. She was instrumental in his career. She was the one line via Paypal. For more information please visit www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm. and who demanded the music in the famous Psycho shower www.btsya.com/hurricane_sandy_relief.html. scene. Alfred Hitchcock was determined that there should be no music. She absolutely insisted and because of their Moraga-Orinda Fire District and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. The 36-year marriage and the fact that he ultimately trusted mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped her, and against his will, he went with the music. And god toys during December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children was she right because when you think of Hitchcock the in Contra Costa County. Please join us in donating to the Toys for Tots Program at your local first thing you think about is the shower scene and the sec- Moraga, Orinda or nearest fire station. This program will be running through Dec. 21. ond thing you think about is the music. DZ: When the end credits roll what do you want the au- Roughing It Day Camp - Collecting Donations for One Warm Coat, Toys for Tots, and Food dience to leave with after seeing Hitchcock? Drive. Please donate coats of any size, new/unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items SG: Hopefully they walk away with a better understand- Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Dec. 27 to Roughing It Camp Office, ing of Hitchcock and partially his wife’s role in the creative 1010 Oak Hill Road, Lafayette. genius. But also a connection to someone who is this iconic figure and an understanding that we are all the Stuffed Animal Collection. The Moraga Police Officers Association along with S.A.F.E. (Stuffed same, we all struggle with relationships; we all struggle Animals For Emergencies) is collecting new or gently used stuffed animals to help children with ourselves and within relationships. It may not be through traumatic experiences. The stuffed animals are given to local police and fire departments what they were expecting and they all tell their friends to to distribute to children they encounter who have been affected by traumatic events. S.A.F.E go see it! also facilitates the distribution of donated stuffed animals for a variety of charitable purposes to Hitchcock opens at the Orinda Theatre on Friday, Dec. 21. help children. This year’s annual holiday collection drive ends Dec. 28. New or gently used Do not miss this interesting and informative film. stuffed animals can be dropped off at the collection area located in the lobby of the Moraga Police Derek Zemrak is a Film Critic, Film Producer and Founder Department, 329 Rheem Blvd. Thank you for your support! of the California Independent Film Festival. You can follow Derek on Twitter @zemrak for the latest Hollywood news.

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When she saw Chalmers is also experiencing in- revitalized, Carlos Gomez is happy to the space along Mt. Diablo Boulevard creased activity in her bright new stu- introduce his new neighbors, Marilyn she immediately loved it. “My hus- dio. “Now I can offer group classes, Chalmers and Catherine Jolivet. band thought it was awful, but I saw on top of my individual training prac- Jolivet, owner of French for Fun what it could become,” she said. Her tice,” she says. “I love coming to this for 15 years, had been looking for a husband Don Chalmers also teaches place,” adds Nancy Katz, one of new place for her school for a long at the new studio. Chalmers’ clients. “It feels like Mari- time. “Finding this little cottage is a Now the three business owners lyn (Chalmers): energetic, fun and in- miracle,” says the energetic business work together. “Carlos (Gomez) and spiring.” Chalmers, who says that she woman. “I had been looking for a I used to be neighbors when I first works with clients at any level of fit- year and all the commercial real estate opened my French school,” remem- ness, offers Functional Fitness train- brokers I worked with told me to give bers Jolivet, “and Marilyn is so pro- ing classes, TRX, stretch classes and up and move my business to Walnut fessional and charming. Every time I boot camp. Creek. But for me, it was either come to the new place (where she Grand openings of the new busi- Lafayette or retirement.” The hus- plans to move at the beginning of Jan- nesses should happen soon. You can Carlos Gomez, Marilyn Chalmers and Nancy Katz in front of the renovated band of one of her teachers saw a uary), I see people I know going to find more information about storefront. Photo Sophie Braccini Craigslist posting for the space and Carlos’ business.” Chalmers Fitness at www.chalmers- t was a sad sight along Mt. Diablo look completely different: neon signs Jolivet made an offer. “The location Gomez already has flyers from fitnessusa.com and French for Fun at IBoulevard, where Carlos Gomez’ and dark windows have been replaced was perfect. Of course, it looked Chalmers’ practice on the desk of his www.frenchforfun.com. For infor- tailoring business, Moises Gomez and with bright, large windows exposing awful inside, but we are creative and tailoring business. “I want everyone mation about Moises Gomez and As- Associates, was withering, sur- the new private gym, Chalmers Fit- not afraid of work; we knew we could here to be successful,” says Gomez, sociates, call (925) 283-6755. make something charming of it.” who has already seen a change in his rounded by massage parlors of ill re- ness; and less prominent, but equally Lamorinda Weekly business articles are intended pute. Now driving to the corner of important, the back massage location Marilyn Chalmers said exactly business since the massage parlors to inform the community about local business the same thing. She had been operat- vanished in July. “My customers are activities, not to endorse a particular company, Mt. Diablo and Willow Drive, one has also been completely remodeled product or service. might not recognize the place. The and is now home to the French ing a small gym nearby where she of- coming back,” he says looking at the trees have been trimmed and the school, French for Fun. Spanish-style gate that marks the en- Last February, after Willow neigh- trance to the Willow neighborhood is bors took matters into their own hands business briefs visible. and the Lafayette Police Department The storefronts on Mt. Diablo cracked down on the illegal activity, website Les Trois Bisous – the three kisses – where she sells what she makes. “Everything is homemade by me in small batches,” she says. “I buy only the best ingredi- ents, experiment to get the taste we love and cook for my clients like I do for my family and friends.” She adds that LeapFrog Plumbing anyone in need of any pies, tarts, cookies or other treats for the holidays, or for their own personal dinners, may To all of our Lamorinda get in touch with her. Visit www.lestroisbisous.com for customers: more information about her products. You’re the best! We thank Care Indeed you for the privilege of 61 Moraga Way #9, Orinda “hoppin’ to it!” for you (925) 402-4411, www.careindeed.com Care Indeed, a well-known provider of home care serv- this year. We wish you ices, recently received its CAHSAH Certification as a true peace, love and joy. Home Care Aide Organization. The certification was May you have a safe and awarded in recognition of Care Indeed's efforts in provid- Michael from Doorstep Farmers delivers to Joe and ing the highest quality services. CAHSAH was estab- “Plumb Hoppy” Shirley Towbis' home in Orinda Photo Sophie Braccini lished in 1966 with a mission to promote quality home Holiday. Merry Christmas Doorstep Farmers Now Delivers to Lafayette and care and enhance the effectiveness of its members. Head Frog Mo Williams and Happy New Year! Orinda Mo’s Holiday saving specials: (925) 349-4568, www.doorstepfarmers.com Cloud 9 Organic Salon Re-Opens, Correction The organic fruit and vegetable delivery service started 1 Orinda Way, #3, Orinda  

 

 

two and a half years ago by Michael Wedgley has ex- (925) 258-9811, www.cloud9organictherapy.com $200 off $89 off $59 off panded delivery service from Lafayette to Orinda, and In our Dec. 5 issue we printed that Cloud 9’s owner was   
 
 
Any 
   
new faucet promises to include Moraga soon. Wedgley became in- Cindy Nguyen. The rightful owners are Alyssa Renteria 



or 

fixture terested in the distribution of local organic products at age and Leah Crane Kao. “We offer the finest non-toxic pol-   
  
  
installation 26, and decided to create Doorstep Farmers to allow any- ishes (there is no true organic nail polish designation), or- *1 coupon per service one to have access to great produce, whatever their income ganic soaks/scrubs/moisturizers and clients do indeed We Hop To It level or their mobility. “I’m working with a network of leave feeling relaxed and revived,” wrote Cloud 9 co- farmers all located in Contra Costa County,” he says. “The owner Crane Kao. “Furthermore, we exceed the sanitation Family-owned & serving purpose is to get people a great variety of fresh fruits and guidelines set forth by the California Board of Barbering Lamorinda since 1993 vegetables when they are in season and at their peak of and Cosmetology regarding our instrumentation. We offer nutritional value andWeWeWe taste, Hop Hop Hopwhile supportingTo ToTo It ItIt local farm- waxing services and are excited to announce that we are Plumb Hoppy ers.” The service is flexible, allowing clients to customize now a full service hair salon.” Gift Certificates their weekly basket online, prior to delivery. Orinda resi- available dent Shirly Towbis discovered Doorstep Farmers at the News from the three Chambers of Commerce Lafayette Health Fair, and immediately came on board. Lafayette (925) Towbis says they’ve eaten all of the persimmons, kale, Entrepreneur’s Club at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 20 in the 377-6600 pears, salads, oranges, etc, they’ve received – and enjoy Lafayette Chamber Conference Room. CA Lic 929641 www.LeapFrogPlumbing.com having it delivered to their doorstep. “It’s like Christmas Moraga once a week,” says Towbis’ husband, Joe. “And since The Chamber is accepting nominations for Business Per- we’ve started, I have lost weight.” The Orinda resident son of the Year. Names can be emailed to Kathe Nelson attributes this outcome to cooking soups more often. at [email protected]. A vote to select among the There are four box sizes, which include enough produce nominees is scheduled for January and the awards dinner to feed one to five people; delivery can be scheduled every will be in February. week or every other week. Bay Area Orinda BAD Mark your calendar for this luncheon tribute to Dick Heg- Les Trois Bisous – Joan Edelsohn Goes Online INC. Drainage, Inc. gie, first mayor of Orinda, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (510) 409-6141 Wednesday, Jan. 16 at the Orinda Country Club. Cost: $25 www.lestroisbisous.com per person, reservations online at Moraga lawyer Joan Edelsohn, whose passion for cooking Have You Checked Your www.orindachamber.org. drove her to compete in the California State Fair and who Crawlspace Lately? won numerous prizes for her jams and desserts, finally If you have a business brief to share, gave in to her friends who wanted to get more of her de- licious treats and started an online patissiere – a bakery please contact Sophie Braccini at • French Drains specializing in French pastry. She recently launched the [email protected] • Underfloor Drains • Downspout Systems Let us prepare your roof • Subdrain Systems • Subdrain Systems • Sump Pumps and raingutters • R Sump etaining Pumps Walls for seasons to come. • PavestoneR etaining Driveway Walls & Walkways New Work and Repairs Ask for All Types of Roofs and Gutters Shawn! • Pavestone Driveway & Walkways Clean/Screen, Roof Powerwashing. A General Engineering Contractor We do it all! Locally A General owned Engineering and OperatedContractor Locally owned and Operated Contractor LIC # 762208 Over Contractor LIC # 762208 20 Years 925•377•9209 Experience 925•377•9209 visit our website Lic #793315 www.bayareadrainage.com All Raingutters Systems, Inc. 925-381-7620 Wednesday, December 19, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: C1

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Learn the skills * Build Confidence Love the Game Join us as Lamorinda Soccer Club, one of the TOP clubs in Northern California; host its annual Winter Soccer Clinics Aidan Goltra #578 Photo provided . All girls and boys between the ages of 5 to 10 - born unning cross country requires Park 5k course Nov. 24. His finished 1000 meters to go I made my move,” August 1, 2001 – July 31, 2007 are Rpersonal integrity and en- with a time of 15:18, a Campolindo he explained. durance. It “takes a great deal of char- record on the state meet course. He is And though Goltra held his posi- invited to attend. No skills needed; acter,” said Campolindo cross country the first Campo male runner to take tion in the lead pack, he admitted he just join the fun! coach Chuck Woodrich, “and Aidan the State Title. was nervous. “[It was] daunting at DATES: Saturday and Sunday starting Saturday 1/ 5 /2013 – [Goltra] is a fine example of this.” Goltra remembers the race start- first. I believed that I belonged there, 2/10/ 2013 (see web site for times) Though only a junior at Campo, ing with a first fast mile. “By the sec- and that I could win,” he said. Registration: www.Lamorindasc.com Fee : $250.00 Goltra took the Division III state title ond mile, a lead pack had broken The win moved him onto the Re- in cross country on the Woodward away from the field, and with about gional meet in LA the following 2013 – 2014 Team tryouts for U7 – U12 Start January 2013! week. He decided at the last minute to compete and finished 20th overall Please visit www.Larmorindasc.com for dates and times!!! Boys’ Fall DFAL Awards and was the 10th best non-senior in the race. Cross Country Miramonte First Team Tyler Hanson The finish was humbling. “Al- Mark Tamminga though I had won state a few weeks ago, there is still another tier of com- Second Team Charlie Zamanian petition to master,” he said. Ariel Thomas Goltra has been running for most Acalanes First Team Michael Wang of his life. “[But] it wasn’t until the Keenan Byrne sixth grade that I actually began to Kyle Davis Mortgage Consultant/Owner/Partner Second Team Scott Lindsay take running seriously,” he said. That was the year Goltra, as a member of Lamorinda Resident Since 1995 Cameron Gaskell DRE License #01111347/NMLS #274107 team Pleasanton Heat, competed in a Campolindo First Team Aidan Goltra cross country race for the Junior Direct: 925-314-5299 Adam Hathaway Olympics in Raleigh. He place fourth [email protected] Second Team Walter Brennan in the 3 km race. Michael Peterson 319 Diablo Rd., Ste 103 • Danville • CA DRE Lic. # 01327738, NMLS#280803 Afterward, even though his junior Cameron Sun high didn’t offer cross country or RATES HAVE NEVER BEEN LOWER! Football Miramonte First Team Zati Williams track, he kept running on his own. Evan Epstein He joined the cross country team 30 YEAR FIXED RATE TO Marshall Deutz at Los Lomas for his freshman and (offense/defense) sophomore years before transferring $1,000,000! Jamie Howells to Campolindo. “Campo has a differ- Conor Bruen 3.875% /3.875% APR ent atmosphere. They have a great Second Team Griffin Schram team and I wanted to be the best I GREAT CONFORMING RATES! Ray Clark could be at this time in my life,” he Honorable Mention Drew Anderson said. Fixed Rates to $417,000 Fixed Rates to $625,500 Bennett Stehr Woodrich noted the program has RATE APR RATE APR Phil Hoxie a different approach to practice. “We 30 Year Fixed 3.375% 3.375% 3.500% 3.500% Jon McDonald do a lot more than just run, and our 15 Year Fixed 2.750% 2.750% 2.875% 2.875% Jamie Howells practice sessions take up considerable Campolindo First Team Brett Stephens time,” he explained, “[yet] he did not “PROVIDING PREMIER LOAN PRODUCTS AND SERVICE FROM Mason Windatt(offense/defense) miss a single practice session over the THE MOST EXPERIENCED AND SOLUTION-ORIENTED PROFESSIONALS IN YOUR COMMUNITY.” Justin Dunn (defense) course of the entire season. He truly Second Team C.J. Toohey (offense/defense) identifies himself as a runner and has Call 925-314-5299 for Today’s Quote! Greg Wiessler completely embraced the lifestyle.” Ilya Lopez Due to CIF rules, Goltra had to sit Wesley Brumbaugh out the first half of the season, a deci- Dexter Honens II REAL ESTATE BROKER Issac Christian sion that contributed to his success at Christian Antezana the state meet by saving his strongest Office: (925) 253-2148 Patrick Kalvass race efforts for later in the season. Cell: (510) 918-8911 ASSOCIATES Jack Davis Looking ahead, Goltra plans to Email: [email protected] REAL ESTATE Tyler Luckhurst compete in track and field this spring Serving clients, friends and family in your neighborhood since 1989. Honorable Mention Justin Dunn (offense) and looks forward to his senior sea- This is not a loan commitment, nor is it a guarantee of any kind. This comparison is based solely on estimated figures Nicky Aikawa and information available at the time of production. Interest rate is subject to borrower and property qualifying. son. He’s thought about running in Stonecastle Land and Home Financial, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Lender. Andrew Zolintakis college, but hasn’t made any definite (offense/defense) plans. Peter Golesorkhi Ryan Hooper Acalanes First Team Gabe Newman Tyler Supple Second Team Steve Main De Sean Johnson Buster Souza Peter Mitchell John Lauth Honorable Mention Kevin Camporeale Jack Burford Aaron Edwards Water Polo Miramonte Most Valuable Player Jack Fellner Outstanding Goalie Drew Holland First Team Tyler Kirchberg Charlie Wiser Second Team Clay Smudsky Nick Solit Honorable Mention Amin Anjedani Campolindo First Team Grant Sivesind Second Team Dylan Fara Spencer Tagg Honorable Mention Bradley Rochlin Acalanes First Team Tommy Bush Connor Reid Second Team Jacob Welcomer Honorable Mention Wyatt Goertler Page: C2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012 Pac 12 MOL Champions Magic U13 Girls Win Tourney Submitted by Paul Griessel Submitted by Greg Davis

Front row, from left: Mia Grillo, Lauren Van Stralen, Emily Smith, Samantha DeVecchi, Molly Ikeya, Keely Murphy; back row: Molly Davis, Annie Midthun, Jackie Nichols, Vanessa Vaisnor, Kate Minden, Holland McDonald, Kierra Krawec, Anya Li, Kaitlin DeVries, Coach Haris Obic Top row, from left: Joe Foster, Drew Davidson, Sean Lee, Jacob Griessel, Scott Ruegg, Jack Photo provided Lewis, Zachery Yu; bottom row: Kai Brothers, Marcus Erickson, Hayden Simon, Jack Brun, Owen Lewis, Fletcher Simon Photo provided he California Magic U13 girls were At the tournament’s end, head coach Haris he 3rd/4th grade Michigan Wolver- the same the weekend in November to earn Tcrowned champions of another soccer Obic said he was pleased with the results. "Our Tines are the Moraga Orinda the title. Eighteen teams competed in the tournament. The team finished first at the 5th kids love playing soccer and they train hard, Lafayette (MOL) flag football champions division this season. The Wolverines were Annual Juventus Coppa d'Oro tournament Dec. continue to learn and grow, and always play for the Pac 12 division. They won both a coached by Dwight Foster and Steve 8-9. The girls went undefeated over the two day with heart, so I'm never disappointed with any tough playoff game and the Super Bowl on Ruegg. tournament, outscoring their opponents 16-3. result,” he explained. Bentley Basketball Starts Strong U13 Magic Boys Earn Second Submitted by Clay Kallam Boonville, and stared down the Branson Bulls Place Finish in a 54-51 thriller. Submitted by Greg Davis Senior guard Nate Ellis was MVP of the tournament, and Rob Rafeh was named the top coach, but Bentley got solid performances up and down the lineup. “We’re much deeper than last year,” said Rafeh about his group, which lost just one starter to graduation. Ellis, a senior guard, is joined on the perimeter by sophomore Blake Kami, who steadily improved as a freshman starter last sea- son. Sophomore Josh Ross has “really improved defensively,” said Rafeh, “especially when it comes to team defense.” Malcolm DeFrantz started last year but the senior has yet to play this season due to a knee injury; he is expected back in January. A trio of juniors, Ian Kirby, Vaughn Arter- berry and Jack Coburn, will assume bigger roles Back row, from left: Nathan Laman-Oshiro, Alex Topping, Devon Martinez, Lucas Rodriguez, this season. Parent Coach Jim Jenkins, Aidan Jenkins, Oliver Feigin, Zach Flagg; front row: Cole Kelez, Nate Ellis Photo provided DeFrantz, who played on the varsity team Mason Larrick, Reider Martinsen, Danny Nelson, Tai Fox, David Lacayo Photo provided as a freshman, has seen the changes in the pro- he California Magic U13 Boys placed These first two wins set them up with a he Phoenix is on the rise: the Bentley gram since Rafeh took over last year. “Before, second at the 5th annual Juventus Coppa match up against the only other U13 boys un- men’s basketball team is coming off its basketball was not taken too seriously,” he said. T T d'Oro tournament on December 8-9. defeated team, Burlingame SC Blue. They lost best year ever, and started the 2012-13 season Now, however, Bentley is looking to build The boys started the tournament with an ex- 2-0, but brought home a runner's up trophy and with 10 straight victories, two tournament titles, on success. “We set a precedent for Bentley bas- citing game against Orchard Valley YSC a great tournament experience. and a signature win. ketball,” said DeFrantz, “and we’ve established Pumas, coming from behind to win 2-1. They Coach Jasko Begovic was very proud of the The Phoenix faced a perennial Division V that even though we may not be the most tal- then went on to play the San Carlos United Rip- results, particularly considering he could not at- power in the finals of the Redwood Classic in ented, we work the hardest.” tide, winning 3-0. tend the tournament due to being ill.

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Their ability to field and coach three teams is a distinct advantage. Because of this depth, Acalanes can easily fill in gaps left by graduating seniors. While the Dons graduated 13 out of 22 play- ers last season, head coach Paul Curtis rejects the idea of rebuilding. “We are able to alleviate rebuilding through a three team program that utilizes qualified and dedicated coaches [which] enables us to refill the roster with experienced, mature and dedi- cated players who are simply moving from one of our teams to a different one,” he said. From left: Trevor Martinho, Candie Del Valle, Jacqueline Guelfi, Cooper Swanson, Referee, Keai Miramonte hasn’t enjoyed the same luxury Lucasey, Jeremy Dunbar, Sam Gelmis, Fine Gumpert, Sam O’Donnell, Cameron Patera. as Acalanes. The team has faced challenges Photo provided with coaching consistency, rotating through he Campolindo JV Wrestling team teams, Campo earned several fourth place three coaches in three years. New head coach Tkicked off the 2012 season, attending finishes, along with top finishes from Cooper Javier Ayala-hil is optimistic about their season. the Valley Christian Tournament Dec. 1 in Swanson and Keai Lucasey in their respec- Although the record doesn’t reflect it, Ayala- Dublin. Competing against over 15 area tive weight classes. hil feels the team has been doing well and keep- Max Mirner (#10) ing games close. “At the end of the day you Rock Climber Earns International have to put the ball in the back of the net. We igh school soccer tryouts had barely con- have missed clear chances to come away with Distinction Hcluded when league play began at the be- wins, but the team is progressing tremendously,” ginning of December. Lamorinda teams faced he said. Submitted by Debbie Everton off against their rivals in the first week of DFAL The Mats showed their potential in their competition. In boys’ play, Acalanes came out Dec. 12 match-up against the tough, undefeated on top over both Lamorinda rivals, defeating Dons. Miramonte managed to hold the game Campolindo and Miramonte 4-0 and 5-1 respec- even at 1-1 going into halftime, but in the end, tively. Campo outplayed Miramonte 4-2 in their Acalanes’ Croze again led the team in goals and Dec. 7 match-up. assists to log a 5-1 win. The first game on Dec. 5 pitted reigning Ayala-hil hopes his team will improve DFAL champion Acalanes against 2011 NCS enough for the playoffs. “We have a clear goal champion Campolindo. The first half was slow to play as a unit and enjoy ourselves out on the with both teams alternating possession, with a field,” he said. few shots on goal that neither team could con- The teams play one more league game on vert. The game headed into halftime scoreless. Dec. 21 before the season resumes Jan. 9. Following the break, both teams came back to the field newly energized. Within five min- utes Acalanes scored twice. Junior Max Mirner Connor Everton Photo provided nabbed the first goal, scoring off a corner kick onnor Everton, a sophomore at Acalanes Zero Gravity in the fall of 2010. two minutes in. After a breakaway run down the CHigh School, competed in his first inter- Becoming the Pan American Champion right line senior Dan Glascock netted the ball national competition. He participated in the gives Everton an automatic berth to the Youth low into the left corner to make the score 2-0. Youth Pan American Championships for Rock World Championship, which is currently the Senior Ben Croze logged assists in both goals. Climbing in Santiago, Chile, Nov. 21-25. He re- highest level of competition for youth climbing, With momentum in their favor, Croze ceived a gold medal for his age group for sport for the next two years. scored off of a pass from junior Mark Helfrich climbing, a bronze medal for bouldering, and a He recently finished first place in the Male after a breakaway run by senior Graham Lind- bronze medal for Overall Champion. Everton Youth A category earning the title of Northern gren. began climbing competitively on a team called California/Nevada Regional Champion. Campo’s head coach Shane Carney noted the significance of the rapid-fire scoring. “(The) game was really decided by a six-minute span SMC Sevens Finishes Fourth in Nation in the second half where we gave up three goals Submitted by Tony Samaniego and lost one of our top performers due to injury,” he said. “It was a very unfortunate span of time.” The Don domination did not let up until the fourth and final goal was netted with a kick to the upper right corner by Helfrich. The last 20 minutes remained scoreless with the game end- ing at 4-0. This was the second win for Acalanes Michael Samaniego Photos David Lee against Campo in a week. The two teams played in a neutral non-conference tournament just four days prior. Carney admits the losses af- To date, Acalanes enjoys the top spot fected his team’s morale. “Losing twice right in the DFAL standings with a 4-0 out of the gate is definitely tough for us to record (8-0-0 overall). Campolindo take,” he explained, “but we really have to stands at 2-1-0 (6-2-0 overall) and take things into perspective in that we lost Miramonte follows with 1-2-0 (2-4-1 both games to Acalanes who is likely the overall). Photo provided SA Rugby hosted the Colle- against Navy. Ugiate National Championship The Gaels used finesse to out- of Seven's Rugby in College Station, score Navy 22-10 on Dec. 1. Texas the first weekend in December. Saint Mary’s then advanced to Last year, the Gaels finished fifth out the semifinals against Life College of the top 24 schools in the country of Atlanta. Life College won the and this year’s team looked to im- National Championships last year. prove on that record. Despite a tough effort, SMC fell SMC started their pool play 33-0. They lost the consolation Nov. 30, beating Western Washing- game against Delaware, earning ton, Bowling Green, and ending the them the fourth place finish. day with a win over Texas A&M. Saint Mary’s finished their Sev- Finishing the day 3-0 automatically ens season with a record of 22-5 put the Gaels into the quarterfinals overall. CALIFORNIA MAGIC SOCCER CLUB TRYOUTS Lamorinda Weekly BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 6-10 TRYOUTS IN JANUARY is an independent publication, produced by and for the residents of Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda, CA Contact us: Staff Writers: BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 11-14 TRYOUTS IN FEBRUARY Letters to the editor (max 350 words): Sophie Braccini; [email protected] [email protected] Cathy Tyson; [email protected] Sport events/stories/pictures: Laurie Snyder; [email protected] [email protected] Cathy Dausman, [email protected] Art, theater, community events: Sports Editor: Caitlin Graveson [email protected] [email protected] ALL ARE WELCOME Business news or business press releases: Teen Coach: Cynthia Brian; [email protected] [email protected] Please join us for an Informational Open House School stories/events: Food: Susie Iventosch; [email protected] [email protected] Contributing Writers: Andrea A. Firth, Conrad Wednesday, January 9th from 6:00 to 8:00pm General interest stories/Community Service: Bassett, Moya Stone, Rosylyn Aragones Stenzel, [email protected] Lucy Amaral, Michael Sakoda, Symon Tryzna, At the Lafayette Library (Community Room) Publishers/Owners: Andy and Wendy Scheck; Rebecca Eckland, Marissa Harnett, Lou Fancher, [email protected] Nick Marnill, Barry Hunau (cartoonist) [email protected] Photos:Tod Fierner, Doug Kohen, Editor: Lee Borrowman; Ohlen Alexander, Kevin Nguyen [email protected] Layout/Graphics: Andy Scheck, Amanda Griggs. Associate Editor: Jennifer Wake; Printed in CA. Register online at [email protected] Lamorinda Weekly, Advertising: 925-377-0977 P.O. Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570-6133 Wendy Scheck; [email protected] Phone: 925-377-0977; Fax: 1-800-690-8136; www.CalMagicSC.com Circulation: 26,200 printed copies; delivered to email: [email protected] homes & businesses in Lamorinda. www.lamorindaweekly.com Page: C4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012

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Lamorinda Weekly Volume 06 Issue 21 Wednesday, December 19, 2012

The Home Designer with Brandon Neff Cozy Fireplaces Bring ...read on page D6 Warmth to Chilly Winter Nights Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but these fireplaces are so delightful ... By Cathy Tyson rom a senior apartment to stately hillside estate to an historic ranch home, and beyond, it’s not unusual to own a fireplace – or two – in this Fneck of the woods. In a completely random sampling of fireplace styles, Lamorinda residents opened their doors to share their unique fireplaces from kiva style, to a pellet stove, to a see-through model that truly brings the outdoors in. About six years ago, Ed and Amie Kangeter purchased an historic 1930s home in Orinda. Kangeter was smitten when she saw the home’s massive fire- place with its distinctive copper hood. Bringing back the shine was a major workout after years of oxidation; the copper had been seen better days, sporting a weathered patina when they bought the house. Rolls of paper towels and some elbow grease brought back the original youthful, but now 80-year-old sheen. The new owners replaced the terra cotta tile mantel and brick along the sides with opalescent tile, giving it a more contemporary look. “It’s kind of ironic, since we are in the scrap metal business, we know how valuable copper is,” says Kangeter. “We tried to respect the continuity of the Copper fireplace at the Kangeter home. Photos Cathy Tyson home, but have done some major updates.” Along with the copper fireplace, there’s a kiva or “bee hive” round fireplace in a corner of what they call the Spanish room. This one gets a fair amount of use, since that room can be a little chilly. Son Louie Kangeter, 13, proudly re- ports, “I’m the official fire guy. My parentstrust me.” Regardless of who lights it, Louie, his little brother and sister, mom, dad and especially the dog really enjoy a warm fire on winter evenings. Moraga homeowners Curtis and Shannon Hamm are thrilled with the Whitfield pellet stove in their family room, installed as part of a remodel in 1993. Standing in front of it is like being near a hair dryer blowing out warm air. They estimate they use up to 1.25 tons of pellets per year, the equivalent of burning one 40-pound bag every two days. The pellets are made of leftover wood residue from furniture manufacturing and sawdust from lumber produc- tion that is dried and compressed into small pellet-sized bits.

...continued on page D4

Kiva style, Kangeter family. Page: D2 OUR HOMES Wed., December 19, 2012 VLATKA BATHGATE Lamorinda Home Sales recorded City Last reported: LOWEST AMOUNT: HIGHEST AMOUNT: LAFAYETTE 17 $167,000 $2,000,500 IF I HAD A BUYER FOR YOUR MORAGA 9 $165,000 $1,136,500 ORINDA 6 $795,000 $1,455,000 HOME WOULD YOU SELL IT? Home sales are compiled by Cal REsource, an Oakland real estate information company. Sale prices are computed from the county transfer tax in- formation shown on the deeds that record at close of escrow and are published five to eight weeks after such recording. This information is obtained Call me at 925 597 1573 from public county records and is provided to us by California REsource. Neither Cal REsource nor this publication are liable for errors or omissions. [email protected] LAFAYETTE DRE#01390784 1051 Aileen Street, $167,000, 1584 SqFt, 1938 YrBlt, 11-15-12 1059 Aileen Street, $333,500, 2451 SqFt, 1954 YrBlt, 11-15-12 634 Augustine Lane, $946,000, 4 Bdrms, 2380 SqFt, 1956 YrBlt, 11-9-12 3347 Beechwood Drive, $1,060,000, 3 Bdrms, 1422 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 11-7-12; Previous Sale: $1,065,000, 07-31-07 3471 Black Hawk Road, $1,510,000, 4 Bdrms, 2548 SqFt, 1959 YrBlt, 11-15-12 3 Butler Drive, $1,544,000, 4 Bdrms, 3121 SqFt, 1957 YrBlt, 11-9-12; Previous Sale: $1,725,000, 03-20-08 19 Del Rio Court, $650,000, 4 Bdrms, 1900 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 11-19-12; Previous Sale: $278,000, 05-18-93 609 Murray Lane, $1,500,000, 4 Bdrms, 3067 SqFt, 1990 YrBlt, 11-9-12; Thank you Previous Sale: $1,500,000, 11-09-12 3646 Robertson Road, $500,000, 3 Bdrms, 1655 SqFt, 1959 YrBlt, 11-16-12 24 Ruth Court, $2,000,500, 4 Bdrms, 3857 SqFt, 2006 YrBlt, 11-13-12; Previous Sale: $320,000, 02-18-05 so much for all the referrals 3195 Stanley Boulevard, $899,000, 4 Bdrms, 2435 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 11-16-12; Previous Sale: $345,000, 03-10-00 1044 Stuart Street, $333,500, 1753 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 11-15-12 and business this year. 1303 Summit Road, $1,550,000, 4 Bdrms, 3723 SqFt, 1980 YrBlt, 11-16-12; Previous Sale: $1,410,000, 07-23-04 1321 Sunset Loop, $569,000, 3 Bdrms, 1377 SqFt, 1949 YrBlt, 11-9-12; It was a wonderful year. Previous Sale: $550,000, 03-05-10 1061 Via Alta, $975,000, 4 Bdrms, 2760 SqFt, 1965 YrBlt, 11-9-12; Previous Sale: $107,500, 08-15-74 Wishing you a Happy, Healthy 1063 Via Roble, $1,150,000, 4 Bdrms, 3217 SqFt, 1956 YrBlt, 11-6-12; Previous Sale: $789,000, 03-24-98 and Prosperous 2013. 2940 Windtree Court, $1,100,000, 4 Bdrms, 3014 SqFt, 1982 YrBlt, 11-9-12; Previous Sale: $269,000, 12-01-82 MORAGA 2079 Ascot Drive #140, $165,000, 1 Bdrms, 713 SqFt, 1971 YrBlt, 11-16-12; Previous Sale: $331,000, 05-27-05 1631 Camino Pablo, $885,000, 5 Bdrms, 2817 SqFt, 1968 YrBlt, 11-6-12 115 Cypress Point Way, $549,000, 2 Bdrms, 1262 SqFt, 1973 YrBlt, 11-16-12; Previous Sale: $480,000, 03-09-10 Happy 373 Donald Drive, $965,000, 4 Bdrms, 2050 SqFt, 1970 YrBlt, 11-15-12 4 El Paraiso Court, $1,099,000, 5 Bdrms, 3108 SqFt, 1960 YrBlt, 11-8-12 15 Inverleith Terrace, $820,000, 3 Bdrms, 1863 SqFt, 1973 YrBlt, 11-15-12; Previous Sale: $13,000, 09-27-72 160 Sandringham Drive #S, $1,160,000, 5 Bdrms, 2435 SqFt, 1977 YrBlt, 11-6-12; Previous Sale: $890,000, 08-31-01 15 Silvia Court, $1,136,500, 5 Bdrms, 3095 SqFt, 1967 YrBlt, 11-15-12; Holidays! Previous Sale: $350,000, 08-09-88 491 Woodminster Drive, $485,000, 3 Bdrms, 1572 SqFt, 1974 YrBlt, 11-14-12; Previous Sale: $625,000, 04-28-06 VLATKA CAN HELP YOU WITH BUYING OR SELLING YOUR HOME. ... continued on page D7 WWW.BESTLAMORINDAHOMES.COM Lamorinda Foreclosures recorded LAFAYETTE ©2012 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. DRE License # 01908304 Woodview Drive, 94549, Woodview Drive Trust, 11-19-12, $1,055,000, 3163 sf, 4 bd “Your trusted Agent with the right tools for smarter decisions”

Lic.: #611120 & Landscaping Happy Holidays! Family owned in Moraga since 1987 Your friendly neighborhood arborists Darren and Lew Edwards Here’s to a season filled Winter Pruning with warmth, comfort Winter is the best time to start pruning deciduous plants and trees, such as maples, shrubs, roses, most fruit trees and most of all your Monterey pines. They go dormant in the winter and good cheer and some lose their leaves. Deciduous plants are best pruned in the winter because that’s Chad Morrison when they’re dormant and less prone to disease. Direct: Before you start hacking away at your yard, you may want to call in a professional Arborist from Advance Tree Service to give you their advice on what should be done, the proper (925) 253-4650 handling during pruning is essential to ensure a healthy future for your trees and shrubs. Mobile: So don’t wait until it’s too late, call your local Arborist at (925) 330-1416 Advance Tree Service and Landscaping to help make DRE# 01905614 your yard its very best. Advance Tree Service Your Authority on Trees and Landscape. 925-376-6528 [email protected] www.advancetree.com Follow us on Twitter (advancetree) and like us on Face Book [email protected] • www.sellinglamorinda.com (ADVANCETREESERVICEANDLANDSCAPINGINC.) ©2012 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. DRE License # 01908304

NEW L ISTING IN ORINDA-PENDING SALE!

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Paul & Virginia Ratto 925.998.9501 [email protected] www.Varni-Ratto.com A Member Of Real Living Page: D4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Cozy Fireplaces ...continued from page D1 African adventures. In 1982, the prior owner installed the striking black granite fireplace as well as the built- in TV and audio niche in rich dark stained cherry. The see-through fireplace, also clad in black gran- ite in the airy living room, is surrounded by windows that lead to the generous dining room. Schlinkert, who teaches art, added an array of plants along with colorful paint and furnishings to enliven the space. “The cool part is, when you look outside and the azal- eas and rhododendrons are blooming, it’s magnifi- cent,” she says. Semi-empty nesters, Jill and Jim Larsen have lived in Orinda for years, oldest kids Molly and Sam are in college with just their youngest child, Hank, at Very efficient pellet stove at the Hamm's house. home. When they decided to remodel about six years Pellets burn cleaner and more efficiently than ago, the one detail they were sure about was what kind conventional logs, and leave less ash to clean up. Their of fireplace they wanted. They were inspired by the model has a handy automatic pellet feeder and ad- substantial rustic fireplace with stone hearth at their justable blower to control the temperature, and on top favorite Gualala restaurant, St. Orres, and recreated it sits a whale-shaped container that, when filled with as a focal point in their remodeled living room. water and heated, pushes steam out of its blowhole – Dramatic window wall surrounding the Schlinkert's an instant humidifier. With a large comfy couch, big living room fireplace. screen TV and built-in bookcases, their family room couldn’t be more inviting. Perched on a hilltop off of Reliez Road in Lafayette is the spacious dramatic home of Meggin and Bill Schlinkert. The couple and their four grown children love to travel, and Schlinkert calls her family room “Ode to Africa” in homage to the hand-carved wooden animals the kids brought back from their

Sailfish atop the Schlinkert's famlily room fireplace. Classic stone fireplace at the Larsen home. Wed., Dec. 19, 2012 OUR HOMES Page: D5 HAPPY

Finally, a Moraga couple was looking for added HOLIDAYS warmth at their senior care facility. Their daughter was able to purchase an electric fireplace heater that re- minded her of an old TV set, similar to a piece of fur- ... Lamorinda and a big niture. They come in three sizes to accommodate a variety of rooms. The pair loves to stretch out in com- THANK YOU fortable chairs and listen to audio-books on a CD for your business! player and not have the bother of wood, smoke, bring- ing in a gas line or cleaning out ashes. They just plug It has been my pleasure to it in and go, with zero emissions or pollutants – and since it’s portable, they can create a cozy spot wherever work with you this year. it’s needed. What better way to take the chill off a cold winter I am grateful for your support Lana Fitzpatrick, night than cozying up to a crackling fire? and appreciate your referrals! Top 100 Realtor A Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2013 To All Lana’s sales in 2012 159 Lombardy, Orinda 1,555,000 (buyer) 62 Moraga Via, Orinda 920,000 (buyer) 8 Beaconsfield Ct., Orinda 910,000 (buyer) 193 Holly, Orinda 699,000 (listing) 57 Corte Del Sol, Moraga 1,250,000 (listing sold off market, over list) 131 Walford, Moraga 1,135,000 (buyer) 101 Brookline, Moraga 625,000 (buyer) Jack Wuerth enjoys his electric fireplace. 114 Brookline, Moraga (lease) 1903 Lakeshire, Walnut Creek, 975,000 (buyer) 2307 Chesterton, Walnut Creek 860,000 (buyer) 1871 Lamplight Ct., Walnut Creek 525,000 (buyer) 1400 Ptarmigan #9, Walnut Creek 115,000 1367 Silverwood, Danville 757,000 (buyer) 527 Silver Oak, Danville (lease) Lana Fitzpatrick Mobile: (925) 872-4660 Email: [email protected] www.lanafitzpatrick.com DRE # 01805218

Fireplace in the Schlinkert's breakfast room. ©2012 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. DRE License # 01908304 Page: D6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, December 19, 2012

t’s the holidays, and chances are cial to their stay, and I start with the their ipad - am I right? Iyour home may be the outpost for bed. Nothing pampers your guests In addition to orienting your a traveler, or two. Hopes are high for more than freshly washed sheets and lodger with the lay of the room, I have a joyful and peaceful time had by all, fluffy down pillows. The simplicity of a few items I always place by the bed so take my advice and get that guest good bedding goes a long way toward for my guests - these are my prefer- room ready. Creating a five star expe- saying, "Welcome home." ence, and I encourage you to come up rience for your guests doesn't take a Add a touch of lavender to the with a few of your own. For starters, lot of money, but rather, it takes cre- sheets either in the wash, or by using keep a glass handy and drinking water ativity, effort and some imagination. scented dryer sheets - try Mrs. Meyers in an interesting flask or bottle, a vase What do all great guest rooms - a seductively simple, aromatherapy with fresh flowers in one color have in common? Comfort. Style. sleep inducer. Always keep an extra (mandatory!), a pad of paper and a Luxury. Yes, and a few touches that blanket handy, and a change of sheets pen, an unscented candle (no one likes Just a few amenities make your friends and family feel pampered make your guests feel spoiled. available and at the ready. Extra that Strawberry Shortcake variety) Photo courtesy A. Nisbet What makes a guest room great points for a feather bed to pad the mat- and a proper reading light. are the thoughtful items that show tress. Heaven. Trust me, even the most modest your friends and family who stay there Hit List. Stocking the nightstand with accommodations will shine when ac- color than your own if sharing the just how much you care about them the essentials is essential. Making companied by a few luxury touches. bathroom – in their room to avoid and the time they spend in your home. your guests feel comfortable is the Step up the pampering with a confusion. To paraphrase the eccentric and flinty key, and anticipating a few of their couple of good reads (a juicy paper- Lastly, maybe most importantly, DianaVreeland, it takes just as much needs will make everyone's visit back or travel book), a deck of cards put out extra toilet paper - enough said energy to create an ugly space as it (theirs and yours), more enjoyable. and a local map or guide outlining a about that. does to create something wonderful. There's nothing worse than being few sites you recommend in the area. I often say that life is short - Which do you prefer? woken up in the middle of the night by If this all sounds a bit too Martha, get fleeting and ignored by most. Sharing Bedtime Stories. When I have guests a voyager in search of a box of over it. This is your chance to open beautiful moments and providing I always try and bring something spe- Kleenex, or an extra outlet to plug in your home to the people you care comfort to those that you care about is about in a gesture of solemn generos- your legacy. You have a choice to ei- ity. I promise that in return you'll re- ther go through your life like the ceive not only high praise from your masses, or to create your own experi- guests, but the joy that comes from ence for yourself and those you love - providing a taste of gracious living - choose wisely. it may even soothe a few savage beasts around the holidays! Can I get an Amen? Design Is In The Details. In addition to the bedroom, take a look around the bathroom they'll be using - a close look around. Now is the time swap out that moldy shower curtain and polish up those dingy tiles - you're not run- ning the Bates Motel, so step it up, people. Keep an extra toothbrush, razor and hair dryer within reach - travelers tend to forget the simple things, and Brandon Neff is a Bay Area based your thoughtfulness will not go unno- Interior Designer. He can be reached Fresh sheets and an extra blanket make for a welcoming guest room. ticed. Place your guest's shower and at BrandonNeffDesign.com or at Photo courtesy Brandon Neff Design hand towels out – I suggest a different [email protected]. Wednesday, December 19, 2012 925-377-0977 www.lamorindaweekly.com OUR HOMES LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: D7

ASK CYNTHIA: Reader Requests Mushrooms Hey Cynthia! What do you know about collecting wild mushrooms? With Lamorinda Home Sales recorded the recent rains, we have ‘shrooms springing up everywhere ...continued from Page D2 and we are wondering if they are edible? ORINDA Appreciate your knowledge. Matthew 50 Donna Maria Way, $1,250,000, 4 Bdrms, 2790 SqFt, 1951 YrBlt, 11-8-12; Previous Sale: $407,000, 08-29-96 3 Owl Hill Court, $795,000, 3 Bdrms, 1519 SqFt, 1956 YrBlt, 11-7-12; Hey Mathew: Previous Sale: $44,500, 08-25-71 Up until about 15 years ago I would have regaled readers 31 Parklane Drive, $1,566,000, 4 Bdrms, 2594 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 11-6-12; with my fungi foraging forte since I regularly plucked Previous Sale: $1,400,000, 10-05-07 Portobello’s, pinkies, shaggy manes, shitake, puffballs, 70 Rheem Boulevard, $958,000, 3 Bdrms, 1909 SqFt, 1954 YrBlt, 11-9-12; horn of plenty, and chicken mushrooms from pastures, Previous Sale: $730,000, 06-02-04 trees, and grassy knolls. I salivate at the memory of these 29 Van Ripper Lane, $830,000, 3 Bdrms, 1428 SqFt, 1951 YrBlt, 11-9-12 sublime delicacies gently sautéed in garlic, wine, and 120 Via Floreado, $1,455,000, 5 Bdrms, 3482 SqFt, 1956 YrBlt, 11-14-12; parsley smothering our Sunday supper entrees! Then a Previous Sale: $900,000, 05-05-99 knowledgeable ol’timer near our ranch died from eating a poisonous champignon gathered on his property. My identification confidence disappeared and I now limit my mushroom stalking to farmer’s markets. If you are considering becoming a forager, remem- ber to never eat any plant, berry, leaf, or seed without being 100 percent certain that it is edible. Even safe mushrooms may cause an allergic reaction in some in- dividuals and there are many “look a likes” that are toxic Happy Holidays! and/or deadly. I call the poisonous fungi toadstools. In France, we used to bring suspect champignons to the nearest pharmacy for positive identification. I wish pharmacists in the U.S. possessed this training! There are several good books on wild mushrooms, however, your better bet would be to study mycology, Ranked #1 East Bay Real Estate Company and the best bet would be to join a Mycological Society. There is one in San Francisco with a myriad of mush- room activities during the September through May growing season. Visit http://www.mssf.org/. Be Safe! Happy Hunting and Bon Appetite!

Cynthia

©2012 Cynthia Brian The Goddess Gardener [email protected] www.GoddessGardener.com DRE# 1835783 I am available as a speaker, designer, and consultant. With interest rates at record lows, and local home values now on Cynthia will answer one or more questions every other the rise again, it’s the best time in years to make your move. issue as space allows. Email your comments or ques- Call Troy at (925) 550-2353 or visit www.Lamorinda.net tions to [email protected] Lamorinda’s Leading Independent Real Estate Firm.

ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA THE VILLAGE ASSOCIATES: Ashley Battersby Patricia Battersby Joan Cleveland Shannon Conner 55 Oak Road 50 Camino Don Miguel 40 Dos Osos 270 Camino Sobrante Joan Eggers Build your dream home on this Special Country Club location amidst Incredible Orinda, San Pablo Dam, Mt. Chic, mid-century modern in best OCC Linda Ehrich gorgeous oak studded lot with views expensive homes. Lush setting with Diablo views + abundance of nature location. Beautifully remodeled 3bd/2ba of the hills. Terrific neighborhood of building site knoll and towering oaks, surrounds this supersized parcel features vaulted ceilings, gourmet kit. Joan Evans filtered views & total privacy. bordering EBMUD land. Exceptional w/built in ofc level out to private patio & impressive homes close to town. play area; spacious flat yard w/terraced Linda S Friedman Utilities/sewer at street. beauty. Once in a lifetime opportunity flower beds & view deck. Offered at $219,000 Offered at $545,000 raw land sale. Offered at $545,000 Offered at $999,000 Marianne Greene ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA Dexter Honens II Anne Knight Susan Zeh Layng Art Lehman Charles Levine April Matthews Pending Pending/ Show for Back Ups 81 Van Ripper Lane 71 Camino Don Miguel 65 La Espiral 60 Coachwood Terrace Karen Murphy Great 4bd/ 3.5ba rancher on one of Beautifully renovated trad. charmer on Updated 4bd/4ba w/beautiful custom An Estate in prime location. 5bd/4.5ba, Ben Olsen the best Orinda streets. Great price priv. lane in heart of OCC. Custom detail features & amenities. Very well maintained. pool/spa, apx. 6000 sq ft on apx. 6.54 Sue Olsen too - move right in or remodel. throughout - fabulous redone kitchen, Majestic setting, lovely gardens, new acres. Fabulous stone walled gardens, gorgeous mstr ste, formal LR & inviting pool + views/ privacy, fully fenced. many fruit trees. Reflects Orinda living at Tara Rochlin FR. Lovely lvl garden w/ expansive brick Tuscany ambiance, European flair. its best. patio + outdoor fireplace. Jaime Roder Offered at $2,195,000 Offered at $2,495,000 Offered at $1,250,000 Offered at $1,285,000 Altie Schmitt LAFAYETTE OAKLAND PLEASANT HILL WALNUT CREEK Judy Schoenrock Ann Sharf Molly Smith Jeff Snell Lynda Snell New Listing New Listing Clark Thompson 1690 Reliez Valley Rd. 4226 Terrace Street 220 Gregory Lane 3706 Waterford Lane Angie Evans Traxinger Fab 1+ acre ridgeline property w/ Adorable remodeled 2bd/1.5ba bungalow 2bd/1ba major fixer on .21 acre lot that Gorgeous Traditional 4bd/3.5ba Northgate spectacular views of Mt. Diablo etc. walking distance to Piedmont Ave. w/ hard- needs lots of TLC but real possibilities. home. Many upgrades! New carpet, paint, re- Ignacio Vega Paved driveway to building site wood floors, open kitchen/ family room, Bring your contractor and investor. Good finished hdwd flrs. Huge eat-in kit/FR. For- Terri Bates Walker w/utilities & sewer at property. Includes formal living/dining rooms, great storage, floor plan and hardwood floors. Price mal dining & LR. Professionally landscaped preliminary plans for 4900+ sq ft home. & level grassy backyard. Walkscore of 94! includes separate .23 acre lot. back yard. Grand master w/adjoining den. Ann Ward Offered at $650,000 Offered at $579,000 Offered at $475,000 Offered at $1,370,000 Dan Weil Margaret Zucker Visit www.villageassociates.com to see our weekly online previews. Click on Sunday Open House Friday after 5 PM for Open House listings

93 Moraga Way, Suite 103 Orinda, CA 94563 ASSOCIATES (925) 254-0505 or 1-866-856-VARE REAL ESTATE