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Volume 02; Issue 14 Food, drinks, music, prizes Moraga Shopping Center • 925-376-7500

Art & Wine Pear Festival Restaurant Tour See Photos Andy Scheck pages September 20 & 21 18 & 19 By Cathy Tyson Detour on Mt. D. for the A & W

this week The Crush is On By Andrea A. Firth Council Candidates ave Parker turns and waves his hand high Vineyards, has grown consistently over the past their wine. “In 2007, we ended up picking about 12 Dabove the row of grapevines behind him in re- three years. tons of grapes and making close to 600 cases,” states Speak Out on Civic sponse to the sounds of his daughter who is yelling This is the tenth lot that Parker has harvested in Parker “This year, I've planned for about 14 tons and goodbye as she departs for kindergarten. Ali knows the past eleven days. Parker picked lots of Zinfandel about 700 cases, but so far, yields have been coming Pride, Participatory just where to position herself on the driveway so that and Sauvignon Blanc grapes in late August. His first in so low that we may end up a bit short of that esti- her father can see her from where he is perched up harvests in Moraga were at the start of September: mate.” Democracy and the on the hill between two long rows of vines. They ex- three lots of Pinot Noir grapes from the backyards ... continued on page 18 Spirit of Volunteerism change a few secret hand signals, and she heads off of local vineyard owners who have Parker produce Page 2, 3 and 4 to Rheem Elementary School down the street from their home. Advertising The Making of the President Although Dave and his colleague Mike have New Listing Just Sold been picking grapes—today it’s Voignier—since the 38 Arroyo, Moraga 769 Augusta Dr, Moraga Page 7 break of dawn and they face another four or five hours of picking to complete the harvest, he is re- laxed. Parker is dressed comfortably in shorts and sweatshirt and has a few days facial stubble—a winegrower’s uniform. Ali and her sister Jessalyn were out helping him to pick earlier, and he plans to • Outstanding views • Moraga Country Club Steve Smith take a tray of the sweet, marble-sized green grapes (925) 323-4151 to Ali’s class for a taste test later that day. This in- • Walk to schools • On the golf course termingling of work and family life suits Parker • 4 bedroom 2.5 bath • 3 bedroom 2.5 bath • Call for price • $1,275,000 whose commercial wine making venture, Parkmon REAL ESTATE www.obeo.com/stevesmith e-mail [email protected] 93 Moraga Way, Orinda Lamorinda Schools Ace API Page 14 School Bus Safety – Motorists Must Look Around, Slow Down & Stop By Jean Follmer Program Manager Juliet Hansen. However, many If you do get caught behind the bus, it’s im- kids are running to catch the bus and are crossing portant to remain calm and accept the fact that streets without looking in the process. In the af- your drive will likely take a bit longer. In each ternoon, drivers physically get out of their buses to Lamorinda community, there have been cases of help children cross the street. According to the drivers cutting off buses and passing stopped U.S. Department of Transportation, pedestrian ac- buses that have their flashing red lights on. Gary cidents account for two-thirds of school bus-re- Hein, Lead Driver for Durham School Services Town News 2,3,4,6 lated fatalities. said the worst red light runner streets are: Green City Offices 2 TSAC Gets to Work 3 Lafayette Reliez Valley Road from Grayson to Pleasant Hill and Orinda Seeks PDA 4 Pleasant Hill Road from Highway 24 to Olympic Boulevard Lamorinda Reads 5 Moraga Moraga Road from Rheem Boulevard to St. Mary’s Road and Mayor Lobbies the State 6 Rheem Boulevard between Moraga Road and Glorietta Smart Discipline 8 Boulevard Frantic? 9 hen school starts, the school buses are Orinda Anywhere on Miner Road and Anywhere on Overhill Road Letters to the Editor 10 Wback on the roads. This often results in a Public Forum 11 slower commute and the frustrating realization ... continued on page 9 Lamorinda Real Estate 12 that an earlier departure may be necessary to “beat Rancho Laguna II 12 the bus” in order to arrive at destinations on time. Mailed to 24,600 homes and businesses in Lamorinda. Business 13 If you do happen to “beat the bus” on weekday return to: Lamorinda Weekly • P.O. Box 6133 • Moraga, CA 94570 PRSRT STD Schools 14,15,16 mornings, the Lamorinda School Bus Program U.S.POSTAGE Local Children's Authors 16 (LSBP) still urges you to use caution on the roads. PAID Calendar, SMC Happenings 17 “Even when the bus isn’t there (at the stop), we AD-VANTAGE Sports 21,22,23 have kids along the road waiting for buses and Cougars on a Roll 21 drivers need to be careful. In the morning, kids Classifieds 22 are crossing the street unassisted, so that’s a vul- HOW TO CONTACT US 22 nerable point. We try to encourage the kids to ar- Shop Moraga 24 rive (at the bus stop) 5 minutes early,” said LSBP LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 2 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 Lamorinda Community Calendar, Notes, News Lafayette Calendar When buying or selling a City Council 7pm home, begin with Lafayette’s “Lafayette’s Natural Resource...” Community Center, Manzanita Room Natural Resource, Dana 500 St Mary’s Road Green, for all your real estate Monday, September 22 needs. Call today for a Planning Comm. 7pm complimentary staging Community Center, Manzanita Room and market analysis of 500 St Mary’s Road your home! Thursday, September 18 Dana H. Green Thursday, September 30 (925) 339-1918 Design Review 7pm [email protected] Community Center, Manzanita Room www.DanaGreenTeam.com 500 St Mary’s Road Tuesday, September 23 Candidates Speak Out on Civic Pride jtÜx Wxá|zÇá Park, Trails, Rec. 7pm By Cathy Tyson Y|Çx ]xãxÄÜç á|Çvx DLJJ Community Center andidates for the upcoming ample – without the years of service Club. Our businesspeople, through 500 St Mary’s Road City Council election were of members of the Parks, Trails and the Chamber of Commerce sustain • Custom Designed Jewelry C • Remodel Heirloom Jewelry Wednesday, October 8 asked to comment on how residents, Recreation Commission, we would a vibrant, friendly business commu- businesses or government contribute not have the trail system and recre- nity.” • Expert Repair Senior Services 3:30pm • Appraisals to civic pride in Lafayette. The ational facilities we have now.” He sees room for improve- Community Center, Alder Room • Pearls Restrung 50% off question was posed via e-mail for To summarize, Anduri notes, ment in city services, “We must en- 500 St Mary’s Road Tues 12-5 Wed-Sat 10-5 Watch Battery Thursday, September 25 fairness. The candidates touched on “When we look around our city and sure that we can be proud of our Now $5, Reg $10 a range of answers, but a recurring consider the many disparate ele- infrastructure. Right now 15% of 1 watch battery per person. Exp. 10/15/08. check online: 3416 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette Usually installed while you wait. theme was volunteerism. ments, large and small, that come to- our residents live on failed roads.” “The Forge” 283-2988 www.waredesigns.com W/coupon. Restrictions apply. Town of Lafayette: Current City Council Member gether to give us our sense of Froymovich would like to see a dif- http://www.ci.lafayette.ca.us Carl Anduri noted that, “What sets community and civic pride, the es- ferent approach to City planning, start planning it that way, instead of government all contribute to City Lafayette apart is the volunteer spirit sential ingredient is clear – residents “When the Council pushes ABAG deferring to cookie-cutter planning pride.” She believes a variety of Chamber of Commerce: of its residents. An incredible num- who have cared enough to con- recommendations on us, we are from a regional organization.” dedicated individuals who donate http://www.lafayettechamber.org ber of people volunteer their time, tribute their time.” jeopardizing our unique character. Incumbent Carol Federighi their time to school boards, parent energy and expertise to help others Challenger Gabriel Froy- We do not need to forcibly cram opines that “together we make a dif- clubs, the Arts and Science Founda- Candidates and to make Lafayette a better place movich noted that it’s easy to be more and more residents into our al- ference,” referring to the many indi- tion, play a part. In addition, “A tire- Night in which to live.” He goes on to note proud of Lafayette. “We are a vi- ready congested downtown area.” viduals that help make the city less corps of community volunteers the beneficial impact of parents sup- brant city, but still know our neigh- Froymovich sees Lafayette as a spe- vibrant. “Bumper stickers all over raised over $13 million dollars for Monday, October 6, porting schools, youth programs, bors and local merchants. Our cial community, “That’s why we town proclaim ‘Love Lafayette.’ our new Lafayette Library and 7:30 p.m. drivers for seniors, the faith com- residents volunteer with the city and live here and why we take such Lafayette is a volunteer community, Learning Center.” Lafayette munity and service clubs. “One ex- run organizations like the Rotary pride in our small city. We should whose residents, businesses and ... continued on page 6 Community Center, lic agencies must meet criteria in washing their vehicles. ing environmental issues, especially 500 Saint Mary’s Rd. City Offices Officially Green four categories: waste reduction, Following the completion of since our federal government is not By Cathy Tyson pollution prevention, energy conser- the lengthy list of requirements, au- adequately addressing them. Now vation and water conservation. dits by P G & E, EBMUD and the that the Lafayette City Offices are “For example the city can- Solid Waste Authority personnel certified green, they can truly “walk celled its contract for bottled water were required to obtain certification. the talk” as they move forward and with Alhambra – saving money and “There is a strong role for promote sustainability in the com- reducing lots of plastic bottle waste. local government to play in address- munity,” said Petersen. Car burglary, 9/07/08 An unknown Now employees drink tap water via suspect broke into a Lucille Lane a Britta pitcher,” noted Petersen. FINE BEDDING & GIFTS locked car and took a satellite radio The City Offices also uses 100% Japanese style & comfort valued at approximately $400. post consumer content recycled Hours : Mon-Sat 10-6pm, Sun: 12pm-5pm paper, reduces paper waste in cre- Fountains 15% Cranky neighbor, 9/6/08 A pick-up ative ways, has switched over to a OFF truck stopped by the open door of green cleaning product, uses energy neighbors van which was parked on star rated computers and printers, the street. Driver allegedly flipped and has a green purchasing policy, off the occupants of the van and among other initiatives. Petersen drove quickly onto his nearby prop- also worked with the police (who Futons & Frames • Tatami Platforms and Mats Custom Comforter Covers • Unique Japanese Gifts erty on Lucille Lane. When police Janneke Petersen, summer intern extraordinaire Photo provided share the building) to find a more arrived the alleged hand gesturer 961-A MORAGA RD. LAFAYETTE • 925-299-0882 • sugi-store.com environmentally sound way of claimed he never flipped anyone t took a fair amount of work, a had the simple and effective idea to off. Not surprisingly, there is an on- Idedicated college student intern, get a dish rack to dry lunch dishes going dispute between these neigh- Janneke Petersen, and a willing prop- on to reduce paper towel waste from bors. erty manager, but the result was drying. There were already a num- Over 250 Bikes in Stock! worth it: the Lafayette City offices are ber of things the city was doing lo- Door jam, 9/5/08 An Ethan Court now officially certified Green by the cally for the environment – it just resident was sitting in his den in the Bay Area Green Business Program. made sense for the government of- very early morning hours, when he “We thought that if the City fices themselves to be green.” heard a loud bang at the front door. were going to encourage Lafayette Because the city rents space Shocked homeowner yelled, businesses to go green, we should for their offices in Desco Plaza, col- “Hey!” and saw an unknown car set the example,” said Community laboration with Terry Turner, the drive away. A portion of the door Development Director Ann property manager, was vital. “It frame was forced off the deadbolt, Merideth. “Janneke did all the work would be impossible to do this with- estimated damage $300. At- and she did a terrific job.” out him. He was great to work with. tempted breaking, but not entering? Petersen, a senior this year, is For example one of the requirements an Environmental Studies major at is low flush toilets, as opposed to Car burglary, 9/3/08 Someone Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. standard 3 gallon models. He has broke into a locked Somerset Place “Everyone was very receptive to the agreed to replace all the toilets in the Toyota and took the wallet of the changes and actually many of the building by mid 2009,” said Pe- vehicle’s teenage driver. Let’s hope ideas were suggested by city em- tersen. the teenager was low on cash and 969 Moraga Rd. Lafayette in La Fiesta Square credit cards. ployees. For example, one person It ain’t easy being green. To become green, businesses and pub- 284-9616 • M-F 10-6, Sat 9-6, Sun 12-5 www.sharpbicycle.com Best Manicure! Mercury News, Metro, San Francisco Magazine Signature Manicure $12 PUT REAL ESTATE IN YOUR Signature Pedicure $25 INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO.

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Wednesday, September 17, 2008 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Page: 3 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Lamorinda Community Calendar, Notes, News Moraga Calendar Moraga Candidates to Town Council on Participatory Democracy City Council 7:30pm By Sophie Braccini Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School (Also read Sophie Braccini’s conversation with former Mayor 1010 Camino Pablo Law Office of Radcliffe & Radcliffe Cherie Grant on participatory democracy in Moraga, page 11) Wednesday, September 24 455 Moraga Road, Suite A Planning Comm. 7:30pm o a small town that’s always He is echoed by Janice Kolbe, their labors and dollars. One can Moraga, California 94556 Hacienda, La Sala Room Tarticulated a desire for mini- who says, “The spirit of volun- feel this on July 4th, the Pear Festi- 925.376.2325 – 925.376.2328 (fax) 2100 Donald Drive mal government, the involvement of teerism… is the backbone of Mor- val, and the summer concert series. Monday, October 6 its citizens is crucial. Participatory aga and what has contributed, more It's not always the same people Design Review 7:30pm democracy is the result, encompass- than almost anything else, to the doing the work; many become in- Serving Lamorinda for over 30 years. Hacienda, La Sala Room ing both volunteerism in groups that strength and vitality of our commu- volved in different ways. Commu- 2100 Donald Drive service the greater good, and active nity. As a result of Moraga’s com- nity participation is everywhere, and Monday, September 22 citizen participation in the decision mitment to ‘minimal government,’ the spirit is infectious. Martha C. Radcliffe – Estate planning making processes that affect the we have seen the growth of numer- ... continued on page 6 Park & Rec 7:30pm Lisa J. Radcliffe – Family Law, custody, support and visitation town. The six candidates seeking ous foundations, service organiza- Hacienda, Mosaic Room election to the Town Council this tions, Town Commissions and 2100 Donald Drive November are aware of the oppor- volunteer groups by which our citi- Tuesday, October 21 three great choices of Lamorinda Homes! tunities and challenges this creates. zens have volunteered their time, en- Liaison 8:00am “Moraga has always em- ergy and money to achieve things Fire Station 1 Camino del Cielo, 1280 Moraga Way braced the idea of minimal govern- our town government could not oth- Orinda ment, says Howard Harpham, who erwise accomplish.” Friday, October 10 speaks from experience as President Mike Metcalf has experienced Extraordinary views! This spacious Town of Moraga online: of Kiwanis, past President of our Moraga’s democracy first hand for home was just built in 2005 and http://www.ci.moraga.ca.us Park & Recreation Foundation, and the past four years, as Council mem- features over 5000 sqft with 4 Br, for: • all meeting notes member of the Historical Society ber and Mayor in 2007; he says, “By 3.5 Ba, plus extra studio/office and • calendar updates and CERT, “Our vibrant, active choice and by necessity, Moraga has second family room. community is supported not by gov- always been a small-government f Best Value in Orinda! ernment programs, but by volun- town. Were it not for the volun- Candidates' $1,599,000 teers who give their time and money teerism of our citizens, many im- t Night Forum to our many foundations, service or- portant things would not get done. OpOpeenn Suunnddaay 1-1-4 www.1CaminodelCielo.com Open Sunday 1-4 Wednesday, October 1, ganizations, commissions and pri- Volunteerism is encouraged and vate groups.” people continue to respond with 7:30 p.m. r JM Auditorium 11 Sanders Ranch Rd., Pool and Vineyard! d see page 6 TSAC Gets Ready Mor aga to Tackle Moraga’s Roads Great home for entertainning! By Sophie Braccini Updated with over 2700 sqft and a 3 car garage. All on a .36 ac. lot with oraga’s Traffic Safety Advi- citizen approval: 75% approval by t Msory Committee (TSAC) petition of citizens abutting the lap pool, patios, lawn and mature presented a new Traffic Calming change and 70% of citizens within Sangiovese vineyard. Guide for the Town Council’s ap- 300’ of the change; other affected cit- Offered at $1,355,000 kParty!, 9/06/08 Moraga and proval on September 10th. The new izens’ approval is never required. www.11SandersR anchRd.com dOrinda Police responded to a text, that clarifies procedures and The approval of the Police and Fire Hammond Place residence on aims at efficiently gathering public departments is required only for a report of a loud party with support, puts the Fire and Police De- level 3 measures, while TSAC ad 50 people loitering about in partments at the center of the deci- Town Council need to approve level 180 El Toyonal, the street. When the cops ar- sion making process when it comes 2 and 3 measures. Orinda rived at 11:30 the noise level to installing high impact traffic calm- During the public comment New Construction! Fabulous custom was found to be at an “unac- ing devices on the roads, such as the period, some residents argued that a home with high end finishes, approx ceptable level.” A majority raised speed tables that until recently calming device installed on a major of the students contacted divided the Town. road, even if they do not live within 2800 sqft, 4 Br, 3.5 Ba plus large When the new TSAC was ap- 300’ of the device, might impact office on a .31 acre oak-studded lot were underage and at various pointed in January 2008, one of its them. They were reminded that they stages of alcohol intoxica- with lawns and patios. first missions was to propose a new could always appeal to the Town New Construction! tion. A number of the party version of the Guide. TSAC Chair Council, which has the final decision $1,499,000 goers ran away, damaging a Barbara Simpson says the commit- on these matters. www.180ElToyonal.com portion of fence in the tee’s mission is to act as “a buffer be- TSAC’s role was immediately OpOpeenn Suunnddaay 11--4 process. tween citizens and Council so the put to the test when the next issue on Open Sunday 1-4 small issues do not bog down the the agenda came forth. It was a sim- D.U.I., 9/6/08 A Toyota was elected body.” The Guide was a nec- ple approval of the re-classification The Market has Changed... stopped for traveling west- essary tool for the Committee to ac- of Camino Pablo and Donald Drive. complish its mission. It took TSAC Those two roads had been classified Its more important than ever to work with an experienced bound in the east-bound lane seven monthly and many additional as “Arterial” in the old days when top producer! Call us if you’re thinking of a move! of De La Salle Drive at Saint meetings to completely analyze and they were supposed to be continued Mary’s College at 2:30 in the recompose the 2000 version of the and connecting to adjacent cities. ORINDA • MORAGA • LAFAYETTE morning. The vehicle’s 19- Guide. Town Engineer Jill Mercurio, acting year-old driver showed signs The result was highly praised at the request of the Council, pro- of intoxication. It is un- by the Council, which unanimously posed to re-classify them as “Collec- ELENA HOOD known if the driver was from voted to approve it. The most im- tor or Local.” Some residents saw REAL ESTATE GROUP the United Kingdom. portant changes brought forth by the this move as an attempt by the Town text regard the way to collect citizen to prepare the ground to ultimately (925)254-3030 www.orinda.com input and the systematic involve- reduce speed permanently, particu- Walking and swearing, ment of the Fire and Police authori- larly on Camino Pablo, and de- 9/5/08 A concerned citizen ties in the decision process. The manded that the issue be transferred TM called in to report a male sub- traffic calming elements are broken to TSAC for study. The Right Lender to Know ject walking and yelling pro- down in 3 categories: level 1 meas- Police Chief Ruppenthal re- fanities at passing vehicles on ures - that involve education and en- peatedly stated that the classification Puzzled by news of lower interest rates when Moraga Road near Donald forcement but do not affect was not related to speed limitation, Drive. During police contact, driveways, level 2 measures – that but the debate went on nonetheless. mortgages rates are increasing? involve changes to signage or pave- Finally, Council member Bird re- the subject displayed extreme Want to know more? Call me. signs of alcohol intoxication. ment markings and level 3 measures marked that the reclassification was – that involve physical modifications not a traffic calming measure and It was determined that he was to the street. thus not a TSAC issue; she made a a danger to himself and oth- Level 1 measures do not re- motion to simply drop the matter and 925-627-7109 ers, and was taken into cus- quire anybody’s support but recom- it was adopted by 3 members of the tody. Was he beaked about mend the approval by the Police Council. www.rpm-mortgage.com/gsteele 003810 Gordon Steele the road construction? department. 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CALL TODAY Moraga, CA 94556. TO SCHEDULE A FREE (925) 376-2800 APPOINTMENT © 2004, Align Technology, Inc. www.hudsonandaxelrodeortho.com Invisalign is a registered trademark of Align Technology, Inc. LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 4 • www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 Lamorinda Community Calendar, Notes, News Orinda Calendar Orinda Community Spirit on the Rise—Candidates Residential and City Council 7pm Restoration Auditorium, Orinda Library for City Council Weigh in on Why 26 Orinda Way By Andrea A. Firth Painting Services Tuesday, October 7 comer Dr. Bob Larsen, to explain about the values of Orinda and what ver the past year, Orinda has Meticulous attention to detail why they feel the community has needs to be done to come up with Oexperienced a renaissance in 37 years of satisfied customers Planning Comm. 7pm community spirit. More Orindans made more of an effort to get to the funds to fix our roads,” states Auditorium, Orinda Library are volunteering for causes, com- “know itself” recently and what it Smith. “Our joint efforts [with com- David Collins, Orinda 26 Orinda Way mittees, and task forces to address means for Orinda. munity groups] have resulted in a Tuesday, September 23 the important issues that impact Victoria Smith attributes the number of great events like the 925-254-6882 Parks & Recreation Comm. 7pm their City. More Orindans are regu- increased community spirit and ex- weekly Farmers Market, the “Shop Orinda Community Center Room 7 larly coming together in the streets citement in Orinda to two reasons: Orinda” campaign, the “Orinda 28 Orinda Way and downtown areas to events that the combined efforts of many resi- Salutes Cal Shakes” event, and the proving civic life,” he adds. real success” the City should update Wednesday, October 8 celebrate holidays, shopping, the dents on recent road bond measure wonderful donated art in our library Bob Larsen is all for Orinda’s their plan to include more attractive Public Safety Comm. 7pm arts, and their great City. Why now? campaigns and the City’s collabo- plaza,” she adds. renewed community spirit and feels sites for Orindans to patronize. Sarge Littlehale Community Room What has moved Orindans from the ration with community groups on a Steve Glazer has seen and felt the upcoming Orinda Restaurant “While planning we must remem- 22 Orinda Way comforts of their beautiful hillside number of key events. the increase in community involve- Tour is another good idea. “Indi- ber two special populations, seniors Thursday, October 9 homes to join forces in the heart of “Although we were not suc- ment in his community. “We are vidual businesses can participate in and teens,” adds Larsen. “Our older Mayor’s Com. Liaison 9am the City? cessful in passing a road bond seeing a great positive spirit and showcasing our town as well,” residents are often ignored. Kids Community Room at City Hall As part of The Lamorinda measure, a substantial majority of make-it-happen energy in Orinda, states Larsen. “Consider the exam- don’t call this Borinda for no rea- 22 Orinda Way Weekly’s ongoing election cover- the citizens of Orinda favored the and it’s electrifying,” states Glazer. ple being made by Ron Bonner of son. New ideas can only help fuel Monday, October 6 age, we asked the candidates for measures and the two road bond “The school community has always the Orinda House who has live the spirit.” City Council, incumbents Victoria campaigns involved hundreds of led the way with volunteerism, but music at a restaurant venue. No Lee Borrowman contributed volunteers and brought people to- we are now seeing that commit- need to travel to Yoshi’s,” he adds. to this article. check online: Smith and Steve Glazer and new- gether to have a serious discussion ment and energy expand to im- However, Larsen suggests that “for Town of Orinda: http://www.ci.orinda.ca.us/ Moraga Way Done and Dust No Longer Orinda Pursues PDA Designation • all meeting notes By Andrea A. Firth By Andrea A. Firth • calendar updates t their meeting on September past year. The goal of the group is to Chamber of Commerce: A2nd, the Orinda City Council come up with recommendations for http://www.orindachamber.org/ decided to move forward with their a streamlined, objective, user- • local businesses efforts to apply for the designation friendly planning review process. • upcomming events of Downtown Orinda as a Priority Council member Worth reported Development Area (PDA). “This that the task force’s work had made designation opens the city up for el- steady progress and that several rec- igibility for potential funding and ommended changes were under re- grants,” explained Orinda City view. Preliminary Purse theft, 9/11/08 A nanny was Planner Emmanuel Ursu. recommendations will be presented dropping off her charge at Wagner PDAs are defined as areas to the Planning Commission in No- Ranch school when her purse was that seek to accommodate growth vember of December of this year. stolen. She parked the vehicle and as mixed use, infill development Another item to note: left it unlocked and walked the child near transit and job centers, with an The City Council proclaimed onto campus. Upon her return just a emphasis on housing. Orinda’s September as National Prepared- few minutes later, the purse was proximity to BART and projected ness Month for the City of Orinda. gone. No sign of forced entry. Es- development projects appear to fit “Orinda is joining cities across the timated total loss $640 - black the definition to the letter, and Ursu nation to build awareness about the purse, cell phone and $300 cash. reported to the Council that he an- importance of being prepared,” Drunk in public, 9/10/08 A 39- ticipated their application would be stated Mayor Victoria Smith. year-old white male was in front approved. PDAs are part of a re- “[It’s] a useful reminder of the Safeway at just after 6:00 in gional planning initiative to en- about our responsibility to be able the evening. He was contacted by Orinda City Council members (centered from left to right) Tom McCormick, Steve Glazer, Mayor Victoria Smith, courage future development to fend for ourselves during a dis- and Sue Severson flanked by two helpful workers cut the proverbial ribbon to commemorate the successful one of Orinda’s finest. The sub- aster,” added Orinda Public Safety completion of the Moraga Way Pavement and Rehabilitation Project Photo Tod Fierner patterns that are compact, transit ject showed objective signs of al- oriented, and responsive to the need Advisory Committee Chair Bruce cohol intoxication; his blood rinda City staff, digni- repair work was done through- agement Board. Environmen- for housing in the Bay Area. Macler. “We want Orindans to ask alcohol level was more than dou- taries, and residents gath- out the middle of the night to tally friendly rubberized asphalt The discussion of the PDA themselves the question ‘Am I ble the legal limit. He was picked O minimize the impact on day- concrete was used to pave the application also included a review ready?’ Then make sure they are, “ up for a probation violation in ad- ered last Thursday to celebrate time traffic. The road works road, which helped to divert of the status of the Planning Process he said. “Even more we want those dition to being drunk in public. the successful completion—on of Review Task Force (PPRTF), with the capacity and wherewithal Isn’t it better to shop sober? time and within budget—of the were funded in large part over 160,000 tires from land- Moraga Way Pavement Reha- through a Surface Transporta- fills. The rubberized asphalt which has been spearheaded by to help others to be ready in ad- Petty theft, 9/10/08 A neighbor bilitation Project. To avoid cre- tion Program grant (totaling provides the added benefit of a City Council members Amy Worth vance, so that in the event of an saw a white male in his twenties ating a traffic bottleneck, the $1.14 million) and an additional quieter ride reducing road noise and Tom McCormick. The PPRTF emergency, they can offer assis- snooping around his Longview ribbon cutting ceremony to in- incentive grant from the Cali- by an estimated five to eight is one of the several task forces es- tance to those who are unable to Terrace elderly neighbor’s car at augurate the newly minted fornia Integrated Waste Man- decibels. tablished by this Council over the help themselves.” 5:30 in the morning. Concerned stretch of road was conducted at neighbor confronted fellow with a Orinda Oaks Park. flashlight, at which point the sus- pect exited the vehicle and ran to- The improvements to TheHattersleys.com Helping You Achieve Your Goals! RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE ward Orchard Road. Only $3 was Moraga Way, on a 3.2-mile seg- missing from the car. Subject was ment between Camino Encinas wearing baggy jeans and a white south to Ivy Drive south, took t-shirt and smelled of Axe about four months to complete. Open 12-5 Sat & Sun cologne. “Axe burglar?” Much of the most invasive road

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Securities offered through OMNI Brockerage, Inc. • Member FINRA/SiPC Wednesday, September 17, 2008 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Page: 5 LAMORINDA WEEKLY • Life in LAMORINDA • Lamorinda Reads: An interview with the author of “Funny in Farsi,” Firoozeh Dumas By Sophie Braccini or her elderly San Francisco neighbor during the 1989 earthquake. They all come alive and their common hu- manity is what Dumas cap- tures, first with her heart, then with her writing. “When I arrived in the United States at age seven, it was really a foreign country and the differences just over- whelmed me,” remembers Dumas, “then, I realized that Now! these Americans were not that different from me. This is why I write, to portray the Bigger & Better shared humanity amongst us all.” Dumas believes that one Celebration of the reason for her success Saturday, Oct. 4th, is that her stories are univer- 7-9pm sal. “My experiences are food, drinks, music, prizes Author Firoozeh Dumas Photo courtesy of Firoozeh Dumas those of anybody who is an 1460 Moraga Road Suite F, Moraga Moraga Shopping Center, behind McCaulous ollowing last year’s suc- writing “Funny in Farsi.” outsider and wants to be- www.starpilates.com 925-376-7500 Fcessful “Lamorinda After initial difficulty finding long,” she says, “puberty can Reads” program, featuring an editor, the book quickly be just as painful as being a “Down To The Soundless met with success. This title foreigner.” Nowadays Sea” by Thomas Steinbeck, was on the San Francisco Dumas is completely inte- the three Lamorinda libraries Chronicle and LA Times grated in her community. will soon invite our commu- bestseller list and was a final- Having been raised here by nities to share another book, ist for the PEN/USA award in Iranians, she has kept her cul- Why your whole have discussions and enjoy 2004 and a finalist for the ture. “As an immigrant, one entertainment. Lamorinda prestigious Thurber Prize for needs to hold on to their lan- Reads will kick off this year American humor. “To be au- guage and culture,” she be- family should go on October 13; the chosen thentic you have to write lieves, “but assimilation is prose is by American-Iranian about your own experience,” important too, otherwise you author Firoozeh Dumas (pro- comments Dumas, “in my end up cheating yourself.” nounce firu’zɛ d➙’mæ), stories I am as honest as I can When she comes to to UC Berkeley “Funny in Farsi - A memoir be.” Lamorinda for the Grand Fi- of growing up Iranian in The young Persian nale event of the Lamorinda America.” woman has the gift to trans- Reads program on November The book is the colorful form difficult memories into 12, Dumas will have a lot to depiction of Dumas’ family’s humor. “That’s just the way say. “I have participated in a early experience in the it comes to me,” she says, “of dozen of such community United States, from day one, course being laughed at or reads,” she says, “it is very when her father thought it lonely as a kid was painful, often a cross generational ex- was a good idea for her but as I grew up I saw the perience and I enjoy meeting mother to join her daughter in humor in it. As Mark Twain my readers of all ages.” the 2nd grade classroom, said, ‘Humor is tragedy plus She will touch as well when none of them spoke a time.’” Dumas does not de- on the process of getting pub- word of English. The very pict real tragedies, in her own lished. For her, it was very funny tales are painted with terms it is more inconven- long and difficult. “Basi- the multi-faceted colors of iences that are turned into cally, I was told repeatedly emotion and are an excellent farce. Her first name, that Iranian and funny don't read for all ages. On a sec- Firoozeh, is a good example. go together, that this is not ondary level, they are a win- Many people had trouble pro- what Americans want to dow on what it means to be a nouncing it and she heard read,” remembers Dumas, foreigner. everything from being called “The agents were looking for Dumas’ need to write “Fritzy” in a doctor’s waiting stories about being op- came with motherhood. “My room, to a rather ungifted pressed. Oppression sells, ap- father was always a story woman who decided to call parently, but being a At the UC Eye Center in Berkeley, good vision is a family affair. teller,” she said, “when I be- her “F-word.” well-adjusted immigrant with From kids 6 to 9 months old to mature grandparents, we have came a parent I knew all of Her representations are a sense of humor is a huge my father’s stories, but my impressively lively, whether obstacle.” everything it takes for complete examinations, children didn’t know mine.” she talks of her mother, who A complete list of the a vast Eyewear Center for glasses and contact When her first child reached could never completely mas- events surrounding Lamor- kindergarten, she joined a ter English, or her father’s ad- inda Reads will be available lenses, and the latest in Wavefront laser surgery. writing group and started diction to American freebies, in our October 1st issue. Please see us soon!

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Plaza Center Town & Country 6211 Medau Pl., Oakland Napa Town Center Lafayette (925) 283-3380 Danville (925) 837-0261 Montclair (510) 339-2210 Napa (707) 255-9375 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 6 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Support Lamorinda Weekly • LAMORINDA Community • by shopping with our advertisers and Candidates Speak Out on Civic Pride ... continued from page 2 telling them you saw their ad! Federighi sees two other town revitalization, protection esting, stimulating, yet safe Upon this stage, businesses Your local free Newspaper for Lamorinda components, civic organiza- of our hillsides and ridgelines, place for children and adults to and residents can freely ex- tions and business leaders ac- road maintenance and repair, learn and grow. Our govern- press themselves, making our tively promoting civic pride. public safety and more.” mental agencies provide the City vibrant and alive.” Those include the Rotary, the Mayor Mike Anderson ‘stage set’ that encourages and Lastly, “Our residents are Community Foundation and also has a multi-faceted view protects this healthy commu- the stars of the show, living the League of Women Voters. of the factors that contribute to nity. This ‘infrastructure for well, caring for others, volun- INVITATION “Our hardworking Chamber of civic pride. He believes that, living’ includes our outstand- teering to assist civic Commerce…has contributed “Civic pride in Lafayette ing schools, parks, open and processes and supporting the Meet the Candidates and inform yourself about immeasurably to the down- comes from residents who undeveloped ridgelines, living less fortunate.” When all of the two open space initiatives called J and K! town’s vitality.” Finally, “Vol- have found a place that sup- creeks and public safety. This the above noted interests work unteers work many hours for ports their lifestyles, has peo- ‘stage’ is reliable but flexible, together they make a city no pay on the City Council, ple compassionate and accommodating the routine where residents feel joyful and Candidates' Night Forum commissions, committees, and concerned for the needs of and usual and allowing for the proud. Wednesday, October 1, 7:30 p.m. task forces to support down- others, and provides an inter- spontaneous and unusual. JM Auditorium Mayor Lobbies Sacramento to Not Take Redevelopment Funds Moderator: Budd MacKenzie of Lafayette By Cathy Tyson s the record breaking party. funds not only provide jobs stead, wreak long term dam- Attorney with Local Civic Involvement Abudget impasse looks Obviously there are and stimulate local age on the Sate and further 6 Town Council Candidates like it may be coming to a many items on the table, but economies, but – statewide- dim California’s future finan- + Fire District Candidates close in Sacramento, what would directly affect generate an estimated 310,000 cial prospects.” Lafayette’s Mayor Mike An- Lafayette are redevelopment good-paying jobs, $32 billion “For the State to raid Open Space Initiative Forum derson urged Governor funds proposals. In prior in total economic activity and local redevelopment funds Schwarzenegger, Senator budget proposals, $1.6 billion in state and local now is akin to farmers eating Monday, October 13, 7:30 p.m. Tom Torlakson and Assembly Schwarzenegger’s and the taxes each year,” said City their seed corn. It might re- Soda Center at St. Mary's College Member Loni Hancock to not Republican’s plan shifts 5% Manager Steve Falk. sult in a “full belly” but will dip into city redevelopment of redevelopment funds to In an open letter dated ultimately result in starvation. Moderator: money to help balance the schools and community col- September 4, 2008 to I urge you to resist the temp- Lee Borrowman state budget. leges. The Republican plan Schwarzenegger, Torlakson tation to take the easy way out Editor of Lamorinda Weekly At press time, more than also redirected funds set aside and Hancock Anderson states, and instead stand firm for Speakers: Dick Loewke, Yes on J two months past their dead- for low income housing. De- “The development of a long genuine, long lasting fiscal re- line, Republican and Demo- mocrats proposed a much term solution for our budget form…” Renata Sos, Yes on K cratic leaders say they have smaller shift of redevelop- crisis cannot be based upon To see the entire letter, Bob Reynolds, No on Both reached a compromise, but ment funds to schools and the pilfering of funds desig- go to the Lafayette City web- are mum on the details. At community colleges totaling nated for the redevelopment site www.lovelafayette.org Hosted by issue is the state’s $17.2 bil- $98 million. of our local communities. and click on the City Man- lion deficit. Three plans were “The total hit to Balancing the State budget in ager’s Weekly Message, and Moraga Citizens’ Network being debated: one from the Lafayette could be well above this way is not in California’s scroll down to “State of the Sponsored by Governor and one from each $500,000! Obviously these long term interest and will, in- State.” Moraga Citizens’ Network and Lamorinda Weekly Moraga Candidates to Town Council on Participatory Democracy A Neighbor You Can Trust… ... continued from page 3 We're about people, family Commission, pushes the notion of ourselves by the letters we write Lamorinda Home Loan Specialist Lamorinda Resident since 1990 and friends, all living in a com- participatory democracy beyond to the editor, by our attendance at “My husband and I were munity we are proud to call volunteerism, and praises the way our local legislative meetings, and pleased with the efforts • Lafayette Chamber of Commerce home.” citizens get involved in the deci- our spirit of volunteering in the of Steve Snyder of CMG... Board of Directors Harpham would like to see sion making in town, “A partici- many laudable venues of our • Lafayette Rotary Board of Directors even more volunteerism, “To re- patory democracy invites citizens community.” …He assisted us in the • Temple Isaiah Board of Directors - 10 years duce Town expenditures on out- to make meaningful contributions Metcalf adds, “People want recent purchase of a • Orinda 4th of July Marching Band - 8 years second home … His • Generation In Jazz Foundation Advisor side consultants, I propose the to the decision-making process by to be informed, most want a say. meticulous attention to to Board of Directors formation of a Moraga Profes- directly taking part in that Participation is encouraged. Pub- detail, perseverance, and • Stanley Middle School Music Volunteer sional Advisory Board; comprised process. The Town of Moraga is lic meetings truly are public fo- follow through expedited • Lafayette Summer Music Jazz of Moraga citizens with expertise a commendable example: citi- rums, where people can voice the process …” Workshop Drum Technician in specialized areas such as engi- zens are encouraged to participate their opinions and be heard. neering, law, finance and technol- in all Town meetings, meetings Sometimes it's difficult for Town Bill and Lucy – San Francisco ogy, selected by the Town are publicly noticed, communica- leaders to digest what's been said Manager, they would assist our tion networks and advocacy and reach consensus, but it hap- Steve Snyder Town Staff whenever such ex- groups keep residents informed, pens. This takes teamwork of Mortagage Consultant pertise is needed. We can’t com- the Town maintains a detailed elected leaders and citizens. CA Dept. of Real Estate Broker # 01370755 1575 Treat Blvd., Ste 100 • Walnut Creek pletely eliminate consulting fees, website, and volunteerism is the That's participatory democracy.” but we can reduce them substan- solid cornerstone of our commu- Brad Kvederis, on the other tially by offering a new way to see nity.” hand, is skeptical when it comes ‘participatory democracy’ in ac- Dennis Wanken agrees: “As to citizens’ information and in- tion.” a former Moraga School Board volvement, “Moraga has the po- Kolbe adds an example of president and member, I could not tential to be a good participatory I[Wiedi?dj[h_eh:[i_]d a committee that could be formed agree more that we Moragans ex- democracy, but falls short right I right now, “Moraga’s seniors have emplify the true spirit and practice now. I'm glad our town is still recently petitioned the Council to of participatory democracy. Dur- small enough that one person can Season ? s this the for change? We combine creative create a Senior Services Commis- ing the five years I served on the make his voice heard, but simply ideas with budget-friendly solutions to restyle sion, modeled after Lafayette’s. school board, one thing that could being small is a mixed blessing: the rooms you live and work in. The cost would be negligible, but be counted on would be spirited Too often for a town our size, of- Selling a home? At I[Wiedi?dj[h_eh:[i_]d our goal is to it would facilitate the identifica- and lively public comment and ficials seem to be trying to guess “show” ready I tion and response to the needs of debate on public policy issues be- what the citizens want, not acting make your home , for greatest first impression to homebuyers. the 20% of our residents who are fore the board. Participatory on a clear mandate. In my door- over 60 years old.” democracy is the essential mech- to-door campaigning, many peo- Buiding/Remodeling? To create your dream kitchen Karen Mendoca, who has anism by which we citizen stake- ple I visited didn't even know

call: Shannon Boehme at (925) 385-0293, firsthand experience as a volun- holders have our voices heard. We there were big housing develop- or email: [email protected], P.O.Box 1835, Lafayette teer on the Parks and Recreation Moragans can truly be proud of ments proposed right in their back yards. Sometimes, this discon- nect is because our size makes large-scale, cohesive political ac- tivism difficult. Others, it's be- cause the town ought to be more proactive about gathering input from the people and neighbor- hoods that its decisions affect - my own candidacy is a direct re- sult of this. We need to be a lot more active in publicizing what's coming up before the Town Council, and make more use of the public referendum as a poli- cymaking tool.” Mendoca agrees that citizen participation could be improved further. “If there is one area that could be improved, it is the way in which opinions are sometimes expressed,” she says. “Passion- ate beliefs, if not checked, easily can give way to uncivil behavior and personal attacks. Each of us must be willing to engage in civil discourse that respects others’ different points of view. It is es- sential that civic leaders them- selves set a positive example and uphold behavioral norms that en- sure a successful participatory democracy and the productive exchange of ideas.” Wednesday, September 17, 2008 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Page: 7 LAMORINDA WEEKLY • Life in LAMORINDA • The Making of the President 2008 SMC’s C.L.A.M. Hosts Author Richard Reeves rBy Andrea A. Firth political corre- Nixon, and Ronald Regan, will take the opportunity to apply spondent and Reeves is currently a senior Lec- his perspective as a presidential syndicated turer at the Annenberg School for historian to identify what makes columnist. Communication at the University a great president. “The job of Reeves will bring of Southern California. president isn’t running the coun- this straight-for- “I think there are a lot of fal- try,” states Reeves. “It’s leading f ward style to his lacies of what people think about the nation into situations that k upcoming pres- the presidency,” explains Reeves. haven’t been anticipated.” entation—The He points out that in recent his- Reeves commentary on the d Making of the tory very smart presidents, like 2008 presidential election is part President 2008— Herbert Hoover, have tended to of SMC’s Committee for Lec- at Saint Mary’s fail, and some of the less intelli- tures, Art, and Music (C.L.A.M.) College (SMC) gent men who have held the of- Fall programs. C.L.A.M. will on October 8th. fice have had some success. “It’s kick off the 2008-2009 season “I will try to not about IQ. It’s a matter of judg- with a performance by the Robert describe what ment, and judgment is a gamble. Moses’ Kin Dance Company on has, is, and will No one knows how people are September 21st. A Musical Cele- happen in this going to respond to situations that bration for Christmas featuring election, and put no one anticipates.” the San Francisco Choral Artists it in the context While he notes that 85% of and including the always popular of what it will Americans will vote along party bell ringers of the Megan mean to the next lines based on factors such as Solomon and Sonos Handbell presidency,” family history, race, and religion, Quartet will be held on December states Reeves. no matter what happens. Reeves 6th in the SMC Chapel. Richard Reeves Photo Patricia Williams “This is among f ten years ago, you had told the most historic of American C.L.A.M’s Fall Programs 2008 someone that the race for presidential elections...But presi- September 21st at 2:00 pm “I Robert Moses Kin Dance Company the Democratic nomination and dencies have a history of being Lefevre Theater subsequent Presidential election quite different than campaigns,” October 8th at 8:00 pm The Making of the President 2008 would involve a black man and he adds. The author of a trilogy of Soda Activity Center With author Richard Reeves Shop locally whenever two white women, people would December 6th at 8:00 pm presidential portraits, which A Musical Celebration for Christmas have thought you were nuts,” chronicle the White House years The SMC Chapel you can. states Richard Reeves, long-time of John F. Kennedy, Richard For more information and to purchase tickets, call (925) 631.4381. Only your support DENTAL CARE By Mona Miller, DVM of our local businesses ogs and cats develop dental Ddisease, much like humans…. will keep them open! but think about it – we brush and floss as often as every 12 hours to maintain the health of our mouth. How many of our pets can say the same? Bacterial accumulations called plaque form on the surface of a tooth and if not brushed away, will quickly start to mineralize and harden into tartar (or calculus). This is the yellow-brown deposit on the tooth’s surface that is readily visible. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, which can be seen as redden- Amanda Griggs brushes the teeth of her dog, Amberite ing and swelling. Progression of anesthesia. This allows for two three times weekly, there is 40% less gingivitis leads to periodontitis, things: to clean below the gum line plaque build-up. Special dental which is inflammation of the tissues with an ultrasonic scaler, and to in- diets, such as Hill’s t/d, provide a surrounding the tooth itself. Signs tubate the trachea for prevention of mechanical scrubbing effect on the such as bad breath, calculus build- bacterial spread into the respiratory tooth surface to reduce plaque. The up, inflamed gums and loose teeth system. Risks of anesthesia are min- Veterinary Oral Health Council all indicate levels of dental disease imized with a pre-anesthetic physi- (VHOC) has awarded a seal of ap- that should be addressed. The bac- cal examination and blood tests to proval on several types of chew terial load in the mouth can be so assess liver and kidney status. Dur- treats that are also suitable. high and imbalanced with “bad” ing the dental procedure, vets often bacteria that infection can develop use intravenous fluids, antibiotics, Dr. Mona S. Miller lives in internally, in heart valves, kidneys anti-inflammatory drugs and pain Lafayette with her 3 year old son and liver. and her yellow Labrador Re- medications. The specifics of these Some animals are more sus- triever. She has worked at Four can be discussed with your veteri- ceptible to developing gingivitis and Seasons Animal Hospital in narian, in context of your dog or periodontal disease: small breed Lafayette since moving here in cat’s general health, age and your dogs are at higher risk (probably be- 2001. She attended Cal as an preferences. undergrad, and received her cause of their small mouths having Home dental care is the best DVM from U.C. Davis. She can be to make room for the same 42 teeth preventive for frequent anesthetic reached at Four Seasons, 938- as a long-nosed dog), diabetic pa- dentistry, as well as for maintaining 7700, or by email to MonaS- tients, and cats with certain viruses. the health of your dog’s mouth to [email protected]. Because every animal is dif- prevent periodontal disease and in- ferent, there is no set recommenda- fections. Pet toothbrushes and spe- tion for how often a full dental cially flavored pet toothpastes are cleaning should be performed. Your widely available (dogs and cats veterinarian will assess your pet’s seem to prefer malt or poultry, not mouth at each annual (or semi-an- mint!). Daily brushing is ideal, but nual) physical examination. A thor- even if you brush your dog’s mouth ough dental cleaning involves full

Fall in the Wildlife Hospital The Lindsay Museum’s wildlife hospital has received more than 4,400 in- jured or orphaned wild animals since the beginning of the year. With a lit- LOCALLY OWNED and OPERATED tle bit of knowledge and a few changes in habits, we can greatly reduce our impact on the region’s wildlife. LIFETIME GUARANTEE Keep pet food indoors: Wild animals can become dependent upon hu- PROGRESSIONAL mans or our pets’ food and may carry diseases that can make humans DESIGN CONSULTANTS and pets sick. We are dedicated to providing consistent quality, Don’t feed the ducks: Bread and crackers are not natural duck foods and dependability, on-time service and excellent can make them very sick. Feeding ducks can also lead to overpopulation customer communication. that spreads disease and causes death. 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Bird netting: Avoid the use of plastic bird netting, especially near the Limited Time Offer - Expires August 31, 2008 - Offer Code: PPLMSU08 ground. It can trap and entangle many wild animals. Use a stiffer wire mesh instead. Lawns: Treat your lawn with beneficial nematodes in the spring so that rac- coons won’t dig looking for grubs in the fall. Call 925-935-1978 or visit www.wildlife-museum.org for more information including museum hours and admission prices. Lindsay Wildlife Museum connects people with wildlife to inspire responsi- bility and respect for the world we share. The museum houses a collection of DRIVEWAYS PATIOS POOL DECKS WALLS WALKWAYS live, native California animals, a hands-on discovery room for children, a pet education section with domestic animals, changing exhibits and a wildlife LICENSED - BONDED - INSURED License # 908736 rehabilitation hospital that treats about 6,000 animals every year. “Loans provided by EnerBank USA ( 1245 E. Brickyard Rd., Ste. 640 , Salt Lake City , UT 84106 ) on approved credit, through participating contractors for a limited time. Repayment terms vary from 18 months to 126 months. 16.79% fixed APR subject to change. Interest waived if repaid within 180 days.” LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 8 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 • Life in LAMORINDA • Smart Discipline for Parents By Andrea A. Firth fter a hectic summer where by Dr. Dale Hancock, a family sual reminders of the rules as they whining, and eye rolling, and feel Ahouse rules went a bit lax and counselor specializing in marriage drive,” explains Hancock. “Kids up to the task of making a change, the kids a bit wild, many parents and family therapy as well as child need the same type of visual re- the two-hour Smart Discipline sem- quietly hope that the regimen of and adolescent therapy. Hancock minders.” The program also fo- inar might be the solution to some school will get the kids back on began conducting the Smart Disci- cuses on verbal and written family strife. track quietly and unquestioningly pline seminars ten years ago after techniques for building a child’s self Smart Discipline for Parents following rules, and life at home having had success with employing esteem and providing effective crit- will be presented on Wednesday, will return to a peaceful existence the disciplining techniques with his icism. September 24th from 7:00 to 9:00 for the entire family. Unfortunately, own son who was five at the time. “Consistency is the biggest pm in the Parish Hall at St. Get Clean. this scenario may be more dream “We still use Smart Discipline in challenge to making it work,” notes Stephen’s Epsicopal Church in than reality for most. To address the our home, and my son is 15 now,” Hancock. “Although the Smart Dis- Orinda (66 St. Stephen’s Drive)). parenting challenges of disciplining states Hancock. “No matter what cipline approach is simple and vi- Admission is $15 per person. To re- kids from ages 4 to 18, the upcom- age from three to four years on, it is sual, it still requires parents to serve a seat, call St. Stephen’s at ing seminar—Smart Discipline for a beneficial program,” he adds. consistently employ it.” Hancock (925) 254-3770, ext. 10, or email Parents—will provide parents with Based on the consistent ap- feels that although parents may see [email protected]. For ways to help their children take re- plication of rules and privileges, the improvement right away when more information about the pro- sponsibility and control for their be- Smart Discipline program employs starting to use the Smart Discipline gram, visit TOTAL CLEAN haviors and bring a sense of visual tools to help both children approach, it takes about four to six www.smartdiscipline.com. HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE harmony and cooperation back to and parents stay on track. “Stop weeks for a family to establish a the home. signs, yields signs, and a variety of good disciplining habit. So if you 925.376.1004 The presentation will be led traffic signs provide adults with vi- are frustrated by the quarreling,

Nurture your garden at Lamorinda Rotary Clubs Join Forces to Respond to Iowa Flooding McDonnell Nursery By Jean Follmer

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Come in for advice about water conservation and retaining moisture in your garden. We're here to help keep your garden beautiful!!

• Shrubs • Garden Accessories • Flowers • Personalized Service 254-3713 196 Moraga Way, Orinda www.mcdonnellnursery.com Sunrise Rotary members present the “Check” at the meeting on August 22nd Photo Andy Scheck amorinda Sunrise Rotary Sunrise Rotary Club, Moraga Ro- Rapids Sunrise Rotary Club to be LClub member John Fazel re- tary Club and Orinda Rotary col- distributed to flood victims. Mr. H.R. Savage & Company, Inc. cently led fellow Rotarians in a lected a combined total of $7,500 Fazel has shepherded other fundraising effort to help the flood from the Lamorinda communities. fundraising efforts for natural dis- • MORTGAGE LOANS • victims in Iowa. Mr. Fazel said They collected most of the funds asters including the Midwest Flood “Four and one-half square miles outside of local Safeways and do- of 1993, Hurricane Mitch in Cen- Purchases • Refinances were inundated in Cedar Rapids.” nated the balance from their re- tral America in 1998, and Hurri- Fixed Rate Reverse Mortgages (no cost) John and his wife are native Iowans spective clubs. John said “One lady canes Charley, Frances and Jeanne and John has attended several Ro- wrote a check for $1,000. It shows in Florida in 2004. 253-5920 tary meeting in Cedar Rapids. The the generosity of people.” The Lafayette Rotary Club, Lamorinda money was sent to the Cedar 8 Camino Encinas Suite 210 • Orinda • [email protected] The Orinda Idol 2008 Results are In REAL ESTATE BROKER-CALIFORNIA DEPT. OF R.E. LIC #01129542; D.R.E. LIC Info #916-227-0931 By Jean Follmer Bay Area Drainage, “For All Your Inc. Drainage Needs” • French Drains • Underfloor Drains • Downspout Systems • Subdrain Systems Lamorinda Blue, Soccer team United 95 Photo Andy Scheck n Sunday, September 7, the School. The finalists had all sum- with her co-chair, Susan Garrell, OOrinda Theater was packed mer to practice. They also had op- since the beginning of Orinda Idol. • Sump Pumps for Orinda Idol 2008. Orinda Arts portunities to perform at the “Over 80 volunteers are working Council Idol co-chair Petra Michel Farmers’ Market, the Orinda 4th of over the course of the day,” said • Retaining Walls said nearly 2,000 attendees were July parade and The Orinda House. Michel. She said Alan Michaan of counted by the end of the day. The Orinda House owner, Ron Bonner, the Orinda Theater has been very competition for grades K-2 began said they performed twice at his generous in allowing Orinda Idol to at 11:00 followed by grades 3-5, venue this summer. “It was ab- use the theater. Michel also men- middle school, high school and solutely wonderful. That’s what tioned the strong support from ended with group competitions. this House should be all about. I Orinda Intermediate School. “We This year, Orinda Idol opened its was honored and humbled to be (Orinda Arts Council) have close high school individual as well as its part of it and I would absolutely do cooperation with OIS. Aubyn Sev- middle school and high school it again. I called Petra (after the erson and Michael Randall (of OIS) group competitions to both winners were announced) to see if I support (the Idol) program tremen- Lafayette and Moraga students. could host the winners at The dously and OIS lends us their (pro- Michel said this resulted in stiffer Orinda House. I’d like to do more duction) equipment,” said Michel. competition than in past years. “I community oriented things,” said For more information, visit think the highlight was that the Bonner. www.orindaartscouncil.org. competition was so close. I heard Petra Michel has worked from some audience members that they couldn’t decide on the middle The winners this year were: school and high school competi- Grades K-2 Jackie Patton of Glorietta Elementary General Engineering Contractor tions. The quality was really, really Grades 3-5 Jocelyn Purcell of high,” said Michel. Sleepy Hollow Elementary Locally owned and Operated The initial Orinda Idol com- Middle School Katie Marino of Campolindo HS, Contractor LIC # 762208 petitions took place in May and fi- qualified as 8th grader at OIS nalists were announced in June. High School Sarah Ames of Miramonte 925•377•9209 Judges this year were local musi- Groups Suvi & Max Duet of Miramonte visit our website cians Bert Keely and Mathias (Suvi Gluskin and Max Tzannes) Montgomery, Marilyn Levinson of Audience Award Katie Marino of Campolindo HS, www.bayareadrainage.com Bay Area Cabaret and Sheryl Lynn Thomas of the San Francisco Jazz qualified as 8th grader at OIS Wednesday, September 17, 2008 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Page: 9 LAMORINDA WEEKLY • Life in LAMORINDA • Upcoming Ride and Walk Events to Defeat Lou Gehrig’s Disease By Cathy Tyson tires, and acclaimed Pastry Chef day and ride as a Hot Dawg, an in- Annie Baker hosing cooking dividual or on another team,” said demonstrations with chefs from Team Captain Chaney. Julia’s Kitchen at Copia, Redd, Chaney will be riding a three Mustards and more. wheel recumbent CATRIKE that al- The three and a half mile lows him to pedal without having to Walk around Lake Merritt on Octo- hold his head up or balance his arms ber 19 is wheelchair and stroller ac- due to loss of muscle mass in his cessible. There is even a shorter upper extremities. “It’s like riding a Jumpstart Your Weight Loss route available to those with mobil- lounge chair but much, much ity issues. Moraga resident Katy faster,” noted Chaney. Lose 15 to 60 pounds in 12 weeks! Ousterman anticipates approxi- “The short answer to why is to mately 30 friends will participate raise awareness and money to sup- Physician-Supervised Weight Loss • Dietary Guidance Safe and Effective Medication • Long Term Weight Management with her and “Team O” in her hus- port ALSA’s efforts with research band’s memory. “I have to say the and family services and to remind community has been wonderful, re- myself and other who care to notice ally fantastic and supportive.” that diversity and unexpected chal- Commonly referred to as Lou lenges in life don’t need to be a rea- Gehrig’s disease, amyotrophic lat- son to give up. I have always been Walnut Creek San Ramon eral sclerosis, or ALS is a progres- physically active and I’ll be damned 710 S. Broadway, Suite 110 2301 Camino Ramon, Suite 290 Team Hot Dawg Riders from Wine Country Ride 2007, from left David sive, fatal neuromuscular disease if something like ALS is going to 925-277-1123 • www.jumpstartmedicine.com Miller, Al Marino, Dylan Chaney, Matt Chaney, Nick Talken, Dan Talken, that slowly robs the body of its abil- rob me of future fun.” Chris Banard and Brett Banard Photo provided ity to walk, speak, swallow and Lamorindans are invited to amorindans looking for a supporters in Team Hot Dawg will breathe, according to the ALS Asso- join the fun or just support the cause Lworkout and a worthy cause be bicycling in the Wine Country ciation. with a donation. For more informa- are invited to participate in two up- event. There are four routes avail- 4(%2%3 ! .%7 .%)'("/2 “Team Hot Dawg always has tion on the Ride and the Walk and a INYOURNEIGHBORHOOD coming events - the Wine Country able depending on the rider’s energy a good turnout. In 2007 we had the peak at Matt Chaney go to Ride to Defeat ALS on September level: 10 mile, 25 mile, Metric Cen- #ALLORVISITMETODAY largest team – 63 riders and brought www.alsabayarea.org. For more in- Mike Rosa State Farm Agent, 27, and the Bay Area Walk to Defeat tury (62-mile) and 100-mile. Riders !GENT.AME 3TATE&ARM!GENT in donations totaling around formation on the disease go to 1042 Country3TREET!DDRESSs#ITY 3TATE:IP Club Dr Suite 2D • Moraga ALS on October 19. will be treated to snack rest stops, a $45,000. The entire field of riders www.whoislou.com. license # 0F455830HONEs% MAIL • 925-376-2244 • [email protected] Lafayette fundraising legend gourmet lunch, a SAG wagon for numbered 900 and raised $330,000. Matt Chaney along with pals and those too pooped to pedal or flat Everyone is welcome to enjoy this

School Bus Safety – Motorists Must Look Around, Slow Down & Stop š 0  3TATE&ARM)NSURANCE#OMPANIESs(OME/FFICES "LOOMINGTON ),sSTATEFARMCOM ... continued from page 1 As a bus prepares to make a is very clear that all vehicles must the officers that follow the school passing stopped buses with flash- stop, its yellow lights will start stop in both directions when a buses. Most people seem to be ing red lights, but they are cross- flashing. When the bus is stopped, school bus has its red lights on. compliant, but there are always a ing a double yellow line to do it. its red warning lights will flash and The only exception is when there few that aren’t. I’ve had to give When a bus is passed illegally, the the stop signal arm on the side of is a physical median or divider some citations. If you see a school driver calls the violation in and at- the bus will be out. The U.S. De- separating the opposing traffic,” bus, generally speaking, there is a tempts to get a license plate num- “A High-tech Brain 10% Off partment of Transportation says said Hein. police car around.” ber, but they’re not always able to with the Patience “Motorists must come to a com- Hein said the Lamorinda Po- “Every day with our 22 that since their first responsibility of a Mother” Any Job with This Ad! plete stop a safe distance from the lice Departments have helped re- buses, there is somebody who (il- is to the safety of the children on bus and wait until the red lights duce the red light runner problem legally) passes a bus,” said the bus. “Ultimately it’s up to all Fast Expert Computer Help stop flashing, the arm is retracted, by following buses and ticketing Hansen. She also said there are a of us that drive our roads to obey and the bus begins moving before offenders. Lafayette Police Offi- few locations, like Reliez Valley the law. These are our children from techmommy! they start driving again.” “The law cer Chilimidos said, “I’m one of Road, where drivers are not only we’re putting at risk,” said Hein. • Troubleshoot any PC problem. • Help in plain English, not tech talk. Got a Frantic Family? • Personal training in your home, at your pace.

By Cathy Tyson “Over the years 925-377-7711 techmommy has been our computer Most Important Organization in look back at your life as a chaotic savior and guru, untangling our hardware and your Life” outlines a model that blur? www.techmommy.com software problems with remarkable ease. Thank goodness for techmommy. provides families with the clarity Lencioni offers simple strate- Serving the Bay Area’s Technology We would be lost without her!” and purpose found in successful gies to hectic families trying to jug- Needs Since 1985 – Dan & Colleen, Moraga businesses. gle work, play, and usually loads of Here’s a brief quiz to see if extra-curricular activities. “People your family is frantic: are more frantic and overwhelmed 1. Do you often feel like your than ever because there are more Pamela Halloran, life is merely about surviving from opportunities that ever, and more Broker Associate Listing and selling one day or week to the next? social expectations for taking ad- in Lamorinda 2. Do you ever fantasize about vantage of all those choices.” Village Associates moving to “the country” so your As school begins for Lamor- (925) 323-4100 for over 20 years. family could live a more simple inda families, karate, football prac- Call Pamela for life? tice and piano lessons ramp up after [email protected] 3. Do you often find yourself summer hiatus, these business re- all your Patrick Lencioni, author of The wondering why you signed up for lated tips might be just what the Three Big Questions for a Frantic an activity after it’s too late to drop doctor ordered. real estate needs! Family Photo provided it? For more information on the Local father of four, business con- 4. Do you experience tension author, go to www.patricklen- sultant, and author of six books, with your spouse around managing cioni.com. Lencioni will be fea- Patrick Lencioni has some advice your calendar? tured at a team building event at the for overly busy families. His new 5. Do you find it difficult to find San Ramon Marriott Hotel on Sep- book “The Three Big Questions for time for dates with your spouse? tember 22, to benefit the San WE’LL IMPROVE, SO YOU DON’T MOVE! a Frantic Family: A Leadership 6. Do you fear that you’ll get to Ramon Valley YMCA.250 Fable about Restoring Sanity to the a point in the future when you’ll Fall Prevention Week By Sophie Braccini ayle Uilkema, County Su- be speaking to the Moraga in the Soda Center on the Saint Gpervisor, said it in a nut- Movers during their dinner on Mary’s College Campus. Call shell: “Get rid of the old slippers!” October the 13th starting at 4 p.m. 376-6622 for reservations. The week of September 21st to the 27th is Fall Prevention Week in Contra Costa County. Falls are the most frequent cause of all ac- cidental injuries/fatalities in the County among residents 65 and older, more than twice the toll of motor vehicle accidents. Accord- Framing ing to Contra Costa Health Serv- ices, between 2002 and 2004 there were 8,658 hospitalizations and 140 deaths due to falls by Contra Costa residents. On September 11th, Completed Uilkema stressed the importance of fall prevention in front of “The There is no reason to move to get that extra room or space you’ve always wished for. Original Lafayette Senior Recre- ation Center” at the Lafayette United Methodist Church. Be- Additions sides discarding the old slippers, she recommended regular exer- cise, wear thin rubber soled shoes Kitchens with shallow treads, avoid rush- ing and use handrails, have your New Construction vision checked, and make sure there is ONE pharmacist who Contractor’s License #670051 + insured knows about all the medications Bath Remodels you are taking. Local organizations are Glass Room Additions Call for a free in-home welcomed to invite the Supervi- consultation! sor to come and talk about this important health topic, contact her office at 335-1046. Uilkema will (925) 932-4072 or (800) 953-0053 • Sunshine-Construction-Inc.com LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 10 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 Dear Editor, I read a letter to the Editor in the August 20th Weekly about a middle school trip to Costa Rica. I just wanted to let parents know that my son had a fabulous time on his trip with the Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School. They traveled with a Share your thoughts with our community! Opinions in Letters to the Editor are the company called Worldstrides, which had more than enough chaperones and set express views of the writers and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. up an excellent program for the kids. On my son’s trip there were 10 students All published letters will include the writer's name and town (please give us your phone number for and 3 adults including the JM teacher, Kim Lockett. A program leader from verification purposes only), and should be 350 words or less. Letters may be edited for length or legal considerations. Worldstrides met up with them in Costa Rica and stayed with them the entire time they were there. The company plans out a safe and fun trip for the stu- email: [email protected]; Regular mail: Lamorinda Weekly, P.O.Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570 dents, with a strong focus on learning science and ecology first hand. They There is now a lot of positive momentum and civic pride in Orinda and we the job, and we are gratified by changes we have seen in the Orinda city studied a lot about biodiversity and how it relates to the different plants and an- congratulate Steve and the new City Council for leading the way. Thank you government during his first term. imals they came into contact with in area of Costa Rica. They traveled to the Steve! Steve has been a driving force in involving more citizens in the key issues Tirimbina Rainforest, Arenal volcano, the Santa Elena Cloud Forest, and Mon- facing our the City Government. Two years ago there were only around 35 Best, teverde. It was a week long science camp that was very well run and I would residents on city committees and commission. Now, over 70 citizens are in- Charles "Chip" Wiser recommend it to any parent of a 7th grader in Moraga. volved in committes dealing with the Budget, Planning Reform, Revenue Orinda Eric Andresen Enhancement, Audit and Infrastructure Oversight. He has led the effort on the Council to institute objective criteria for funding Moraga Dear Editor, road repairs. We all know there are not enough funds to fix our roads but at Dear Editor, I have lived in Orinda for over 13 years. Supporting local businesses is and al- least the money we do have is going toward the main roads. We certainly ap- ways has been a high priority for me. But over the years, the quality of our preciate having Moraga Way, Glorietta, Camino Pablo and parts of Lombardy We need Steve Glazer on the Orinda City Council. As the neighborhood local Safeway really suffered, both in variety and quality of products, as well repaired. Also, the budget has been squeezed and a lot more money is now association representative in our community for many years I worked very as general appearance, especially compared to nearby competitors. I, like many being spent on roads than prior to his service on the Council. We so much ap- closely with Mr. Glazer on several long term issues regarding EBMUD’s others, began to do more and more of my food shopping outside of my town preciated his leadership in the successful effort to keep our Library open longer proposed expansion of the Orinda Filter Plant. Mr. Glazer rallied against (Diablo Foods, Whole Foods, Costco). each week. Our community spent millions to build this new and beautiful build- EBMUD expansion with strength and intelligence. He negotiated effec- During Steve Glazer’s first year on the City Council, he sent me and many other ing. It would have been a huge disappointment if the hours of operation had tively and represented the interests of our neighborhood for the benefit of Orinda residents an e-mail saying he had heard of my concern about the con- been cut down to just 35 hours a week. In addition, he led the community ef- all Orindans. We worked closely for more than 2 years on this issue to a sat- dition and product offerings at our local Safeway and asked if I wanted to be fort to get Safeway to upgrade and remodel their store. isfactory resolution. Mr. Glazer operates calmly, consistently and with the involved in a meeting with company executives to request improvements. I Finally, Steve campaigned four years ago for reforms to the planning and de- highest integrity even when attacked by individuals that seek to further their readily accepted the opportunity to voice my concerns and was very impressed sign review process. The Council has acted to make the process fairer and more own interests. He has many accomplishments during his term: reforming with the willingness to hear feedback from a variety of community members. timely and they are continuing to work on additional improvements. the planning & design review process; furthering retail interest in Orinda; I was pleased to attend several meetings organized by Steve with Safeway ex- We have a great city but we like the many efforts by Steve and the Council to effectively managing our limited funds for road repair; adding much needed ecutives, planners and architects who committed to working with us to make not rest in working to make things even better. We urge a vote for Steve Glazer transparency in our small town government and so much more. Mr. Glazer changes to improve the situation. The company had indicated that they had re- for Council. has proven himself to be an honest, balanced and intelligent representative ceived a less than open arms reception in previous years but was willing to take Sincerely, for Orinda. I whole heartedly support his re-election and hope you will another try and appreciated the offers of help from Councilman Glazer and the Jim and Carol Brovelli vote with me for Steve Glazer in November. residents in attendance. Well we all know how this story ends. I was amazed at how quickly Safeway Brandt Williams Dear Editor, Orinda responded and how efficient and speedy the remodeling process went. While Safeway still does not meet all my needs, it is a vast improvement, and I make Steve Glazer has been a breath of fresh air in Orinda City Government. Dear Editor, every attempt to shop there as much as I can. Originally elected four years ago in what can only be termed a landslide This is only one of a number of reasons that I will vote for Steve Glazer for vote, he has served the best interests of our community diligently and ef- I have known Steve Glazer for over 20 years and he is a tremendously ded- Orinda City Council. He took a long-standing problem and brought effective fectively. At the outset he met opposition on every front from the "old icated, hard-working, civic-minded person. He has brought a fresh per- and immediate results. I encourage my friends and all Orinda residents who guard" who seemed fixated on returning Orinda to the insular and arrogant spective to the City Council and has accomplished much to improve the know of his hard work on our behalf to do likewise. "Father Knows Best" days. Ultimately, Steve has turned things around and quality of life in Orinda. we now enjoy a more open and inclusive city government. Sincerely, I worked closely with him to improve our wonderful library. He is a leader in our Steve is now being subjected to criticism, which can only be labeled ridicu- Dvora Citron community efforts to support our schools. His service on the Fire Committee lous, for recusing himself on matters relating to the Wilder (formerly Gate- helped bring paramedics to our fire stations. He has urged me and my friends way) development. It is curious that he is being castigated for obeying the Dear Editor, to be better prepared in a disaster and through the Orinda Association has pro- law, which requires that he recuse himself. Steve deserves not only our vote moted the sale of emergency supplies to me and my neighbors. I would like to encourage all Orinda citizens to re-elect Steve Glazer and for re-election, but our applause and praise for truly representing Orinda Steve takes this volunteer Council position very seriously but is the first to say Victoria Smith. The Orinda City Council has come a long way in the last voters, in the face of unwarranted criticism. Let's re-elect Steve Glazer in he doesn’t have all the answers. When I have raised concerns, he shares his four years and we need to make sure that the council stays on the right an even more resounding fashion than in 2004. knowledge and then usually follows up with “why don’t you get involved and track. With great progress coming in so many different areas- road im- Ralph Severson help your city.” I don’t always have the time but I certainly appreciate that he provements despite very limited funding, transparency in government, pub- does. I enthusiastically urge Steve Glazer’s re-election to the City Council. lic safety and emergency preparedness, and vastly improved relationships Dear Editor, Susie Epstein with stakeholders- it would be a huge mistake to interfere with the process Orinda at this critical point. We all owe a debt a gratitude to our volunteers on the Vote Yes on Measure K to prevent more traffic. City Council for their long hours and excellent work. Please cast your votes Our commutes on Moraga Road and Moraga Way are bad enough. And yet Dear Editor, for Steve Glazer and Victoria Smith in the upcoming election! Moraga has already approved 200 new houses and the traffic that goes with them, while several hundred more are in the pipeline. Professional traffic Glenn Alper , MD I want to encourage my friends and neighbors in Orinda to join with me in sup- studies indicate that each new single-family home in a community such as Orinda Union School District Board of Trustees porting Steve Glazer’s re-election to the City Council. Steve’s first two years on Moraga generates over 10 car trips per day (not hard to believe when you the Council were particularly challenging because many of his common sense consider work, school, housekeepers, gardeners, babysitters, and soccer Dear Editor, ideas were rejected by the old establishment. He wanted better feedback from practice). The Town estimates that under the existing General Plan another residents through customer surveys, criteria for road repairs so the major streets As an active and involved community member, I have had the chance to ob- 360 houses could be built in open space areas, potentially adding 3,600 were given a higher priority than cul-de-sacs, greater transparency in govern- serve the work of the City Council these past few years. The Council is work- more car trips each day. By amending the General Plan to reign in the ment decision-making, tighter fiscal controls on spending and the curtailing of ing with limited resources yet have high demands from residents who want amount of development allowed in open space areas, Measure K would sole source contracts. I am happy to see that in his last two years on the newly better roads, balanced and timely consideration of remodeling permits, safety eliminate 3,000 of those trips. We need to face the fact that Moraga is es- configured Council he was able to accomplish all of these reforms. programs and fiscal responsibility. It is not an easy job. sentially a cul-de-sac and our roads can’t handle more cars. We can’t afford I want to call out the fine work of last year Mayor and current Councilmember to let Moraga’s future be dictated by developers’ interests. Measure K gives Steve Glazer for his excellent leadership in bringing all elements of the city to- voters the power to protect Moraga’s open space from too much growth gether to make progress on all the matters mentioned above. His open and con- and the unmanageable traffic it will bring. We need Measure K to put the sensus driven stewardship has provided a place for all citizens at the decision brakes on traffic. making table. He does not view his job as having all the answers but rather Verna Osborn working with interested and knowledgeable residents to find the best solutions. Moraga In particular, I want to mention Steve’s leadership in keeping the School Dis- Lamorinda’s trict’s Pine Grove plan from collapsing. About 20 months ago, our developer, Dear Editor, Pulte Homes, was in a technical default position due to unhappiness with ex- Religious Services cessive regulations from the City. The School District stood to gain $25 million As the CC Times correctly noted in an editorial about Moraga: "Town of- from the completion of this project for much needed capital improvements. ficials and residents need to be careful about how much residential devel- Steve’s chaired an emergency Council and Planning Commission committee opment they approve because housing usually does not provide enough tax comprised of one other council member, city staff, school district staff and revenue to cover the cost of services." (2/27/08) Moragans need to give this school board members, to review the problem and search for common ground. issue serious thought, especially before they vote on Measures J and K. The project plans were revised. Compromises were made. The Orinda Union New development increases demands on police, fire, emergency medical re- School District staff and board members were delighted when the Council ap- sponse, and local government. More residents mean more cars and more proved the project last week. It is worth noting the vote was unanimous with no potholes to fix. But won't the property taxes from the new houses pick up member of the public objecting. I would like to sincerely thank all members of the tab? Not for long, because property taxes can't keep up with rising costs. the Council – Sue Severson, Victoria Smith, Tom McCormack and Amy Worth Under Proposition 13, property tax increases are capped at 2% per year – but want to especially recognize Steve Glazer’s good work. The level of trust, while most Town costs increase 5% a year. Soon the expenditures exceed Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church, Orinda, 254-3422 cooperation and responsiveness toward the school district has increased dra- the revenues causing deficits. matically during Steve’s tenure and is much appreciated. I hope you will join Measure J is a developer's initiative designed to encourage large new sub- Summer Worship Schedule me in supporting his re-election to the Council. divisions in open space areas, bringing more costs to the Town along with 8:15 a.m. Traditions Worship Service them. In contrast, Measure K is a citizens' initiative limiting new subdivi- Pamela West 9:15 a.m. Coffee Fellowship sions and preserving open space. Measure K gives voters the chance to pro- 9:45 a.m. Celebrations Worship Service tect Moraga from overdevelopment it can't afford. That's why I'm voting Childcare available for ages 5 and younger Dear Editor, NO on J and YES on K. Our Savior’s Lutheran (ELCA) Soprano We are happily endorsing Steve Glazer in his campaign for re-election to 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette the City Council. We appreciate his earnest and hardworking approach to Tom Marnane 283-3722 • www.oslc.net Ann Moss Moraga Sunday mornings at OSLC: in recital! Classic Worship, 8:15 am Saturday, Education Hour, 9:30-10:20 am 10/4, 7:00 Contemporary Worship, 10:30 am I magine A Difference In Orinda St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church The City of Orinda needs a vision with a real plan to accomplish its goals. A Loving Community That is why I am running for offi ce. Sunday Services: 8 and 10 AM I am a successful business man who has overseen a medical group in Active Youth Program, Childcare San Francisco for over 20 years. We can maintain Orinda’s semi- rural character 682 Michael Lane, Lafayette, 284-7420, www.stanselms.ws Foundingundidiingg MemberMMembber while increasing revenue and improving services through an open government. Industrial Medical Council, St. Giles Episcopal Church of Moraga As a non-incumbent I will bring fresh ideas and solutions to the important issues State of California facing our community. Worshipping at St. Mary’s College Chapel. All are welcome at our services. Past President 9 a.m. Sunday Service: Holy Communion - with St. Giles' Choir. California Society Dr. Bob Larsen - The Alternative Child care is available all year. of Industrial 1928 St. Mary's Road, Moraga. 925-376-5770 Medicine and Surgery Dr. Bob - The Alternative Platform Clinical Professor rnative

e Temple Isaiah welcomes you to worship with us on Shabbat. UCSF Medical Center Improve the Business Climate For specific questions, call the Temple office at 925-283-8575 Director Invest in Orinda’s Bucolic Character or visit our website: temple-isaiah.org. Center for Occupational Initiate Effective Disaster Preparedness 1st and 4th Friday evening - 6:30 PM Psychiatry Instill Transparency in Orinda’s Governance

2nd and 3rd Friday evening - 8:00 PM Bob The - Alt : Dr. Saturday mornings at 10:30 AM Spearheaded Efforts Invigorate Communication Between Citizens and City Hall to beautify Sunrise Hill Road Ignite a Plan with Solutions for Repairing Our Roads and Infrastructure If you would like your services listed, please email to

Paid For By [email protected] or call 925-377-0977. Member A one inch listing will cost $20. All Orinda Pickup Band Phone me at: (925)254-1917 or Visit my blog at: drbobthealternative.com Wednesday, September 17, 2008 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Page: 11 LAMORINDA WEEKLY • LAMORINDA Community • Participatory Democracy in Moraga Send Letters and Opinions to A conversation with Cherie Grant [email protected] By Sophie Braccini and still are property issues, land group and participate in local ac- would you like to see in participa- use, property rights. We have dif- tions. There are many new ways tory democracy? Monica Casale - Owner/Bookkeeper ferent views of open space and for people to get information like Cherie: The college and the town OPTIMUM ACCOUNTING land use that have been con- list-serves, or blogs on different need to come together more; we fronting each other for years. subjects. The infrastructure to cir- need a town center where people Filed an extension? Sophie: If we have such profound culate the information is there, but can meet, a fun place, a town Let us help organize your bookkeeping before filing! divisions, what makes us an effi- too many don’t see the need of square where we discuss idea. cient democracy? getting involved. There is a core That physical meeting place could Just need bookkeeping help? Cherie: Because of geography, we group, 50 people or so, who really be the Hacienda with some im- Call us! We’ve specialized in small business bookkeeping for over 16 years. t have a better chance to talk to care. New people in town some- provements. each other, even though we don’t times just assume that everything Sophie: As you conducted your 24 Marston Road × Orinda, CA 94563 have a town center, we run into is fine and they trust the five peo- studies, what surprised you the Office: 415.370.4517 × Fax: 925.254.3178 × [email protected] people all the time, we do not ple on the Council. most? have a freeway running in the Sophie: Current Mayor Lynda Cherie: What surprised me the rCherie Grant Photo provided middle of town, it makes it a little Deschambault made participatory most was the commitment to the herie Grant is very familiar more cohesive. democracy and circulation of in- town that some people have made dCwith the community spirit Sophie: The other large compo- formation one of her main cam- for more than 30 years, or others that nourishes the life of the Town nent of participatory democracy, paign objectives; did she succeed? like Parents for a Safer Environ- of Moraga. As a Council member as described by Tocqueville, is the Cherie: “She’s truly a pioneer, she ment who spend countless hours and Mayor of the small town, and important amount of volunteerism tried to have everything online, of outreach and research to protect member of many community that people give to their town; she sends emails, and spreads in- our children from harm. I knew groups, she saw first-hand how how is volunteerism doing in formation in town. I’m not sure it the spirit of volunteerism was local democracy thrives on the Moraga? has increased participation as strong, I was surprised to find it so rparticipation of the people. When Cherie: Moraga is basically a much as she would have wanted powerful and widespread. she began to study the work of town that is run by volunteers, all it to be. It is work, and people are French political philosopher and our commissions, the Town busy.” analyst Alexis de Tocqueville, she Council, work for absolutely no Sophie: In his essay, Tocqueville Quality Paving for Today’s Economy! was struck by the idea that his de- money, and that’s what built attributed a part of the success of piction of the early years of the America from its beginning, it the democratic process to “the su- American Republic resembled volunteerism. The equality of periority of their women;”does Driveways - Walkways what happens on a smaller scale in condition and economic homo- the gender of a candidate make a Retaining Walls Moraga. She decided to dig into geneity we have here makes it difference? dthe subject and produced a thesis easier. Cherie: Women bring something Pool Decks tcalled, “Grassroots Efforts In The Sophie: To make the right deci- different to the table, we can’t Viking Drainage & Patios dTown Of Moraga In The Spirit Of sion, citizens need to be informed; neglect gender; we need a mix. In Alexis de Tocqueville.” do you think that Moragans are our area our women are very con- Paving Call now for a Grant says, “The principles informed enough? fident. They are “the back bone Systems Free Estimate! of participatory democracy that Cherie: Things have become so of the community” and they are Tocqueville described with enthu- complex that issues are some- making a difference every day. Lic. #783563 siasm are still very much alive in times hard to grasp. One of the Sophie: You talk a lot about the LAFAYETTE, CA 925-550-0525 our town today. It dates back to reasons we went small was to citizens’ involvement in the area the very creation of the Moraga make things easy, but now even of sustainability; why? entity in the early 70’s. People small is very complex, regula- Cherie: That’s the thing that will were concerned to have decisions tions, traffic studies, people feel bring the whole community to- LAMORINDA made about their town in Martinez helpless. May be they feel it is gether. The campus is doing it, it and when development started to harder to have an impact. Toc- is a global quest, we are all con- CONSTRUCTION sprout around town there was a queville said people were active cerned for our children and our- CONTRACTOR large grass root movement that led because they could have an im- selves. Why would we want to t • Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling to the incorporation of the town.” pact. That’s why a group like make our town a lesser commu- • Decks Sophie: Since the involvement is Moraga Citizens Network is im- nity for future generations? The • Room Additions still going on today, what are the portant. They have changed issue transcends democrats, re- • Hardwood Floors things in town; people who had publicans; it’s a fabulous opportu- primary motivations of the resi- • Door & Window Replacement dents? never been able to go to meetings nity to pull us together. r • Tankless Water Heaters Installation Cherie: 90% of the issues were are now involved thanks to that Sophie: What improvement r • And More d JAD Construction is a Lamorinda based company. Public Forum Family owned and operated with over 20 years experience d JOIN IT Home office: (925) 254-4080 • Mobile: (925) 286-8685 Voters of Moraga – Vote NO on J and NO on K Email: Lamorinda contractor @ gmail.com Licence #598907 By Steve Woehleke, Dale Walwark, and Bob Reynolds Competing special interests have placed two initiatives, Measures J and K, on the fall ballot in Moraga. If passed, their re-write of Moraga land-use policy will impose their view of the future of Moraga land-use and planning on all of us. And, the permanent changes almost certainly will result in expensive litigation the Town must de- fend, at your expense, with a reduction in Town services. This is a very bad idea. Your NO vote on both J and 5A5A hashas storagestorage forfor you...you... K is essential to the future of Moraga. Together with land-use restrictions in place since 1986, Moraga has evolved a planning process that has served the community very well. Ridgelines and open spaces are protected. Environmental issues are thoroughly con- FIRSTFIRST MONTHMONTH FREEFREE onon anyany sizesize sidered. Local control is firmly established. There is lots of opportunity for input from neighbors and the com- munity. The limited new home construction we have seen is compatible with our attractive community. Most of us see little that needs to be fixed. LimitedLimited timetime only!only! ** However, others may see a need for Moraga land-use policy change. We do not resist it. But, if changes are needed, we believe they should be determined in Moraga’s established General Plan process, deliberative deci- r sion making with ample opportunity for dialog among landowners, citizens, and professionals. Up-front dis- d cussions should focus on consideration of alternatives and assessment of implications. Instead of Moraga’s normal balanced and deliberative process, special interests have plunked down the two take-it-or-leave-it pack- ages of permanent regulations, the full implications of which may not be known until it is too late. Regulations set by initiative can only be changed by another initiative or by the courts. An almost certain result of passage of either of these measures will be legal challenge, expensive litigation that Call the Town of Moraga will be forced to defend with your money. It is unfortunate that the Initiative process sad- dles the Town (i.e., you) with the legal bills, not the proponents. We all know that litigation is expensive but we Today! don’t know how expensive. The cost is open-ended and unknowable until the process is well underway. The problem is that the Town of Moraga is basically broke. All revenues are being used for costs, and we face structural deficits in the years to come. There is no extra money to pay the expected legal bills. There isn’t even enough to pay for continuation of current services. And, we can’t raise taxes. Thus, the cost of litigation must be taken away from Town services, police, parks, recreation, roads, public safety, and other. Do you want to sacrifice police protection in exchange for expensive lawyers to defend spe- cial interests? The Town will have no choice if these measures pass and become law. Compromise is not pos- sible if either initiative passes. We do not question the business interests or the motivations of initiative proponents. They are local people and they want what they want. We strongly question the implications of the words on the paper of the take-it-or-leave initiatives without de- liberation or discussion. On your ballot, you will see 12 to 17 words. You can only say Yes or No. Behind these 12 to 17 words are 25 to 30 pages of dense legal initiative language that required about 25,000 words each for Town staff and lawyers to interpret. We strongly urge you to vote NO on both J and K unless you have studied Use our FREE Truck to help you every word of the measures, understand their meaning and implications, and agree it is all, in its entirety, good for you and for Moraga. move in! Your NO vote on both on J and K will mean Moraga will retain local control under its time-tested land-use poli-

cies and its effective planning process. Ridgelines and open spaces will continue to be protected as they have * FIRST MONTH FREE on any size unit, on new rentals only. Expires 9/30/08. Ask about details on Free Truck or rental truck rebate. been for more than 20 years. Your NO vote on both J and K can also be the starting point for a sensible informed discussion of the future of MORAGA land-use policy and planning in Moraga, done the way it ought to be done, a dialog among citizens, profes- sionals, and landowners with deliberation, discussion, and ample public input. Rheem Shopping Finally, some people have told us they don’t like either of these initiatives but think they have to choose between Plaza 925-631-7000 Ns the lesser of evils. Rheem Blvd. 455 Moraga Road Suite F WE WE Moraga Rd. There is a third choice, a better choice. Choose no evil at all -- Vote No on both J and K. www.5Aspace.com NS LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 12 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 JV LUCAS PAVING QUALITY • INTEGRITY • EXPERT WORKMANSHIP THIRD GENERATION PAVING COMPANY Lafayette’s Prudential Team It’s presents: • Driveways • Private Roads Time to $ 2,695,000 Prudential O • Tennis & Sports Courts Seal A 40 North Hill Court California Realty K Sweeping Bay views from this exquisitely re- • Parking Lots Coat! L done home of over 5400 s.f. Completely re- 925-283-7000 • Subdivisions A modeled inside with the finest and rarest of N materials. Five Bdr, expansive decks, second catering kitchen for entertaining, complete Your Professional • Seal Coating D make-over! Call Jim Colhoun 925 200-2795 Lamorinda Team Lic # 195560 $1,750,000 is located at: L 925-283-8027 A 3600 Powell Drive F 999 Oak Hill Road RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL A Coveted Lafayette Woodlands Home! Amazing Y 4 Bdr, 3.5 Bath 3,513 s.f. home on .87 acres of Lafayette E land with sport-court, level yard, and swim- T ming pool with hot tub and cabana! Great Lamorinda Home Sales continued T property and near downtown! Call James LAFAYETTE Last reported: 5 E Collins or Jim Colhoun 925-640-8818. LOWEST AMOUNT: $560,000 $869,900 HIGHEST AMOUNT: $3,200,000 M 203 Corliss Drive HOME SALES O Sale Pending 3 Bdr, 2 Bath Ranch Home. This home has: a presented by MORAGA Last reported: 6 R distinguished address, awesome schools, pool LOWEST AMOUNT: $295,000 nestled by private terraced garden leading fur- A HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,115,000 ther up beyond fence on .45 acre lot. New LAMORINDA G Roof! Bay window & spacious living room. ORINDA Last reported: 5 A Formal Dining, eat-in kitchen, new appliances. Call Hollie Howell (925) 457-7073. LOWEST AMOUNT: $775,000 HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,480,000 L $ 525,000 A 917 Hough Meet Ginnie Home sales are compiled by Cal REsource, an Oakland real estate information weeks after such recording. This information is obtained from public county F Realtor company. Sale prices are computed from the county transfer tax information records and is provided to us by California REsource. A Downtown Lafayette-2bd, 1 1/2 ba shown on the deeds that record at close of escrow and are published five to eight Neither Cal REsource nor this publication are liable for errors or omissions. Y Newly remodeled and gorgeous! Walk to Ginnie has been a top pro- E BART and downtown shopping. Low LAFAYETTE T ducing agent since 1979 and has 3301 Betty Lane, $801,000, 4 Bdrms, 1515 SqFt, 1952 YrBlt, 8-22-08 T HOA's, small and quiet complex. lived in Lafayette since 1955. E Call Lisa or Barbara 925 698-5752. 15 Charles Court, $3,200,000, 8-18-08 She knows the area and the 618 Huntleigh Drive, $1,085,000, 3 Bdrms, 1748 SqFt, 1960 YrBlt, 8-21-08 market. Ginnie is known for $ 419,000 1136 Orchard Road, $560,000, 5 Bdrms, 2021 SqFt, 1952 YrBlt, 8-26-08 R her preparation of homes be- O 1177 Leisure Lane #3 3177 Stanley Boulevard, $679,000, 3 Bdrms, 1448 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 8-22-08 fore they are placed on the Mul- S 2 Br, 2 full baths. Totally remodeled with MORAGA S tiple Listing Service. Her top of the line appliances, travertine 108 Brookline Street, $775,000, 3 Bdrms, 1819 SqFt, 1983 YrBlt, 8-20-08 M flooring, slate patio, crown molding and listings are well priced and O 786 Camino Ricardo, $1,115,000, 4 Bdrms, 1981 SqFt, 1964 YrBlt, 8-19-08 much more. Now is the time to enjoy life! show to their best advantage. O Call Lisa for more information 2133 Donald Drive #6, $295,000, 2 Bdrms, 1224 SqFt, 1963 YrBlt, 8-27-08 R Ginnie has taken over 1,000 (925) 698-5752 28 Hanson Court, $765,000, 3 Bdrms, 2095 SqFt, 1984 YrBlt, 8-21-08 hours of course work on real es- W $380,000 tate and continually updates her 458 Millfield Place, $1,050,000, 4 Bdrms, 2198 SqFt, 1965 YrBlt, 8-19-08 A 31 Miramonte Drive, $405,000, 2 Bdrms, 1152 SqFt, 1964 YrBlt, 8-26-08 L 2627 Oak Road #A knowledge on legal issues and N ORINDA U Updated 2 bedroom, 2 bath single level contracts. Almost 30 years of T unit with convenient inside laundry and experience in the up' and down 165 Canon Drive, $1,190,000, 3 Bdrms, 2277 SqFt, 1962 YrBlt, 8-21-08 C cozy wood burning fireplace. Approx 30 Daryl Drive, $1,480,000, 4 Bdrms, 2973 SqFt, 1952 YrBlt, 8-19-08 R 1,208sf of living space. A must see! cycles of real estate has honed E 26 Don Gabriel Way, $850,000, 4 Bdrms, 1604 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 8-22-08 E Call Lisa at 925-698-5752 or her negotiating skills. K Frith at 925-698-6030. 66 Muth Drive, $1,005,000, 4 Bdrms, 2364 SqFt, 1978 YrBlt, 8-19-08 110 Ravenhill Road, $775,000, 2 Bdrms, 1180 SqFt, 1974 YrBlt, 8-20-08 Rancho Laguna II Subject of Moratorium Debate Lynn’s Top Five By Sophie Braccini opening the Town up to litigation SMART PLANNING FOR TAX by the developer, asserting certain rights vesting to him just before any MANAGEMENT election results.” By Lynn Ballou, CFP, EA The question of whether or ust got the kids back in school? come you’ll have coming in from not the developer could get the proj- JStill working on last year’s tax pre-tax sources. Maybe it’s time to ect approved before the election return because you are on exten- think about beefing up your future was raised. It doesn’t seem likely sion? Well, but believe it or not, tax-free retirement income. The that the final map could be ap- there’s no rest for you, because it’s cost? You lose the deduction today proved before November. Vaughn time to do your year-end tax plan- on contributions. The benefit? Not ning and strategic tax moves! Here only will your capital come back to Rancho Laguna II subdivision project site believes that the further along the project is moved , the murkier the are a few to think about: you tax free during retirement, but situation will be. “Why are we 1) Have you paid in enough so will all the growth on that capi- even doing this?’ asked Commis- taxes to the IRS and FTB to avoid tal! Rheem Blvd. sioner Bruce Whitley. The Town’s penalties? If not, it’s time to adjust 5) Many of you gift stock at the lawyer answered that the town has your withholding or supplement end of the year to your favorite char- a legal obligation to respond to any your estimated taxes. If you are pay- ities. Think about the timing and application. ing in enough to avoid penalties, but don’t just wait until December. If The Planning Commission is still expect to owe more in April, do your favorite stock to donate is hit- expected on September 15th to cer- you have a game plan for having the ting all time highs now, lock in the tify the Final EIR of the Ranch La- cash on hand? deduction at these higher values and guna II project, to approve the 2) Many of you are employees donate before the mad crush at the who must fund your tax deductible end of the year! Your charities will View of Rancho Laguna II Photo Andy Scheck conditional use of the property for single-family development, and to plans via payroll deductions. If you thank you, too, for helping them out n 1986, when the first Moraga of Rheem Boulevard, between 2000 residents petitioned to place approve a conceptual development are 50 or over, you may have neg- now and helping them avoid the pa- IOpen Space Ordinance Woodminster drive and Fernwood that measure on the ballot. He plan for the property. The question lected to elect the additional catch- perwork and administrative over- (MOSO) was placed on the ballot, drive. The 35 lots that are proposed asked that the study of the Rancho of the memorandum was not put on up funding available to you ($5000 load that typically hits them in the Town Council put a moratorium produce a development ratio of a Laguna project be stopped until res- the agenda of the Town Council extra/year). Check how much you December. are putting into your 401(k) and an- So, don’t be shy! Jump into on all development projects until little less than 1 unit for 5 acres. idents have voted. “Is the project meeting. nualize what you are on track to do the planning pool now. Do be care- the election was held and the Town The 2 proposed land use initiatives suddenly on the fast track?” asked between now and year end. If you ful of those sharks, though --- espe- had adopted proper regulations re- on the November ballot, measure J Leuteneker. are not meeting the maximum, ad- cially our favorite version of Jaws: garding the implementation of and K, would both classify this Bill Vaughn, a former Coun- just your systematic contributions to the Alternative Minimum Tax! Not MOSO. Now Rancho Laguna II, a property as open space, but with cil member and Mayor of Moraga, be sure you hit your target for max- sure you have the time or expertise 35 lot subdivision project, is on its different rules. Measure J would asked for a moratorium on the proj- imum deduction. to chart this course alone? Your tax way to have its conceptual Devel- restrict it to 1 dwelling for 5 acres ect because of the uncertainty cre- 3) Check out your year-to-date pro and financial advisor can help (MOSO 86 rule) with which it al- ated by the pending vote. One of opment Plan and Conditional Use capital gains and losses. Might this you navigate these waters. ready complies, while measure K the Planning Commissioners, Mar- Rancho Laguna II Permit approved. And some resi- be the last year we see such prefer- Happy planning! would restrict the area to 1 unit per garet Goglia, asked the Town’s at- dents who attended a recent meet- ential gain rates? Do you want to 20 acres, with additional restriction torney about this moratorium. It ynn Ballou is a Certified Finan- ing of the Planning Commission are take more gains this year? Or per- on construction on ridgelines. was answered that the Town Coun- cial Planner (CFP) and co-owner wondering if it is not time to put the Rheem Blvd. haps you have losses that it would L At the September 2nd Plan- cil is the body that can make such a of Ballou Plum Financial Advisors, brakes on until voters decide how make sense to harvest? After netting they want to see open space man- ning Commission meeting, Jon decision. LLC, a Registered Investment Advi- gains and losses you can use excess sory (RIA) firm in Lafayette. Lynn is aged in Moraga. Leuteneker, a supporter of Measure In order to pursue the matter, losses up to $3000/year against or- K (MOSO 2008), reminded the Bill Vaughn sent a letter to the also a Registered Principal and The project is located on a dinary income (carry forward the Branch Manager with LPL Financial Commissioners that more than Council to request that such a meas- 180-acre property on the East side balance of losses to future years). (LPL). As such, she is required by ure be taken. He wrote, “…it seems Don’t forget to include estimates of securities regulations to add the fol- very unwise, to me, to continue the year-end mutual fund distributions lowing information to this column: approval process on this project at in your after tax accounts in your The opinions voiced in this material this time. The harms created by planning. are for general information only and continuing the process would range not intended to provide specific ad- Saint Mary’s Rd. 4) Do you have the opportunity from a potentially large waste of to have your 401(k) funds be ROTH vice or recommendation for any in- time and money on behalf of both vs. traditional contributions? If so, dividual. Securities offered through LPL Financial, member the Town and the developer to think about how much retirement in- FINRA/SIPC.

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Ron Morgan is the Possible room for horses too! owner of the business and Betsey Hecht the store manager. Morgan is a $1,425,000 flower arrangement artist who teaches all over the country. He has an eye to discern the interesting objects that just Pat Abshire need a touch of renovation to become [email protected] fabulous, and he collects his “loot” The East Bay’s Residential Real Estate Firm of the Year (925) 285-1582 Awarded by the East Bay Business Times everywhere he goes. The result can be found in the store tucked on Mount Diablo Boulevard across from the Chartreuse – A Woman’s Endeavor To Save Our Skins Mercantile, filled with an eclectic mix By Sophie Braccini (Loot in Lafayette): Betsey Hecht in the store Photo Sophie Braccini of marvelous home accessories with a says Walter, “but I do try to get peo- broad range of prices, from very affordable gifts to stunning place setting and flowers. “We have felt very wel- ple to read beyond the marketing comed in Lafayette,” says Hecht, “we had worked for years in Piedmont and Oakland but the rise of crime fluff and packaging. I try to give them the tools to read product labels there made it impossible to stay. Here the synergy is good and our business is doing very well.” Morgan teaches for themselves.” And with her own flower arranging in the store as well, the next class will be on September 22nd, call the store for details. line of products on the market, with For the Sassy Shoe Lover- Sacsies in Lafayette ingredients that are fully disclosed, www.sacsies.com Walter feels confident they won’t be Sheena Shastri lives in Orinda and is passionate about shoes. In January, she launched a product that she cre- disappointed. ated called Sacsies. Sacsies are fashionable shoe totes designed for women’s shoes, for travel and closet stor- The name “Chartreuse” comes age. They are unique in design and functional: they have a cylinder shape which cradles the shoes, an easy from a Crayola crayon shade of yel- low green that was created in 1972. closure seal allowing adequate ventilation and the quilted lining creates added cushion to pad the shoes; the view- Associated with a spunky pink, it cre- ing window allows for an easy selection of shoes in your closet since you can see which pair is in each bag. ates the fun and crisp image of Wal- ter’s products and web site. From the three Chambers of Commerce “Many organic items have a dull image,” says the young entre- Tri-Chamber meeting Lavande Spa and Boutique Manager presents preneur, “I wanted to create an at- Stratford at Countrywood invited Chartreuse beauty products Photo Sophie Braccini tractive and elegant packaging for the Chambers of Commerce for a hen she became a mother, list is a proprietary element, the these quality goods.” Thus the com- joint meeting on September 10th. WLaurie Walter of Lafayette components of which may be kept pany’s motto: “Be Distinctively The event was well attended and started paying more attention to the secret by manufacturers. Green.” very lively, a perfect venue to talk labels of the care products she was “When Environmental Protec- Walter goes beyond packag- about synergies and make new buying for her child and her home. tion Agency (EPA) researchers tested ing. Her operation is contained business connections. Then one day she read "Not Just a thirty-one fragrance products, they within her garage at this time, and Keith Miller, President of the Pretty Face; The Ugly Side of the found that more than half the products ranges from enhancing bulk natural Beauty Industry,” by Stacy Malkan, contained ingredients listed under the Orinda Chamber of Commerce soaps with essential oils, to creating and learned that what appears on EPA’s Toxic Substance Control Act. and Edy Schwartz, President of the completely new products like the these product labels is not strictly Since perfume can enter the body “Sassy Shopping Bag” that she de- Moraga Chamber of Commerce regulated the way the Food and through the skin or by inhalation, signed when she couldn’t find what thanked the Lafayette Chamber of Drug Administration regulates food, many of these chemicals are readily she wanted on the market. The Commerce for organizing the Tri- and some ingredients are left off the absorbed and accumulate in the “eco-chic” purse contains six gro- Chamber events. Tri Chamber Mixer label. Not content to ignore what body’s fatty tissue,” explains Walter. cery size foldable shopping bags, Jay Lifson extended an invitation she couldn’t see, Walter decided to Another ingredient often and room to put the keys and wallet: to Moraga and Orinda Chamber members to join all Lafayette Chamber events in the future. research products thoroughly and found in cosmetics is DEA (di- no more excuses for forgetting those ended up deciding to create her own ethanolamine), a chemical that is green bags at home or in the car. Lafayette Chamber of Commerce when she discovered that even some used as a wetting agent in shampoos, Her line of products also includes • September 20th and 21st: Let’s all go to the Arts and Wine Festival! well-marketed environmentally lotions, creams and other cosmetics. household cleaners, organic body • Entrepreneurs Club on September 18th starting at 8:30 a.m. The Club is on the road again, friendly products could endanger DEA is used widely because it pro- and facial care products, recycled going to “Clocks Etc.”, 971 Moraga Rd in Lafayette. her family. vides a rich lather in shampoos and gift-wrap and notebooks. • Business Issues Committee on Thursday, September 25th at 8 a.m. in the Chamber Conference Room. “I now have the responsibility keeps a favorable consistency in lo- The way Walter distributes Moraga Chamber of Commerce for the health and well-being of my tions and creams. DEA by itself is her products is in line with her sus- • September 27th: Let’s all go to the Pear Festival! three sons,” says Walter, who admits not harmful but while sitting on tainable vision of life. She has • September Chamber meeting Friday, September 26 8 a.m. at Fireside Room in the Hacienda to worrying as well about what kind store shelves or in your cabinet at started to build a network of Con- with speaker Rhonda Chaikin, who will share with the Chamber ideas for "Greening Your of future her children will have on home, DEA can react with other in- sultants who sell the products on our over-taxed planet. A Tufts grad- gredients in the cosmetic formula to Business Environment” their own schedules, growing as uate and former business consultant, form an extremely potent carcino- Orinda Chamber of Commerce their network expands. In addition, she felt she had the knowledge and gen called nitrosodiethanolamine she is working with local retailers • September 30th: Let’s all go to the Restaurant Tour! motivation to make a difference for (NDEA). NDEA is readily absorbed and has an agreement with Lavande • Orinda Chamber Mixer at the de Laveaga Estate on September 25th - 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. consumers. through the skin and has been linked Spa and Boutique on Mount Diablo Parking is very limited on the property. The Chamber will be shuttling guests to the site. When she started to research with stomach, esophagus, liver and Boulevard in Lafayette. Catch the shuttles in front of the Orinda Library and Chamber office. The Orinda Chamber products that wouldn’t harm her bladder cancers. More information can be proposes to its members a unique visit with one of the most emblematic family of Orinda. family, Walter discovered that the “I am not in the business of found on the web site www.Char- The de Laveagas have continuously occupied the property where their ancestor built their term “fragrance” on an ingredient tearing down other companies,” treuseProducts.com house in 1888. Thanks to Marty Stewart De Laveaga and her family chamber members will be able to walk back in time and see her great grandparent’s house. If you have a business brief to share, please contact Sophie Braccini at [email protected] or call our office at 925-377-0977. Former Employee Fights Back By Lee Borrowman and Cathy Tyson ong K. Tran, a former em- quit his job at the salon after he was ness is now damaged,” Yang said Lployee of Judy's Nail Salon in not paid some of the wages owed to last week. However, Moraga Police Moraga, has recently filed a report him. Luu believes that Yang ac- have confirmed that the investiga- with the Moraga Police Department cused Tran of theft in an attempt to tion into the alleged thefts from (MPD) against Judy Yang of Judy’s discredit him (as reported in our Judy's Nail Salon has been dropped. Nail Salon. Derick Luu, who iden- issue dated July 9, 2008; at that time Officer Will Davis said, "Currently tified himself as Tran's spokesman, Mr. Tran could not be located for there is no theft investigation; based said Tran is claiming that Yang comment). on her statements, Judy couldn't falsely accused him of stealing "I believe he stole from me; substantiate any missing products from her business, and that Tran products and customers. My busi- or cash."

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925-299-1240 Orinda Hardware & Rental Orinda 56 Moraga Way 925-254-5429 Sale ends 09/30/08 48 hr Screen Repair Service! © 2008 by True Value® Company, Chicago, IL 60631 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 14 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 Acalanes High School • Bentley School • Burton Valley • Camino Lafayette Elementary • Los Perales • Miramonte • Orinda Academy Pablo Campolindo • Contra Costa Jewish Day School • Del Rey Orinda Intermediate • Saklan Valley School • Sleepy Hollow Donald L. Rheem • Glorietta • Happy Valley • Joaquin Moraga Lamorinda Schools Springhill • Stanley Middle • St. Perpetua School • Wagner Ranch No More Pesticides at Local High Schools By Sophie Braccini tion. He and his staff were con- cerned with the feasibility of stop- ping the use of chemicals. “We have Voted Best Of The Best lost 2 maintenance and one ground In The East Bay employee due to the budget cuts,” • Advanced Color Specialists said Fishbaugh, “with less personnel we cannot manually remove weeds • Custom Hair Cuts “Masters, The True or chase gophers.” • Hair Extensions Artists Of Color, Cut Carol Shenon, another mem- Tuesday - Saturday & Style” 925-939-7425 ber of the group that has done a lot Evening Appointments Available Seen In Harper’s Bazaar Magazine 2400 Olympic Blvd., Suite 4 • Walnut Creek of research and outreach for the Moraga School District, explained, Mary H. Smith, PfSE meets with AUHSD’s Chris Learned and Steve Fishbaugh Photo Sophie Braccini “It is important to disseminate this D.D.S. information to parents, so they un- • Download Cecelia Thomas, hris Learned, Assistant Super- been assembled by their intern, derstand why there is some clover in D.D.S. Cintendent of the Acalanes Campolindo Senior Molly How- the fields or weeds along the • “Your” Union High School District land. fences.” She believes that when par- 925.254.0824 (AUHSD), promised a group of par- The list included ten products ents understand that the long term story from ents on September 2nd that AUSHD that had been used by the District health of the children is at stake, they General dentistry done with a cosmetic emphasis to will ban the usage of all pesticides between 2006 and 2008, according readjust their priorities. improve and enhance natural looking smiles. www. and herbicides on its sports fields. to the District’s Pesticide Use Re- Junfish suggested some alter- Adults, Children, Nitrous Oxide, Implant Dentistry, Cosmetic The twelve parents, represent- ports. Of those, Fishbaugh con- native treatments; although the Dis- Dentistry, Invisalign Certified • Complimentary Consultations lamorindaweekly.com ing Parents for a Safer Environment firmed that five were still being used trict staff did not appear to be (PfSE), were pleased; in their view by the District, and 3 of the 5 were convinced that they would work this a major step in protecting our considered high risk by the group: Learned decided nonetheless to stop Lamorinda Public Schools Ace the API children from the dangers of chem- Gopher Getter (contains Strych- the usage of the three products. The icals. nine), Sevin Insecticide (with Car- only pesticide/herbicide that the Dis- By Andrea A. Firth Susan Junfish, founder of baryl for ants) and Turflon trict will use will be Round Up along ll of the school districts in the statewide goal of 800 for the his district’s focus is student learn- PfSE, said, “We have had parents (Triclopyr), an herbicide that is used the edges. According to PfSE that ALamorinda posted positive API, which is scored on a scale of ing, not test scores. However, he ex- with kids going to the Acalanes by the district to control the prolif- product is the least toxic, the only growth in academic performance 200 to 1,000. With many schools in plains that student test performance School District asking us to help eration of clover in the fields. risk is air contamination when high over the past year as measured by the area already achieving scores reviews can sometimes identify gaps evaluate the District’s pest control “Sevin is a likely human car- volumes are spread. the California Department of Edu- above 900, could the districts’ be in learning. For example, a drop in program for years. We had been try- cinogen, a neurotoxin, a hormone The parents finished by ask- cation’s API—academic perform- reaching an API ceiling? AUHSD’s scores at one MSD school revealed ing to meet with the District for a lit- disruptor and a groundwater con- ing to present a request for an Inte- ance index. Acalanes Union High Negri thinks not. “The top API for a that students were learning a meas- tle while after acquiring and taminant” said JunFish, “Gopher grated Pest Management policy to School District (AUHSD), which high school is 985,” states Negri. ured standard after the academic reviewing some tracking documents Getter also can contaminate ground the AUHSD Board. “What you includes Acalanes, Campolindo, and “There is still room for growth as testing was administered. A simple called Pesticide Use Reports.” Jun- water and has high toxicity; besides have just done today is remarkable,” Miramonte High Schools, showed each school demonstrated this year. change in the curriculum resulted in fish added, “We didn’t know what to gophers can become resistant to said Junfish, “but you will move on an improved API score for the fourth I am most interested in the contin- improved scores. “Did the learning expect from the District.” Strychnine so it’s not even the most at some point and it would be effec- consecutive year and continues to ued growth of all students over increase?” asks Schafer. “Probably Learned invited Maintenance effective, and Turflon is a high risk tive to have a policy in place for the rank as the highest performing high time,” he adds. not because these students were Supervisor Steve Fishbaugh to the product containing the developmen- years to come.” Learned agreed to school district in California based on Orinda Union School District’s learning the standard just the timing meeting. Fishbaugh knows exactly tal and reproduction toxin triclopyr.” study the issue, but was not favor- this measure. Superintendent Dr. Joe Jaconette for measuring their mastery was dif- which and when pesticides have Learned was very worried able to formalizing a policy at this “While the API is an impor- (whose district score is 955) ac- ferent than the tests’ timing,” he re- been used by the District. PfSE about the exposure of children to time. tant number…I am most pleased by knowledges that API scores may rise sponds to his own inquiry. came with a list of products and re- these products, and he asked the continuous improvement, which our and fall each year but feels confident So it appears that as the Lam- spective toxicity profiles that had group for their sources of informa- students have demonstrated,” states in the ultimate outcome for his dis- orinda public schools continue to set AUHSD Superintendent Jim Negri. trict. “We realize that our high scores higher academic goals for them- Local Rotary Clubs Give He attributes the District’s academic have the potential for fluctuation and selves, for now they continue to success to a number of factors in- small changes in student achieve- achieve them. “If we are going to Dictionaries to Lamorinda 3rd Graders cluding good quality instruction, ment are readily evident,” states Ja- function as an effective learning or- highly motivated students, increased conette. “As long as our focus ganization, then we have to look at By Jean Follmer to distinguish between extend beyond the membership. In funding from the Measure A parcel remains on students, we believe our the hard data, and consider how we rich or poor or public Lafayette, Tamara Raeth is the wife tax, and a strong partnership with the resulting API will be strong.” might do better next time around,” and private,” said of Lamorinda Sunrise member K through 8th grade feeder districts. And what if the schools’ API states Brill of Lafayette. “Good ed- Chaffey. “Part of it is Thomas Raeth. The Raeths were in Superintendents from the scores drop, what then? Moraga ucators are always considering how to make Lamorinda charge of the Lafayette dictionary three K through 8th districts in Lam- School District (MSD) Superinten- they might improve, regardless of better for everybody. program this year and held the work orinda concurred with Negri’s as- dent Rick Schafer states clearly that their level of success.” Part of it is to make all party at their home. “Two dozen sessment also citing the of the children in Lam- people went to their (the Raeth’s) commitment of staff, stu- Academic Performance Index Scores* Across Lamorinda orinda better future house for a BBQ. We put name dents, parents and commu- District/School 2007 Base 2008 Growth leaders,” continued plates in each of the dictionaries. We nity to the education process Acalanes Union High School District**** 882 886 Chaffey. Steve Ware also affixed a cover letter explaining and funding support from Acalanes 893 896 confirmed Chaffey’s to the parents what we’re doing and parent clubs, PTAs, and the Campolindo 908 909 statement by saying, why,” said Sunrise Rotarian Tom education foundations as a Miramonte 905 916 “It’s all about the Black. Current Lamorinda Sunrise key factor to their successes. Lafayette School Districctt 914 916 kids…they’re the fu- President Pat Flaherty said Tamara “I have been awed by the Burton Valley 935 928 ture.” Both of Ware’s Raeth “has been coordinating this quality of instruction and the Happy Valley 946 938 young daughters are for months.” “This year we have the high levels of student en- Lafayette Elementary 906 924 honorary members of biggest 3rd grade ever. The schools gagement,” reports Dr. Fred Springhill 904 898 the Sunrise club. are at capacity. I have a 3rd grader Brill, Superintendent of the Stanley Intermediate 904 910 The dictionary who’s been waiting to get this,” said Lafeyette School District. Moraga School Districctt 942 947 program began in 1998 Raeth. 448 Lafayette 3rd graders re- Dr. Brill recently returned to Camino Pablo 957 949 when George Chaffey ceived dictionaries this year. Lafayette and took over as Rheem 954 962 was the District 5160 Moraga Rotary Club member the top manager the district. Los Perales 954 959 Tamara Raeth and Steve Hanna await their cue to deliver Governor. They de- Debbie Roessler said their club will “It also helps that our par- Joaquin Moraga Intermediate 929 938 dictionaries to Lafayette Elementary 3rd graders. Tamara's son, cided they wanted to distribute dictionaries later this fall. ents share our high expecta- Orinda Union School Districctt 948 955 Stefan, is a 3rd grader there and Steve's children are alumni participate in a district- Roessler said they engage the stu- tions and provide Del Rey 949 963 Photo Tom Black wide effort and asked dents when they deliver the diction- exceptional support in our Glorietta 948 959 ach year, the Rotary Clubs in District 5160 rotary members for aries and have them look up words schools and in their homes. Sleepy Hollow 977 977 Lamorinda give dictionaries to suggestions. The dictionary idea like “truth” and “fair” to see how Education is highly valued Wagner Ranch 951 955 E our 3rd grade students. Lafayette came from a member in a small club many different meanings there are. in our community,” he adds. Orinda Intermediate 941 948 students receive their dictionaries in Oregon who had seen a 20/20 re- Roessler said the dictionary program All of the Lamorinda *The 2008 Growth API summarizes a district or school performance on the 2008 Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Program and 2008 California High School Exit Examination (CAHSEE) tests. from members of both the Lamor- port on a crossing guard handing out “has been well received in Moraga.” schools scored well above **Also includes scores from Las Lomas and Del Oro High Schools and the Center for Independent Study inda Sunrise Rotary Club and the small dictionaries to students. Orinda Rotary Club member Lafayette Rotary Club. Moraga stu- In that first year, Chaffey said Gail Woznak said they will be de- Lafayette Brownies Provide Backpacks dents are given dictionaries by the 700 district members gathered in livering dictionaries on September Moraga Rotary Club and the Orinda Submitted by Robin Longchamps Concord to receive and label three 24. “Every year the dictionaries are Rotary Club gives them to all truckloads worth of dictionaries. welcomed by both the teachers and Orinda 3rd graders. The Moraga Chaffey said “There were Rotarians students in Orinda. The letters we Rotary Club also gives dictionaries from every club in the district. It get are just amazing. The kids are to the 3rd graders in Canyon. was a big working party.” They dis- so cute and they write these won- All Lamorinda 3rd graders re- tributed 30,000 dictionaries the first derful letters using the words in the After a successful ceive dictionaries at both private and year. Chaffey said the district re- dictionary. We’ve been doing this year of fund raising, public schools. At a recent Lamor- ceived over 15,000 “thank you” for a number of years in Orinda and Lafayette Brownie inda Sunrise Rotary meeting, notes from teachers and students. it’s one of our favorite projects,” said Troop 2050 of Bur- George Chaffey said some folks Since then, the dictionary program Woznak. For more information on ton Valley Elemen- have asked why dictionaries need to has been handled at the local level the dictionary program, visit tary happily be distributed to students in such af- and has spread to many rotary clubs www.rotary5160.org/programs/dic- donated over $200 fluent communities. “This is a Ro- across the country. tionary.php in backpacks and tarian to child (effort). We don’t try The distribution efforts often school supplies to needy families affili- Wagner Ranch Parents Hike the Reservoir Rim Trail ated with Shelter, By Jean Follmer Inc. in Martinez. or the third year in a row, Wagner Ranch El- Way to go, Brown- Fementary School parents met at the Lafayette ies! Reservoir to hike the rim trail before breakfast last week. The hike is an auction item from the an- Lamorinda 4H Kick-off Meeting nual “Parents Night Out” auction held last spring. Submitted by Alison Bodden Parent Coordinator Kim Arnerich said, “We have ow that the summer is over, fun groups to join, including Dog, local Lamorinda 4H Club out, see about 30 people participate. Six moms lead the N4-H is starting up again and Horse, Sewing, Foods, Poultry, what our kids can do, and we'll hike and 6 moms handle the breakfast (while the it promises to be another great Swine, Woodworking, Shooting answer any questions you may others are hiking).” Arnerich said “It’s a great year! Come and check out our Sports, Photography and many, have. time to reconnect and meet new people. We get kick-off Community Meeting on many more. There is something Please visit our website at September 18, 2008, at 7PM in for everyone, and we welcome http://groups.ucanr.org/ccc4h/ exercise, breakfast and it’s social.” the Stanley Middle School Multi- all; boys and girls age 5 to 18 or call Michelle Chan at (925) Purpose Room. We have many years. Come on by to check your 283-9519. Wednesday, September 17, 2008 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Page: 15 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Acalanes High School • Bentley School • Burton Valley • Camino Lafayette Elementary • Los Perales • Miramonte • Orinda Academy Pablo Campolindo • Contra Costa Jewish Day School • Del Rey Orinda Intermediate • Saklan Valley School • Sleepy Hollow Donald L. Rheem • Glorietta • Happy Valley • Joaquin Moraga Lamorinda Schools Springhill • Stanley Middle • St. Perpetua School • Wagner Ranch Where Everyone Belongs or Welcome Every Body: Girl Power: Lafayette Troops WEB is the Way to Middle School Forming, Interested Girls Invited By Sophie Braccini irl Scouts of the USA is the tential and self-worth. says OIS Vice-Principal Ron Gworld’s preeminent organi- Every day, Girl Scouts are Langer, who originated the program zation dedicated solely to girls—all creating positive change and inspir- with art teacher Susan Weiss. girls—where, in an accepting and ing others with their dedication and The program is now run by nurturing environment, girls build inventiveness. New troops are Diane Brode and Jennifer Wagner. character and skills for success in forming, all age levels, kindergarten They highlight that WEB is more the real world. In partnership with through high school, find out what's than just orientation day, throughout committed adult volunteers, girls happening in Lafayette. Contact: the year the students will participate develop qualities that will serve Linda Bailey Wurgley, Member- in parties such as a Valentine’s Day them all their lives, like leadership, ship Director, Grantsky1@com- event or a group skate. Addition- strong values, social conscience, cast.net, 925-330-8222. ally, the WEB leaders work with and conviction about their own po- small groups of 6th graders on top- ics such as feeling confident to ask questions, or how harmful rumors can be. At JM, too, 6th graders will Brass Instruction be reunited with their WEB leaders for monthly activities during the trumpet-trombone-french horn-baritone-tuba-sax school year. (all styles including jazz band auditions prep) Stanley’s Buddy program is more a one-on-one experience with CA credentialed music teacher with references Back row (L-R): JM WEB leader Mina Lucacher, Patti Forester, Heidi Felt, Annette Finnane and Annette Herbert; one 6th grader paired with an 8th Front row, new 6th graders Photo Sophie Braccini grader. “The students meet once be- 925-705-3119 or [email protected] fore school begins, and ice breakers etting foot for the first time in School (Stanley) in Lafayette, half graders on WEB day. are organized like a scavenger hunt. middle school can be intimidat- of the 6th graders (150) were paired “I asked to become a WEB S The 6th graders get to ask questions ing. The campus is larger, students with almost as many 8th graders. leader because I had a rough time in about teachers, schedules, or home- have to move to different class- At JM, School Counselor 7th grade and I thought that if I work. Once they’re paired they Veronicas House Cleaners rooms during the day, and sixth Heidi Felt started the program two could make a difference for some- meet once a week the first two or graders go from being at the top of years ago. “Our former principal, body, then I should,” said Mina Lu- three weeks of schools at lunch. the elementary school food chain to Catherine Mikes, put WEB into my cacher, who enjoyed the training After that the 6th graders are com- being the little guys. To ease the job description when I was hired,” and the first WEB day. Free Estimates fortable.” Westcoat noticed the in- transition, middle schools organize said Felt. Emily Holbrook was in Referrals Available creasing number of boys who welcome days during which eighth The PTA, parents and teacher Mina’s group of 6th graders, and participate in the program. The pro- graders mentor the 6th graders and volunteers support the program and she said, “It was really fun to learn gram started in 2002, at first just 925 458 6386 home make them feel good about their it really took off this year with twice about JM, see and meet new people with girls, now for a couple of years new school. The programs are as many 8th graders volunteering and get your schedule.” Emily 925 639 2393 cell both genders participate and for the called WEB days in Moraga and and events scheduled during the added that the day helped her a lot first time this year there were more Orinda and Buddy Days in whole school year. since she was very nervous about 6th grade boys than girls, so a few Lafayette. “The 8th graders volunteer a attending a new school; she felt Engaging Minds 8th grade boys had two buddies. Games, talk and fun are at the significant amount of time,” ex- much better about it afterwards. She In the three schools, the adults Inspiring Creativity heart of the programs and both 8th plains Felt. “They apply for a WEB hopes to be a WEB leader herself in in charge highlight the dedication of and 6th graders seem to appreciate leader position in late spring and 2 years. Enriching Lives the 8th graders who participate, it. Most 6th graders participated this once selected (with parent permis- The training is similar at “I’m constantly impressed by the year in Moraga and Orinda (over sion), they attend a three-period Orinda Intermediate School (OIS) 8th graders,” says Westcoat, “they 200 in each school), while 64 8th spring play (training day). In the where the program has been in ex- have a real sense of concern and are graders were WEB leaders at fall, prior to WEB day, they attend istence for 8 years. “We know that very kind, they always go well be- Orinda Intermediate School (OIS) two days of training where they are the more contact a sixth grader has 5th Grade educational trip yond what is expected.” Marin Headlands, 2008 and 79 at Joaquin Moraga Interme- taught games and a research-based with his/her WEB Leader the more diate (JM). At Stanley Middle curriculum to work with the 6th successful the sixth grader will be,” PRESCHOOL THROUGH 8TH GRADE ADMISSIONS INFORMATION Peter Varellas Visits Camino Pablo School Limited Openings for the 2008-09 school year. Send story ideas to: WEEKLY TOURS - 8:30am - 10:00am October 3, 10, 17, November 21 By Sophie Braccini November 7 - Middle School Tour storydesk@ November 14 - Kindergarten Tour Please register online at www.saklan.org lamorindaweekly.com OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 9, 2008 from 2:00 – 4:00 pm 1678 School Street Parents & students are both welcome to attend. Moraga,CA 94556 or call 925-377-0977 Admissions Contact: 925.376.7900 925-376-7900 x16 or [email protected] www.saklan.org

One source, One commitment Specialists of stone & tile installation. Custom natural & engineering stone countertops, Cabinetry & High-End Fixtures. Also servicing tear out & preparation. Your expert source in customizing your remodeling needs. Showroom hours: Mon-Fri 8:00- 5:00, Sat 10:00-4:00 2500 Teagarden St. Suite B San Leandro CA 94577 Peter Varellas talks to Mrs. Laughland’s class Photo Neil Jennings T: 510-347-1818 n Friday the 12th, Peter Laughland, still a 2nd grade came to school. “He was very gra- www.nckb.com OVarellas, a member of the teacher.. “He was a great kid, liked cious, very poised,” said the de- Silver medal-winning US Men's by everybody, always very happy, lighted teacher, “he talked to the Water Polo team, paid a visit to his and I taught his sister, too.” Laugh- kids about setting goals and getting 2nd grade teacher Katie Laughland land followed the success of her ex- there step by step and the kids got at Camino Pablo Elementary student in the Olympics and called it!” Laughland was impressed with School in Moraga. “He was in the his parents’ house. The young man how well he worked with the kids, first class that I ever had,” said called back, and he and his sister and interacted with everyone. Get Out Your Checkbooks for Fall Fundraising By Jean Follmer f you have school age children, your opportunity to help out your school, he is learning the compli- Iyou probably just paid your friend’s kid’s school way over on cated art of selling. Even if you Alain Pinel Realtors back-to-school fees. In addition to the other side of town. Truth be don’t make a purchase, you are still the required registration fees, you told, I’ve already contacted a friend helping Johnny learn sales skills. revolutionized Bay Area real estate may have also stroked checks for from another school and asked her An important part of selling is some optional fees. The additional to give me the heads up when her learning to deal with rejection and practices in 1990. spending opportunities likely in- son starts selling Sally Foster wrap- thinking of ways to turn “no” into cluded extravagances like TB tests, ping paper. I love their stuff! Most “yes”. There are plenty of folks that Nearly two decades later, of the paper has a grid on the back don’t buy Girl Scout cookies from an entire wardrobe of Spiritwear for we still are. each family member and a “volun- and that enables me to more easily my daughter when she rings their we still are. tary” donation to the PTA or PFC. cut the straight line that my gift re- bell and she’s learning to under- As satisfying as the back-to-school cipients so clearly appreciate. Plus, stand that “no” is part of the We are proud to call and fall activity spending spree may that way I will experience zero guilt process. Those rejections provide Lamorinda our neighborhood. have been, many of you will soon when my daughter hits her up to opportunities for parents to assure have an opportunity to pull out your purchase Girl Scout cookies next and remind their children that the checkbooks again! For what you spring. answer is not always “yes”. If it After all, we’re neighbors, too. ask? Well, gift wrap, entertainment Think of it as an early start to were, what would they strive for? books and perhaps an earthquake the holidays… OK, enough on the There are many reasons why some- preparedness kit that includes a silliness. When your doorbell rings one may not be in a position to portable toilet. and you see little Johnny on the make a purchase, but the interaction If your school (like my kids’ doorstep clutching his sales sheet, can still be viewed positively and school) has elected not to hold a fall consider opening the door. In addi- used as a learning opportunity. ORINDA | 2 Theatre Square, Suite 215 925.258.1111 fundraiser this year, consider this as tion to trying to raise money for his LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 16 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 Acalanes High School • Bentley School • Burton Valley • Camino Lafayette Elementary • Los Perales • Miramonte • Orinda Academy Pablo Campolindo • Contra Costa Jewish Day School • Del Rey Orinda Intermediate • Saklan Valley School • Sleepy Hollow Donald L. Rheem • Glorietta • Happy Valley • Joaquin Moraga Lamorinda Schools Springhill • Stanley Middle • St. Perpetua School • Wagner Ranch

School Calendar Children’s Book Authors in Lamorinda School Governing Board Meetings Moraga School District By Andrea A. Firth he Bay Area has long been the Acalanes Union Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School Auditorium home to and source of inspi- High School District T 1010 Camino Pablo, Moraga ration for many authors, and Lam- Board Room AUHSD Office orinda is no exception. Local 1212 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lafayette Joint Meeting with Moraga Town Council Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 7:30 pm children’s book authors Deborah Wednesday. Sept. 17 at 7:30 pm Wednesday, Oct. 1 at 7:30 pm Trotter, Maddie Dychtwald, and Ginger Wadsworth have taken var- Lafayette School District Orinda Union School District ied paths to print; however, they OUSD Office LAFSD Office have each put their passion and ex- 3477 School Street, Lafayette 8 Altarinda Road, Orinda perience into their work in words. Monday, Oct. 13 at 7:00 pm Monday, Oct. 13 at 4:00 pm Deborah Totter Deborah Trotter, a twenty- Michael Simon to Talk at year resident of Moraga, has spent Campo About Adolescent Behaviors several years refining her writing craft and learning the ropes of the By Sophie Braccini publishing world. Now with two Trotter started writing chil- her home in the Bluffs to Cam- a Navajo trading post. The book’s ichael Simon’s biggest con- talk as well about alcohol and drug children’s books published—A dren’s books when her offspring polindo High School. As she ap- publisher specializes in stories set in Mcern is with the sanity and use, will touch on sexuality and will Summer’s Trade (2007) and How were young. “Of course as a mother, proached the intersection of Rheem the Indian community, and the story, well being of our teenagers. The explain how to handle difficult dis- Do You Know? (2006)—Trotter can you read books to your kids,” states Boulevard and Moraga Road, the which is written in both English and marriage and family licensed thera- cussions, depending on the student’s confidently claim the title of chil- Trotter. “ Some are wonderful and shopping center and the school up the Navajo language, appeals to a pist has had a private practice in age. dren’s book author. But it’s not about some are awful.” A life-long student, the way were shrouded in fog. “Be- wide range of readers and ages. Rockridge for 13 years, he was the In his Rockridge private prac- titles and recognition for Trotter who Trotter’s ability to write for children cause we could not actually see the “I’m never short of ideas,” Director of Counseling at Bentley tice Simon meets adolescents who, seems to have been able to strike a is essentially self-taught. “I read buildings, I pointed out to the kids states Trotter. “I want to keep writ- School in Lafayette until last year for the most part, have difficulty comfortable balance between her about the process. I studied how to that the school might not be there.” ing, and I want to keep publishing.” when the position became full time, handling the stress and pressure to writing pursuits and the demands of do it. And I kept writing,” she adds. She received the typically teenage But like many writers she talks and is an acclaimed speaker who ap- meet their parents’ expectation and her family—with family coming Despite Trotter’s assiduous response of ‘Yeah, right mom’, but about the need for ‘bum glue’ or that pears at conferences all over the find their dreams. “They have to first. work ethic, success was not imme- the idea stuck with Trotter who then special something that keeps one country. On Thursday October 2nd, look the best, get into the best A native of northern Califor- diate. Like many who venture into set her story on a farm where a seated in front of the computer and Simon will return to the Acalanes schools and they lose sight of what nia, Trotter graduated from law the writing world, Trotter received young child and mother explore the away from the distractions of daily School district with a free talk for the they want and what they feel,” says school through the UC system and pleasant but brief rejection letters comings and goings of the mist. life. “I don’t even have internet ac- community in the Campolindo High Simon. To handle the pressure, they spent her early career working first from publishers in response to her Trotter likes to write stories cess on the computer that I use to School library, starting at 7 p.m. He have sex earlier, drink or do drugs, as a registrar at the Stanford Law early manuscripts. Even her first that have an educational focus, and write, so I eliminate that diversion,” will present “Parent Primer, a Year- or engage in dangerous behaviors to School Library and later as a litiga- published book, How Do You through her research she has recog- states Trotter. Now with child num- to-Year Guide of What to Expect in draw attention to themselves. On tor in a large law firm. But as chil- Know?, took three years from the nized the value of the niche market ber three off to Stanford in Septem- High School.” the surface they are very successful, dren started to arrive in the Trotter time of submission to reach store in the publishing. Having grown up ber, and just one more left at home, According to Simon, one ele- but the suffering is present deeper household—she had four in regular bookshelves. in the small ranching town of Red Trotter may find she has more time ment in reducing adolescent stress is inside. “When you grow up in an intervals—she took down the The inspiration for How Do Bluff and having traveled exten- to focus her muse. to get parents not to worry too much affluent democracy you get the mes- lawyer shingle and turned her atten- You Know? came to Trotter on the sively through the Southwest, Trot- For more information visit her themselves and stay connected to sage that if you don’t succeed, since tion to writing. daily morning drive to school from ter chose to base her second book at web site at www.deborahwtrotter.com their students. “My presentation everyone is equal, there must be will help parents to understand each something wrong with you,” says Maddy Dychtwald credit from this publisher,” she adds who read the book—kids, parents, ten years until a chance meeting led grade level’s development and get a Simon. In addition, the media sets “You can have a new begin- proudly. “It truly was a group effort. and grandparents—to recognize that them to Dave Zaboski, a well- good sense why their kids are doing the standard of the only way to suc- ning no matter how old your are,” We just had a great time writing it.” change at any age is known Disney animator. Once they what they’re doing; what’s normal cess, and adolescents have more and states Maddy Dychtwald, a twenty- Dychtwald and her husband truly liber- connected with Zaboski, the process and what’s not.” more difficulty keeping up with ex- year resident of Orinda and the au- first began thinking about writing a to publication moved very quickly. For example, in 11th grade the pectations. Simon is finishing a thor of Gideon’s Dream: A Tale of children’s book several years ago “We had a revised manu- parents are very conscious of how book with Laura Konigsberg about New Beginnings, the story of a cater- when their two children were script and important the results of that year are status and teens. It discusses whether pillar’s transformation to a butterfly. young. “We noticed the mes- artist render- for college admission, while at this there is only one way of succeeding Dychtwald co-authored her chil- sages that were being addressed ings in about age their children need to reinforce at life, and how anxiety over status dren’s book debut with husband Ken in children’s books. None of six months,” the wall between themselves and rules our teens' lives. The provoca- and Grace Zaboski, the young the books talked about what notes Dycht- their parents. “They talk less and tive title will be “How to Hate Your- daughter of the book’s illustrator. happened as you got older wald. less, especially when they get into self.” “Grace was the critical eye of the and aged or the idea of sec- “It was great trouble, when a 9th grader will still The 90 minute presentation target audience. She read the manu- ond chances,” she states. ride. It’s been a talk, and over-exaggerate the good will be followed by a question and script, looked at the drawings, and Aging and second chances new beginning for part of what’s going on.” Simon answer period. It is sponsored by provided important feedback that we have long been a focus us with publishing will give parents ways to stay close the Campolindo Parents’ Club and incorporated in our revisions,” ex- for the Dychtwalds who our first children’s and supportive to their offspring the Acalanes High School District plains Dychtwald. “She was the founded a marketing book,” she states. Dy- whatever stage they are in. He will Adult Education Center. youngest person to receive an author and communications chtwald and her writing firm, Age Wave, 17 partner husband already Getting Organized in the Senior Year years ago. “It’s gener- have an idea for their next By Elizabeth LaScala, Ph.D. ational marketing. We forecast children’s book, so the lifestyle and consumer marketing ating.” challenge will be fitting to send information to colleges checklist and think about where trends among the emerging mature In contrast to that project in with their • Make an appointment with the they will be next year around this marketplace, the boomer genera- most children’s books, where the business ventures and their school counselor to review col- time. Start early! Getting all the tion,” she explains. publisher chooses the illustrator, the new life as empty-nesters as lege plans and get advice. information, keeping it organized “Nobody likes changes,” Dychtwalds wanted to find the artist their youngest child heads of to col- • Verify the accuracy of school and on track is not a matter of in- notes Dychtwald who uses the cater- who could deliver the look they en- lege. transcripts and assess eligibility telligence—it is a matter of time pillar’s metamorphosis to represent visioned for their story. Their first For more information visit her for the University of California and discipline. Every family with life change. “We wanted anyone manuscript draft sat unpublished for web site www.maddydychtwald.com (UC) as well as the California a college bound student needs to State University (CSU) campuses decide how to handle the timing Ginger Wadsworth children about 30 years ago just a ther’s old books that contained his • Note that the UC and CSU and complexities of college ad- A veritable veteran of the children’s few years before she settled in handwritten notations. “My husband th deadline is November 30 ; missions. There are many re- book writing world, Ginger Orinda with her husband and two and I could not believe the coinci- private school deadlines are sources at our fine schools and Wadsworth sits comfortably in her boys that would follow. She bal- dence,” she states excitedly. typically later our counselors are first rate. living room where an illustration of anced writing with working as a Wadsworth’s second book • Complete standardized testing There are excellent books and a wooly mammoth from the cover teacher’s aid at Del Rey School. will tell the tale of a camping trip requirements; these tests were websites, and good organizational of one of her recent books hangs After taking a class on Bay Area ar- taken by naturalist John Muir and imes have changed and get- best taken at least once before the tools (like simple paper folder above the fire- chitects, Wadsworth discovered the President Teddy Roosevelt. “The Tting into college is much senior year; if necessary, register systems color-coded by topic). place. With her subject matter book is really written as historical different than it was even five for appropriate SAT or ACT test- One important resource is an in- constant compan- for fiction,” she explains. “The camping years ago. Selecting a college is a ing and note that 2 SAT subject dependent college advisor. These ions, golden re- trip did happen, but the only big decision, and both public and tests in different disciplines are re- professionals are accessible to trievers Willa and written account is a private schools are more compet- quired by UC their clients whenever there is a Scout, at her side, report itive. Going through the college • Attend talks by college repre- question or concern. Independent Wadsworth by the admissions process can seem sentatives who visit your school, advisors should be well qualified launches into a one of daunting, especially to seniors attend college fairs, make campus and experienced, belong to pro- discussion of the pack- who must kick into overdrive to visits, research college websites fessional organizations, and have one of her life- ers which accomplish the tasks associated and guide books excellent references from clients long passions— provides with a college search and the ap- • Go to each college’s website, who have used their services. writing. limited in- plication process. And, of course, check admission requirements, Their services should be based on Wadsworth has formation.” this effort is in addition to aca- download and review application four values: sound advice, in- authored sev- Creating the demics, sports, volunteerism and forms for colleges that make it to tegrity, respect and confidential- eral children’s interaction be- jobs. the final list ity. With all the resources in our books and tween the two Our community has fine • Ask teachers for recommenda- community, students can stay on usually has famous men was high schools and counselors. Yet tions as soon as the list of colleges track for college! For prior arti- one or two the fun part of the school counselors have their is finalized (no later than Novem- cles in this series visit new books in writing adventure hands full keeping their caseloads ber 1st —busy teachers need time www.lamorindaweekly.com the publica- for Wadsworth. on track academically. Essen- to write recommendations) tion process, but her first Although she tially it is the responsibility of the • Work with the counseling of- break into print did not come easily. one of her claims to be dis- early books—a biogra- tracted easily, student, with support from family, fice to make sure it has what it Elizabeth LaScala, Ph.D. works “I wrote for seven years and didn’t phy of architect Julia Morgan. “I Wadsworth remains to fully engage in the process of needs to send off the Secondary as an independent college sell a thing,” notes Wadsworth who was fascinated by her houses and the devoted to her craft and selecting and applying to col- School Report and Counselor Let- advisor in Lafayette. Dr. LaS- refused to use her father’s connec- hidden places that she would incor- sits down to write for several hours leges. Each college a student ap- ter of Recommendation cala draws on 20 years of ex- tions (he was also a writer) or to porate in the design,” notes each day. “Now that my husband is plies to should be a good fit—one • Review essays and personal perience in higher education publish under her maiden name to Wadsworth. “To this day, if I see a semi-retired, the house is no longer where the student can spend 4 statements on each application; and research to customize the expedite her career. “I’m feisty like Morgan house for sale in the area, I just my mine during the day, and happy and productive years. Here write drafts and finalize college search and admission that,” she states. will try to go see it.” that changes everything,” states is a check list of some basic tasks • Check and apply to appropri- process for students and their A self-described research to accomplish during fall semes- families. She has 3 daugh- junkie, Wadsworth, who typically She has two new books that Wadsworth with a laugh. Then quot- ate scholarships (often schools will be published in the upcoming ing a line from a very senior chil- ter of senior year: that have college and career cen- ters—one a graduate of Cal gears her work to the young reader, writes about nature and the people year. One is the story of a young dren’s book author who has served • Complete a college search of ters post opportunities on a regu- Poly (San Luis Obispo), one a sophomore at MIT and the and world around us. “I love to write man named Moses who survives a as an inspiration, Wadsworth adds, “best fit” colleges that include lar basis) youngest, a junior in high for the second to third-grade age harrowing adventure after getting “As long as the grey hair underneath reach, good bets and almost cer- • Understand how these tasks school. group,” states Wadsworth. “I spend lost in the snow. Wadsworth seemed is still working, I’ll be writing.” tain to get in options. differ for Early Action and Early Dr. LaScala can be contacted a lot of time researching for my writ- destined to write the story when she For more information visit her • Find out and keep track of Decision applicants at [email protected] ing, and I really enjoy it.” came across a newspaper clipping web site www.gingerwadsworth.com deadlines related to what the high High school juniors and or (925) 891-4491. Wadsworth started writing for about the same boy among her fa- school counseling office requires their parents can review this Wednesday, September 17, 2008 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Page: 17 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Not to be missed Not to be missed Not to be missed media techniques. Gallery Hours are Tuesday, Sept 30, at 7 p.m., the First Annual Orinda Restaurant Donuts, and Fishing Hole. Enjoy two MUSIC-THEATER Tuesday to Saturday, 11 am to 5 pm. Orinda Library presents a Fireside OTHER Tour-Tuesday, Sept 30th - 5:00 to 8:30 new Earth-conscious, hands-on activi- 925-284-2788, www.lafayettegallery.net Chat with Susan Handjian, Water Con- pm. Food lovers will have the opportu- ties this year: 50 foot long Solar Bags Orinda Starlight Village Players pres- servation Representative from East Bay Free Fishing Day at San Pablo Reser- nity to join a fun, expeditionary culinary that float up to 50 feet in the air and a 6 ents “A Bedful of Foreigners,” by David On Saturday, Sept. 27th Pacific Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) voir Recreation Area! Saturday Sep- tour to savor and sample their way foot canvas Earth Ball. There is face Freeman, Sept. 19th, 20th, 21st, 25th, Wildlife Galleries will host a reception about “ Becoming a Mediterranean tember 27th. No Fishing License or through Orinda restaurants. The cost of painting, temporary tattoos, used cos- 26th, & 27th. Orinda Community Cen- Gardner.” She will also discuss the cur- Daily Permit Required! (Parking is an individual ticket will be $30 with tume sales, pumpkin carving, a decorat- ter Outside Amphitheater, Orinda Com- rent drought situation and bring exam- $6.50) San Pablo is open from 6:30 a.m. EFO receiving $10 from every ticket ing contest and much more. munity Center Park. Tickets at Box ples of plants to use in our warmer to 7:00 p.m. and offers picnicking, sold. www.orindachamber.org. Office or call (925) 253-1191 or 255- environment. Free. For more informa- kayak and boat rentals, bbq’ing a chil- Las Trampas Celebrates 50 years- 3295 (after 7 pm). tion, please call (925) 254-2184 or visit dren’s playground and a café. Pets are Sunday, Oct 5. "OktoberFest". From Thursday October 16 11am to 2pm the library website at ccclib.org. also welcome in the park on leash. 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Join us at our an- The special event is open to the public Lafayette’s Town Hall Theater’s pres- 7301 San Pablo Dam Rd. in El Sobrante nual fund raiser at St. Perpetua in and features an open house with tours of ents “The Graduate,” Sept 13 – Oct 11. Maximizing Your Memory-Tues 9/23 between Orinda and Richmond. Lafayette for great food, traditional our campus, client art display, live music A hit on the West End and a popular - 10:30am - Noon. A presenter from the (510)223-1661. drinks, fun games for kids and adults and refreshments and raffle prizes. Las show on Broadway, The Graduate Alzheimer’s Association, will tell us alike and a silent auction of exceptional Trampas is a non-profit organization brings the quintessential movie sensa- how to tell the difference between nor- The 13th Annual Lafayette Art & donated gift baskets. 3454 Hamlin Road, dedicated since 1958 to enhancing the tion of the sixties and one of the most mal memory loss and dementia. In an in- Wine Festival, featuring art, wine, beer, Lafayette, CA 94549;925-283-0272 or quality of life for people with develop- popular films of all time to life on stage. formative and interactive workshop music, and shopping, is scheduled for www.stperpetua.org."" mental disabilities. Las Trampas’ cam- Contact the Town Hall Theatre Com- setting, Maximizing Your Memory will Saturday, Sept 20 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., pus (3460 Lana Lane, Lafayette). For pany Box Office for exact dates and cover tips and strategies for improving and Sunday, Sept 21, from 10 a.m. to 6 Mount Diablo Challenge-Sunday, Oc- more information, please call Bonnie times. Not for children under 12. 925- memory. Lafayette Senior Services, p.m., in downtown Lafayette. Free tober 5th. The Mount Diablo Challenge Peacock at (925) 284-1462 ext. 239. 283-1557, www.thtc.org. 500 Saint Mary’s Rd. (925)284-5050 parking is available at the Lafayette is a 10.8 mile timed bike ride, starting at Photos in Calendar images BART station, Black Tie Transportation Athenian School in Danville and climb- Please submit Kids and Teens and our own Lamorinda Spirit will run a ing up Southgate Road 3,249 feet to the Songbird Tonette Jeanine (aka d for Master Artist Carl Benders, an in- free event shuttle to and from the BART summit of Mount Diablo. All proceeds T.J.), will be bringing her own unique events to: ternationally known wildlife artist who FREE Movie Night -Disney's RATA- parking lots. benefit Save Mount Diablo’s land con- style of R&B / Funk to Joe's of paints with incredible detail and realism. TOUILLE –Saturday Sept 20th at servation efforts. Registration cost is Lafayette on Friday, Sept 26th, 7pm- calendar@lamor- He will be available for signing his new 7:45pm. Willow Spring Church, 1689 Sunday Tour of Homes-Orinda- $50.00. To register please visit 10pm Free, no cover charge 3707 Mt book “Pride of Place.” 5pm-8pm. Also School Street, Moraga 925.376.3550 for view 6-8 homes in one afternoon. www.savemountdiablo.org or www.ac- Diablo Blvd 925-299-8807 T. J. has indaweekly.com appearing at the reception will be a live more info. Popcorn and sodas for a FREE! Next Tour Dates: Sept 21st at tive.com. No Day-Of registration. a three octave range, and her voice is red tail hawk and a live Eurasian Eagle small donation. 1:00pm or October 7th at 1:00pm. "as rich as it is powerful!" With her Owl. The Gallery is located at 3420 Mr. www.SundayTourNow.com 800-414- "Communication Is The Key To Suc- soulful and distinctive tones, she t Diablo Blvd, Lafayette. 925-283-2977. ODYSSEY OF THE MIND - Do you 4045 ID# 4073 cess" - Do you make contact, but not emotes passion in everything that she have a creative child? Does your child really connect? Are your relationships sings. www.tjeanine.com. d Lindsay Wildlife Museum -Vanishing like the challenge of solving a problem Saint Mary’s College 6th Annual thriving or stagnant? How do you rate Wildlife- Through November 16. Wa- where there is no wrong answer and "out Graduate Business Golf Tournament your personal and professional commu- Onstage Theatre presents “ Helen’s tercolor and mixed-media by Rita Sklar of the box" thinking is rewarded? Come – Tuesday, 9/23/08… All Saint Mary’s nication skills? This workshop can Most Favorite Day” by Mark Dunn, Di- Vanishing Wildlife depicts American, to the informational meeting held at the College alumni + guests are invited. change your life. Learn how to become rected by Helen Means. Love at 'second European, Latin American and African Moraga Library on Wednesday, Sept 24, 11:30am check-in, 1pm shotgun start - a skilled communicator and increase sight' and a magic wish doom Helen to wildlife. Critics describe her paintings as 2008 at 7:00 PM to find out more about $150/golfer which includes awards/net- your business and enhance your rela- repeat the best day of her life ad infini- Rheem a mix of abstraction and realism, giving this international educational program working dinner. Diablo Country Club. tionships. Presented by Marian tum, unless she can be rescued by those the paintings a feeling of movement and that provides creative problem–solving Please register at http://www.stmarys- Woodard, business coach and partner in nearest and dearest to her. Sept 19 -Oct Theater immediacy and praise them as capturing opportunities for students from kinder- ca.edu/mbagolf. The Quantum Business. October 8, 11, Ticket prices: $15 general and $12 the subtle mood of the mystery of nature. garten through college. 5:30-7:30pm (light meal included), 350 Park Street students/ seniors. Reservations: (925) Lindsay Wildlife Museum, 1931 First The Lafayette Community Founda- Orinda Library - Garden Room, $10.00. 944-9006. School House Culture Cen- Moraga r Avenue, Walnut Creek. www.wildlife- Come join "BLAST! Kids Club" held tion is accepting grant applications for Sponsored by: Women's Business Con- ter, 2050 Oak Park Blvd corner of museum.org. every Friday night from 6-8pm for Fall 2008. All local community organi- nection of Lamorinda. For more infor- ( 988-3411 Pleasant Hill Rd in Pleasant Hill. Kindergarten through 5th grade. We zations are encouraged to apply by Sept mation call: 925.283.7546. LECTURES & LITERATURE provide a safe and caring environment 30th. Award decisions will be an- Youth Theatre Company is currently where we play games, create awesome nounced in November. For details on Moraga-Orinda Fire District Open accepting registrations for its Mini Kids Thursday, Sept 18 from 3:00 p.m. to projects, and learn important lessons. how to apply for a grant, visit our web- House- Saturday, Oct 11, 2008, from Theatre and Kids Theatre and will hold Sept 19 6:45 p.m., the Quake Cottage, a mobile Parents can take the night off and have a site at www.lafayettecommunityfounda- 10am to 3pm located at Station 41 – auditions for Junior Theatre and Teen GHOST TOWN earthquake simulator, will be available "date night" without hiring a babysitter. tion.org or contact the Grants 1280 Moraga Way in Moraga. There Theatre Sept. 20 – 25. Junior Theatre MY BEST FRIEND’S GIRL at Lafayette Library. The public is in- Free. Kids interact with students from Committee at _lafayettecom- will be a "Jaws of Life" extrication runs from Oct. 7 – May 3 and includes vited to feel the strength of Mother Na- all over: Camino Pablo, Burton Valley, [email protected] atten- demo, rope rescue demo, fire extin- productions of "Willy Wonka" and Sept 26 ture! At 7:00pm, the Library will host Glorietta and Rheem Elementary. For tion Serita. LCF has given more than guisher training sessions, infant/child car "The Wizard of Oz." Teen Theatre runs NIGHTS IN RODANTHE a seminar on earthquakes. Following more info call Zach Diestler Willow $170,000 in grants since inception in late seat inspections and installations, gas Oct. 7 – April 25 and features produc- EAGLE EYE the presentation, winners will be cho- Spring Church, Moraga Children's Min- 1999; as well as raising over $12.5 mil- and electrical safety demos, and small tions of "Once On This Island" and animal CPR. Meet Smokey the Bear or sen for a 270-piece START II emer- istry. 925.631.1894 lion toward the new Lafayette Library. Oct 3 "Wicked." Call 925.943-5846 for au- play in the bouncy house. Each child gency medical kit and an emergency BEVERLY HILLS dition appointment. will receive a free firefighter hat and survival backpack kit for 4 people for 3 Kidz in the Kitchen is a fun & excit- Widowed Persons Support will be CHIHUAHUA days. Lafayette Library, 952 Moraga ing way to introduce your kids to gour- offering a series of six GRIEF SUP- other cool things to take home. Bring the Piano Jazz Café at the Lafayette Com- Road, Lafayette 925-283-3872 met cooking & healthy meals. Classes PORT GROUP MEETINGS. The oldest fire extinguisher you can find to munity Center Friday 10/10-1:30pm – FLASH!! for Ages 4-6 and Ages 7-12 See next series of Grief Support Group the Open House, and you might win a 2:30pm. The music varies from show Internationally renowned antiwar ac- www.moraga.ca.us for fees, times, and Meetings will be on Saturdays from brand new fire extinguisher and personal Our new air conditioning system tunes and jazz standards to original com- tivist, Kathy Kelly, will tell a personal registration. 10 a.m. to Noon. Sept 20, 27, Oct 4, earthquake kit! is installed and working at 100%. positions. There is no charge but, a account of her many harrowing and 11. St. Stephen’s Church, 66 St. Be cool and stay cool at your small donation would be appreciated. moving experiences in Iraq before and Tuesdays, Sept 23 and 30, 4:00 p.m.— Stephens Drive, Orinda. There is no Pumpkin Patch will be held at Del Rheem Theatre. Light refreshments are offered. Located during the war, while working and liv- Rey School, 25 El Camino Moraga in Crafty Storytime—Moraga Library. charge and no reservation need. For Please give us your thoughts and at 500 Saint Mary’s Rd. RSVP ing among the Iraqi people. Kathy Kelly Orinda on Saturday October 11th from Stories and crafts for ages 3-7. A fun information call: (925) 932-3448. ideas as we spruce up and refur- (925)284-5050 and Activist Poet David Smith-Ferri noon to 3pm. Top Dog will cater it and time for your youngsters. bish our RHEEM THEATRE Saturday, Sept 27, 1:00 PM, Rossmoor, admission is $8.50 per person, which in- Bedford Gallery, a program of the City Email us at [email protected] ART Sierra Room, Del Valle Bldg. For more cludes all traditional activities such as Wednesdays, Sept 24 Moraga Li- of Walnut Creek, offers many enriching Jim Sheehan and Tom Peterson information, contact Bob Hanson at brary: Lapsit 10:00 am stories, songs volunteer opportunities. Through vol- Lucky Ducks, Dunk Tank, Big Card The Luck Of The Draw” Artwork on 925-944-3366. and bounces for baby and caregiver. unteering, you can take part in the be- Spin, Pinewood Derby Ramp, Dangling display at Fastframe of Lafayette. Local Toddler Time, 10:45 am stories, hind-the-scenes activities of the gallery elementary school children entered their Wed., Sept. 24th, 7:30 p.m. Dennis rhymes and fun for ages 2—3-1/2 with as you learn about contemporary art and Saint Mary’s College artwork in a drawing coordinated by Barker D.C. presents "Eat away the adult participation. artists of the Bay Area. Join us for Vol- Campus Happenings LASF, and the lucky winners received pain" discussion on how to eat to lose unteer Recruitment Day on Monday, M.F.A. from the University of Iowa complimentary custom framing from weight while relieving and preventing Thursday, Sept 25 at 4 p.m., the Sept 22, from 10:00 a.m. Visitors can Writers’ Workshop. The author of Fastframe. The artwork will be dis- pain. Location: Curves Lafayette, 3534 Orinda Library presents a Beading stay for a free tour of the exhibition. "Mistaking the Sea for Green played in Fastframe’s window during Golden Gate Way, Lafayette. Gifts/Dis- Workshop for Teens. Grades 6 to 12 are Fields," which won the 2005 Akron the Art & Wine Sept 20-21and through counts/Raffle. RSVP 925-962-0206. invited to come learn the basics of bead- It's the world's hottest dance and Salsa mid-November. An opening reception Seating limited. ing and will create their own necklace. dancing is fun, playful, healthy…and Poetry Prize, Capps has held fel- for these young artists will be held on All materials will be provided. Space is easy to learn. And on Monday nights, lowships from the Wisconsin Insti- Sunday Oct. 5th from 1-4 p.m. Call An- Frances Moore Lappé: Getting a Grip: limited and registration is required. you can learn the art of Salsa Dancing at tute for Creative Writing and the thony at 283-7620 for more information. Clarity, Creativity, and Courage in a Please register online at www.ccclib.org, the Orinda Community Center! No part- Iowa Arts Council. Soda Activity World Gone Mad. Tuesday, Sept 30, at the Information Desk in the Orinda ner required, no experience necessary! Center, Saint Mary's College of New Moraga Art Gallery Show 7:00 PM. Frances Moore Lappé is a Library or by calling 925-254-2184. Sign up for a series, or just drop-in! In- California, 1928 St. Mary's Rd., through October 26th--"Summer of De- noted social change and democracy ac- structor: Tomaj Trenda, Mondays, Beg. Moraga MFA Program (925) cision" by local Bay Area and Lamor- tivist and the author of 16 books, in- To celebrate National Library Level: 7-8; Int. Level: 8-9. Drop-in: inda artists showing watercolors, oil cluding the three-million-copy Month, the Lafayette Library is asking $15/single or $25/couple Orinda Com- Photo by Ken C. Young, Moraga; 631-4457. www.kcyoungfineartimages.com painting, collage, ceramics, photogra- bestseller, Diet for a Small Planet (orig- you to come in and get your own li- munity Center, 26 Orinda Way. No Wednesday, Oct 8, at 8 p.m phy, mixed media, jewelry and glass de- inally published in 1971). Mt. Diablo brary card during the month of Sept. Need to Register, Just Come! Theater "The Making of the President 2008" sign. Moraga Art Gallery, 570 Center Unitarian Universalist Church, 55 Eck- When you do you may enter to win one Modern Dance Performance Sun- An evening of lively commentary St,. Rheem Valley Shopping Center/ ley Lane, Walnut Creek. free child’s pass to Disneyland or one A GRIEF RECOVERY WORK- day, Sept 21 at 2:00 pm. Robert next to Longs Drugs Moraga. Open on politics and the historic 2008 free adult pass to Disneyland. Children, SHOP for widows/widowers will be Moses' Kin Dance Company Tuesday through Sunday, 12-5 pm, On Sept 23 at 7 p.m., the Orinda Li- to age 12, with existing library cards held Sept. 23-Dec. 2, 7-9 pm at the presidential election with celebrated 925.376.5407. brary invites audiences to a Fireside may enter to win a Disney Mickey Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian whose repertoire is engaging and author, long-time political corre- Chat about Berkeley Repertory The- Plush Doll for kids! (925) 283-3872 or Church. Find hope, support and suc- always executed with heart-pound- spondent and syndicated columnist Hand and I, the Daily Eye,” the new atre’s (BRT) new production, the world go to ccclib.org. The library—the other cessful ways to process this signifi- ing exuberance. Saint Mary's Col- Richard Reeves. exhibit at the Lafayette Gallery runs premiere of “Yellowjacket” by Berkeley happiest place on earth! cant life event. Brochures and more lege, LeFevre Theatre, 1928 Saint Soda Center, Saint Mary's College through October 4th. The exhibit edu- native, Itamar Moses whose writing has information are available y calling Mary's Road in Moraga TICKETS: of California, 1928 St. Mary's Rd., cates and delights the viewer through a been described as “cuttingly comic,” and Preschool Yard Sale- Sat, Oct. 4, 9am- 925-283-9990, ext. 223. $25 general; $20 seniors (65+); $12 glimpse of the artistic process. Lafayette “brashly sophisticated.” A trained BRT Moraga 2pm - Moraga Bright Beginnings 1689 non-Saint Mary's students, SMC Gallery is a twenty- three member co- docent will offer insight into this new School Street, Moraga, (near Moraga 10th Annual Moraga Pear Festival, Committee for Lectures, Arts and faculty and staff; $2 Saint Mary's operative. Gallery artists work in a va- work, which takes place at Moses’ alma Way and Country Club Drive) Furniture, Saturday, Sept 27th - 10:00 am until 4:00 Music (925) 631-4670. riety of mediums including printmaking, mater, Berkeley High School. Free. Call toys, clothes, books, DVDs, CDs, sports pm. Music, crafts, inflatables, pies, pet- College students. INFORMA- Art Exhibits- TION: 925.631.4381 or painting, collage, jewelry, ceramics, (925) 254-2184 or visit the library web- equipment, kitchen gadgets and much, ting zoo. Moraga Commons Park. LAST WEEKEND! photography, watercolor and mixed site at ccclib.org. much more. www.stmarys-ca.edu (click on "Arts"). Forty-nine rarely seen oil paintings Lectures and thirty-eight pastels and draw- ings by Carl Sammons from a vast Wednesday, Sept 24, 7:30 pm- and extraordinary private collection Dan White will be featured in at the Hearst Art Dan White is a San Francisco- Galley of Saint Mary’s College based journalist, author, freelance through Sept. 21. A talented and editor and writing lecturer. His precise draftsman, Sammons work has appeared in the New York painted a wide range of subjects, Times, the Los Angeles Times, and from the flowers and birds of Backpacker. White's first book, Golden Gate Park to thundering "The Cactus Eaters," is a chronicle ocean breakers to the rolling hills of of his harrowing attempt to the coastal ranges to the Southern through-hike the Pacific Crest Trail. California deserts. Soda Activity Center, Saint Mary's Exhibition hours: Wednesdays through Sun- College of California, 1928 St. days, 11 am until 4:30 pm Mary's Rd., Moraga MFA Program Admission: $3 adult; children 12 and under (925) 631-4457. free; free parking Web site: http://gallery.stmarys-ca.edu. Wednesday, Oct 1, 7:30 pm- Telephone: 925-631-4379 Ashley Capps For more information about upcoming events at Saint Mary’s College, visit the Ashley Capps was born and raised college website at http://www.stmarys- in North Carolina and received her ca.edu/news-and-events/events.html. LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 18 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 LAMORINDA is celebrating! Enjoy Art, Wine, P Detour on Mt. D. for the A & W Lafayette Art & Wi By Cathy Tyson he local get together that Just follow the sound of the Children with a little Tstarted out on Golden steel drum band, the Kittian human energy to burn will Gate Way with approximately Steel Orchestra to locate up- enjoy the “KidZone” spon- forty vendors and artists, has scale wine and cars. sored by Chevron. Those Moraga Pear Fes morphed into a street fair ex- In addition to steel looking for sustenance after so traordinaire. The Lafayette drums, a variety of non-stop much shopping won’t be dis- Art and Wine Festival has music will be played on two appointed with a great selec- grown considerably tion of food in its thirteen years. choices. Orinda Restaurant Executive Director While the Jay Lifson estimates festival is free, it’s about 100,000 peo- produced by the ple will come over Lafayette Chamber Orinda Launches First Annual Restaurant the weekend to of Commerce, enjoy art, wine, along with the City By Andrea A. Firth beer, cars, food and of Lafayette, as a shopping on Sep- fundraiser for the tember 20 and 21. Chamber and the There will be Lafayette Arts and over 250 arts and Sciences Founda- crafts booths, that tion and a number include ceramics, of other charities. photography, prints, Wine will be avail- paintings and more. able for $6.00 per The “Local Artists glass, or four tick- Alley” will show- ets for $20. Free case Lamorinda parking is available artists that are mem- at the Lafayette bers of the Lafayette BART station with Gallery as well as complimentary the Lamorinda Art shuttles running Alliance. back and forth to Wine connoisseurs will stages, adding to the block the event all day long. appreciate the selection pro- party ambiance of the festival. Taking over Mt. Diablo vided by Wine Thieves at the Tribute bands to Grateful Boulevard from Dewing to La Premium Wine Pavilion. Al- Dead (Workingman’s Ed), Fiesta Square from 10:00 – though the Chamber would Journey (Evolution), Steely 7:00 on Saturday and 10:00 to never promote drinking and Dan (Aja Vu), and the Beatles 6:00 on Sunday, the Art and driving, they are clearly com- (The Sun Kings) along with Wine Festival will be hard to fortable with drinking and musicians from Red House miss. For more information looking. A number of shiny Studios, returning favorites go to the Chamber website at new BMW’s will be on dis- and local legend Bob Athayde, www.lafayettechamber.org. play care of Concord BMW at will provide the soundtrack t’s time to signature dishes. The evening will the Premium Wine Pavilion. for the weekend. Ieat, drink, conclude back in the Square and be merry in with dessert—Nation’s pie— Orinda. The and coffee. Orinda Chamber “For Lamorinda resi- T TOUR of Commerce in dents who have haven’t yet AN partnership with the tried the many great R Educational Founda- restaurants in Orinda, this AU tion of Orinda (EFO) is a great way to get a T and the City of Orinda taste of several at once,” S will host the first annual states Candy Katten- E Orinda Restaurant burg of the Orinda R Tour. The inaugural Chamber. “I am antic- event will take place ipating that this will A from 5:00 to 8:30 pm on turn out to be a really fun D Tuesday, September 30th Shelby’s Chef Arno KoberPhoto presents Andy Scheck “Grilleddinner Chicken party,” Mango she adds. Enjoy An Evening Salad in Dijon Vinaigrette” with Line Cook Marta Perez N in Theater Square. A significant portion of the proceeds from the I Sampling the “The Chamber is very ex- Restaurant Tour will be going to the Educational R Restaurants of Orinda cited to be spearheading this event,” states Keith Foundation of Orinda to support the Orinda Union Miller, President of the Orinda Chamber of Com- School District. Ten dollars from each ticket sold O Tuesday, September 30th merce. Miller came up with the idea of the having a will be donated to EFO. In addition, a silent auction restaurant tour in Orinda after attending neighboring of painting by local artist and gallery-owner Allison 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. Lafayette’s Taste of Lafayette. “This is a terrific op- Mccrady will take place during the dessert hour, and portunity for Orinda’s restaurants to showcase their fifty percent of the purchase price will also be do- offerings and for the community to come out and nated to EFO. Orinda Restaurant Tour to Benefit the show their support of their local businesses.” "We are so pleased that the Orinda Chamber of Educational Foundation of Orinda Patrons of the event can register between 5:00 Commerce selected the Educational Foundation of and 6:00 pm and enjoy a complimentary glass of Orinda as its primary beneficiary of the Orinda wine along with live music in the Square. Participat- Restaurant Tour,” says Janet Riley, President of EFO. ing restaurants will be open at 6:00 pm and will pro- “All Orinda school children, from kindergarten vide specially prepared samples of some of their through 12th grade, benefit from the Foundation's fi- Each restaurant on the tour will provide a small portion that best represents the establishment at no cost to the event ticket holders. One glass of wine is included in the The Crush is On ticket price. The cost of an individual ... continued from page 1 ticket will be $30 with EFO receiving Parker has reached capacity for what he can pro- the same as landscaping, but grapevines require less $10 from every ticket sold. duce and store in his home-based wine making opera- water. “The vines get established in a couple of years Reservations will be limited to 300 Auction ticket holders, so attendees are tion. If he decides to expand—and he and his wife and and are fairly drought resistant,” he explains. “You Painting by Allsion Mccrady encouraged to reserve early. business partner Shari are not quite sure that they want only need to water when it gets really hot.” to—he’ll have to look elsewhere for space. The wine- Parker, like many other growers, was forced to Where to buy Tickets: making facility tentatively included in Moraga’s draft turn the water on during the hot days of this past May. Chamber Office, Mechanics Bank - plan for downtown development has peaked Parker’s “Our vineyard has produced a very light fruit set due Orinda, Chamber web site (Pay Pal) interest, but he’s too busy to think abut that now. to this effect,” he states. “And the harvests from vine- Make $30 checks payable to: Orinda Chamber New vineyards seem to be regularly popping up yards across northern California are down an average Bocklets will also be available at the on the Lamorinda hills. “I think we have had 10 to 15 of 30% to 40% secondary to the heat spell in May and event in Theatre Square at the Restaurant Tour Table. new vineyards join the Association over the past year,” frost damage in March,” he adds. See details at: states Parker, who is President of the Lamorinda Wine- But as is often the case, adversity yields charac- growers Association—a young but growing group of ter. “Everything is coming in really high in sugar www.orindachamber.org local residents who raise grapes and make wine. which will produce some big, great wines,” says Parker’s love of grapevines and wine is infectious, so Parker with an insuppressible sound of excitement in Looking West www.allisonmccrady.com it is no surprise that he has helped his new neighbor to his voice. “It’s not a year for finesse, but there should plant about 1,000 vines on an empty lot across from be some great wine.” Orinda Chamber of Commerce his property. This fall, Parker will be releasing a few new “I think many people are evaluating how to man- wines from Moraga vineyards: two single-vineyard age weeds, erosion and the potential for landslides as- Pinot Noirs and a Cabernet Franc/Merlot blend. “I'm Special Thank you to the City of Orinda sociated with parts of their properties. Maintenance is also going to experiment with a Cab/Syrah/Merlot difficult and landscaping can be expensive,” he says. blend from the Lamorinda area that, if successful,

The 1st annual Orinda Restaurant Tour is sponsored by According to Parker, an initial investment of approxi- might become a more prominent member of our line- mately $40,000 per acre will cover planting the up in 2008.” Parkmon Vineyards’ wines are available WILDER grapevines complete with an irrigation system and trel- in a number of restaurants, wine bars, and wine shops ORINDA CALIFORNIA Eloise Middleton lises. The annual maintenance of the vines costs about throughout Lamorinda and the Bay Area. Wednesday, September 17, 2008 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Page: 19 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Pears, Good Food, Fun and Music Lafayette Art and Wine Festival, Sept. 20, 21 Come visit us ... ine, September, 20 and 21 Downtown Lafayette on the Rock'n and Roll'n Lafayette Circle, behind the Bandstand. We will be offering: wine tasting stival, September, 27 Commons Park Moraga massages complimentary ice tea ... all outdoors on the patio area of the lovely September, 30 Theatre Square Orinda French Bakery! t Tour, NEW

t Tour—9/30/08 71 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette Moraga Pear Festival: All-Volunteer, All-Inclusive By Sophie Braccini Pear Festival Sept.27th Moraga Commons Park 10 - 4 •Live Music • Great Food • Wine • Beer • Artists Booths •Pear Treats of all Kinds • Jumpies for the Kids • Crafts Town of Moraga will be served from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Besides the traditional hot- dogs and hamburgers offered by John Haffner, Parks & Rec. Commissioner the Kiwanis and the Lions and the desserts, entrées or soups. Win- snow cones sold by the Boys ners will get prizes from Scouts, Terzetto will sell blue- Amorama, Terzetto, Chef Chao berry ricotta blintzes in the morn- and the Rheem Theater. A pear- ing and chicken curry at lunch coloring contest will showcase the time, and live music will fill the talents of the younger crowd with air throughout the day. prizes from Loard’s Ice Cream. Christine Pivacek from the Moraga Parks and Recre- Parks and Recreation Foundation ation Director Jay Ingram encour- will head the pear recipe contest. ages all to come: “There will be his year, had it not been for artists will show off their newest Adults and children can bring something there for everyone, TJohn Haffner, a venerable creations, more than 20 local or- their dishes by 10 a.m. to the enjoy the 2008 fest!” nancial support of the schools. We hope everyone and tasty Moraga tradition might ganizations and groups will pres- judges’ tent. The pear-centered joins us on September 30th to support our local not have graced the Moraga Com- ent their achievements, and food recipes can be appetizers, jams, restaurants and the Orinda schools." mons. No Pear Festival? Perish Tickets for the Restaurant Tour are $30 per per- the thought! At a meeting with the son and can be purchased in advance at the Chamber Parks and Recreation Commis- of Commerce Office (24 Orinda Way adjacent to the sion the Town, faced by budget- Library) or Mechanics Bank (77 Moraga Way) or on ary constraints, raised concerns 3ATURDAY 3EPTEMBERTH 0- the night of the Tour. about the expense. Haffner, who “Everyone wins with this event,” states Miller. serves on the Commission, of- “Come out an join us.” fered to chair the event and make 3UNDAY 3EPTEMBERST 0- sure the Town would not spend more than the budgeted $2000. Participating With the help of the Moraga $OWNTOWN,AFAYETTE restaurants include: Chamber of Commerce and other volunteers, Haffner brings the Casa Orinda beloved Pear Festival back to ,AFAYETTE#HAMBEROF#OMMERCE0RESENTS Europa Hof Brau Moraga on Saturday, September Kasper’s Hot Dogs 27. Lava Pit Hawaiian Grill Moraga was “Pear Central” in the 19th century when its or- La Piazza chard shipped the Bartletts all Loard’s Ice Cream & Candies over the planet. Of this long gone TH Shelby’s history survives three events: the The Orinda House pear harvest for the local food !NNUAL Turquoise Mediterranean Grill bank in August, the pruning of the remaining orchards in Decem- check the Chamber web site for ber/January, and the Pear Festival, the updated Restaurant list an all-town party where cooks www.orindachamber.org and bakers square off, competing to prepare the most fabulous pear creation, while children bounce around and residents mingle amongst the booths staffed by local organizations. This year being election year, the organizing team decided to open a “Pear Political Pavilion” where the six candidates for Town Council will have the opportunity to meet their constituency. Sup- porters of the two competing land use measures, J and K, will be ,IVE-USICON3TAGES present, as well as the “No on &OOD 7INE-ICROBREWS Both” group. For residents, this is !RTS#RAFTS"OOTHS a perfect opportunity to do some &2%%0ARKINGAT"!24 political shopping. +IDS:ONE &2%%3HUTTLETOTHE%VENT Have you ever experienced a strong earthquake? Don’t miss the chance to live through an 8.0 shaker in total safety! CERT, the emergency preparedness group, 0RESENTING3PONSOR &ESTIVAL3PONSOR 0REMIUM7INE3PONSOR has rented a “Quake Cottage™”, a mobile earthquake simulator, in Dave Parker and daughter Jessalyn picking the hope of encouraging residents to get ready for “The Big One.” Photo Andy Scheck But the Festival is primarily about families and fun. The Parker will be pouring his wines at a younger crowd will leap and swirl M tasting at Michael’s Ristorante on on the jumpies set up by the Mor- aga Women’s Society, and a pet- Tuesday, September 23rd and at Terzetto’s Minuteman ting zoo brought to town by the Press Lafayette on Friday, October 3rd for a food and wine Lamorinda 4-H Club will be &ORFURTHERINFORMATION PLEASEVISITOUR7EBSITEHTTPWWWLAFAYETTECHAMBERORG pairing. available for their delight. Local LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 20 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 • Dining • Dining • Dining • Dining • Dining • Metro Lafayette By Susie Iventosch the spicy raw tuna poke. But the trio Metro Lafayette's Brentwood Organic Corn Soup (serves 4) of sandwiches that called to me in- cluded grilled brie and apricot mar- malade, crab salad, and croquet monsieur made with dry-cured ham and gruyere Mornay sauce. And these were just on the lunch menu. Dinner that night featured Dungeness crab cakes with avo- cado, cucumber and smoked tomato vinaigrette, Liberty Farm duck breast with crispy polenta, watercress and cherry gastrique, Misoyaki black cod with scallion rice cake and tempura mushrooms, and a pan-roasted chicken pan- zanella salad, to mention just a few. While he doesn't look a day over 22, Jason Low is already in his second career. He grew up in Wal- Chef Jason Low in the kitchen at Metro Lafayette Photo Susie Iventosch nut Creek and graduated from he other day I had the good chefs Jason and Paul are offering, Northgate High School before Tfortune to dine at Metro using local ingredients like Moraga heading off to U.C. Davis for a de- Lafayette for lunch with my daugh- heirloom tomatoes, Brentwood gree in Economics. After working ter and a good friend of ours. Even corn and peaches and Petaluma in financial services at Charles though it was rather hot outside, we poultry," Jack said. "This is the per- Schwab for a few years, he discov- ered his dream career was to be a enjoyed dining out on the patio fect time of year to enjoy the fall Brentwood organic golden corn soup with lemon parsley pesto Photo Chef Jason Low under the umbrella. Our waiter was harvest in our garden patio, where chef. So he made a few adjustments perfectly pleasant and accommo- we grow some of the herbs used in and took a couple of cooking 8 ears yellow or white corn courses before diving right into the dating and the food was excep- our dishes." 8 tablespoons butter The day we dined at Metro, kitchen. tional. 1 yellow onion, roughly chopped My daughter and I both or- Chef Jason Low was on duty and he "You crawl before you can dered the panzanella salad, which willingly offered to share a recipe walk, and I did just that when I got 1-2 teaspoons salt (depending on the sweetness of the corn, may seem a bit odd, since we ran with us. into this field," Jason said. "Most of use more or less to taste) the same salad in the last issue of "Our Brentwood organic my training has been on the job. ½ cup cream Lamorinda Weekly, but the dish golden corn soup with lemon pars- This is my second career, so I came so highly recommended by ley pesto is a dish that readers can thought, Jason, you're going to sink Husk the corn and remove corn hairs. Trim the corn kernels off the cob. Set aside. Put cobs in a large our waiter we just couldn't resist. easily replicate at home," Jason or swim." Lemon-Parsley Pesto From the outside looking in, pot and just cover with water. Bring to boil and simmer And am I ever glad … it was mar- noted. One bunch Italian parsley velous, made with beautiful heir- We tried this at home and it's it looks like he's floated straight to for 10 minutes. Remove cobs and reserve corn stock. loom tomatoes, homemade quite easy to prepare and delicious the top! Melt butter, then add onions and salt. Stir to mix. Juice of one lemon croutons and fresh mozzarella. with the lemon and parsley. The His enthusiasm is contagious Cover and cook over low heat for 15 minutes or until ½ cup extra virgin olive oil Metro has an interesting lemon presents a unique flavor, dif- and, though I haven't met his co- the onions are soft. Add corn kernels and corn stock to ½ cup half canola oil menu that changes every day, so ferent from any other corn soup I've chef Paul, I imagine they bounce cover. Bring to boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Salt to taste you can be surprised each time you ever tasted. ideas off one another all of the time. Blend mixture carefully, as hot liquids may spray, arrive. And the owners have cho- There were many other In fact, I learned that Paul was in fi- and strain using a ladle to push through sieve. Add Blend all ingredients together in blender. Add salt sen to work with two co-chefs, so dishes that made my mouth water, nancial services in his first career, cream. Salt to taste. If soup is too thick, add more corn to taste. there is never a lapse when one chef not the least of which was the too! stock. Serve drizzled with Lemon-Parsley Pesto, as Lafayette Metro is open for is on vacation. chocolate peanut butter cake with "It's fun when I get so excited below. dinner every night, lunch The restaurant is owned by peanut butter frosting and candied about a dish," Jason said. "I think Monday through Friday, and Jack Moore and his wife, Erika peanuts. The cake is made with we've hit a winner with our new brunch on Saturday and Pringsheim-Moore. According to Valhrona chocolate and the candied zeppole ricotta fritters we're about This recipe is available on Sunday. Hours: Erika, Jack has been in the restau- peanuts are really a homemade to introduce. They are going to be our web site. Go to: Mon-Fri 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. rant business for 30 years, so he's peanut brittle, crushed into pieces. amazing, served with fruit com- www.lamorindaweekly.com Bar open until midnight the expert in the family! The From the looks of the intrigu- pote." Sat and Sun 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Moores opened Metro Lafayette in ing menu, these two young chefs Zeppole fritters are a fried (brunch on Sat and Sun) June of last year, and have really en- are having a lot of fun in the dough dessert originating in Susie can be reached at Metro Lafayette joyed the experience so far. kitchen. My friend ordered the Greece. I plan on stopping by to [email protected] 3524 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette "We are very excited about Niçoise salad made with wild tuna pop one or two in my mouth as www.metrolafayette.com the high quality of food that our confit, and we seriously considered soon as possible! 925.284-4422

Early Bird Dinner 5-6pm Get a free entree with the purchase of another entree of equal or greater value. $9.95 (Maximum value is $8.95 lunch & $14.95 dinner.)* Pork Schnitzel Live music or Petar's is open for Blackened Salmon 6:30-10:00pm lunch Monday 925- through Saturday or Wednesday evenings from 11:30 to 4:00 284-7117 Fish & Chips and open for or Open 7 nights a week 5pm-10pm dinner nightly. Lemon Chicken 960 MORAGA ROAD Petar's Restaurant is located in the heart 1419 Moraga Way, Moraga Shopping Center LAFAYETTE of Lafayette at 32 Lafayette Circle. 925-376-3832 - www.terzettocuisine.com www.chevalierrestaurant.com Mon: 7am - 2pm; Tues-Sun: 7am - 8:30pm * Regular menu only, not valid with daily board specials, early dinner menu or with any other specials or promotions. 925-385-0793 (soup & salad sides are not considered entrees) - Exp. Oct., 15, 2008 -

Squirrel’s Coffee Shop 998 Moraga Rd, Laf 284-7830 La Cocina Mexicana 23 Orinda Way, Ori 258-9987 LAMORINDA’s Restaurants Village Inn Café 290 Village Square, Ori 254-6080 Mucho wraps 1375-B Moraga Way, Mor 377-1203 ••• updated August 6, 2008 ••• Continental Baja Fresh Mexican Grill 3596 Mt. Diable Blvd, Laf 283-8740 Petar’s Restaurant 32 Lafayette Cir, Laf 284-7117 Celia’s Restaurant 3666 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-8288 American Vino Restaurant 3531 Plaza Way, Laf 284-1330 El Balazo 3518D Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-8700 Bistro 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-7108 Duck Club Restaurant 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-7108 Maya Mexican Grill 74 Moraga Way, Ori 258-9049 Chow Restaurant 53 Lafayette Cir, Laf 962-2469 French Numero Uno Taqueria 3616 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-1333 Hungry Hunter 3201 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 938-3938 Chevalier Restaurant 960 Moraga Road, Laf 385-0793 Pizza Quiznos 3651 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 962-0200 Hawaiian Grill Mountain Mike’s Pizza 3614 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-6363 Ranch House 1012 School St, Mor 376-5127 Lava Pit 2 Theatre Square, St. 142, Ori 253-1338 Mountain Mike’s Pizza 504 Center St, Mor 377-6453 Terzetto Cuisine 1419 Moraga Way, Mor 376-3832 Indian Pennini’s 1375 Moraga Rd, Mor 376-1515 The Cheese Steak Shop 3455 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-1234 India Palace 3740 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-5700 Round Table Pizza 361 Rheem Blvd, Mor 376-1411 BBQ Swad Indian Cuisine 3602 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 962-9575 Round Table Pizza 3637 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-0404 Bo’s Barbecue 3422 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-7133 Italian Village Pizza 19 Orinda Way # Ab, Ori 254-1200 Burger Joint Giardino 3406 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-3869 Zamboni’s Pizza 1 Camino Sobrante # 4, Ori 254-2800 Flippers 960 Moraga Rd, Laf 284-1567 La Finestra Ristorante 100 Lafayette Cir, St. 101, Laf 284-5282 Sandwiches/Deli Nation’s Giant Hamburgers 400 Park, Mor 376-8888 La Piazza 15 Moraga Way, Ori 253-9191 Bianca’s Deli 1480 Moraga Rd # A, Mor 376-4400 Nation’s Giant Hamburgers 76 Moraga Way, Ori 254-8888 Mangia Ristorante Pizzeria 975 Moraga Rd, Laf 284-3081 Europa Hofbrau Deli & Pub 64 Moraga Way , Ori 254-7202 Café Michael’s 1375 Moraga Way, Mor 376-4300 Gourmet Bistro Café 484 Center St, Mor 376-1551 Express Cafe 3732 Mt. Diablo Blvd # 170, Laf 283-7170 Mondello’s 337 Rheem Blvd, Mor 376-2533 Kasper’s Hot Dogs 103 Moraga Way, Ori 253-0766 Ferrari- Lucca Delicatessens 23 Lafayette Cir, Laf 299-8040 Pizza Antica 3600 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-0500 Noah’s Bagels 3518 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-0716 Geppetto’s caffe 87 Orinda Way, Ori 253-9894 Postino 3565 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-8700 Orinda Deli 19 F Orinda Way, Ori 254-1990 Rising Loafer 3643 Mt. Diablo Blvd Ste B, Laf 284-8816 Ristorante Amoroma 360 Park St, Mor 377-7662 Subway 396 Park St., Mor 376-2959 Susan Foord Catering & Cafe 965 Mt. View Drive, Laf 299-2469 Japanese Subway 3322 Mt. Diablo Blvd #B, Laf 284-2627 California Cuisine Asia Palace Sushi Bar 1460 B Moraga Rd, Mor 376-0809 Subway Theatre Square, Ori 258-0470 Gigi’s 1005 Brown St., Laf 962-0882 Blue Ginko 3518-A Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 962-9020 Seafood Metro Lafayette 3524 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-4422 Kane Sushi 3474 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-9709 Yankee Pier 3593 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-4100 Shelby’s 2 Theatre Sq, Ori 254-9687 Niwa Restaurant 1 Camino Sobrante # 6, Ori 254-1606 Singaporean/Malaysian Chinese Serika Restaurant 2 Theatre Sq # 118, Ori 254-7088 Kopitiam 3647 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-1653 Asia Palace Restaurant 1460 B Moraga Rd, Mor 376-0809 Tamami’s Japanese Restaurant 356 Park St, Mor 376-2872 Steak Chef Chao Restaurant 343 Rheem Blvd, Mor 376-1740 Yu Sushi 19 Moraga Way, Ori 253-8399 Casa Orinda 20 Bryant Way, Ori 254-2981 China Moon Restaurant 380 Park St, Mor 376-1828 Jazz Dinner Club Tea The Great Wall Restaurant 3500 Golden Gate Way, Laf 284-3500 Joe’s of Lafayette 3707 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Laf 299-8807 Patesserie Lafayette 71 Lafayette Cir, Laf 283-2226 Hsiangs Mandarin Cuisine 1 Orinda Way # 1, Ori 253-9852 The Orinda House 65 Moraga Way, Ori 258-4445 Tea Party by Appointment 107 Orinda Way, Ori 254-2206 Lily’s House 3555 Mt. Diablo Blvd #A, Laf 284-7569 Mediterranean Thai Mandarin Flower 581 Moraga Rd, Mor 376-7839 Alex’s 2 Theatre Sq # 105, Ori 254-5290 Amarin Thai Cuisine 3555 Mt. Diablo Blvd # B, Laf 283-8883 Panda Express 3608 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 962-0288 Oasis Café 3594 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-8822 Baan Thai 99 Orinda Way, Ori 253-0989 Szechwan Chinese Restaurant 79 Orinda Way, Ori 254-2020 Per Tutti Ristorante 3576 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-5225 Royal Siam 512 Center St, Mor 377-0420 Uncle Yu’s Szechuan 999 Oak Hill Rd, Laf 283-1688 Mexican Siam Orchid 23 Orinda Way # F, Ori 253-1975 Yan’s Restaurant 3444 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-2228 360 Gourmet Burrito 3655 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-1270 Vietnamese Coffee Shop El Charro Mexican Dining 3339 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-2345 Little Hearty Noodle 578 Center Street, Mor 276-7600 Millie’s Kitchen 1018 Oak Hill Rd #A, Laf 283-2397 El Jaro Mexican Cafe 3563 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-6639 The Lamorinda Weekly (LW) Restaurant Guide is not paid advertising; our intent is to provide a useful reference guide. We hope that we have included all Lamorinda restaurants on this page, except those that told us they did not wish to be listed. LW is not liable for errors or omissions. In the event that we have inadvertently printed misinformation or excluded a restaurant please let us know ([email protected]) so that we may correct our list for the next issue. Wednesday, September 17, 2008 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Page: 21 LAMORINDA WEEKLY SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS NEWS Cougars Start Season with a Roar By Guy Dotan into the endzone untouched. fense. I thought our offensive line The Cougars never looked did a great job up front being back. A seven yard touchdown physical in the run game and our run by senior Anthony “Rocket” backs ran hard.” Rodriguez and a punt block and Junior wide receiver and recovery in the endzone by Ty safety Patrick Wirth said, “Al- Fach kicked the door wide open though we performed well in the as the Cougars built a 21-0 first first half, we really didn’t execute quarter lead. In the second quar- to our expectations in the second ter, the Campo offense was led by half. We played well overall, but big runs from senior Kawa we still have a lot of work to do.” “Cookie” Kazzaz and capped off There is still a long way to by a 1 yard touchdown run by go in the season. Campolindo Rodriguez. Shutdown defense fared well in their first non- complemented the effective run- league game, but what really mat- ning game, and the Cougars had a ters are the DFAL matchups soon 28-0 halftime lead. to come. The camaraderie be- During the second half of tween the players is essential in the game, the Cougars played a keeping them focused and enter- bit passively at first but were able tained at the same time. to hold off a late fourth quarter “On the field, the older Cowboy surge to put the game players help (the younger play- away. All in all, every element of ers) out and try to make us as the team played well, from the of- good as possible. Off the field, we fense led by junior quarterback are all great friends and they are a Tommy Stephens; to the defense, lot of fun to hang out with,” Wirth which held the Cowboys score- says of the team’s chemistry. less in the first half; to the special As for the rest of the year, teams that scored two touch- Stephens is confident in the downs and were a perfect five for team’s “strong core of guys that Anthony Rodriguez, “Rocket” (20) Photo Doug Kohen five in extra points by junior Ben are excited for everyone to con- Rudolph. tribute and play together. We ootball season has officially team’s strengths and weaknesses, featured success on all fronts for opening kickoff 99 yards for a “As a team I think we know that we’ll need to continue begun for the Campolindo the players worked together with the Cougars. touchdown. The return was a F brought great energy and focus to to improve in all areas if we Cougars, and the team started off such precision, it was as if they It only took one play for the thing of beauty as Fadelli caught the game,” Stephens said after the want to compete each week, but this new season in grand fashion. had been playing together for Cougars to get onto the board as the kickoff, ran upfield toward his game, “Our special teams were we are all working hard to get In what was supposed to be a years. Campolindo demolished senior and three year letterman blockers, right through the hole phenomenal along with our de- better.” game about discovering the Livermore 35-22 in a game that Anthony Fadelli returned the they created for him, and then

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Kawa Kazzaz “Cookie” (25) Photo Doug Kohen Campo Stomps Northgate for Win Number Two By Alex Crook t was, in a way, an easy game to be waved off by a Campolindo Cougars’ shutout. Ifor the Campolindo Cougars penalty. A minute later, Stephens Northgate’s onside kick varsity football squad Friday as connected with Tyler Rittenhour bounced out of bounds, and Patrick they opened DFAL play against for an on-target 25-yard touch- Wirth came in at QB for the visiting Northgate. down catch in the back corner of Cougars, only to run out the clock Campo was coming off a the end zone to extend Campo’s and seal the 28-7 Cougar victory. 35-22 season-opening victory lead to 21-0. After what looked A couple of former Cougars Route 250 against Livermore, while the like a Northgate fumble recovered were in attendance, including Nick Broncos were trying to avenge a by Campo, the referees agreed that Mascheroni, former Cougar wide 22-19 loss to Tamalpais. the ball carrier’s knee was down. receiver from last year’s East Bay The first quarter saw almost The very next play, Northgate put 2A runner-up team. Mascheroni is The Gael Rail Shuttle no action until late in the period, the ball on the ground again, and slated to play rugby for Cal next when junior quarterback Tommy this time, it was actually a fumble season. The Gael Rail Shuttle provides late night service between Lafayette BART and Stephens marched his Cougars picked up by the Cougar defense. With the win, Campo im- Saint Mary’s College via Moraga Road on Thursday - Sunday evenings*. The down the field. The drive set up a Campolindo was then able proved to 2-0 and the Broncos schedule is written to meet the last BART train arriving at Lafayette BART. one yard score by Anthony to capitalize on the fumble. watched their record slip to 0-2. “Rocket” Rodriguez as time ex- Stephens again took his Cougars This year Northgate actually * Service will operate on Monday, Sept. 1, Labor Day , on the Sunday schedule. pired, and the quarter ended 7-0 downfield, this time hooking up resides in the DVAL instead of the Campo. for 15 yards with Miles Macy, just DFAL. Other teams taken out of the FARES making things worse for North- league include College Park, Mt. The second quarter was a This service is FREE for Saint Mary’s students with a valid student ID. The fare little bit more exciting with an- gate. Following Ben Rudolph’s Diablo and Concord. other Cougar score, a sack, and extra point, the scoreboard read Next week, Campo looks for the general public is the regular $1.75 fixed-route cash fare. two runs for 10-plus yards. That 28-0 Campo. to continue its winning ways as was the only score of the second, The final quarter was when the team tries to stretch to 3-0 SERVICE HOURS and the teams went into halftime Northgate began to find their against visiting El Cerrito. Thursday evenings 9:30 PM - 1:25 AM, Saturdays 6:30 PM - 1:25 AM, and with Campo up 14-0. groove, but unfortunately for the Campo has yet to play a road Sundays 12:00 PM - 1:25 AM Rodriguez was primarily in Broncos, their groove came a little game this season. charge of the running game with too late. The winless Broncos, on the “FLAG STOPS” Kawa “Cookie” Kazzaz entering Late in the quarter, the Bron- other hand, will try to pull them- his senior season as a Cougar. cos were able to drive down the selves together as they head to Wal- 15-passenger vans will serve all posted bus stops along the route, but will After the break, Kazzaz exe- field and punch the ball into the end nut Creek to try their luck with also allow passengers to get on or off the vehicle between stops. To board cuted a perfect 40-yard run, only zone from one yard out, ruining the DFAL powerhouse Las Lomas. the van, simply flag down the driver, and the van will pull over at the nearest LMYA Basketball Sign-Ups safe location. Submitted by Gint Federas FOR SCHEDULE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.CCCTA.ORG MYA Winter Basketball registration will be Registration fee is just $175 and includes a OR CALL 943-1829 Lopen September 20 through September 30. uniform. There are discounts for 3 or more play- All 2nd through 8th graders are invited to join. ers from the same family. Boys and Girls sign ups will be available online Evaluations are scheduled for Sunday, Oc- at http://www.lmyasports.com/basketball/regis- tober 19. Practice kicks off November 17 with the tration.html. Players signing up after September last game scheduled for February 28. 30 will be assigned to teams on a space-available basis. LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 22 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 17, 2008 SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS NEWS Saint Mary’s Falls to UC Irvine Leading the Pack By Mikaela Cowles By Toby Wendtland to cycling and mountain bike rid- ing at age 40. McKenna is a doctor spe- cializing in addiction medicine at the Vallejo Medical Center. A flexible work schedule allows him to keep up with rigorous weekly training while keeping family time a top priority. McKenna and his coach have de- vised a workout schedule that calls for rides during the week ranging from one to six hours as well as workout time in the gym. Like other sports, cycling has its inherent dangers. Four Colin McKenna Photo Toby Wendtland years ago, McKenna’s son An- drew was riding his bike home acing against other cyclists, best. On Sept. 6 he took part in from work when he was involved Rsome nearly half his age, the Warnerville Time Trial, fin- in a hit and run accident with a Yousef Samy (8), Scott Eberhardt (3) Photo Tod Fierner Colin McKenna pushes himself ishing third in the race – his first vehicle. Andrew is recovering but podium finish. He views his oming off a 0-1 loss to Hous- cards. Despite the physicality of the Gaels caught a break as Irvine’s de- to stay with the pack over 20 still needs physical therapy. achievements humbly. ton Baptist on Sept. 5, the game, it was nothing compared to fense deflected Justin Kim’s corner miles of rolling road courses. McKenna himself broke his neck C “For me, (cycling) is more Saint Mary’s Men’s Soccer Team the game against Houston Baptist, kick in. The goal was too little too Having raced competitively for three years ago while mountain like the talking dog. It isn’t a mat- was unable to regroup, losing again when both teams combined for a late for the Gaels, however, as they only a year, the 61-year-old biking. ter of how well it talks, but the to UC Irvine 3-2 on Sept. 7 as the total of 36 fouls and seven yellow lost 3-2. Lafayette resident is new to the Riding with the pack in wonder that it talks at all,” he Saint Mary’s Tournament neared its cards. UC Irvine won the Saint world of amateur cycling and the road races is fraught with chal- says. end. With the loss, the Gaels’ record The Gaels kept the ball Mary’s Tournament on a tiebreaker Taleo Racing Team; however, he lenges: “It’s sort of like playing For McKenna and his fam- slipped to 1-3 and the Anteaters’ im- mostly in Irvine territory during the due to goals over Sacramento State. is already moving up in the na- chess at 30 miles per hour. You’re ily, being active is a way of life. proved to 3-0-1. second half, but the Anteaters de- Irvine’s Spencer Thompson, David tional rankings and is currently all playing on the same board,” McKenna recalls that when he Irvine’s sophomore Amani fense thwarted them from having Sias, Matt Murphy and Irving Gar- ranked fourth in Category 5 (first- McKenna says. started dating his wife, “All of Walker gave them the lead less than any real scoring opportunities. In the cia were named to the all tourna- year racers) in the 60-plus age On the horizon for our first dates were bike rides.” five minutes into the game, when he 78th minute of play, Spencer ment team. group. McKenna is also ranked in McKenna is the Beat the Clock scored on a header from the right Thompson scored, putting Irvine up The Gaels will be back home the top third of all amateur riders All four of their children, ages 28, Time Trial on Sept. 20 and the corner. Kevin Santora was given the 3-1. on Oct. 3 to begin regular season nationally regardless of age 25, 9 and 6, have been active in Mount Diablo Challenge on Oct. assist. With 10 seconds left, the games against San Diego. group. competitive sports. Beginning as 5. McKenna would like to remind Saint Mary’s freshman Mal- Despite this initial success, a swimmer, McKenna was also a the Lamorinda community to be colm Alguas gave the Gaels a glim- McKenna considers each race a serious runner and skydived at mindful of cyclists on the road. mer of hope when he earned his first new learning experience and a 18. Knee injuries and subsequent collegiate goal off an assist from chance to help him achieve his surgeries over the years led him Justin Grinder – his first assist of the season – into the upper left corner Flying High - Lafayette Diver Takes 1st of the net, tying the game 1-1. The Gaels out-shot the Anteaters with a 4-2 margin in the first half, but it was still not enough. With five minutes to go until the first half horn, Irvine took the lead for good when Matt Murphy’s penalty kick slipped past the Gaels’ keeper Doug Herrick into the lower ob Sherman of Sherman right corner. Irvine received the BDivers in Lafayette won 1st penalty kick when Herrick took out place in the Grand Masters com- Irvine’s Michael Willrich within the petition of the top finalists in the goal area. 80-90 year age groups at the Herrick’s foul was one of 16 U.S. Masters National Diving along with a yellow card for the Championships that took place Gaels. Irvine followed closely be- in Woodlands, Texas in August. hind with 13 fouls and three yellow Erik Rivas (7) Photo Tod Fierner In the 80-85 age group, Bob also took 1st place 1 meter spring- Yriberri Field Dedication board, 1st place 3 meter spring Submitted by Brian Depolo board and 1st place platform. iramonte friends and alumni are invited to attend the Bob Sherman diving at Sherman Swim School, Lafayette Photo Andy Scheck Mdedication of the athletic field in Paul Yriberri’s mem- ory prior to the Homecoming game on Friday, October 10, at 6:30 p.m. Lamorinda Weekly is an independent publication, Yriberri influenced the lives of many people. He grew produced by and for the residents of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda, CA up in Orinda and graduated from Miramonte, where he let- tered in baseball, football and wrestling. After college and the Lamorinda Weekly, P.O. Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570-6133 Staff Writers: army he returned to Miramonte, where he taught for 33 years Phone: 925-377-0977; Fax: 1-800-690-8136; email: [email protected] Jennifer Wake; [email protected] until his untimely death in March 2007. He was a successful We’re a community newspaper, and we welcome your input: Sophie Braccini; [email protected] football coach, helping to win numerous league and NCS Letters to the editor (max 350 words): [email protected] Cathy Tyson; [email protected] championships. He was a great science teacher, connecting at Sport events/stories/pictures: [email protected] Andrea A. Firth; [email protected] a personal level with thousands of students and mentoring Art, theater, community events: [email protected] Jean Follmer; [email protected] numerous Miramonte teachers. But most important to him Business news or business press releases: [email protected] Contributing Writers: Linda U. Foley, Conrad was his 35-year marriage to his wife, Jane, and his loving re- School stories/events: [email protected] Bassett, Susie Iventosch, Mikaela Cowles, Guy lationships with his two children, Renee and John. General interest stories: [email protected] Dotan, Tody Wendtland, Alex Crook He was an inspiration to his players in practice during Publisher: Andy Scheck; [email protected], phone 925-330-7916 Story Editor, Sports: Jessica Laversin Photos: Tod Fierner, Doug Kohen, the week and on the sidelines on game day. As in the class- Associate Publisher: Wendy Wuerth-Scheck; [email protected] Editor: Lee Borrowman; [email protected] Robert Johnson, Sheryl Cardiff room, he taught that hard work pays off on the field. He made Advertising: Wendy Wuerth-Scheck; 925-377-0977, [email protected] practices fun, kept all players interested, and found ways to help the second and third string players as much as the first 25,500 printed copies; 24,000 mailed to homes and businesses in Lamorinda. 1,400 delivered to pick up locations. Layout Andy Scheck, Moraga. Printed in California. string.

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SMC Gaels Homegames Fri, Sep 26, 7:00 PM Volleyball Seattle Sat, Sep 27, 7:00 PM Volleyball Pennsylvania Thu, Oct 2, 7:00 PM Volleyball Pepperdine Fri, Oct 3, 1:00 PM Women's Soccer San Jose State Fri, Oct 3, 4:00 PM Men’s Soccer San Diego Sat, Oct 4, 1:00 PM Volleyball Loyola Marymount Sun, Oct 5, 2:00 PM Men’s Soccer Loyola Marymount

Golf Saint Mary's College Invitational Pebble Beach, CA (Poppy Hills GC) Mon, Sep 29 Men's Golf All Day Tue, Sep 30 Men's Golf All Day

Eric Severson (55), Zack Purdy (58), Jeff Lindow (50) Photo Sheryl Cardiff nce again the Friday champions, the team held on Coupin broke off a 39 yard three. Onight lights were shin- as Antioch’s fourth and nine run through the right side for After each team turned the ing down on the Miramonte pass was broken up by James Miramonte’s first touchdown ball over on consecutive YOU CAN’T CLIMB LIFE’S MOUNTAIN Matadors as they hosted the King with 23 seconds left on of the season with 3:53 left in possessions, King made the Antioch Panthers in their sea- the clock, turning the ball the first quarter. An early sec- Panthers pay by racing wide DISCONNECTED FROM OTHER MEN... son opener on Sept. 5. Trying over to the Mats and securing ond quarter field goal by Matt open down the right sideline to improve upon their 5-5-1 an opening night victory, 31- Lloyd made it 10-0 before for his first touchdown catch record from a season ago and 28. Antioch scored a touchdown and a 17-7 halftime lead. return to their 2006 form, The Matadors got the on a quarterback keeper, King would finish the game when the Mats were NCS scoring started when John drawing the Panthers within with 10 catches for 160 yards n and two touchdowns to go t along with a team high 10 tackles. Antioch scored touch- downs on their first two pos- sessions of the second half and grabbed a 21-17 lead be- fore King responded with his second touchdown catch to pull the Mats ahead 24-21 with 10:29 left in the fourth quarter. A 22 yard touchdown Men's Fraternity recognizes that all men face pass from John Vaccaro similar hurdles. By connecting with other men (nine-of-14 for 145 yards and two TD’s) to Alex Epstein and applying certain principles we can be better with 3:21 left in the game equipped to overcome those hurdles. made it 31-21 Matadors. If you want to develop a personal mission for your life Antioch came roaring that fits “ the real you” let’s join together to begin the back. The Panthers drove the ball 90 yards into the end process for real change. zone, and with 55 seconds left in the game they recovered an Tuesdays 6:15am-7: 45 am onside kick near midfield. Then the Matadors made their Sign up on line at: www.mvpctoday.org final defensive stand, King breaking up the final two Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church passes of the game and secur- 10 Moraga Valley Lane, Moraga ing 2008’s first victory for Coach John Wade. 925-376-4800 Ext. 252 Matt Lloyd (86) kicks an early second quarter field goal for the Matadors Photo Sheryl Cardiff [email protected]

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