Wednesday, September 10, 2014 • Vol. 8 Issue 14 FREE admission, FREE Parking, FREE Shuttle, Free Bike Valet Parking Saturday, Sept. 20th 10-7 PM Sunday, Independent, locally Sept. 21st owned and operated! 10-6 PM Downtown Lafayette 925.377.0977 www.lamorindaweekly.com Live Music on Four Stages/ Kid Zone
Meet the www.lafayettefestival.com maker & C Film ast
Julie Newmar
Oliver Cowley Kathy Garver
Jan Wahl
Ashley Parker Angel Sondra Currie Chris McNally
Justin Henry
Christine Lakin
Jeffery A. Johns Debbie Pollack
Gedde Watanabe
Jack Turner Rena Elyse Strober Kent S. Leung Blake Peyrot Derek Zemrak and Leonard Pirkle are ready to roll out the red carpet for stars and guests at the California Independent Film Festival. Photo Andy Scheck Film Festival Opens in Lamorinda This Weekend By Sophie Braccini hat better way to kick off a wonderful weekend of fan- films, while several powerful documentaries will intrigue, in- “An Evergreen Christmas” will be featured on open- Wtastic films than to rub elbows with the films’ stars, di- form, uplift, or simply break your heart – you can choose your ing night at the Rheem Theatre, Thursday Sept. 11. Some rectors and producers? This year’s California Independent Film emotion and run with it. And don't forget the shorts; as usual of the cast will be there, including Oscar nominee Robert Festival, Sept. 11-14 at the Rheem and Orinda theaters, and the there will be unforgettable surprises. Loggia (“Jagged Edge,” “Big,” “An Officer and a Gen- Castro Theatre in San Francisco, will offer film enthusiasts more “We chose movies that talk about relationships in a positive tleman”), Charleene Closshey (“A Thousand Cuts”), and chances to mingle than ever before. The festival’s main features way,” says CAIFF co-founder Derek Zemrak. “We heard what Jake Sandvig (“Easy A,” “Sky High,” “Weeds”). have been purposefully steered toward feel-good, optimistic people said last year, and added more light-hearted films.” ... continued on page A14
Advertising The 10th Annual Town News A2 - A14 Business A10 Orinda Classic Car Show Weekend Life in Lamorinda B1 - B10 Saturday, September 13th, 10am - 3pm Not to be Missed B8-B9 HOW TO CONTACT US B9 Service Directory B10 Enter Your Car Today at Food B10 Sports C1 - C3 www.OrindaCarShow.com Classified C2 Shop Moraga C4 Our Homes D1 -D16 This Week Read About: KB Condos A2 New Art Form Makes Debut Spin at Art and Wine Festival Facilities Envy A4 By Cathy Tyson OUSD Candidates A6 Firefighter Overtime A11 his year’s Art and Wine Festi- concept of trAction painting as a fresh AUHSD Candidates A14 Tval brings the public debut of a look at Action painting, a genre that Amazing Race B1 new art form – live trAction painting emphasizes the physical act of paint- A Roof for Mulberry Tree B4 that feeds off the energy of the crowd ing as an essential aspect of the fin- Korean Ensemble at SMC B6 and music as it’s performed. Several ished work. TrAction is his Adobe Fandango! B7 artists have stepped up to volunteer interpretation using a variety of Luckhurst Resigns C2 their time during the festival to intro- wheeled contraptions, like a mountain duce the magic, just for the fun of it. bike, roller blades or a scooter, pro- Look for the artists near the Fiesta duced on large canvases. please... Stage as they bring their own cre- Initially he practiced on an un- ative signatures to this unique used street, and he has customized his method that utilizes wheeled con- sidewalk. He even had summer camp veyances that will “paint” to the kids participate in producing the art. music played on stage, boldly inter- Barry describes it as a combination of preting the vibe in real time. The art performance and process art, abstract will be auctioned off upon comple- expressionism, and much more of a tion when there’s a break in the kinetic experience – pedaling and music; 100 percent of the proceeds skidding, making patterns – than pro- will go to Meals on Wheels. ducing art with a brush. Jon Barry Photo provided Artist Jon Barry came up with the ... continued on page A13 ...thanks Life in Lamorinda B1-B10 Sports C1-C3 Our Homes D1-D16
Outcry Over SMC Hints for Changes at Women's Harvesting Canyon P.O. Soccer at the Peak - page B3. - page C1. of Perfection - page D13. Page: A2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 10, 2014
STILL #1 FOR A REASON 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
Lafayette’s Best Lovingly maintained & newly updated 3BR/2BA, 2167± sq. ft. single-family home. Private .19± Civic News acre parcel in the heart of town. Public Meetings City Council 3648Mosswood.com Just Listed! Dana Green Monday, Sept. 22, 7 p.m. Lafayette Library & Learning Center, License #: 01482454 Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. DanaGreenTeam.com | 925.339.1918 Planning Commission Monday, Sept. 15, 7 p.m. City Council Accepts ALS Ice Bucket Challenge Lafayette Library & Learning Center, n what turned out to be the short- of the Lafayette City Council re- them to take the ubiquitous ice ping up,” said Chaney, who has been Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Iest meeting ever, all five members sponded to Matt Chaney’s request for bucket challenge. “Thanks for step- very active in the community and liv- ing with ALS, or amyotrophic lateral Design Review sclerosis, since 2001. Monday, Sept. 15, 7 p.m. Holding to protocol, mayor Don Lafayette Library & Learning Center, Tatzin called the meeting to order – Arts & Science Discovery Center, with a motion to adopt the agenda, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. which was seconded and enthusias- School Board Meetings tically approved by all. The five- some, along with Chaney, then took Acalanes Union High School District their buckets (decorated with Love Wednesday, Sept. 17, 7:30 p.m. Lafayette bumper stickers) and AUHSD Board Room doused themselves. 1212 Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette City clerk Joanne Robbins said www.acalanes.k12.ca.us they took the challenge seriously – Lafayette School District she was in attendance to keep the Wednesday, Sept. 10, 7 p.m. checks they wrote to the ALS Asso- Regular Board Meeting ciation dry. The challenge continues, Stanley Library with the Lafayette City Council dar- 3477 School St., Lafayette ing both Moraga and Orinda councils www.lafsd.k12.ca.us From left: Matt Chaney, Mike Anderson, Brandt Andersson, Don Tatzin, Traci Reilly, and Mark Mitchell to also step up. C. Tyson Photo Andy Scheck Check online for agendas, meeting notes and announcements City of Lafayette: KB Condos Almost Ready to Break Ground www.ci.lafayette.ca.us By Cathy Tyson Phone: (925) 284-1968 Chamber of Commerce: www.lafayettechamber.org
Lafayette Police Department Incident Summary Report, Aug. 17-30 Alarms 65 Image provided 911 Calls 16 fter four meetings and a site amenities, along with an easily iden- amended the BART block specific approval – primarily, shrinking the Animal Cruelty Avisit finalizing design details, tifiable walkway that links city side- plan for a building over three stories building. Lafayette Cir/Hough Av KB Home is squared away to receive walks to the nearby BART station. and 35 feet in height; it also included A few months later, the Planning 3500 block Mt Diablo Bl the final approval on design develop- The developer will use the same red- a land use change from office to resi- Commission conducted more public Burglary, Auto ment for the project it has been work- dish decorative pavers found on dential use. hearings, finally voting to adopt the Stanley Middle (2) ing on since 2010. This structure will downtown sidewalks to send that Then came rejection. Public denial of the building application, 3200 block Stanley Bl 800 block Topper Ln house 69 condominium units on a 1.5 message. hearings were held in 2012, and in again finding that the building was Springhill Rd/Pleasant Hill Rd acre parcel at the terminus of Dewing The process to get to this point June the Design Review Commission too tall. 1000 block Laurel Dr Avenue – now the parking area just has seen some delays, and at the could not make the findings to sup- Following that, the City Council, 3500 block Mt Diablo Bl behind Panda Express. onset, a fair amount of public com- port the project. Commissioners were in October, 2012, received revised ar- Forgery “This is the last approval from the ment. KB Home filed an application clear that the applicant should con- chitectural plans showing that the top 1000 block Carol Ln (2) City,” said planning and building for a specific plan amendment in sider a number of its recommenda- story of the building had been elimi- DUI services manager Niroop Srivatsa. 2010. The resulting zoning change tions that could lead to future nated. ... continued on next page Pleasant Hill Rd/Hwy 24 “The next steps are to fulfill all the Deer Hill Rd/Pleasant Hill Rd conditions of approval and submit Hit & Run plans for a building permit.” A reso- COMING SOON COMING SOON 167 Stein Way, Orinda MAGNIFICENT 21 Williams Dr., Moraga DREAM 1st St/Mt Diablo Bl lution is slated to be finalized for the HILLTOP COME TRUE Lafayette Park Hotel (3) design development plans, with con- GRANDEUR Beautifully 900 block Moraga Rd ditions, at the Sept. 22 meeting of the Mediterranean appointed 5 Reliez Station Rd/Pleasant Hill Rd villa, .97 acre bed/3bths Design Review Commission. approx.of park home in 2nd St/Golden Gate Wy Hurdles for this particular mile- like grounds with popular Moraga Grand Theft pool, spa and Place. Call for 3400 block Black Hawk Rd stone focused on architectural and sport's ct. price and 1900 block Marion Ct landscape plans which include vehi- $1,798,000 details. ID Theft cle and pedestrian access, public art, windows, building materials, balcony VLATKA BATHGATE 30 block Circle Creek Ct 925 597 1573 3300 block Springhill Rd design and improving the connection Petty Theft with the public realm. Part of the site [email protected] CalBRE#01390784 ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal 700 block St Mary’s Rd fronts Happy Valley Creek, so the city Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 3500 block Mt Diablo Bl was concerned about clearly identify- 900 block Almanor Ct ing what will be a public space with 800 block Rosedale Av 3600 block Baker Ln Reliez Station Rd/Glenside Dr (2) Promiscuous Shooting “Care Indeed has been professional and 3200 block Elvia St Acalanes HS concise in every way, and responsive to 3800 block Happy Valley Rd St Mary’s Rd/Glenside Dr (2) 900 block Janet Ln Pleasant Hill Rd/Green the changing needs of my dad. Whenever Moraga Rd Valley Dr (2) there has been an issue with timing or 3800 block Mt Diablo Bl Pleasant Hill Rd/Taylor Bl invoicing, Care Indeed has been promptly Shoplifting Prowler responsive in attending to the need. 1000 block Willow Dr 3500 block Golden Gate Wy 3300 block Mt Diablo Bl Public Nuisance The onsite manager for my dad has enjoyed Pleasant Hill Rd/Olympic Bl Safeway Lafayette Library Suspicious working with Care Indeed’s staff and has 3500 block Mt Diablo Bl Circumstances 16 learned, through their example, how to McGraw Ln/Reliez Valley Rd Vehicle 38 better assist with my dad. We, the family, Subject 29 3700 block Sundale Rd are very grateful for the TLC that their Upper Happy Valley Rd/ Traffic Stops 208 Vandalism caregivers have provided to our dad. He has S Peardale Dr been very happy with his service providers 1400 block Sunset Lp Stanley Middle N Thompson Rd/Deer Hill Rd 3400 block School St as they have eased the way for him as he 1000 block Windsor Dr Vehicle Theft adjusts to his aging condition. Reckless Driving 1600 block Springbrook Rd 61 MoragaMoraga Way,Way, Suite 9 Safeway Pleasant Hill Rd/Deer Hill Rd Orinda,O i d CA 94563 Thank you for your professional and 900 block Moraga Rd Hwy 24/1st St (925) 317-3080 caring service.” - Suzanne, Palo Alto Mt Diablo Bl/Dolores Dr 10 block Gable Ln YOUR 24/7 HOME CARE SPECIALIST www.CareIndeed.com Wednesday, September 10, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A3 ADULT DAY PROGRAM Providing activities for adults with Alzheimer’s or other related dementias and respite for caregivers. Love Lamorinda!
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433 Moraga Way Orinda 925-254-3465 www.holyshepherd.org Goodbye Septic Tanks, Hello Sewer Line By Cathy Tyson 10 Ariey Lane, Lafayette 28 Lance Court, Moraga ou can now flush with con- a cost of almost $20,000 per year to Best value in Lafayette! Stunning Fantastic 1 level home with 2 master custom home built in 2005. suites. Completely updated 2722 SqFt, 4 fidence,” says Lafayette the City of Lafayette. The tanks were “Y 5112 sqft 6 Br. 4 Ba, and large bonus room. Br, 3 Ba, + office. Gourmet kitchen, beautiful yard. City Council member Mike Ander- fully enclosed, according to Jennifer $1,275,000 www.28LanceCt.com son. He’s referring to the restroom fa- Russell, parks, trails and recreation di- $1,799,000 www.10ArieyLn.com cility at city-owned Buckeye Fields, rector, “so odors were never an issue.” Great Very also known as Chaney Fields, home Negotiating over a period of Views! Special! of Lafayette Little League. The park roughly 10 years, City Manager used to have a septic tank, but it’s now Steven Falk worked with neighbors hooked up to the recently extended in the immediate area who were also Central Contra Costa Sanitary line. on septic systems and with the Cen- Because there was no room for tral Contra Costa Sanitary District to leach lines when the fields were con- split the cost of extending the line structed, the restrooms had septic further down St. Mary’s Road. Over tanks that unfortunately, due to the time, public works director Ron 1 amount of users, had to be pumped Lefler expects a substantial savings sometimes up to twice per week – at for the city.
1363 Camino Pablo, Moraga 37 Parkway Court, Orinda KB Condos Almost Ready Comfortable view home, close to Gorgeous gated estate adjoining K-8 top rated Moraga schools. Lafayette Reservoir. Custom built in to Break Ground Appr. 2700 sqft 5 Br, 2.5 Ba. Large .6 ac lot. 2012 with highest finishes. 2 adjacent lots avail. ... continued from page A2 $1,075,000 www.1363CaminoPablo.com $3,900,000 www.37ParkwayCt.com Still, concerns lingered about the aes- Ultimately the new lower height, thetics of the building, so the council while still substantial, was approved. referred the revised plans back to the “The increase in height is compen- planning and design review commis- sated by the provision of three public sions for comment. A sticking point outdoor spaces, a landscaped area be- with many citizens during the hear- tween the building and Happy Valley ings was the height of the building, Creek, a new pedestrian corridor which in its final iteration is 55 feet along the south building façade and a tall, after the developer agreed to take community park where these two 925 254-3030 www.Orinda.com off the top story – which is shorter spaces meet,” states the City Council than the adjacent Town Center brown resolution that was adopted on Nov. Lafayette • Moraga • Orinda Cal BRE 1221247 shingled apartments. KB describes 26, 2012. KB Home did not reply to ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Offices i Owned by a the height as “three and four stories request for comment on when Subsidiary of NRT LLC. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage or NRT LLC. CalBRE License #01908304. over podium parking.” ground-breaking will occur.
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*Visit celebritycruises.com/sf for full terms and conditions. Cruise must be booked 9/1-10/5/14. Offer applies to 4-night or longer cruises departing 12/20/2014- 4/2016; ocean view and higher staterooms; non-discounted standard cruise fare. Celebrity Xpedition and certain sailings excluded. Two guests choose one option; guests must select the same option. One offer per stateroom. Provide promo code PYPBEV for Beverage, PYPOBC for OBC, PYPGR for Gratuities and PYPAIR for Choiceair Savings. Guests booking air travel using ChoiceAir have the fourth option of a cruise fare savings. ChoiceAir must be purchased by10/5/14; ChoiceAir offer not available for 7/2015–4/2016 sailings. On select sailings, triple and higher occupancy guests each receive savings on cruise fares. Taxes and fees are additional for all guests. OBC has no cash value, is applicable to cruise only, non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, and expires 10:00 PM on the final night of the cruise. Offers are subject to availability and change without notice. ©2014 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador. Page: A4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 10, 2014 867 Birdhaven Court, Lafayette Gary Bernie & Ken Ryerson
925.200.2222 Gary 925.878.9685 Ken [email protected] [email protected] Please call for more Civic News information. Public Meetings • Single Story home in highly desirable Lafayette Trail Neighborhood Town Council • Spacious private flat back yard Wednesday, Sept. 10, 7 p.m. • Easy access to Lafayette trail via back yard gate Wednesday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m. • Conveniently located on a cul de sac close to downtown Lafayette Gary Bernie Ken Ryerson Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School, Offered at $899,000 CalBRE#00686144 CalBRE#01418309 1010 Camino Pablo Local Knowledge of Lamorinda & Extraordinary Results pacificunion.com | A Member of Real Living Planning Commission Thursday, Sept. 18, 7 p.m. Moraga Library, 1500 St. Mary’s Rd. No Local Plastic Bag Ban Design Review he Moraga Town Council unanimously re- council’s vote, a bag ban bill passed both houses of intends to sign into law a statewide ban on dispos- Monday, Sept. 22, 7 p.m. Tjected the adoption of a local ban on single- the state legislature and now sits on the governor’s able plastic bags that would go into effect on July Moraga Library, 1500 St. Mary’s Rd. use plastic bags Aug. 27. Within two days of the desk. Governor Jerry Brown has indicated that he 1, 2015. S. Braccini School Board Meeting Moraga School District Learning from a Neighbor Tuesday, Oct. 14, 7:30 p.m. Joaquin Moraga Intermediate By Sophie Braccini School Auditorium expansion of a large sports field. ulation for events, classes, and wed- 1010 Camino Pablo, Moraga The tour started with the teen cen- dings, among many other things. www.moraga.k12.ca.us ter, a modern and open 5,000 square Berggren said that rental of the facility See also AUHSD meeting page A2 foot facility set in a park and directly is developing nicely, including that of connected to the city pool, where the great room, which features Check online for agendas, meeting teens can hang out after school and vaulted ceilings and can host 400 peo- notes and announcements during the summer and relax in a safe ple. The community center also Town of Moraga: environment, engage in organized ac- houses a preschool operated by the www.moraga.ca.us tivities, and even get homework help. school district. Phone: (925) 888-7022 Going from good to great, the As the afternoon faded and the air Chamber of Commerce: group walked to the nearby senior cen- gently cooled, the visit ended at Pleas- www.moragachamber.org ter. Boasting 23,000 square feet, the ant Oaks Park, which offers romantic Moraga Citizens’ Network: center opens on an ample lobby that views of Mt. Diablo. The last Meas- www.moragacitizensnetwork.org can serve for pre-reception activities. It ure E project, the new field is set includes a complete kitchen, computer where an older sports field was al- room, game room, meeting rooms, a ready in operation but needed new ir- large dance floor and a café. “Seniors rigation and grass. The all-natural turf Moraga residents visit Pleasant Hill teen center. Photo Sophie Braccini pay to participate in most of the activ- accommodates five baseball/softball ities,” said Berggren, “the fees cover fields and numerous soccer fields. emember school field trips? veloper fees that could fall into the about 56 percent of our cost.” Pleasant Trotter asked why a gym had not RThough curriculum-related, town's coffers within a year or two Hill is known for its extensive senior been part of the package. Berggren you’d get to go places, learn new that would be primarily dedicated to services, including a travel program explained that the project had been things, and the usual school rules recreation. So it made some sense to that offers a different trip every week. designed to bring something to every Moraga Police would be somewhat relaxed. That’s go see what others do when manna Going from great to lavish, the member of the population and the Department exactly what happened to the 20 or so comes their way, either by virtue of a group of already impressed Moragans money could only be stretched so far. Moragans – members of the Town ballot box or other means. climbed back in their cars to go dis- The Moragans left with some signs of D.U.I. 8/30/14 A 52-year-old Council and various committees and “We passed Measure E, our bond cover the city’s new community cen- envy, even though they realized that Orinda resident was pulled over on commissions – who traveled to Pleas- measure for the park and recreation fa- ter. The impressive 21,800 square Moraga is very different from Pleas- Moraga Way at 6 p.m., after an of- ant Hill in August to visit their neigh- cilities, with a 75.7 percent rate of ap- foot center is open to the whole pop- ant Hill. ficer observed the driver go bor's recreation and sports facilities. proval in 2009,” explained Pleasant (City data 2012) Moraga Pleasant Hill through a nearby parking lot, park, Late on a warm afternoon, they Hill Recreation District general man- Population 17,000 34,000 then drink a beer while in the dri- pranced around and marveled at what ager Bob Berggren. “The measure Median age 42 40.7 ver’s seat. Arresting officer noted a difference $28 million in bond rev- produced $28 million, and we ended Median income $114,256 $72,814 “the subject displayed objective enue can make. up paying about $33 million, with the Number of homes 5,722 14,000 signs of intoxication.” After flunk- At a subsequent Town Council last piece, Pleasant Hill Oaks Park, % owner occupied 84% 64% ing field sobriety tests, the driver meeting, Councilmember Dave Trot- being dedicated this summer.” In Median home value $795,502 $468,231 was taken to Moraga Police De- ter noted that what had been done Pleasant Hill there is a parks and recre- partment and then on to the Main there was of a magnitude that Moraga ation district that pre-dates the city, The Town of Moraga’s total revenue is about $8 million, of which Detention Facility in Martinez. could never rival, but that interesting and includes areas outside of the city. $3 million come from property tax. In contrast, the budget of the lessons could be learned. Its revenue comes from property tax Pleasant Hill Recreation District alone is in excess of $8 million; Gas hose goes bye-bye, 8/29/14 An For a few months now, Moraga’s and fees for services, not sales tax. on the revenue side about $5 million come from property taxes adult customer put gas in her car at Ad Hoc Facilities Subcommittee has Measure E funded a new senior center, and $3 million from charges for services. (Figures are from au- the Arco station on Moraga Road, been meeting to define a sports and teen center, community center, and the dited 2013 city reports.) then drove away from the pump recreation plan for the town. What with the hose still attached to her makes it more appealing than just an- car. The hose disconnect function other plan is the prospect of high de- worked, so the hose separated from the pump without gas being spilled Texas and was arrested for D.U.I. or the pump being damaged. The Alleged grandson requested money, customer noticed her car’s newest and unfortunately grandma sent appendage and returned to the serv- $1,700 via Western Union. It turns ice station to supply the owner with out that her actual grandson had not insurance information and her li- been in a recent accident or arrested cense plate number. in Texas. Deceased person, 8/29/14 Cops re- Grand theft, 8/23/14 A Del Rio Way sponded to an apartment on a report resident came to the police depart- of a possible overdose. The subject ment to report that an unknown sus- was lying in the kitchen and was pect had removed several items pronounced dead at the scene. A from an unoccupied home. Appar- number of hypodermic needles, a ently thieves took $2,000 worth of quantity of unknown pills and sus- Hundreds of Bay Area families choose staging furniture that was at the pected heroin were found. The home while the house was for sale. Home Care Assistance. Coroner responded and removed the subject; cause of death is un- The following additional crimes Trust our award-winning care to suit your family’s known, pending an autopsy. were reported in Moraga be- needs. We’re the best! tween Aug. 26 and Sept. 2: Contraband on campus, 8/28/14 24/7 Live-In Care Specialists. We offer around-the-clock care for a reasonable price Danger to Self Ascot Dr Moraga police received a head’s up despite recent overtime laws. Identity Theft Dolores Ct from Saint Mary’s College public Vandalism Ascot Dr Brain Health Experts. We are the only home care agency that offers Cognitive safety officers who had discovered Lost Property Country Club Dr Therapeutics, a research- backed activities program that promotes brain health a student who was in possession of Moraga Wy and vitality in our clients. a knife and suspected marijuana False Alarm Calle La Mesa while on campus. The parties were Lamorinda’s Best Caregivers. Each has at least 2 years experience and undergoes Canyon Rd interviewed and cops took posses- extensive training and screening, including a DOJ background check, drug test and School St sion of the items; the case was sent proprietary psychological exam designed to test for honesty and conscientiousness. Domestic Disturbance to the District Attorney’s office for Moraga Rd Meet Jill. Jill Cabeceiras is the client care manager for the East Bay. prosecution. Prostitution Center St She has been working with older adults for more than ten years and Suspicious Circumstances is an expert on managing care within the home. Let Jill help you and Elder fraud, 8/25/14 An 84-year-old Birchwood Dr your family! Camino Ricardo grandma received Miramonte Dr a phone call from an unknown per- Center St son who she believed was her Call Jill to schedule your free consultation today! La Quinta grandson. The caller said he was 925-820-8390 • HomeCareAssistance.com Residential Burglary involved in a traffic collision in 190-G Alamo Plaza, Alamo, CA 94507 Ascot Dr Wednesday, September 10, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A5 Coming Soon FALL SENIOR TRIPS & ACTIVITIES 1239 Quandt Road LIVERMORE WINERY, Lovely Ranch Home in Lafayette! JERSEY BOYS & MORE! • 4 Bedrooms and 2 Baths • 1944 Square Feet on .23 acre SIGN-UP TODAY • Gleaming Hardwood Floors • French Doors Leading to Lovely Yard with New Lawn MORAGA PARKS & RECREATION • Spacious Family Room with New Carpet 925-888-7045 • www.moraga.ca.us • Cute Kitchen with White Cabinets • Open Saturday and Sunday 1:00-4:00
Massage Parlor Issue Comes to Moraga The Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe Invite you to By Sophie Braccini oraga police arrested 52-year- Sheriff went to investigate undercover business owners. A Fandango Mold Situ Li, of San Leandro, after a resident expressed concerns to Moraga does not have a specific to support the restoration of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe on Aug. 28 for misdemeanor solicita- us," said Sergeant Brian South, who regulation for massage parlors. Typi- on Saturday, September 13, 2014 tion of prostitution after an investiga- is in charge of the investigation for the cally, cities that encounter this kind of tion into possible illicit activities Moraga Police Department. Accord- problem craft and enforce rules that at The Frank Lloyd Wright Buehler House in Orinda occurring at Wonderful Spa, a mas- ing to South, Li was an employee of include a requirement for employees Live Music, Tapas and Bebidas Guided House Tour and sage parlor located at 450 Center St. Wonderful Spa, which is located be- to be licensed; they also often add re- Champagne Reception - $300 in the Rheem Shopping Center. tween the post office and Tuesday strictions on the operating hours of Tours 5 pm - 6 pm. Limited tickets. Similar activities in Lafayette a Morning. She was booked at the such businesses. Town Manager Jill couple of years ago sparked an ordi- Moraga Police Department and re- Keimach indicated that it is in the General Admission - $100, 7 pm – 10 pm nance that requires all employees of leased on a signed Promise to Appear. town's interest to address this issue, massage establishments in that city to South said that the investiga- but that it’s too early in the investiga- Reservations and Information: www.moragaadobe.org be licensed by the state. tion is ongoing and includes pos- tion to say in what direction the Town For questions please call 925.254.8260 "An officer from the County sible use permit violations by the Council will decide to go. The Friends of the Moraga Adobe is a 501(c)(3) organization. Guests must be at least 21. Infusion of Contemporary Design for Make checks payable: FJMA, PO Box 872, Orinda, Ca 94563 Rancho Laguna II By Sophie Braccini ummerhill Homes met with seven different elevations, were con- had a few concerns, but mostly praised SMoraga’s Design Review Board ceived with a classical base, but Sum- the effort to create something different on Aug. 25 to present the design for merhill Homes' architect, the Dahlin but well integrated with the site. the 27 homes they are approved to Group, proposed multiple mod- The large single-family homes build along Rheem Boulevard and the ernistic features creating a refreshing will have a lot going for them, includ- hills above. The three types of homes, new style for Moraga. ing great views of open space. with different color schemes and Design Review Board members ... continued on page A13
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ORINDA $1,349,000 ORINDA $1,295,000 LAFAYETTE $1,165,995
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Orinda Office 925.258.1111 Page: A6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 10, 2014
281 Monte Vista Ridge Road is a Open House Sunday, Sept 21st, 1-4 sophisticated, private sanctuary offering an indoor/outdoor lifestyle, lovely gardens and Views from every room. Enjoy refined archi- tectural details, quality finishes, a convenient location and award-winning schools! Civic News Public Meetings Peter & Darlene City Council Hattersley Tuesday, Sept. 16, 7 p.m. Visit www.281montevistaridgerd.com for a video, photos, virtual tour & details. Auditorium, Orinda Library, 26 Orinda Way 925.360.9588 925.708.9515 www.TheHattersleys.com CalBRE# r00445794, CalBRE# 01181995 ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Planning Commission Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 Tuesday, Sept. 23, 7 p.m. Auditorium, Orinda Library, 26 Orinda Way Four Candidates Compete for Three School Board Seats Finance Advisory By Laurie Snyder Committee hree seats are opening on the ica’s uneven public school landscape erly Hills and Stanislaw Ashbaugh, Francisco to Orinda with her family Wednesday, Sept. 24, 6:30 p.m. TOrinda Union School District while being transferred with his fam- LLP in Seattle, she practiced for four years ago, she joined Temple Isa- Sarge Littlehale Community Room, board of trustees. Four accomplished, ily from one military base to another. seven years before her son was born. iah’s early childhood task force, and 22 Orinda Way passionate professionals are running Ultimately a product of Orinda’s Currently on the boards of the Mira- helped to start a Tot Shabbat program. in November, 2014. Each has direct schools, he served as a student mem- monte Parents Club and Friends of As her children grew, she refocused School Board Meeting experience volunteering for and send- ber of the Acalanes School Board be- the Orinda Library, the 10-year her volunteerism toward Glorietta El- Orinda Union School District ing at least one child through Orinda’s fore heading for Yale and earning Orinda resident has also been the ementary, becoming co-president of Monday, Oct. 13, 6 p.m. schools. graduate degrees from the Harvard Acalanes Union School District par- the Parents’ Club in 2013-14. Cur- Carol A. Brown University John F. Kennedy School cel tax representative for Measures A rently, she also volunteers with the OUSD Office, Vintage Building A native of Concord, Carol of Government and University of (2010) and B (2014). “It has been a Children’s Health Guild to raise funds 25 Orinda Way, Suite 200 Brown is a 22-year Orinda resident California, Hastings College of the great privilege serving on the school in support of the UCSF Benioff Chil- www.orindaschools.org who advanced through the publishing Law. He has worked for Nielsen board and working with so many tal- dren’s Hospital Oakland and the See also AUHSD meeting page A2 industry from book editing to market- Merksamer since 1996, and was ad- ented and committed people in this George Mark Children’s House, ing before leaving to work at a non- mitted to the California State Bar in community. I look forward to contin- America’s first freestanding pediatric Check online for agendas, meeting profit agency engaged in finding 1999. Currently a partner specializing uing to work collaboratively to ac- palliative care service. “I’m someone notes and announcements homes for hard to place foster kids. A in political law and ethics, he has ad- complish the board's primary goal: who brings people together whether City of Orinda: former board member for Court Ap- vised clients regarding land use, tax providing Orinda students with the through entertaining or schools, or www.cityoforinda.org pointed Special Advocates for Chil- and other ballot measures. While highest quality education.” getting my kids together with other Phone (925) 253-4200 dren, she continues to volunteer as a chairing the board at St. Stephen’s, he Hillary Weiner people. I’m a listener. I pride myself Chamber of Commerce: child advocate for CASA while lead- helped the church create a legacy fund A graduate of Emory University on being someone who brings com- www.orindachamber.org ing a team of eight other volunteers and retire a capital deficit. In 2014, he and the University of California, munity together.” The Orinda Association: who support abused and neglected also volunteered with Fix Orinda Hastings College of the Law, Hillary Asked for one to two words each www.orindaassociation.org children. “We have such a nice com- Roads, the committee which helped Weiner was admitted to the California would use to best describe himself or fortable life where we are that it often secure passage of the Measure J roads State Bar in 1999. While working as herself, all modestly required prod- doesn’t occur to us that a child down improvement bond in June. “You a senior associate with Drinker Biddle ding until eventually choosing the fol- the street could be in danger. These have to look at the long term and proj- & Reath LLP, she practiced pharma- lowing: Brown – compassionate; kids have had everything go against ect.” ceutical and medical device product Kaune – kind and fair; Rossiter – them, and have been violated in so Julie Rossiter liability law until becoming a full- pragmatic; and Weiner – a commu- many ways. I advocate in court for The only incumbent running, time mother. After moving from San nity builder. one particular child at a time, working Julie Rossiter was first elected to the Orinda Police with his or her therapist and school OUSD board in 2010, and served as OUSD Board Campaign Websites Department Incident teachers, often getting to know the president in 2013. A graduate of the Summary Report, child I represent much more deeply State University of New York at Carol A. Brown: carolbrown4schoolboard.org than can a social worker who’s over- Stony Brook and the University of Jason Kaune: jasonkaune.com Aug. 17-30 burdened. It’s the best thing I’ve ever Southern California’s School of Law, Julie Rossiter: julierossiter.org Alarms 78 done outside of having my own kids.” she was admitted to the California Hillary Weiner: hillaryweiner.com Assault/Deadly Weapon Jason Kaune State Bar in 1991. A business litigator Hwy 24/Wilder The son of a naval officer, Jason and employment lawyer in the 1990s Save the Date! OUSD School Board Candidate Forum: 911 Calls 18 Kaune experienced firsthand Amer- with Ervin, Cohen & Jessup of Bev- Oct. 16, sponsored by the Orinda Association. Battery 10 block Crescent Dr Auto Burglary OUSD Board Candidates Talk Common Core Bevmo 70 block La Cresta Rd By Laurie Snyder 50 block Bobolink Rd he four candidates for the the board will need to respond. most all of our kids to college, but the than what the Common Core calls 60 block Overhill Rd TOrinda Union School District “We’re a community that sends al- best colleges require much more math for.” ... continued on page A13 Residential Burglary board shared their views recently on 10 block Patricia Rd issues ranging from budgets to school 80 block El Gavilan building conditions. Here are their Disturbance thoughts on one issue likely to shape Orinda Theatre (juvenile) DUI the victors’ tenure. Rheem Bl/Carolyn Ct OUSD board members, teachers, Hit & Run parents and the community must “re- Safeway ally understand what Common Core Bear Creek Rd/Camino Pablo means, figure out how we can imple- Moraga Wy/Brookwood Rd ment while retaining local control, 500 block Tahos Rd and then do so in a way that our kids Indecent Exposure can have accelerated learning,” said Camino Pablo/Moraga Wy Hillary Weiner. The overall idea is Petty Theft good – enabling children “to explain 100 block Overhill Rd how they’re coming up with an an- 60 block Bates Bl swer instead of just rote memoriza- Tara Rd/Overhill Rd tion. One of the bad things, though, is Sanborn Rd/Moraga Wy that Common Core doesn’t allow for 200 block Courtney Ln differentiation,” and is worrisome in Safeway 10 block Camino Sobrante terms of acceleration with students in 60 block Brookwood Rd math. She also wonders whether Grand Theft Common Core could end up taking 100 block Spring Rd away too much local control. Reckless Driving Weiner has also been pondering HillaryWeiner.com 10 block Orinda Wy the potential impact of another pro- Paid for by Hillary Weiner for Orinda School Board 2014. FPPC Committee #1368663 San Pablo Dam Rd/Bear jected change. “If our testing will be Creek on a tablet format, we need to make Moraga Wy/Glorietta Bl sure our kids are educated on and Shoplifting comfortable with the required tech- 20 block Orinda Way nology so that they’ll be able to suc- Jason is a product Bevmo ceed when taking the test. If this is and parent of our Safeway (2) what it’s going to be, we need to en- Orinda schools, Suspicious sure that our teachers have the re- Person 6 running as an sources they need to implement the Circumstances 9 experienced appropriate technology.” Vehicle 28 consensus “One of the things I like about Traffic Stops 190 builder who will Vandalism Common Core is that it’s more inter- 70 block Loma Vista Dr ested in teaching children how to bring independent 20 block Tarabrook Dr think than what to think,” said Carol thinking and fiscal Vehicle Theft Brown. “We need students to learn prudence to the 60 block La Cresta Rd how to read a newspaper article and school board. ask questions about it.” In addition to Please submit learning to drill down, she said, “We He has been can’t move forward unless we’re all endorsed by city learning English and math, and are re- Letters and leaders, parents, Opinions: quired to learn about our country’s history and our responsibilities as cit- teachers and letters@ izens. She agrees that the math stan- others. See more at lamorindaweekly.com dards may be problematic, and said JasonKaune.com! Orinda Motors Presents
The 10th An n ual Orinda Cla ssic C ar Sho w Weekend
Friday Night Pre-Par ty, Sep tem b er 12th, 6:30pm
“DANCING WITH THE CARS”
Saturda y, Septembe r 1 3th , 1 0am–3pm ORIND A C LA S SI C CAR SHOW
Sunday,
September 14th, 5:30pm and 7:45pm
“S PEE D O N T H E SCREEN”
Exhibitors’ Sponsor En jo y v in tag e an d m ode rn ex oti c cars a nd mo tor cycle s , foo d, music, and mo re! Th e s how will
be h eld in Orind a Villa ge on Enter Your C ar a n d M ak e Pa rt y R es e rva ti ons Or ind a Wa y an d th e 1 6 th fa ir way of Or inda C ou ntry Clu b . Tod ay at www.OrindaCarShow.com Join u s as a spectator or to These events ben ef it the Se niors Aro un d Town transportation program, Educational Foundation o f Orinda, and other local charities. W e w ou ld like to thank our partners for helping make these show your car o r moto rcycle! events happen: Orinda Association, Orinda Rotary, Orinda Historical Society, Orinda Country
Regis te r on lin e to da y ! Club, O rinda C hambe r of Co mmerce, Educatio nal Foun dation of Orind a, Orin da Art s Council , and Senoiors Around Tow n.
Event Schedule See a Special Exhibit of outstanding Porsches from Friday, September 12th, 6:30pm the 1950’s to today!
"DANCING WITH THE CARS" FRIDAY NIGHT PRE-PARTY The presenting sponsor for this event is Mechanics Bank.
Rebels with a Cause “DANCING WITH THE CARS” PARTY SPONSORS 5IJTGBOUBTUJDTQBSUZBU0SJOEB Buy your tickets at: Library Plaza includes a special retro- Presenting Sponsor: spective car display of hotrods, ragtops www.OrindaCarShow.com and glass packs – plus liberal libations, Space is limited so don’t wait. a deluxe diner-style dinner menu from NO WALK–INS WILL BE ALLOWED. Shelby’s, silent and live auctions and, of course, dancing! Reserve your tickets
now! Supporting Sponsors:
Proceeds of this event benefit EFO, Orinda Rotary, Orinda Arts Council, Orinda Chamber Breedlove Insurance Services, Clark Thompson-Village of Commerce and other non-profit community partners. Associates, Drakes Brewing, Land Home Financial Services, Orinda Optometry Group, Recuerdo Wines,
Saturday Free Admission Gary C Wong CPA Special thanks to the Rotary Club of Orinda September 13th, 10am - 3pm for producing this party!
10TH ANNUAL ORINDA CLASSIC CAR SHOW
The presenting sponsor for this event is Orinda Motors. ORINDA CLASSIC CAR SHOW SPONSORS
t5IFTIPXXJMMCFIFMEJO0SJOEB7JMMBHFBSPVOE0SJOEB.PUPSTBOEPO0SJOEB8BZ
t5IJTZFBSTDBSTIPXXJMMFYQBOEBHBJOUPJODMVEFUIFUIGBJSXBZBU0SJOEB Country Club with food and beverages served on the fairway!!! Presenting Sponsor: t $MBTTJDBOENPEFSOFYPUJDDBSTBTXFMMBTVOJRVFNPUPSDZDMFT t-BNPSJOEB*EPM8JOOFST1FSGPSNBODFBU/PPO Aetna, Bay Alarm, Bay Cities Paving t5IFSFXJMMCFB4QFDJBM&YIJCJUPGPVUTUBOEJOH1PSTDIFTGSPNUIFTUPUPEBZ Supporting Sponsors: and Grading, Berry Bros. Towing, Clark Thompson – Village BTXFMMBTBUI"OOJWFSTBSZ$PSSBMPG.VTUBOHT Associates, EPIC Insurance, Fed Ex Office, Fox 2 TV 36, John t4IBEFETFBUJOHGPSPWFSUPFOKPZMVODIBOESFGSFTINFOUTGSPNUIF$BS4IPX BBQ Booth and Orinda County Club Fairway Grill Muir Health, La Hermandad De Los Andes, Lamorinda Weekly, Mechanic’s Bank, Merrill Lynch, The Orinda News, Pacific t-PBSET*DF$SFBNBOE$BOEZ Business Centers, Park Place Advisors, Piccolo Napoli, Pulte t3JEFJOUIF1BSBEFPG$MBTTJD$BSTBUQN Homes, Recuerdo Wines, Rotary Club of Orinda, Safeway, t#VZB$BS4IPX54IJSUBOE$PNNFNFSBUJWFUI"OOJWFSTBSZ1PTUFS Proceeds benefit local charities: Seniors Around Town, Educational Foundation of Dr. Jess Santucci F Orinda, Orinda Historical Society Museum, Orinda Association, and other local charities “SPEED ON THE SCREEN” MOVIE SPONSOR Sunday urchase Your Tickets at OrindaCarShow.com. Presenting Sponsor: September 14th, 5:30 and 7:45pm “SPEED ON THE SCREEN” The Blues Brothers and Duel The presenting sponsor for this event is Flying A Gasoline. Wrap up a great Car Show Weekend with two classics at the art deco Orinda Theatre! From the great shopping mall car chase in The Blues Brothers to the out of control trucker and in your gut fear in Duel. A great pairing. Tickets available for $10 for each showing at the Car Show or at the door. Or, buy online at OrindaCarShow.com for only $8. Beer and Wine included. Pre Purchase Your Tickets at OrindaCarShow.com.
Parking ty CLASSIC CAR a n d ui rin m O m ch Pine Grove Co ur Business Center Ch SHOW PARKING Parking
Farmer’s • Orinda Community Church and Market Holden High School, Irwin Way Parking Vintage Court • Vintage Office Building, Orinda Way Oce Center • Pine Grove Business Center, Santa Maria Way SEEVENTEENTHVENTEENTH ANNUAL ANNUAL Opening Night Schedule: CALIFORNIA INDEPENDENT Thursday Sept. 11th at 5:30 PM FILM FESTIVAL Reception: 5:30PM with catering provided by Shelby’s of Orinda Wine: Kendall Jackson (Official Wine Sponsor); Vodka: Tito TH TH Handmade Vodka (Official Vodka Sponsor); Beer: Ale Industries SEPTEMBER 11 - 14 (Official Beer Sponsor); Rum: Papa's Pilar Rum (Official Rum Sponsor) MORAGA ORINDA SAN FRANCISCO Opening Night Short: Jerome’s Bouquet 7:00PM, Opening Night Film: An Evergreen Christmas 7:15PM Aspiring musician Evergreen Lee thought it would be a quick trip home: a funeral, a few well wishers, hang around for a couple days to help her grandfather and younger brother, then head back to Los Angeles. What she didn't expect to find in tiny Balsam Falls, TN was an impending estate tax jeopardizing her family's home and a large Christmas tree conglomerate with their sights on the family farm. Now, Evergreen must choose ... Special Event : Kramer vs. Kramer Saturday Sept. 13th at 7:00PM at Orinda Theatre $12 A just-divorced man must learn to care for his son on his own, and then must fight in court to keep custody of him. Starring Dustin Hoffman Meet Sp and Meryl Streep ecial Guest Oscar-Nominee Justin Henry will be in attendance
See Featured Films, Documentaries, 2014 Festival Sponsors2014 Festival Sponsors Silver Sponsors Silver Sponsors Relationship Shorts, Drama Shorts, Celebrity e Foun e Foun gl d gl d a a Presenting Sponsora a E t i Presenting Sponsor E t e o i h n e o T h n Shorts, Comedy Shorts, Documentary Shorts, T
J e z f t f r & a Bay Area Showcase, Sapporo Shorts Showcase J w e z Ed h f t y Sc f r & a E w dy Sch Bronze Sponsors at the Rheem Theatre, Moraga, Orinda Theatre, Bronze Sponsors Orinda and Castro Theatre, San Francisco Ticket Prices 2014 Festival Sponsors 2014 FestivGoldSilvera Plusl Sponsors Sponsor Sponsors Silver Sponsors le Foun General admission $12.00 2014 Festival Sponsorsg d a a Ocial Vodka Ocial Wine Ocial Rum Ocial Beer Presenting Sponsor Gold Plus SponsorE t Silver Sponsors e i 2014 Festival Sponsors o le Foun Silver Sponsors h n g d a a T Opening Night Reception & Movie $60.00 Presenting Sponsor E t 2014 Festival Sponsors i o e le F un o Silver Sponsors g d h Sn ilverSilver SponsorsSilver Sponsors Sponsors a a T E t Fou 2014Presenting Festival Sponsor Sponsors i le n 2014 Festival Sponsors e o g d 20142014 Festival Festival Sponsors Sponsors a a h Presenting Sponsor n E t T Silver Sponsorsi e o Opening Night Movie Only $20.00 e Fou Ocial Vodka Ocial Wine Ocial Rum Ocial Beer Fou l hGoldn Sponsor e n o o d n J gl dleaFg luenF un 2014 Festival Sponsors z a g g T d da e a J Presenting Sponsor t a E a a ta E t z Presenting Sponsor f E e E e t it PresentingPresenting Sponsor Sponsor r i f o t f e o i i e h e f o no r & Faou h n a le n h T h & n n g w dTJ w E a h a e T T z Ed h Closing Night Film and Cocktail Hour $15.00 d Ec f t y Sc Ocial Hotel Ocial Restaurant Ocial After Party Venue Presenting Sponsor y S t r i f SilverSilver SponsorsSponsors e o a J & e z h n w f t E h r 2014 Festival Sponsors T dy Sc f & a J w J Locale newspaper deliveredE z toh Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda J J z dyt Sc Foo e f z z eeF uunn f e ef t r All CAIFF Events and Movies are FREE for CAIFF Leading Role gll dd f f f r t a t Bronze Sponsors ag f f& r r a aa & a a w a PresentingPresenting SponsorSponsor Gold Sponsor EE tt & w &Ed h ii E y wc w ee J o d hE BronzeE S Sponsors o y c h h e z S dy cdy c Bronze Sponsors h S S h f nn t TT f r & a Silver Plus Sponsor w Bronze Sponsors Ed h Members y Sc Ocial Venues Sister Film Festival Co-Sponsor BronzeBronzeOcialBronzeB Sponsorsronze Sponsors HotelSponsors Sponsors Ocial Restaurant Ocial After Party Venue JJ ee zz ff tt ff rr && aa Bronze Sponsors EE ww Local newspaper delivered to Lafayette, Moraga and dOrindadyySScchh There are Two Ways to Purchase Tickets: A Proud Sponsor in 2014 Gold Plus Sponsor BBronzeronze Sponsors Gold Plus SponsorSilver Plus Sponsor Now on sale at Rheem or Orinda Theatre Box Offices or Gold Plus Sponsor Ocial Venues Sister Film Festival Co-Sponsor Gold Plus Sponsor GoldGold PlusGoldGold PlusSponsor Plus Plus Sponsor Sponsor Sponsor Ocial Vodka Ocial Wine Ocial Rum Ocial Beer Ocial Vodka Ocial Wine Ocial Rum Ocial Beer online at www.caiff.org. Gold Plus Sponsor Ocial Vodka Ocial Wine Ocial Rum Ocial Beer
OcialOcial VodkaOcialOcial Vodka Vodka Vodka Ocial Ocial Wine Ocial Ocial Wine Wine Wine Ocial Ocial Rum Ocial Ocial Rum Rum Rum Ocial Ocial Beer Ocial Ocial Beer Beer Beer Gold Sponsor Ocial Vodka Ocial Wine Ocial Rum Ocial BeerThank you to all our GGoldold Plus Sponsor Ocial Vodka Ocial Wine Ocial Rum Ocial Beer Gold Sponsor For more information about all the films go to www.caiff.org Gold Sponsor Ocial Hotel Ocial Restaurant Ocial After Party Venue Sponsors! GoldGold SponsorGGoldold Sponsor Sponsor Sponsor OcialOcial VodkaVodkaOcial Ocial Ocial Hotel WineWine Ocial Ocial Ocial Restaurant RumRum Ocial Ocial Ocial BeerBeer After Party Venue Local newspaper delivered to Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda Ocial Hotel Ocial Restaurant Ocial After Party Venue Gold Sponsor Local newspaper delivered to Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda Gold Sponsor OcialOcial HotelOcialOcial Hotel Hotel Hotel Ocial Ocial Restaurant Ocial Ocial Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Ocial Ocial After Ocial Ocial PartyAfter After After PartyVenue Party Party Venue Venue Venue Local Snewspaperilver delivered Plus to Lafayette,Sponsor Moraga and Orinda Local newspaper delivered to Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda Ocial Hotel Ocial Restaurant Ocial After Party Venue GoldGoldL ocalSponsor newspaperSLocalilver newspaperLocal delivered newspaperPlus to delivered Lafayette, deliveredSponsor to MoragaLafayette, to Lafayette, and Moraga Orinda Moraga and Orinda and Orinda Ocial Venues Sister Film Festival Co-Sponsor Silver Plus Sponsor Local newspaper delivered to Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda Ocial HotelOcial Venues Ocial RestaurantSister Film Festival Ocial After Co-Sponsor Party Venue Silver Plus Sponsor Ocial Venues Sister Film Festival Co-Sponsor SilverSilver PlusSilver PlusSponsor Plus Sponsor Sponsor OcialOcial HotelHotel Ocial Ocial RestaurantRestaurant Ocial Ocial AfterAfter PartyParty VenueVenue Ocial Venues Sister Film Festival Co-Sponsor Local newspaper delivered to Lafayette, MoragaSilver and Orinda Plus Sponsor OcialO cialVenuesOcial Venues Venues SisterS FilmisterSister Festival Film Film Festival Festival Co-Sponsor Co-Sponsor Co-Sponsor LLocalocal newspaper newspaper delivered delivered to to Lafayette, Lafayette, Moraga Moraga and and Orinda Orinda Ocial Venues Sister Film Festival Co-Sponsor Silver Plus SponsorSSilverilver PlusPlus SponsorSponsor OcialOOcial Venues Venues SSisteristerSister FilmFilm FestivalFestivalFilm Festival Co-Sponsor Co-Sponsor Co-Sponsor Wednesday, September 10, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A9 The Woodward Jones Team - Two Masters of Real Estate Joined to Provide World Class Service! 3366 Carlyle Terrace, Lafayette Lovely remodeled rancher with terrific views. Large flat grassy yard and great patio for entertaining. Charm and function meet to give you the For more information perfect home. call Frank or Tina 3366CarlyleTerrace.com $989,000 Frank Woodward Tina Jones WoodwardJonesTeam.com 925.330.2620 [email protected] Luxury Property Specialists
CalBRE# 01335916/0885925 ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. CalBRE License # 01908304 Mapping Orinda’s Road to Improvement By Laurie Snyder ennis Fay is a roads scholar – initiatives. Measure L, a half cent including parts of Lost Valley Road Distinctive design Dliterally. With a master’s de- sales tax given a thumbs-up in 2012, labeled 5, 6 or 7. Once repaved, seg- gree in transportation engineering “showed the willingness of the voters ments will receive scores of 100. from the big idea . . . to the smallest detail from the Massachusetts Institute of to put money behind their demands There is a margin of error of plus or Technology and over four decades in for improved roads. As we began to minus five, however, because up to Full services that field – including as executive di- use the money, it showed residents four specially trained people will as- at every step rector of the Alameda County Con- they could trust the city to spend these sess PCI – each a human being with a Orinda offices gestion Management Agency (now types of funds wisely.” slightly different eye. the Alameda County Transportation In June, Orindans supported In addition, storm drainage could Orinda resident Commission), the 20-year Orinda res- Measure J with 75 percent of the vote also alter priorities. A study underway 45 years ident understands firsthand the chal- – well above the 66 percent needed should make it easier for engineers to experience lenges of maintaining roads in for the measure’s passage. “That’s predict which drains and roads might New homes California’s shifting geological and pretty remarkable,” he said. Seasoned be at risk and prioritize accordingly, remodels budgetary landscapes. pollsters told Fay that most initiatives but if Mother Nature decides to send additions Currently chair of the Orinda Cit- face defeat right from the start. On av- another Tarabrookian deluge, certain California license izens’ Infrastructure Oversight Com- erage, 20 percent automatically vote streets could be pushed off the to-do NCARB Certificate mission, he has been a member since against any ballot measure – regard- list to facilitate emergency repairs. CIOC’s inception, and enjoys volun- less of the issue. So, when Measure J However, with California’s current References available teering with his fellow Orindans. garnered 75 of the 80 percent avail- drought, that doesn’t appear likely. So, “They’re a very dedicated group of able, Orindans were clearly declaring a long list of work is projected through people willing to put in the time to try in Henny Youngman-like fashion, October. Segments of Lost Valley and Bartlett to understand transportation issues. “Take my pothole. Please!” Charles Hill roads will receive atten- Architects They bring thoughtfulness to the de- To that end, on Sept. 2, the Orinda tion under Measure L, and several ar- liberation, asking questions about City Council approved criteria for se- terials and collectors will be repaved AIA why we do things the way we do and lecting roads to be repaired via Meas- separately from Measure L. whether or not we need to look at is- ures L and J. By the time the terms of both One Bates Boulevard Suite 201 Orinda, CA 94563 925 253 2880 sues differently.” One yardstick to be used is Pave- measures expire, said Fay, “We’re www.bartlettaia.com Laborare est Orare Fay is also a fan of residents for ment Condition Index. Orinda’s worst going to get at all of the roads in Orinda passing back-to-back infrastructure roads currently have PCIs of 1 to 25, that are in really terrible shape.”
ORINDA $2,295,900 ORINDA $995,000 5/4.5. New Construction. STUNNING 3/3. Pristine 1 Level Mid-Century Custom two story Spanish home w/open floor The Lamorinda Real Estate Firm people trust w/ a cool Art Deco vibe in the heart of plan. Glorietta. Glenn & Kellie Beaubelle CalBRE#00678426 Patti Camras CalBRE#01156248
MARTINEZ $1,198,000 ORINDA $2,285,900 MARTINEZ $725,000 MORAGA $1,275,000 ORINDA $1,295,000 3/2.5. Private w/views-4 acres. Gate to 4/4. New Construction. Visit 5/3. Custom Built Home on the 4/3. Fantastic Single Level! Expanded and 4/2.5. Nestled among the oaks in OCC. Briones Regional Park. Dramatic home- OrindaOaks.com! Lot 3 -Beautiful split Martinez Pleasant Hill Border offering updated 2722 sf, gourmet kitchen, low Vaulted ceilings, hdw floors, walls of Chef’s Kitchen. level. Close to town & transportation! Space & Privacy! maintenance yard on a cul-de-sac. windows. Views! McCann & Wilbur CalBRE#00946092/01268536 The Beaubelle Group CalBRE#00678426 Maureen Wilbur CalBRE#01268536 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 Bo Sullivan CalBRE#00954395
MORAGA $345,000 MORAGA $1,075,000 ORINDA $1,099,000 ORINDA $3,900,000 ORINDA $3,550,000 2/1. Fresh & Bright Condo! Light, spacious 5/2.5. Close to K-8 top rated Moraga Lovely updated single level home. 1986 4/4.2. Rare opportunity to buy newer 4/3. By Appt. Only. Serene contemporary rooms, balcony, great location! New schools. Great floor plan. Lovely backyard sqft 3 Br. + den, 2 Ba with gardens & great estate plus two adjacent lots. Gated, wine villa built in 1990 on 1.3 ac with amazing paint/carpet! w/ patio & gardens. views. cellar, gorgeous grounds w/pool & more! gardens, vistas & privacy. Suzanne Geoffrion CalBRE#01878803 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 The Hattersley’s CalBRE# 01181995/00445794
LAFAYETTE $1,799,000 LAFAYETTE $1,775,000 MORAGA $995,000 MORAGA $1,125,000 LAFAYETTE $850,000 6/4. Spacious Custom Home! 5112 sqft 5/3.1. Spectacular in Lafayette! Beautiful 4/2. Great Moraga Home! 2016 sf on flat 4/2.5. Gorgeous contemporary. 4/2. First time on market! Charming home on .31 acre lot on a cul-de-sac, large custom built home located in the coveted .46 acre lot in St. Mary’s Gardens, great Spacious rooms. Back yard oasis with on .45 acres. New hardwood floors, new bonus room, gourmet kitchen. Greenhill’s neighborhood. floor plan, terrific yard! pool. Valley view. paint, and fresh new landscaping. Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 Van Drent/McKay CalBRE# 01051129/01902466 Elena Hood CalBRE#01221247 Rick & Nancy Booth CalBRE#01388020/01341390 Chad Morrison CalBRE#01905614
PENDING PENDING PENDING PENDING PENDING
ORINDA $1,250,000 MORAGA $799,000 LAFAYETTE $995,000 LAFAYETTE $1,525,000 ORINDA $1,375,000 4/3. Beautfiully remodeled single level 2/3.5. Lovely MCC Townhome. 2,353 3/2. Situated on a quiet culdesac, this 4/3. Cape Cod in Burton Valley. Exceptional 4/3. Private, light & bright single story home in the Orinda Country Club. apprx SF, 2 car garage, 2 story, quintessential Lafayette rancher is quality & charm throughout. Ideal location. home with level yard & Mt. Diablo Hwd floors throughout. Extended FR & Laundry. convenient to BART and downtown. Gorgeous private yard Must see! views. Close to downtown. Zimmank/Neale CalBRE#00469962/01441356 Jason Evans CalBRE#01887768 Bev Arnold CalBRE#01154860 Susan Schlicher CalBRE#01395579 Maram Bata CalBRE#01435229
5 Moraga Way | Orinda | 925.253.4600 californiamoves.com 2 Theatre Square, Suite 211 | Orinda | 925.253.6300
©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Cal BRE License # 01908304 Page: A10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Each year 75,000 lbs of crayons end up in landfills. Recycle your Share your thoughts with our community! Opinions in Letters to the Editor are the unwanted or broken express views of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. All published letters will include the crayons! Just collect, writer's name and city/town of residence -- we will only accept letters from those who live in, or own a business in, box and ship them as the communities comprising Lamorinda (please give us your phone number for verification purposes only). they are, to Crazy Letters should be 350 words or less; letters of up to 500 words will be accepted on a space-available basis. Crayons. Leave the email: [email protected]; Regular mail: Lamorinda Weekly, P.O.Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570 wrappers on - they help to sort colors. Editor: In this reader's home, the little cotton plastic bag storage I am writing regarding the City Ventures proposed devel- bag in the kitchen, is visited numerous times daily to "get Ship to: opment on Country Club Drive. Now that the story poles a plastic", for some immediate need. Needs, that no brown Crayon Recycling, 16830 Edgewood Ave., Wayzata, MN 55391 are entirely erected, at least on the exterior of the property, paper bag can accommodate. E.g., holding fruit freshly a couple of design defects can be better visualized. picked from our home orchard, collecting trash for the 1. This is a development of significant size which will af- brown recycle waste barrel (and its daily accumulation of Lily Wescott fect the immediate neighborhood forever. Developments waste for the weekly collection) - plus of course. transport- of this kind as a real estate matter provide for resident park- ing perishables to the "blue waste barrel". And finally, hold- 925.330.6108 ing. This development does not adequately address parking. ing surplus clothing for curbside charitable organization ]A eÉv~vÄ|yy collections. www.LamorindaHome.com The solution as proposed and accepted by the town is to widen Country Club Drive, thereby having all overflow The fact that our kitchen cotton bag (used to collect the [email protected] REALTORS bags), often is always near empty - is constant proof of the CalBRE # 01368005 parking on the street. Well designed projects do not inflict their project limitations on their neighbors: I.e. their over- secondary use the bags enjoy, once home with store pur- Thinking of buying or selling a home? I can help! flow parking is restricted to their own property. See the de- chases. sign of Camino Peral and adjacent streets as examples. Donald Lively 2. The setback rule as approved at some level for the town Lafayette is to interpret the setbacks for the adjacent properties (be- ginning with the fire station) to be determined by the edge ORINDA ELECTION of their parking lot; not the edge of the improvements on the LeapFrog Plumbing property. This is not consistent with standard real estate prac- Editor: Looked under your tice. For instance, if this logic were continued all residential Please support Hillary Weiner for a seat on the OUSD Scary! development in Moraga could be construed to virtually be school board on November 4th. house lately? the edge of the property line, as adjacent properties have • Broken pipes With children in school together for the past five years, we driveways and often expanded parking pads for RV's, etc. have admired Hillary’s keen interest in education issues and • Holes in venting 3. The justification by the town to proceed for this devel- her commitment to school volunteerism, most recently • Electrolysis opment as designed has been to point to the Moraga Spe- serving as president of the Glorietta Parent’s Club. Hillary • Sneaky leaks Reg. $225* cific Plan, which permits high density construction at this FREE is a steady and thoughtful leader who thinks objectively site. Experts have claimed that the intent was to anticipate and analytically. She understands that effective leadership Preventive another office building or a retirement home so as to avoid Plumbing Inspection requires an inclusive approach to building relationships Head Frog Mo Williams parking and traffic issues with the design so-far approved. with the school community and its many partners. *most houses, homeowners only, thru 9/30/14 To be consistent with the plan however, the minimum num- As a member of the board, Hillary will respect and value FAMILY‐OWNED ‐ & HOPPING TO IT FOR YOU ‐ SINCE 1993! ber of units on this site would be 36.76: reasonably mean- the views of her fellow board members and the governance ing "37," as was pointed out the to Design Review Board LeapFrog Plumbing has served Contra Costa and Alameda Counties process. Hillary’s temperament and attitude will enable her by the town's own consultant during a public meeting. In for 20 years (it’s hard to believe it's been that long). to find common ground and build bridges on controversial other words, the town is employing "discretion" to restrict and contentious issues. She will govern pragmatically and We’re a family‐owned business that provides top‐quality plumbing the number to 36. services to residential and commercial customers. with an appreciation for the limited human and financial The design review board's plan for this site is an abuse of resources available to the district. Most importantly, their discretion. If you can erect 36 units instead of 37, why • Bathrooms & kitchens • Gas and water lines Hillary’s overriding concern will always be the best inter- can you not simply erect 25 units, the number which would • Sewers & drains • Green solutions ests of all OUSD students. make the development consistent with the neighborhood and • Water heaters • Safety and whole‐house inspections Our family will have three children in Orinda schools for substantially resolve parking, aesthetic and traffic issues? years to come. We hope that our children will be fortunate So far, the problem here is not City Ventures, who have enough to have Hillary serving on the OUSD school board. acted honorably to find some compromise. It is the town We Hop To It! of Moraga, its politics and other things. Jason and Jennifer Lurie Orinda Family-owned and serving Gerry Tanner Lamorinda since 1993 Moraga Editor: green solutions! Editor: While the majority of Orindans were busy tending to their families and careers, our City Council intentionally allowed My wife and I gratefully thank the many people of Lamor- Eden Housing’s Monteverde Apartments to exceed the 35 (925) 377-6600 inda that have endured the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge and foot height limit delineated in our General Plan. In case you CA Lic those who donated for ALS research. Our son Jean-Pierre were wondering if this apartment building would solve a 929641 www.LeapFrogPlumbing.com Lescure (Campolindo 1984) , an avid outdoor person be- problem for Orinda's empty nesters, Eden is legally prohib- came a victim of ALS at 46 and now, two years later, is ited from giving preferential treatment to current Orinda res- faced with having to use a wheelchair for any mobility. The idents in the renter selection process. I encourage you to worst is yet to come, greater difficulty with speech, swal- look at this structure on 2 Irwin Way (across the street from lowing and breathing, then total paralysis. As the parents Safeway) and decide for yourself if it conforms to the semi- of a ALS victim, it is very difficult to watch your child face rural character of Orinda described in our General Plan. Lafayette Motors a dreadful death. Independent service and repair for Mercedes Benz Meanwhile, Fountainhead Montessori Preschool, a re- It is most likely a cure or even medication, if found by re- spected and popular fixture in Orinda, had undergone an search now, will be too late for Jean-Pierre but your dona- extensive Planning Commission review of its plan to relo- tions will eventually benefit someone else. Keep in mind JERRY FIGUEROA cate to the former Phair’s building site. The plan was ap- that you do not have to endure the ALS Ice Bucket Chal- proved by a 5-2 vote, with the then-chairman one of the no lenge to make a donation. R votes. This approval was appealed by an Orinda resident R Keith and Suzeline Lescure and City Council overturned the Planning Commission’s I `&$I 1 8H I Moraga decision. A Public Records Act request by concerned citi- zens revealed numerous e-mails involving a developer and Editor: several Orinda decision makers regarding a future, large Deafening silence. commercial development on this very property, including Over our long holiday weekend Israel announced it has recommendations on raising the height limit without revis- Lafayette Motors seized almost 1000 acres of land inhabited and farmed by ing the General Plan so as to increase profitability. Palestinians for over 1000 years. This is all very consistent with the 4th Cycle Housing Ele- Independent service and repair for Jaguar The UN, Britain, France, and Egypt have all condemned ment adopted by City Council in 2013 after considerable this, the largest Israeli land grab in 30 years. The US has public turmoil due to its blatant pro-developer verbiage which remained in the final draft despite Council and Staff's CARLOS “KIKO” CAICEDO expressed “concern” but continues to give Israel over 8 mil- lion dollars each day in military aid pledge to remove it. We could use that money right here in America creating If you believe that a small group of influential insiders R jobs and repairing our crumbling infrastructure. Instead we should not determine Orinda’s future, that issues such as R crime are more important than encouraging high-rise de- I `&$I 1 8H I are enabling the merciless killing of more innocent civilians and the destruction of Gazan homes and infrastructure, es- velopment, and that our semi-rural character is precious, please join me in voting for only Eve Phillips in the City timated at 6 billion dollars. As of this writing, not one US Senator or Congressman has Council Election. even commented on the seizure – a gross and inhumane vi- Bruce London olation of international law. Apparently their fear of the Is- Orinda raeli lobby trumps their interest in humanitarian justice. Got Closets? Get Organized! Our silence is deafening and can only serve to lower our Editor: standing in the international community. If Lionel Ritchie was an Orinda voter … he would be Money can buy elections but it should not be allowed to changing his tune. undermine our commitment to freedom, liberty and hu- Lamorinda manitarian justice. Once. Twice. Three times a lady! But a 20-year rule seems a bit shady. Forrest J. Cioppa The fourth bore is done. Closets Moraga It’s time to have fun. Organized for Life So why are you really running again, Amy? Editor: Is dispensing millions as MTC Chair, Call Kevin today The community social engineers seem incapable of allow- Really the reason that you care? ing ordinary folks to just enjoy any available life simplifi- 925.451.6436 Or is it sidekicks, Baltodano and Orr, cations - especially, those not tapping our pocket books (or Who need your coattails to stay on board? and ask for a adding new unwanted home chores). Thank you, Ms Worth, but no more can one bear. free consultation The latest such intrusion - banning plastic grocery bags! Presumably, basing this latest campaign on a TV show of With libraries and tunnels, you did shine. masses of bags floating on/contaminating an ocean surface It’s your development actions that fall out-of-line. Lamorinda Closets can help somewhere. With high-density housing, Montessori, and such, you update and reorganize Semi-rural Orinda finds that you’ve grown out-of-touch. the closets in your home What is ignored is the great utility of such containers. Not Kevin Healey, Owner only for groceries, but a wide range of other products. And For Miramonte’s own, Eve Phillips, it’s time. most important, the after market utility the bags provide in Owen Murphy 3330 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite 307 • Lafayette numerous home applications. Applications, which virtually Orinda [email protected] no brown paper bag counterpart, can possibly satisfy. ... continued on next page LamorindaClosets.com Wednesday, September 10, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A11 Civic News Fire Districts
An Expectation of Curran & Woolsey Real Estate Team Inconvenience By Nick Marnell Just Listed! he mere mention of the word said Carman, though the district has Stunning Tradi onal Rancher on Premium Lot Tovertime in the context of the just completed a training academy fire service can bring on arrhythmia. and has scheduled one more this fall Management does not want to force to help fill vacancies. Healy said overtime on its firefighters. In many that the payroll percentage saved by cases the firefighters do not want to paying overtime is similar in his dis- work so much overtime. The public trict. has reacted with outrage over fire- “I’d much rather the districts hire fighter overtime pay. But overtime is more firefighters,” said Wells, who a fact of firefighting life, and it has noted that in the East Contra Costa lately morphed from a nuisance to a County Fire Protection District, the near crisis. firefighters have had enough. “Be- “One of the first things I tell our cause of the demands of excessive recruits is to prepare to give up your overtime, the district is closing a sta- evenings, weekends and holidays,” tion. The situation was jeopardizing said Moraga-Orinda Fire District the health and safety of the firefight- chief Stephen Healy. “And you’ll be ers.” missing a lot of birthdays and special Both Lamorinda fire agencies family occasions. I advise them that maintain a list of personnel available this job has a built-in expectation of to work voluntary overtime, but the inconvenience, which includes work- ConFire list is not long enough to fill ing overtime.” the vacancies. 1336 Reliez Valley Road, Lafaye e Both MOFD and the Contra “I’m thinking I’m getting off at 8 O ered at $1,825,000 Costa County Fire Protection District (a.m.), but I get a notice of a manda- use a constant staffing model, cover- tory and I’m not going anywhere,” Lovely sprawling 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 3676+ sq. . located on .58+ acre. ing a week with three 56-hour shifts said ConFire captain Maurice How- Gourmet kitchen, open oor plan, expansive private level yard with beauful gardens. of three-person engine companies per ell. “That’s because only 18 guys Close proximity to downtown Lafaye e. California living at its best! fire station. All 56 hours are paid at signed up for 27 openings. There’s no regular time. (Additionally, ConFire one to relieve you.” www.1336ReliezValleyRd.com employs three training captains and Howell said he was warned early MOFD staffs its own ambulances.) in his career about the overtime trap. Christine Curran & Lauren Woolsey ConFire has 26 vacancies for its 210 “I’ve been mando’d on my kid’s 925.285.5336 I 925.899.9837 positions while MOFD is two short of birthday,” said the Lafayette resident. Lic.#01079009 I Lic.#01940797 a complete staff of 57. Filling those “But to me, the biggest thing? The www.atHomeInLamorinda.com open slots and absences requires family dinners missed.” He said it is overtime. In fiscal year 2013-14, a challenge to spend quality time at ConFire paid $9.5 million in over- home. “The wife acts as a single par- time; MOFD, $1.5 million. ent. I try to parent by phone, but it’s “You don’t down-staff to cover not the same. I try to make the most vacancies,” said Vince Wells, Local of my days off with the family, but 1230 president. “But I get concerned my wife has a routine of her own. I when overtime is so excessive that the come home, and I disrupt it.” firefighters don’t want to work and “It takes a strong spouse,” added you’re forcing them to.” And they are MOFD captain Tony Perry. “The forced to, though they may trade off spouse is part of the process. I will their shifts. Turning down mandatory tell you, this job is affecting a new re- overtime outright is a refusal of a di- lationship I’m in.” rect order and is subject to discipli- Second jobs are no longer as nary action. prevalent among firefighters. “This ConFire chief Jeff Carman is also is my second job,” said Howell, who concerned that his firefighters are worked more than 3,600 hours in working excessive mandatory over- 2013. After their July pay cut, many time. “They’re sometimes working MOFD firefighters count on the 120 consecutive hours in order to overtime. “I’m one of the highest keep our companies in service,” he paid firefighters in the district, and I said. “I worry about a wrong decision still need the overtime,” said Perry. or an injury.” “We’re grateful to have it.” Some fire districts carry extra “But to go home to our families people on the books for fill-in, but after a shift, that’s what it’s all about,” that business model is more expen- said Howell. “The money doesn’t sive. “It’s 26 percent cheaper to pay hurt, but there’s nothing like sleeping overtime than to add personnel,” at home.” Saturday, September 20th 10-7 PM Sunday, September 21st 10-6 PM Downtown Lafayette Moraga-Orinda Contra Costa Fire District Board of 19th annual Board of Supervisors Directors Meetings Meetings Next meeting: Next meeting: FREE •Admission Wednesday, Sept. 17 TBA check website for updates Board Chamber room 107, •Parking at BART (Go to www.mofd.org as the meeting Administration Building, •Shuttle to event 651 Pine St. Martinez date approaches for location and •Bike Valet Parking more information) (Agenda at http://ca-contracosta- county2. civicplus.com/4664/Board- Meeting-Agendas-and-Videos)
BENEFITING Take BART ... continued Just 1 block away
Editor: 20 & 21 The 2014 election for city council is the most important city council election 4 since Orinda became an incorporated city 30 years ago. Orinda was such a great place to live then. Residents did not have to worry that our city government THE SUN KINGS s FOREVERLAND s AJA VU s PETTY THEFT s would pass regulations that would destroy our semi-rural environment. Now, s STEALIN’ CHICAGO s ZEBOP s THE SPAZMATICS s THE BIG JANGLE s we have Monteverde towering over North Orinda because our building height EAST BAY MUDD NIGHT MOVES BAY BRIDGE BEAT DUO GADJO limits were ignored by the current City Council. What's next? Increased high- s s s s s density development is taking hold with our current City Council members, af- s OTHER PEOPLE’S MONEY s JUICE s BOB ATHAYDE & FRIENDS s fecting every aspect of our community. s ACOUSTIC S&M s JUKE JOINT s RED HOUSE ALL STARS s DOMINANT 7 s
Ask yourself: Is living in Orinda better or worse than four, eight, or 10 years Presenting Sponsor Presenting Sponsor Festival Sponsor Festival Sponsor ago? For the city's residents, a more appealing Orinda is vital. Eve Phillips and Linda Delehunt, both candidates for the Orinda City Council in 2014, will help assure that Orinda -- again -- becomes a great place to live. They will support what the people want, not the interests of big development. Orinda needs new leadership. Ms. Phillips and Ms. Delehunt, if elected to the city council, will protect the quality of Orinda's schools, help end the intolerable parking and traffic condi- tions that bedevil the downtown area, protect residents' views of the scenic hills, fix the roads, and enforce Orinda's 35-foot height limit for buildings. When casting your ballot for city council, please vote for Eve Phillips and Linda Minuteman Press Delehunt. The city you protect will be your own. Lafayette www.lafayettefestival.com Sandra Wooten www.facebook.com/lafayettefestival @friendly chamber #LafFest Orinda Page: A12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 10, 2014 American Kitchen Opens in Lafayette By Sophie Braccini to start a restaurant in Hawaii, he man who has a reputation for asking food, great service and a beautiful, in- jumped at the chance and hasn’t 110 percent from his crew. timate location, he has the winning stopped cooking since. “I love the excitement of the day- formula that will make people want Watching him at work in his to-day, and everyday is an opportu- to come back over and over again. kitchen, it seems clear that he has nity to win people over,” says Ivry, American Kitchen found his calling. A gourmet who en- who concludes with something his 71 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette joys the good things in life, he likes to mother told him when he opened (925) 385-0352 experiment and try new twists on old Table 24. “You won't be judged by favorites. We found Rivera and his who comes to your restaurant, you Lamorinda Weekly business articles are intended to inform the community about local business team creating a new brine and spice will be judged by who returns to your activities, not to endorse a particular company, mix for the brisket that will become restaurant.” Ivry is sure that with great product or service. the house pastrami, and preparing house-smoked salmon. American Kitchen began serving business briefs breakfast and lunch on Aug. 25, and added dinner hours a few days later. Theaters for Sale “We are starting with a dinner menu Just as the 17th Annual California Independent Film Festival gears up for open- that pulls some elements from the ing night comes word that the two different owners of the Rheem Theatre and lunch menu. With a new restaurant, Orinda Theatre Square are putting up “For Sale” signs. In Orinda, GLL Prop- you want to do things and you want erties is selling Theatre Square after completely turning the center around during to do them well, before you expand,” its eight years of management. And in Moraga, Mahesh Puri wants to sell the explains Rivera. “As the teams get property that encompasses the theater and shops all the way to Ristorante Amoroma. Commercial real estate broker Dave Schnayer said that Puri is asking trained and patrons’ preferences be- $4.75 million for the property. Derek Zemrak, co-founder of the California An- come clear, we will modify the menu nual Independent Film Festival Association that leases and operates both the- to follow our clients’ inclination.” aters, said that he and his team are planning to continue to manage the businesses Appetizers include deep fried as usual. sweet pickles and quick-roasted olives; among the entrées are pastrami on rye, The Secret Phrase is “Orinda-mazing” a “true cod” slider with fennel slaw, ECHO Grove burgers, salads, and homemade 2 Theatre Square, #112, Orinda chorizo that adds a delicious, smoky (925) 253-1266, www.echogrovestore.com From left: Chef Allan Rivera and Victor Ivry in front of their new Lafayette flavor to a mussels and frites dish that’s restaurant, American Kitchen. Photo Sohie Braccini Orinda’s newest gift shop bound to become a favorite. “We make has announced a fun fall merican Kitchen is Victor Ivry's the burgeoning food mecca. our own chorizo and we will brine our promotion that reflects the Anew baby. The Orinda resident, The charming and relaxed atmos- own sauerkraut,” says Rivera. Since store’s appreciation for the sports coach and commercial real es- phere quickly drew curious patrons everything is made right there, Rivera warm welcome it has re- tate professional, who entered the and Rivera started sending out the food can cater to different dietary needs ceived from the city. Start- restaurant business four years ago with he loves – a mix of traditional regional from vegetarian to gluten or dairy free. ing Sept. 1, shoppers who the opening of Table 24, and later Bar- foods from the Deep South, the mid- “You just have to ask,” he says. say the secret phrase will bacoa, in Theatre Square with partner Atlantic, Midwest and Northeast. As Sitting on the patio after a lunch be rewarded with a free Michael Karp, recently opened Amer- Rivera puts it, he pulls from the whole service, Ivry enjoys a moment’s handmade charm. The ican Kitchen in Lafayette. Ivry has a breadth of American comfort food. respite before debriefing with the charms are custom de- new partner in this venture, eclectic In college Rivera studied philos- team and talking finance with the signed and handmade ex- chef Allan Rivera, and is taking full ophy and pre-law, but after graduating local investors who have helped him clusively for Echo Grove by one of its favorite makers. They can be attached advantage of the completely reno- he decided that law school wasn’t for manifest his dream. “This is the best to backpacks, key chains, charm bracelets, or wine glasses. No purchase is nec- vated 80-year-old cottage, and its him and instead traveled the country patio in town,” he says. Although he essary, and the charms will not be available for purchase, so the only way to get shaded grounds, on Lafayette Circle. to find himself. He always had a love retains part-ownership of Barbacoa them is to utter the secret phrase. September’s secret phrase is “Orinda-mazing.” American Kitchen brings distinctive of cooking, born in the family kitchen and Table 24, Ivry is thrilled to be cre- The first two charms highlight a “back to school” spirit. One features the Mira- dishes and flavors gathered from that mixed Italian and Puerto Rican ating something new and exciting. monte Matadors logo and the second charm bears a small detail of the historic across the United States, contrasting origins with the flavors of New York. “We work very hard here, but this is Orinda Union School. Subsequent charms will feature Orinda landmarks, with the prevalent California vibe of When presented with the opportunity casual and comfortable,” says the events, people and other images that honor Orinda, its history and community. “Our hope is that people get excited about collecting the charms and we continue issuing a new design throughout 2015,” said Echo Grove co-owner Margaret Lafayette Family Opens Food Truck Doty. By Zoe Portnoff my custard ice cream to many peo- Free Flagship Seminar ple,” says Tankka. Career Wisdom Institute IzzyA’s Frozen Ice Cream Cus- 1036 Country Club Dr, #100, Moraga tard and Treats serves gourmet frozen (925) 212-7805, www.careerwisdominstitute.com The Career Wisdom Institute will be offering a seminar, “Inside Job, 8 Secrets ice cream custard, a delicious concoc- to Loving Your Work and Thriving,” from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 26. tion distinguished from ice cream by There is a $10 seat-holding fee. “This seminar is great for men and women in a single additional ingredient – egg career transitions,” says institute partner Sherry Berman. “Anyone struggling yolk – that creates a creamier, richer with work, either finding it, keeping it or wanting work to be more meaningful, texture. And since the dessert is pre- will benefit from this event.” The seminar is designed to teach the secrets of pared at the place of sale, rather than satisfying and lucrative work and that passion, heart, and spirit have cash value stored, consumers are guaranteed a in today’s market. fresh treat. Frozen ice cream custard was in- Moraga Employee of the Month From left: Alex, Isabelle, Tina, and Tom Tankka Photos provided vented in 1919, when two ice cream makers on Coney Island discovered hat do you get when you daughters, Alex and Isabelle, for that adding egg yolk to their recipe Wcross a food truck with a whom the company, izzyA’s Frozen created a unique texture, and also frozen treat? IzzyA’s Frozen Ice Ice Cream Custard and Treats, is helped their ice cream stay at a cooler Cream Custard and Treats, a new named. temperature. venture by a Lafayette family. You "I loved the idea of the mobility Simply put, “It’s ice cream at its can try izzyA’s frozen dessert straight of a food truck, allowing me to offer finest,” says Tankka. from the truck at the Lafayette Art and Wine Festival Sept. 20-21. Tina Tankka’s interest in opening a food truck stems from her passion for creating gourmet food and her catering experience. From home din- ner parties, to contributing food and From left: Kevin Reneau, Julia Hoang, Danielle Gossell and Debbie Roessler service to Lafayette Library and Photo provided Learning Center community events, Danielle Gossell, a lead dental assistant and community relations assistant for Cal Shakes, and local schools, Tankka Lamorinda Dental, has been named the Moraga Employee of the Month for prides herself on an experience in August. Gossell has played a critical role in building the new dental practice taste, quality ingredients and presen- operated by Dr. Julia Hoang, which began in 2012 and has over 600 current pa- tation. She is joined in her business by tients. She will be presented with her award, along with gift cards to Safeway her husband, Tom, and her two and Mountain Mike’s Pizza, at the Moraga Rotary luncheon on Sept. 23. News from the Chambers of Commerce • Comfortable, Convenient Lafayette “Nothinging Family and The Art & Wine Festival is just around the corner! The annual event will be ““NothingN“Nothingoth open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. makes meme Cosmetic Dentistry mmakesmakesakes me me on Sunday, Sept. 21 in downtown Lafayette. The festival offers non-stop music happierr tthanhan • Certified in Full Mouth and dancing, unique wine and beer offerings, food choices everywhere, original happierhahappierppie than than fine art and crafts. New this year, local artists will create original pieces of art to see Reconstruction ttooto ssee eseee to the rhythms of the Fiesta Stage (see article page A1). The fair is family and you smile!”mile!” dog friendly and features a large Kids Zone. For more information, go to yyouoyouu ssmile!” smile!” http://lafayettefestival.com. Moraga Shred Event next to 5A Rent A Space, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept.13, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Providing Personalized Care through Quality Dentistry FFamilyFamilyamily & & CosmeticC Cosmeticosmetic DentistryD Dentistryentistry PProvidingroProvidingviding PersonalizedPe Personalizedrsonalized CareCa Carere throughth rthroughough QualityQ uQualityality DentistryD eDentistryntistry 455 Moraga Rd. - $5/Banker Box size. Orinda Don’t miss the 10th Annual Orinda Classic Car Show, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sat- $40 off urday, Sept. 13. Go to www.orindacarshow.com for information about this and Scott D. Lothamer, DDS $40 off other events taking place during the Classic Car Show Weekend. Scott D. MoragaLothamer, DDS mention this ad to 925-376-4602Moraga receivemention $40 this off ad any to If you have a business brief to share, please contact 925-376-4602 receivedental $40 tretment off any Member: 1030 Country Club Drive dental tretment ADA • CDAMember: • CCDS • AACD Sophie Braccini at [email protected] 1030 Country Club Drive ADA CDA CCDS AACD Wednesday, September 10, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A13
Civic News Moraga From Front Page Infusion of Contemporary New Art Form Makes Debut Spin at Art Design for Rancho Laguna II and Wine Festival ... continued from page A5 ... continued from page A1 The architectural choices of the landscape. Now the hills are bare He and fellow artist Bill including Kaleo Ching and Judy Gallery, across from Diablo Foods Dahlin Group are commensurate – the result of years of grazing – Carmel walked into the Jennifer Chamberlin, will be doing the for those who would like to take a with higher-end homes – wood, and the residents were concerned Perlmutter Gallery in Lafayette trAction painting, but on a smaller peek or purchase. stone, crafty architectural details, that creating rows of trees along and spoke to Perlmutter, pitching vertical surface. Because the fes- Artists are slated to be painting with some modern simplifica- the road that will serve the devel- the idea of a collaboration at the tival is so popular, there just isn’t from 12:30 to 6 p.m. on both Sat- tions and integration of indoor opment would look odd. The Art and Wine Festival. Perlmut- room to do the large-scale bicycle urday and Sunday, Sept. 20 and 21, and outdoor spaces that will ap- board recommended that the de- ter was enchanted, so her gallery version; attendees can watch the at the Fiesta Stage tucked into the peal to young, affluent families. veloper smooth the landscaping is generously donating the can- process as it develops to produce small street just past the The In its report, staff called out and integrate it seamlessly into vases and organizing the artists. the bright, musically inspired Cooperage American Grille off of some details it found to be at odds the natural surroundings. She describes the upcoming exhi- pieces. Lafayette Circle. For more infor- with the rest of the design: a flat The board also approved the bition as “exactly the kind of All of the artists are donating mation on John Barry and his un- roof above a bedroom and op- installation of wood fences along community/art hybrid event that I their time and talent to produce conventional art of skainting tional porch, a tower rising above the back yards of the properties love to share.” these one-of-a-kind works. Perl- (skating painting), go to www.trac- the ridgeline, cable elements sup- that will be built on Rheem Unfortunately Barry had exist- mutter will also have larger trAc- tion-painting.com. Complete de- porting a flat roof above an entry Boulevard to give homeowners ing plans to visit England during tion art from Barry, along with tails about the Art and Wine that staff found to be too indus- some privacy – the entrances to the days the festival is being held, other pieces from a variety of Festival can be found at trial-looking. Board members re- these homes will be from a pri- so Carmel, along with other artists artists on display in the Perlmutter www.lafayettefestival.com. acted positively to the design as a vate road and their back yards whole, and opinions were divided will be seen from the boulevard. about the modern elements; some Board member John Glover cited liked the roofs they found appeal- the Sonsara development, where ing and interesting, but not the ca- thick, varied landscaping between bles, and vice versa. The board’s the fencing and Camino Ricardo decisions are based on approved creates a pleasant feel for passers- design guidelines to which every by. project in town must conform. Final approval by the Design You ’ll Two neighbors on Birchwood Review Board is expected in the Drive asked questions about the coming months.
Civic News Orinda OUSD Board Candidates think Talk Common Core ... continued from page A6 Aware that some are con- about the apparent de-emphasis cerned about losing local control, on social studies and civics. Brown observed that “most peo- “Civic Education has to be at the highly ple are not trained in education heart of education.” theory. While OUSD needs to “Going deeper into subject have a say in setting its own cur- matter to create true understand- riculum, when it comes to how to ing of concepts will be more use- of our low rate lock. teach a child, I need to trust the ful than just learning a formula,” experts – the teachers.” said Julie Rossiter. “If students Jason Kaune said Common can get to that actual level of un- Core reached his radar earlier derstanding and learn how to rea- than many other parents because son, rather than just broadly If you’re moving or refi nancing, you’ll love to lock in a low he has corporate clients who were mastering historical facts, they 1 required to start building tools to might be better able to apply their $ rate on your home loan – and SAFE Credit Union can make address the standards before they learning in later life.” 3,000 UP TO it happen. With SAFE’s special limited-time 5/1 Adjustable became a national concern. “Like But she too is uncertain where TOWARD CLOSING COSTS most changes, there is good and Common Core will lead. “At our Rate Mortgage (ARM), you’ll get a great low rate that won’t bad. Teachers seem to appreciate last meeting, we had a lot of budge for fi ve years.2 That should get your feet moving! For how Common Core will let them board policies to be revised. Math innovate and change the way they is a work in progress. We need to today’s low rates or to speak to your local SAFE Mortgage teach. Math may be problematic, make sure that we teach in the Offi cer, call (800) SEE-SAFE, but you have to just manage that best possible way, and ensure that change, and make sure that kids kids coming out of our district ext. 2772 or visit who can advance have the oppor- can take the highest level of math safecu.org/homeloans. tunity to do so.” Having seen the at whatever high school they at- implementation level long tend. In the past, you could have enough, he believes that “some certain kids skip pre-algebra for making it a flashpoint read a lot geometry. Now you can’t do that. into it. It has become a symbol for You can’t just eliminate an entire NMLS# 466072 1Credits for closing costs cannot be applied to discount points or loan-level price adjustments. Not available for FHA or VA loans, or refi nance of people upset with change. I view level.” She feels OUSD must an existing SAFE loan. Owner-occupied properties only. Subject to credit approval and membership eligibility. Other restrictions may apply. Off er Common Core favorably – weav- offer acceleration options at mid- only available to members who live or work in Contra Costa County. Complete application must be submitted by 09/21/14. See SAFE for details. 2APR for 30-year amortization 5/1 ARM accurate as of 6/25/2014 and may increase after consummation. Initial fi xed rate during the fi rst 60 months ing flexibility in so that our coun- dle and high school levels, and is 3.00% (3.030% APR) with monthly payment of $421.60 per $100,000 borrowed. Rate and payment may increase after 60 months based on 1-Year Libor Index as published in the Wall Street Journal plus a margin of 2.25% for the next 12 months. Based on current index, thereafter rate is 2.75% try’s students learn what they has urged the board to enact a (2.819% APR) with monthly payment of $408.24, per $100,000 borrowed. Interest rate may adjust annually thereafter. need to learn. A thoughtful policy enabling students depart- process of rethinking what you do ing Orinda’s middle school to and trying to do it better is a good take calculus rather than pre-cal- thing.” He is concerned, however, culus.
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Retirement Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care Page: A14 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, September 10, 2014 Civic News Lamorinda Meet the Candidates for High School General Contractor Governing Board 925.631.1055 www.MVCRemodeling.com By Cathy Tyson Specializing in kitchens & bathrooms. our candidates are seeking three ture the great education that her kids Yucca Valley, which is about 30 miles All forms residential remodel/repair. Favailable seats on the Acalanes received, and stressed the need to pro- north of Palm Springs. He also served Union High School District governing vide professional development for on the city council for Yucca Valley. Lic# 681593 board. It will be up to voters in teachers. Upon his retirement in 2007 he came “A little bit of myself Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, and Wal- back to the area. He says he loved goes into every job.” nut Creek to decide who will win the teaching and the opportunity to impact Michael VerBrugge, non-paid, non-partisan four-year posi- young people’s lives; he’s a big be- President, tions. Watching over 5,416 students in liever in public education, enjoys read- Moraga Resident grades 9-12 at Acalanes, Campolindo, ing and jogs every day. He graduated Clean | Courteous | Conscientious Las Lomas, and Miramonte high and received his teaching credential On-time | Trustworthy | Local References schools, along with the adult education from Chico State University. Full design team resources available and alternative schools, isn’t easy. The He believes the biggest issue fac- board acts as the legislative body for ing the district is providing a quality the district, establishing policies and education within the existing budget goals. Some of the issues board mem- framework. He feels that should in- bers deal with include conference with clude music, the arts and sports. As a legal counsel about existing litigation teacher with years of hands-on experi- in closed session, field trip requests, Photo provided ence, he believes maintaining high textbook adoption and discussion with Susie Epstein has served on the quality staff is also critically important. union representatives, use of pesticides governing board since 2010. She was He has realized through his many years on campus, staff development and the a board member of the Miramonte of teaching and dealing directly with budget. The district ranks in the top 4 Parents Club from 2010 to 2013 and students, that they need an advocate. percent of all high schools in the U.S. has held a variety of positions support- Call Tom The lucky winners will get to do- ing Orinda schools – funding cam- for a free Since 1993! estimate nate their time on the first and third paigns for Del Rey, Orinda Tom Gieryng, owner and operator Wednesdays of each month at the dis- Intermediate School and for Mira- trict office in Lafayette, where the pub- monte High School; she was also a lic is always welcome to attend and classroom volunteer. She has two kids weigh in on issues of concern. The who have gone through our public next board meeting will be on Sept. school system. She says her favorite C abinet M odifications 17. The agenda is always available on- day of the year is graduation day, when line three days prior to the meeting. she has had the privilege of handing With over 25 years fulfilling custom needs, we can alter or modify There are two incumbents, Susie diplomas to hundreds of graduating most cabinetry, while still utilizing your existing cabinetry for: Epstein and Nancy Kendzierski, run- seniors for each of the past four years. • Large TVs/ Refrigerators and appliances ning, and two new contenders, Kristen She was awarded the Su Stauffer Licensed Cabinet & Photo Cathy Tyson • Recycle Bins and shelf pullouts Millwork Contractor Correll and Robert Hockett; the candi- Friends of Education award, Acalanes • Cabinet alterations/repairs #598395 dates are presented here in alphabetical Union High School District in 2010. Nancy Kendzierski was ap- Thinking about home, office, entertainment, custom cabinetry, shelving, order. She attended the University of Col- pointed to the governing board last crown mouldings, baseboards, new doors or mantels? We can help there, too! orado, Boulder. For more information, September. She’s married and has two 925.827.1093 Paul Kephart Master Craftsman see her website at sons; the elder has graduated from www.TheCabinetMd.com www.susieepstein.com. Campolindo, and her younger son is a When asked about the biggest junior. She received a computer sci- issue that’s facing the district, she ence degree, summa cum laude from replied, “The biggest issue we face Iowa State University. She currently right now is implementing the transi- is serving on the executive board of the tion to Common Core. In addition to Moraga Education Foundation, and is curriculum changes, we will be mov- the auditor of the Las Trampas Creek 3URIHVVLRQDO,QVWDOODWLRQ$YDLODEOH ing to a new set of assessments and Council of PTAs. She was also the CARPET, VINYL, LAMINATE, TILE,#!,,&/2! HARDWOOD&2%% we'll need to communicate to students treasurer of the AUHSD Measure A CALL). (/-%%34)-!4% FOR A FREE and parents how these differ from pre- parcel tax campaign for the May, 2014 IN-HOME ESTIMATE vious tests and scores.” She added, election. She has a long history of do- “While Common Core is a challenge, nating her time at a wide variety of 925-828-96004XDOLW\:RUN Photo provided 'HSHQGDEOH6HUYLFH it is also an exciting time as we are on volunteer positions at Los Perales, OP AT HOM SH We will E Quality Work & Service for over 13 years. Kristen Correll and her family the verge of delivering 21st century in- Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School, Bring the Samples to You! )/$0,1*26)/225,1*Flamingo’s Flooring moved to Moraga from Texas six struction. Teachers are integrating the Moraga School District and Cam- years ago; she’s been very involved in Common Core into their curriculum, polindo High School. 6KRZURRP:DVKLQJWRQ$YH6DQ/HDQGUR&$10% off any job.:D We Carry All Major Brands her kids’ education since her arrival. working collaboratively and using Kendzierki feels the most impor- She and her husband Charles have technology to make the courses come tant thing for the district is to continue four children, two have graduated alive for the students.” “our strong academic performance from Miramonte, one is currently a with the move to Common Core and senior there and one is a sophomore at new assessments. The district is well- Campolindo. She has a background in positioned to carry out this multi-year education, with a doctorate in curricu- process given our excellent teachers, “Let Us Light Up Your Life” lum from the University of Houston. staff, and administration, plus our in- Residential Commercial Industrial The family has been busy with a vari- valuably supportive community.” Serving Contra Costa since 1991 ety of sports teams during their tenure. She added, “However, I believe More than 35 years experience Her board service credits include the biggest issue facing the district is All Work Done by Owner Town Hall Theatre Company and Mi- to maintain fiscal stability through this Bonded & Insured ramonte High School, and she is a spe- process, given the state’s current level Lic.#C10-631523 cial education parent representative for of funding for education, the many Professional Installation of: the Moraga School District. changes with the move to the Local Ceiling Fans, Recessed & Track Lighting Kitchen or Bath Remodel When asked about the biggest is- Control Funding Formula, and the sig- Exterior/Security/Landscape Lighting Electrical Service Upgrade sues facing the AUHSD governing Photo Cathy Tyson nificant pension cost increases to Complete Home Wiring - Old & New Spa Installation board, she cited two main concerns. Robert Hockett is a retired school districts recently passed by the First is Common Core and how that is teacher who now lives in Walnut legislature. In addition to state fund- implemented. The second is the Creek. He was born and raised in ing, we must explore and be open to James Burkin budget, “Obviously there is a limited Lafayette and graduated from identifying additional funding oppor- www.BurkinElectric.net Sole Proprietor amount of money, I want to look care- Acalanes High School. For 33 years tunities and especially cost improve- fully at how we are spending it.” She he was a dedicated teacher of U.S. ments.” wants to continue to provide in the fu- History and American Government in Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.
From Front Page Film Festival Opens in Lamorinda This Weekend ... continued from page A1 The casts and crews of films fea- than main feature films. Once again Ullmann and master filmmaker Ing- age group, and have a pre-game And of course, a festival would tured in the festival include many the CAIFF will feature thought pro- mar Bergman. Told entirely from Ull- breakfast with President John F. not be a festival without shorts. Shorts people who are well-known in the voking documentaries, some of them mann’s point of view, this biopic of an Kennedy at the White House. His as- are often the first films of young film- film industry, says Zemrak. “The in- by our Lamorinda neighbors. extraordinary relationship is con- sassination changed those plans. makers who don’t have budgets for dependent films attract young profes- Lafayette’s Ellie Marks is the associ- structed as a collage of images and Team members attended Kennedy's full-length features. A short is an art sionals on their way up, as well as ate producer of “Mobilize,” which sounds from the timeless Ullmann- funeral instead before going on to win form in its own right. In a few min- well-recognized professionals who presents the science, the facts and the Bergman films, including behind-the- the championship. Zemrak said that utes, you have to tell a story, send a want to support stories they believe debate regarding the link between cell scenes footage, still photographs, some of the players, as well as the di- message, express a thought, and trans- in,” he explains. phone use and brain tumors. Also passages from Ullmann’s book rector, plan to come to the showing of mit a vision. It’s like a short poem, the The film “Cas & Dylan” illus- showing is “Breathe in Life,” the “Changing,” and Bergman's love let- the movie. quintessence of a new talent. CAIFF trates that idea perfectly, showcasing story of Laura Cryan Zellmer, a Mor- ters to Ullmann. “Citizen Hearst” tells the story of presents the shorts in different cate- seasoned actor Richard Dreyfuss with aga mom who was diagnosed as an In this election year, you will also William Randolph Hearst, his empire gories: Relationships, Drama, talented young actress Tatiana infant with Cystic Fibrosis. The film want to see “True Son,” the story of and his impact on today’s media – a Celebrity Shorts (celebrities often give Maslany. The two embark on an im- is her letter to her son. (Read the re- 22-year-old Michael Tubbs who de- fitting documentary for the Rheem a few days to young talent they believe probable and unexpected road trip lated article in our archive, cided in 2012 to run for the Stockton Theatre since rumor has it that Don- in), Comedy, and East Bay Showcase. across Canada that will make viewers http://www.lamorindaweekly.com/arc City Council to reinvent his home- ald Rheem, who was friends with Each showing presents five to eight feel better about humanity. The clos- hive/issue0813/pdf/Two-Extraordi- town, building his campaign from the Hearst, built this theater to rival his movies that are three minutes to a half- ing movie, “Putzel,” is a sweet Jewish nary-Lamorinda-Women-Direct-and- ground up. Also a beautiful docu- friend’s in Hearst Castle. “Starring hour long. comedy that hints at Woody Allen's Produce-Two-CAIFF-Films.pdf.) mentary is “Thrown for a Loss: The Adam West” will be a hit with any- Tickets and a complete program world. “Mom, Murder and Me” has Other documentaries include Story of the 1963 Mallards,” about one who loved him in "Batman." are available online at caiff.org. For action, mystery and is beautifully “Liv and Ingmar,” the love story en- the Pittsburg, Calif., Pop Warner foot- The eye-opening documentary fo- those shows that might be sold out, up filmed in San Francisco. compassing the 42-year and 12-film- ball team headed to play in the 1963 cuses on the cruelty of Hollywood to 20 tickets will be available in the But a film festival is about more long relationship between actress Liv national championships for the 12-14 and the actor’s real character. 'rush line' just before the start.
Wednesday, September 10, 2014 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B1 The Amazing Race, Lafayette-Style By Cathy Tyson
Contestants ready for adventure on the first LPIE Amazing Race. Photo Warren Lane
ith a can-do attitude, com- what was being requested and had to Wfortable sneakers, smart- repeat portions of a challenge or take phones and a list of supplies that a time penalty. included water, a first aid kit, a foot- Teams with names like “What Saint Mary’s College Museum of Art ball and a variety of crazy items just Was I Thinking?” and “Let’s Get it to throw off participants, 32 brave Done” paid to play with all the pro- Three New Exhibitions souls, eight teams of four people each, ceeds benefitting LPIE. Teams that st got started on the Amazing Race, a were completely stuck could phone Now through September 21 Accredited by the American fundraiser for the Lafayette Partners an organizer who would sell them a Association of Museums and Galleries in Education (LPIE). As contestants clue for an additional $50 donation to were poised and ready to run, the race LPIE. By Invitation Only: The Native American officially began with a welcome and The Amazing Race fundraiser Revealing the Landscape Collection of review of specific instructions by event started out four years ago at Roger Epperson Mark Gundacker at the Acalanes Springhill Elementary School, grow- 80 works of art, High School flag pole. What followed ing in popularity, and this year spread- including was a chaotic search for the first clue, ing to include all Lafayette schools. paintings, leading participants on a mad dash to Organizers spent months planning, drawings, find four T-shirts of the same color to carefully wording instructions and photography and designate their team. However, there rustling up support from generous sculpture, by 29 were a total of 32 shirts spread out merchants. LPIE is run by parent vol- artists representing an impressive randomly and hidden all over the unteers to expand educational oppor- Edward S. variety and range Acalanes High School football sta- tunities for students from kindergarten Curtis, of landscape. Jack Mendenhall, Woman in White Hat, Waikiki, 2014, Bear Bull – dium – a not so subtle heads-up about through senior year at Acalanes. The oil on canvas, 36 x 48 inches, Courtesy of Bernarducci Blackfoot, the remainder of the event. educational foundation consistently Meisel Gallery, NYC and the Artist 1926, photogravure The premise of both the TV show supports and enriches the education on Japanese and the fundraiser is for teams to race of kids in Lafayette with funds going vellum, 15 x 11 inches, around the world, or in this case to science, math, music, art, technol- Collection of Lafayette, and complete unusual ogy, foreign language and more. Roger Epperson tasks; when each task is completed, Some residents may be more familiar Over 30 works including photography, teams get their next clue and so on to with the group’s prior name, LASF or etchings, drawings and paintings by esteemed the finish line. Thanks to the deep Lafayette Art and Science Foundation artists Edward S. Curtis, Maynard Dixon, Roi pockets of network television – win- which changed in 2010 to LPIE. Partridge and more. Willard Dixon, The Avenues, 2014, oil on canvas, 27 x 54 inches, Courtesy the Artist ners crossing the line first on TV re- Once T-shirts were found, com- ceive $1 million. In Lafayette, petitors had to complete a three- The Collector’s Eye: winners – spoiler alert, mentioned at legged style walk (actually Early California Landscapes and Still Lifes the end of this story – get to “enjoy five-legged walk) that linked all four the glory of it all,” says one of the or- team members around the track, with Selections from three major Bay Area art Samuel Marsden ganizers, Suzy Pak, and of course the T-shirts tied around ankles – defi- Brooks, Armin collections on view. Sacramento Hansen, bragging rights. nitely a learning curve there – then on Work includes early River Fish, Return to Gundacker spelled out the infor- to kick field goals, apparently a job 1872, oil on Ship, oil on California landscapes canvas 24 x 29 canvas, 7 x 8 mation teams received in each enve- many middle-aged parents weren’t and still lifes by Armin inches, Promised 3/4 inches. lope, route information, detours the familiar with. At this point, team teal Hansen, William gift from the Collection of team had to participate in and road T-shirt was off to an early lead. James and John and Coulter and Samuel Charlene Harvey Marilyn blocks which are only done by one In what turned out to be a very Marsden Brooks. Collection Thurau team member. Conveniently there full afternoon, teams had tasks all were four road blocks, one per team over town; one task cleverly had them Public Hours: Wed – Sun, 11 am-4:30 pm. Museum Admission: Adults $5; member. Similar to the television look for a message somewhere on Members and K-12 graders Free; Parking Free show, despite specific instructions, Golden Gate Way. Phone: 925-631-4379 Website: stmarys-ca.edu/museum some folks neglected to fully grasp ... continued on page B10
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