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Volume 02; Issue 22 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Let’s Dance at Rheem! By Sophie Braccini Just Like Old Times: this week Big Band Will Overshadow Silver Screen for an Evening ome of us remember, some of us don’t, Veteran’s Hall for the last three years,” says a large dancing floor, we will remove more Homegrown Turre and some of us recall fondly that which Jay Lifson of the Lafayette Chamber of Com- seats and add tables; it will be pretty nice.” to Play at SMC Swe never lived. The worst of times can merce. “We wanted to try something different Maurice “Mo” Levich, Director of The also be the best of times - put on hold the and get Lamorinda more involved.” Big Band of Rossmoor and one of the more trying events of the 30’s and 40’s and Enter the art deco Rheem Theatre, which founders of Generations in Jazz, is looking you have a generation’s good old days, where was built in 1955. One of the last “classic” forward to the performance. “As usual, we the finest weekend evening’s entertainment theaters built in the Bay Area, the Rheem will be featuring students from Campolindo, was to be found where ever the Big Band was hosted live Big Bands and dances in years Stanley and Acalanes,” he says. “We always swingin’. And on Friday, January 23, Mor- gone by. “We approached the Rheem Theatre enjoy playing at a community event where all Page 7 aga’s Rheem Theatre is the place to be; at this and they were very interested,” explained Lif- generations meet.” winter’s Big Band Ballroom Dance, featuring son. The Big Band of Rossmoor is an ener- the Big Band of Rossmoor, all of Lamorinda “It’s a perfect venue for this event,” says getic Stage Big Band (a Stage band incorpo- is invited to come dancing! Theatre co-owner Tom Peterson. “When we rates strings, clarinets and flutes to a classic Presented by the Generations in Jazz rented the facility to the California Academy Big Band) and young musicians are invited to Foundation, the Big Band Dance has tradi- for Performing Arts for their dance perform- share the stage with veteran professionals. 1000 tionally been largely a Lafayette and Ross- ance I saw how well the staging works. For a moor event. “We have held the dance at the Big Band it will be perfect. We already have ... continued on page 9 Pages Printed Advertising Page 11 Helping You Achieve Your Goals...Lamorinda and Beyond. Peter Hattersley Paying for CALL US --To get a free property analysis 925.708.9515 --To create a marketing plan for the sale of your home Darlene Hattersley College in --To help you plan all your real estate goals 925.360.9588 Hard VISIT--www.TheHattersleys.com for more information We are your neighbors and friends, and in 2009, let us also be your Realtors. RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE Economic Times Women’s Basketball Counts By Robin Schoettler Fox Page 13 Town News 2,3,4 Committee Reports on Finance 2 Moraga Retail Update 3 Committees + Commissions = Citizens 4 Hope for Deaf Children 5 Letters to the Editor 6 Route 106 Spared, sort of 6 A Sweet Spot Closes 7 Calendar 8 Photo Jordan Fong NEW Lamorinda Service Directory 8 Interest in women’s collegiate basketball is up, but attendance remains a challenge nationwide. Here, the Lady Gaels prepare to play the Cal Bears on December 29th in the Haas Pavilion, which that night had fan-seats to spare. Lamorinda Seniors 9 ake your ticket count for Saint Mary’s Col- HOW TO CONTACT US 10 Mlege on January 24. Mailed to 24,600 homes and businesses in Lamorinda. Watch the Lady Gaels battle defending West Lamorinda Real Estate 10 return to: Lamorinda Weekly • P.O. Box 6133 • Moraga, CA 94570 PRSRT STD Business 11 Coast Conference (WCC) champions, San Diego, and U.S.POSTAGE Schools 12,13 help SMC win this season’s National Collegiate Ath- PAID In the Back Yard 14,15 letic Association’s (NCAA) Pack the House atten- AD-VANTAGE dance challenge. Tip off for what SMC calls Pack the Dining 16 Pavilion is 2pm. Making 2nd Weddings Work 17 Pack the House is the NCAA’s second-year na- Classified 18 tional effort to grow attendance for women’s basket- Sports 18,19 ball. Shop Orinda 20 ... continued on page 19 Page: 2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009 Lamorinda Community Calendar, Notes, News Lafayette Calendar City Council 7pm "Thank you for allowing me to help you sell or purchase your Community Center, Manzanita Room 500 St Mary’s Road Lafayette home this past year. As a result of your confidence and Monday, January 12 trust, I was able to be the #1 Realtor in Lafayette in 2008. (Source: Trend Graphix) Planning Comm. 7pm I don't have a crystal ball, but am knee deep in this market Community Center, Manzanita Room 500 St Mary’s Road and able to learn and adjust with each transaction. Thursday, January 8 (925) 339-1918 I will continue to strive to exceed your needs in 2009! Design Review 7pm [email protected] Call me - I’m here! Community Center, Manzanita Room DanaGreenTeam.com 500 St Mary’s Road Tuesday, January 13 Lafayette Finance Review Finance Committee to Present Report Committee Report 7pm By Cathy Tyson Community Center, Manzanita Room n an effort to have the most last year’s audits, analyzed the and property tax – can be seri- road repair to reducing pay- mendation. Thirdly, reclassify 500 St Mary’s Road efficient budget possible effect of the Redevelopment ously and adversely affected roll. the Youth Diversion officer as Tuesday, January 13 I and to address long term fi- Agency on finances and re- by downturns in the econ- On the whole they found, a non-sworn position. The City Council will hold a nancial problems, the City viewed major capital projects. omy,” according to the report. “The City has generally done The balance of the rec- public workshop to review the Council appointed a dream The City Council scheduled a The six member commit- a very good job of identifying ommendations include: Trans- work and recommendations of team of experienced private public Workshop to discuss tee went through the budget and acting upon opportunities fer the current balance in the the committee sector business and finance the report in detail with the Fi- from soup to nuts looking for to manage the taxpayer’s Parking Fund to pavement Town of Lafayette: volunteers to examine the nance Review Committee on ways to reduce expenditures money with prudence and management program; Fund http://www.ci.lafayette.ca.us City’s budget and come up January 13 at the Lafayette and enhance revenue. In leveraging outside sources of future downtown maintenance Chamber of Commerce: with recommendations to im- Community Center. doing so they, “assessed both revenue.” with assessment districts; In- http://www.lafayettechamber.org prove effectiveness. With four Currently Lafayette has the financial impact and the Bottom line, the Final crease revenue using one or failed tax measures and poten- an $18M unfunded backlog of risk to the community. This Report had six specific recom- more of these options: prop- tially declining future revenue, road repairs and the lowest po- analysis led to the options mendations. The first is to ac- erty transfer tax, increase sales the report could not have come lice staffing in Contra Costa falling into one of four quad- quire what will soon be the old tax, business license fee. at a better time. County. In addition, there’s a rants,” ranging from Low Fi- library site for city offices. The City Council Fi- Starting in April the $250,000 annual shortfall in nancial Impact / Low Risk to Right now the city is renting nance Review Workshop will Committee reviewed the re- revenue for downtown mainte- High Financial Impact / High office space at Desco Plaza. be held on January 13 at the Lafayette Police Blotter will be sults of the 1992 report by a nance. Looking forward, fu- Risk. Everything was on the Launching a study to evaluate Lafayette Community Center. back next time. prior Finance Review Com- ture projections are not very table from eliminating the an- opportunities for a more cost To read the report in full go to mittee, interviewed city-wide encouraging, “two of the pri- nual holiday party to diverting effective Police Services struc- www.lovelafayette.org. department heads, looked at mary revenue sources - sales the Parking Fund balance to ture is their second recom- Wide Range of Options for Fitness at Lafayette Rec By Cathy Tyson ing calories while dancing? No experience necessary. It’s not every day that you get to let out your inner Latina in Lafayette. Addressing the scale di- rectly is, What Works Weight Management, described in the class catalogue as, “Are you one of those people who say in frustration, "I know HOW to lose weight, I just can't seem to DO it?" Do you long to fit into the beautiful now too- small clothes in your closet? In this valuable four-week class you will learn tools that really work to help you lose weight in relation to your personal lifestyle, schedule and obsta- cles.” With a total of 199 Many options at the Lafayette Rec Center on St. Mary’s Road Photos provided classes, the breadth of offer- ants getting a little tight? cize to Weight Training for ring to the Try Lafayette First has been teaching for thirty exercise class at the Commu- ings is unbeatable and obvi- PMaybe they didn’t shrink Women to Gentle Yoga for campaign. “It’s convenient, years, with Lafayette Rec nity Center. ously too numerous to name in the dryer. For those of us seniors, even Belly Dancing, saving gas, saving money and since 1986. She’s had a range Looking for something a here. Here are just a few: pi- who made a New Year’s reso- there is something for every- most of the instructors are of students – from St. Mary’s little different? Zumba class is lates, tennis, roller hockey lution to get healthier and/or one right in town. from Lamorinda.” College students to an 80- a new cardio workout set to even “Quick and healthy slimmer, Lafayette Recreation “It just makes sense,” She’s not kidding, with year-old. With thirteen differ- Latin music that is entertaining meals from Costco and Trader Programs are just what the said Jennifer Russell, Parks reasonable prices and classes ent classes scheduled every with easy to follow instruc- Joe’s.” For more information, doctor ordered. From Jazzer- and Recreation Director refer- starting in January, this could week, this is the most popular tions. How fun is that, burn- go to www.lafayetterec.org. be just the opportunity to actu- ally keep at least one new Judy’s Nail Salon years resolution. WHERE SERVICE AND QUALITY MATTER Thank you Lamorinda for your Business! Jazzercise instructor 6th Year Anniversary Special Nancy Goldner comments that Manicure $8 Pedicure $20 her class is, “fun, extremely effective and covers every- Manicure & Pedicure $25 thing in sixty minutes. It’s Full Set (acrylic) $20 Fill in $15 friendly, non-competitive and lends itself to a wide range of Nails by Danny Waxing 10% off ages and abilities.” Goldner 625 Moraga Rd, Moraga • (925) 377-0990 or 0991 CARPET • HARDWOOD • TILE • LAMINATE • VINYL Tues – Sat: 10am -7pm • Sun: 10am-6pm Diablo Flooring, Inc. is here to bring the best possible pricing with the most beautiful and complete installation to the Bay Area. We are a small store which lets us give you the attention needed for a more professional experience. We cater to residential& commercial customers, designers, contractors, and developers. FREE ESTIMATES DIABLO FLOORING, INC. 925-426-RUGS (7847)

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM OR WWW.DIABLOFLOORING.COM License #898787 • Bonded • Insured up to $2 Million Big Band Ball Room Dance Family Owned Since 1974 Over 34 years of Quality Service you can Trust Oil & Filter Special •Oil, Filter & Lube Service •Up to 5 Quarts of Oil •22 Point Safety Inspection •Antifreeze & Fluids Check •Tire Rotation as Needed •Inspect Belts & Hoses •Visual Brake Inspection • Oil and Filter Service • Belts and Hoses • Clutches •Test Battery & Charging System • Brakes • Air Conditioning • Axles with The Rossmoor Big Band •Consultation on Problems With Your Vehicle • Tune-Ups R12, R134 • Fuel Injection • 4-Wheel Alignment • Mufflers Service Friday, January 23, at the Art Deco Rheem Theatre in Moraga. $29.95 • Batteries • Timing Belts • 30/60/90k • Tires • Exhaust Systems Maintenance Doors open at 6:30 pm and the dance runs from 7:00pm through 10:00pm. Reg. $79.95, you save $50. • Shocks and Struts • Catalytic Converters • We accept most Cartridge filters & diesel extra. Hazardous Waste Fee $3 • Radiators • Starters extended warranties $ • Water Pumps • Alternators • Free Shuttle Tickets 10 per person 925-283-0323 available at the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, Rheem Theatre in Moraga 3329 Mount Diablo Blvd • Lafayette and Orinda Chamber of Commerce. Monday-Friday 8-5 • Closed Saturday and Sunday Call 284-7404 for reservations www.lafayettechamber.org www.gregsautomotiveandmuffler.com Wednesday, January 7, 2009 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 3 Lamorinda Community Calendar, Notes, News Moraga Shop locally whenever you Calendar Retail in Moraga: Fighting to Stay Alive can. City Council 7:30pm By Sophie Braccini Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School doing. “We want to thank the com- the season. “We’ll see what hap- Only your 1010 Camino Pablo munity for its support,” he says, “if pens,” he said, “Jim (his partner) and support of our Wednesday, January 14 our numbers are lower in December I know our business and we will it is by less than 1%. For us, there offer great entertainment to Lamor- local Planning Comm. 7:30pm hasn’t been a recession.” inda in 2009.” Like all the busi- Hacienda, La Sala Room Tom Peterson of the Rheem nesses, he plans to try to keep businesses will 2100 Donald Drive Theatre was a bit disappointed by Moraga fun and alive. keep them open! Tuesday, January 20 Design Review 7:30pm Hacienda, La Sala Room Happy New Year! 2100 Donald Drive Monday, January 12 86 Sanders R anch Rd., Park & Rec 7:30pm Mor aga Hacienda, Mosaic Room Fabulous resort-like back yard featured on the 2100 Donald Drive Tuesday, January 20 2008 Lamorinda Garden Tour. Over 3400 sqft, 5 Liaison 8:00am Andrea Lucacher carries out a burrito from Mucho Wraps Photo Sophie Braccini Br, 3.5 Ba, on a .75 acre lot. Completely updated Fire Station with high end finishes & heated floors. he holiday season has come season results were 20% less than 1280 Moraga Way $1,950,000 Tand gone. Moraga’s retail last year.” For 2008 she recorded a Friday, January 9 business owners are checking their drop of 60% in her sales. www.86SandersR anchRd.com Town of Moraga online: cash registers to see if the seasonal Arlene Kohn, owner of King http://www.ci.moraga.ca.us shopping was enough to compen- Florist, is not doing too well either. 359 Deerfield Dr., Moraga sate for an otherwise morose 2008. “We were down about 40% in Oc- The results? Businesses that offered tober,” she said, “in December we Wonderful creekside rancher! Expanded and essentials for seasonal celebrating made about 15% less than last year.” remodeled, 2126 Sqft, 4 Br, 3.5 Ba with pool, did well, while those whose wares She has had to lay off two part-time and lawns. Approved plans for further 440 sqft are perceived as being luxuries or employees and works six days a addition. Walk to outstanding K-8 schools. dispensable continue to have a week herself. Neither Meily nor $1,150,000 harder time. Kohn have a very positive outlook Minor drinking, 12/31/08 Offi- www.359DeerfieldDr.com cers went to Camino Pablo At the UPS store, Javier Gal- on 2009. “We had a similar period School on a report of kids party- don noticed that people waited until ten years ago and we went through the last minute to send their pack- it, we will do it again,” says Meily; ing loudly. A 17-year-old, who 100 Whitethorne Dr., police recognized from other en- ages, but they finally did. “We had to boost her numbers she’s planning a good year,” he says, “and we are a huge sale on all her gifts items. Mor aga counters, was contacted. When confident for the new year.” Nail salons are in the same asked if he had been drinking, he Spacious and updated home on a cul-de-sac. Hallmark in the Moraga Cen- boat. Hanna Nails reports a slow replied in the negative. Our fre- Walking dist. to K-8 schools. 3054 sqft, 4 Br, ter had a great December as well. season while Karen Binh at Dynasty quent flyer was also asked if he 2.5 Ba, plus great office on a large level .42 acre Liz White, the store manager, ex- Nails admitted that the season was had any contraband with him, he plains, “We had a ginger bread okay, but not super compared to pre- lot. Open floor plan with large kitchen. admitted to having a can of beer house that was very popular,” she vious years. “This is a New Year $1,365,000 in his backpack. Then he ‘fessed says, “as well as many stocking and what better way to be happier www.100WhitethorneDr.com up that he actually had been stuffers such as the individual tissue than by getting a pedicure/mani- drinking. The young man was pack with a Christmas theme.” cure,” said the perky storeowner. cited for ‘minor in possession of For the same reason, The To fight the tough times some Bollinger Canyon R anch, alcohol.’ His parents were con- Beauty Source reports a good holi- are turning to the community in cre- Mor aga tacted and the cops were kind day season. “Business was as good ative ways. Patrick Vahey of Pen- Price just reduced by half! Extraordinary 269 enough to give him a lift home. as ever,” says Julia Kubik, “we had nini’s proposed an innovative acre ranch historically used for cattle grazing. a rush just before Christmas and sold campaign to the Moraga Education Attempted commercial bur- a lot of stocking stuffers.” She be- Foundation (MEF). 3 parcels, Lot line adj possible to suit. glary, 12/30/08 Officers re- lieves that people in Moraga under- “I give a lot to all the groups in Call for pricing! sponded to an alarm from stand the Shop Moraga First concept town,” says Vahey, “but I do not al- www.BollingerCanyonRd.com Longs Drugs, and during an ex- and she keeps a positive outlook for ways know what the return is on Extraordinary Ranch! terior check discovered some- 2009. these donations.” So he offered one had forced open a door. Susan Marconi from Across MEF 10% of all sales made between Suspect(s) entered the building the Way shares Kubik’s opinion. now and the end of the school year The Market has Changed... and forced open two interior “The holiday season was very good as long as patrons sign “MEF” on Call us for a complimentary staging and market evaluation! doors to enter the pharmacy. for us, we offered very serious dis- their bills. “I will have special days Subject(s) left before officers counts to our customers and they ap- as well with the other groups, so we ORINDA • MORAGA • LAFAYETTE arrived at just after midnight. It preciated it.” She is happy that a can support each other.” Vahey re- couldn’t be determined if any good December has helped her to ports an even year for Pennini’s, but drugs were taken at this time. meet her sales goal. She notes his higher-end restaurant, Michael’s, ELENA HOOD though that the goals for this year has shown some decline. REAL ESTATE GROUP Pre-New Year’s bash, 12/28/08 had been lowered from last year and That same phenomenon is se- (925)254-3030 www.Orinda.com At 5:45 in the morning an anony- that her good results came at the ex- riously affecting other town fa- mous citizen reported a vehicle pense of her profit margin. "We will vorites, such as Amoroma. “The collision on Scofield Drive. have to stay very creative to ride out holiday season was not that good,” Upon arrival officers noted a these difficult times," she adds, "We said Amoroma co-owner Michele are entering uncharted territory." Lavecchia, “we were down 10 to black Toyota Avalon crashed into “Being involved in this church has given me Vivien Hart at the Moraga Art 15% down from last year, which a utility pole - both the driver and the opportunity to use my gifts to serve God Gallery reported solid sales during was much better than the very bad passenger airbags deployed, but the holidays as well and so did Jorge October and November.” Lavecchia and others. The teaching is excellent, and occupants were mysteriously not Quintero, owner of the Rheem Pet is concerned that there won’t be any helps bring me closer to God.” there. The driver was eventually Shoppe. “We sold out of all our improvement for months; in the -Marcia Austin, Member located in Orinda and admitted to small animals,” he says, “on the meantime, he hasn’t touch his prices the crash. Why would they flee other hand, people didn’t buy as at all, “not to scare customers the scene? many gifts for their pets as they usu- away!” ally do.” Overall his December fig- Roos Pal at Terzetto Café Christmas Eve car burglary, ures were the same as last year, but doesn’t want to raise her prices ei- 12/24/08 Looking for a pre- he anticipates a soft beginning for ther. The hard-working woman has Willow Spring Church holiday workout, a woman 2009. seen a decline in the number of parked and locked her car at the Businesses offering non-es- evening diners, about 30%, but an Voted “Best Place to Worship” in Moraga new 24-Hour Fitness on Rheem sential goods are suffering more. increase at lunch and breakfast. -The U.S. Local Business Association Boulevard at 8:30 in the morn- Two purveyors of flowers, St “Our New Year’s Eve dinner was ing. When she returned at 9:30, Mary’s Flowers and Gifts and King very successful,” she said, “it was the passenger side window was Florist and Gifts, both had a difficult our first time and we will certainly Willow Spring Church smashed and her black suede 2008 and a disappointing holiday do it again.” Pal is not one to give 1675-1689 School Street Upcoming Sunday Mornings At WSC jacket and leather purse were season. “These are luxury item,” ex- up anyway. She is always bustling Moraga, CA 94556 Jan 11: “How To Have Your Best Year Ever!” (Conclusion) missing. Total estimated loss plains St Mary’s Flowers owner with new ideas and keeps a very Jan 18: “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Christians, Part 1” www.willowspringchurch.org $1,000. Sandra Meily, “we did okay in terms positive outlook on 2009. “It is Jan 25: “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Christians, Part 2” of Christmas centerpieces but our going to be a very good year,” she (925) 376-3550 Feb 1: “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Christians, Part 3” says, “we will develop new products Sunday Service Times: MORAGA such as our catering that worked so Prayer...... 8:00am well over the holidays, or the Art and Traditional...... 9:00am PARKS & RECREATION Wine evenings that we will sched- 925-888-7045 • www.moraga.ca.us ule monthly.” Contemporary...... 10:30am “God loves us regardless of performance, Chain stores like Tuesday Weekly Activities Include: and yet, we have been created - River Rock Casino Trip, $25, 1/13 Morning and Home Goods could Wednesday: not merely to be...but to become.” - Gymnastics – ages 1.5 – 3, starting 1/7 not comment because only their dis- Community Bible Study....10am -Pastor Brad, GodThoughts, Vol.1, p.283* - New Year’s resolution? Moraga Treeline Triathlon 4/25 tant headquarters know the num- REVERB (youth)...... 7pm - Dinner Dances at the Hacienda bers. Longs Manager Mike Friday Night: Dad/Daughter (2/20) & Mom/Son (3/20) Lawrence is more independent and - New classes starting NOW for all ages and interests he knows how his two stores are BLAST! Kids Club...... 6pm Saturday Night: Catalyst(Young Adults)..7:30pm The Right Lender to KnowTM “Willow Spring has changed my life by Puzzled by news of lower interest rates when Willow Spring Church is an allowing me to mortgages rates are increasing? evangelical, non-denominational, belong to a caring Bible-Driven church with a vision to: community.” Want to know more? Call me. “Work with God to build effective people who are inspired to -Mark Punzal, 925-627-7109 excellence and committed to others.” Regular Attender

www.rpm-mortgage.com/gsteele *Willow Spring Church is the home of the Internationally recognized “GodThoughts” Ministry serving 003810 Gordon Steele CA Dept. of Real Estate - real estate broker license # 01201643 Moraga more than 10,000 people daily in over 100 countries around the world. Page: 4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009 Lamorinda Community Calendar, Notes, News Orinda Calendar Helping You Achieve Your Goals ... Lamorinda and Beyond. City Council 7pm RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE Auditorium, Orinda Library ORINDA WALNUT CREEK 26 Orinda Way Tuesday, January 20 Prestigious 24 Acre Voted Walnut Creek's Sleepy Hollow Area Best Multi-Family Planning Comm. 7pm Estate and 5 Development, 2008! Auditorium, Orinda Library Bedroom, 5.5 Bath Classic Luxury 26 Orinda Way Luxury Home Condos from Tuesday, January 13 Peter & Darlene Hattersley Shown by $459,000 in a 925.360.9588 Appointment, High-tech, Security Price Upon Request. Building Close to Planning Process 925.708.9515 Many Pics/Info on Town, on the Iron TheHattersleys.com Our Website. Horse Trail. Review Task Force Mary H. Smith, Public Workshops Orinda Recruits for D.D.S. Saturday, January 10, • Committee and Commission Vacancies Cecelia Thomas, 2009, 9:00am to noon D.D.S. Library Auditorium, 26 By Andrea A. Firth • 925.254.0824 Orinda Way and Wednesday, January 21, General dentistry done with a cosmetic emphasis to improve and enhance natural looking smiles. 2009, 7pm to 9pm Adults, Children, Nitrous Oxide, Implant Dentistry, Cosmetic Sarge Littlehale Dentistry, Invisalign Certified • Complimentary Consultations Community Room, Orinda City Hall 22 Orinda Way tions and means of processing the practice of involving com- residential and commercial munity members in local gov- plans and proposals. Armed ernment, according to Keeter. Town of Orinda: with that information, and with The involvement not only ed- http://www.ci.orinda.ca.us some first hand experience, the ucates residents in the City's members very methodically functions and challenges, but Chamber of Commerce: and intensely developed rec- also provides the City with dif- http://www.orindachamber.org ommendations for improve- ferent perspectives. “As a com- • local businesses ment,” explains Keeter. “We mittee or commission member, • upcomming events are now at a point in time a resident is taken on as a part- where the PPRTF is vetting the ner with the City,” says Sever- recommendations through a son. “The City values their public workshop process be- expertise and input. It’s a col- fore submitting the final report laborative process.” Senior booze burglar, 12/29/08 A to the Planning Commission Applications for the cur- 64-year-old Orinda resident tried and the City Council. This type rent committee and commis- to shoplift a 1.75 liter bottle of JB Orinda residents at a Planning Process Review meeting Photo Andrea A. Firth of thorough analysis by the sion openings in Orinda are Scotch from Longs Drugs on Mor- PPRTF, although it involved an available at the City website ith the start of the new a wonderful gift of time and select, couch or ignore any of aga Way in the middle of the after- immense amount of staff time, (www.cityoforinda.org) and noon. When confronted by store Wyear, Orinda’s City expertise that the residents give the ideas that came forward. supplemented the City's ability further information can be ob- personnel, she took bottle out of Council will embark upon the to the City. Many of the resi- We did not eliminate anything, and resources to conduct such tained from the City Clerk’s her purse and fled toward Camino annual recruitment process to dent volunteers have back- and it evolved into the nine- a study,” she adds. office (email: molsen@city- Pablo. At a traffic stop not far from fill vacancies on the various grounds in finance (including point plan that was presented. The process of including oforinda.org; phone 253-4221). the store, police held an in-field City Committees and Commis- budgeting and investing), plan- It was an amazing process,” resident volunteers aligns with line up, where the older female sions that are staffed by volun- ning, engineering, real estate, she adds. suspect was positively identified – teer residents. Orinda has art, architecture, and the list The work of the Planning perhaps it was her red sweater, approximately eighty commu- goes on. Were it not for many Process Review Task Force Residential and gray hair and glasses? Or was it nity volunteers who serve as of these individuals, the City (PPRTF) is another prime ex- Restoration because the store manager recog- members on the fifteen active would need to hire and pay for ample of resident volunteers nized her from a prior theft caught committees and commissions the expertise,” she adds. tackling some tough issues and Painting Services on surveillance camera where she and couple of task forces that Severson concurs, “As a then working through the pub- Meticulous attention to detail absconded with two bottles of are winding down. “The resi- small City with a small budget, lic review process. “The 37 years of satisfied customers Gran Marnier? dents of Orinda feel commu- we could not afford to pay for PPRTF members immersed nity participation is the level of expertise and ad- themselves into learning and David Collins, Orinda D.U.I., 12/27/08 A suspect col- important—an essential ele- vice that we receive from the understanding the Planning lided with a parked car on Orchard ment to a strong and open gov- members of our committees, Department's current opera- 925-254-6882 Road at 2:30 in the morning. erning process. People here are commissions, and task forces. Bumper car boy smelled like alco- very capable and very gener- The commitment to commu- hol, had slurred speech and an un- ous with their time, and the nity volunteerism is one of Become Healthy Once and for All steady gait - an intoxication City greatly benefits from Orinda’s greatest strengths.” trifecta. The subject’s car had five this,” says Mayor Sue Sever- The work of many of • Personal Plans • Weight Loss • Healthy Aging pounds of illegal fireworks and ex- son. these committees, commis- plosives in the trunk. The committees and sions, and task forces requires commissions that function in a considerable investment of Bad check, 12/26/08 A suspect Orinda serve in a variety of ad- time and energy, and the issues walked into the Bank of American FREE on Orinda Way and wanted to cash visory roles including finance, that they are asked to tackle are a check. A quick thinking teller de- planning, public safety, com- not without the potential for 10 Minute termined the check was fake and munity services and aesthetics. controversy. “The individuals 360-2729 the signature forged. The suspect In many ways the City’s vari- who join the committees take Consultation was arrested and taken to Martinez ous committees and commis- their appointments and the 89 Davis Rd. #180, Orinda for processing. Note to Santa – sions are an extension of city goals of their committees seri- this guy is naughty, will some operations. While they coordi- ously,” states Severson. As the quality time in jail make him nate with the City Council and Council representative on the nicer? Staff, they conduct their re- recently disbanded Revenue views independently, and their Enhancement Task Force, she Robbery foiled, 12/24/08 An Oak- role is typically to advise, not worked with the group to dis- land resident entered a Scenic decide. till the voluminous amount of Drive driveway in the middle of “There is a great deal of information generated into a the night, but was confronted by Staff and Council effort and nine-point plan for the public residents, so he left. Homeowners time that goes into supporting to review, which faced some wisely called the cops who found our various committees,” notes criticism from members of the the suspect’s vehicle three blocks City Manager Janet Keeter. Moraga Orinda Fire District. from the driveway in question. Of- “However, given the limited “Our task was to look at all the ficers found, gasp! burglary tools budget that the City has to op- options,” explains Severson. in his car. Subject was arrested for erate and provide services, it is “”The task force did not pre- possession of burglary tools. 1031 Exchanges...

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925.376.1004 Securities offered through OMNI Brockerage, Inc. • Member FINRA/SiPC Wednesday, January 7, 2009 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 5 • Life in LAMORINDA • Has Our Country Finally Become Colorblind? A Commonwealth Club Presentation By Sophie Braccini s this the Season for change? We combine History at the University of Cali- filed in Newsweek's 2006 edition of the president-elect of the National creative ideas with budget-friendly solutions I fornia, Berkeley (UCB). “Racism is the "Giving Back Awards," having Conference of Black Political Sci- to restyle the rooms you live and work in. very much a part of our country, the been nominated by one of his for- entists. He received his Ph.D. from Paint Color Consultation: I can show you election is an important step but we mer students. He has received two the University of Southern Califor- the tricks to the perfect color in your room can’t know yet if the symbolic im- distinguished teaching awards. nia. His dissertation was on con- call: Shannon Boehme at (925) 385-0293, Lafayette pact of the election will be strong Litwack was also presented with temporary Black politics and enough; we still have a long way to the Golden Apple Award for Out- political involvement as reflected in go.” Litwack believes that some- standing Teaching in 2007 by the the Million Man March, in which thing a black preacher in the 70’s Associated Students of the Univer- he personally participated. Most re- World Class Spa Experience said about the impact of the civil sity of California. cently, Professor Taylor contributed Jacuzzi Sauna Steam Room Rainforest Shower right movement is still valid: Richard Thompson Ford, the a chapter to Barbara McGraw and Leon Litwack Photo provided ‘Everything has changed and noth- George E. Osborne Professor of Jo Renee Formicola's Taking Reli- ing has changed,’ “and that’s where Law at Stanford Law School, will gious Pluralism Seriously (Baylor, s our nation prepares to inau- Voted Best Manicure! we are now,” adds Litwack. present with Litwack. An expert on 2005). He has also written a chapter by San Jose Mercury News, Metro, San Francisco Magazine Agurate its first African-Amer- Litwack is the 1980 winner of civil rights and anti-discrimination for the book, Religious Leaders and ican President, some Americans the Pulitzer Prize for history for his law, Richard Thompson Ford has Faith-Based Politics (2002), and wonder if our country can truly be- book “Been in the Storm So Long: distinguished himself as an insight- contributed an essay to the 2002 Holidays Massage Special come colorblind. At its core, the The Aftermath of Slavery.” He re- ful voice and compelling writer on Report on Violence in San Fran- story of America is the constant re- 50min Swedish or Deep Tissue tired from UCB at the end of the questions of race and multicultural- cisco, published by the San Fran- Purchase of Two Massages required defining of the ideas most central to spring 2007 semester. From 1964 to ism. His work has focused on the cisco Human Rights Commission, 2nd massage must be used within 30 days the Constitution: Liberty, freedom $45 Both massages must be used by the same person 2007, Litwack taught more than social and legal conflicts surround- and focused in particular on the See stores for other terms & conditions and equality. How will Obama’s 30,000 at UCB. For much of that ing claims of discrimination, on the causes and impact of violence on victory shape American history? time, he taught the introductory causes and effects of racial segre- communities of color. Taylor has How far have we come as a result course in post-Civil War American gation, and on the use of territorial served as a Task Force member for Fall Pedicure Special of this past election, and how much History, and was the Alexander F. boundaries as instruments of social the "Slavery Disclosure Ordi- Spa Pedicure + farther do we still need to go? Three and May T. Morrison Professor of regulation. His book “THE nance," sponsored by San Fran- Bay Area professors will debate American History. In addition to the RACE CARD: How Bluffing cisco County and City Supervisor Free Sugar Scrub Exfoliation + these questions on Thursday, Janu- Pulitzer Prize in History, he has re- About Bias Makes Race Rela- Sophie Maxwell. He is working on $25 Free Callus Treatment ary 15, at the Veterans Hall, 3780 ceived many honors in recognition tions Worse,” a sharp, tightly ar- a book titled "Sons of Thunder: Mount Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette. of his distinguished and path-break- gued and delightfully contentious Malcolm X, Louis Farrakhan & Gift Card Available. Party is welcome. The event is titled: Problems with ing scholarship, including the Fran- work, Richard Thompson Ford The Haunting of America." Progress: a Historical Perspective Thousands Retail / Boutique Products cis Parkman Prize, the American vivisected every sacred cow in The California Historical So- Clothings, Shoes, Fashion Jewelleries, Bags, Skincare, ... on the Presidency. Book Award, and election to the “post-racist” America. ciety co-organized the evening. “I don’t think our country has presidency of the Organization of James Taylor, Associate Pro- Tickets are $12 for members, $18 3589 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette. CA evolved enough,” says Leon American Historians. Litwack has fessor of Politics at the University for non-members, $7 for students. 925-299-8877 Litwack, Pulitzer Prize Winner and also been an enormously popular of San Francisco, will be the third For tickets, visit commonwealth- Open Daily 10am-7pm Professor Emeritus of American and influential teacher. He was pro- participant in the panel. Taylor is club.org or call (415) 597-6705. Manicure - Pedicure - Massage - Facial - Waxing Lamorinda’s Diverse Talents Help East Bay Deaf Children By Sophie Braccini rinda’s Jill Ellis is the Direc- The team included the Chief progress they have made. inner ear) with an electric field. Otor of the Center for Early In- of Pediatric Otolaryngology Dr. A cochlear implant is a surgi- ... continued on page 7 tervention on Deafness (CEID), a Joshua Gottschall, Chief of Oto- cally implanted electronic device Berkeley not-for profit school serv- laryngology Dr. Raymond that provides a sense of sound to a icing deaf and hard of hearing chil- Hilsinger (an Orinda resident as person who is profoundly deaf or dren from the East Bay. Last well) and audiologist Linda Barton. severely hard of hearing. Unlike November she invited to the Center The team usually sees a patient hearing aids, the cochlear implant a team from Kaiser Oakland that about three times, but when they does not amplify sound, but works had performed a treatment that visited CEID they had the opportu- by directly stimulating any func- changed the lives of many deaf pa- nity to see the children one or two tioning auditory nerves inside the years after surgery and witness the cochlea (the auditory portion of the One month tients: cochlear implant surgery. trial offer

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LAFAYETTE DANVILLE MORAGA COUNTRYWOOD CLAYTON ROAD ORINDA MONTCLAIR Plaza Center Town & Country Moraga Center Treat & Bancroft Vineyard Center Village Square 6211 Medau Place, Oakland Page: 6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Share your thoughts with our community! Opinions in Letters to the Editor are the express views of the writers and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. Have trouble keeping weight off? All published letters will include the writer's name and town (please give us your phone number for •Physician diagnosis & treatment verification purposes only), and should be 350 words or less. Letters may be edited for length or legal considerations. •Comprehensive approach email: [email protected]; Regular mail: Lamorinda Weekly, P.O.Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570 •Mindful eating coaching Here’s help to Dear Editor, Dear Editor, Now Mr. Holt is trying to cir- ever billed Louise for extra po- •Medical meal replacements cumvent this whole process. lice overtime, when the wor- find & keep the I appreciated the community Further to Ms. Pam Swarts’ ex- The City council has the plan- shippers come and have their •Medications an option police reports as it keeps us cellent clear letter in Dec 24, ning commission to do the work candlelight vigils. Who pays for •Solutions for stress, mood, sleep healthiest you aware and watchful. she is absolutely right on. whether to recommend or deny that ? You and me. Do you ever •Personable, customized, simple However please eliminate the Is Lafayette becoming a sister the application They anoni- think the city will bill an old pal Call now for a FREE consultation “cutesy” comic remarks at the city to Chicago Illionois, where mously rejected. Mr. Holt, if the tree sitters close of each item. It’s not ap- the Lafayette City council does come? They stayed at UC propriate. not listen to "we the people", Lafayette - among other - Berkeley for almost 1 year. (925) 658-2500 Thank you. but instead worships Messrs. stands for nature, trees, beauti- Please come out and see for Holt & Bowie. ful hill-sides, and even the city yourself at Sierra Vista way and Nathalie Bera-Miller, MD, MPH B. Campbell logo - right behind the seated Session, as the proposed build- Bariatric & Preventive Medicine Lafayette Mr. Holt went thru the process city council members - has a ing lot is staked out. You will be 953 Mountain View Drive, of the planning commission. tree in in. Mr. Holts plan calls horrified what political clout Lafayette Mr. Holt was sitting as a plan- for cutting down some apx. 20 and money may be doing. www.weigh2healthmd.com ning commissioner, and finally old red-wood trees. The un-em- he realized the conflict of inter- ployed former Berkeley tree sit- Above is only some of many se- est issue in hearing his own ap- ters have been out and seen the rious other problems with this plication. He excused himself, trees. They are quite worried lot. but took a seat in the audito- and ready to tree-sit. Do we re- rium, where he could keep "eye ally need this in Lafayette, to City Council - please remem- contact" with his fellow com- put extra burden on our 2 police ber, who elected you. We the missioners. Even thru this in- officers on duty? Haven’t we People. Mr. Holt is only 1 vote. timidation, the Planning learned from the crosses, where commission voted the applica- a landowner was able to express Allan Houlberg tion down. a political point. Has the city Lafayette Offering Complete Free-In-Home Estimates Systems, Upgrades & 925-209-7001 Universal Remote Solutions • LAMORINDA Community • Proudly Serving The Lamorinda P.O. Box 365 Community Since 2002 Moraga, CA 94556 Route 106 Spared For Campolindo Students By Sophie Braccini Motorists Duped into Dumping Dough at Dealerships he Central Contra Costa After learning about the dozens of cars off the Moraga Transit Authority proposed cuts, Roberts, who has streets daily.” ederal Law states a manu- T (CCCTA, also known as children at both schools, started Dessayer confirmed that facturer cannot deny any F County Connection), in re- a campaign to encourage par- CCCTA will run one bus in the warranty claim due to mainte- sponse to an outpouring of con- ents to petition the agency. The morning and one in the after- nance being performed by an cern from parents in a large Campolindo High School Par- noon. “The service is main- independant repair shop. residential neighborhood of ents Club and Joaquin Moraga tained for Campolindo Many consumers have been Moraga, has agreed to maintain PTA supported her and sent students,” said Dessayer, who led to believe that they are re- some of the Route 106 bus line emails to all parents asking personally worked with CCCTA quired to return to the dealer- that had been scheduled to be them to participate in the cam- staff to make this happen. “As ship for maintenance of their cut due to budgetary concerns. paign. “We could not have been far as JM is concerned, the num- vehicle. This is not true ac- Sarah Roberts, who coor- able to get this word out with- ber of students was too small (to cording to the law. In fact it is dinated a petition campaign, is out help from Diana Obrand, warrant service). I personally illegal for any dealership to happy with the results of her President of JM's PTA and Ann observed only two or three JM state or imply that your vehi- grassroots efforts. “I am thrilled Oeth and Grace Panetta, Co- students taking the bus.” cle must be serviced by them to be able to tell you that I re- Presidents of the Campolindo The service will remain to keep the warranty valid. ceived word from Al Dessayer, Parents Club,” acknowledges unchanged until March 22nd, Moraga's Citizen Advisory Roberts. “We all know these after that date the ‘school trip- Representative to the County economic times are hard, and per’ schedule will be imple- Connection (CCCTA), that at public agencies also need to mented. For further updates, go Recent repair shop comparison has been performed: the December 16th meeting the make cuts to their services, but to the County Connection web- County Connection voted to ap- keeping the ‘school tripper’ page at Orinda Motors Dealership prove the ‘School Tripper’ bus routing of the 106 bus will keep http://www.cccta.org/index.html Service Keeps Your Warranty Valid Yes ✓ Yes ✓ Factory Trained Technicians Yes ✓ Yes ✓ service we petitioned them State of the Art Diagnostic Equipment Yes ✓ Yes ✓ about,” wrote the Moraga Access to Factory Repair and Service Info Yes ✓ Yes ✓ mother in a recent email to par- Tires and Alignment Yes ✓ Some ents. Lamorinda’s Emissions Testing Yes ✓ Some Last November, County On-Site Rental Service Yes ✓ Some Connection announced that due Complimentary Vehicle Pickup & Delivery ✓ Some Religious Services Yes to budgetary constraints they Trust- Always Get What You Pay For Yes ✓ Some Excellent Customer Service Yes ✓ Some had to cut about 25% of their Green Business Yes ✓ 1 (inCCC) routes. The decision on what Open Door Shop Policy Yes ✓ No routes to cut was based solely Locally Owned / Family Business Yes ✓ No on the number of passengers per While You Wait! Drive Through Service Yes ✓ No day at each stop. That’s how the ✓ Access to Your Vehicles Technician Yes No part of Route 106 that serves Conveniently Located In Your Home Town Yes ✓ No Canyon Road and Camino Local Community Support and Involvement Yes ✓ No Pablo Drive in Moraga was cut: Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church, 433 Moraga Way Orinda For Convenience, Value and Honesty, it is used primarily by students 8:15 a.m. Traditions Worship Service going or coming from Cam- Approved 9:15 a.m. Coffee Fellowship Auto Repair Orinda Motors is the Best Choice! polindo and Joaquin Moraga In- 9:40 a.m. Education for all ages termediate (JM) schools. That’s 10:45 a.m. Celebrations Worship Service ORINDA MOTORS Orinda Motors, Inc. not many passenger when you 925-254-3422 Childcare available for ages 5 and younger look at the whole day, but for Our Savior’s Lutheran (ELCA) Free 63 Orinda Way, Orinda • (925) 254-2012 • www.orindamotors.com some students the route is their 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette only way to get to school. 283-3722 • www.oslc.net Children’s Sunday mornings at OSLC: Concert! Classic Worship, 8:15 am Friday 1/9 Education Hour, 9:30-10:20 am Contemporary Worship, 10:30 am 7:30-8:30 St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church Shop A Loving Community Sunday Services: 8 and 10 AM locally Active Youth Program, Childcare whenever 682 Michael Lane, Lafayette, 284-7420, www.stanselms.ws St. Giles Episcopal Church of Moraga Alain Pinel Realtors you can. Worshipping at St. Mary’s College Chapel. All are welcome at our services. 9 a.m. Sunday Service: Holy Communion - with St. Giles' Choir. revolutionized Bay Area real estate Only Child care is available all year. 1928 St. Mary's Road, Moraga. 925-376-5770 practices in 1990. your CHRISTIAN SCIENCE Nearly two decades later, Nearly two decades later, support Church Services and Sunday School (up to age 20); 10 - 11 AM we still are. Informal Testimony Meeting, Wed 7:30 - 8:30 PM of our 24 Orinda Way www.christianscienceorinda.org We are proud to call Read about healing through prayer at Lamorinda our neighborhood. local www.christianscienceorinda.org Willow 1675-1689 School Street, Moraga, After all, we’re neighbors, too. businesses www.willowspringchurch.org (925) 376-3550 Spring Sunday Service Times: Prayer @ 8am, Church: Traditional @ 9am, Contemporary @ 10:30am will keep Weekly Activities: Wednesday Community Bible Study @ 10am, REVERB (youth) @ 7pm Friday Night BLAST! Kids Club @ 6pm, them open! and Saturday Night Catalyst (Young Adults) @ 7:30pm If you would like your services listed, please email to ORINDA | 2 Theatre Square, Suite 215 925.258.1111 [email protected] or call 925-377-0977. A one inch listing will cost $20. Wednesday, January 7, 2009 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 7 • Life in LAMORINDA • Toot Sweets Says Goodbye By Sophie Braccini all,” she says. But last year she hurt recipe book that will be available her shoulder transporting heavy for purchase on blurb.com. She trays and after she underwent sur- would like her customers to send gery, she realized that something her emails indicating what recipes Over 30 Years Combined Legal Experience had to change. they are most interested in; her Behind her Lafayette bakery, email address is: marcy@marcy- Estate Planning Wills & Trusts Probate Litigation she’s been renting a studio with the wheeler.com. Lamorinda Arts Alliance where 2 Theatre Square, Suite 240 Office: 925.258.9091 painters meet, work, interact and Lafayette Police Officers were Orinda, CA 94563 www.lclaw.com also offer art classes for adults. regularly spotted having their “I felt we needed a place to morning oatmeal at Toot work together, not only a location Sweets. Wheeler says: “I know to sell,” says Wheeler, “and this is it sounds silly, but the recipe why this studio came to life.” She most people have asked for 4(%2%3 ! .%7 .%)'("/2 adds that if she didn’t have her INYOURNEIGHBORHOOD Marcy Wheeler in her Lafayette bakery Photo provided lately is for our oatmeal. painting, leaving the bakery would Sometimes it is those little #ALLORVISITMETODAY Mike Rosa mily Sabatte is quite dis- Lafayette in the 90’s.” have been much harder. “Art is my ‘tricks’ that make the differ- !GENT.AME 3TATE&ARM!GENTState Farm Agent, tressed. For eight years now Creating cakes was always number one passion and I’ve had to 1042 Country3TREET!DDRESSs#ITY 3TATE:IP Club Dr Suite 2D • Moraga E ence!” license # 0F455830HONEs% MAIL • 925-376-2244 • [email protected] the Lafayette mom has been buying Wheeler’s forte. “Marcy created a make choices,” confesses Wheeler. Toot Sweets Oatmeal her daughters’ birthday cakes at most delicious and beautiful cake Wheeler and her husband Bring 2 cups water to a rolling Toot Sweets in Lafayette and now for the baptism of my first daugh- have sold Toot Sweets’ lease to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and 1 that the shop is closing, she doesn’t ter,” remembers Sabatte, “her deco- frozen yogurt business; she thinks cup Quaker Oats Old Fash- š know another local bakery that ration was delicate and dainty.” that this is a hard time for high-end ioned Oatmeal. 0  3TATE&ARM)NSURANCE#OMPANIESs(OME/FFICES "LOOMINGTON ),sSTATEFARMCOM would offer the same quality and Wheeler’s ability to create bakeries and it might be the right Stir only briefly. Turn down creative conceptions. unique decorations was one of the time for her to retire anyway. “Peo- heat to low. The bakery has been located Sabatte’s favorite features. “Marcy ple go to Safeway or Costco be- Continue to cook 5 minutes, BUSHVELD CONSTRUCTION always added something special cause it is cheaper,” she at 3518 Mt. Diablo Blvd. for thir- and then turn off heat and let CA License #762192 - Insured - Local Referrals Available teen years. “We started our first and for my daughters the arrival of acknowledges, “but by doing so sit for 3-5 more minutes. Serving the area for 16 years! We are creative in saving costs! business in Berkeley when we were the pink box was the real beginning they make choices that will kill the Letting the water boil first very young,” remembers Marcy of the celebration.” independent businesses that live in and not over-agitating the Specializing in all types of outdoor Wheeler, the bakery’s owner, “our When Wheeler’s son their community.” She believes cooking oatmeal helps keep projects & living spaces (decks, retaining first place was The Edible Express reached 6th grade, the family that a movement like “Try the structure of the individual walls, drainage, fireplaces, kitchens, etc). on College Avenue, and the first moved to Lafayette. “It was a per- Lafayette First” is a great initiative rolled oat. You just can't get Proficient in solving structural problems. Toot Sweets in Berkeley supplied fect solution for me,” she explains, to raise people’s awareness about that texture with instant, or if the café on College.” “I worked and lived here, the kids the importance of shopping locally. you beat it up with a spoon as Ofc/Fax:925.465.4398 Cell:925.989.9308 “We have been customers and their friends helped at the bak- Over the years, she created or it's cooking. Having the [email protected] of theirs since the Edible Ex- ery during the holidays, it was part modified hundreds of recipes. “I’d water already boiling before press days,” recalls Connie of our identity.” love to have the recipe for her pecan adding the oats helps set the Chiba of Moraga. She used to Now that her children are pie,” says Chiba, “and her Boston shape. Brown sugar, raisins, take her toddlers there (they are grown, Marcy says it’s time to re- cream cake, and her tarts which cinnamon, cream...that's all now adults), “and we were so tire from the bakery. “When you’re were so excellent.” up to your preference. delighted when they moved to young you feel that you can do it Wheeler plans to create a Lamorinda’s Diverse Talents Help East Bay Deaf Children ... continued from page 5 and deaf children the cochlear children flourish after implanta- implant surgery can be per- tion, which in large part is due to formed as early as twelve the nurturing environment CEID Jumpstart Your Weight Loss months. provides.” After the surgery, it takes The Kaiser team observed Lose 15 to 60 pounds in 12 weeks! them nine months to make sense their young patients within their of sounds and start producing educational environment and Physician-Supervised Weight Loss • Dietary Guidance sentences. “The signing bridges during individual speech and au- Safe and Effective Medication • Long Term Weight Management the gap,” adds Lettko, “my job as ditory training sessions. “I really a speech pathologist is to teach liked the way the CEID staff them language and I see the chil- worked with the children within dren four times a week in indi- a group setting in the classroom vidual sessions.” CEID provides and then during a one on one in- Walnut Creek San Ramon toddler and pre-school programs dividual therapy session,” said 710 S. Broadway, Suite 110 2333 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Suite 175 (LtoR) Jill Ellis, Linda Barton, Ray Hilsinger, Joshua Gottschall, as well where the children learn Hilsinger, “we really enjoyed our 925-287-8777 • www.jumpstartmedicine.com Carol Lettko holding child Sunnan Mushtaq, and Kim Burke-Giusti language through play and struc- visit and were particularly im- (teacher of the deaf) Photo courtesy of CEID tured activities. pressed with the progress our pa- External components of the speech/language pathologist The Kaiser team usually tients have made.” cochlear implant include a mi- Carol Lettko of Orinda. never sees the children after the The cochlear implant sur- A Neighbor You Can Trust… crophone, speech processor and “Our philosophy at CEID is surgery. Gottschall commented gery is not a miracle cure and re- an RF transmitter.The therapy to use signs and spoken words si- that he meets the children prior to sults vary depending on the that follows the surgery is the multaneously, so they are seeing the surgery, on the day of sur- children. Some can rejoin main- Happy key to the success of the inter- and hearing at the same time.” gery, and for a follow up ap- stream schools, others continue vention. Ideally, a child should be pointment, “but to see these in specialized environments, New Year “When children are im- diagnosed at birth, a first hearing children almost one to two years every child is different and par- planted, they don’t automatically aid should be given at 3 months later and to see the progress they ents make that decision. make sense of these new sounds so the hearing nerves get stimu- are making is just amazing. It is For more information go to Lamorinda! they are hearing,” explains CEID lated, and for severely impaired really wonderful to see how the www.CEID.org. Trombonist Steve Turre –An Exciting Night of Jazz By Andrea A. Firth Born and raised in Tickets are $25 for gen- students. For more informa- Steve Snyder Lafayette, Turre attended eral admission; $20 seniors tion or to purchase tickets, Mortagage Consultant Lafayette Elementary School (65+); $12 Saint Mary's Col- please call 925.631.4381 or [email protected] where he got his start on the lege faculty, staff and non- go to www.stmarys-ca.edu trombone. He and his (also SMC students; and $2 SMC and click on "Arts." CA Dept. of Real Estate Broker # 01111899 very musical) siblings took les- sons at Campana Music and participated in the music pro- grams at Stanley Intermediate School as well. A graduate of 9OUR,AMORINDATO2OSSMOOR#ONNECTION Acalanes High School, Turre 9OUR,AMORINDATO2OSSMOOR#ONNECTION often returns to the Bay Area to /.%34/03(/00).' visit family, conduct classes for middle and high school stu- FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS Jazz trombonist Steve Turre Photo provided dents and to perform before devoted fans in the local jazz ne of the world's preem- scene. Oinent jazz innovators, Turre has been a member Lafayette native Steve Turre of the Saturday Night Live will return to his roots in Band since 1984, teaches at Lamorinda to lead the Steve the Juilliard School, and main- Turre Quartet in an evening of tains a full schedule of interna- jazz at Saint Mary’s College tional touring. He has worked (SMC) on Wednesday, Janu- and played with such jazz ary 14, 2009. The Committee greats as Ray Charles, Woody for Lectures, Art and Music at Shaw, Art Blakey, Dizzy Gille- SMC will host Turre, the man spie, Herbie Hancock, Tito widely considered this gener- Puente, Van Morrison, Horace ation's finest trombonist. Join- Silver and Max Roach. His di- ing Turre in bringing verse musical style has also unparalleled jazz to Moraga been influenced by the Latin,     will be Dino Parson on drums, blues, Afro-Cuban and pop Kito Gamble, piano and music worlds. Turre also uses David Ewell on bass. The per- self-designed conch shells to formance will take place in make music, an instrument that the college's Soda Activity his ancestors in Mexico also Center starting at 8:00 p.m. played. -!2)!%"%2,%.!.#9'2!."%2'#).$9-!$$58*)-/,3/. Page: 8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2008 Not to be missed Not to be missed Not to be missed Lafayette writer-turned-painter Nina monthly meeting of the year on Sun., Jan. intermediate. Jan. 5-Feb. 23 6-week se- MUSIC & THEATER Tyksinski is known in the gallery for her 11 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the Community ries: $69/single, $126/couple. Orinda Lafayette Senior Services Events large abstracts in acrylic, her recent paint- Room of the Concord Police Station, Community Center, 26 Orinda Way Reg- RSVP (925) 284-5050 The Committee for Lectures, Art and ings seek to capture the phenomenon of 1350 Galindo Road, Concord. Health ister by calling 925-254-2445, or at your Music at Saint Mary's College welcomes the northern lights using watercolor while Care For All - California is a nonprofit or- first class! All events take place at the Lafayette Community Center, 500 St. Mary’s Rd. A Steve Turre, the man widely considered placing them in local surroundings, in- ganization dedicated to ensuring that all minimum $1 donation at the door would be appreciated. this generation's finest trombonist, on cluding the Chapel at Saint Mary’s and Californians have comprehensive, reli- Beachcomber Singles-Newcomers Wednesdays Jan 7, 14, 21 and 28th, 12:30-3:00pm Wed., Jan. 14th. The performance takes Mount Diablo. The Moraga Art Gallery able and affordable health care through a Potluck Dinner, Davies room, Lafayette Enjoy afternoon Tea Dancing and light refreshments, and learn some great is a co-operative gallery of 20 artists in single payer public system..Admission is Orinda Presbyterian Church, Lafayette place in the college's Soda Activity Cen- new dance moves. Professional dancers Karen and Michael will provide a ter; curtain time is 8 p.m. Tickets: $25 the Rheem Valley Shopping Center, 570 free and all are invited to attend. For on Sun., Jan. 18, 6:30 p.m. Bring a dance lesson and live DJ services, playing your favorites and taking requests. general; $20 seniors (65+); $12 Saint Center Street in Moraga (MoragaArt- more information contact Pat Snyder at potluck dish and beverage to share and Mary's College faculty, staff and non- Gallery.com).Open Tuesday through [email protected] or (925) 962-0379. $2. Remember your New Year's Resolu- Live Oak Room, $2 fee covers refreshments. SMC students; $2 SMC students. For Sunday, 12-5 pm, 925.376.5407. Artist tion to get out and meet new (nice) people! more information or to purchase tickets, Reception for the Northern Lights show The Commonwealth Club of Califor- Call Jerry for more info 510.799.2207. Thursdays Jan 8, Jan 22, Feb 12, 1:00-2:30pm please call 925.631.4381 or visit will be January 10, from 3 to 5 PM. nia presents: Problems with Progress: A Embracing Aging with Story and Movement. Marlys Tobias, InterPlay leader www.stmarys-ca.edu. See article page 7 Historical Perspective on the Presidency. Big Band Ball Room Dance, Friday, and dancer. Ease, joy, and playfulness can be an integral part of your life. We Illuminated Sculpture opens January Thursday, January 15 at the Veterans Me- January 23 at the Art Deco Rheem The- will share our stories and discover the wisdom of our bodies through move- Audition now for the East Bay premier 11 and runs through February 22 at the morial Hall, 3780 Mount Diablo Blvd in atre in Moraga, 350 Rheem Blvd. Doors ment. All bodies and hearts welcome. women’s ensemble! WomenSing is Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Lafayette (6:00 p.m. reception, 6:30 p.m. open at 6:30 pm and the dance runs from holding auditions in early January, and by Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. program.) As the nation prepares to inau- 7:00pm through 10:00pm. Students from Thursdays Jan 8th and Feb 12th 10:30 – noon. appointment for experienced singers. The exhibit will showcase sculptures gurate the first African-American presi- Acalanes High, Campolindo High and Positive Living Forum presents eminent speakers and a wide range of topics Altos are particularly encouraged to au- using a variety of forms of illumination dent, Americans wonder if our country Stanley will be featured with the Ross- that will stimulate and guide participants towards a more ideal and positive including gases, incandescent light and can truly become colorblind. How will moor Big Band and students are encour- dition, but all voice parts are welcome. life experience. Drop-ins are welcome. Contact us by email at audition@wom- emerging mediums like laser, plasma, Obama’s victory shape American his- aged to attend the dance. Tickets are ensing.org, call our voice mail fiber optics and light-emitting diodes tory? Join a quintessential American his- $10.00 and may be purchased at the Thursday Jan 22 from 10:30 – Noon (LED). Opening Reception: Sunday, Jan torian as he unveils the pitfalls and Rheem Theatre, the Lafayette Chamber 925.974.9169, or go to www.wom- Dr. Elliot Wagner, OMD, LAc, Licensed Acupuncturist, Dr. Wagner will ex- ensing.org for more info. 11, 3-5 pm. Meet this innovative group triumphs this election has delivered upon of Commerce or the Orinda Chamber of of light artists, enjoy wine and hors the American psyche. Tickets are $12 for Commerce. Purchase your tickets in ad- plain in clear, simple language how acupuncture works, how it helps to heal ART d'ouevres Free for LCA members, Friends members, $18 for non-members, $7 for vance, as this event has sold out in the pain, and what health problems it effectively treats. of the Bedford. General admission $5. students. For tickets, visit common- past. Space is limited. Call 925-284-7404 Bert Monroy, Master Artist Tribute wealthclub.org or call (415) 597-6705. or visit www.lafayettechamber.org for in- Fridays, Jan 16th and, 30th.1 -2:30pm. VIII: A Digital Artist Paints With Light "Objects of Affection," the new show at See article on page 7. formation. See article on front page 1. A creative writing workshop based on the themes of self-discovery, aging, January 17 – April 5. The Hearst Art the Lafayette Gallery, 50 Lafayette Cir- and healing will be offered by Izabela Filipiak, international lecturer and Gallery of Saint Mary’s College is cle, opens on Jan. 13th and runs through The theme for the 2009 presidential in- Orinda author Sally Small will discuss writer. Participants will create both semi-autobiographical and fictionalized pleased to present a major survey of the March 7th, 2009. A festive public recep- auguration is "A New Birth of Free- and sign copies of her new novel Two narratives seeking inspiration from Leonora Carrington’s deep, funny, and preeminent digital master Bert Monroy, tion will be on Feb 6, 2009, from 6:30 to dom," commemorating the 200th Sloughs.Thursday, January 15 at 4pm. imaginative novel, The Hearing Trumpet, and other literary masterpieces as a world-renowned Photoshop artist and 8:30 PM. The show coincides with Valen- anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. Orinda Book, 276 Village Square, teacher, known for pioneering and inno- tine’s Day celebrations. The viewer is The community's Martin Luther King Orinda. 925-254-7606. www.orind- well as their own life experiences. vative digital painting technique. On treated to multiple canvases offering a fine Day observance will be held at the Civic abooks.com Friday, Jan 23, 11:30am – 12:30pm Sun., Jan. 18, at 2 p.m, using software as art gift for your object of affection. For this Park Community Center Assembly Hall, his brush and canvas, Monroy will offer special show, gallery artists create 12"x12" 1365 Civic Drive from noon to 1:00 p.m. The Orinda Woman’s Club is currently Come learn how to improve your balance and stop worrying about falling. a public Photoshop demonstration in the canvases with their personal interpretation on Monday, January 19. The event is co- welcoming applications for major bene- Losing your balance is usually simply due to poor muscle strength, espe- Soda Activity Center, followed by a re- of affection in all its many guises. Gallery sponsored by the Interfaith Council of ficiaries of the funds of next year’s Festi- cially in your ankles. Learn exercises to improve your balance and feel con- ception. The exhibition opens Saturday, Hours: 11–5 pm Tue. – Sat. 50 Lafayette Contra Costa County, the Mt. Diablo val of Trees Event held in November fident walking on any surface. Jan. 17, and continues through Sunday, Circle, 925-284-2788. Peace and Justice Center, and the City of each year. Applicants must conform to There is no charge. Please call (925)284-5050 to register. Apr. 5, 2009. Public Hours: Wed - Sun, Walnut Creek. specific guidelines and the organization 11 a.m. - 4:30p.m. Admission: $3; chil- PERSPECTIVES must benefit families, women and/or Tuesday, Feb 10, 1-2:30pm dren 12 and under free; Gallery members A community celebration to mark the children Demonstrate that the funds go Mollie Fujioka will relate what it was like to be traumatically uprooted by Green Rheem film night- “The Future free. 925.631.4379. www.hearstart- historic inauguration of Barack directly to hands- on care. For details and order of the United States government to live under harsh conditions at the gallery.org of Food” Jan. 8th 6 pm wine and appe- Obama, the first African-American U.S. to obtain an application form, please con- infamous Tule Lake internment camp in California during WWII. She will tizers and at 7pm the movie starts. The President, will be held Jan. 20th 7:30 to tact Adeline McClatchie, 925 254 1162 The Moraga Art Gallery kicks off the movie offers an in-depth investigation be- 10:30 am, Lesher Center for the Arts, [email protected] cover not only what life was like during those childhood formative years – New Year with a double feature explor- hind the unlabeled, patented, and geneti- 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. The she graduated from high school there! - but also how she and her family ing an uncommon theme: The Northern cally engineered foods that have quietly event, which will include a live TV feed Widowed Persons Support will be of- have managed not only to survive but to thrive. Lights in Moraga. The January 6-March filled U.S. grocery store shelves for the of the inauguration ceremony in the Hof- fering a series of six GRIEF SUPPORT 14 show will highlight artworks by local past decade. Green Rheem is organized mann Theatre, will be from 7:30 to 10:30 GROUP MEETINGS. Saturdays from Friday Feb 20, 1:30 – 2:30pm artists Vivien Hart and Nina Tyksinski. by Generation Green, Sustainable Moraga, a.m. The event is free but seating is lim- 10 a.m. to Noon January 10, 17. 24, 31, Afternoon Piano Jazz Café at the Community Center Featuring Members of Vivien, who lives in Orinda, creates artful Sustainable Lafayette, and Parents for a ited and registration is required. To regis- February 7 and 14, 2009 and will be held the Contra Costa Performing Arts Society on. The music varies from show cabinetry knobs and pulls from fused Safer Environment. Rheem Theater, 350 ter, go online to in St. Stephen’s Church, 66 St. Stephens tunes and jazz standards to original compositions. There is no charge, but, a glass, “functional art on a glass canvas.” Park Street, Moraga (Rheem Shopping http://www.walnut-creek.com/. Drive, Orinda. These meetings are led by Center) Pre order Tickets for $14: small donation would be appreciated. Light refreshments are offered. Call trained Facilitators. There is no charge and Lafayette Senior Services at 284-5050 to let us know you are coming. www.sustainablelafayette.net/events/green OTHER no need to make a reservation, just walk -rheem.html or at the ticket office for $17. in. For information call: 510-932-3448. Lamorinda Teen Center Meeting. Par- Monday Jan 26, 1:30 – 2:30pm Bi-Monthly Caregiver Support Group-Caring for frail older adults in the A special program, “How Green is ents and middle and high school students The Peripheral Neuropathy Group Your Footprint,” will be presented by are encouraged to attend a meeting to dis- will meet on Fri., January 23 from 10 AM home often creates great stress and emotional anguish for spouses and fam- The Association of University Women on cuss plans for the proposed Lamorinda to 11:30 AM in the Las Trampas Room ily members. Licensed geriatric care manager Carol Shenson, M.A., CMC, Tuesday, Jan 13 from 9:30 – 11:30 am. Teen Center on Jan. 7, 7 p.m. at the at Hillside Club House. This will be a get offers a bi-monthly support group for family members who are considering Special Guest Speakers will be Doug Orinda Community Center in Room 7. acquainted and sharing of experiences or currently involved with the direct care of an older relative.To sign up, call Tom McCormick, City Council Member, Grandt and Paul Valva who are with Al time. Peripheral Neuropathy is a little 284-5050. Drop-ins welcome. Rheem Gore’s Climate Project. There will be Orinda resident, parent and local attorney, known ailment and there has been no valuable tips for those who run house- will unveil plans for a Teen Center with cure found. It has been found that people Lafayette Senior Services Commission meets on the 4th Thursday at Theater holds, raise and train children, occasion- the mission to provide a permanent place can help each other by sharing their ex- ally mind the grandchildren and have for Lamorinda youth that promotes men- 3:30 – 5:30: PM at the Lafayette Senior Services Center. 350 Park Street periences with Peripheral Neuropathy. concerns about reducing our carbon foot- toring and learning, and offers recre- There is no cost. For questions of any Interested citizens may view meeting agendas at the City of Lafayette Moraga print. Many tables will be set up with ational, entertainment and social options kind please contact Nancy Ostrander at office or at www.ci.lafayette.ca.us. products and representatives who will in a safe and healthy environment. 930-9524 or Carolyn Cash at 254-8195. ( 988-3411 show you how to go green and with ex- citing new green project ideas for the fu- Paying for college: A free workshop on ture. The public is welcome – do come getting thousands of dollars for your and wear green. Holy Trinity Orthodox child’s college education will be hosted Jan 9 Church, 1700 School Street, Moraga. at the Orinda Community Center Garden BRIDE WARS Room located at 26 Orinda Way in with Kate Hudson, Yesterday and Today: The Church and Orinda on January 15 from 6:30pm to Anne Hathaway Anti-Semitism, Some Historical Per- 7:30pm. The speakers will be members The days since your parents helped you on Jan 16 spectives is the title of the talk Professor of Bay College Planners and cover such GRAN TORINO Johan Snapper will give at the Friday topics as how to send your kids to the your way to independence are long gone. with Clint Eastwood Forum on January 9 in Fellowship Hall school of their dreams without going at the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian broke; how to triple your eligibility for Now you are faced Church, 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette. Re- aid; how to find scholarships and grants with helping them freshments served at 1 p.m. with the lec- you’ve never even heard of. The semi- THE CURIOUS CASE OF tures at 1:30 p.m. Snapper observes that nars will last one hour. Admission is free BENJAMIN BUTTON when dealing with the Holocaust we usu- but seating is limited by the size of the FREE In-Home Assessment with Brad Pitt and Kate Blanchett ally focus on the Nazis or on the Jews. room, so please call 877-924-3726 to re- BEDTIME STORIES "My presentation adds an important third serve your seats now or register on line at Caring Companionship Attend Events with Adam Sandler partner, the Christian Church." A retired www.baycollegeplanners.com. Monitor Food and Diet Alzheimer’s & MARLEY & ME professor from UC Berkeley, Snapper has Light Housekeeping Dementia Care with Jennifer Aniston lectured on the Holocaust at many uni- Salsa Dance Classes at the Orinda Errands & Transportation Medication Reminders ® versities and conferences in Europe and Community Center, Salsa dancing is Visit Neighbors & Friends Up to 24-hour Care All seats the United States. fun, playful, healthy…and easy to learn. Mon thru Thurs No partner required. No experience nec- Call 925-376-8000 Health Care For All - California, Contra essary. Drop-ins are always welcome! all shows $6.00 Costa Chapter, will be holding its first Monday evenings. 7pm beginners, 8pm or visit www.seniorhelpers.com Licensed, Bonded & Insured Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated. www.lamorindaservicedirectory.com

Express Cleaning Services ALL FUR LOVE PET CARE Polite Dogs Are More Lovable Quality & Speed CA License: #616357 and Insured Holidays are over, time to get Flexible Daily Pet Visits while You’re away back to training. Or start FREE ESTIMATES training a new puppy or dog. Mid-Day Dog Walks IMPECCABLE REFERENCES It’s never to early or to late Barb Pensky, Orinda owner to train for good manners. Free Estimates Manners training in your 376-3380 home where it is Office & One-on-one coaching needed most. Home Cleaning MORAGA bonded & insured Please visit [email protected] 925-285-9194 www.italkdog.com for more (925) 354-9707 Lic. #35586 www.AllFurLovePetCare.com [email protected] info and other services.

Your Satisfaction O'BRIEN FAMILY PET CARE Call Jim is Our Goal Offer your Services on for dogs, cats, horses & exotics 925‑303‑0107 www.LamorindaServiceDirectory.com Dog Walking, Cat Visits, Pet Sitting, Overnight & Nursing Care, Standard Rates (printed and online): Fine Art Pet Portraits 1x 6x 12x 26x Insured and Bonded Blk&white: $45 $40 $35 $30 No Job Too Small Aimee O'Brien One color: $55 $50 $45 $40 Leak Repairs • Gutter Cleaning Registered Veterinary Full color: $60 $55 $50 $45 Senior Discount Technician with 10+ years Roof Maintenance experience with animals design included, restrictions may apply Jim Clemons - 925-303-0107 (925) 899-7354 (925) 708-6053 [email protected] [email protected] www.obrienfamilypetcare.com Call 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 9 • LAMORINDA Seniors • Let’s Dance at Rheem! ... continued from page 1

Ask The King Sisters’ opening night at the Rheem Theater in the mid 50’s Photo Don Bradley, provided by Rheem Theatre about our Frank Como, a Ross- sored by the City of Lafayette, Companion Care and Diablo Winter Move-in moor resident who was the the Lafayette, Moraga and Rapid Print. The Big Band of top arranger for Lionel Hamp- Orinda Chambers of Com- Rossmoor is sponsored by ton for twenty years in New merce, Lafayette and Moraga Kaiser Permanente Senior Special! York City, writes for the band Recreation Departments, Advantage. and arranges pieces so that each musician, including the What: Big Band Ball Room Dance youngest, shines on stage. The Who: The Big Band of Rossmoor and the communities of enthusiasm and fun the stu- Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga and Rossmoor dents have playing with their When: Friday, January 23, 2009, 7:00-10:00 (doors open at 6:30) elders creates the unique Where: The Rheem Theatre, located off Rheem Blvd at sound of the Rossmoor group. 350 Park Street (Rheem Center) in Moraga Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at: “We are very excited to The Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, 100 Lafayette Circle #103; be part of this fun event,” says The Orinda Chamber of Commerce, 26 Orinda Way; Edy Schwartz, President of The Moraga Chamber of Commerce, by email to Edy Schwartz, the Moraga Chamber of Com- [email protected]; merce, “the Band is amazing The Rheem Theatre, 350 Park St. and their music always gets Purchase your tickets in advance, as this event has sold out in people dancing all night the past and space is limited. Call 925-284-7404 or visit long.” www.lafayettechamber.org for more information. The event is co-spon- Happiness - The Search For ? By Jeanne Dowell ebster’s dictionary de- possible? What holds us back sense of well being. I plan to con- Wfines happiness as “plea- from it? How to find happiness in tinue this program I discovered surable/satisfaction, a state of well the midst of suffering and sad- that worked for me. being and contentment.” ness? What is the role of intro- • Spend more quality time with There is a ground swell of spection? How to bring happiness my family and grandchildren the need for happiness in our lives; to others? • Spend more time in nature a void that makes us aware some- Introspection techniques • “I won’t cry because it is over – thing is missing. such as meditation, and combined but smile because it happened” Independent Living in a “Laughter Yoga” classes are with Yoga have been found to help • Enjoy the process growing in popularity. There are in overcoming depression and • Do it now more comedy movies, new come- anxiety. Kindness and compas- • Stay present More Supportive Environment dians on the rise, and a new theme sion can aid us into a happy state • Live with compassion and park in El Cerrito started by of being. Happiness can be a kindness Richard Track, who wanted to learned behavior. Abraham Lin- Happiness is an attitude and • Fine dining: preserve the fun things of the past coln once said “most of us are a process we can all learn, but it with a museum dedicated to about as happy as we make our must be practiced continually to Choose one or two meals a day “happy fun things to do” with the minds to be.” Lincoln had suf- make it work. • Daily transportation original “laughing Sal” from San fered bouts of severe depression Jeanne Dowell is a certified Yoga Francisco Playland at the beach. and anxiety for years. instructor with an emphasis on • Weekly housekeeping and linen On opening my mail, I Last summer I took part of the Iyengar-Anusara method. She has taught at Moraga's Ha- found a brochure “Happiness and June, July and August off to men- cienda de las Flores for over 30 service included its Causes – An Exploration of tally “catch up” and attended a years and currently teaches Human Happiness in San Fran- wonderful Yoga and meditation through the Moraga and Orinda • Kitchens in every apartment cisco at the Westin Hotel. The retreat, went hiking with friends in Parks and Recreation Depart- ments among other venues. She • Month-to-month rentals DMV holds comedy drivers the high Sierras and had enjoyable recently founded, with her classes for negligent drivers. times with my grandchildren, my daughter, an eco-friendly line of • Secure parking garage for residents There is also a website called the house, garden, pets and realized I clothing and accessories, “Happiness Project.” needed this reconnection with na- www.thegreenbuddha.net. She believes in practicing the Atti- • Assisted Living Program available What is happiness? Is it ture and family to preserve my tude of Gratitude. Moraga Movers Elect New Board Submitted by George Fisher he Moraga Movers gust barbershoppers from Secretary; Phil Arth, Vice Twound up their banner SIR Branch 171 and the President; George Fisher, year with their Christmas NOTEables, the 25-member President, and Bob Foxall, luncheon at St. Mary’s Col- mixed chorus from the Treasurer. lege on Monday, December Lafayette Orinda Presbyte- Membership applica- 15. The Soda Center was a rian Church. tions are available at the Mor- beautifully decorated setting The 2009 Executive aga Parks office, La Sala, on for the 130 Movers in atten- Board was elected by accla- the Town of Moraga web site dance. Entertainment was mation: Pat Jensen, Record- (click on Departments, then provided by a surprise visit ing Secretary; Marcia Community Links), or by from the SIRpremes, the au- Fisherkeller, Corresponding calling the office at 376-6622. Retirement Residence Please call for more information, brochure or tour 925.937.1700 800.937.7974 www.byronpark.com

“An AF Evans Senior Community” Lic. #071440784 EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY 1700 Tice Valley Blvd. v Walnut Creek, CA 94595 Page: 10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Lamorinda Weekly is an independent publication, produced by and for the residents of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda, CA

Lafayette’s Prudential Team Lamorinda Weekly, P.O. Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570-6133 Staff Writers: presents: Phone: 925-377-0977; Fax: 1-800-690-8136; email: [email protected] Jennifer Wake; [email protected] We’re a community newspaper, and we welcome your input: Sophie Braccini; [email protected] Prudential Letters to the editor (max 350 words): [email protected] Cathy Tyson; [email protected] O $799,000 Sport events/stories/pictures: [email protected] Andrea A. Firth; [email protected] 327 El Toyonal California Realty Art, theater, community events: [email protected] Jean Follmer; [email protected] R Darling Orinda home with updated 925-283-7000 Business news or business press releases: [email protected] Contributing Writers: Linda U. Foley, I kitchen and threee bedrooms and two School stories/events: [email protected] Conrad Bassett, Susie Iventosch, bathrooms. Large Master bedroom General interest stories: [email protected] Mikaela Cowles, Guy Dotan, Alex Crook N with new bathroom and spacious Your Professional Publisher: Andy Scheck; [email protected], phone 925-330-7916 Sports Editor: Robin Schoettler Fox D just reduced backyard with lawn and patio. Lamorinda Team Associate Publisher: Wendy Wuerth-Scheck; [email protected] Photos: Tod Fierner, Doug Kohen, Jordon Fong Please call Jim Colhoun at Editor: Lee Borrowman; [email protected] Robert Johnson, Sheryl Cardiff A 925 200-2795 for more information is located at: Advertising: Wendy Wuerth-Scheck; 925-377-0977, [email protected] 25,500 printed copies; 24,000 mailed to homes and businesses in Lamorinda. W $ 939,000 999 Oak Hill Road A 2822 Filbert 1,400 delivered to pick up locations. Layout Andy Scheck, Moraga. Printed in California. L Lafayette N Beautiful Northgate rancher. U T 2123 sq. ft with a 700 sq. ft sun room. Top rated schools. JV LUCAS PAVING C Call Jennifer Griessel at R QUALITY • INTEGRITY • EXPERT WORKMANSHIP E 925 382-7484 for more E THIRD GENERATION PAVING COMPANY K information. • Driveways Call O $2,925,000 212 Camino Sobrante • Private Roads now for R Dic Pratt Elegantly Romantic Mediter- Winter I ranean Style home, in Orinda's Broker Associate • Tennis & Sports Courts premier Country Club location. Dic grew up in Contra Costa County • Parking Lots rates! N Call Debra Trevarthen 381-0325 graduating from Pleasant Hill High D mobil. School. Further education was ob- • Subdivisions See Virtual Tour at : tained at California State University A www.212caminoSobrante.com • Seal Coating at Hayward. Lic # 195560 Dic entered the Real Estate pro- $ 999,000 M fession in 1987 and at one point was 1004 Wickham Drive part owner of his own office for six 925-283-8027 O Great single-level 4 Bdr home in years. He has stayed abreast of the RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL desireable St. Marys Garden R neighborhhood. Recent updating with changes in the real estate market by A travertine tile floors and slab granite being involved in local Contra Costa kitchen counters. Ideal backyard Board of Realtors as a member of the LYNN’S TOP FIVE Lynn Ballou is a Certified Financial G features pool & spacious lawns. Just Ethics/Grievance Committee, a steps from Moraga Trail! Contact Jim Planner (CFP) and co-owner of Ballou A Colhoun at 925 962-6101 for more CCAR Association Director, and a Timely Planning Tips for Retirees Plum Wealth Advisors, LLC, a Regis- information or a private showing. CAR State Director serving on vari- By Lynn Ballou, CFP, EA tered Investment Advisory (RIA) firm ous state committees. W $889,000 t’s so great to live and work in a many of us pay tax on 85% of our in Lafayette. Lynn is also a Registered Dic says that his philosophy for A 3256 Sugarberry Lane community that embraces citi- Social Security Income, your return Principal and Branch Manager with L real estate sales is “to Sell Relation- I Gorgeous Woodland's Rancher LPL Financial (LPL). As such, she is re- N ships, not just property” through zens of all ages. Those of you who of all of it could result in a big de- U captures the essence of Walnut Creek. have made Lamorinda your home duction in the year you return the quired by securities regulations to T service and sincerity. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths completely Dic Pratt during your retirement years give a funds and reset – another interesting add the following information to this remodeled. Granite counters, C It's nice to be important, but column: The opinions voiced in this hardwood flooring, huge yard with lot of time, value and support us all. planning opportunity if you need a R material are for general information pool, lush landscaping and lawn. No it's more important to be nice. As we begin this new year with deduction in a certain year. You can E only and not intended to provide spe- E rear neighbors. Call Lisa Hoctor at 925-586-6889 much hope for an improved econ- tackle this issue with the help of the cific advice or recommendation for K 925 698-5752 for more information. [email protected] omy, I’d like to focus on some fi- government using their Form 521, any individual. Securities offered nancial planning strategies for our available online at socialsecurity.gov. through LPL Financial, member Lamorinda Home Sales continued community’s retirees. Be sure to enlist the assistance of FINRA/SIPC. Reach Lynn Ballou at 1) NO RMD IS REQUIRED your tax and financial advisors when [email protected] LAFAYETTE Last reported: 8 FOR 2009: This may be “old” news planning for this --- there is a lot to LOWEST AMOUNT: $620,000 to some of you, and it’s not quite the think about before going down this legislation suspending RMD’s for HIGHEST AMOUNT: $4,000,000 holiday present we had asked for, but road --- but a great planning idea for 2009, this is the question that should HOME SALES just last month, legislation was many! be forefront on your mind as you presented by MORAGA Last reported: 2 LOWEST AMOUNT: $787,000 passed that put into law the complete 3) TAX LOSS HARVEST- plan for retirement, and all the years suspension for 2009 of any for- ING: I bet I included this in about you are in retirement. Sometimes HIGHEST AMOUNT: $820,000 LAMORINDA merly REQUIRED MINIMUM half of my columns last year! But it’s a simple solution --- especially if ORINDA Last reported: 7 DISTRIBUTION (RMD) from now, retirees especially, you need to all your assets and income are going LOWEST AMOUNT: $91,500 your IRA. We had hoped for this re- think strategy: if you did as sug- to be coming from tax deferred HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,300,000 lief in 2008, when it would have gested, and booked as many sensible plans. But many retirees have mul- been its most helpful. As you may losses as you could last year, this tiple sources of net worth: income Home sales are compiled by Cal REsource, an Oakland real estate information weeks after such recording. This information is obtained from public county company. Sale prices are computed from the county transfer tax information records and is provided to us by California REsource. know, RMD’s are based on the prior year it will be important to begin off- from real estate, the potential of net shown on the deeds that record at close of escrow and are published five to eight Neither Cal REsource nor this publication are liable for errors or omissions. year’s ending balancing in your IRA setting those carry forward losses worth freed up from selling their LAFAYETTE account(s). 2008’s required distri- in excess of gains taken in 2008 home and buying one that is less ex- 696 Glenside Drive, $650,000, 3 Bdrms, 2186 SqFt, 1948 YrBlt, 12-3-08 butions were enormous compared to with gains you may still have on pensive, an investment portfolio that 3087 Gloria Terrace, $626,000, 5 Bdrms, 2332 SqFt, 1965 YrBlt, 12-10-08 the actual value in the accounts late your investment books. Many of was either saved on their own or per- 3672 Hastings Court, $2,139,000, 6 Bdrms, 3896 SqFt, 1957 YrBlt, 12-9-08 in 2008, because account values you have been very patient long- haps inherited from family, as well 3323 Johnson Road, $4,000,000, 8625 SqFt, 1988 YrBlt, 11-26-08 were still comparatively very high at term investors and have, despite the as increasingly what we are seeing in 3687 Nordstrom Lane, $1,390,000, 3 Bdrms, 2021 SqFt, 1957 YrBlt, 12-11-08 the end of 2007. However, we’ll recent markets, some decent gains - our own practice: the desire to work 5 Maloyan Lane, $1,640,000, 3 Bdrms, 3675 SqFt, 1983 YrBlt, 12-2-08 take what we can get! -- maybe particularly so in some part-time as retirees phase into com- 1111 Oak Hill Road, $775,000, 5 Bdrms, 2048 SqFt, 1933 YrBlt, 12-5-08 2) TAKE SOCIAL SECU- concentrated positions. So, this is plete retirement. There is both math 1165 Sierra Vista Way, $620,000, 3 Bdrms, 1368 SqFt, 1955 YrBlt, 12-1-08 RITY AT AGE 62, THEN GIVE the year to thinkg about beginning to and art to determining which assets MORAGA IT BACK AT AGE 65!: In a way, unwind some of those positions should be tapped into and in what 123 Alta Mesa Court, $787,000, 3 Bdrms, 1954 SqFt, 1974 YrBlt, 12-5-08 I hesitate to bring this up here, be- while using your harvested tax losses order. The answers may surprise you! Frequently, multiple assets 1101 Larch Avenue, $820,000, 4 Bdrms, 1745 SqFt, 1960 YrBlt, 12-10-08 cause the discussion on this point as shelter. I strongly recommend should be used simultaneously ORINDA could take an entire pamphlet --- but, working with your tax and invest- did you know that you can take your ment advisors on this before com- through several periods to provide 20 Crescent Drive, $775,000, 3 Bdrms, 1725 SqFt, 1950 YrBlt, 12-11-08 social security at age 62 and then mencing! Ugly issues such as you with your retirement income. 31 Descanso Drive, $1,226,000, 4 Bdrms, 2472 SqFt, 1960 YrBlt, 12-9-08 give it back at a later age, say age 65, alternative minimum tax (AMT) Your goal is to maximize the their 11 Knickerbocker Lane, $91,500, 3 Bdrms, 1432 SqFt, 1977 YrBlt, 12-4-08 for a reset at the higher amount? need to be thought through before life expectancy of all assets by min- 3 Muth Drive, $1,040,000, 3 Bdrms, 1437 SqFt, 1956 YrBlt, 12-10-08 Currently you are not required to you start. imizing the tax impact and maxi- 20 Muth Drive, $863,500, 4 Bdrms, 1942 SqFt, 1960 YrBlt, 11-26-08 give the government any interest, 4) TO RMD OR NOT TO mizing each asset’s potential --all 655 Tahos Road, $770,000, 4 Bdrms, 1155 SqFt, 1968 YrBlt, 12-11-08 just the principal when you partici- RMD: Most of the financial plan- this while evaluating which assets 217 Village Gate Road, $1,300,000, 3 Bdrms, 1436 SqFt, 1979 YrBlt, 12-2-08 pate in this program. And since ning software that’s out there uses make you happy to own, which the assumption that you will spend might be too big a burden, and which all your after tax assets first, and then need to be reconfigured to provide move on to your tax deferred or pre- you with retirement income and the tax assets next. Is that a good as- preservation of the lifestyle you are SB Painting sumption? Not always! Wasting the creating for yourselves. -0- or even 15% (and in some cases So, what have we learned here --- ah RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL the 25 or 28%) brackets can often --- if you thought that retirement was going to be entirely carefree and Exterior / Interior bite you later on when RMD’s or your simple income needs cause you easy, HAH! You have simply Exceptional prep. work to pull so much out of your IRAs segued to a whole new set of issues Fully insured and bonded later in life that you lose much more and responsibilities! That said, this is to taxes than you had planned on, the perfect time of year to take stock 925-932-3193 thus lowering your retirement assets of your situation and the many op- CA Lic. 555600 and potential estate to heirs signifi- portunities you have. As you are cantly. So, even though as we saw getting ready to prepare your 2008 C abinet M odifications in #1 above you CAN suspend your tax return, I recommend that you RMD for the year, it may not be a focus not just on what happened last good idea to do so --- at least not year, but most importantly on great completely. strategies to put in place for a re- 5) WHICH ASSETS DO I warding 2009. SPEND WHEN AND IN WHAT HAPPY NEW YEAR AND ORDER? With or without the new HAPPY PLANNING!

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UPS Store Expands – to Barcelona, 480 Moraga Rd Ste I, Moraga, 376-4480 Javier Galdon, owner of the Moraga Center UPS Store, will move to Spain this month or next. There he will open his second UPS Store. “This kind of business is still develop- ing over there,” he noticed during his last trip there, “it’s the right time for me to move back to the old country.” In the meantime, his wife will stay in Moraga to manage the local store. Maybe Lamorindans will get a good price on their shipment the next time they visit Barcelona? Javier Galden in his Moraga UPS Store Photo Sophie Braccini

Take One Video Moves One Mile East, 284-3140 The Take One Video store that used to be located near Handlebar Toys moved over the holidays about 1 mile East to 3400 Mt Diablo Blvd, across from Jack in the Box. The store hours are 10 a.m. to 10 pm on Saturday, noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the week. Lamorinda Weekly Editor Lee Borrowman with her son Shayan and daughter Ava Photo Andy Scheck Rheem Theater Offers Great Mid-week Deal, 350 Park St, Moraga - 376-0885 his week’s paper is Lamor- “While she is adventurous and ideas I come up with.” You don’t have to be a kid or catch a matinee to get a great bargain on new movies. Tom Peterson has announced Tinda Weekly’s 50th issue and loves stories that make us laugh, she “She is sometimes a hard that tickets for all shows will be discounted at $6 each Monday-Thursday starting January 6th. 1,000th page published – a mile- is sensitive to the fact that we live sale, but is always open-minded stone, certainly. It is also the in the community that we report on and ready to encourage and im- Coping Strategies in Difficult Business Times 1,000th page edited – an achieve- and write about, and she deftly prove on ideas as they are thrown Business owners in Lamorinda are preparing their businesses for a hibernation period. Strategies vary, but most ment that did not come without helps us to strike the right balance.” around,” explains Braccini. “She are centered on cost cutting, either in terms of hours (and labor) or inventory. In Lafayette, Contra Costa Station- much sacrifice and at the hand of a Never applying a heavy hand empowers and inspires us to give ers at 3643 Mt Diablo Blvd has been cutting back on their inventory to reduce cost. “People aren’t shopping right talented individual we in “the biz” and always ready with her sense of our best. Every other week, Lee now,” says store owner Chris Lane, “and putting my money on the shelf will just put me out of business.” Lane call Editor. humor, Lee has kept the Lamorinda spends days, including the weekend keeps the basics in his store and customers special order other items that he gets within a day or so. Lane has cut Our editor’s name? Lee Bor- Weekly team of writers a happy to review, improve and put together, down his hours of operation a bit as well. He has been in business for sixteen years and doesn’t plan to retire any- rowman. bunch. with Andy and Wendy Scheck, the time soon. Without Lee, (as well as the “She knows how to charm- Lamorinda Weekly.” The Rheem Valley Pet Shoppe in Moraga has applied the same strategy and cut its inventory on big items by 15%. Schecks, of course), the paper you ingly elicit the writer to produce “Dealing with deadlines, Jorge Quintero, the owner, now closes the store on Sundays to reduce his labor cost. Quintero himself works 6 ½ read every other week would the best story possible,” says staff juggling her kids’ school schedules days a week. Having another store in Lafayette allows him flexibility in his cost rationalization, hopefully without likely look much different, or quite writer Cathy Tyson. “I recently re- to attend editorial meetings, and losing any customers. simply, may not even exist. Near ceived this e-mail commenting on giving up every other weekend to The owner of Moraga Hardware decided to close the store for a few days to cut costs. Owner Bill Snider had re- the paper’s inception, Lee made a story I was working on with a work late into the night is not duced staff to the minimum, working 75 hours a week himself , and he reduced his inventory some months ago. sure to guide us in the right direc- colleague: everyone’s idea of a good time,” Snider may cut his early hours and further reduce staff to stay in business. All his variable expenses are being re- tion when it came to content and ‘Not complaining, would Tyson adds. “But despite the chal- visited and he plans to start discussions with his landlord and his suppliers. overall vision, would stay up into throw myself in front of a speed- lenges, she remains ever steadfast Others are trying the same tactic, but the suppliers are hurting too: King Florist’s Arlene Kohn has seen many the wee hours of the night making ing Humvee for either of you, but in what is appropriate for the paper growers going out of business and Quintero never got the rent reduction he asked from the owner of the building final edits before going to press, this really needs clarification!’ and deciphering the occasional that harbors his Lafayette store. Susan Marconi from Across the Way believes that suppliers will have to invent and would even write the majority She was right - it did, so I gray area between news, opinion new ways of doing business if they don’t want to lose all of their retailers. of the stories as we built up our pawned off the adjustment on my and advertising.” staff – all while continuing her colleague.” Writer Jean Follmer finds it The Alameda Small Business Development Center offers free classes to business owners. full-time job. Sophie Braccini, a “non-na- particularly rewarding to hear the In Oakland: Lee encompasses what every tive English speaker,” says she gave many positive comments about the e-commerce & Web Marketing Seminar in Oakland on Tuesday, January 27, 2009 from 2 to 5pm great editor should: she is mag- Lee a lot of editorial work. paper each week, and is grateful to Buying or Selling A/Your Business Seminar in Oakland on Thursday, January 29, 2009 from 2 to 5pm nanimous, patient, knowledgeable, “Lee claims that now it takes Lee for bringing the paper this far. In San Ramon: and is a great writer. A superhero, her only a few minutes to review “She is so reliable, respon- Accessing Capital for Small Businesses and Start-up Companies in San Ramon on Wednesday, February 4, 2009 in some respects, at least to us my prose, but if I have indeed im- sive, helpful, and honest. I know it from 9am to 12pm staffers. proved, I owe it to her patience and wouldn’t have been possible to For a complete list of classes go to www.eastbaysbdc.org. Staff writer Andrea Firth de- guidance,” Braccini says. “Lee ex- reach this milestone so easily with- scribes Lee as someone who is hibits the mane of a lion but re- out Lee at the wheel,” she says. News from the Three Chambers of Commerce “never afraid to tackle the tough mains a soft spoken diplomat. Of “She is tremendously valued by all course there have been challenging of us and her efforts are clearly Lafayette Chamber of Commerce story.” moments, like when she refused an paying off.” 2009 Predictions by Chamber CEO Jay Lifson: “None of us are sure what 2009 will look like for our local busi- “She remains cognizant of editorial I had written: ‘We do not From all of us at Lamorinda nesses or residents, but we want you to know that the Chamber will be here for you. Be sure that you are making the value of the news content and publish our opinions,’ she said. Weekly, the photographers, the re- the most of our services. And we can promise you that we will have an aggressive Shop Lafayette program in 2009. steers clear of stories that aim only “Our paper stays neutral and that’s porters, the interns and everyone in Let's all join together and get through these rough times.” to shock. She is exceedingly fair what people like about it.’ . . . And between, we thank you, Lee. You • Wednesday, January 12 at Noon, Green Committee in the Lafayette Chamber Conference Room. and won’t let a story slide without there are all those wacky article are truly the best. • Wednesday, January 14 at 5:30 p.m. Chamber Mixer at Urban Suburban, 3328 Mt. Diablo Blvd. both sides being told,” Firth says. • Thursday, January 15 at 8:30 a.m. Entrepreneur's Club in the Lafayette Chamber Conference Room. Moraga Chamber of Commerce • Chamber Mixer, Friday January 30th starting with coffee at 7:30 a.m. at the Hacienda de las Flores. Orinda Chamber of Commerce • Mayor’s Luncheon, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2009, Noon to 1:30 p.m. The Orinda Rotary Club and the Orinda Chamber of Commerce will host the Mayor's Luncheon. This event will introduce our new Mayor, Sue Severson, who will be giving the State of the City Address. The event will take place in the Orinda Community Center, 28 Orinda Way. The cost per person is $20.00. Purchase your admission online by going to the Chamber’s web site: orindachamber.org/events.php

If you have a business brief to share, please contact

Sophie Braccini at sophie@lamor- indaweekly.com

or call our office at 925-377-0977.

MUSIC LESSONS www.musicandart.org Lamorinda Academy of Music and Art Private and group lessons Piano, string instruments, voice Competitions, Tests, Fun All Ages & All Levels 925-299-1240 Page: 12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009 School Calendar School Governing Board Meetings Lafayette School District Moraga School District Lamorinda Schools Acalanes Union LAFSD Office Joaquin Moraga Intermediate 3477 School Street, Lafayette School Auditorium High School District Acalanes’ New Director of 1010 Camino Pablo, Moraga Board Room AUHSD Office Monday, Jan. 12 at 7:00 1212 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lafayette Effective 02/11/09, regular board Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 7:30 Instrumental Music Receives Award meetings will move to Wednesdays Wednesday, Jan. 14 at 7:30 Orinda Union School District By Jean Follmer Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 7:30 OUSD Office calanes High School’s new ucators Association (CMEA) Out- Co-Founder of the Contra Costa 8 Altarinda Road, Orinda ADirector of Instrumental standing Band Director in 2004, County High School Honor Band Monday, Jan. 12 at 4:00 Music, Norman Dea, was awarded the CMEA Bay Area Outstanding and he currently serves on the Ad- the Bandworld Legion of Honor Music Educator in 2005 and the visory Board for Cazadero Music Rheem Going Green Award from the John Philip Sousa California Band Directors Associ- Camp. Dea said he is honored “to By T.R. Audley Foundation last month. The award ation (CBDA) Citation of Excel- work at Acalanes High School most bags collected. Being the in each classroom at back to was presented during the Midwest lence in 2006. In 2003, Dea was with such supportive colleagues as overall winner meant that they school night so that teachers Band and Orchestra Clinic in honored as the Acalanes High Mr. Bruce Lengacher, Mr. Bob took home the first prize pot of can send class announcements Chicago. Dea said he was one of School District Teacher of the Athayde and Mrs. Loretta Mc- $3,000. Rheem’s effort, how- electronically. only six Band Direc- Year. He is also listed in Who’s Nulty and with such wonderful ever, added up even before the In addition to work on tors in the nation to re- Who in America and Who’s Who students and a supportive winner was decided. Through campus, Rheem is leaning on ceive the prestigious in American Education. community.” the Wal-Mart program, $5 is parents for recycling education annual honor. The award Mr. Dea is very active available to schools for each at home. The school asks par- is presented to exceptional in promoting music Rheem students pack-up plastic bags 60-gallon bag filled with the ents to elevate commonplace Concert Band Directors who education in our Photo provided used plastic bags. With 295 blue recycling bin by talking have taught for a minimum of 15 schools and heem Elementary School bags filled, Rheem earned about its importance with their years. Ris being recognized for $1,475 dollars even before the kids. Parents are also asked to Dea replaced Rick Meyer as their efforts to “go green.” grand prize was awarded. reduce children’s lunch waste the Director of Instrumental Music Over the past year, students, Before plastic, however, a and visit the Contra Costa at Acalanes this year. Prior to teachers, parents and adminis- bigger waste concern on cam- County Solid Waste Authority leading the band program at trators have more than met the pus is paper. So by communi- website for more ideas on ways Acalanes, Dea spent his entire 25- challenge to do better for the cating with parents through to reduce waste. year career in a similar capacity at environment. “Every little bit e-newsletters and a school For Rheem’s efforts, the Las Lomas High School in Walnut cur- helps,” says Principal Elaine phone messenger system, CCC Waste Authority has rec- Creek. Under his direction, the rently Frank. So she and her staff look Rheem cuts paper waste each ognized the school as well. performing groups at Las Lomas services as for opportunities to week. “We estimate that we are Since 2002, Rheem students “have consistently received Unan- the President- recycle…and cash in on their saving cases of paper each year, and staff have been dubbed ex- imous Superior Ratings and Gold elect of CMEA. efforts, too. thereby helping ease the strain emplary “Waste busters” by the Awards at music festivals through- He has also served During 2008, in their sec- on both our budget AND our Authority for their understand- out California and abroad.” Dea in past leadership ond year of participating in planet,” says Frank. And par- ing and practice of recycling. has accepted numerous awards in- positions for Norman Dea Wal-Mart’s “Kids Recycling ents don’t worry that important In 2008, they were brought into cluding: The California Music Ed- CMEA. Dea is the Photo provided Challenge” for plastic bag announcements from their the “Waste busters Leadership reclamation, Rheem School child’s teacher will be lost in Circle,” a distinction that will Ask Doctor Harold: was awarded 1st place in the their child’s backpack either. award the school $1,200 annu- San Francisco Bay Region for Email addresses were collected ally for continued efforts to re- ADHD - What is it, really? duce school waste. In addition, By Dr. Harold Jules Hoyle, Ph.D. Rheem 5th graders were invited was recently at a holiday party doing in here?’ (I am sure it hap- a tremendous amount of new dis- to be among the first in the Bay Iwhere the grandparent of a pened to you at least once this tribution models like patches and Area to visit the newly opened local child said to me, “We did- holiday season.) And then some- time-release capsules. Psycho- CCCWA Materials Recovery n’t have all this ADD stuff when one asks you what are you doing logical treatment includes indi- “A High-tech Brain 10% Off Facility in Benicia. I was a kid. Kids played outside in the kitchen…The research on vidual and family counseling, with the Patience Any Job with This Ad! Bess Inzeo, a teacher at and got everything out. I think it this shows your most common behavior modification, and direct of a Mother” Rheem, was instrumental in de- is these kids with all their elec- response will be to make some- instruction at the point of per- signing the field trip. “We are tronic stuff, what do you think?” thing up. This is what the ADHD formance. Social interventions Fast Expert Computer Help very proud of Ms. Inzeo’s work Once a psychological dis- kid has to deal with possibly hun- include time management train- on this project,” says Frank. As order makes its way into our pop dreds of times a day. ing, social instruction and use of from techmommy! a result of her involvement, culture, a lot of misinformation So this is not a disorder of social scripts. Rheem students were asked to • Troubleshoot any computer problem. can happen. So here is a crash the perceiving type of attention. What can you do to help? • Help in plain English, not tech talk. provide field trip feedback to course on the recent research on These kids see what other kids First of all, if you think • In-home or drop-off service available. help make the experience more Attention Deficit Hyperactivity see and know what other kids your kid has an issue get profes- successful for future visitors. Disorder (ADHD). know. They just can’t do what sional opinions, just like you “Over the years Rheem’s “greening” work 925-377-7711 techmommy has been our computer What is it? other kids can do. It is a disorder would if the check engine light savior and guru, untangling our hardware and continues this year as a new ADHD (it was called ADD of doing. goes on in your car. After this www.techmommy.com software problems with remarkable ease. Thank goodness for techmommy. school garden takes shape. until 1987) is a serious psycho- What it is not? first step, help the child to build Serving the Bay Area’s Technology We would be lost without her!” Planting and harvesting are – Dan & Colleen, Moraga logical disorder for those that The researchers in the field that personal assistant. Instead of Needs Since 1985 planned for spring 2009. have it and their families. Al- are in agreement now that you telling the kids how and what to though we often use terms in our cannot make a person ADHD do, get up off the couch and go Advertising conversation like ‘I was a little with video games, television, and help them with the when and Deadlines Approaching, Free ADD this morning,’ kids and cell phones. I am not saying these where of getting things done. adults who are diagnosed with don’t have their own affects on I worked with a child with workshop reveals 7 ways to slash college costs this disorder are at risk for seri- our kids and our culture, they do, ADHD who stopped doing her rinda –A free students are eligible for. The will be held at the Orinda ous issues in school and life. but not in creating ADHD. homework because even when Oworkshop is being held class will include such topics Community Center Garden At its core, ADHD is a dis- So what do you do about it? she did get it done, she lost it, for- for the parents of high school as how to double or triple Room located at 26 Orinda order of the executive function- ADHD needs to be diag- got to turn it in, or turned it in to freshman, sophomores, your eligibility for free grant Way in Orinda starting at ing parts of the brain: the brain’s nosed by a licensed medical pro- the wrong teacher. We want to juniors, and seniors who money, the secret to sending 6:30pm and concluding at personal assistant. In small chil- fessional and not a teacher or help kids avoid getting to the dren their motor area of their aunt or grandparent. Start with point of giving up. We can help will be college bound, at the your child to a private 7:30pm. The workshop is brain develops early and the per- your pediatrician and go from these children by helping them Orinda Community Center. school for less than the cost being taught by Bay College sonal assistant in their brain de- there. A general rule about treat- learn to follow through and stop The workshop will focus on of a junior college, how to Planners, the nation’s velops more slowly. So you have ments is to check things out thor- lecturing them on the morality of little-known ways of getting save $10,000.00 to leading experts on paying for more movement with less plan- oughly and get more than one not following through. Remem- money for college, even if $25,000.00 your first year in college. Seating at the ning. These children are less opinion. In reference to ADHD ber they know what you are your earnings are in the 6 school, and the single biggest location is free, but limited imhibited, Making them more there have been decades of con- going to tell them, they just seem figure range, or the benefit mistake that 9 out of 10 by the size of the room. To likely to climb to the top of the troversy about the cause, nature, not to be able to get it done. And students with great grades parents make when planning reserve a seat, call 877-924- bookcase or do other dangerous and treatment of the disorder none of us wants to be trapped in enjoy, ranging from merit for college. 3726 or register on line at things without thinking twice. even among the researchers. that kitchen with the difficult based aid to private grants The workshop date is www.baycollegeplanners.com. They are also more impulsive, The common treatments fall into question of what in the world are and school awards not all Thursday January 15 and making them more likely to get the three common categories bio- you doing in here? out of their seats in class. These logical, psychological, and so- children have deficits in working cial; many studies indicate using memory. This is the memory we factors from each together results www.drharoldhoyle.com use to get things done. in the best outcomes. Biological Harold can be contacted by Imagine for a moment that treatments include changes in phone or email: 510-219- you end up in the kitchen looking diet and medication in the form 8660 [email protected] around thinking, ‘what am I of stimulants, of which there are

or the third year in a row, the Children's Chorus from The Meher Schools in Lafayette delighted holiday shop- Fpers with two spirited concerts at Broadway Plaza in downtown Walnut Creek. Selections reflected the true spirit of the season—love and sharing. The Chorus has 34 members in grades 2-5 and is directed by Terry Hogan Johnson. Photo submitted by Ellen Evans Wednesday, January 7, 2009 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 13 Acalanes High School • Bentley School • Burton Valley • Camino Lafayette Elementary • Los Perales • Miramonte • Orinda Academy Pablo Campolindo • Contra Costa Jewish Day School • Del Rey Orinda Intermediate • Saklan Valley School • Sleepy Hollow Donald L. Rheem • Glorietta • Happy Valley • Joaquin Moraga Lamorinda Schools Springhill • Stanley Middle • St. Perpetua School • Wagner Ranch Paying for College in Hard Economic Times By Elizabeth LaScala, Ph.D. The Hearst Art Gallery he economic downturn is PIN at www.pin.ed.gov. Save CSS (College Scholar- more public schools in the mix. of Saint Mary’s College presents Tadding stress to what is al- these pin numbers as you will ship Service) PROFILE is a fi- This is a sound strategy. ready an anxious time for sen- need them each year you are nancial aid form that some • Undoubtedly, most fami- Exhibits & Events Jan. 17 - Apr. 5 iors applying to college. Since in college to apply for financial private colleges require. PRO- lies will review offers of admis- stress often leads to procrastina- aid. Next, complete a FAFSA FILE asks additional questions sion, financial aid packages and Bert Monroy, Master Artist Tribute VIII: tion, I urge you to move quickly online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. in order to get a more detailed their own resources with great and meet all financial aid dead- Parents and students should try picture of family finances. Stu- care. Families with more eco- A Digital Artist Paints With Light lines. Most aid is distributed on to complete their income taxes dents register online for the nomic strife, such as job loss, a first come first serve basis, so and file a FAFSA as close as PROFILE service, then a cus- will likely turn to public early is better. Let’s start with possible to February 1. If this is tomized PROFILE form is com- schools; this includes commu- some basics. impossible, use estimated in- pleted online and submitted to a nity colleges located closer to Financial aid is any grant, come to complete the FAFSA. central processor. The financial home. scholarship, loan, or paid em- You will need to update these es- information is then sent to col- • Continue to assess colleges ployment offered to help you timates with actual income once leges listed in your account. on the basis of fit—how well the meet college expenses. Finan- your tax returns are completed. Register for PROFILE online at academic and social climate cial aid is provided by various Be certain to answer all www.collegeboard.com as soon matches your interests and sources such as federal and state questions and list the colleges as you know what schools you needs. This investment will agencies, colleges, foundations you are considering. You should will apply to. After registering shape your future for many and corporations. Grants are have already filed applications to for PROFILE, you will receive years to come. Shopping for a funds that are not repaid; loans these schools. However, do not a personalized PROFILE form bargain at the expense of fit may must be repaid. Student loan in- wait until you receive responses to submit online, usually by be more costly in the long run. terest rates and repayment terms regarding admission, or all avail- February 1st. On a positive note, this is a vary by program. Employment able aid may be gone. “Financial Note: Some colleges re- great time to get educated about (work-study) is based on an Aid Award Letters” are only sent quire additional forms. Consult financial aid. Financial aid • Renowned Photoshop artist and teacher hourly rate for work performed. to admitted students. each college’s instructions to should never be an afterthought. A Financial Aid Package is a Be sure to save a copy of verify the forms required and As you become more ac- • Clients include Apple, Adobe, Disney, combination of different types your FAFSA. After you submit deadlines. quainted with the process, you of aid combined to meet your fi- it, you will be given a confirma- A few thoughts are impor- will be better positioned to take Industrial Light & Magic nancial need. tion number. Save this as well. tant to bear in mind for the Class advantage of the aid that is • 50 digitally created artworks on view Know the forms. FAFSA Watch for your SAR (Student of 2009. available. As the economy im- stands for Free Application Aid Report) to arrive a few • Many private school appli- proves, this will prove to be an for Federal Student Aid. The weeks later. Review the SAR cation deadlines are in mid-Jan- asset that helps you better man- federal government uses it to de- and make corrections and up- uary, so it is too early to say how age the costs of your college ed- termine eligibility for financial dates if needed. the tough financial climate will ucation. aid (including grants, scholar- The California priority affect where students apply, Elizabeth LaScala, Ph.D. is a certi- ships, work-study, loans, etc.). deadline is March 2. The dead- what aid will be offered and fied college advisor who lives and All colleges require this form, lines for your state or schools where students will ultimately works in Lafayette. Dr. LaScala and it is best to file the FAFSA may be different and you may choose to enroll. draws on 20 years of higher edu- cation experience to help guide online. be required to complete addi- • Public colleges face a state and support the college admis- To start the financial aid tional forms (for example, Cal budget crisis and private institu- sions process for students and process and file online you must Grant GPA Verification form for tions face declines in income their families. She has 3 chil- get a PIN which allows you to California students). Make sure from endowments and reduced dren—one a graduate of Cal Poly sign electronically. You will to check deadlines for specific research funding. As a result, (San Luis Obispo), one a sopho- need two PIN numbers (one for colleges you are applying to in many counselors report that stu- more at MIT and the youngest, a junior in high school. Contact Dr. you and one for your addition to noting state dead- dents are applying to more LaScala at (925) 891-4491 or parent/guardian). Apply for a lines. schools than usual and having [email protected]. PTA Starts New Year with Two Bangs Meet the Artist Sunday, Jan. 18, 2 p.m. By Jean Follmer Download Education Advocacy Day tive experts and meet with our local the Las Trampas website at Photoshop Demonstration, Soda Center, SMC is Coming Up legislators and school leaders.” The www.lastrampaspta.org/dec08_let- The 29th annual Education cost of the trip is $65 and includes ters.html to download, print and “Your” Reception following Advocacy bus trip to Sacramento transportation and lunch. Attendees sign letters to the California legis- is scheduled to take place Wednes- will hear moderated discussions on lators regarding the proposed mid- story from day, February 18, 2009. The event the state budget and education re- year budget cuts. Exhibition Hours: Wednesdays - Sundays, 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. is sponsored by the San Ramon form basics and have the opportu- Some Council Members printed www. Gallery Admission: $3 adult; children free; Gallery members free Valley, Las Trampas Creek, Liver- nity to participate in breakout and passed them out in the carpool lamorindaweekly.com more Valley and Alameda Parent sessions with Superintendents and lines since families were focused www.hearstartgallery.org Teacher Association Councils. The School Board members. on the pending break. “The holi- 925.631.4379 Acalanes, Lafayette, Moraga and At press time, Las Trampas days is what’s putting a kink in Orinda School Districts are all rep- Creek Council Co-Chair Sarah this,” said Council Member Karen resented by the Las Trampas Creek Butler said the presence of Assem- Guthrie. The Council said it’s not Council of PTAs and each school bly Members Joan Buchanan and too late to turn them in before the now! Fashion Design & has its own Council Member. Sandré Swanson and Senators delivery dates. Over 200 people boarded buses to Mark DeSaulnier and Lori Han- The letters urge the legislators “to attend the event in 2008. Given the cock were already confirmed. The look at a more balanced approach fashion studio Sewing Classes current budget crisis, the Council registration form is available at the to dealing with the budget deficit, Classes Starting Now is hopeful that even more people Las Trampas PTA website at including additional revenues such Have fun and express your creativity will make the trip to Sacramento www.lastrampaspta.org/Legisla- as reinstating the Vehicle License by learning to design and make your this year. tion.html. Fee,” and stress that the proposed own fashions! 7 Weekly classes. “The point is we wanted to Letter Writing Campaign – $2.5 billion mid-year cut to educa- make this trip a bit more educa- There is Still Time tion is unacceptable and will be Kids, Teens, Adults Day, Evening, Afterschool, Saturday tional to get more involved in ad- The Las Trampas Creek nearly impossible for the districts vocacy and to build more of a Council of PTAs plans to hand de- to digest. Letters can be turned into Adults: Create a modern heirloom commoradory,” said Council liver thousands of letters to the leg- district offices or faxed directly to memory quilt - our classes meet once a month for 2 hours. Member Karen Guthrie. The Las islators in Sacramento late this the legislators. Fax numbers are

Trampas Creek Council says, “It’s week and early next week. included in the letters. For more information drop-in, call, or an effective way to send a powerful Before the winter break, parents in The Council delivered over 7,000 visit: www.sewnow.com message to our lawmakers. You’ll the Lamorinda community schools letters to California legislators in experience briefings with legisla- were strongly encouraged to visit 2007. Open Studio Time - Workshops - Custom Embroidery - Brother Sewing Machines - Birthday Parties - Girl Scouts sewnow! 960 Moraga Rd., Lafayette [1 block S of Mt. Diablo] (925) 283-7396 [email protected]

Admissions Contact: 925-376-7900 x16 or [email protected]

PRESCHOOL THROUGH 8TH GRADE Engaging Minds

Inspiring Creativity DiscoverADMISSIONS Saklan: INFORMATION Academics,Limited Openings Enrichment for 2008-09 & Community Enriching Lives 2009-2010WEEKLY TOURS APPLICATION - 8:30am - 10:00am DEADLINEOctober 3, 10, IS 17, JANUARY November 30, 21 2009 November 7 - Middle School Tour GROUPNovember TOURS 14 - Kindergarten - 8:30 - 10:00am Tour Please register online at www.saklan.org Friday, January 9th OPENFriday, HOUSE January 16th Sunday,Friday, November January 23rd 9, 2008, 2 - 4 pm Parents & students are both welcome to attend. Please RSVP to Admissions or register online Admissions Contact: Personal925-376-7900 tours will x16 also or be scheduled 5th Grade educational trip celebration of Girl Scout Troop 2742 and Gold Award Ceremony was held on Sunday, December 21, 2008 Marin Headlands, 2008 [email protected] your convenience Aat the Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church. Members attending the celebration, (from left to right): Emma Sarconi, Shannon Pegnim, Valerie Lew, Caroline Godfrey, Melissa Wilcox, Gina Rieser, Alexandra Kuller and RSVP at www.saklan.org, or call at 925-376-7900 Laura Terril. Not pictured: Mackenzie Gerringer, Kristen Phillips and Bridget Rochios. | | | Photo submitted 925.376.7900 www.saklan.org 1678 School Street Moraga, CA 94556 Page: 14 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009 LOVABLE PET-SITTING one • In the Back Y Cats, Dogs, Birds, Fish FREE Download visit * “Your” story DIGGING DEEP WITH CYNTHIA BRIAN-S Play-Time - Walks - Feeding Tender-Care - House-Sitting - References from www. "There are no limitations to the mind except those we acknowledge; 15 Years Experience lamorindaweekly both poverty and riches are the offspring of thought." Lamorinda .com Napoleon Hill Linda Kucma it all off, a note was attached to one of the bushes. The note was an announcement that it had been a * (925) 746-4649 restrictions apply great year for the Magi, so they had decided to share their wealth with us! POISONOUS PLANTS We couldn’t wait to go to school to tell our Mona S. Miller, DVM teachers and all our friends about these extraordi- doesn’t affect dogs) is lily-in- nary gifts. Surely others had experienced their de- duced kidney failure. The lights! But no one else had. leaves and blooms of Easter, In fact, our ingenious parents had created the il- lusion solely for us with used costume jewelry from tiger, day and other Asiatic a Goodwill store, and horse manure from our very hybrid lilies are the causative own barn. My dad had brought out the horses to plants. This is also very seri- make the hoof prints, and naturally, we just knew ous, as for mushroom toxicity, they were camel prints. The nuns at school recall our and can certainly cause death. wide-eyed awe when we retold the tale, and chose Symptoms include vomiting to keep our parents’ secret. When we told the other (within 1-24 hours after in- Cynthia Brian children, we were met with disappointed looks. To gestion, with progressive de- he sun was shining brightly and the jonquils our dismay, none of them had encountered such pression, inappetance and Twere blooming that January winter day so riches on the branches of their trees. We immediately weakness. Kidney failure will many years ago when my brothers, sisters, and I shared our booty. start to occur within 12-36 awoke to find strands of gleaming jewelry strung January, the month of winter sleep, offers gar- Easter Lily istockphoto.com hours. This is potentially everywhere on the bushes and vines around the deners the opportunity to dream, to plan, and to ndoor holiday plants and clude poinsettia, holly, mistle- treatable, with aggressive hos- house. Barefoot, we ran outside, not believing our imagine. There is not much work to be done in our Iwinter/spring seasonal bulb toe and most winter-planted pitalization, intravenous flu- eyes. They had come. The Kings had arrived. yards, but we can still begin to chart the days ahead planting can sometimes pose bulbs (tulip, daffodil, iris and ids and other support. The The holiday was “Twelfth Night” or “Three so that we’ll be able to share the bounty from our ef- health threats to our dogs and amaryllis). Just a note about prognosis for recovery is poor Wise Kings,” celebrated on January 6, which is ex- forts. Curl up with a cup of tea brewed from your cats. poinsettia – while it definitely if treatment is started more actly twelve days after Christmas. The celebration home grown Meyer lemon and spearmint, grab your In some instances, a di- can cause illness, the toxic ef- than 18 hours after ingestion. was created to honor the Magi, who followed the favorite seed catalogues or garden books, and dis- agnosis is easy, when the pet fects have generally been Note: if you are sending Star of Bethlehem to visit Baby Jesus over two thou- cover new water conserving cultivars for the year. has been observed to chew on overstated. flowers to a friend who has a sand years ago. Because we are Swiss-Italian and Plan patio hardscapes incorporating rocks, bricks, and cobbles instead of flower beds. Prune a few bud- or ingest part of the plant, or Mushroom ingestion and cat, it might be wise to ask the lived in the country, Mom and Dad always told us it ding branches from your peach or crab apple tree, there is obvious plant material toxicity is one of the most florist to eliminate any lilies was easier for the Three Wise Kings to park their put them in a vase and watch their blossoms unfurl. in vomitus, or the plant pot common plant poisons seen in from the bouquet. camels outside our house than a house in the city. We had no reason not to believe them. For a scent filled room of sweetness, cut a bouquet has been disrupted. Factors dogs. Different species of Two excellent on-line re- We loved Three Wise Kings Day because the of narcissus to place by your bedside for a deeper that help determine what wild mushrooms cause differ- sources regarding poisonous Magi made us feel special. No one else in our school tranquil rest. For kindness to our fine-feathered measures your veterinarian ent symptoms; most common plants (and other animal care seemed to receive a nightfall visitation from these friends, design a “Bird Branch” on a deciduous tree would take include the type of is the toxic effect on the liver information) are Veterinary- Middle Eastern monarchs. And though legend pro- or an old stump, hanging feeders and nests for those plant ingested, when it was by Amanita species. Signs in- Partner.com and ASPCA.org. claims the Three Kings brought Jesus gold, frankin- cold winter nights. eaten and what the current clude drooling, vomit and di- As with any issue relating to cense, and myrrh, we were very pleased to receive a January offers us the chance for a new begin- signs of illness are. Your vet arrhea, and occasionally your pet’s medical care, it is piece of fruit, a bit of candy, and about twenty-five ning. To your list of resolutions, include spending might recommend inducing neurologic weakness. This best to call your veterinarian cents in coins from them each year. more time in nature drinking in the beauty all around vomiting and giving a toxin- can be a very serious problem when questions arise about But this year was different. They had actually us. Decide to compost, recycle, collect rainwater for binding agent, such as acti- that can cause death. Treat- what your dog or cat may brought us jewels and riches beyond our wildest watering, and grow your own organic vegetables, vated charcoal, to decrease ment is aggressive supportive have eaten. dreams. I vividly remember the sensation of utter de- herbs, and fruits. Exercise your body, mind, and soul by digging deep. As our portfolios dwindle, we can absorption. Other therapy is care with hospitalization, in- Dr. Mona S. Miller lives in light when we spotted the shimmering trinkets hang- supportive care for the symp- travenous fluids, anti-nausea Lafayette with her 4 year old ing from the trees! I will never forget the utter thrill be grateful for what we already have. Being con- toms, usually involving flu- and anti-oxidant medication, son, yellow Labrador Retriever of knowing that our landscape was adorned with nected with the earth reminds us that despite the tur- ids, stomach protectants and and liver and kidney blood- and grey cat. She has worked at valuable ornaments from a land far far away. bulent economy, it is up to us to survive and thrive. anti-nausea medication. work monitoring. The sooner Four Seasons Animal Hospital in “We’re rich, we’re rich!” My siblings shouted. Follow your star. My wish for you is to shine in Lafayette since moving here in Although we loved the fruit the Magi left us, seeing 2009. May you receive the magical gifts of the Magi Most of the winter holi- treatment is started, the better 2001. She attended Cal as an day plants cause simple gas- the chances for full recovery. the glimmering baubles adorning our very own vines every day-the love of family and friends, health for undergrad, and received her your children, the warmth of the home, the peace of trointestinal irritation, Mushroom ingestion is con- DVM from U.C. Davis. She can be was quite magnificent. To solidify the illusion, we the garden, and work you love. These are the true resulting in drooling, loss of sidered an emergency. reached at Four Seasons, found camels’ hoof prints and a good amount of shimmering jewels of the season. appetite, nausea, vomiting A plant toxicity found in 938-7700, or by email to camel dung scattered throughout the garden! To top [email protected]. and diarrhea. These plants in- cats only (interesting that it

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Design & Install with just one call. Wet and cold, that is what the month of January brings to mind. Although it may be gray and dismal out- side, we still have a few errands in our gardens. The dormant season is nearing its end, but freezes and frost 925-254-4797 can still do damage. Give your houseplants a treat and take them outside for a shower. Plan for spring by Free Consultations looking through mail order catalogs. And don't forget to prune to encourage spring growth. Serving the Lamorinda Area for 18 years. Bonded – Licensed & Insured Lic. #702845 • CARE for the potted plants you received as gifts of the holiday. Remove wrapping to allow for good drainage. Trim spent blossoms, water and fertilize regularly. • LIVING Christmas tree, need to be moved outdoors. Keep them in a large container or transplant into your landscape remembering to determine the placement carefully as Bay Area they will grow into very large trees. • BARE ROOT roses are readily available in garden centers now. Soak in water for a day before planting. Make sure to cut off broken roots. Plant the bud union 3 inches above Drainage, the ground. It is best to buy your roses at your favorite local nursery for better quality while establishing valuable relationships. • PLANT all bare root fruit trees, perennials, berries and vines. They cost less and will “For All Your adapt quickly to their new home. Inc. Drainage Needs” • PRUNE your beds of roses now to ensure healthy bigger blooms. Remove any diseased parts which would infect the new growth and do not put in the compost pile. • SHARE rose canes with friends and neighbors. By dipping the stems into a growth • French Drains solution, you can grow new rose bushes at no cost to you. Experiment. It’s fun to share. • MULCH your beds with three inches of organic matter to protect from freezes, provide better drainage while amending the soil. • Underfloor Drains • DECIDUOUS fruit trees, bushes, flowering shrubs, and cane berries need pruning now. Make sure you are not cutting off the buds for the new fruit. • Downspout Systems • SPRAY your second application of a dormant spray to kill the many overwintering insects and diseases after you have pruned. • Subdrain Systems • BRIGHTEN your landscape by planting primroses, snapdragon, stock, sweet peas, violas, cineraria and pansies which bring exciting color to the grey landscape. Add shimmer to home environment your home by planting in pots for the porch. • Sump Pumps • CUT budding branches from fruit trees to place in a vase to watch the petals open. Add a few drops of bleach to the water to prolong the blooms. A few sprigs of narcissus provide • Retaining Walls perfume an entire room. • PROTECT LAWNS Rake leaves and litter to prevent grass from smothering. or • FEED the birds! With winter rains and cold, the birds need human help to maintain their friends body weight. • TRANSPLANT all those plants and shrubs that you want moved somewhere else safely. • REPAIR irrigation systems and add drip to your spring schedule. • REST. Winter is the time of hibernation and sleep. Just as our plants go dormant, we need to give ourselves a break to rejuvenate.

Our gardens can probably expect another season of drought so use the downtime of January to prepare. Happy New Year!

Garden Club Meetings Bonnie Brusseau from Orchard Nursery will speak on Gary Bogue, author and columnist will speak about wildlife "Pruning Simplified for Roses and Fruit Trees." Moraga Gar- and the environment at the Montelindo Garden Club Meeting General Engineering Contractor den Club on Thursday, January 15, 9:30 am at the.Holy Trin- on Friday, January 16th, 9:30am at the Orinda Community ity Cultural Center, 1700 School St., Moraga. For membership Church, #10 Irwin Way in Orinda. Speaker at 10:30. The free Locally owned and Operated call Pat 925-376-4675. meeting welcomes guests. www.montelindogarden.com or Contractor LIC # 762208 email [email protected]. 925•377•9209 Please submit events to: visit our website [email protected] www.bayareadrainage.com Page: 16 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009 • Dining • Dining • Dining • Dining • To Donut or Not Yogurt Pecan Coffee Cake By Susie Iventosch

Cake ½ cup margarine or butter, softened 1½ cups granulated sugar 3 eggs From left, Cheng Ngauv, Julie Vilaysak Ngauv and John Hopper Photos Susie Iventosch 1½ teaspoons vanilla ’m not one to gorge on donuts, so Cheng says there are several Lafayette for 30 years before he re- 3 cups all-purpose flour Iwhen I dropped in to check out secrets to making good donuts. Be- located to Rossmoor. Johnny’s Donuts in Lafayette, I did- side a little loving care, these in- “I used to make the hand- 1½ teaspoons baking powder n’t expect to walk away with a box clude how long the dough is painted signs for the shop,” he 1½ teaspoons baking soda full of delicious buttermilk bars, allowed to rise and then how long noted. “I still come in three to four ¼ teaspoon salt chocolate old-fashioned, glazed and the donuts proof before baking. times a week to get a donut and cof- 1½ cups plain low-fat yogurt coconut topped breakfast treats. “The oil temperature is very fee. They have the best donuts any- Johnny’s makes amazing donuts important,” he said. “It must be 375 where.” and despite having been in the same degrees. And the best kind of oil is For the regular men’s break- In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a larger bowl, cream butter location for 30 years, I’d never been soybean oil.” fast meeting at his church, Hopper (or margarine) and sugar with electric beater. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each (this is really there until early December. He also added that for cream always brings Johnny’s donuts important for this recipe.) Blend in vanilla. Add flour mixture alternately with yogurt, beginning and end- Seng Vilaysak is the owner of filled or jelly filled donuts, he makes when it’s his turn to provide break- ing with dries. Mix well. See assembly below. the donut shop, but since he has two them to order so they don’t get fast goodies. other locations, his sister and soggy sitting on the shelf. “The group always knows Cinnamon-Pecan Filling brother-in-law, Julie Vilaysak John Hopper (unrelated to the they’re from Johnny’s because they Ngauv and Cheng Ngauv, have op- man who originally founded are the best donuts around,” he said. 1 cup brown sugar erated the Lafayette store for the Johnny’s Donuts before Seng pur- Since I have no idea how to ¼ cup granulated sugar past 21 years. chased the company) lived in make donuts, and if I tried they’d ¾ cup coarsely chopped toasted pecans probably be hard as bricks and pale ½ teaspoon cinnamon in comparison to Johnny’s, there is Mix well. no donut recipe to worry about this week! Nope, this time you’ll have to run down to Johnny’s and pick up To Assemble Coffee Cake a donut or two, because they are Grease either a 10-inch tube pan or 10-inch Bundt pan with cooking spray. Sprinkle ¼ of the filling on the wonderful. And, if you feel like bak- bottom of pan. Spread 1/3 of the cake batter over filling, taking care not to mix with topping. Repeat process ing, here is my rendition of the good two times, ending with final ¼ filling. Bake in 350-degree oven for 45 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted old sour cream coffee cake, made in center of coffee cake comes out clean. Cool in pan and when cool, turn out upside down onto plate. Store with yogurt instead of sour cream. in airtight container until ready to use. This way, you can save a few calo- ries for indulging at Johnny’s! Johnny’s Donuts These recipes are available on our web site. 3629 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Go to: www.lamorindaweekly.com Lafayette, 925/283-9352 Susie can be reached at [email protected]

Early Bird Dinner 5-6pm Buy updated menu! Get a free entree with the purchase ONE of another entree of equal or greater value. $9.95 King of Philly and (Maximum value is $8.95 lunch & $14.95 dinner.)* Blackened Salmon or the second King of Pork Schnitzel Philly is or Petar's is open for $ lunch Monday 925- Chicken Parmagiana 3.00 off through Saturday or from 11:30 to 4:00 284-7117 and open for Sautéed Veal Marsala Dine in or Take Out! dinner nightly. or CAUTION: MAY BE HABIT FORMING Smoked Salmon Ravioli The Cheese Steak Shop The Cheese Steak Shop Petar's Restaurant is located in the heart 1419 Moraga Way, Moraga Shopping Center 3455 Mt Diablo Blvd. 3110 Crow Canyon Pl. of Lafayette at 32 Lafayette Circle. 925-376-3832 - www.terzettocuisine.com * Regular menu only, not valid with daily board specials, early dinner menu or with any other specials or promotions. Lafayette • 925-283-1234 San Ramon • 925-242-1112 (soup & salad sides are not considered entrees) - Exp. Feb., 28, 2008 - Mon: 7am - 2pm; Tues-Sun: 7am - 8:30pm Owned and Operated by Gerry Henkel and Gary Hunt

Village Inn Café 290 Village Square, Ori 254-6080 La Cocina Mexicana 23 Orinda Way, Ori 258-9987 LAMORINDA’s Restaurants Continental Mucho wraps 1375-B Moraga Way, Mor 377-1203 ••• updated November 26, 2008 ••• Petar’s Restaurant 32 Lafayette Cir, Laf 284-7117 Baja Fresh Mexican Grill 3596 Mt. Diable Blvd, Laf 283-8740 Vino Restaurant 3531 Plaza Way, Laf 284-1330 Celia’s Restaurant 3666 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-8288 American Duck Club Restaurant 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-7108 El Balazo 3518D Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-8700 Bistro 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-7108 French Maya Mexican Grill 74 Moraga Way, Ori 258-9049 Chow Restaurant 53 Lafayette Cir, Laf 962-2469 Chevalier Restaurant 960 Moraga Road, Laf 385-0793 Numero Uno Taqueria 3616 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-1333 Quiznos 3651 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 962-0200 Hawaiian Grill Pizza Ranch House 1012 School St, Mor 376-5127 Lava Pit 2 Theatre Square, St. 142, Ori 253-1338 Mountain Mike’s Pizza 3614 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-6363 Terzetto Cuisine 1419 Moraga Way, Mor 376-3832 Indian Mountain Mike’s Pizza 504 Center St, Mor 377-6453 The Cheese Steak Shop 3455 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-1234 India Palace 3740 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-5700 Pennini’s 1375 Moraga Rd, Mor 376-1515 BBQ Swad Indian Cuisine 3602 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 962-9575 Round Table Pizza 361 Rheem Blvd, Mor 376-1411 Bo’s Barbecue 3422 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-7133 Italian Round Table Pizza 3637 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-0404 Burger Joint Giardino 3406 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-3869 Village Pizza 19 Orinda Way # Ab, Ori 254-1200 Flippers 960 Moraga Rd, Laf 284-1567 Knoxx Restarant, Lounge 3576 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-5225 Zamboni’s Pizza 1 Camino Sobrante # 4, Ori 254-2800 Nation’s Giant Hamburgers 400 Park, Mor 376-8888 La Finestra Ristorante 100 Lafayette Cir, St. 101, Laf 284-5282 Sandwiches/Deli Nation’s Giant Hamburgers 76 Moraga Way, Ori 254-8888 La Piazza 15 Moraga Way, Ori 253-9191 Bianca’s Deli 1480 Moraga Rd # A, Mor 376-4400 Café Mangia Ristorante Pizzeria 975 Moraga Rd, Laf 284-3081 Europa Hofbrau Deli & Pub 64 Moraga Way , Ori 254-7202 Express Cafe 3732 Mt. Diablo Blvd # 170, Laf 283-7170 Michael’s 1375 Moraga Way, Mor 376-4300 Gourmet Bistro Café 484 Center St, Mor 376-1551 Ferrari- Lucca Delicatessens 23 Lafayette Cir, Laf 299-8040 Mondello’s 337 Rheem Blvd, Mor 376-2533 Kasper’s Hot Dogs 103 Moraga Way, Ori 253-0766 Geppetto’s caffe 87 Orinda Way, Ori 253-9894 Pizza Antica 3600 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-0500 Noah’s Bagels 3518 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-0716 Rising Loafer 3643 Mt. Diablo Blvd Ste B, Laf 284-8816 Postino 3565 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-8700 Orinda Deli 19 F Orinda Way, Ori 254-1990 Susan Foord Catering & Cafe 965 Mt. View Drive, Laf 299-2469 Ristorante Amoroma 360 Park St, Mor 377-7662 Subway 396 Park St., Mor 376-2959 California Cuisine Japanese Subway 3322 Mt. Diablo Blvd #B, Laf 284-2627 Gigi’s 1005 Brown St., Laf 962-0882 Asia Palace Sushi Bar 1460 B Moraga Rd, Mor 376-0809 Subway Theatre Square, Ori 258-0470 Metro Lafayette 3524 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-4422 Blue Ginko 3518-A Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 962-9020 Seafood Shelby’s 2 Theatre Sq, Ori 254-9687 Kane Sushi 3474 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-9709 Yankee Pier 3593 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-4100 Chinese Niwa Restaurant 1 Camino Sobrante # 6, Ori 254-1606 Singaporean/Malaysian Asia Palace Restaurant 1460 B Moraga Rd, Mor 376-0809 Serika Restaurant 2 Theatre Sq # 118, Ori 254-7088 Kopitiam 3647 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-1653 Chef Chao Restaurant 343 Rheem Blvd, Mor 376-1740 Tamami’s Japanese Restaurant 356 Park St, Mor 376-2872 Steak China Moon Restaurant 380 Park St, Mor 376-1828 Yu Sushi 19 Moraga Way, Ori 253-8399 Casa Orinda 20 Bryant Way, Ori 254-2981 The Great Wall Restaurant 3500 Golden Gate Way, Laf 284-3500 Jazz Dinner Club Tea Hsiangs Mandarin Cuisine 1 Orinda Way # 1, Ori 253-9852 Joe’s of Lafayette 3707 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Laf 299-8807 Patesserie Lafayette 71 Lafayette Cir, Laf 283-2226 Lily’s House 3555 Mt. Diablo Blvd #A, Laf 284-7569 The Orinda House 65 Moraga Way, Ori 258-4445 Tea Party by Appointment 107 Orinda Way, Ori 254-2206 Mandarin Flower 581 Moraga Rd, Mor 376-7839 Mediterranean Thai Panda Express 3608 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 962-0288 Petra Café 2 Theatre Sq # 105, Ori 254-5290 Amarin Thai Cuisine 3555 Mt. Diablo Blvd # B, Laf 283-8883 Szechwan Chinese Restaurant 79 Orinda Way, Ori 254-2020 Oasis Café 3594 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-8822 Baan Thai 99 Orinda Way, Ori 253-0989 Uncle Yu’s Szechuan 999 Oak Hill Rd, Laf 283-1688 Turquoise Mediterranean Grill 70 Moraga Way, Ori 253-2004 Royal Siam 512 Center Street, Mor 377-0420 Yan’s Restaurant 3444 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 284-2228 Mexican Siam Orchid 23 Orinda Way # F, Ori 253-1975 Coffee Shop 360 Gourmet Burrito 3655 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 299-1270 Vietnamese Millie’s Kitchen 1018 Oak Hill Rd #A, Laf 283-2397 El Charro Mexican Dining 3339 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-2345 Little Hearty Noodle, Pho & Pasta 578 Center Street, Mor 376-7600 Squirrel’s Coffee Shop 998 Moraga Rd, Laf 284-7830 El Jaro Mexican Cafe 3563 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Laf 283-6639 The Lamorinda Weekly (LW) Restaurant Guide is not paid advertising; our intent is to provide a useful reference guide. We hope that we have included all Lamorinda restaurants on this page, except those that told us they did not wish to be listed. LW is not liable for errors or omissions. In the event that we have inadvertently printed misinformation or excluded a restaurant please let us know ([email protected]) so that we may correct our list for the next issue. Wednesday, January 7, 2009 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 17 Local Couples Find Unique Ways to Make Encore Weddings Special By Jennifer Wake Love, Lamorinda Style

ditions, substituting the throwing of “It worked out well. We also the bouquet or garter belt for a spe- needed to have most of the food cial toast, or exchanging personal- passed on trays due to a limited seat- ized vows. “You can create your ing area,” Karen says. own tradition, with all of your chil- According to I Do Take Two, dren walking beside you and your most encore wedding challenges in- groom and standing with you at the clude deciding on the guest list, altar,” the Web site notes. “You’re sticking to a budget, and finding bound only by your imagination.” ways to include children from a pre- When Karen Lennox and vious marriage in the celebration. Svend Ryge got married at the Fortunately, Chris and Na- Newlyweds Svend Ryge and Karen Lennox enjoy a moment together at Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian talie say they could see that their their garden reception Photo Lynds Photography Church last August, they created a three children were blended long ith nearly 60 percent of (She said yes.) They were married theme for the celebration: “Fami- before the official ceremony oc- Wmen and more than 40 per- one year ago on New Year’s Eve at lies Intertwining.” curred. “We made conscious effort cent of women remarrying, second the Veteran’s Memorial Building in Their children from previous on a regular basis to treat them all Hacienda de las Flores marriages – or encore weddings – Lafayette. marriages (two each), as well as equally and respect their feelings have become more common, of- With two sons and one siblings and best friends, lit the about the change.” fering couples a unique opportu- daughter from prior marriages, they church candles, ushered guests, So what’s their advice for nity to celebrate their commitment thought about trying to incorporate sang, read scripture, and stood up encore wedding couples? to each other and to their new their children into the event, and did to declare their support for the new “Laugh . . . a lot!” blended families. so in very minor ways, but Natalie family unit. As with Karen and Svend, In 1980, Lafayette natives says they wanted to keep it simple. “During the ceremony we the Lanes say the ceremony was Natalie and Chris Lane barely “As hard as it is, we tried not showed a five minute slide show set simply a meeting place where they knew each other at Stanley Middle to fall into the mindset that we need to music that presented our individ- could show everyone at once how School, and after graduating from to have all the things that go into the ual families growing up and our happy they were and how confi- Acalanes High School, they didn’t traditional wedding ceremony,” Na- new family intertwined,” Karen dent and relaxed they were about meet again until 20 years later at a talie says. “We began to realize that says. “We received many com- joining not only their lives, but high school reunion committee the ‘wedding of our dreams’ didn't ments that it was a touching and their children's lives and their im- meeting. have anything to do with the color wonderful ceremony.” mediate families as well. “Several months after the re- of the napkins. It was all about us Much like the Lanes, Karen “What made our marriage so Photo by www.gr8expressions.com union, Chris asked me to have din- being able to profess our love and and Svend wanted to invite as many special,” says Natalie, “was the fact Where elegance and history meet to ner with him,” Natalie said. “We ate commitment for each other.” people as could they could. Two- that we both knew without any at a local restaurant, talked without According to “I Do Take hundred attended Karen and doubt that we had finally found a add a special touch to your event. those uncomfortable pauses and had Two.com” – a second wedding on- Svend’s wedding, and the challenge person with whom we could each a wonderful evening.” line resource – more couples ven- then became finding parking for respect and accept for the person Weddings • Meetings • Conferences Just over two months later, turing down the aisle for an encore 100 cars on their street for their they are.” Chris asked Natalie to marry him. wedding are creating their own tra- backyard garden reception. Tranquil and secluded, the Hacienda is one of the prettiest garden environments for events in the East Bay.

2100 Donald Drive, Moraga Tel.: 925-888-7045 www.moraga.ca.us jtÜx Wxá|zÇá Y|Çx ]xãxÄÜç á|Çvx DLJJ • Custom Designed Jewelry • Remodel Heirloom Jewelry • Expert Repair • Appraisals itÄtÇà|ÇxËá Wtç • Pearls Restrung Families intertwined: Svend Ryge, Karen Lennox, and their respective Newlyweds Chris and Natalie Lane share a quiet moment together children are all smiles at the Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church ceremony Photo Lisa Duncan Tues 12-5 Wed-Sat 10-5 YxuA DG Photo Lynds Photography à{ Thank you to “The Forge” 3416 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette Lynds Photography, Lafayette - www.lyndsphoto.com and 283-2988 www.waredesigns.com Loving Locally - Lisa Duncan, Moraga - www.lisaduncanphotography.com Lamorinda’s Wedding Venues for their contributions and pictures In addition to Lamorinda’s many Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa can host Veteran’s Memorial Building 1055 Hunsaker Canyon, Lafayette, houses of worship, there are a variety weddings of 10 to 200 guests that will The 9,500 square foot building takes (925) 283-2600, of beautiful locations available for be long remembered for their elegant the form of a lodge with a dramatic www.wildwoodacres.com those who do not belong to a church style, impeccable service and delight- granite and glass exterior and cathe- Not far from Lamorinda: or who are seeking a different setting ful surroundings. 3287 Mount Diablo dral-like interior featuring grand, airy for their wedding: Blvd, Lafayette, (925) 299-4388, spaces with high beamed ceilings, Claremont Resort & Spa [email protected] ample maple wood trim, clear-story With its grand design, commanding Founders Grove glass, and stained concrete decks. views and romantic rose gardens, The Exchange vows under a canopy of old Moraga Country Club 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, Claremont Resort & Spa is an unparal- oaks, followed by a celebratory dinner Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the valley (925) 283-1153, leled wedding locale. Claremont wed- on the patio, surrounded by lovely and surrounding orchards. Facilities www.lafayetteveterans.org. ding specialists guide couples through gardens. are open to non members for special [email protected] every crucial decision, and on-site 584 Glenside Drive, Lafayette, event rentals. amenities are innumerable. The Clare- (925) 283-3936, 1600 St. Andrews Drive, Moraga, Wildwood Acres Resort mont offers hair and make-up at Spa [email protected] (925) 631-1903, [email protected], A rustic jewel nestled in a hidden Claremont, extravagant receptions www.moragacc.com canyon in Lafayette catering to all Hacienda de las Flores rich in detail and sunset finales over- styles of weddings and private parties, and the Pavilion Postino’s looking the San Francisco Bay. specializing in outdoor wedding cer- This romantic Spanish-style estate Postino’s brick walls, slate tiled floors, Claremont Resort & Spa, 41 Tunnel emonies and receptions from spring features a patio with central fountain, fireplaces and intimate dining rooms Road, Berkeley (510) 549-8591, through fall and indoor celebrations large lawn and beautifully land- evoke images and feelings of Italy and [email protected] throughout the holiday season. scaped gardens. The classical style the Mediterranean. Individual rooms Pavilion building with Roman or the entire restaurant and terrazzo columns adjoins the estate and fea- are available for small or large parties tures a fully enclosed, circular patio, up to 250 guests. lawn and garden. 3565 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette , Accommodates up to 200 for outdoor (925)-299-2434, seated dining at the Hacienda and 50 [email protected], at the Pavilion. www.postinorestaurant.com 2100 Donald Drive, Moraga, St. Mary’s College (925) 888-7045, www.moraga.ca.us Soda Center [email protected] 1928 St. Mary’s Road, Moraga Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa (925) 631-4030 Soda Events FqÒpvlrojljbkq+@bib_o^qbfq^qqebobploq`ob^qfkd With more than 5,000 square feet of (925) 631-8013 Catering Director fkpmfobatbaafkdppfk`b.6.2+TfqeÛkb`rfpfkbmobm^oba indoor event space and six exquisitely www.stmarys-ca.edu coljqebcobpebpqe^ka*pbib`qbafkdobafbkqp+P`bkf`sfbtp appointed function rooms, the lcqebP^kCo^k`fp`l?^v^kadolrkap+>kaÜlo^i ^oo^kdbjbkqpqe^qfjm^oqqfjbibppbibd^k`b+>aaqlqe^q qebmirpe`ljcloqlc^``ljjla^qflkplbofkd^iruroflrp mi^`bqlobqob^q+?bdfkqebolj^k`blc^ifcbqfjbfkqeb Weddings pbqqfkdlcvlroaob^jp+Fqfp)^cqbo^ii)vlro_b^rqfcria^v+

We can cater your reception or host an intimate party for up to 40 guests in our private dining room. Terzetto Cuisine Catering uses the freshest and finest ingredients to produce delicious meals at a reasonable price. 800-551-7266 | `i^objlkqobploq+`lj Call Roos Pal for details 2.-*216*526.y`^qbofkd=`i^objlkqobploq+`lj 925-376-3832 www.terzettocuisine.com Page: 18 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009 SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS NEWS Saint Mary’s Big Men Secure Shamrock Classic Championship Diamon Simpson is Youth Role Model By Kevin D. Shallat By Robin Schoettler Fox

Participants in the 2nd Diamon Center Night, sitting in the choice court-level student section, wait for Saint Mary’s to take the court against San Jose State. Photo Robin Schoettler Fox ith Saint Mary’s students ident Ben Mangels made the Won winter break, the biggest impact by sponsoring all court-level student section mor- three Diamon Center Nights. phed into Diamon Center for the At Major’s invitation, this first night of the Gaels’ Sham- 2nd Diamon Center Night had a rock Tournament on December Lamorinda slant – nearly 100 kids 27. It was jammed with Diamon and parents from St. Perpetua in Simpson fans, many from Simp- Lafayette participated, including son’s hometown of Hayward who Coach Robert McKendall’s 5th were at the Gaels’ McKeon grade CYO team that scrimmaged Pavilion for the first time, all par- with Major’s St. Bede (Hayward) ticipants in the second of three CYO team during half-time (see Senior Diamon Simpson shoots over San Jose defenders on the way to winning the first game of December’s Shamrock Classic. (See related article) Diamon Center Nights scheduled related photo story). The Simpson made Saint Mary’s history in the January 2 game against CSU Bakersfield when he became the school’s all-time leading rebounder with a this season. Lafayette attendees purchased defensive board at 7:21 following a missed 3-pointed by CSU Bakersfield’s Bryan Emanuel. With that 917th rebound, Simpson surpassed Each Diamon Center Night tickets, but at discounted rates. Tom Meschery’s school record 916 rebounds mark, which stood since the end of the 1960-61 season. Photo Tod Fierner brings upwards of 300 Hayward At the pre-game rally, Major youth and others to Moraga to see summarized Simpson’s story: Di- he Saint Mary’s men’s basket- Classic tournament this year is un- garnering MVP honors for the tour- shot. Steindl hit both of his three- Simpson play, most having heard amon wasn’t a flashy player, did- Tball team locked up the Sham- doubtedly the Saint Mary’s big men, nament. point attempts and finished with him speak at prior visits to their n’t get much notoriety. He was rock Classic basketball tournament most notably 6’7 forward, Diamon Former Cal coach and current eight points in 17 minutes against schools. middle-of-the-pack, but always a by beating the San Jose State Spar- Simpson. The dominant senior has coach of Morgan State, Todd Boze- Morgan State. Conceived by former SMC hard worker. And that had earned tans and Morgan State Bears in Saint jumped out of the gates with author- man, stated after the game that Omar Samhan and Simpson baseball player Chris Major, Dia- impressive college career stats: Mary’s annual tournament in Mor- ity this year. Simpson has all the tools of a great are passing the ball successfully mon Center Nights are co-spon- “He’s going to be number aga. With Simpson, it’s not just player, and that if he developed a down low to each other, which is sored by Saint Mary’s College one in (SMC) history in rebounds, The Gaels survived a slow about rebounds. He is averaging a jump shot, he could play at the NBA opening up shots down low and out (SMC) and Hayward Youth Acad- he’ll be number one in jump shots, start against San Jose State on Satur- double-double in his swan song sea- level. on the perimeter. emy (HYA), a non-profit that offers he’ll be number two in fields, and day, December 27, to put them in the son for the Gaels, as he continues to Thankfully for the Saint “He (Samhan) was smart youth programs, educational serv- he’ll probably be number 3 or 4 in championship game against Morgan fill up the stat sheet. In Saturday’s Mary’s fans, the game against Mor- enough today to see the weak side. ices and parenting support. Major points scored. That’s how great State on Sunday. Saint Mary’s beat game Simpson finished with 20 gan State never felt too close, despite His vision has gotten just ridiculous is President and Chief Executive this young man is. But the most the Spartans, 87-78. In Sunday’s points, 13 rebounds, five blocks, and a few lead changes in the first half. because he sees the floor now,” said Officer of HYA. important thing about Diamon championship game the Gaels were four steals. Ian O’Leary scored all seven of his Simpson. Diamon Center Night is a that I have really learned from able to get back to form from the In Sunday’s game he was points in the first half of the champi- Samhan’s 21 points was a chance, said Major, for the kids to him was that he’s gotten better opening tip-off, coasting to a 76-60 three blocks shy of a triple-double. onship game to help the Gaels jump team high against San Jose State, and see what Saint Mary’s – the col- every single year that he endeav- win over the Bears. Simpson finished with 16 points, 10 out to a 48-37 halftime lead. his three assists and three blocks lege, not just the McKeon Pavil- ored to play the sport.” The story out of the Shamrock rebounds, and seven blocks, while Freshman Clint “Silky” helped wrap up the 76-60 win over ion – is like, to consider it an Then Major delivered the Steindl continues to impress for the Morgan State to help retain the option in their lives. The event in- Diamon Center Night punch line: Gaels, as he routinely knocks down Shamrock Classic title. cludes a pre-game rally, the game, “For all you young people here, long range 3-pointers with ease. He Notable: The Golden State and a chance to meet Simpson whether in sport, in the classroom, is very active without the ball, and Warriors General Manager Chris post-game. and in your work life, he sets a his quick feet are giving him the Mullin attended both games of the About seeking corporate and real model.” space he needs to knock down his tournament. individual sponsors to cover ticket The third Diamon Center costs, Major said that Lafayette-res- Night is Thursday, February 5. Local Youth Play at SMC’s McKeon Pavilion By Robin Schoettler Fox yan Cardiff, a St. Perpetua R(St. P's) 5th grade CYO bas- ketball player, reaches around the St. Bede (Hayward) defenders John Mondina (#4) and Hunter Schied (#9) to pass the ball in a goodwill rematch of last year’s Diocese of Oakland 4th grade championship game. The scrimmage, played in a packed McKeon Pavilion during SMC’s first Shamrock Classic game (December 27), was one of several activities coordinated by Di- amon Center Nights youth event or- ganizer and St. Bede coach, Chris Major. The St. Bede players are wearing Major’s Hayward Youth Academy jerseys. St. P’s, coached by Robert McKendall, won the Patrick Mills goes for a lay-up, 2 of the 13 points he scored in the Gaels’ original championship game by a final Shamrock Classic game, a 76-60 win over Morgan State that earned single shot. The scrimmage? That the Gaels the tournament title. Photo Tod Fierner was just for fun. Half-time youth team scrim- mages are popular entertainment at Patrick Mills (#13) Does it All McKeon Pavilion, but they’re more often available during women’s Photo Tod Fierner basketball games.

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Classes Offered Services Services Services Contra Costa Computers Windows & Gutters Handyman Adventure Boot Camp Reliable Window Cleaning Your project needs help? Paint, Get fit in these Fun, Fast Having Problems with your fix, build, pressure wash, decks, Paced, One hour, Outdoor Computer? Friendly service & remarkable re- sults! (Gutter & Pressure Washing) electrical, plumbing, concrete Classes for Adults. All fitness Previous IBM Helpdesk Experience & more. Inside & outside jobs. levels. Early morning classes www.ReliableWindowService.com software, hardware, internet (925) 254-7622 Professional and Reliable. available. You know you want $60 per Hour Call Terry: 925-788-1663 it! 925-457-4587, call Joey 925 286 0347 Raingutter cleaning www.ContraCostaBootCamp.com & Window washing Prompt/Friendly/Reliable Professional Music lessons House cleaning Lafayette Resident Joe Ryan Quality Work Piano Lessons in Lafayette with (925) 210-7400 Fix those last minute Holiday Repairs. professional instructor MTAC member. Housecleaning All types of repairs done. Woodworking, Electical, Audio, Leak repair, Drywall, Competition, CM exam Preparation. With references, 925-640-6311 Painting and more. Clean neat & on time! Rita Yegiazaryan 283-7601 No job to small, Senior Discount. ☎ 708-6053/283-3240 (925) Carol Alban is currently accepting Photo Robin Schoettler Fox E-mail; [email protected] College basketball star, Olympian, and… mopping instructor? During new students. She teaches all the San Jose State game on December 27, Patrick Mills takes a mo- levels of flute, beginning piano, Submit online: http://www.lamorindaweekly.com ment during a fourth-quarter time-out for one-on-one mopping in- guitar, recorder and voice. struction, teaching Saint Mary’s ball boy Kyle Nichols, a Moraga 3rd Moraga Studio 925.388-0130 $3 per line in bold, $2 per regular line, 3 lines minimum (max 30 Characters per line) grader, how to press down hard enough to get the job done www.carolalban.com Wednesday, January 7, 2009 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: 19 SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS NEWS DFAL Boys Women’s Basketball Counts Basketball Gets Under Way ... continued from page 1 Gaels’ 3500-seat McKeon Pavilion. 24th afternoon game. By Conrad Bassett For women’s games, the Last year, Saint Mary’s Pack he three Lamorinda boys played in three tournaments, win- school typically closes the upstairs, the Pavilion game registered season- Tvarsity basketball teams have ning two out of three games in each leaving 1500 court-level seats for high attendance figures, but Portland been traveling far and wide through one on their way to an 8-5 record. fans, most of which go unused. won the contest for the WCC. California, each hoping that their They played well in the Mission Coach Paul Thomas works “This year we want to break pre-season schedules would pre- Prep Christmas Classic in San Luis off-court to build interest. There are (attendance) records of the last five pare them for the upcoming Diablo Obispo, beating St. Joseph’s and bi-weekly fan breakfasts, commu- or six years,” says Hamaguchi. Foothill Athletic League (DFAL) host Mission Prep handily after los- nity presentations, and now a once- “We’re piling everything on, mak- a-month local radio broadcast. ing it big.” competition. ing to Fremont (Los Angeles). Meanwhile, Staci Hamaguchi, And that starts with the level All three teams enter DFAL Campolindo also had the op- Director of Athletic Promotions for of play – San Diego is tough com- competition with winning pre-sea- portunity to battle defending state SMC since 2007, brainstorms ways petition. Go for it, the coaches told son records. champion Campbell Hall and to draw in more students, alumni Hamaguchi. The Acalanes Dons went 7-4. stayed close for three periods until and community fans. “If we bring our ‘A’ game, it’s They lost three of their first five losing 72-54. Junior Kellen Ito has Half-time scrimmages attract going to be a great game,” Ham- games but followed with wins in led the team in scoring, rebounding families; so do youth team days. aguchi recalls the coaches saying. five of the last six games. They lost and blocks, while senior Chris Dyer Coach John Brewster huddles with his 6th grade St. P CYO team just There’s Kids Work McKeon, a new “If we come out with a vic- has been consistent with several prior to their half-time scrimmage in the Gaels’ McKeon Pavilion during to powerful De La Salle as well as the January 4th game against the Pacific Tigers. “I want you to score, to program aimed at giving boys and tory, it’s going to be exciting. If we steals and assists. Kennedy (Richmond) but defeated not be afraid to shoot,” he said. Photo Robin Schoettler Fox girls a peek at game-day operations. don’t, they’ll see that we played hard Acalanes has not played any several other North Coast foes, in- Now eyes are on that January the whole time.” cluding Piner, Rancho Cotate, and teams that Miramonte or Cam- Last year, almost two-thirds of Section Division III champs, Mira- San Rafael. Corey Collins, Steve polindo played during pre-season. Division I NCAA membership – monte High School. Maze, and David Masi have con- Both Campolindo and Miramone 198 institutions – participated, at- Or that Assistant Coach Tracy tributed to a balanced Don attack. played Skyline (Oakland). The tracting more than 592,000 fans Morris Johnston is the Campolindo Miramonte played in two Cougars beat Skyline (Oakland) in across the Pack the House games, graduate who became a star Saint tournaments, finishing in second overtime but Skyline edged out Mi- with 96 institutions breaking single- Mary’s player and remains the place in both the Wine Valley Clas- ramonte. attendance records and five pro- school’s all-time leading scorer with sic in Napa and the Sand Dune In- All of the other schools in the grams recording their first-ever 1,807 points. vitational in San Francisco. The revamped DFAL had winning non- sell-out game. At its best, women’s collegiate Matadors won four of their last five league seasons with one exception - While you’re at McKeon basketball is exciting and fun to Pavilion, look around. See all those watch. But it’s different than the games, featuring Chris Hatfield and - newcomer Dougherty Valley. young girls? Those may be the faces men’s game. Don’t come expecting Eric Obeysekere as leading scorers The DFAL season opened on of the future of women’s basketball. dunks, says Brewster. The women’s in most of the games. They have January 6 with Campo traveling to At least, says John Brewster, game is more pure, more focused on also faced strong competition, Miramonte and Acalanes traveling who took his 6th grade CYO team fundamentals, team play. being edged 77-74 by perennially to Las Lomas. Results were not to Sunday’s game against the Uni- Competition though is tough. strong St. Mary’s (Berkeley) as well available at press time. Check our versity of the Pacific, “They can Sunday’s game against Pacific was a as Chico (63-59) but beating Varsity Calendar for upcoming dream.” nail-biter, coming down to a foul home games. Amador Valley and Terra Linda. Brewster has coached twenty shot with 3 seconds left in the game, The Campolindo Cougars five basketball teams, everything SMC taking the win, 71-70. from CYO to high school, about half According to the NCAA, Local Lacrosse Players Battle in of which have been girls’ teams. women’s collegiate basketball Just going to women’s colle- trends are good: “In terms of inter- Breast Cancer Tourney giate games helps make big things est, participation, skill level and ex- Submitted by Evangeline Walsh seem possible for girls, says Brew- citement, all the indicators are ster: “Girls learn not to give up, not pointing up.” to think that it’s just a game for boys.” But attendance remains a Believing in the dream is eas- challenge nationwide. At Saint ier for girls who know SMC schol- Mary’s, thanks in part to Patrick arship freshman Katie Batlin was Mills’ near celebrity status, men’s the star of last year’s North Coast basketball games often sell-out the St Mary's Sierra Chambers (10) blocks Devanei Hampton (20) of Cal from driving to the basket Photo Jordan Fong SMC Gaels Home Games LMYA Spring Sign-ups go Online Fri, Jan 9 8:00 PM Women’s Tennis Submitted by Gint Federas Men’s Basketball Cal Winter Invitational at Berkeley MYA online registration for spring sports runs from January 10 – 20. Santa Clara Moraga (McKeon Pavilion) Sat, Jan 17 5:00 PM LPlease go to www.lmyasports.com for updates and to register for the Sat, Jan 10 2:00 PM Men’s Basketball following sports: Women’s Basketball Pepperdine Moraga (McKeon Pavilion) Tee-ball, co-ed (kindergarten) Photo Evangeline Walsh San Francisco Moraga Sun, Jan 18 All Day Soft baseball, separate girls and boys divisions (1st grade) Sun Jan 11 7:00 PM Women’s Tennis Baseball, boys (2nd/3rd grade) tournament used a 7-player versus ormer Lamorinda Lacrosse Men’s Basketball Cal Winter Invitational at Berkeley Softball, girls (2nd/3rd grade, 4th/5th grade, 6th/7th/8th grade) Club coach Pat Takahashi ref- 7-player format. Eight teams com- San Francisco SF (War Memorial Gym) Mon, Jan 19 All Day Volleyball, girls (5th-8th grade) F peted, with over 100 girls donating ereed the December 2008 inaugu- Thurs, Jan 15 6:00 PM Men’s Tennis Volleyball, boys (5th/6th grade boys play in 6th grade girls’ their $30 entrance fees. Referees ral Battle versus Breast Cancer Men’s Basketball Cal Winter Invitational at Berkeley division. 2 boys per team, maximum) and coaches donated time. All prof- Lacrosse Tournament, with several Loyola Marymount Moraga Sat, Jan 24 2:00 PM Soccer camp (boys, 3rd-8th grade) of Takahashi’s former local players its went to the National Breast Can- (McKeon Pavilion) Women’s Basketball Fri, Jan 16 All Day High Hoops Basketball (high school) participating. Takahashi was the cer Foundation. San Diego Moraga Women’s Tennis Fees vary by program. Most programs are $185, except Kindergarten – 1st first Lamorinda Lacrosse Club Pictured (left to right): Emilia Thu, Jan 29 7:00 PM Cal Winter Invitational at Berkeley grade tee-ball and baseball, which are $140. There are registration discounts coach when the program expanded Harband (Acalanes), Erin Walsh Women’s Basketball Sat, Jan 17 All Day for coaches and other volunteers. to include 6th-8th grade girls in (Miramonte), Pat Takahashi, Alex Gonzaga * Moraga 2003; these former players are now Seclow (Miramonte), Rachel Ozer in high school. Organized by Cali- (Campolindo), Devin Frazer VARSITY HOME GAME Calendar ••• High School Varsity @ Home ••• (Acalanes) and Brooke Winslow fornia High School head varsity Wednesday, January 7 Miramonte @ Acalanes, 5:30pm Wednesday, January 14 Dougherty Valley @ Miramonte, 5:30pm (Acalanes). lacrosse coach Scott Corso, the Girls Soccer Boys Basketball Girls Soccer Boys Basketball Dougherty Valley @ Acalanes, 6:15pm Mirmaonte @ Acalanes, 7pm Acalanes @ Campolindo, 6:15pm Las Lomas @ Campolindo, 7pm Send sports stories and ideas to: Boys Soccer Girls Soccer Boys Soccer: Dougherty Valley @ Miramonte, 7pm Las Lomas @ Miramonte, 6:15pm Dublin @ Acalanes, 6:15pm Campolindo @ Acalanes, 2pm Girls Soccer Dublin @ Campolindo, 6:15pm Saturday, January 10 Friday, January 16 Las Lomas @ Acalanes, 6:15pm [email protected] Friday, January 9 Boys Soccer: Girls Basketball Boys Soccer or call 925-377-0977 Girls Basketball San Ramon Valley @ Acalanes, 5pm Las Lomas @ Campolindo, 5:30pm Campolindo @ Miramonte, 6:15pm

Patricia Battersby, Ashley Battersby, Joan Cleveland, Joan Eggers, Joan Evans, Linda Friedman, Marianne Greene, Pamela Halloran, Dexter Honens II, Debbie Johnston, Hal Kaufman Lamorinda’s Leading Independent Real Estate Firm April Matthews Charles Levine, Lehman, Art Layng, Sue Kaufman, Margot

93 Moraga Road, Suite #103 Orinda, CA 94563 925•254•0505 To learn more about Village Associates or to preview our listings please visit: www.villageassociates.com Clark Thompson, Ignacio Vega, Ann H. Ward, Dan Weil, Margaret Weil Zucker Zucker Weil Margaret Weil, Dan Ward, Ann H. Vega, Ignacio Thompson, Clark I. Bruce Maxon, Loretta Mullins, Karen Murphy, Sue Olsen, Ben Olsen, Lara Olsen Williamson, Kurt Piper, Tara Rochlin, Judy Schoenrock, Ann Sharf, Steve Smith, Lynda Snell, Jeff Snell Page: 20 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, January 7, 2009 S SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS Kasper’s 
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ORINDA SHOES & SERVICE est. 1952 Shoe Repair Save Gas Specializing In Orthopedic Corrections Day Spa, Salon & Café Save Money Footwear & Accessories 2 Theatre Square, Suite 148 • Orinda Tel. Save Time 925-254-5088 925-254-9721 www.entouragespa.com Shop your local McCaulou’s 19 Avenida De Orinda • behind Orinda Motors

Looking for Downtown Revitalization and Residential Development Rules and Process - Public Workshops

WORKSHOP I WORKSHOP II You are invited to attend a workshop on revitalization of downtown Orinda and on the rules and process for residential development. Available Saturday, January 10, Wednesday, January 21, At the workshop you will hear presentations on draft Has relocated in Orinda Wed, Fri, Sat 9AM - 12 Noon 7PM - 9PM recommendations to revitalize downtown Orinda and on the 1000 - 540 residential development regulations and review process and have now at: Library Auditorium Sarge Littlehale Community Village Barbers For Appointments an opportunity to provide input. at 26 Orinda Way, Orinda Room, City Hall, 22 Orinda 122 Village Square, Lower Level 925-254-6911 To view the draft reports please visit the City’s website at: www.cityoforinda.org GeppettoÊs of Orinda

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Watch for Shop Moraga January 21th • Call for Advertising 925.377.0977