VOLUME LII, NUMBER 48 Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING DUBLIN • LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015

Winery Owner Proposal Initiative to Extend Sewage

Find Out What's Service Leaves UGB Intact Happening The Livermore City requests from Councilmem- (SLVAP) properties. The include creating 12 separate conditional use permit ap- Council agreed to begin ber Steven Spedowfski and specific developer asking for lots of approximately 20 plication to Alameda Coun- Check Out Section A an effort to extend sewage Friends of Livermore, the the sewage service extension acres each. Six of the lots ty. However, because of Section A is filled with service outside the South council amended the reso- wants to move forward with would be winery or win- restrictions on the use of information about arts, Livermore urban growth lution to make clear that no building plans for the Beyer ery related uses, including septic tanks, the developer people, entertainment and boundary (UGB) through changes to the UGB would Ranch. a winery hospitality cen- is unable to move forward special events. There are the initiative process. be included in the proposed The proposed project ter. The remaining six lots with the project because of education stories, a variety of features, and the arts and The council voted unani- initiative. would be located near the would be residential “estate conditions from the County entertainment and bulletin mously for the resolution, The initiative would intersection of Tesla Road vineyard” sites. and the San Francisco Re- board. with one correction to the cover the entire South and Greenville Road. The The applicant has sub- wording. Responding to Livermore Valley Area Plan plans for the 243 acre parcel mitted a tentative map and (See INITIATIVE, page 2)

Little League Lund World Series Ranch in Livermore Decision In 2016 Delayed to Livermore has been cho- sen as the site of the 2016 Dec. 1 Little League Intermediate World Series. At the request of the District 57 Little League, developer, the Lund Ranch which includes teams from II project was continued to Dublin, Pleasanton, Dan- the Dec. 1 Pleasanton City ville, Livermore and San Council meeting. Green- Ramon, will host the event. briar's plan would build 50 The World Series will be homes on 35 acres of a 195 played July 31 to August 6 at acre site. The remainder of Max Baer Park, Livermore. the land would be dedicated This is the 4th year Liver- to open space. more has been the site of the Greenbriar Homes sug- Intermediate World Series. gested the continuance in Dave Wetmore, Direc- order to absorb comments tor Little League Baseball made by the public and Intermediate World Series, councilmembers. stated, "We are very excited After the meeting, to continue our relationship Greenbriar said that plans with Little League Baseball are to proceed with the ap- in Livermore with the Inter- plication on Dec. 1. It will mediate World Series. In Photo - Doug Jorgensen remain the same, as will 2015, over 40,000 people attended the games at Max Students at Cottage Preschool enjoyed a Thanksgiving Feast last week. Three parents who attended the same the preferred option for a Baer Park and viewers from Preschool and Thanksgiving Feast when they were 3-5 yr olds, are now who are cooking turkeys for the annual connection to Lund Ranch 82 countries watched the feast. Students entertained their guests with songs. Road. However, since the games via 'live stream.'" city council has the abil- ESPN2 televised the ity to make changes from championship game dur- the dias, Greenbriar will ing prime time with Seoul, be providing additional South Korea (Asia Pacif- Board Delays Altamont Repowering, information in response to ic) vs Wellington, Florida councilmember questions (Southeast USA). The cham- and concerns at the hearing. pionship game had approxi- Seeks More Transparency in Siting At the November 17 mately 10,000 in attendance. meeting, with Councilmem- Seoul, South Korea were the An application to repow- resentatives, and Alameda turbines that may be prob- Gosselin said that there ber Jerry Pentin recusing winners of the 3rd annual er a 5-square-mile section of County staff on the applica- lematical. apparently is a way to ob- himself from the vote, the world series. the Altamont with up to 32 tion. There is substantial data tain more information, remaining four council- Wetmore added, "The modern wind turbines has Board president Larry available in the county staff without interfering with members struggled to come World Series Committee, been continued to Dec. 10 Gosselin and member Jon report. However, there was Smallwood's proprietary to an agreement over access City of Livermore, Liver- in an effort to obtain more Harvey said they were glad one stumbling block to interest. Staff will work up to the development in the more Area Recreation and transparency concerning the to see repowering, and ap- transparency, said the BZA a presentation for the Dec. southeast hills of Pleasan- Park District, Visit Tri-Val- science behind the decisions peared to be leaning toward members. The Altamont 10 meeting. ton. One proposed access ley and the twelve local on where to site the turbines. approval. However, the loca- Winds' consultant, Shawn Testimony at the meeting would be through Lund California District 57 Little The East County Board tions of some of the turbines Smallwood, contends that he centered on avian deaths, Leagues are very proud of Ranch Road, the other Sun- of Zoning Adjustments came up as an issue. Gosse- has his own methodology of aesthetics of the turbines, set Creek Road. Each op- (See WORLD SERIES, page 2) (BZA) met Nov. 19. It heard lin and Harvey said that it is locating the turbines. It can't and noise produced by the tion drew opposition from from applicant Altamont important to see the process be shared publicly. How- machines. There also were residents who would be County Clerk Wind LLC, Dyer Road resi- more clearly and publicly ever, the county's consultant, comments from a Native impacted by traffic gener- dents, East Bay Regional in order to make decisions Dave Dean, did have access American organization that ated by the development. Satellite Office Park District (EBRPD) rep- about seven potential wind to one copy of the report. (See REPOWERING, page 4) to Be Opened (See LUND RANCH, page 5) In Dublin Split Vote Gives Zone 7 The Alameda County Clerk-Recorder’s Office is opening a new satellite Manager Pay Boost office in Dublin in order Zone 7 Water Agency year after Duerig was given to make its services more directors raised general a 3 percent raise along with accessible to people who manager Jill Duerig's sal- the other Zone 7 employees. live or work in the County’s ary to $275,900 in an action However, Duerig had southern and eastern areas. announced after the board's voluntarily foregone raises The new office at 7600 closed session. for several years during the Dublin Boulevard will open Directors voted 4 to 2 recession and its aftermath. on Tuesday, December 1 at their Nov. 19 meeting. and initially will be open on Directors wanted to raise her Mondays and Tuesdays only President Sarah Palmer and pay to within 4.5 percent of from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. directors Sandy Figuers, the median of comparable It is anticipated that the of- John Greci, and Bill Ste- water agencies, said Palmer. fice will expand to Monday vens voting for the raise. The raise at 4.4 percent is through Friday hours in the Directors Dick Quigley and still below the median, she near future. Angela Ramirez-Holmes said. “We are delighted to be voted "no." Director James Palmer said, "We said we Pamela Eckert ( from left), Congressman Eric Swalwell, Patrick Kirbach and Lynn opening a new satellite of- McGrail was absent. were going to give a raise Monica planted a fig tree at Sunflower Hill Gardens on Saturday November 21. The fice in Dublin because we Duerig had been mak- over time. We figured this non profit organization is ending its first year of operation, harvesting more than 7000 believe this location will ing $239,900. The 15 per- was the time to do it. You pounds of veggies, fruits, flowers and herbs. Approximately 70 percent of the produce be much more convenient cent increase, amounting to can't bring in a good general for a significant number of $25,900 annually, comes a is donated regularly to local food pantries like Open Heart Kitchen, Shepherd's Gate our customers,’’ said Steve (See ZONE 7, page 4) and Tri-Valley Haven. Manning, Alameda County Auditor-Controller/Clerk- PET OF THE WEEK Recorder. Inside Prepare to be blown away by Bubbles, a friendly, one-year- The new offices will be old Dachshund-mix dog with the perfect combination of within walking distance gentleness and energy. Bubbles loves going on walks and SECTION A of the West Dublin BART Editorial...... 4 enjoys playing fetch. Calm and laid back, she is equally station and will include a Art & Entertainment...... 8 Mailbox...... 4 content floating along by your side. Catch this irresistible free customer parking area. Currently, people who need Bulletin Board...... 10 Roundup...... 3 sweetheart at Valley Humane Society, before she gets away: 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton, Tues. through Sat. from to obtain vital records from Milestones ...... 12 Short Notes...... 9 the Alameda County Clerk- 10am – 4pm. For more information, visit valleyhumane.org or Recorder must do so at its MAIN SECTION Sports...... 6 call 426-8656. Be sure to join us for Black Cat Friday Weekend on November 27 & 28. Photo - Valley Humane Society/G. Subramonian (See OFFICE, page 2) Classifieds...... 11 Obituaries...... 9 PAGE 2 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 INITIATIVE (continued from page one) gional Water Quality Con- Jean King read a letter the initiative proposed by trol Board. from Lee Younker, President winery representatives does The request to gain sew- of Friends of Livermore, not request the UGB be age service for the project supporting the request for moved. There should be no includes several steps on the the LAVWMA approval ambiguity." part of the applicant, starting with the assurance that pro- The letter continued to with a request for Livermore visions would be in place state that the group desires Amador Water Management to safeguard and protect to protect the vision that Agency (LAVWMA) Board open space and the essen- the community has held for to consider an exemption to tial features of the SLVAP. many years, that of protect- the Joint Exercise of Pow- The UGB was the focus of ing open space and agricul- ers Agreement to create an Younker's comments. "It ture around the city. "They opportunity for the City of would be very easy to have are the defining features of Livermore to look at provid- a series of actions threaten the city, making Livermore ing sewer service. what has taken so long to a special place to live and If LAVWMA agrees, then put in place." visit. We understand why an initiative process would Councilmember Stewart the sewer expansion may Anna Maria Bailey, LLNL high performance computing facility manager, with the be launched to amend the Gary raised the same issue be necessary for this proj- Cab supercomputer that will be retrofitted with liquid cooling in January. Photo by Julie provision in the UGB ap- under matters initiative by ect because of heightened Russell/LLNL proved by voters that prohib- the council. "I am support- unease about groundwater its extension of city services ive of viticulture. However, quality and the difficulty in beyond the boundary to I am more supportive of the obtaining permits for septic State grant enables energy-saving properties not adjacent to UGB." He wanted assurance systems. the UGB. that if sewage services were "Friends of Livermore retrofit of Lab computing clusters Because of the cost of extended, that the county has no particular objection Supercomputers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) will be retrofit- conducting the ballot mea- could not add additional to the Beyer Ranch project. ted with liquid cooling systems under a California Energy Commission (CEC) grant to sure, the applicant has asked housing. He wanted air-tight Indeed, it appears to be a assess potential energy savings. that the city request an ex- protections that would pre- good project consistent with Asetek has received a $3.5 million grant from the CEC for retrofits at two California emption from LAVWMA vent in any way intensifica- the spirit and values of the high performance computing (HPC) centers. A second yet-to-be-disclosed California data prior to beginning the signa- tion of development beyond SLVAP. " center also will be retrofitted under the grant next year. Energy savings and the associated ture gathering process. zoning already allowed in Roberts said that an out cost reductions are critical to data centers and supercomputing facilities around the world. In its report to the council, the SLVAP. of service contract can be The company is a provider of energy, efficient liquid cooling systems for data centers, city staff noted that an ap- The letter from Friends extraordinarily restrictive. servers and HPC clusters. proval from the LAVWMA of Livermore asked that the Staff will analyze the ini- “We are excited about this important project,” said John Hamill, Asetek vice president Board would likely include wording in the proposed tiative to determine if ad- for Worldwide Sales. “Not only will it benefit LLNL, but the results gathered from the conditions that the project resolution considered by the ditional city policies were project will be used to improve energy efficiency of data centers worldwide.” undergo a thorough develop- council to amend the UGB needed. Lawrence Livermore’s Cab supercomputer will undergo retrofitting in January during ment review process, includ- be changed, because it could Friends of Livermore the first phase of the project. CAB, a Linux commodity cluster delivering 431 teraflops ing CEQA analysis, and that lead citizens to think that the has been discussing with (trillions of floating point operations per second) for unclassified computing, is currently the applicant not modify winery interests want the the applicant our mutual air cooled. Later next year, one of the recently announced Commodity Technology System the project in a manner that UGB expanded. "We believe goals to reaffirm and pro- (CTS-1) clusters slated for installation at Lawrence Livermore also will be fitted with significantly changes the that Livermore citizens are mote the SLVAP and our an Asetek emerging future liquid cooling technology as the second phase of this grant. projected wastewater flows, strongly opposed to mov- historic Livermore Valley “This is an exciting project with Asetek that will help advance the state-of-the-art in the number and sizes of the ing the UGB. Furthermore, wine country. energy savings for data centers,” said Anna Maria Bailey, LLNL’s HPC facilities manager lots, or intended mix of uses and a co-organizer of the annual Energy Efficient Working Group workshop conducted on each lot. at the upcoming Supercomputing Conference. “As part of this project, we will measure City Manager Marc Rob- savings and assess such potential benefits as improved computational performance.” erts told the council that cur- LLNL has entered into a “work for others” (WFO) contract with Asetek to undertake rent controls on septic tanks the retrofits. The selected systems for the first phase of the project, all currently air cooled, prevent additional develop- will be retrofitted with Asetek’s all-in-one liquid cooling technology. The liquid cooling ment at this time. Extending technology is used to reduce power, greenhouse emissions and lower noise in data centers, sewage service would allow servers, as well as HPC systems. implementation of the South The project and many other similar energy-efficient HPC efforts was discussed during Livermore Valley Area Plan the Energy Efficient High Performance Computing Working Group’s all-day workshop as it has been envisioned. on Nov.16, in Austin, Texas. Bailey is the co-chair of the group. He noted that the SLVAP “Reducing power consumption and the associated costs at data centers and high consists of 15,000 acres. performance computing facilities is a leading concern of the HPC community,” Bailey Currently, approximately said, noting that “addressing this issue is critical as we develop ever more powerful next- 5,000 acres are under ease- generation super computers.” ment. He didn't anticipate a large number of requests for service, because it would WORLD SERIES make no economic sense. (continued from page one) In addition, those receiv- ing the service will have to this event. We all look for- in South Williamsport, Pa. memories,” said Stephen D. pay for the extension and to ward to the upcoming event Over the course of 34 days, Keener. “The 2016 season maintain the system. in the summer of 2016." Little Leaguers® ages 11 to will culminate at our nine The 2016 Little League 18 from around the world World Series tournaments, World Series tournaments will play more than 225 but the real value of the begin with the Big League baseball and softball games Little League program is the Baseball World Series in to determine nine World benefit of the experiences Easley, S.C. on July 26. The Series champions. that millions of youth gain tournaments conclude with “Next spring in 7,000 throughout the spring and the Little League Baseball® communities, boys and girls, summer.” World Series Championship along with parents and vol- For more information on Game on Sunday, Aug. 28 unteers will come together the Little League Baseball on Little League fields in 83 Intermediate 50-70's World countries to create lifelong Series please visit - www. lliws.org OFFICE (continued from page one)

main offices at 1106 Madi- son Street in Oakland. When first opening, ser- vice offerings at the Dublin office will include certified copies of vital records (birth, death and marriage certifi- cates), certified copies of of- ficial public records (record- ed real estate documents), and document recording. A customer research area will also be provided. As customer volumes increase, the Clerk-Recorder’s Office plans to expand services to include the issuance of mar- riage licenses, notary bonds, fictitious business names and other records.

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www.independentnews.com The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 - PAGE 3 Council Extends Catholic High School Development Agreement

The Livermore City the City of Livermore and more near Las Colinas Road. the terms and timing of on- of the extension. The school the details match what the Council approved a five- Adventus Corporation for The agreement was ap- and off-site improvements, was approved during his city wants. He expected the year extension of the Devel- development of a Catholic proved in 2005 and was set including roadways, utility term. He said that the school information will be avail- opment Agreement between High School in North Liver- to expire Dec. 14. It includes undergrounding, regional would be on the front burner able to the public in early trail improvements, and in the first quarter of 2016. January. permanent preservation of The demand for the high PLANE AT AIRPORT approximately 75 acres of school is there. He noted that Mayor John Marchand open space. it will be the first named for proposed that the city accept The council vote was Pope John Paul II. a Learjet to be displayed at unanimous. RFP RESPONSE the Livermore Airport. He Pat Kernan, represent- City Manager Marc Rob- said the plane has historic Food and Toy Drive people of all ages and abilities to walk ing Adventus Corporation, erts reported that the broker significance in that it was Alameda County Supervisor Scott and bike citywide; told the council, "It's been marketing the city's two one of the first to fly into the Haggerty will host his 4th Annual Holi- • Address gaps in the walking, biking a struggle. Not only the downtown requests for pro- Livermore Airport. day Open House Food and Toy Drive on and trail networks; and economy, but also politics posals (RFPs) had received The engines would be re- Wednesday, December 16, from 5:30 pm • Prioritize key walking and biking in the Catholic Church have multiple responses. Eight moved. The jet and the cost to 8:00 pm. improvements delayed the project." He were for residential and of delivery to Livermore It will take place at Heritage House on added that the group has commercial only, three for a would be donated. "It would the Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 One Injury in Fire invested over $3 million of hotel only, and an additional be a cool statement at the Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton. On November 19, 2015, the Liver- its own money in the project. three for residential, com- airport," stated Marchand. Hors d’oeuvres will be provided by more-Pleasanton Fire Department re- "We are determined to make mercial and a hotel. Staff will look at the this a reality." proposal and bring a report Ovations. sponded to a report of a structure fire The process will begin Former Mayor Marshall back to the council for con- Bring a toy or non-perishable food in the 300 block of N. K St. in the City to evaluate the details of the Kamena spoke in support proposals to determine if sideration. item for donation to a local charity. of Livermore at 10:55 p.m. A two unit Please RSVP to Leah Doyle-Stevens, duplex home was reported as having [email protected] or at light smoke coming from the eaves. First LARPD Board Hears Report 925-551-6995 arriving crews completed a search and extinguished a fire in the kitchen. Fire Express Lanes Coming crews extinguished the fire within the first On Programs; Sets Goals Drivers on I-580 through Dublin, 5 minutes. Fire damage was contained to The Livermore Area Rec- Directors also approved outreach methods that en- Pleasanton and Livermore will soon the kitchen and living room; there was reation and Park District District Goals for 2015- courage underserved groups spend less time in stop-and-start traffic. smoke damage to all other rooms. board received updates on 2016, among them the fol- to participate in programs Scheduled to open in February 2016, the There was one reported injury associ- various programs and proj- lowing: and facilities, and utilize the new I-580 Express Lanes will improve ated with this incident. The lone occupant ects at its meeting last week. • Develop creative recre- LARPD Foundation to raise the commute along the Tri-Valley corri- of the home was in the living room and Aquatics Supervisor Sha- ation programs that resonate more funds for scholarships dor and encourage carpooling and transit. heard a popping noise from the kitchen. ron Grant told the board with the public, garner cus- that supplement the costs of that the 2015 attendance is tomer loyalty, and make a All I-580 Express Lane drivers will When he entered the kitchen, he saw recreation programs for low more than 116,000 so far – greater contribution to cover need a FasTrak® or FasTrak® Flex toll smoke and flames. In an attempt to extin- income families. tag and valid FasTrak account to use the up from 115,000 last year overhead costs. • Collaborate with the guish the fire, the occupant received some for the same time period. • Seek outside fund- lanes. City of Livermore, Alameda minor first-degree burns to his head. He The District employs more ing for capital projects that The I-580 Express Lanes will be toll- County and other outside was treated and released by the Paramed- than 80 part-time lifeguards implement energy-saving agencies to complete facil- free for carpools (2 or more occupants), ics Plus ambulance. and swim instructors, who and watersaving goals and/ ity improvement projects vanpools, eligible clean-air vehicles, The Livermore-Pleasanton Fire De- provided 5,061 hours of or reduce maintenance costs at historic facilities that the buses and motorcycles with a FasTrak partment sent 3 Engines, 1 Truck, and 1 pool operation including 790 at District facilities. District owns or operates. Flex toll tag, a new type of FasTrak tag Chief, for a total of 14 personnel. swim classes. • Continue community available online and at Safeway, Costco Damage is estimated at $115,000. The Highlights from 2015 and Walgreens stores in the Tri-Valley cause of the fire is under investigation. include 178 people braving area. the 10th annual Polar Bear Motorists can get help finding a car- Murder Suspect Dead Slide, the Electric Eels swim HAPPY THANKSGIVING! pool at http://www.rideshare.511.org/ According to the Livermore Police team growing to 170 swim- The I-580 Express Lanes will look and Department (LPD), Jason Alexander mers, the LARPD LAZERS feel like carpool lanes, allowing motorists Brown, the suspect sought in a shooting water polo team hosting 12 to enter and exit almost anywhere along in the parking lot of CVS Pharmacy in weekend tournaments with the corridor. Livermore on Oct. 24, shot himself as teams from around the Bay The Lanes will operate Monday police prepared to make an arrest. Liver- Area, and LARPD hosting the SwimStrong fundraiser through Friday, from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 more Police had issued an arrest warrant p.m. Outside of these hours, the Express that brought in more than Linda Futral for Brown on one count of murder and $25,000 for pediatric oncol- Lanes will be open to all vehicles at no one count of attempted murder. Broker/Realtor ogy. 5124 Diane Lane, Livermore 925.980.3561 charge and with no toll-tag requirements. LPD detectives learned he was at a [email protected] The board learned aobut Another thankful seller!!! Selling well Motorists can sign up to receive up- www.lindafutral.com motel in Oakland last Thursday. LPD the new cyber and credit card takes the right marketing strategy. dates about the express lanes at www. License #01257605 detectives requested the assistance of security, as well as the new Homes are still moving so alamedactc.org/580express the Oakland Police Department (OPD) Active Network registration look to get the highest possible price in serving the arrest warrant on Brown. software system. in the market with Linda Futral. Bike/Pedestrian Plan Workshop OPD deployed a tactical team, and as Pleasanton staff will be hosting the they prepared to contact Brown, multiple City's first public workshop related to gunshots were fired from the motel room. the Pleasanton Pedestrian and Bicycle The OPD tactical team tried to negotiate Master Plan Update. The workshop will with Brown. Brown was later found dead be held on December 8th from 6 to 8 PM in the motel room from what appeared to at the Pleasanton Library in the Large be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. No Conference Room. law enforcement officers discharged their The purpose of the workshop is to firearms during this incident. invite the community to discuss and share The Livermore Police Department ideas regarding how to: Criminal Investigations Bureau continues • Improve the safety and comfort for to work on this homicide investigation.

Cooler weather is coming, and so is a cool chance to win.

Thank you, Livermore District customers, for reducing your water use by 31.6% in October compared with October 2013, and by 42.4% since June. Please, keep up the good work so we can continue to meet the State mandate of 24% every month through February 2016.

As the seasons change and the need to water outdoors eases, saving water indoors becomes even more important. California Water Service (Cal Water) has multiple tools, programs, and rebates to help you save and meet the State mandate. To learn more, visit calwater.com/conservation.

And, Cal Water is offering an additional incentive: From December through February, we will give $50 gift cards to 25 lucky customers in the district whose names will be drawn from those customers who each month stayed at or below their water budget the previous month. To learn more, please visit calwater.com/reward.

Quality. Service. Value. PAGE 4 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 Dublin Opens Door to More Housing The Dublin City Council and councilmembers Don design, which won a national larger area than where its EDITORIALS approved a Community Biddle and Doreen Wehren- award when it was built in units are located. The other Benefits Agreement (CBA) berg voted for the agree- Southern California, does $700,000 or so will come in Housing for Veterans that will launch the first ment. They liked the idea not fit the neighborhood, cash. Further, Trumark will project in the Downtown of moving ahead with the he said. pay $800,000 in affordable The City of Dublin has responded to calls Specific Plan. The plan project in hopes of encour- Hart also said that judg- housing in-lieu fees to the for affordable housing by approving a 66-unit aims at creating a pedes- aging other property owners ing by the design, residents city. plan to house veterans and their families. trian friendly area with to follow suit. would be using their garages If the city didn't have The housing will be located within walk- shops, restaurants and the Mayor David Haubert for storage, and park on the the storm capture structure ing distance of the West Dublin/Pleasanton 60 multi-family housing abstained. He said a delay is streets, which would create provided by the developer, units that would help sus- BART station, schools, job and retail centers, important so that at a future a problem. it would have to pay for tain it. date the staff could discuss The planning commis- it itself. Although state- and other services. The vote was 3-1-1. a vision for the downtown. sion had already recom- mandated, with a deadline In addition to providing homes, the de- Most speakers in the The council knows the num- mended approval of the of 2017, no state funding is velopment will include services tailored to audience opposed the Tru- ber of square feet of com- project. The developer's last currently provided for such veterans. There are discussions with Chabot- mark development because mercial zoning and of units stop was at the city council a project. it would vest units that Las Positas Community College District for the downtown plan, but for approval of the plan One of the few people are projected to generate "no one seems to have a and its community benefits in favor of moving forward about offering courses and career workshops more school children, when clear picture what it means package. was Dublin Chamber of on-site for the veterans. there already are 5000 units to them," Haubert told The Trumark is giving the city Commerce board chairman Funding for the $34-million development vested. Speakers wanted Independent. $1 million, split between Rick Sanciangco. Noting was provided by the City of Dublin, County the future school housing Hart said that he voted $300,000 for a new, state- that balancing residential problem solved first. Other "no," because he did not mandated "green" storm and commercial uses is a of Alameda, Housing Authority of the County complaints centered on of Alameda, California Department of Hous- think the project would work grate drainage design that challenge for any city. The parking and traffic. in its proposed location on will take care of a much Chamber supports the spe- ing and Community Development, Bank of Vice Mayor Abe Gupta Regional Street. The modern cific plan and the CBA. America, California Community Reinvest- ment Corporation, and The Home Depot Foundation. One speaker at the event suggested that Livermore Schools Recognized for other cities and towns follow Dublin's ex- Increasing Access to AP Classes ample. We agree. The Livermore Valley cluding those traditionally with a high degree of readi- rooms, and it is a real testa- Joint Unified School District under-represented, has been ness for AP, only about half ment to their belief that a (LVJUSD) is one of 425 a major effort on the part of students are participating. more diverse population of Isabel Development school districts in the U.S. of Livermore Valley joint The first step to delivering young people is ready for the The City of Livermore presented three op- and Canada being honored Unified School District and the opportunity of AP to challenge of college,” said tions for high density development at a future by the College Board with its high schools," stated students is providing access Trevor Packer, the College Isabel BART station. Each option contained placement on the 6th An- Superintendent Kelly Bow- by ensuring courses are Board’s senior vice presi- 4000 housing units, office, commercial and nual AP® District Honor ers. “The LVJUSD has been available, that gatekeeping dent of AP and Instruction. stops, and that the doors are “Congratulations to these retail. Roll for increasing access working with Equal Op- to Advanced Placement portunity Schools for the equitably opened so these teachers and administrators, The three options placed the uses at (AP) course work, while last two years as a result students can participate. To and to their hard-working slightly different locations. simultaneously maintaining of having been selected to this end and through a part- students.” Discussions were held at tables where 8 or increasing the percentage participate in a Google/Har- nership with the Pedrozzi In 2015, more than 3,800 to 10 people took part in providing input on of students earning scores of vard Grant. Our efforts have Scholarship Foundation, all colleges and universities the various options. The exercise represented 3 or higher on AP Exams. shown measured success. 10th grade students in the around the world received Reaching these goals This is a major step forward LVJUSD take the Practice AP scores for college credit, little more than moving preconceived ideas indicates that a district is in closing the Achievement Scholastic Aptitude Test advanced placement, and/or around. successfully identifying Gap and ensuring all stu- (PSAT). This allows us to consideration in the admis- There was no concensus, other than sup- motivated, academically dents, regardless, of their identify students who would sion process, with many col- port for a loop trail surrounding the entire prepared students who are background are college and otherwise not be identified leges and universities in the area, that would include bridges over the ready for the opportunity career ready.” for higher level courses. United States offering credit “That the committed in one or more subjects for freeway. of AP. Data from 2015 show “Expanding rigorous, that among black/African teachers and administrators qualifying AP scores. Given a real choice, it is unlikely that resi- college level course offer- American, Hispanic, and in this district have both ex- The complete 6th An- dents would support any of the plans. ings for all students, in- Native American students panded AP access and also nual AP District Honor Roll Livermore, like other cities, is a hostage helped their students achieve can be found here (https:// to MTC, which requires high density hous- high levels of performance secure-media.collegeboard. ing around transit sites in order to qualify a on AP Exams shows they org/digitalServices/pdf/ap/ REPOWERING are delivering opportunity ap-district-honor-roll-6th- project for funding. MTC administers federal (continued from page one) in their schools and class- annual.pdf). and state transportation funds. pear to be incorrect." The end result is an outside agency's vision said there was little notice Dyer Road resident Alan of development, not Livermore's. provided to them about the Paige said that he has seen Parks Offer repowering. They want to no information about set- study the proposal from backs and shadow flicker Places to Walk the aspect of intrusion on (blades on sunny says cast- cultural artifacts. After the ing intermittent shadows on The East Bay Regional marks, allowing thousands project started, there would residences). He suggested Park District applauds the of residents to forego their be an opportunity for them to at the meeting that a spread U.S. Surgeon General’s cars and walk or bike to their comment on the field work, sheet showing all of the as- recent call to action for destinations. Americans to walk more. said staff. pects would be good. In addition, the Park ZONE 7 Walking is a “simple, District has been a strong (continued from page one) EBRPD is glad to see Dyer Road resident Dar- effective and affordable way supporter of the interna- repowering, to save avian ryl Mueller noted that a manager (in the future) if to build physical activity tional Healthy Parks Healthy ing permits for people and lives, said assistant district report about the application you are not competitive." into our lives,” said Surgeon People initiative to encour- businesses that drill wells, counsel Kristina Kelchner. was finished Nov. 4, not Quigley told The Inde- General Dr. Vivek Murthy age park use as a way to whether for tests or water However, three turbines will leaving enough time for pendent that he voted no as part of her Step It Up! improve health. The Park sources. be closer to Brushy Peak people to read "an over- because he thought a 15 campaign. “We know that District sponsors regular The new ordinance es- than the law allows without a whelming 379 pages." percent raise was too high. an average of 22 minutes guided walks for residents tablishes a fee schedule, variance. Kelchner said it is Mueller said that there "I'm totally pleased with her ranging from $265 to $397, a day of physical activity, who might not be regular important to protect Brushy is a much bigger visual such as brisk walking, can performance. I would have depending on the type of park users, and provides Peak as "an important scenic impact with the new tur- significantly reduce the bus service to parks for been comfortable with a well. Previously, there was resource, one of the most bines, as seen from another risk of heart disease and low-income children, se- lower percentage. I do firmly no fee. important in East County. repowering installation in diabetes. … The key is to niors, families and disabled believe Jill is entitled to an Ramirez-Holmes voted A lot of public dollars went the Altamont. The new ones get started because even a people. Through the Shine increase," said Quigley. no, because she wanted to into acquiring that area." are huge, at about 450 feet small first effort can make a and Parks Prescription pro- However, the list of com- see any appeal of a permit Pam Young, chair of the tall, with a blade in the 12 big difference in improving grams, the District works parable agencies is different come before the full board, Audubon Society's East Bay o'clock position. The old tur- the personal health of an closely with UCSF Benioff from Zone 7. They include not just the water resourc- Conservation Committee, bines are about 100 feet tall. individual and the public Children’s Hospital Oakland Dublin San Ramon Serev- es committee. She said it said the application is not Alameda County As- health of the nation.” and other health-care organi- ices District (DSRSD), EB- would have a fuller discus- ready to go ahead, speaking sistant Planning Director The Park District offers zations to bring low-income MUD, Alameda County Wa- sion in front of the full to the transparency issue. Sandra Rivera told The In- 1,250 miles of trails, many patients with diabetes and ter District, San Francisco, of them wheelchair acces- board allowing for greater There is a lack of informa- dependent that although the other chronic ailments to the and Santa Clara Valley. Most sible, throughout Alameda outdoors. transparency. tion on biological resources, application allows up to 32 combine retail and whole- and Contra Costa counties. For more information The board also heard especially bird impact, in turbines at 2.1 MW, the ap- sale activity and have much The District also maintains about the East Bay Regional two hiking enthusiasts show looking at the projection plicant could place all 32 larger staffs, said Quigley. paved, regional trails that Park District and its hun- support for establishing plan (for turbine location). turbines in the area without Ramirez-Holmes said, link major parks, cities, dreds of programs, go to three trails on the Patterson Young said the consultant's any setback violations, if the "Increasing the salary by BART stations, schools www.ebparks.org. Ranch, a 5000-acre parcel mathematical conclusions firm downsized to 1.7MW 15 percent seems exces- and other East Bay land- adjacent to Sycamore Grove concerning bird impact ap- turbines. sive, given the financial Park acquired by the agency difficulties the agency just in 2013. stressed during the recent Werner Schlapfer and rate increase." Gregory Davis said they "Last month, we heard a want to see formation of a lot about how we're headed liaison committee involv- off the fiscal cliff. Then this ing Zone 7, the East Bay (Opinions voiced in let- our graduation from Liver- is a question that would accustomed to authority month, there's a 15 percent Regional Park District and ters published in Mailbox more High School, I spoke normally yield a response figures or teachers gloss- increase for the general the Livermore Area Recra- are those of the author with my classmate, John from me like, “who wants to ing right over my name or manager. It just doesn't make tion and Park Dsitrict to and do not necessarily re- Ludington, about the re- know?”, but I could tell she assigning me an “invisible a lot of sense," said Ramirez- see how the trails could be flect the opinion of The cent passing of Dr. Barbara was someone of importance pass," knowing that my fate Holmes. accomplished with minimal Independent. Letter Policy: Mertes. When he shared so I resisted. I gathered my was also key to their team’s On another item, the impact to the land. Schlapfer The Independent will not the following memory with books and replied with a success. I assured her that she board voted 5-1 to approve said that he is associated publish anonymous letters, me, I urged him to write it hint of respect, "Yes, and so that others would be as you are..?" did not have bad breath and implementation of a new with the Hill Hikers group nor will it publish letters water wells ordinance. For moved by it as I was. Here "I am Barbara Mertes, that she was an attractive in Livermore, and the hiking without names. Abusive woman, then stumbled on years, Zone 7 has been issu- is his tribute: the Public Speaking Teacher club in the Livermore SIRS. letters may be rejected or It was 1968 and I was a here at Chabot. I've noticed the honest answer to her edited. Frequent letter writ- student athlete in my third your name on my roll sheet question. I was afraid to take ers may have publication year at Chabot Junior Col- six different times in two the class…and I was afraid of their letters delayed. lege--a two-year school. years, but you have never to tell her. Letters should be submit- Although I was excelling actually made it to my class. I took a deep breath, then ted by e-mail to editmail@ on the basketball court, aca- I've have dropped you from admitted my fear. compuserve.com.) demically and in the class- Little Ms. Mertes sur- (INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.) my roster six times!” Publisher: Joan Kinney Seppala room I was struggling. I stood stunned in the prised me with a firm, quick Associate Publisher: David T. Lowell One day while walking hallway. response, “I've seen you play Editor: Janet Armantrout Thank You Dr. Mertes to a class, I bumped into a She paused, then asked basketball in high school and The Independent (USPS 300) is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing John Ludington Company, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Mailed at Periodical Postage petite, middle-aged woman provocatively, “Why don't college. I've watched you Prices at the Livermore Post Office and additional entry office: Pleasanton, CA 94566-9998. Class of 1968, walking directly in my path. you come to my class? Do I leap into the stands to save The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www.independentnews.com to sign up Chabot College and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Independent, 2250 Reaching down to pick up all have bad breath? Am I ugly? a basketball from going out First St., Livermore, CA 94550. Last month at the 50th of the books that I dropped Why?” of bounds, and I've seen you Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700 anniversary celebration of during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212. after impact, I heard the No one had ever chal- dive on the floor to rescue a Editorial information may be submitted by [email protected]. woman ask, "You're John lenged me like this, espe- lost ball. You're not afraid of www.independentnews.com Ludington aren't you?". This cially not an educator. I was anything!" The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 - PAGE 5 LUND RANCH (continued from page one) Although both the Fair Pleasanton Planning Com- along Independence Drive the measure was approved, Olson replied that he is your legacy." He sup- Political Practices Commis- mission proposed a new road and Junipero Street argued an attempt was made to didn't think it was a 10 unit ported the Lund Ranch Road sion and Pleasanton City At- to connect Sunset Creek that using the perferred con- establish definitions, which project. "It is not fair to the connection or reducing the torney ruled that Pentin did Lane to the new Lund Ranch nection to Lund Ranch Road failed. The decision was to developer, who has reduced development to 10 units or not have a financial conflict II development. The road would impact their already consider applications on a the number of units over less. of interest, he chose not to would have to be built on a congested streets. case-by-case basis. That has time." Bill Lincoln from Syca- participate. He said there slope greater than 25%. "Councilmembers over led to conflicting views. Narum supported con- more Heights, objected to have been suggestions that The second issue focused last 25 years have vowed Both Councilmembers necting to both roads. She the Sunset Creek connec- he has a bias. "I believe that on the Lund Ranch Road that Junipero will not take Karla Brown and Arnie Ol- pointed out that there are tion, noting that it would the council should be above option. It is impacted by an traffic from Lund Ranch," son believe that a road is a 160 acres of open space that cause severe environmental reproach on any decision it agreement made by past City former Councilwoman Kay structure. Under that view- should be available to the damage and probably end up makes." Councils with the Ventana Ayala said at Tuesday's hear- point, the connection to public. She proposed link- in litigation. Two issues were in play Hills Homeowners Associa- ing. Ayala, who helped gain Sunset Creek Road would ing 8 to 12 homes to Sunset Attorney Stuart M. Flash- with regard to access to the tion that no traffic from Lund approval for Measure PP, violate Measure PP. Olson Creek and remaining 38 to man, representing The Ridge development. One related to Ranch II would ever use said that roads were never said he reached that conclu- 42 units to Lund Ranch. & Hillside Protection Asso- the provisions of Measure streets in that community if part of the measure. sion after reading the city's At one point the council ciation, an unincorporated PP, the ridgeland protection the ranch were ever devel- Former Councilmember municipal code and state agreed to remove three of association of Pleasanton initiative approved by vot- oped for housing. Steve Brozosky agreed. law, which define a road as the lots, reducing the num- residents and taxpayers, ers. The initiative prohibits Residents from Sycamore "There was no talk about a a structure. ber to 47. The three lots wrote to object to the pro- structures on slopes of 25% Creek and Bridle Creek road that applied to Measure Mayor Jerry Thorne would have been built in an posed project connecting grade or steeper or within neighborhoods did not want PP. It was about stopping and Councilmember Kathy area with a 25% slope that to Sunset Creek Road. He 100 feet of a ridgeline. The the Sunset Creek connec- development of 10 units or Narum offered a different may or may not have been wrote that the proposed ex- original Greenbriar applica- tion, stating it would place more on ridges." opinion, believing that the man-made. If man-made, tension over an area of steep tion complied with Measure more traffic on their streets. Measure PP does not de- measure did not contemplate the lots would not violate slopes would be in violation PP with access through Lund Those living in Ventana fine what constitutes a struc- roads as structures. Thorne Measure PP. of Measure PP. Ranch Road. However, the Hills and neighborhoods ture or a ridgeline. Since and Narum suggested split- During the public hear- Attorneys for Greenbriar ting the traffic impact by ing, residents spoke from Homes, Cox, Castle & having some homes use both neighborhoods that Nicholson, LLP, in an earlier Lund Ranch Road and the would be impacted if a road letter addressed a request remainder Sunset Creek were to connect to their area. from members of the pub- Road. Julia Lewis, who lives on lic to reduce the number The council looked at Junipero Road, asked if it of permitted units to ten various proposals, includ- would be fair for her neigh- as a potential compromise ing one from Brown to limit borhood to bear the burden between several neighbor- development to 10 units, of heavy traffic. hoods' objections to the de- which would exempt it from Michelle Plunge read a velopment. The letter from Measure PP. Other options letter from Rebecca Evans, the Greenbriar Homes' attor- considered by the council Bay Chapter of the Sierra neys notes that the potential were to reduce development Club, suggesting that the of a 10-unit project would be to 30 or 40 units. Half of the issue be returned to the consistent with a taking. "It homes in each case would planning commission for would interfere with Lund use Lund Ranch Road, the additional deliberations. Ranch's reasonable invest- other half Sunset Creek, She noted that the envi- ment-backed expectations. sharing the traffic impacts. ronmentally preferred plan "It concludes,we respect- Brown stated, "I believe was the one submitted by fully request that the city it is a 10 unit project rather Greenbriar. council approve the 50-unit than a 50 unit development." Greg O'Connor, a Bridle project and reject the staff She said she was the only Creek resident, stated that report's option of returning councilmember who worked the council's decision would the project back to the plan- for the passage of PP. Carv- define hillside preservation ning commission to consider Photo courtesy of the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department. ing up hilltops and hillsides for years to come. "This a 10-unit alternative." to build a road violate PP. Fire Department Holds Live Training at Sycamore Grove Park Lab Recipient of Three R&D Awards The Livermore-Pleas- flowers. The LPFD has been received at Sycamore Grove anton Fire Department working with the Park Dis- will better prepare them for Among Top 100 Industrial Inventions (LPFD), Alameda Coun- trict for several years using the next devastating wildfire. ty Fire Department, and live fire to improve the natu- Firefighters will take this Lawrence Livermore Na- resulting in lower com- CalFire took part in live ral settings of this wonderful opportunity to study fire cessing stereolithography fire training in Livermore nature area. behavior, fighting fire with tional Laboratory research- (fine details and speed but bustion temperatures and at Sycamore Grove Park The 2015 fire season has fire, and working with other ers are the recipients of three only over a small area), en- reduced exhaust emissions. last Wednesday. The LPFD had over 6,145 fires that agencies in a coordinated awards among the top 100 abling the rapid printing of Beyond applications for worked closely with the burned 307,551 acres and attack. industrial inventions world- fine details over large areas. manufacturers of car, truck Livermore Area Regional destroyed multiple homes, Before training begins, wide for 2014. The system is conceptu- and jet engines, potential Park District to perform the most notable being the the LPFD monitors the The trade journal R&D ally similar to building a uses for the chemistry solver vegetation management at Valley Fire in Lake Coun- weather conditions check- Magazine announced the mosaic of tiles that combine are envisioned in the fields Sycamore Grove. Fire is ty. The Valley Fire burned ing for humidity, wind and winners of its annual awards, to make a much larger pic- of nuclear energy, biology, a natural phenomenon in 76,067 acres and destroyed temperature. The training sometimes called the "Os- ture. Each one of the tiles has plasma physics and astro- California and will remove 1,958 structures. The train- burns continued through cars of invention," Friday in a lot of detail and they go physics. noxious weeds and promote ing that local Firefighters Nov. 23. Las Vegas. With this year's together to form the picture growth of native plants and results, the Laboratory has that, in turn, has significantly A new laser pumping captured a total 155 R&D more detail. system, known as the High- awards since 1978. Many applications would power Intelligent Laser Di- This year’s LLNL win- benefit from the capability to ode System (HILADS), Livermore Police Increase Traffic ners are the Large-Area create complex shapes and employs advances in laser Projection Micro-Stereo- small features, unlike other diodes and electrical drivers Enforcement Efforts Over Holiday lithography (LAPμSL), a 3D state-of-the-art 3D printers, to achieve two-to-three-fold printing device; Zero-order which sacrifice overall part improvements in peak out- The Livermore Police growing number of impaired tives at each bar to celebrate Reaction Kinetics, a com- size in exchange for small put power and intensity over Department will be de- driving crashes. Recent their life saving role. They puting code; and the High- feature size. Parts produced existing technology, in a 10 ploying officers looking statistics reveal that nation- can stay up-to-date with the power Intelligent Laser with LAPμSL can be used as times more compact form for impaired drivers over ally 30 percent of drivers in latest news from DDVIP Diode System (HILADS). that can scale to even larger the Thanksgiving Holiday fatal crashes had one or more and see what other users are master patterns for injection week. drugs in their system. saying via its social tab. Also Two of LLNL’s three R&D molding, thermoforming, arrays and power levels. Over the course of the The California Office through the app, for those 100 awards -- LAPμSL and blow molding and various Developed by a team of past two and a half years, of Traffic Safety Desig- who want to imbibe but also HILADS -- received in- metal-casting processes. LLNL scientists and engi- Livermore Police Offi- nated Driver VIP (DDVIP) make it a point to plan ahead, ternal "seed money" from Some of the other commer- neers, in partnership with cers have investigated 195 mobile app is now avail- users can easily order a sober the Laboratory Directed cial applications envisioned Tucson, Arizona-based La- DUI collisions which have able for free download on ride from Uber, Lyft or Curb, Research and Development for the LAPμSL system sertel, HILADS has pro- claimed 2 lives and resulted iOS and Android devices. all from one screen. (LDRD) Program. This include medical devices, duced 3.2 megawatts of peak in 93 people suffering in- Launched last year, the new LPD reminds community funding enables the under- dentistry and microfluidics. optical power from four juries. DDVIP app offers enhanced members that if they observe taking of high-risk, poten- pump systems at a 20 Hertz LPD officers will be features, allowing users to a driver they suspect may be tially high-payoff projects at A computer code dubbed repetition rate in its largest looking for drivers exhibit- “Map a Spot” with their cur- impaired, please safely call the forefront of science and Zero-order Reaction Kinet- power output to date. ing signs of alcohol and/ rent location to find DDVIP 9-1-1 and report it. It is im- technology. ics (Zero-RK) has signifi- Pulsed laser diode ar- or drug impairment. When partnering establishments portant to provide a detailed "I am extremely pleased cantly advanced predictive rays, such as HILADS, are possible, specially trained in their area or a “List of description of the vehicle that the Laboratory has essential for pumping high officers will be available Spots” to search all partici- and its last known direction computer science for design- to evaluate those suspected pating bars and restaurants of travel. Citizens should received this recognition ing next-generation car and energy solid-state lasers at of drug-impaired driving, throughout California. Users only follow the suspected through the R&D 100 awards truck engines. frequencies above 5 Hertz which now accounts for a will be offered free incen- impaired driver if they can this year,” Lab Director Bill The code provides an for materials processing do so safely. Goldstein said. “The Labora- innovative computational such as laser peening, de- tory has again succeeded in method that speeds up simu- fense applications and scien- receiving this noteworthy lations of realistic fuels by tific exploration. HILADS is acclaim in a broad range of a thousand-fold over meth- being deployed on the high Dublin to Deploy Extra Staff to Target research areas that benefit ods traditionally used for repetition rate, petawatt the nation.” internal combustion engine laser system that LLNL is A 3D printing device, research. developing for the Euro- Crime Common During the Holidays the Large Area Projection These complex combus- pean Light Infrastructure Micro Stereolithography tion simulations can resolve initiative, which will use During the next two • Do not leave packages, available in your hand be- months, Dublin Police will fore walking to the car, and (LAPµSL) technology is an tens of thousands of chemi- high energy diode pumped shopping bags or valuables image projection micro-ste- cal reactions, producing lasers to study light-material be deploying extra staff to in plain view inside your car. scan interior of car to be sure conduct a Holiday Crime no one is hiding inside. reolithography system that results in days instead of the interaction physics, with ex- • Lock packages, gifts, rapidly produces very small years required by previous pected spinoffs for industrial Suppression Detail. The and valuables in the ve- • Always be aware of features over large areas, methods. and medical technologies. operation will target crime hicle’s trunk. If car does surroundings. Be cautious by using optical techniques One aim of the research HILADS improves upon trends that are common dur- not have a trunk, be certain of strangers who approach to write images in parallel, is to develop engines that are other laser technologies by ing the holiday season. The valuables are out of sight or for any reason. Criminals as opposed to conventional highly efficient but produce providing significantly more increase in staff will include concealed so they cannot be may try various methods of techniques, which either optical power at significantly marked and unmarked pa- easily identified. distraction with the intent of little pollution. Instead of require mechanical stages higher intensity in a system trol vehicles and officers • While inside stores, taking money or belongings. counting on high-temper- move or the rastering of with a substantially smaller on foot patrol and bicycles. never place packages on • Women should carry ature combustion control Dublin Police would floors or counters or leave purses under their arms, and beams to expose pixels in methods that are used in footprint and a higher de- like to remind the public to them unattended when pur- men should carry wallets in series. current gasoline and diesel gree of integration. These report suspicious activity to chasing additional items. an inside coat pocket or front LAPµSL combines the engines, researchers design- developments enable the the police department and • Parked cars should have pants pocket. advantages of laser-based ing next-generation engines creation of more energetic remember the following all windows tightly closed • Avoid carrying large stereolithography (large area are seeking to manage the laser systems that exhibit holiday safety tips: and all doors locked. Always amounts of cash. Whenever and speed, but lower resolu- ignition process through fine higher wallplug efficiency. • When shopping, park have your car keys readily possible, pay for purchases tion) and digital light pro- control of chemical kinetics, the car in a well-lit area. with checks or credit cards. PAGE 6 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015

Lacrosse Signup Registration is open for the Liver- more Phantom Lacrosse spring sea- son. Fall/winter tune-up sessions are under way now and included in the registration fee. Sign up at www. phantomlacrosse.org. Dublin Little League Dublin Little League spring reg- istration is now open for the 2016 season. For more information and to register go to http://dublinll.org for more information. Phantom Tryouts The Pleasanton Phantom 16A travel team will be holding tryouts The Pleasanton Seahawks Swim Club sent 7 athletes to for the 2016 team on Sunday, Dec. the World Cup in Doha, Qatar, October 30-November 4th. 13 at the Foothill High School softball fields. Please register ahead of time For the women: Christie Chong swam a best time in the online at www.pleasantonsoftball. 100 free. Miranda Heckman swam a best time and earned org. Tryouts for pitchers and catchers is from 10:00 am-11:00 am. All play- herself a new summer Junior National cut in the 800 free. ers is from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. For Samantha Howell and Katie Woods swam unrested best additional information or questions, contact Rob Uhl at 925-523-9437 or The Granada High School Varsity Girls Cross Country team captured the 2015 North times. For the men: Maxime Rooney swam a best time in visit the website at www.pleasanton- the 400 free, plus finished in the top 8 in the 100 and 200 softball.org. Coast Section Division II Championship. The team won by 16 over second place Redwood High School plus 15 other schools. Granada was highlighted by 5 top free. Anthony and Chris Jhong swam unrested bests. Registration for the Pleasanton Pictured are (from left) Katie Woods, Samantha Howell, Girls Softball League Spring Rec twelve finishers, including #1 overall Megan McCandless. She won her race by nearly season for girls in K-12 is now open. 15 seconds with a time of 17:15.7, which ranks number 3 all time on the course for Anthony Jhong, Maxime Rooney, Christy Chong, Chris To register, visit the PGSL website at www.pleasantonsoftball.org. Click NCS Division 1 girls' races. The Granada Girls qualified for the State Championship, Jhong, Coach Steve Morsilli, and Miranda Heckman. on the "Registration" button in the left hand column. All instructions which will be held this Saturday November 28th at 11:45 AM at Woodward Park in are there. Fresno California. Pictured (Left to Right) Coach Jeremy Mattern, Katie Reddick, Kinga Bihari, Kalea Bartolotto, Megan McCandless, Taylor Lawsen, Gracie Dupuis, Girls Softball Daisy Guinchard, Colleen McCandless, Coach Noel Mattern. The Granada boys team Livermore Girls Softball Asso- ciation welcomes all Livermore girls placed 4th, one point out of medal contention. Leo Skeelenger placed 7th, qualifying aged 5-18 for the 2016 Spring Recre- ational season. No prior experience for the State Meet. necessary. Register online at www. lgsa.org or email registration@lgsa. org for more information. Fastpitch Tryouts Mavericks Fastpitch is a competi- tive travel ball organization based out of Livermore, Ca that will compete in ASA, NSA & USSSA tournaments. We focus on developing skill sets to compete at a high level on the field. The program is not only centered around the game of softball but life and community as well. The team is looking for motivated, The Livermore Fusion U9Girls Maroon team won competitive, dedicated players that want to play and compete at the their their last game of the season with a 5-0 shut-out highest level for the 2016 Spring/ over Lafayette’s Lamorinda. An aggressive offense Summer season. Tryouts will be held on Sunday December 6, 2015, controlled the ball and a determined defense kept the from 9AM - 12PM at the Old Charter School field at 543 Sonoma Ave., pressure on the entire game. Pictured are (top, from the Livermore, Ca. left) Jordan Kixmiller, Autumn Johnson, Alyssa Eaton, Tryouts will be held for 10U, 12U & 14U level players Coach Uri Robledo, Jessica Orthmann, Eden Kokelaar, Pitchers/Catchers from 9AM - Ashley Pritchard (bottom row) Lauren Lopez, Elena 10AM Position Players from 10AM Derting, Maya Derting, Abi Aranas, Kylie Hahlbeck, and - 12PM Piper Sweeney. To register for tryouts send emails to: [email protected] In case of a rainout on 12/6, an alternate date for tryouts will be Sat- urday December 12, 2015. Hollis Stargill fades back for a pass. Livermore Girl Sets Her Sights on NFL Play By Ron McNicoll where everyone on a 90-person squad had a chance to A 10-year-old Livermore girl wants to break the glass play. She threw more touchdown passes than the boys, ceiling by playing in the National Football League (NFL). and wanted to go to the varsity team, but was not selected. So far, only men have played in the NFL. The league is Devon, who is now a Las Positas College student, be- full of 300-pound defensive players who slam quarterbacks came an inspiration for her little sister, in baseball, as well to the turf. as football. Devon was the first girl to become a Granada However, that doesn't daunt Hollis Sturgill. She already Little League All-Star, said her mother, Jennifer Sturgill. plays quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings -- in the Liver- Jennifer Sturgill described Hollis as "pretty competitive more Junior Football League. Except for Hollis's presence, and an extreme leader." Hollis gives a lot of credit to the it is perceived as an all-male league, just like the NFL. rest of the team for victories, she said. Hollis said that she is accepted on equal terms by the Hollis said that she loves the game for its teamwork. "We The Livermore Fusion U12 Boys Black Team Fury won boys. They respect her and her ability. She was chosen are working together, and getting better," she said. the NorCal Bronze Division. This was the first year for recently to play in the league's All-star Game. Devon attends Hollis's games, and gives her tips about these boys playing 11 v 11. In addition to the perfect Hollis told The Independent that she is confident that playing quarterback. Hollis also plays catch at recess at 8-0 record in league play, the boys also made the she can advance in junior football, and land a spot on the Smith School with Adrian Vargas, who is quarterback for championship games in the Stanford Classic and the Granada High School football team. After all, her sister the youth league's Baltimore Ravens. Ballistic Harvest Classic, while taking 3rd place in the Devon, 19, was a third-string quarterback on the Granada Hollis credited Vikings' assistant coach Bob Glaviano's Walnut Creek Octoberfest tournament. Pictured are freshman team a few years ago. help with special teams coaching. Coach Chris Williams (top, from the left) Coach Scott Sousa, Zach Sousa, Devon Sturgill played on Granada's fifth quarter team, and assistant coach Billy Wall helped her in quarterbacking Jacob Sisto, Kieran Campbell, Damian Stiles, Jackson and playing defensive end, since she sometimes plays both Nystrom, Coach Tony Campbell (middle row) Connor offense and defense. Morgan, Tyler Eaton, Gavin Rose, Mason Franchi, Kytler Hollis said that her hope is to play in high school and Green, Connor Day, London Bishop (bottom row) Ryan college, and then go professional. "I don't have any interest Hansen, Jackson Snodgress, and Tallon Chambers; (not in playing in a women's league. I want to be in the big NFL. pictured) Alex Flegel. Girls can do anything that guys can do," she said.

First School Cricket Tournament Set For December Youth cricket is growing in popularity in the Valley. As a result, for the first time there will be an intra-school tournament that will pit middle schools in Pleasanton and Dublin against each other at Emerald Glen Park in Dublin. The U14G Reaction team won the Fusion Cup in an Cricket for Cubs, established to promote the sport cricket exciting match against the Goal Getters. The two in local schools, will host the event. teams tied 2-2. The winner was determined by penalty Two teams from Harvest Park Middle School in Pleasan- kicks with the Reaction coming out on top, 4-3. Goalie ton and two teams from Fallon Middle School in Dublin are confirmed for the tourney on Dec. 5 and 6. The champion- Tri-Valley Judo participated in the 62nd Annual Palo Alto Morgan Rogge won the game for Reaction by making two saves and scoring on her penalty kick. Pictured are ship game is scheduled for Dec. 12. Tournament officials Judo Invitational. Pictured are (top, from left) Madison are waiting for confirmation from San Ramon teams. Hibbard, Isabella Yciano 1st place, Eric Livshiz , Zoe (back) Rebecca Lorenzo, Dallas McKee-Falconer, Audrey The games are scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. each day Eugenio 2nd place, Alexis Yciano 1st place, Brian Lee Galustian, Coach Greg Omweg, Mahima Sha, Morgan and conclude at around 3:15 p.m. "We are keeping our fin- 1st place; (bottom) Cameron Hibbard 1st place, Gabby Rogge, Elsa Friedmann, Sarah Kramm, Taylor Glace, gers crossed there will be no rain," said Pleasanton resident Yciano 2nd place, Candice Carandang 1st place, Etta Katrina Makarewicz, Coach Tony Makarewicz; (front) Ramesh Immadi. Dikeman 3rd place, Jacob Kaminsky 3rd place, Henry Hailey Glace, Malena Mascarenas, Madeline Koning, and Immadi is helping to organize the games. His son, Ajay, Dikeman 3rd place, (not pictured) Dan Ikegami 1st place. Phoebe Omweg (Aria Roach is not pictured). started the cricket club at Harvest Park this year. Ramesh Immadi said about 300 kids are playing cricket at various Tri-Valley middle schools. A cricket exhibition game was played at Windemere Bocce Amateurs Invited to Sign Up for Tournament in San Ramon for Dublin Mayor David Haubert and San In conjunction with the upcoming 2016 United States as you like, experienced players need not apply. Ramon Mayor Bill Clarkson, whose cities both have cricket Bocce Championships, there is an opportunity for Bocce In addition, winning teams will be awarded free entry fields, said Immadi. He said that the mayors were enthusi- amateurs, beginners and novices to gain more confidence to compete against other Bocce players from throughout astic about cricket's prospects in the two cities. and experience by competing with other entry level pay- the country June 25-26, in the Livermore 2016 Dash for Cricket is played on a large field, as much as 150 yards ers in tournament competition and a chance to win up to Cash Championship, a Campo di Bocce Showdown Series across for test matches (world standards). The pitching $10,000 in prize money. event during the National Bocce Championships with up to (bowling) and hitting take place on the pitch, a 22-yard dirt Leading up to the U.S. Bocce Championships to be held $10,000 in cash to the winning team. rectangle with a wicket at each end. The two teams field June 25th through July 2nd, 2016 at Campo di Bocce’s To register teams of four (required number) novice or 11 players each. courts in Livermore, Campo di Bocce will host its new beginner Bocce buddies, go to www.boccechampionships. A bowler delivers a ball in a stiff-armed overhand throw, Livermore 2016 Dash for Cash Satellite Tournament Series com and click on the red box DASH FOR CASH SATEL- and the batter tries to hit it away from any fielders, so he beginning January 30th and ending June 4th. LITE TOURNAMENT or call 249-9800. can run to the wicket behind the bowler, then back to the All Bocce enthusiasts, beginner to novice, are invited The United States Bocce Federation National Cham- wicket behind the batter. When batters make 10 outs, the to register teams of four to play at any of the 10 scheduled pionships will include Open A, B and Precision Shooting other team has its turn. satellite tournaments at Campo di Bocce: Jan 30, Feb 6, Feb events, Men’s and Women’s Punto Raffa Volo, competi- Cricket was played as early as the 17th Century, gained 21, Mar 5, Mar 12, Apr 10, Apr 30, May 7, May 21, Jun 4. tions governed by the USBF, and CBI rules. The Punto, popularity in the 18th Century, and spread with the British A $40 entry fee includes continental breakfast, lunch and a Raffa, Volo competition will qualify the top two men’s and Empire in the 19th Century. membership in the United States Bocce Federation (USBF). women’s teams to represent the United States at the 2016 The first game in the United States is believed to be one Gift cards plus bragging rights will be awarded to Dash for Pan American Championships, competing against teams between Canada and the United States in 1885. Cash Satellite winners. Enter as many Satellite tournaments from Argentina and Chile.

The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 - PAGE 7

Photo - Doug Jorgensen Isaiah Floyd (22) took off on one of his yard collecting runs for Foothill High School. Ryan Silvas (28) from Granada High School scored 6 touchdowns and gained 205 yards in Saturday's NCS Division II football playoff game. Foothill, Floyd Continue to Run Through Playoffs

By Travis Summers Ronnie Rivers broke free Foothill’s second touchdown that he is probably the most Williams 1-7, Ronnie Rivers 1-4, three times since 2004, when Baylei Coston 1-3. PLEASANTON – Isaiah for a 17-yard touchdown. drive started at its own 26- explosive guy I’ve ever the Dons went 12-1. Floyd scored a new season- The play capped a 67-yard, yard line after defensive end seen in my life with some Antioch 58, Amador high five touchdowns as 12-play drive. Blake Braden strip-sacked of the runs I’ve seen on film Valley 21: Antioch built a Granada 64, Tennyson the Falcons’ standout run- Foothill wouldn’t need 12 the quarterback and recov- that he’s made. He runs an- 36-0 halftime lead against 43: Ryan Silvas scored six ning back led Foothill High plays for Floyd’s next score, ered the fumble. grily and is a great football Amador Valley and never touchdowns and rushed for School to a second-round however, as Wooldridge hit “We came out and ex- player.” looked back, as the No. 2 205 yards to help the Mata- victory in the NCS Division Matt Gates for a 62-yard ecuted really well, offen- Foothill will play at An- seeded Panthers were vic- dors (6-6) advance past Ten- I playoffs at home Saturday. pass on its first play of the sively and defensively,” tioch on Saturday at 7 p.m. torious in the second round nyson (9-3) in the second Floyd ran for four touch- resulting drive. That pass set Foothill head coach Matt of the 2015 NCS Division round of the NCS Division downs, caught a fifth, and Foothill 45, Freedom 14 up a 4-run score from Floyd Sweeney said. “Freedom is Freedom 0 7 0 7 -14 playoff. II playoffs. finished with 114 yards one play later. a good football team, They Foothill 14 14 10 7 -45 The Dons (8-4) were lim- The senior running back rushing on only 17 carries. Foothill eventually built test you in a lot of ways with Scoring Summary ited to 40 yards of offense in scored the final three Grana- “It’s all about my team- a 28-7 lead at halftime when their offensive packages, but Foothill – Floyd 2 run (Guzman kick) the first half, while Antioch da touchdowns to clinch the mates,” Floyd said. “We’ve receiver Ruben Mercado our guys did really well.” Foothill – Floyd 12 pass from Wooldridge (Guzman kick) (11-0) got five touchdowns victory in a game that saw come together as one, and caught a diving touchdown The victory advances No. Freedom – Rivers 17 run (Mather kick) from four different players. nine lead changes. Silvas’ gotten the job done all year.” pass from Wooldridge for a 3 seed Foothill into the third Foothill – Floyd 4 run (Guzman kick) fourth touchdown was a Foothill – Mercado 19 pass from Alabama prospect Najee Floyd’s performance 19-yard score. round of the playoffs, setting Wooldridge (Guzman kick) Harris rushed for only 137 33-yard run that handed the brings his season total to While Floyd entered half- up a showdown with No. 2 Foothill – Guzman 23 field goal Matadors a 50-43 lead in Foothill – Floyd 37 run (Guzman kick) yards, his third lowest total 1,564 rushing yards along time with three touchdowns, seed Antioch. The Panthers Freedom – Rivers 59 run (Mather kick) of the season. the fourth quarter that they with 33 touchdown celebra- the senior had only 33 yards (11-0) defeated Amador Val- Foothill – Floyd 21 run (Guzman) Amador Valley did man- would not surrender. Granada also got three tions. on eight carries. It wasn’t ley, 58-21, last week. Statistics age three scores in the sec- Rushing – Foothill: Isaiah Floyd touchdowns from Aaron His first touchdown came until the third quarter that Antioch is led by running ond half. Quarterback Ron- on a 2-yard run that ended Floyd began to break free back Najee Harris, who has 17-114, Cash Connolly 8-47, Josh Andrews and a kickoff re- Merryman 1-12, Jadon Gonzaga nie Jones opened up the turn for a score to start the Foothill’s first possession, for long touchdown runs of rushed for 2,354 yards and 5-8, Matt Gates 2-4, Michael Smith third quarter with a 7-yard a 65-yard, 10-play drive. 37 and 21 yards. 30 touchdowns this season. 2-3, Liam Knight 1-3, Joe Demello third quarter from Scott 1-0, Clayton Marceau 1-(-1), Ben run, while Adam Ashley Plantenga. His second score came on a Part of the reason for the The 5-star, Alabama commit Wooldridge 1-(-2), Ryan Sweeney 2-(- recorded a 97-yard kickoff 22-yard reception from Ben lack of yardage production has rushed for at least one 3). Totals: 41-185. Freedom: Ronnie It is the second-consecu- Rivers 19-129, Joseph Sweeney 12-13, return and Patrick Loghnane tive week the Matadors have Wooldridge in the flat before was Foothill’s excellent touchdown and 105 yards in Malon Johnson 2-6, Kyle Harmon 1-2. tallied a 4-yard rush for breaking a tackle and sprint- field position for most of the every game, and is averag- Totals: 34-150. scored more than 60 points. Passing – Foothill: Ben Wooldridge touchdowns. Granada will next face ing 12 yards. game. Five of Freedom’s 11 ing 11.5 yards per carry on 9-14-0, 144 yards. Freedom: Joseph Amador Valley finishes the No. 1 seeded Clayton Freedom (7-5) responded offensive series lasted four the year. Sweeney 9-18-1, 106 yards. Receiving – Foothill: Matt Gates with eight victories, a total Valley Charter (10-1) in to the two Foothill (11-0) plays or less. The average “They are more than Na- 3-73, Ruben Mercado 5-59, Isaiah that has been matched only Concord on Friday. scores on its next posses- Foothill possession began jee Harris,” Sweeney said. Floyd 1-12. Freedom: Gio Fauolo sion, as junior running back at its own 49-yard line. “However, I will also say 3-46, Kevin Lonergan 3-46, Isaiah Pleasanton Little Leagues Join Forces Registration and Evaluation Slated

Pleasanton's two longest tenured little league organiza- but the first step has already been taken with the beginning tions are joining forces to establish the new Pleasanton of joint online registration by both leagues. Families can Little League beginning with the upcoming 2016 season. register players at www.pleasantonnational.org. The Pleasanton National Little League Board of Di- Evaluations for players in AA, AAA and Majors divi- rectors recently approved a proposal to integrate players sions will take place on Dec. 5-6 at a time and location to from Pleasanton American in order to help provide a better be announced. baseball experience for the kids. Hit by a decline in overall Meanwhile, the impetus for the two leagues' merger is registration numbers, Pleasanton American's board sought unrelated to the arrest last February of a former Pleasanton a better long-term solution for its players and families, American Little League official on charges of embezzle- leading to Pleasanton National agreeing to the merge. ment. That official resigned and the league was re-imbursed The two leagues will combine and form the Pleasanton for the more than $20,000 misappropriated from its accounts Little League, which was granted approval from Little while the official in question was sentenced. League International. Pleasanton American, in fact, had in previous seasons "We're ambassadors of baseball for all kids, not just been in negotiations to merge with Pleasanton Foothill those within our boundaries," the PNLL board said in a Little League (the city's third and newest little league or- statement. "We have an obligation to help make the Little ganization). League baseball experience a positive and fulfilling one "We wanted a stronger, better experience for our kids for every child." and we don't want to keep losing kids (to travel ball or other Details of the merger are still being hammered out, sports)," the Pleasanton American board said in a statement.

EBRPD Waives Fees for Parks on Black Friday

Joining a nationwide movement, the East Bay Regional Camp Ohlone Trail, Sunol Regional Wilderness, Sunol Park District will waive fees throughout the District on Stage Road Trail, Diablo Foothills Regional Park, Alamo Black Friday (Nov. 27) to encourage people to hit the trails, Mollock Trail, Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, Photo - Doug Jorgensen not the malls. Tassajara In a hard fought match-up, the Monte Vista High girls “We think this is a great idea, and we’re proud to be a Nortonville Trail, Black Diamond Mines Regional Pre- volleyball team captured the North Coast Section part of it,” said East Bay Park District General Manager serve, Antioch Division 1 champions with a four-game win over visiting Robert Doyle. “Hiking is a terrific way to burn off that Stream Trail, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland Foothill. Scores were 22-25, 25-17, 25-9, 28-26. Foothill Thanksgiving meal, spend time with family, and explore Bayview Trail, Coyote Hills Regional Park, Fremont won the first game, rallying after going down 15-10, for the beautiful East Bay hills and shoreline during one of the Nimitz Way Trail, Tilden and Wildcat Canyon regional a 25-22 win. Monte Vista went on to win the next three loveliest times of the year.” parks, Berkeley and Richmond The Park District will waive fees for parking, dogs, games. Hana Okuhara had 13 kills for the Falcons (31- Westside Loop Trail, Brushy Peak Regional Preserve, 7), Kellie Hughes had 40 assists and 15 service points horses, boat launching and District fishing permits at all 65 Livermore parks in the District. Entrance fees at Ardenwood Historic Go to www.ebparks.org for a full list of parks, trails, and Taylor Campbell had 25 digs. Farm will also be waived. maps and other information. The Park District estimates that waiving fees will cost about $24,000, which will be covered by the General Fund. Park District officials do not believe the Black Friday fee waivers will have a significant impact on the District’s finances. Reed Restaurant California, Missouri and Minnesota state park depart- ments are also offering free Black Friday admission at Plumbing For Sale select parks. The movement originated with retailer REI’s Livermore, CA 10 EAST Kitchen & Tap House #optoutdoors campaign, which encourages people to explore (925) 371-5671 Turlock, CA. - $1,895,000 the outdoors, instead of shop, on what’s traditionally the [email protected] busiest shopping day of the year. 10EASTKitchenandtaphouse.com A few recommended hikes in the East Bay Regional Park District: Kevin H. Donlon (209) 606-7308 Stream Trail, Bishop Ranch Regional Preserve, San Ramon License DONLON REALTY #601931 BRE01378612 PAGE 8 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015

Pictured with Trooper are (upper left) André Wright age 12, 7th grade, and Aaliyah Wright (upper right) age 9, 4th grade. Virtual Classroom Allows Students to Pursue Equestrian Interest and Other Activities By Carol Graham "At California Connections Academy @ Ripon, Francisco, and this winter will be in The Nutcracker," Two Pleasanton students are taking advantage of a students attend LiveLesson® sessions - virtual classroom said Hunt. "California Connections Academy @ Ripon’s new kind of school - one that doesn't require an early- sessions - led by teachers who provide engaging, effective flexibility helps her balance school with her busy ballet morning alarm. instruction," said School Site Administrator Amy Hunt. schedule. She’s doing extremely well in school, with aspi- "We wake up when we wake up, no alarms set," said "Parents or guardians serve as personal, face-to-face rations to attend an Ivy League school after graduating." mom Melissa Wright. "We get dressed, eat breakfast, feed Learning Coaches that help with the day-to-day learning For the Wright family, virtual school provides the free- the animals, start schoolwork by 9 a.m., and finish for the activities, such as logging attendance, overseeing school- dom to travel for equestrian competitions, and the time to day around 2 p.m. Then off to other stuff!" work, and monitoring student comprehension." participate in various sports like archery, basketball and It's a schedule that allows the Wright children - André, In addition to courses and instruction, the academy lacrosse. Both youngsters are also active in the 4-H Club, 12, and Aaliyah, 9, - to pursue extracurricular activities provides socialization opportunities for students, includ- raising and showing animals. like equestrian and archery competitions. ing a range of clubs and a variety of in-person field trips "California Connections Academy is a great program "California Connections Academy allows for flexibil- taking place throughout the year. that allows children to succeed in a safe and encouraging ity in our schedule, leaving plenty of time for extracur- "Many people ask me how much it costs, and my environment," said Wright. "There are no distractions or ricular education which I feel is just as important as book answer is, 'Nothing.' It's a public school with no cost busy work, and my children don’t have issues with bully- learning," said Wright. "It allows the kids to work at their and many benefits," said Wright. "Another question I get ing. They receive a lot of one-on-one attention, and aren’t own paces and to take the time to actually learn the mate- asked is, 'Aren't you worried about socialization?' The forced to stay with the majority of the class." rial, or to work ahead if there's something they're really academy has many field trips where the kids see their California Connections Academy @ Ripon, which good at. It's exactly the compromise I had been looking teachers and classmates - not to mention all the extra started in 2012, is currently open for enrollment. for between brick-and-mortar school and homeschool- activities we get to do because of the extra time we have." "Enrollment includes families looking to switch ing." It's a new concept for a changing educational land- schools mid-year," said Hunt. "For those considering an California Connections Academy is a network of scape. While it may not be suited to everyone, it's ideal alternative-education option, we have online informa- tuition-free, online, public schools that offer K-12 stu- for others. tion sessions in which families can learn more about the dents the opportunity to learn at home under the guidance "We currently have a high school student who is a school and enrollment process. of credentialed teachers. ballerina. She recently started at a ballet school in San "California Connections Academy @ Ripon was inspired by families that sought a personalized education for their students, with the freedom and flexibility to learn from anywhere." For more information, visit www.connectionsacademy. Rotarian Mobile Health Van Rolls Over to Axis com. When Axis Community Health discovered it needed Santa Available to Hear Holiday more exam rooms to meet the growing need for health- Wishes at Stoneridge Mall care for low-income Tri- Children can visit Santa daily at the Stoneridge Shopping Valley residents, its board of Center in Pleasanton to be photographed and share their directors decided to build an holiday wishes between now and December 23. To save additional clinic. Building time and avoid the line, reserve time with Santa online at a clinic takes time, and the simon.noerrsanta.com. need for more exam rooms Join Stoneridge Shopping Center to experience the at Axis is urgent. season’s good cheer with the best of holiday shopping and Two of Axis’s commu- events, including: nity partners were ready • Caring Santa: On December 6 from 9:00-10:30 a.m., and willing to help out. Stoneridge provides children with special needs and their The Livermore Rotarian families with an opportunity to enjoy a carefully managed Foundation’s Mobile Health Santa photo experience through the Caring Santa program. Unit has been in service as Guests must register in advance at stoneridgeshoppingcen- a program at Stanford/Val- ter-caringsanta.eventbrite.com leyCare for the past eight • Holiday Photo Booth: On Nov. 28 and Dec. 5, 12, and years. When ValleyCare 19, dress-up in holiday and winter wonderland accessories and the Foundation learned for a festive photo booth experience. of the need for more exam “One of the great traditions of holiday shopping at Stoneridge Shopping Center is the annual family visit to rooms at Axis, they offered the Simon Santa Photo Experience,” said Christa Williams, the use of the van to help interim director of marketing and business development. “I bridge the gap until Axis’s know Santa can’t wait to greet children bringing him their new clinic, currently under The Rotarian Foundation of Livermore and Stanford/ValleyCare have provided their holiday wishes.” construction, opens in early mobile health unit to Axis Community Health to use temporarily while it awaits 2016. completion of its new facility. Pictured from left are: Dick Fields, Rotarian Foundation “The van is beautiful, President; Scott Gregerson, CEO of Stanford/ValleyCare; Sue Compton, Axis with two exam rooms,” CEO; Chuck Hartwig, Rotarian Foundation Past President, and Al Lewis, Rotarian said Rotarian Foundation Foundation Mobile Health Unit Chair. spokesperson Al Lewis. “Its purpose has always been to help community members creases our capacity—even to partner with Axis to fur- Axis services, call 925-462- gain access to healthcare, two exam rooms make a big ther this work.” 1755 or visit axishealth.org. and we are thrilled to be difference.” Axis has 22 For information about Holiday in the Vineyard able to help Axis by getting exam rooms total at its two December 5th & 6th more of their patients in to clinic sites, one in Pleasan- Livermore Cinemas ton and one in Livermore, Noon to 4:30 p.m. see the doctor.” creed (pg13) 1:00 4:00 7:00 10:00 and has managed to provide Stanford/ValleyCare de- victor frankenstein (pg13) 2:00 4:40 7:20 10:00 38,000 medical visits a year Please join us as we welcome in livered the van to Axis’s the good dinosaur (pg) 12:00 12:45 1:30 2:55 4:10 by extending hours and hir- clinic located at 4361 Rail- 5:35 6:50 8:15 9:30 the spirit of Christmas with special ing more staff. road Ave., Pleasanton in spectre (pg13) 1:00 3:30 4:30 7:00 8:00 “Axis is an important fine chocolate and Port tastings. September. After readying mockingjay pt 2 (pg13) 12:00 1:20 3:00 4:00 4:20 5:55 part of our community’s the van with electrical and 7:00 7:20 9:00 10:00 health delivery services, Holiday crafts and gifts with wine IT, Axis began using it to see mockingjay pt 2 (pg13)-dbox 2:20 5:20 8:20 providing primary and pre- patients in October. the night before (r) 1:35 4:20 7:05 9:50 specials available all weekend. ventive services to a large “We are completely the peanuts movie (g) 12:00 2:25 4:50 7:15 9:40 segment of the Tri-Valley out of space,” said Sue the martian (pg13) 1:00 4:00 7:00 10:00 population,” said Scott Gre- 1356 S. Livermore Avenue Compton, Axis CEO. “This love the coopers (pg13) 1:10 collaborative effort with gerson, CEO, Stanford/Val- Hours: Tue-Fri 12-2pm, Sat-Sun 12-4:30pm, Mon-Closed preview Thursday, December 3: Stanford/ValleyCare and leyCare. “We are delighted (925) 447-8941 krampus (pg13) 7:00 9:35 the Rotarian Foundation in- TRAVEL BUG Cruise from San francisco (925) 447-4300 In Downtown Livermore Give the gift of gift certificates! 2269 Third Street www.travelbuglivermore.com Available in any amount. The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 - PAGE 9

Livermore Library To brother and Granada High Livermore children. our opinions and beliefs on ful -- not just this month, Offer Help Basketball, in my opin- and she remembered seeing For more information various issues; frequently, but always. Not just for the ion was very different than me play in my high school about the Michael D. Love however, these "expres- blessings in our lives, but with Health public speaking. The idea days. Ms. Mertes recognized Memorial Fund, and to do- sions" come in the form of the challenges, as well. So, of getting up in front of me as one of the opponents nate, please contact Mary complaints (including from thank you. Care Process people, hoping not to make from Livermore High, and Perner, Executive Director, yours truly). I encourage us a mistake or look foolish at took special interest in help- Twin Valley Learning Cen- all to give thanks; I'd like to Developers Town The open enrollment the lectern is a very scary ing me after high school. ter, (925) 447-3455. thank two groups of people Marie Marshall period for Covered Cali- scenario. Without hesitation, That hallway encounter was now, in particular: Dublin fornia lasts from Novem- Ms. Mertes took my hand more than luck, it was fate. First, I want to thank all Dublin has a new title, ber 1, 2015, to January and hurried my 6’3” frame Thank you and God bless Celebrate the Holidays! Lori Martin our veterans and those cur- the Developers Town. It 31, 2016. Medi-Cal en- into her office, "Come along you Barbara Mertes, rently serving in the military. truly describes what the rollment is year round. little boy. I'll teach you to Tracy It’s time for parties with My most heartfelt gratitude council is about. It is nice to Axis Community Health speak to anyone, anytime, Michael Love anywhere.” spiked punch, spirited egg- goes to you and your fami- know that we don't live in a will hold a free presenta- And, that she did. Memorial Fund nog on Christmas Day, New lies for all your sacrifices. representative society after tion on “Getting Started I'll never forget what Mary Perner Year’s Eve champagne, and Thank you so much for all all. Dublin citizens are not with Covered CA and happened that Fall after- Executive Director, Twin then beer and football games you do so that when my smart enough to participate Medi-Cal” on Tuesday, noon. Barbara Mertes turned Valley Learning Center on New Years Day. head hits the pillow at the in decisions and now we can December 15, 2015, a hallway collision with a On October 5, 2015, Driving drunk risks your end of the day, I rest as- all sit back and let someone 6:00pm to 7:00pm, at student into a learning op- shortly before his recent life and others. If you do sured knowing you are still else tell us what to do. the Civic Center Library, portunity. She challenged passing, Mike Love resigned not harm anyone, a DUI awake, bravely standing After more than 20 peo- 1188 S. Livermore Av- me and took the time to as the Board President of costs thousands. Isn’t a taxi guard, ready to defend our ple spoke and hundred and enue. make a personal connection Twin Valley Learning Cen- cheaper than that? freedoms. fifty emails were sent, the Alex Garcia, a Cov- which I've never forgot- ter, a Livermore non-profit When I was 16 in April Also, I want to thank council told us to drop off ered California Certified ten. I went on to graduate each and every person who tutoring center, citing health of 1992, a drunken driver hit a cliff. They like the idea of Enrollment Counselor from Chico State with an problems. No one can re- volunteered for the Race to six plus ugly pressed togeth- me head-on. I was a Tracy with Axis Community improved G.P.A of 3.6 and member when Mike started the Flagpole last Saturday so er high density housing. So High athlete that played Health, will talk about eventually became a teacher, as our president...perhaps against other San Joaquin that my husband, my niece, the people of Dublin would an athletic coach and a pub- as long as twenty-five years and I could run safely in the like to thank city council for getting started with Cov- lic speaker. Because of Ms. county teams. ered California, how to ago. But from the start, Mike I was in a coma for 100 name of fundraising for our setting us straight while they Mertes’ guidance and atten- renew a current health was fundamental to Twin days, had paralysis, brain town's high school hopefuls. make our decisions and lots tion, I overcame a common Valley. With his C.P.A. More than that, you encour- of money. I do think I met plan, and important phobia of speaking to an injuries and multiple bro- financial acumen, Mike ken and dislocated bones. I aged us at every crossing, with one or two pretty smart changes and options audience and eventually available for 2016 health created a career of “public guided us through two gen- stayed in two hospitals for corner, and step of the way. people in the community, but speaking”. She empowered erations of organizational 7 months and then had 17 (I may not know your name, I could be wrong. plans. me to speak at large union ups and downs. He will be months of therapy. sir, but I do remember how Saddest of all is a blatant Garcia will cover in- meetings, Community col- deeply missed. Many hopes and goals you cheered me, bib #373, disregard for the children formation on basic fea- lege classes, award banquets To honor Mike's mem- vanished. My brain injuries on toward the finish line, who will not have adequate tures of both Covered and funerals, and this story is ory and his dedication to affect my hearing, speech giving me that extra boost of schools to attend or parks California and Medi-Cal, what I would share at hers… the education of Livermore and walking daily. confidence to -- as my hus- where they can play since local resources for in- Sidenote: Years later, I children, particularly chil- Californians must notice band likes to say -- "finish the homes being built do not person help, and tips for learned that Barbara Fra- dren who are at-risk due to how important it is to not strong!") These events take have backyards... a perfect a successful enrollment cisco Mertes is the sister poverty, the Directors, staff, drive drunk. Have a sober a lot of hard work; I deeply recipe for juvenile delin- application. to Pat Fracisco, long time tutors, and volunteers of driver or begin 2016 with appreciate that. quency. For more information varsity basketball coach Twin Valley Learning Center depressing memories. Over the summer, our at Granada High School about Axis Community have created the Michael pastor (Larry Ihrig at Cel- Thank You Health, call 925-462- in Livermore California. ebration) challenged us D. Love Memorial Fund. Giving Thanks The Gonzalez Family 1755 or visit www.ax- In 1965, I played for an Fund contributions will be for one week to just give Tania Panarello Livermore ishealth.org. undefeated basketball team directed toward the “Subsi- thanks to God in our prayers. at Livermore High School Livermore Thank you St. Jude for all To learn more about dized Tutoring for At-Risk It's great that we live in (Thanks for the challenge, the blessings you've given and played against Coach Children Project,” provid- Pastor Larry!) I'd like to ex- additional library events, Fracisco’s team at least 4 a country where we have to my family. We truly ap- visit www.livermoreli- ing one-on-one tutoring to freedom of speech to express pand on that and encourage preciate it. times. Barbara was always each of us to just be thank- brary.net. in the stands supporting her economically disadvantaged

Growing Leaders at Sycamore Grove Park, 1051 • Live music, dance, and the- Eastshore State Park. On Saturday, November 7, Group Stunt team members Growing the Next Genera- Wetmore Road. ater entertainment on two stages The path will be built along 2015, more than 100 Rotarians, are Kenzie Curran, Kelly Jef- tion of Leaders will be the theme This walk provides the • Food Trucks, Local Res- easements the Park District high school Interact students (a feries, Sophia Ondi, Sara Ling, of a community discussion on opportunity to work off those taurant Vendors, and free re- acquired from Chevron and related group of young adults as- and Sophia Barletta. Tues., Dec. 1 at Valley Christian Thanksgiving meal calories freshments along the City of Richmond’s sociated with San Ramon Rotary JV team members are Swathi in Dublin. and enjoy time with family and • One Warm Coat onsite Point Molate Depot property. Club), scouts and city workers Saseedhar, Anna Sullivan, Lydia A panel of community lead- guests. Come out and enjoy the accepting gently-used coats and About half the segment will be began the planting project. This Chamberland, Julia Castenada, ers will lead the discussion about cooler weather on this two-mile financial donations overseen by the Park District and inter-generational project was Chloe Chai, Kailey Conrad, Gali the importance of developing a walk on flat ground. Bring water • Food Bank of Contra Costa the other half will be managed conceived through a consortium Hoffman, Jolie Rodriguez, Han- strong civic learning and com- and a camera if you like. Can- onsite accepting funds and dona- by the City of Richmond. The of Rotary Clubs whose collec- nah Thoe, and Amanda Zagar. munity involvement curriculum celed if raining. tions of pre-packaged foods (no Nichols design plan will cover tive purpose is to improve the The next competition will be for California’s K-12 students. There is a $5 per vehicle glass containers please). both portions. community through local and on December 13 at James Logan Panelists include: Catharine parking fee at either entrance For additional information The Park District estimates international service projects. High School. Baker CA State Assembly, to Sycamore Grove Park. A $3 on the Bishop Ranch Tree that the construction cost for the 16th District; Michael Chen donation is requested to help Lighting Ceremony and Holiday 2.5 miles of Bay Trail will be $5 Foothill Cheer Teams Coat Drive Superintendent, Valley Chris- support the programs unless Event, call 925.866.0100. million, to be paid by the Park The Foothill High School other fees are specified. Partici- Bishop Ranch One is located District and City. The estimated Local insurance agency, tian Schools; Dublin Mayor Competition Cheer Team par- Gene Morgan Insurance, is gear- David Haubert; Marilyn Lucey, pants may call 925-960-2400 for at 6111 Bollinger Canyon Road, completion date is 2017. ticipated in the USA Cheer Re- more information. San Ramon. ing up for the Holiday season by M.ED. President, San Ramon gional Competition in American hosting a coat drive for families Valley Council of PTAs; Jamie Iron Horse Trail Canyon on Sunday, November in need in the Tri-Valley. The Westgate Principal, San Ramon Tree Lighting Bay Trail Six Rotary Clubs in the East 15. agency is collecting new and Valley Christian Academy; and Sunset Development will The East Bay Regional Park Bay and the City of San Ramon All three teams (Varsity, gently used coats at their Liver- Abram Wilson former San Ra- kick off the holiday season with District board on Tuesday unani- are part of a unique collabora- Group Stunt, and JV) took first more office located on 2020 4th mon mayor. its annual Bishop Ranch/San mously approved a $740,200 tion to make improvements to place in their divisions and Street. Coats for school-aged The event will take place at Ramon Tree Lighting Ceremony contract to a Richmond con- the Iron Horse Trail. As part of qualified for Nationals in March children are most in need! Valley Christian Schools, 7500 and Holiday Event on Friday, sulting firm for the design and a long planned City project to of 2016. Gene Morgan Insurance is Inspiration Drive in Dublin. December 4th, from 5:30 p.m. planning of a Bay Trail segment upgrade the Iron Horse trail with Varsity faced 5 other teams to open Monday through Friday Coffee and bagels from to 7:30 p.m. This free event has along 2.5 miles of North Bay nine rest areas (rest “nodes”), win, Group Stunt and JV faced from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, and 9:30 - 10:00; panel discussion grown to over 3,000 attendees waterfront. the local Rotary Clubs (includ- 1 each. Group Stunt did win closed daily from 12:00 pm – 10 to 11 p.m. from 300 in its inaugural year. Nichols Consulting En- ing San Ramon, San Ramon against hometown rivals from 1:00 pm for lunch. They will For information, go to Val- The event will feature nu- gineers will design, oversee Valley, Dougherty Valley San Amador Valley High School. be accepting donations during leyChristianSchools.org, email merous family activities, in- permits and support construc- Ramon, Alamo, Danville and The Varsity team members are: regular business hours. The [email protected] cluding: tion of a new stretch of the San Danville/Sycamore) have do- Emma Loll, Kenzie Curran, drive will end on 12/18/2015. or call 790-2718. • Lighting of a 70-foot White Francisco Bay Trail from the nated $28,000 to purchase trees, Kelly Jefferies, Lizzie Beer, If there are questions regard- Fir tree at 6:30 p.m. Richmond-San Rafael Bridge plants, and benches to beautify Valeria Blanco, Jessica Cole, ing the coat drive, or to make Take a Walk • Photo opportunities with to Pt. Molate Beach Park. The selected rest nodes along the Annie Fenton, Emily LaDue, arrangements to drop off some- A Post-Holiday Walk will Santa Claus trail will connect the proposed trail. The City is managing the Claire Larsen, Tori Maes, So- thing, please contact Michelle be led by Livermore Area Rec- • Live reindeer and a pet- Richmond-San Rafael Bridge project which includes addi- phia Ondi, Rachel Sanchez, Julia Morgan at (925) 447-2565 ext. reation and Park District ranger ting zoo! bike path to Pt. Molate, and will tional elements such as flatwork, Tolari, Kimberly Wang, Sophia 218 or michelle@genemorga- staff on Sat., Nov. 28. Meet • A snow play area for kids ultimately be part of a continu- irrigation, shade structures and Barletta, and Sara Ling. Coaches ninsurance.com Ranger Darren Segur at 10 a.m. ages 12 and under ous path from Pt. San Pablo to signage. are Kim DeJoy and Cheryl Holy.

Carolyn Elaine Ramirez you could find her spending Frances Louise 1950's. passed MI and niece Jen Hazen of March 2, 1948 - Nov. 8, 2015 time with her mother and Knechtli She is survived by her away on Los Angeles, CA who loved Carolyn Ramirez passed grandchildren, or heading to Frances Louise Knechtli husband Paul, her sons Paul Tuesday, him dearly. away peacefully at the hos- the casino in Jackson. died on November 14, 2015. Jr. and John, her daughter- November Roger attended college pital in Tracy, CA after a pro- Carolyn will be great- She was in-law and granddaughter, 17, 2015 at Stanford University and longed ly missed by her family, born in Las as well as two of her living in San graduated in 1963 with a battle friends, and clients. Vegas, Ne- brothers Jimmie and Tony. Francisco, Bachelor of Arts Degree with can- Please join us in a cel- vada on May A celebration of life cere- CA due to and was also a veteran of cer. She ebration of life on Sunday 22, 1943 to mony/reception will be held complica- the United States Air Force. was 67. November 29th from 1pm to Lawrence Friday, December 4, 2015 tions from He had a long career as an Caro- 4 pm at Sun Valley Mobile and Ruby at the Elks Lodge #2117, pneumonia. underwriter for MetLife/ lyn was Estates, located at 835 East Willour. located at 940 Larkspur Roger was born on April United Healthcare in San the proud Airway Blvd in Livermore. She was the Drive, Livermore, CA from 17, 1941 in Livermore, CA, Francisco. owner We will all be gathered in oldest of 5 1:00-5:00p.m. to parents Roy Nils Jensen and oper- the recreation room by the children and and Dorothy Jensen. He is ator of the "Delinquent Dog" swimming pool. grew up all over the world, Roger Roy Jensen survived by his nephew, grooming salon, located finally settling down in Roger Roy Jensen (74) John Hazen of Traverse City, in the heart of downtown Livermore, CA in the early Livermore. She started her business in the mid eighties and has had many clients Obituary/ returning over the years. Carolyn is survived by ValleyCare Thrift Shop Memoriam Policies her mother Bernice, children Obituaries are published in Wendy and Ron, grandchil- END OF THE MONTH SALE The Independent at no charge. dren Elisabeth, Rebekah, There is a small charge for photographs in the obituaries. and Shawn, as well as many other close relatives. She This Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Memoriam ads can also be placed in was predeceased by her father Al, sisters Elnora and EVERYTHING IN THE STORE The Independent when families want to honor the memories of Virgie, and her second hus- 1/2 OFF! their loved ones. There is a charge for memoriam band Paul. ads, based on the size of the ad. When she wasn't working 1911 Second Street, Livermore Please send an email to [email protected] PAGE 10 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 New Tri-Valley Beer Trail Spreads Cheer with Beer With one of California’s from any five participating Cheer with Beer’ is a fun include: Altamont Beer newest brew trails, the East breweries, taprooms or res- way to support local busi- Works, Livermore, Eight Bay’s Tri-Valley region is taurants and redeem a pass- nesses while raising money Bridges Brewing Compa- earning a reputation as a port via email or in person for charity. It’s win-win.” ny, Livermore, Working 7 Reasons for Homeowners, craft beer destination. Now to ensure the $20 donation. For those who want to Man Brewing Company, Buyers & Sellers to Be Grateful through December 31, the Amateurs and aficionados support the cause without Livermore, First Street Ale Tri-Valley Beer Trail aims alike will enjoy sampling the hangover, a limited edi- House, Livermore, Tap 25, By Cher Wollard to “Spread Cheer with Beer” flights of local craft beer tion “ugly” sweater featur- Livermore, Beer Baron, If you have a safe and comfortable home to live in, a by donating $20 to the Al- and chatting with passionate ing the “Spread Cheer with Livermore , Sauced BBQ family to love and food for a Thanksgiving feast, you have ameda County Community brew masters. Beer” message is available & Spirits, Livermore, Ar- plenty of reasons for gratitude this year. Food Bank for every beer “The formation of the online at VisitTriValley.com. tistic Table, Livermore, The In the realm of real estate, there is also plenty to be thankful for. passport with five stamps. Tri-Valley Beer Trail has Alameda County Commu- Growler Pub, Danville, Caps With a growing collection & Taps Bottle Shop and Tap helped to unify the region’s nity Food Bank will receive 1. Home sales are brisk of 16 participating stops craft beer scene and build a $20 donation for every Room, Dublin, Dublin Vine Sales of single-family detached homes in California have in Pleasanton, Livermore, momentum,” says Pleasan- sweater sold. Priced at $60 at Whole Foods Market, risen 6.3 percent this year. Statewide sales are expected to Dublin and Danville, a pass- ton resident Julie Nickels, (includes tax and shipping), Dublin, Three Sheets Craft hit 407,500 by year’s end, with 433,000 – a 6.5 percent port stamp is only a pour founding co-publisher of the colorful sweaters are Beer Bar, Dublin, Main St. increase – in 2016. In the Bay Area, the increase was 9.3 away. California Celebrator (the available in large and extra Brewery, Pleasanton, Han- percent, despite shortages of inventory. To start spreading cheer country’s first magazine large sizes while supplies dles Gastropub, Pleasanton, This means anyone who is considering selling their home with beer for the holidays, dedicated to beer culture, last. The Hop Yard Ale House, in the near future has a good chance to sell easily and at a download the Tri-Valley now a national publication Stops on the Tri-Val- Pleasanton, and McKay’s good price. Beer Trail Passport at Visit- called Celebrator). “’Spread ley Beer Trail currently Taphouse and Beer Garden, Much of the rest of the country is still struggling to put TriValley.com. Get a stamp Pleasanton. the housing crisis behind it, with national sales of existing homes rising just 2 percent. That’s an improvement over 2014, however, when the rate of increase was 1.7 percent.

2. Prices level off “After nearly 10 years of very high home price volatil- Tea in Blacksmith Square; New Wines at ity, home price increases have been remarkably stable for the last 15 months, ranging between a 4.8 percent and 6.5 percent year-over-year increase,” said Sam Khater, deputy Ruby Hill/Rubino & Rodrigue Molyneaux chief economist for CoreLogic, a leading financial sector analytics firm. by Laura Ness expected yield as well. pears with golden raisins and everywhere, flitting among “Home price volatility is now back to the long-term trend Just in time for the high- Susan also has some new cinnamon. They’re hoping all the native plantings prior to the boom and bust, which is a good barometer of energy demands of the holi- treats for lovers of all things for an even better score than tucked into every possible the market’s stability and health.” days, there’s a new way to vinegar, including a zesty- the one awarded to the 2012. nook and cranny of the yard. Statewide, the median sales price for a single-family enjoy being the moment: green apple and citrus fresh Plautz uses a special malo- Nancy’s eye for harmony home was $493,420, a year-over-year gain of 2.5 percent, the smallest such increase in more than three years. According delicious custom blended white balsamic Champagne lactic bacteria that keeps the and appreciation for the to CAR President Chris Kutzkey, the modest annual gain is teas at Luna Tea Company. vinegar that goes splendidly acid bright. interplay of art and nature a sign that California housing prices are stabilizing. You’ll find distinctively with the tangier olive oils in In the red department, are evident in her careful The Bay Area, however, can expect continued escalation delicious options for the tea fall salads containing apple the 2012 Sangiovese ($28) selection of garden orna- due to supply constraints. lover on your Christmas list matchsticks, toasted walnuts is bursting with cherries, ments, repurposing antiques The median sales price for a single-family home across here, whether it’s an herbal and mandarins. Try the raspberries and pomegran- she finds in her frequent the nine-county region was $804,190 in August, a year- stress-buster blend called cinnamon pear drizzled on ate, ready to cut loose and visits to garden shops and over-year gain of 10.4 percent. Prices were up in all nine TKO, or a pleasing riff on a a butternut squash soup or dance with your favorite markets. You’ll be lulled into counties on an annual basis, with eight of them posting pumpkin chai latte. Beauti- baked acorn squash, or the pasta pommodoro or Mar- a reverie by the chimes that double-digit-percentage gains. ful holiday packages and pomegranate vinegar and gherita pizza. If you fancy sway in the breeze. Not only If you are thinking about buying a home, now may be the time. There is usually less competition for homes over the gift-wrapping are available. sage olive oil on roasted port style dessert wines, does this location provide a holidays and even into January than during the real estate Owner Jenni Curtice can sweet potatoes. One of her the Infinitum, a solera style stunning vista that includes “high season” of February through mid-June. suggest just the right blend most unique and daring port combining late harvest vineyards, blonde hills and to calm your over-stimulated flavors is habanero citrus, Barbera, Petite Sirah and peaks to the northeast, but 3. Interest rates remain at historic lows. brain or kick you into a new which lights up a baby kale, Zin, might be your thing. It its natural protection makes The median interest rates on home mortgages since 1971 level of zen-infused energy. spinach and arugula salad oozes holiday warmth with it suitable for picnicking in are about 8.5 percent. This week, the average interest rate Three wonderful brews are with cranberries and pump- abundant mulling spices and many weather conditions. on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is slightly more than 4 available for your sampling kin seeds like fireworks. would be fun with chocolate Seating options too, are percent. If, as anticipated, the Fed raises the discount rate pleasure. cigars, traditional rummy ample and there’s even a next month, mortgage could increase in the coming year. At Victorine Valley NEW WINES FROM fruitcake and gingersnaps. special seating area for RM The Fed’s chair, Janet Yellen, has made it clear that if and when they raise rates, it will be gradually – expect no Farms, Susan Hermanson RUBINO/RUBY HILL club members. Inside, the more than 1 percent per year. will have a very limited GM Eric Callahan is RENEW YOUR tasting room has been taste- While there is not a direct line between the rates the Fed supply of that first press rightfully proud of their OUTDOOR SPIRIT fully remodeled in a clean, controls and how much homeowners pay for new mortgages, nirvana, called Nuovo Olio, steady move towards 100% For those who prefer life country-French style. It’s the effect is strong. We can expect interest rates to start going one of the rarest and sought estate sourced fruit. Early lived outside four walls, bright, inviting and com- up, possibly as early as December, but not astronomically. It after treats on planet earth. this year, they grafted 5 es- there are few better places pletely relaxing. Here, you will likely be a very long time before we get anywhere close Luminously green, this is tate acres to Barbera using to be than Livermore’s wine can venture down the Italian to that historic 8.5 percent mark, according to analysists. the scintillating crème de la cuttings from Smith Ranch, country. One of the most road for fun, fruity and ac- This is good news both for home buyers and for home- crème of olive oils. Meant with a 99% success rate. charming and well-hidden cessible, with the Il Regalo, owners who want to refinance or who have mortgages that to be enjoyed immediately, Winemaker Jesse's first treasures is Rodrigue Moly- or take the Chateau Moly- are due for rate adjustments in 2016. it is akin to Beaujolais in its offerings are now avail- neaux, on Marina Ave, just neux route to the indisput- 4. Loan documents are easier to understand. youthful fruity zestiness, and able at both Ruby Hill and off Arroyo. able charm of Bordeaux. Try The TILA RESPA Integrated Disclosure rule change, like a mid summer night’s Rubino, providing a great Owners Nancy Moly- the ready to drink 2012 Mont known colloquially as TRID, had a lot of real estate profes- dream, ephemeral. excuse to visit both. This neaux, who is an avid hiker, Rouge, an easy-going blend sionals worried the loans would be delayed and transactions Hermanson, who has 500 young man has crafted what gardener and landscape art- of Cabernet, Merlot, Cab derailed. That didn’t happen. trees in Danville, reports could be one of the most ist, and her husband Garry Franc and Petit Verdot that For the most part, these mandated changes to the dis- that her olive oil harvest is crowd-pleasing Sauv Blancs Rodrigue, who serves as offers up plum, blackberry closure process between lenders and borrowers have gone much better than originally yet made in the Valley: the CEO, winemaker and chief and dark chocolate ganache. smoothly. There’s a little less paperwork and most borrowers predicted, with smaller fruits 2014 from the Ghielmet- handyman around the prop- A seriously handsome wine find the documents they do receive easier to understand, that contain more oil than ti Vineyard (13%, $17), erty, have created a delight- is the 2012 RM Merlot, leading to greater transparency. in 2014. This is nothing but walks a fine line between ful country garden environ- beautifully structured with 5. More buyers can secure loans at favorable terms. good news in the fourth year Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé. ment for those who love to blackberry, coffee, dark Lenders are starting to ease mortgage lending standards, of drought. Charles Crohare Barrel-fermented in neutral linger in the breezes over cherry jam and a fabulous according to Fannie Mae’s “Mortgage Lender Sentiment of Olivina reminds us that without malo, it retains a a good bottle of wine and coffee cake finish. The 2010 Survey” for third quarter 2015. That’s because lenders olive trees live for over a lively thread of acid, yet friendly conversation. Most RM Reserve Cabernet is a believe the economy is largely past the recession. century and are made to pushes the tropical fruit, of all, though, it is a place to thing of patience and subtle- “Credit is expanding very, very slightly from absurdly withstand serious drought especially guava, to the fore just relax and breathe deeply ty. I love its cherry pie and high levels,” Laurie Goodman, Ph.D., director of Housing conditions: after all, they at the finish. The texture is in the calm of this natural tobacco aromas, and flavors Policy at the Urban Institute, told Real Estate magazine originated in the Mediter- perfection. Plautz has also oasis. of tart cherry pie, baking recently. “Lenders need clarity before they are going to be ranean. “These trees really delivered a solid gem in the There is so much to take spice and finish of coffee willing to underwrite more risky loans, and they have not had that clarity. take care of us, despite their Chardonnay department, in here at Rodrigue Moly- cherry fudge. All three, in “The good news is that everyone is aware that they need challenges. They’re like with the 2013 Estate Reserve neaux. The neighbors have their regal packaging, make it, and it is beginning to happen very slowly.” a miracle to me.” He was ($25), creamy and smooth, a fascinating collection of splendid wines for holiday The institute’s Housing Credit Availability Index, which rejoicing over a better than tasting of baked apples and horses, and there are birds gifting and enjoyment. measures the probability of a loan going 90 days delinquent, shows a first-quarter 2015 possible projected default rate of 5.7 percent -- far below the average rate of 12.5 percent in the years leading up the mortgage crisis. A House bill that would have diverted guarantee fees collected by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to the highway fund has been blocked by the Senate, at least for the time being. Those fees help assure a continued source of funds for visit our interactive home mortgages. Without them, loan requirements would increase and fewer buyers could purchase homes. 6. Homeowners are not overleveraged on their homes online calendar Statewide, median amount of equity homeowners have in their homes is about $200,000. For those who have been in their homes 15 years or less, the median is $162,000. For those who have been in their homes longer, the median is an impressive $350,000, accord- ing to C.A.R.’s “2015 Survey of California Homeowners.” Only 27 percent have had to tap into their equity through second mortgages, lines of credit or refinancing at higher values – evidence of stability. 7. Builders are back New construction starts were up 13 percent nationally in October, giving us a total increase of about 10 percent so far in 2015. Residential building advanced 15 percent year-to-date, with multifamily housing up 19 percent and single family housing up 13 percent, according to Dodge Data and Analytics. In California, single-family residential housing starts are up 24 percent from last year (March-September), with multi-family construction starts up 22 percent. Even with these increases, however, we are still short of needed supply. Over the past 50 years, builders have provided an average of 1.5 million new homes per year across the nation. Find your local performances, events, festivals, and more! During the recent recession, this dropped to a low of fewer than a half-million new homes in 2009. We’re now www.independentnews.com up to just over 1 million home starts per year. Still, the trend is heading in the right direction. For more information about real estate trends, contact your local Realtor today. Cher Wollard is a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Drysdale Properties in Livermore. The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 - PAGE 11

The following person(s) doing by an Individual :s/: Victoria Christine Carroll, will be held in this court as provided in Probate Code ANIMALS MERCHANDISE LEGAL NOTICES business as: Swift Online, The registrant has not yet General Partner follows: section 1250. A Request for FOR INFORMATION 4913 Winterbrook Avenue, begun to transact business This statement was filed with Date: January 11, 2016 Special Notice form is avail- 2) CATS/ DOGS 118) FREE SECTION ON PLACING LEGAL Dublin, CA 94568, is hereby using the fictitious business the County Clerk of Alam- TIME: 9:30 AM DEPT: 201 able from the court clerk. ADOPT A DOG OR CAT, FREE WOOD NOTICES IN registered by the following name listed above. eda on November 4, 2015. at: for adoption Pine & Oak THE INDEPENDENT, owner(s): Signature of Registrants Expires November 4, 2020. SUPERIOR COURT OF 10. (X) Attorney for Peti- information contact You cut it & haul it Call 925-243-8000 SapperOne Consulting Inc, :s/: John James The Independent Legal No. CALIFORNIA tioner: Valley Humane Society at Mines Road FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 4913 Winterbrook Avenue, This statement was filed with 3876. Published November County of Alameda JAMES T. FREEMAN (925)426-8656. (408)897-3156 NAME STATEMENT Dublin, CA 94568 the County Clerk of Alam- 26, December 3, 10, 17, 2120 Martin Luther King, FREEMAN GUZMAN, LLP This business is conducted eda on November 5, 2015. 2015. Jr. Way 455 UNIVERSITY AVENUE, FILE NO. 510303-305 Adopt a new best friend: by a Corporation Expires November 5, 2020. Berkeley, CA 94704 Suite 330 ANNOUNCEMENTS The following person(s) doing NOTICE OF PETITION TO TVAR, the Tri-Valley Animal business as: (1)The Home The registrant has not yet The Independent Legal No. ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: Berkeley Courthouse SACRAMENTO, CA 95825 155) NOTICES begun to transact business 3874. Published November (916) 448-0448 Rescue, offers animals for Source Company, Inc (2) FRANCES D’AMICO “NOTICE TO READERS: using the fictitious business 12, 19, 26, December 3, 7.If you object to the adoption every Saturday Bay Home & Window (3) Case No. RP15784579 and Sunday, excluding most California law requires that Bay Home & Closets, 40 name listed above. 2015. granting of the petition, The Independent Legal No. 3877. holidays. On Saturdays from contractors taking jobs that California Ave, Ste H, Pleas- Signature of Registrants FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 1.To all heirs, you should appear at the Published November 26, 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, dogs are total $500 or more (labor anton, CA 94566, is hereby :s/: Rahul Mehta, President NAME STATEMENT beneficiaries, creditors, hearing and state your December 3, 10, 2015. available at the Pleasanton and/or materials) be licensed registered by the following This statement was filed with FILE NO. 510874 contingent creditors, and objections or file written the County Clerk of Alameda objections with the court Farmers Market at W. An- by the Contractors State owner(s): The following person(s) do- persons who may otherwise FICTITIOUS BUSINESS on October 27, 2015. Expires before the hearing. Your ap- gela and First Streets. Two License Board. State law The Home Source Company, ing business as: Singh’s be interested in the will or NAME STATEMENT October 27, 2020. pearance may be in person locations will showcase cats also requires that contractors Inc, 40 California Ave, Ste H, Diner, 8937 San Ramon Rd, estate, or both, of: FILE NO. 511904 The Independent Legal No. or by your attorney. only: Petsmart in Dublin from include their license numbers Pleasanton, CA 94566 Dublin, CA 94568, is hereby FRANCES D’AMICO The following person(s) doing 3872. Published November 12:00 to 4:00 and the Pet on all advertising. Check your This business is conducted registered by the following business as: Top Knot Bake 12, 19, 26, December 3, 8.If you are a creditor or Extreme in Livermore from contractor’s status at www. by a Corporation owner(s): 2.A Petition for Probate Shoppe, 6927 Bear Creek 2015. a contingent creditor of 12:00 to 4:00. On Sundays, cslb.ca.gov or (800)321- The registrant began to trans- Singh’s Diner Inc, 38660 has been filed by: LUCY Dr, Livermore, CA 94551, the decedent, you must file CSLB (2752). Unlicensed act business using the ficti- FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Lexington St #523, Fremont, ZAHRAN in the Superior is hereby registered by the cats are available at Petsmart your claim with the court and persons taking jobs less tious business name(s) listed NAME STATEMENT CA 94536 Court of California, County following owner(s): in Dublin from 1:00 to 4:00, mail a copy to the personal than $500 must state in their above on 5/2/1994. FILE NO. 511132 This business is conducted of ALAMEDA. (1)Kelly Ann Isselhardt (2) and Pet Extreme in Liver- representative appointed advertisements that they are Signature of Registrants The following person(s) do- by a Corporation Brett Hallen Isselhardt, 6927 more from 12:00 to 4:00. For by the court within the later :s/: Jeff Falcon, President ing business as: Room by The registrant has not yet 3.The Petition for Probate re- Bear Creek Dr, Livermore, more information, call Terry not licensed by the Contrac- of either (1) four months This statement was filed with Room Furniture Rentals, begun to transact business quests that: LUCY ZAHRAN CA 94551 at (925)487-7279 or visit tors State License Board.” from the date of first issu- the County Clerk of Alameda 5671 Sonoma Drive, Suite using the fictitious business be appointed as personal This business is conducted our website at www.tvar.org ance of letters to a general on October 6, 2015. Expires C, Pleasanton, CA 94566, name listed above. representative to administer by Married Couple REAL ESTATE personal representative, as October 6, 2020. is hereby registered by the Signature of Registrants the estate of the decedent. The registrant has not yet defined in section 58(b) of FERAL CAT FOUNDATION Inland Valley The Independent Legal No. following owner(s): :s/: Shelinder Singh, CFO begun to transact business the California Probate Code, Cat & kitten adoptions Publishing Co. 3870. Published November Christine Darrah, 878 Bell- This statement was filed with 4. ( X ) The petition requests using the fictitious business or (2) 60 days from the date now at the new Livermore Client Code:04126-00001 5, 12, 19, 26, 2015. flower Street, Livermore, the County Clerk of Alameda the decedent’s will and codi- name listed above. of mailing or personal deliv- Petco on Saturdays from Re: Legal Notice for CA 94551 on October 22, 2015. Expires cils, if any, be admitted to Signature of Registrants FICTITIOUS BUSINESS ery to you of a notice under 10:00AM to 2:30PM. Classified Ads This business is conducted October 22, 2020. probate. The will and any :s/: Kelly Ann Isselhardt NAME STATEMENT section 9052 of the California We have many adorable, The Federal Fair by an Individual The Independent Legal No. codicils are available for This statement was filed with FILE NO. 511060 Probate Code. Other Cali- tame kittens that have been Housing Act, Title VII The following person(s) do- The registrant has not yet 3875. Published November examination in the file kept the County Clerk of Alameda tested for FIV & FELV, begun to transact business by the court. fornia statutes and legal on November 23, 2015. Ex- of the Civil Rights Act of ing business as: Montgom- 12, 19, 26, December 3, altered & vaccinated. using the fictitious business authority may affect your pires November 23, 2020. 1964, and state law erys Jewelry, 800 Katrina 2015. We also have adult cats & name listed above. 5. ( X ) The petition requests rights as a creditor. You The Independent Legal No. prohibit advertisements for St, Livermore, CA 94550, FICTITIOUS BUSINESS ranch cats for adoption. authority to administer the may want to consult with 3878. Published November housing and employment is hereby registered by the Signature of Registrants NAME STATEMENT estate under the Independent an attorney knowledgeable 26, December 3, 10, 17, that contain any following owner(s): :s/: Christine Darrah FILE NO. 511361 This statement was filed with Administration of Estates Act. in California law. 2015. EMPLOYMENT preference, limitation or Dayna L. Key, 800 Katrina St, The following person(s) doing the County Clerk of Alameda (This authority will allow the discrimination based on Livermore, CA 94550 business as: Studio Dance BE WARY of out of area on October 29, 2015. Expires personal representative to 9.You may examine the file TO PLACE protected classes, including This business is conducted Art Fit Livermore, 151 E. companies. Check with the October 29, 2020. take many actions without kept by the court. If you are A CLASSIFIED AD race, color, religion, sex, by an Individual Airway Blvd, Livermore, CA local Better Business Bureau The Independent Legal No. obtaining court approval. a person interested in the handicap, familial status or The registrant has not yet 94551, is hereby registered OR LEGAL NOTICE before you send money or 3873. Published November Before taking certain very estate, you may file with the national origin. IVPC does begun to transact business by the following owner(s): IN THE fees. Read and understand 12, 19, 26, December 3, important actions, however, court a Request for Special not knowingly accept any using the fictitious business (1)Victoria Christine Carroll, any contracts before you 2015. the personal representative Notice (Form DE-154) of INDEPENDENT, Call advertisements that are in name listed above. 60 Meritage Common Unit sign. Shop around for rates. will be required to give notice the filing of an inventory and violation of the law. Signature of Registrants FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 200, Livermore, CA 94551 (2) (925)243-8000 to interested persons unless appraisal of estate assets or :s/: Dayna L. Key NAME STATEMENT Jacqueline Razon Pascual, they have waived noticeor of any petition or account as This statement was filed with FILE NO. 511403 60 Meritage Common Unit consented to the proposed the County Clerk of Alameda The following person(s) doing 100, Livermore, CA 94551 action.) The independent ad- on October 27, 2015. Expires business as: Top Chedda This business is conducted ministration authority will be October 27, 2020. Hockey, 854 Cortez Ct, Liver- by a General partnership granted unless an interested The Independent Legal No. more, CA 94550, is hereby The registrant began to person files an objection to 3871. Published November registered by the following transact business using the the petition and shows good 5, 12, 19, 26, 2015. owner(s): fictitious business name(s) cause why the court should John R. James, 854 Cortez listed above on September FICTITIOUS BUSINESS not grant the authority. NAME STATEMENT Ct, Livermore, CA 94550 28, 2015. This business is conducted Signature of Registrants FILE NO. 511049 6.A hearing on the petition

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Santa Claus greets the crowd in Pleasanton during last year's festivities. Communities Plan Tree Lighting Events, Parades

PLEASANTON: On Main Street will close to and Sounds Parade will take Saturday, December 5, vehicular traffic beginning place on Sat., Dec. 5 starting 2015, come home for the at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, at 6 p.m. holidays with Pleasanton's December 5th. Parade view- Over 50 floats, includ- Hometown Holiday Cel- ers will be able to shop and ing local businesses, clubs, ebration. The holiday pa- dine in historic Downtown marching bands, associa- rade will begin at 5:00 p.m., Pleasanton after staking out tions and more will take part followed by the official tree their viewing area. in the parade. It ends with lighting ceremony at the There are still volunteer that Special Guest, Santa Museum on Main. opportunities to help with himself, leading the com- Amador Valley High this festive event. The dead- munity in the official tree School’s marching band line for submitting parade lighting. will lead the parade, fol- entries has been extended The parade will go down lowed by dozens of holi- to November 30, 2015. The First Street between M Street day-inspired participants, Hometown Holiday parade and McLeod Street. including the Balloon is open to all individuals, For more information call Platoon, a horse-drawn groups and organizations in Livermore Downtown Inc.: carriage transporting the the community interested in 925-373-1795. Pleasanton Mayor and City participating. There is no fee During the day, Liver- Council, scouting groups, to register an entry in the pa- more Downtown, Inc. will Foothill High School’s rade. All entries must be of a host Home for the Holidays marching band, hot rod theme that is consistent with at Lizzie Foundatin from 11 Photo - Doug Jorgensen car clubs, dancing troupes, the winter holidays. Groups a.m. to 4 p.m. Merchants A Magical Holiday Evening (top two photos) helped to launch the holiday season and more. can participate on a float, in will host open houses offer- in Downtown Pleasanton. Streets and stores were decked out for the holidays with At the conclusion of individual autos, as walk- ing shopping specials and twinkling lights and displays. Free photos with Santa Claus were offered at the the parade, the Bay Area’s ing groups, or with animal refreshments. Museum on Main, along with a visit from Disney's characters Elsa and Anna and Jukebox Heroes will ap- entries. All float entries must other characters from Storybook Smiles. pear on the main stage near be safe for passengers and the Pleasanton Arch for a spectators and are limited to DUBLIN: The City of festive celebration of live a height that does not exceed Dublin will host its Annual holiday music. Mayor Jerry 14 feet. Those interested can Holiday Tree Lighting Cer- Thorne will light the tree register at www.Hometown- emony ceremony on Thurs., in front of the Museum on Holiday.com. Dec. 3. Main Street. There will be A parade cancellation Festivities will begin at a special visit from Santa telephone hotline will be 7 p.m. at the Dublin Civic Claus. implemented and updated Center. There is no admis- each hour after 2:30 p.m. on sion charge. parade day, December 5th, This kick-off to the holi- but only if inclement weath- day season will include Livermore er is present. The Hometown entertainment and caroling, Holiday Rain-Out Hotline is cookies and hot chocolate. Seeks to (925) 931-5352. Free holiday refresh- ments will also be served. Create Library Call 925-556-4500 for more LIVERMORE: The information. of Things Livermore Holiday Sights Libraries can offer more than just books. The Livermore Public Library wants to take Residents Invited to borrowing to a whole new level by loaning out things people want and Stuff a Bus to Help need, but may not want to own. Fill Food Pantries The Livermore Li- brary community, will The Livermore Amador Tri-Valley, where they are decide what those items Valley Transit Authority needed,” says Board Chair, will be. The library is (LAVTA) will host its annual Don Biddle. conducting an online “Stuff-A-Bus” holiday food Safeway will be hosting survey at livermoreli- drive. The event is being held the event at three stores in brary.net on December 6th from noon the Tri-Valley. These in- The items could be to 4 pm in support of the clude: 4495 First Street, anything from tele- Open Heart Kitchen and Tri- scopes to tools, from Livermore; 7499 Dublin sewing machines to new Valley Haven Food Pantries. Blvd., Dublin; and 6790 technology. Ideas will Safeway Supermarkets Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. help us create a new col- has partnered with LAVTA to The most needed items lection of things to check host the holiday food drive at are: juice boxes, cooking out from the library for three of its Tri-Valley stores. oil, granola bars, canned free. Wheels bus drivers and other vegetables and fruit, coffee, Things that might volunteers will be on hand to pasta, rice, sugar and flour. make good entries for collect non-perishable food To promote the event, Photos - Doug Jorgensen the Library of Things: donations to help Tri-Valley radio station 101.7 KKIQ The annual Earlier Than the • Things people need families this holiday season. will be having a live broad- Bird event on November occasionally or for just “When people think of cast from noon to 2 pm 21 kicked off holiday one project. the Tri-Valley, most think of at the Livermore Safeway shopping in downtown • Things that educate the large corporate offices, location. Livermore. Shoppers and entertain. at Terra Mia shopping malls, wineries and For more information on dressed comfortably in New Year’s Eve • Things people like large homes, but few think of Wheels, visit www.wheels- to “try before you buy.” pajamas took advantage Join us to ring in the the people who struggle day bus.com. of the early specials. For further infor- to day. Many residents are New Year this Dec. 31st! mation about the pro- in need of food, especially Special 4-course dinner menu 4:00-9:00pm gram, please call 925- around the holidays. The Book and prepay by Dec. 15 & Receive 10% OFF! 373-5500, or visit the ‘Stuff-A-Bus’ event ensures library’s website www. Those who dine with us at our last seating between that all donations collected in livermorelibrary.net. 7pm-9pm are invited to ring in the New Year with us! the Tri-Valley remain in the ARTERO Complimentary party favors, music, dancing and a prosecco toast along with traditional cotechino and lentils at midnight! A KB Home Community Music and dancing Brand new, affordable townhomes featuring DJ Dave Brown from 10:30 until... available to income-qualified buyers in the City of Livermore Inquire about our special VIP Lounge and Bottle Service ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS THROUGH DECEMBER 4th Please visit www.hellohousing.org/artero to learn more about program restrictions, eligibility requirements and the online application process.

Info & RSVP, Call 925-456-3333 Terra Mia Ristorante Italiano 4040 East Avenue, Livermore terramialivermore.com THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION A

Starting upper left, reading clockwise: Las Positas College presents "The Importance of Being Earnest," see page 2; Carlene Carter appearing at the Bankhead Theater, see page 4; The comedy, "Elf Jr.," will be performed on the Amador State, see page 7. Creatures of Impulse present a holiday show, see page 5. 2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 LPC to Stage The Importance of Being Earnest - 'A Trivial Comedy for Serious People' For the first time in Las was written for the later as Miss Prism. Positas College (LPC) 1800's, we will be setting With a modernized history, the Theater Arts it in the 1950's, an era setting and Wilde's witty department will stage a sec- closely related to Victo- dialogue, The Importance ond main stage production rian social values," said of Being Earnest is, ac- in a single semester. Director and Theater Arts cording to Lish, a "trivial The school will stage Department Coordinator comedy for serious people" Oscar Wilde's The Impor- Titian Lish. "This touch and "delightful in its arti- tance of Being Earnest. of recognizable moder- fice, speed and character Performances are Dec. nity sheds new light on development." 4 - 12, 2015, Fridays and the comedy, and lends Performances will take Saturdays at 8 p.m. and itself to fabulous costume place at the Mertes Center Saturdays at 2 p.m. design by our student for the Arts Black Box on Two newcomers will costume designer, Lenee the Las Positas College perform in the title roles. Madeera, with impeccable campus, 3000 Campus Hill Alex Bru as John Worthing execution from our new Drive, Livermore. and Nicholas Shannon as costume design class un- Tickets are $10 stu- Algernon Moncrieff, two der the guidance of Wes dents, staff, seniors 55+ young gentlemen who have Morgan." and military/veterans, $15 taken to bending the truth The cast includes general admission call 925- in order to put some excite- Niall Malone as Rev. 424-1120 or visit http://bit. ment into their lives. Canon Chasuble, Jake ly/1SEWPY4 As part of their plan, Casados as Lane, Cyn- Parking $2. Permits Worthing invents a brother, Cast in rehearsal for Las Positas production. thia Lagodzinski as Lady available in Lots AA, A and Earnest, whom he uses as cides to take the name Ear- comedy would be complete up together in the country Bracknell, Chae Hyden as B. Free Parking Saturday an excuse to leave his dull nest when visiting Worth- without a kink thrown into and their deceptions are Gwendolyn Fairfax, Han- after 6 p.m. life behind to visit Gwen- ing's young and beautiful the mix, and things begin to discovered. nah Ramirez as Cecily dolyn. Moncrieff then de- ward, Cecily. Of course, no go awry when the pair end "Though the show Cardew and Sarah Warren

Public Invited to Take Part in Live Streaming Visit with Ann Leckie, a Hugo and Nebula Award Winning Author

The Livermore Public #libtalks) and online chat. Subterranean Magazine, other programs and events, Library will present a live People are encouraged Strange Horizons, and visit the library’s website at streaming visit by Hugo to email questions for Ann Realms of Fantasy. Ann www.livermorelibrary.net. and Nebula award-winning Leckie in advance to the- has worked as a waitress, author Ann Leckie on [email protected]. a receptionist, a rodman Tuesday, December 8, Please limit questions to on a land-surveying crew, 2015 at 6:30 PM. This free two short sentences, and in- and a recording engineer. event will be held in the clude the sender's full name She makes her home in St. Storytime Room of the and city. On the subject Louis, Missouri. Civic Center Library, 1188 line, type: “Patron question The Library Talks is a South Livermore Avenue, for Ann Leckie’s live video grant funded project open Livermore. Science fiction chat.” Leckie will try to re- to all California libraries, luminary Ann Leckie will spond to as many questions with funding provided by join us via live video chat as possible during her live the Pacific Library Partner- for a conversation about streaming visit. ship and proudly sponsored her groundbreaking series Ann Leckie is the author by the Mountain View and the future of science of the Hugo, Nebula, and Public Library and the fiction. There will also be Arthur C. Clarke Award Santa Clara City Library. an opportunity for a Q&A winning novel Ancil- To learn more, visit www. from the audience via lary Justice. She has also thelibrarytalks.org. Twitter (@thelibrarytalks published short stories in For information about ANN LECKIE THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 3

All American VALLEY CONCERT CHORALE Broadway Chorus Plans 'Jingle, Holiday Ring and Fa-la-la' Program Concert Set The Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre's Broadway Chorus The Pleasanton will present a program of holiday music, "Jingle, Ring Community Concert and Fa-la-la." Band under the direc- Performances will take place at 7 p.m. on Fri., Dec. 4 tion of Bob Williams and Sun., Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. at a new location, the Pleasan- presents an All-Amer- ton Senior Center. ican Holiday Concert The chorus is directed by Glen Riggs, accompanied by on Dec. 6 at the Fire- Chris Erwin and produced by JoAnn Loitz. house Arts Center. The Senior Center is located at 5353 Sunol Blvd. To The concert purchase tickets, call 462-2121. features a blend of music styles from the familiar, traditional and classical styles celebrating the holiday season. A joyful and fun concert. The concert begins at 2 p.m. at the Fire- house, 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Holiday Concerts Feature Music The concert is free, though donations are from the Classic to the Contemporary, appreciated. For more informa- And an Audience Sing-Along A Flock of The Ten Tenors tion call 925-846-5897 Seagulls or go to the Pleasanton HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS The Valley Concert great Tennyson poem of the “The audience sing- RETRO NEW WAVE ROCK Community Concert Sat NOV 28 2 & 8pm Chorale will perform its same title and set to music along has always been very Fri NOV 27 8pm Band website www. annual holiday concerts of by the renowned Canadian popular with our audiences pleasantonband.org sacred and popular holiday composer Stephen Chat- over the years,” says VCC songs. man. Board President Bobby The first performance The holiday concerts Jensen. “It’s obvious that will take place at 7:30 p.m. will feature music from the the audience is getting in Holiday on Sat., Dec. 12 at the First classical to the contempo- the spirit of the season as Book Sale at Presbyterian Church, 2020 rary featuring selections we sing the carols. You can Fifth St., Livermore. The form Bach’s Christmas see it in their faces and it Christmas with Dublin Library second concert is scheduled Oratorio, Still, Still, Still, makes the experience extra Carlene Carter for 7 p.m. on Sun., Dec. 13 Little Tree and other famil- special for us singers.” The Celts A “CARTER GIRL” The Friends of Dub- at the Lynnewood Meth- iar carols. Tickets are $20 in ad- SPIRITED HOLIDAY CELEBRATION HEADS HOME lin Library, Inc. will odist Church, 4444 Black “We include the open- vance and $25 at the door. Tue DEC 1 7:30pm Thu DEC 4 8pm present a holiday book Ave., Pleasanton. ing and closing move- High school and college sale from noon to 2 The holiday concerts ments of Johann Sebastian students $10 with valid FREE Family p.m. on Sat., Dec. 5 at are always VCC’s most at- Bach's Christmas Orato- student ID. Children are Holiday Concert the Library, 200 Civic tended performances. The rio, a jubilant chorus and free. Advance tickets may Featuring Plaza. audience carol sing-a-long triumphant chorale,” adds be ordered by visiting the PROKOFIEV’S There will be a great has been a traditional por- Bush. “We are delighted to Chorale’s website at www. Peter and the Wolf selection of beautiful tion of the holiday concerts have harpist Daniel Levitan valleyconcertchorale.org, hardcover books in ex- for over 50 years. back with us to accom- or by calling the Chorale’s Symphony Storytime cellent condition, ideal "At our annual Decem- pany the choir in beautiful information number at & Surprises Symphonic ber holiday concerts, you’ll and familiar carol selec- (925) 866-4003 to order Stories for gift giving. LIVERMORE-AMADOR Items are specially experience the spirit of tions. And, we remember tickets SYMPHONY LIVERMORE-AMADOR SYMPHONY priced. the Christmas season with the American composer More information about SPECIAL GUEST: For information, our theme 'There is Sweet Stephen Paulus, with his the Valley Concert Cho- Cantabella Children’s Chorus Sat DEC 5 8:15pm contact the Dublin Music Here,'" explains beautiful Nativity Carols. rale is available at www. Sat DEC 5 3pm FOLLOWING THE DOWNTOWN John Emory Bush, Valley Traditional and audience valleyconcertchorale.org, HOLIDAY PARADE Library (925) 803-7252 SPONSORED BY SHEA HOMES or www.dublinfriends. Concert Chorale Artistic sing-along carols will also or by calling the general org Director and Conductor. be included in the pro- information line at (925) 925.373.6800 LVPAC.org “This text comes from the gram.” 866-4003. 2400 First Street, Downtown Livermore

4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015

Carlene Carter Brings Carter Family Legacy of Country Roots to the Bankhead Theater Carlene Carter brings the musical legacy of the the age of 17. Her eponymous first album debuted Carter Family to the Bankhead Theater in a single per- in 1978 and was celebrated for blending the Nash- formance on Friday, December 4, 2015. Launched to ville sound with contemporary rock and roll. Carter the top of the country charts in 1990 for her hit single has carved her own path in the music world ever “I Fell in Love,” Carter emerged as one of the leaders since, co-writing songs for Emmylou Harris and the in the contemporary country generation, blending the Doobie Brothers, as well as charting with her own traditional Nashville sound with rock and roll. Her songs. When Carter’s catchy hit single “I Fell in recent album “Carter Girl” brings her back to her roots Love” soared to the top of the country charts in 1990 in a tribute to the stories and songs of three generations and landed both Academy of Country Music and of her musical family. Tickets to see Carlene Carter Grammy Award nominations, followed by “Every at the Bankhead on December 4th are $42 or $59 for Little Thing” in 1993, she cemented her own land- adults and $16 for students. mark in the country music world. The granddaughter of "Mother" Maybelle Carter Since then Carter has continued to set her own and daughter of country music legends June Carter musical milestones, as well as joined other coun- Cash and Carl Smith, Carlene Carter is in a unique try superstars such as Brooks & Dunn, Vince Gill, position to bring the music of the Carter Family alive Lorrie Morgan and Pam Tillis to honor the music of for both longtime followers and a new generation of previous generations. In 2005, Carter was cast as her fans. Carter pays homage to her family’s tremendous mother in Wildwood Flowers: The June Carter Story, and long-lasting influence on country music with songs a Nashville stage musical about June’s early years. from multiple generations including “Gold Watch And The Bankhead Theater is located at 2400 First Chain,” “I’ll Be All Smiles Tonight,” June Carter’s Street in downtown Livermore. Tickets may be “Tall Lover Man,” as well as original tunes such as purchased at the box office, online at www.bank- “Me and the Wildwood Rose” that reflect a deep con- headtheater.org, by calling 373-6800, or via the new nection to her roots. LVPAC mobile app. Carter started singing with The Carter Family at Carlene Carter Photo - Marina Chavez.

Celtic Christmas Concert is a Celebration of Community For six years, the Bothwell Arts Center has welcomed the Annual Celtic Christmas Concert and Gathering, a spirited community celebration filled with music, food and laughter. Festivities are planned for Sunday, December 13 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The event is produced by Gabriel “Gabe” Duffin, a folksinger who hails from Belfast, Ireland. Duffin’s band, “Pog Mo Thoin,” features talented musicians from around the Bay Area. Known for their rich Irish ballads and lively Irish folk tunes, the band will happily follow their leader and throw in an unexpected rock song while serv- ing up, with a Celtic flair, many Christmas favorites. Duffin typically invites a special guest artist as well. 2014’s guest vocalist, Erin Ruth Thomson, returns again the arts by providing artists, musicians, performers and this year. “She brought the house down” says Duffin, creatives with affordable space to learn, teach and create. “I’m delighted that she is returning.” Kathy Buys also re- The Bothwell is a project of the Livermore Valley Per- turns, bringing to the stage her lively, driving Irish fiddle. forming Arts Center. The family-friendly celebration has become a local Potluck gathering 6:00 p.m., concert/live music at tradition, an opportunity to meet and mingle with friends 7:30 p.m all held at the Bothwell Arts Center, 2466 8th both old and new before the Holiday whirl begins. Guests Street, Livermore. are encouraged to share a potluck dish of their choice Tickets are $15 advance through December 6, $20 at and, in the past, buffet items have ranged anywhere from Volunteer prepares for festivities. the door traditional Irish stew to a platter of McDonald’s cheese- They may be purchased at the Bankhead Theater box Duffin conceived of the Celtic Christmas Concert and burgers or fancy holiday treats. Cider and tea are offered office, 2400 First Street, downtown Livermore, online at Gathering as a fundraiser for the Bothwell Arts Center, for free, and wine, beer and Irish Whiskey is available for lvpac.org or by calling 373-6800. and for six years it has helped them continue to support purchase.

THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 5 Firehouse Arts Center Presents Interactive Holiday Improv Show

The 7th annual install- Free parking is available be the show audiences hold ment of “Holiday Shorts” in the venue’s lot and on most close to their hearts. comes to the Firehouse surrounding streets. Not only do they get to Arts Center in Pleasan- “Holiday Shorts” help create energy for the ton. Creatures of Impulse combines the fast-paced evening, they get to see (COI), the City of Pleasan- “Whose Line is It…” style COI do what they do best-- ton’s award-winning teen of improv with Creatures have fun on stage making improv troupe, will present of Impulse’s signature something out of nothing,” the popular holiday-themed story-based long-form im- says COI Director Mark improv show in two unique provisation. Holiday fun Duncanson. performances on Thursday, and hi-jinks galore. Duncanson sums up, December 3 and Friday, In the first act, audi- “This will be our seventh December 4 at 7:30pm. ence suggestions provide season performing “Holi- Tickets are $10 general, the fodder for holiday day Shorts,” so this has $5 student. Tickets can be themed games, scenes, and become a super fun holiday purchased online at www. a variety of improv fun and tradition for me. Every sea- firehousearts.org, by call- frivolity. The audience son, I am tickled when COI ing 925-931-4848, and in will then vote for their fans can remember their person at the Box Office, favorite short scene from first “Holiday Shorts” show 4444 Railroad Avenue, Act I. In Act II, the troupe and recount specific lines Pleasanton. Box Office will turn the winning scene and story elements from hours are Wednesday - into a full-scale improvised previous seasons. This is Friday 12:00 noon-6:00pm holiday play. definitely the most fun, and Saturdays 10:00am- “Out of all the shows affordable, and hilarious Amethyst Trio 4:00pm, and two hours we perform each season, night out for the holidays prior to the performance. “Holiday Shorts” seems to in the Tri-Valley.” Amethyst Trio to Perform Classical Music Program at the Livermore Library

The award-winning Samsun Van Loon on cello. Amethyst Trio will per- The group plays a large form at the Livermore repertoire of styles from Public Library on Sunday, classical to jazz and con- December 6 at 2pm. The temporary popular music. Trio will present an eclec- Amethyst Trio has a tic program comprised of Wedding Classics CD that and special events. Please works by Haydn, Bach, can be found on Amazon. visit www.SFtrio.com for Dvorak, and Mozart per- com. Garner is the main more information about formed on piano, flute, and solo Celtic harpist on a this group. strings. The Trio will also CD called Arts & Letters, The Friends of the perform three Argentinian released last summer and Livermore Library have Tangos, Au bord d’un ruis- also available on Ama- underwritten this program seau by René Boisdeffres, zon.com. Amethyst Trio as part of the Friends Au- and Sleigh Ride by Leroy performs all over the Bay thors and Arts Series. For Anderson. Area and Northern Cali- additional events, check The Livermore Public fornia – playing concerts the library’s website at Library Civic Center is lo- www.livermorelibrary.net. cated at 1188 S. Livermore Avenue. Admission is free. Founded by pianist/ harpist Lara Garner, Amethyst Trio has been together since 2007. The current players are multi-instrumentalist Lara Garner, who plays piano, Creatures of Impulse prepare for holiday show. flute and Celtic harp; Alina Polonskaya on violin, and 6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 Victorian Faire features Dickens’ “Christmas Carol”

What a grim setting for need to be noticed and not reads Scrooge, Scrooge, such a warmhearted story! regarded as ‘surplus popu- Scrooge and Scrooge.) It’s 19th century London; lation,’ as Scrooge would “In the Church, we the air is choked with soot say.” are accustomed to tell- and starving orphans beg So once again the old ing the same story many in the streets, relentlessly meanie sneers “Humbug!” times, and making it new ignored by the Victorian at attempts to soften his and relevant each time,” upper crust. hard heart—until he looks remarks Moore, who is an Kindness and char- back on his life and (spoil- Episcopal priest, formerly ity eventually prevail in er alert) makes amends. St. Bart’s rector. “The Christmas Carol,” And again the story ends Our ideals of Christmas Charles Dickens’ durable, in joy as Tiny Tim shouts, haven’t changed much sometimes comical tale “God bless us, every one!” since Dickens’ classic of Ebeneezer Scrooge’s Dickens’ Christmas ref- caught the fancy of English redemption. Scrooge again erences focus on familiar speakers the world over. meets the eerie Spirits of holiday pleasures—feast- In fact the novelist is Christmas Past, Present and ing, family, fellowship— credited with cementing Yet to Come in scenes per- rather than religious rituals. those ideals firmly in place. formed during the fourth But the age-old virtues “Until Dickens’ story,” annual Victorian Christmas embraced by the charac- says Moore, “Christmas Faire December 5 and 6 on ters—some sooner, some was just another penitential St. Bartholomew’s Church just in time—make all the church holiday, not a time campus, Livermore. difference between misery for celebrating.” Moore Why is this tale still so and merriment. thinks Scrooge’s cheerful popular? Director Joyce Audiences can watch nephew Fred gives voice Photo - Doug Jorgensen Parry Moore has ready the story unfold in separate to Dickens’ own feelings Rehearsing are David Ruzicka, "Fred," (left) and Dave Rettinger as Scrooge. answers: These characters scenes, with time between about the holiday when breathe as easily in our them for browsing in the he describes it as a ‘kind, sustaining St. Bart’s as chase handmade gifts and Dec. 6 at 678 Enos lWay, time as in London’s murky tidy shops that line the generous, forgiving time.” a center for community know they are participating Livermore. Admission is fogs, she says. “They are “street,” or visiting The Cat “People come back to support, through our Food in a charitable endeavor $10/person, 12 and under archetypical: Scrooge the and The Fiddle for drink this story to be reminded Pantry, Wellness Center at the same time. I think free. High tea at 4 pm is old miser, Bob Cratchit, the or grub. This year new cast that Christmas is a time for and pastoral counseling. Dickens would approve!” $20/person in addition. For beleaguered father. They members take the stage charity,” says Moore, “and People can come to the Faire hours are 11 am information and tickets, go are also allegorical: Tiny along with the veterans. not just for spending a lot Faire, have their hearts to 5 pm Saturday, Dec. 5 to saintbartslivermore.com, Tim represents all the poor (Dave Rettinger’s perfor- on presents. The proceeds lifted up by this timeless and Noon to 5 pm Sunday, or pay at the door. children in the world, who mance history, for instance, of this event will go toward story, enjoy the music, pur-

Code Busters Author at the Free Computer Coding Session Library Plans Free Interview Livermore Library The Livermore Public Library will host a free, one Skills Workshop The Livermore Public hour computer coding session with Knodemy, an EdTech There will be a free interview skills workshop on Library will host author Company based in the Tri-Valley Bay Area. Anyone, ages Thursday, December 10, 2015, 3:00-5:00pm, and Penny Warner on Saturday, 4 and up, can come to learn on Monday, December 7th, again on Thursday, January 14, 2016, 3:00-5:00pm December 5, 2015 at 1pm 2015 from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This event is part of the at the Civic Center Library located on 1188 S. at the Civic Center Library, Hour of Code, a global effort to give every student the Livermore Ave. Registration is required. Sign up by 1188 S. Livermore Ave. opportunity to learn computer science that occurs during calling 925-373-5505. Warner is the author of Computer Science Education Week. In this free workshop Shawnelle Goalder, Job the award-winning middle Participants will not need any previous coding experi- Developer with Alameda County Social Services, grade series, The Code ence, but experienced coders are welcome.Coding experts Workforce and Benefits Administration, will cover: from Knodemy will be present to guide participants • How to prepare for a successful interview. Busters Club. She has also • Effective employer research techniques. written many mystery nov- through their one hour tutorial. If patrons would like, they • Commonly asked questions and how to answer els for adults and party and can register beforehand by visiting the following web them. activity guides for children. address: hourofcode.knodemy.com, however registration • How to handle difficult and unexpected ques- At this event, Warner will the public. Books will be is not required. tions. discuss her Code Busters available for purchase from Patrons should bring their own computer or device if • Interview etiquette and body language. Club series and teach code Towne Center Books. For they have one. The library will have a limited number of There will be time during the program for mock breaking skills. Program further information, please laptops set up for those who do not. interviews and questions. is designed for 3rd - 6th call 925-373-5504, or visit For more details about the program, please either visit To learn more about other library programs and graders. the library’s website www. the library’s website or call (925) 373-5504. events, visit www.livermorelibrary.net. This event is free to livermorelibrary.net. THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 7 “Elf, Jr.” on Stage at Amador Theater

Based on the holiday film “Elf,” the hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy “Elf, Jr.” follows Buddy the Elf on his quest to find his true identity. This clas- sic story is brought to life by the City of Pleasanton’s Civic Arts Stage Com- pany in partnership with the award-winning Bay Area Children’s Theatre Compan. The show is live on stage at the Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Road in Pleasanton, from December 11 through December 20. Performances are Fri- days and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., with matinees Satur- days and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $12, $15, $18, with child and senior discounts available. Tickets can be purchased online at www.firehousearts.org, by calling 925-931-4848, and in person at the Firehouse Arts Center Box Office, 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Based on the 2010 Broadway musical “Elf: The Musical,” which in turn was based on the 2003 smash movie hit “Elf,” the show follows the story of Buddy the Elf, who is accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler Cast members rehearse for holiday performances. and raised to adulthood hail from all over the Tri- production team: Derek among Santa's elves. Un- Valley. Collard, Director; Marissa able to shake the feeling BACT Education Direc- Hockfield, Choreographer; that he doesn't fit in, the tor Becca Posamentier Louis Lagalante, Music adult Buddy travels to New notes that “for this produc- Director; Zachary Gold- York, in full elf regalia, to tion, we have about 15 berg, Stage Manager; Brett search for his real father. young actors who are new Jones and Patricia Austin, As it happens, dad turns to Civic Arts Stage Compa- Costumers; with Lizbeth out to be a cynical busi- ny. The rest have been in Stanley on props and Mar- nessman ala Scrooge. One at least one show with the tin Flynn in charge of sets. DNA test later, and pops company in the past.” The The next Civic Arts reluctantly agrees to try gang has an intense 9-week Stage Company – BACT for a relationship with rehearsal schedule right up production is a first: Shake- the childlike Buddy, with to opening night, according speare! “A Midsummer increasingly zany results. to Posamentier. Night’s Dream” auditions Seventy-nine students Becca went on to say will be held the first week (6 more than last year!) that BACT was thrilled to of January, 2016. For more between the ages of 8 and discover “this fabulous, information on auditions, 17 are participating in this funny, holiday show that contact Mark Duncanson year’s big production. The captures the joy of the sea- at mduncanson@cityof- members of the two alter- son through the magic of pleasantonca.gov, or Becca nating casts, appropriately storytelling in a Broadway- Posamentier at becca@ nicknamed the “Twinkle style musical.” bactheatre.org. Cast” and the “Jolly Cast,” The professional

8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015

ART/PHOTO EXHIBITS of SAQA (Studio Art Quilt Associates, att.net, or Linda Ryan at LRyan@ Young Artists’ Studio has openings 12:30 to 5 PM. Dec. 5, 7:15 p.m. pre-concert talk, Livermore Art Association Gallery, www.saqa.com). Colorful wall and Livermoreperformingarts.org in its 2015 - 2016 school year art Charles R Vineyards Presents 8:15 p.m. concert. Symphonic Stories, located in the Carnegie Building, sculpture pieces integrate materials ACC/Art Critique & Coffee, Discuss and classes. Artist Peggy Frank offers "From Our Family To Yours" - An Mayor John Marchand will narrate. offers art classes, unusual gifts, such as hand dyed and painted share work with Professional Artists small group instruction in art to Extraordinary Library Wine Event, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., painting rentals, art exhibits and cottons, crinolines, silk, organza, in sketching, painting, exhibiting and students ages 7 through high school Saturday, December 12th from 5pm Livermore. www.bankheadtheater.org information pertaining to the art field, batting, and beads. The juror for this marketing your work. ACC members and also is offering an adult class. to 8pm. Charles R Vineyards and or 373-6800. 2155 Third St., Livermore. The gallery exhibition is internationally recognized currently working on exhibiting theme Projects include all kinds of drawing, Julio Covarrubias, owner of Casa de Concert by Swing Fever, Pleasanton has been open since 1974 and is run textile artist, juror, and curator Yvonne works, under the Inspiration of "The painting, printmaking and sculpture. Vinas, Very limited quantities. Savory Library, 400 Old Bernal Ave., 2 to 3 as a co-op by local artists. Hours are Porcella, current board member of the Artist's Edge /The Edge of Art & Cho- High school students working on and sweet pairings will be served p.m. Sun., Dec. 6. Free admission. Wed.-Sun. 11:30-4 p.m. For informa- San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles. sen Pathways." Meets and Critiques advanced portfolios are welcome. with tastings all evening to enjoy with 931-3410 X 4. tion call 449-9927. Regular gallery hours: Wednesday, Friday mornings in Pleasanton. Peggy has been an art instructor in family and friends. Limited tickets Pleasanton Community Concert Members of the Pleasanton Art Thursday, Friday from 12:00-5:00 [email protected] the Livermore Valley since 1980. available in the Tasting Room, by Band, Holiday concert, 2 p.m. Dec. 6, League Public Art Circuit are cur- p.m.; Saturday 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Figure Drawing Workshop, every Contact her at (925) 443-8755 or phone at 925-454-3040 or by email- Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad rently exhibiting art at six businesses Firehouse Arts Center in Pleasanton, Friday 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Artists email [email protected]. ing [email protected] Ave., Pleasanton. www.firehousearts. in the Pleasanton - Dublin Area. View- 4444 Railroad Avenue. Donations bring their own materials and easels. 8295 Crane Ridge Road Livermore. org or 931-4850. ing locations are: Bank of America always appreciated. Open to all artists. Professional artist WINE & SPIRITS Asbury Christmas Concert – Asbury at 337 Main Street, Pleasanton; Pleasanton Art League All Media models (nude). No instructor. Stu- Nottingham Cellars: Vendors: Nov. 29 MUSIC/CONCERTS United Methodist Church will hold its Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce at Show, Dec. 1-30, Robert Livermore dents under 18 need written parental - Purple Orchid Resort and Spa Chair Blacksmith Square, music every 19th Annual Christmas Concert at 777 Peters Street, Pleasanton; Sall- Community Center, 4444 East Ave., permission to attend. Cost $20 per Massages; Dec. 13 - Designed by the Saturday 3 to 6 p.m. in the courtyard, 7 PM on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015 in its man, Yang, & Alameda CPA's at 4900 Livermore. session. Bothwell Arts Center, 2466 Sea Seaglass Jewelry. Holiday in the 21 South Livermore Ave., Livermore. Sanctuary at 4743 East Ave. in Liver- Hopyard Road, Pleasanton; US Bank Simply Seeing photographic show, 8th St., Livermore. Coffee, tea and Vineyards, Dec. 5 and 6, music 1 to 4 A Flock of Seagulls, Nov. 27, 8 p.m. more. All of Asbury’s vocal choirs, the at 749 Main Street, Pleasanton; Ed- Bankhead Theater. 2400 First St., refreshments are available. Call or p.m. Dec. 5 - Meredith McHenry, Dec. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Asbury Band, several instrumental- ward Jones at 6601 Dublin Boulevard, through January 4, 2016. Invited pho- e-mail Barbara Stanton for more info 6 - Kylle Thommasson; vendors both Livermore. www.bankheadtheater.org ists and the Asbury Ringers will be Dublin; and The Bagel Street Café tographers include Ken Ball, Walter about the workshop, 925-373-9638 - days - Chloe and Isabelle Jewelry and or 373-6800. performing. Asbury’s pipe organ at 6762 Bernal Avenue Pleasanton. Davies, Marc Davis, Sherry Hennes, [email protected]. Brix Chocolates. 2245-C South Vasco 3nd Annual Holiday Youth Music will also be part of the evening’s If interested in becoming a member Jonathan Miller, Chuck McGregor, Preschool Art classes: Thursday Rd., Livermore. Festival. Over a dozen young local musical offerings. The concert is of the Pleasanton Art League or for Jennie McGregor, Rahul Prasad, Lisa mornings 9:45 – 10:45. Children aged Las Positas Vineyards, Livermore, Fri., musicians, from middle school open to the public. A free will offering information regarding the Public Art Rigge and Ron Rigge. www.bankhead- 3-5 are welcome to join this class. Nov. 27, open Black Friday and all through high school ages, present can be made at the door. There will Circuit, call John Trimingham at (510) theater.org Classes cover drawing, painting, weekend offering case specials on performances set to a variety of be a punch and homemade cookie 877-8154. Celebrate Women 2016! call for print-making, sculpture and ceramics. 2011 Estate Petite Sirah and 2012 classic holiday storylines. The young reception immediately following in the Artwork Showing: Espresso Rosetta artists for this photographic art For further information, contact Muscat Cannelil. Sun., Nov. 29, "Sun- performers and writers will be doing Fellowship Hall. For more information Coffee Shop, 206 S. J St., Livermore, competition.Submission Delivery Thomasin Dewhurst at (925) 216- day Funday" wine and cheese pairing covers of holiday standards and mod- call Jean Braun at 449-4168, the (corner of J Street and 2nd Street). Date: 2/24/16/ Deliver to Building 7231 or [email protected] flight, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the ern holiday favorites everyone knows church office at 447-1950 or e-mail: Works by Lisa Rigge and Maryann Kot. 300 between noon - 5 at Las Positas or visit http://childrensartclassesproj- tasting room. For more information, and loves. Saturday, November 28, at [email protected] Experience Lisa Rigge’s fall color pho- College. Guidelines: Subject of every ects.blogspot.com/ email [email protected] 2:00 p.m. General admission tickets: Orchestra Concert, Dec. 10, 8 p.m. Las tographs and Maryann Kot's archival piece must be of a woman or women. Art Classes, For children, teens and Brewzza Palooza, Black Friday, Nov. students $5, adults $10. Tickets Positas College, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., reproductions of original art in the It must arrive framed in a black 16 x adults. Beginner to advanced. Draw- 27, Eight Bridge Brewing, noon to 8 available at www.firehousearts.org, Livermore. http://laspositascollege. friendly atmosphere of the new coffee 20 frame with hardware on the back ing, painting, printmaking, sculpture p.m. Release of Russian Hill Imperial 925-931-4848, or at the Box Office edu/performingarts/index.php shop, Espresso Rosetta, in downtown (use D-rings) ready to hang. Label on and ceramics taught by highly Stout. Ken's Wood Fired Pizza at 7 at the Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 December People Classic Holiday Livermore. The work will be on display the back with title, pertinent process, experienced artist and art instructor, p.m. Musical guests The Lolo's from 5 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Free Rock, 2 and 8 p.m., Dec. 12, through Dec. 31st. for example: "on fiber paper" or Thomasin Dewhurst. Weekday and to 7:30 p.m. 332 Earhart Livermore, parking. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Norma Webb, Northern California "cyanotype" "digital photography" "B weekend classes, Home school behind 24 Hr. Fitness. Ten Tenors "Home for the Holidays," Avenue, Pleasanton. www.firehouse- Landscapes in Oil, November 1-30, & White film"; artist name and price. classes, Special classes during school Las Positas Vineyards, Livermore, performing such songs as Joy to the arts.org, 931-4850. 2015, Wente Vineyards Estate Winery, Hang Day: 3/1. Art Show will be hung breaks offered. (925) 216-7231 or Fri., Nov. 27, open for tasting. Sat. World, Sleigh Ride, White Christmas, Celtic Christmas Concert, Bothwell 5565 Tesla Road, Livermore in Building 2400. email [email protected] for and Sun., Dec. 5 and 6, Holidays in Amazing, Grace, Winter Wonderland, Arts Center, Dec. 13, 6 p.m. Tickets Special Fall Exhibits: On view through further info. the Vineyards 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 Feliz Navidad and many more, Sat., www.bankheadtheater.org or 373- December 5. The Harrington Gallery MEETINGS/CLASSES Piano and keyboard lessons, For p.m., offering special holiday flight, Nov. 28, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Bankhead 6800. and Firehouse Arts Center present Livermore Art Association Annual children to adult. Beginner to early cheesecake cupcakes and chocolate Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Concert by Mezzo Soprano Joanna works by two distinct artists in the Holiday Boutique, now through intermediate level. Half-hour private port cups pairing. Local vendors offer- www.bankheadtheater.org or 373- Lynn-Jacobs, Pleasanton Library, 400 public exhibition areas. Prolific Los December 31. Handmade items, one classes or small group classes ing Holiday gifts. 6800. Old Bernal Ave., 2 to 3 p.m. Sun., Dec. Gatos artist Ed Lucey will be exhibited of a kind gifts include jewelry, hand offered. Twice-yearly recitals. (925) Rodrigue Molyneaux Winery, Holiday in Those Were The Days – The Spirit and 13. Free admission. 931-3410 X 4 in the hallways galleries. Lucey’s crafted scarves, towels, baskets, 216-7231 or email thomasin_d@ the Vineyards on Saturday Dec. 5 and Songs of the 60’s. William Florian Jeff Bordes & Friends Holiday Jazz, 8 paintings in oil are of the Central wooden bowls, photographs, fine hotmail.com for further info. Sunday Dec. 6. Unique cork-themed plus trio. Former lead singer of the p.m., Dec. 19, Firehouse Arts Center, California farmlands. Oakland artist art. LAA Gallery in the old Carnegie PPL/Pleasanton Poetry League, now Christmas tree decorations, opening famous ‘60s group The New Christy 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Jon Steven Walters has created two Library, 2155 Third St. in Livermore. meeting the 1st Thursday and 3rd the Envie Port to the public. 3053 Minstrels, in concert. Matinee only: www.firehousearts.org, 931-4850. paintings specifically for the Grand Wednesday through Sunday, 11:30 to Wednesday of each month 7:00 at Marina Avenue, Livermore. www. Sunday, November 29, 2:00 p.m. A Cash Country Christmas Featuring Atrium exhibit space. View during 4:00. Admission is free. The Corner Bakery Cafe in Pleasanton. rmwinery.com Tasting room hours are at the Firehouse Arts Center in James Garner, 2 p.m., Dec. 20, Firehouse Arts Center open hours. Artists at Work, a new monthly event, Join us as we challenge ourselves to Pleasanton. Reserved seating tickets Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from the second Thursday of each month poetically relay our thoughts, emo- $15- $25. Tickets available at www. Avenue, Pleasanton. www.firehouse- 12:00-5:00 p.m.; Saturday 11:00 features a new artist and artists at tions and experiences through poetry. firehousearts.org, 925-931-4848, arts.org, 931-4850. a.m.-3:00 p.m. 4444 Railroad Av- work at the Livermore Downtown Art Become a member & share your work or at the center Box Office, 4444 Roy Rogers and the Delta Rhythm enue, Pleasanton. Donations always Studios, 62 So. L St., Livermore. - Contact PoetryOnCanvas@Mac. Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Kings, 8 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 31, appreciated. For more information, Show and Tell, Artists are invited to Com for more info on Theme Chal- Christmas with the Celts, Dec. 1, 7:30 followed by a gala reception in the contact Gallery Director: JFinegan@ a monthly function at the Bothwell lenges, Membership & Opportunities. p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First theater lobby. Bankhead Theater, cityofpleasantonca.gov, or call the Arts Center, called “Show & Tell. 4th Ukulele Circle, Meetings held the St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. 2400 First St., Livermore. www. gallery: 925-931-4849. Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. last Saturday from 12 noon-1 p.m. org or 373-6800. bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. Studio Art Quilt Associates juried at the Bothwell Arts Center, 2466 at Galina’s Music Studio located at Carlene Carter, country music, 8 p.m. exhibition. New installation at Eighth St., Livermore. Artists bring 1756 First St., Livermore. Confirm Fri., Dec. 4. Bankhead Theater, 2400 ON THE STAGE the Harrington Gallery, on display finished or unfinished work to show participation by calling (925) 960- First St., Livermore. www.bankhead- Love's Labour's Lost, Douglas November 12 through December 16. and if desired, receive a critique 1194 or via the website at www. theater.org or 373-6800. Morrisson Theatre presents a new Special note: many of the works on from the group. Refreshments are GalinasMusicStudio.com. Beginners Roy Rogers and the Delta Student Music Recital, Dec. 4, 1 p.m. musical based on the play by William display will be available for purchase. brought by some of the artists, and a are welcome. Bring some music to Rhythm Kings, perform at 8 Las Positas College, 3000 Campus Shakespeare, with songs by Michael Variety of textile works by artists donation of $5.00 is desired although share with the group. Ukuleles are p.m. Thurs., Dec. 31, as part of a Hill Dr., Livermore. http://laspositas- Friedman, and book adapted by Alex who are members of the Northern college.edu/performingarts/index.php Timbers. Nov. 5-29. 22311 N. Third not mandatory. Contact for this event available for purchase. Small $10 fee New Year's Even gala. California & Northern Nevada chapter is D’Anne Miller at danne_miller@ to cover meeting costs. Livermore-Amador Symphony, Sat., St., Hayward. (510) 881-6777; www. THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 9

dmtonline.org with the Valley Dance Theatre Pit 33rd Deacon Dave’s House of the Holiday Shorts: Creatures of Impulse, Orchestra, Dec. 12, 19, 20, 2 and 7 Dove Christmas Display will open the City of Pleasanton’s teen improv p.m., Dec. 13, 2 p.m. and Dec. 18, 7 Friday, December 4th. The Grand troupe, presents 7th season of the p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Opening will take place with a colorful popular Holiday-themed improv show St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. candlelight procession down Hillcrest in two unique performances Thursday, org or 373-6800. Ave. The time is set to begin at 6:30 Dec 3 and Friday, Dec 4 at 7:30pm. p.m. Hillcrest Avenue, Livermore. Your suggestions will inspire holiday CHORAL Hometown Holiday Celebration, themed games, scenes, and improv Valley Concert Chorale, Annual Sing-It- Pleasanton, Sat., Dec. 5, Main Street, fun in the first act. The audience Yourself Messiah, December 4, 2015, downtown Pleasanton, 5:00pm Holi- will then vote for which short scene 7:30 pm at the First Presbyterian day Parade; 6:45 p.m. entertainment, Creatures of Impulse will make into Church, 4th and L streets, Livermore. tree lighting and special appearance an entire improvised “play” in the www.valleyconcertchorale.org, or by Santa Claus. www.hometownholi- second act. Firehouse Arts Center, 866-4003. day.com 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Broadway Chorus, program of holiday Home for the Holidays, Dec. 5, 11 a.m. General admission tickets: $10 Adult, music, “Jingle, Ring and Fa-la-la.” 7 to 4 p.m. downtown Livermore. Liver- $5 Student. Tickets available at www. p.m. on Fri., Dec. 4 and Sun., Dec. 6 more Downtown, Inc. for information Pink Martini firehousearts.org, 925-931-4848, or at 2 p.m. Pleasanton Senior Center, www.livermoredowntown.com. at the Box Office at the center. 5353 Sunol Blvd. To purchase tickets, 20th Annual Holiday Sights and The Importance of Being Earnest, call 462-2121. Sounds Parade and Tree Lighting, December 4-12, Barbara F. Mertes Valley Concert Chorale, Holiday Dec. 5, begins at 6 p.m. www. Sold Out Bankhead Appearance First Center for the Arts, Las Positas Concerts: Classical to Contemporary, livermoredowntown.com. College, 3000 Campus Hill Drive, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12 at the First Pres- Saint Bartholomew’s 4th annual for Pink Martini West Coast Tour Livermore. www.laspositascollege.edu byterian Church, 4th and L Streets, Victorian Christmas Faire, Saturday, Ballet Folklorico Mexicano, Dec. 6, 2 Livermore; and at 7 p.m. Dec. 13 at December 5 from 11 am to 5 pm and Pink Martini, the their timeless music with Over the past 20 years, p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Lynnewood Methodist Church, 4444 Sunday, December 6 from 12 noon Portland-based jazz an appealing interna- Pink Martini has released St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. Black Ave., Pleasanton. www.valley- to 5 pm. 678 Enos Way in Livermore. orchestra described by tional flavor and irresistible eight albums and per- org or 373-6800. concertchorale.org, or 866-4003. Shoppes, scenes from Charles The Washington Post as swing sound. formed on concert stages Elf, Jr. - a holiday youth musical theater Choir Recital, Dec. 13, 3 p.m. Las Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, and Fez- “utterly cosmopolitan, yet Although he originally and with symphony orches- production. Opens December 11 at Positas College, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., ziwig’s merry celebration. Carolers, Amador Theater in Pleasanton. Based Livermore. http://laspositascollege. recorders, and a brass trio. Father utterly unpretentious,” will focused on a career in poli- tras around the world. They on the holiday film, this hilarious edu/performingarts/index.php Christmas and children’s activities. play to a sold-out house tics, Lauderdale became in- have toured with such fish-out-of-water comedy follows A hearty ploughman’s lunch; adult at the Bankhead Theater spired to start Pink Martini guests as Portland native Buddy the Elf on his quest to find MISCELLANEOUS thirsts can be quenched by a pint at on Monday, December 7, in 1994, believing he could NPR White House cor- his true identity. The heart-warming Political Issues Book Club meets the The Cat & The Fiddle Pub. For added 2015, the first venue to be provide a more attractive respondent Ari Shapiro, as tale is brought to life by the City 4th Tuesday of each month, and reads fun, costumes are encouraged. High fully sold on their multi- and genuinely multicultural well as the four Von Trapp of Pleasanton’s Civic Arts Stage books about issues and trends that Tea, seating either day at 4 pm. Faire stop West Coast tour. soundtrack for the kind siblings, great-grandchil- Company in partnership with the are driving current affairs in both the admission is $10 per person, with award-winning Bay Area Children’s national and international arenas. children 12 and younger free. Tea Pink Martini puts their of political fundraisers dren of The Sound of Mu- Theatre Company. December 11 – 20. Topics that have been covered include seatings are $20 per person with own unique spin on pop and events he regularly sic family, with whom they Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., politics, governance, economics, Faire admission. saint.barts@att. hits, jazz numbers, and attended. By the following released the album “Dream Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. military affairs, history, sociology, net. To purchase tickets and reserve classical songs, crossing year he had recruited China a Little Dream” last year. Tickets are $7-$18, available at www. science, the climate, and religion. a seat at tea, please visit www. multiple genres. As Thom- Forbes, a friend and class- Pink Martini was inducted firehousearts.org, 925-931-4848, Contact Rich at 872-7923, for further saintbartslivermore.com or call (925) as Lauderdale, founder, mate from Harvard, and into the Hollywood Bowl's or at the Firehouse Arts Center questions 447-3289. bandleader and pianist their song “Sympathique” Hall of Fame in June 2014. Box Office, 4444 Railroad Avenue, We’re Talkin’ Books! Club is a Holidays in the Vineyards, Decem- Pleasanton. Tickets are also available member-centered book group led by ber 5th and 6th, 12pm-4:30pm. says, “Pink Martini is a rol- became an overnight sensa- The Bankhead Theater at the Amador Theater, 1155 Santa a small group of book club veterans, Livermore Valley Wine Country. licking around-the-world tion in France. Nominated is located at 2400 First Rita Road, Pleasanton, 2 hours prior with reading selections based on Wineries showcase decorated tasting musical adventure … if the there for Song of the Year, Street in downtown Liver- to the performance. member recommendations and rooms with special wines, arts, crafts, United Nations had a house it remains a mantra for more. Tickets for perfor- The Golden Follies Holiday Cabaret, 2 consensus. No homework required– holiday music, activities and more. band in 1962, hopefully striking French workers mances can be purchased p.m., Dec. 13, Firehouse Arts Center, share your insights or just listen in! Admission is free, however, tasting we’d be that band.” With with its irresistible chorus at the box office, online at 4444 Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Contact Susan at 337-1282 regarding fees may apply and vary by winery. sizzling vocals, smooth “Je ne veux pas travailler” www.bankheadtheater.org www.firehousearts.org, 931-4850. the We’re Talkin’ Books! Club. www.lvwine.org. Storied Nights: An Evening of Spoken Speech Performance, Dec. 11, 7 p.m. instrumentals, and infec- (“I don’t want to work.”) or by calling 373-6800. COMEDY Word. 2nd Thursday of each month. Las Positas College, 3000 Campus tious rhythms, they infuse Late Night Catechism, stand-up Features local authors reading their Hill Dr., Livermore. http://laspositas- comedy show led by a Sister who is work 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Peet's Coffee college.edu/performingarts/index.php Matching Funds Enhance Donor Giving part benevolent instructor, part drill and Tea, 152 So. Livermore Ave., A Polynesian Experience, Pleasanton sergeant, and full of fun. Nov. 20, 8 Livermore. Sponsored by LVPAC and Library, 400 Old Bernal Ave. 2 to For Giving Tuesday 2012, Giving Tuesday has the Bothwell Arts Center. p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Peet's. Information go to http://face- 2:45 p.m. Sat., Dec. 12. Dances from only (December 1st), two inspired giving around the As with most perform- St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. book.com/StoriedNights Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand and the org or 373-6800. Dublin Schools, 1915, 1950 and Today, Cook Islands. No registration required. more donors (in addition world, resulting in greater ing arts centers, 40% of Will Durst & Friends: The Big Fat special exhibit, Oct. 17 through Janu- Free. 931-3410. to the "Challenge Donor" donations, volunteer hours, LVPAC’s total operating Year-End Kill-Off! 8 p.m., Dec. 27, ary 2016. Little Classroom, Dublin 19th Annual Victorian Yuletide, Dec. have agreed to match dona- and activities that bring budget comes through giv- Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Heritage Park and Museums, 660 13, noon to 4 p.m. Ravenswood His- tions to the Livermore Val- about real change in com- ing. Ticket sales only cover Avenue, Pleasanton. www.firehouse- Donlon Way, Dublin. www.DublinRec- toric Site, 2649 Arroyo Rd., Livermore. ley Performing Arts Center munities. Last year, more 60% of the total overhead. arts.org, 931-4850. Guide.com. Decorations, gift shop, entertainment, (LVPAC) for up to $10,000 than 30,000 organizations Information and tickets 32nd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting visit with Mr. and Mrs. St. Nicholas. each. This means for every in 68 countries came to- for programs can be found DANCE Ceremony, Thurs., Dec. 3, 7 p.m. No admission charge. Livermore Area Dance Production, Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Las Dublin Civic Center, 100 Civic Plaza. Recreation and Park District and dollar donated on Giving gether to celebrate Giving at the ticket office (925) Positas College, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Seasonal entertainment and refresh- Ravenswood Progress League. www. Tuesday, 3 more will be Tuesday. 373-6800, online at www. Livermore. http://laspositascollege. ments, plus a surprise appearance by LARPD. given, essentially quadru- All donations support lvpac.org, or via the new edu/performingarts/index.php a special guest from the North Pole. pling the amount raised. the Bankhead Theater and LVPAC mobile app. The Nutcracker, Valley Dance Theatre Free admission. Since founded in 10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015

Saint Michael School 8th graders sold nachos and cupcakes to raise money to be able to buy extra food (Organizations wishing to run notices women receive their college education. workshop. in Bulletin Board, send information to PO Please, no children under 12 or pets. Tour Democrats Seasonal party with items. After a successful Box 1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care tickets are not tax deductible. Questions: Tri-valley, San Ramon Valley, Diablo fundraiser, the Saint Michael of Bulletin Board or email information to [email protected] Valley, Young Democrats and Lamor- School Leadership Team went [email protected]. Include name Livermore High School and the LHS inda Democratic clubs. 5:30 p.m. Dec. of organization, meeting date, time, place Alumni Assoc. is having the first general 12. This is a potluck dinner with main shopping at the Grocery Outlet and theme or subject. Phone number and meeting to plan the 125th Anniversary for course provided by the clubs. This is an in Livermore. They were divided contact person should also be included. LHS. All are welcome to come & help. The opportunity to meet elected officials and Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday.) 125th year is 2016 - 2017. The meeting other Democrats. IBEW Hall, 6250 Village into 4 teams of students Boutique, Unique gift baskets and will be Thursday, Dec. 3, 2015 at the LHS Parkway, Dublin. and bought food items to holiday gifts. Gift basket themes include Library, 600 Maple St. If interested/attend- Crab Feed, Feb. 27, 2016. The wine, garden, childrens, coffee, men/ ing, please contact sdcanfield@comcast. Livermore High School Alumni Assoc. is complement a Thanksgiving women bath and beauty, and many more. net or [email protected] producing its 4th Annual Crab Feed to meal and to add staple food Free refreshments. Saturday, December Diabetes Self Management Classes benefit the students, faculty & administra- 5, 10am to 4pm. 1170 Innsbruck St, in Dublin, offered by Alameda County tors of LHS. Each year the LHSAA funds items to households. Their Livermore (off Arroyo and Vancouver). Public Health Diabetes Program. Free numerous request from LHS to provide shopping skills provided over Daughters of the British Empire, 7 week series runs Fridays January 8 items/programs that are no longer in their 500 food items to donate to Northern California, Holiday Tea, Dec. through February 19, 10 am - 12 pm, at budget. LHSAA invites all to take part in 10, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30p .m. Castlewood the Dublin Senior Center, 7600 Amador the Crab Feed and both Live and Silent the Saint Vincent DePaul food Country Club, 707 Country Club Circle, Valley Blvd., Dublin. Class is for adults Auctions Fundraiser. Go to www.livermore- locker. Pleasanton. $30. For reservations contact: diagnosed with pre diabetes or type 2 highalumni.com for additional information, www.dbenca.orgpresident4dbenca@ diabetes. Learn about the causes of diabe- email [email protected] or call yahoo.com or 925-998-3500. tes, healthy eating, exercise, medications, Ray 925-606-5518. Armchair Travelers, a monthly stress management and more. Call 510- Free high school level math help program, will take place at the Livermore 383-5185 to register. Requires 5 people offered at Pleasanton Library for students Public Library Civic Center on Thurs., Dec. registered for class to be held. who cannot afford tuition. Contact 925- 10 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Doug and Lindy Diabetes Prevention Class in 484-1073. Webb will share photographs and stories Pleasanton, offered by Alameda County ClutterLess Self Help Support of their first cruise—in 1985 to China and Public Health Diabetes Program. Free 3 Group, nonprofit, peer-based, self-help, the Orient. The trip was 14 days, departing week series runs Thursdays January 14 support group for people with difficulty Hong Kong with China ports of call in through January 28, 9:30- am - 11:30 discarding unwanted possessions. Clut- Shanghai, Dalian, Xingang (maritime gate- am, at the Pleasanton Senior Center, tering is a psychological issue, not an way to Beijing), plus the ports of Pusan 5353 Sunol Blvd, Pleasanton. This class organizing issue. New meeting location: (Korea), Nagasaki (Japan), and ending in is for adults who have pre diabetes or Parkview,100 Valley Avenue (main Kobe (Japan). Their ship was relatively have concerns and want to learn more. entrance), 2nd Floor Activity Room, Pleas- small (1/3 today’s number of passengers) Call 510-383-5185 to register. Requires 5 anton. Mondays except some holidays and in contrast to other cruises, much of people registered for class to be held. 7:00 to 8:30 pm. Come or call a volunteer the time was spent on land with bus, rail, Ohlone Audubon, meeting 7:30 at 925)289-5356 or 925-922-1467. More and small boat excursions to the Great p.m. December 1, 7:30pm at Pleasanton information at: www.clutterlesseastbay.org Wall of China, Forbidden City, Summer Middle School, 5001 Case Ave. Jerry Ting, Writing club for young adults, Palace, Tiananmen Square, Grand Canal, photographer and birder, will present a Whether a seasoned writer or just starting places of work, children’s centers, private program on the Birds of Fremont 2015. out, join published Young Adult author J.L. homes, parks, and streets filled with Afterward the traditional Holiday Cookie Powers at Livermore Public Library for people. A genuine effort was made by the Exchange will be held. All are welcome to the Writing Club for Young Adults, ages 13 cruise line and the Chinese travel authority attend and cookies are not required. For through 21 will meet from 6:30 to 8:00 to open the country to cruise visitors—not more information go to the website www. pm on the third Thursday of the month: only to visit famous sites, but also places ohloneaudubon.org. Dec. 17. The meetings will be held at the of work, schools, and private homes. Tri-Valley CAREs (Communities Civic Center Library, 1188 South Livermore Adults are invited to this free program on Against A Radioactive Environment) holi- Avenue, Livermore. The club is free and no the second Thursday of each month in the day party Tues., Dec. 8, 8 p.m. Livermore registration is required. For more informa- Community Meeting Rooms of the Civic Public Library 1188 South Livermore Ave. tion, please visit TEEN SPACE on the Center Library, 1188 S. Livermore Avenue, Community Rooms A & B, Livermore. Food, library’s website: www.livermorelibrary. Livermore. For additional information adult and other beverages, music and fun net, or contact Jennifer at 925-373-5576. please call 925 373-5500. and frivolity galore. Winners of our 2015 Tri-Valley Stargazers Astronomy Pleasanton Military Families Youth Video Contest will be announced Club. Feed your wonder about the Night Christmas Potluck, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 11, and their videos will be shown. (925) Sky and the Cosmos by joining us on the Veterans Building, 301 Main Street, Liver- 443-7148 3rd Friday of the Month for our club meet- more. RSVP by Dec. 5 with dish, number of Amador Valley Toastmasters, host- ing. Unitarian Universalist Church, 1893 attendeese and names of attendees. Sign ing an open house on Thursday, December N. Vasco Rd., Livermore. Doors open at up for hors d'oeuvres, salads, hot side 10th from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. at 7:00 p.m. talk starts at 7:30 pm. For more dishes or desserts. [email protected] Mimi’s Café Restaurant on 4775 Hacienda info visit us @ http://www.trivalleystar- 11th Annual Danville-Alamo-Walnut Drive Dublin. Toastmasters International is gazers.org/ Creek Branch of AAUW's Holiday Home a non-profit organization developing public Ravenswood Historical Site, 2647 Tour, Friday and Saturday, December 11 speaking and leadership skills through Arroyo Road, Livermore, Docents in 1890s Robert S. Durst of Dublin, enrolled at Colby College in Waterville, Maine, this fall. Before and 12, 2015. Showcasing five beautiful, practice and feedback in local clubs since costumes give free guided tours beginning classes began Sept. 9, Durst took part in a weeklong orientation that included a civic engagement festively decorated homes in Danville and 1924. For more information and to RSVP, at noon, on the second and fourth Sundays component in downtown Waterville, an introduction to academic and intellectual life at Colby, and San Ramon. Tickets are $35 each. A senior contact Michael Duong, Vice President of of the month. Each tour includes the 1885 an address by Associate Professor of Philosophy and Hegel scholar Lydia Moland at Colby's 198th discount of $5 will be offered through Sat- Public Relations at [email protected] Cottage and the 1891 Main House, and First-Year Convocation. A graduate of Phillips Exeter Academy, he is the son of Steven and Lisa urday, December 5th. To purchase online: GNON (Girls Night Out Network- the beautifully landscaped grounds. For Durst of Dublin, Calif. go to http://daw-ca.aauw.net/hht2015. ing) monthly mixer. Mon., Dec. 7, 5 p.m. information on the Ravenswood Progress via US Mail: Send a check postmarked by Cellar Door Wine Bar, 4469 Railroad League (RPL) or the volunteer Docent December 5th payable to Danville- Alamo- Ave., Downtown Pleasanton. Open to all. Program, please call the Docent Coordina- Biola University named 1,566 students to the Dean's List for the Spring of 2015. The following Walnut Creek AAUW with a self-addressed Prepayment required, $10 for members, tor at (925) 443-0238. local residents received the award: Jacob Addington of Livermore; Jonathan Blea of Livermore; stamped #10 business size envelope to: $15 nonmembers. RSVP www.gnon.org/ Sons in Retirement (SIR) is a social Paige Bocianski of Pleasanton; Clayton Carter of Pleasanton; Alicia Castelluccio of Pleasanton; Kate AAUW Holiday Home Tour, P.O. Box 996, rsvp.html, questions 925-487-4748 group of retired men who join together to Estes of Pleasanton; Shaylynn Knuppe of Pleasanton; Haley Martin of Livermore; Kayla Mele of Alamo, CA 94507. In person: Visit East Hope Hospice Grief Support, Hope better enjoy their leisure time. Activities Livermore; Kevin Ross of Livermore; Naveen Saxena of Pleasanton; Natasha Storti of Livermore; Bay Flower Company, 206 Sycamore Valley Hospice staff will hold a special workshop, include golf, bridge, photography, travel, Dennis Sue of Pleasanton; and Autumn Whitney of Pleasanton. Biola students are placed on the Road W. Mon.-Sat. 9-5. (cash or check Handling the Holidays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 2 fishing, biking, wine tasting, and technol- only). Purchase will help send 12 middle to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, December 15, 2:00 ogy. The Tri-Valley Branch serves men Dean's List to honor those with a grade point average of 3.6 or higher while enrolled in twelve of school girls in the Danville, Alamo and to 4:00 pm. Hope Hospice Grief Support living in Pleasanton, Dublin, Livermore, more credit units and whose cumulative grade point average is at least a 3.2. This past spring, 38 Walnut Creek communities to a one-week Center, 6377 Clark Avenue, 2nd floor, and San Ramon. The group meets for percent of Biola students achieved this academic goal. Tech Trek math-science camp for girls in Dublin.Pre-registration is required. Call lunch on the first Thursday of each month a university setting and help fund local 925-829-8770 to reserve space in the at the San Ramon Golf Club, 9430 Fircrest THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 11

Lane, San Ramon. Please read more about bereaved mothers to make connections Community in the Tri-Valley. 3400 Nevada St. Innocent Orthodox Church, only. The Outreach Center will be open 7106 Johnson Dr., Pleasanton. Contact the Tri-Valley SIR at http://sirs34.org/ and with, share resources, and support other Court, Pleasanton. Information 931- 5860 Las Positas Rd., Livermore. Sunday every 4th Saturday to distribute bags from Sherri at 925-399-5074 or email sherri. the Statewide SIR at www.sirinc.org/. For mothers who have been through the worst 1055. Rabbi Dr. Lawrence Milder, www. Liturgy at 10 a.m. For details, go to www. Fresh and Easy Market and Sprouts. This [email protected] for more information or information or to attend a meeting, call experience of their lives, losing a child. For bethemek.org. stinnocent.net or call Fr. John Karcher at will be on a first come first serve basis to register.” Rich Osborne 925-785-3549. more information, contact katiestrube@ Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, affiliated (831) 278-1916. between 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 2333 Centerpointe Church, 3410 Cor- NAMI Tri-Valley Parent Resource comcast.net. with the Congress of Secular Jewish St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Nissen Drive, Livermore. nerstone Court, Pleasanton. Worship is at & Support Group meets monthly for Pleasanton Newcomers Club, open Organizations (csjo.org). Information, Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, Services Lynnewood United Methodist 10 a.m. The worship celebration is called parents/caretakers of children ages to new and established residents of the Rabbi Judith Seid, Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, on Sunday, 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Church, 4444 Black Ave., Pleasanton, “Ancient Future” because it is rooted, 5-17 years with (or suspected of having) Tri-Valley. Activities include a coffee the 485-1049 or EastBaySecularJews.org. Children’s Sunday School & Chapel at offers a friendly congregation where all are as the early church was, in God’s story, emotional/ psychiatric disorders. It meets first Wednesday of the month, a luncheon First Church of Christ, Scientist, 10:15 a.m. All are most welcome to come welcome. Worship at 9 or 10:30 a.m. on which is central to participants’ lives. the third Tuesday of the month from on the second Wednesday of the month, Livermore, services 10 a.m. every and worship with us and to enjoy our Sundays with Sunday school for youth and The gatherings typically include a mixture 7-9pm at Pathways to Wellness, 5674 Bunco, Mah Jongg, walking/hiking groups, Sunday. Sunday School for students (ages hospitality. For more information call the adults at 10:30 a.m. and childcare at both of songs, hymns, Scripture, art, ancient Stoneridge Dr., Suite 114, Pleasanton. The family activities, and monthly adult 3-20) is held at 10 a.m. every Sunday. The church office 925-462-4802. services. Contact Rev. Heather Hammer prayers and creeds and a biblically based group is drop-in and free. Contact person socials. Information, call 925-215-8405 or church and reading room are located at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal at 846-0221, send an email to office@ message. Sunday school, child-care and is Marsha McInnis at 925-980-5331. visit www.PleasantonNewcomers.com Third and N Streets. The Reading Room, Church , 678 Enos Way, Livermore, (925) lynnewood.org or visit our website at www. separate gatherings for teenagers are all Sons in Retirement (SIR) is a group Community Resources for Inde- which is open to the public, features 447-3289. www.saintbartslivermore.com. lynnewood.org. offered each Sunday concurrently with the for retired men who seek activities to en- pendent Living (CRIL) offers services to books, CDs and magazines for sale. For Service Schedule: 8:00 a.m. Contempla- The Church of Jesus Christ of worship service. For more information, go hance their retirement. Monthly meetings help people with disabilities and supports information, call (925) 447-2946. tive Eucharist; 9:15 a.m. Adult Bible Study Latter-day Saints: 9050 Mocho St., to www.centerpointechurch.org or call the feature lunch and an interesting speaker. them to live independently and participate Sunset Community Church, 2200 (check web-site): 10:20 Sunday School Livermore. 3rd ward 2:20 p.m., 2nd ward office at (925) 846-4436. Men have the opportunity to learn about in their community for as long as they are Arroyo Rd., Livermore. Sunday worship (Godly Play); 10:30: Sung Eucharist with 9 a.m., Mocho branch (Spanish) 12 noon. WINGS (Women in God’s Spirit) for and join activities such as hiking, bridge, willing and able to do so. CRIL maintains service at 9:30 a.m. Hispanic service choir, child care provided. 1501 Hillcrest Ave., Livermore: 1st ward, 1 women of all ages and life stages, Meets investment, bowling, bocce ball and wood offices in Hayward, Fremont and Livermore starts at 2 p.m. Nursery and children's Little Brown Church, United Church p.m..; 4th ward 9 a.m., Springtown ward, Thursday mornings 9:30-11:30am through carving. There is also a neat group of guys to provide information and referrals and church provided. A "Night of Worship" of Christ 141 Kilkare Road, Sunol. 10:30 11 a.m. Young single adult ware, 1:30 May 15, St. Charles Parish - Borromeo to get to know. SIR Branch #121 meets provide community education at senior first Sunday of each month at 6 p.m. a.m. worship. All are welcome here. www. p.m., 8203 Village Parkway, Dublin. Hall, 1315 Lomitas Ave., Livermore. on the 4th Tuesday of each month at the centers and affordable housing complexes Wednesday night program for all ages at 7 littlebrownchurchofsunol.org 925-862- The Church of Jesus Christ of Questions: Donna Leach (925-443-6815) DoubleTree Hotel, Las Flores Road (near to residents of Southern Alameda County. p.m. Information, call 447-6282. 2580 Latter-Day Saints: Pleasanton 1st Ward: [[email protected]] or Kristen Barton Bluebell Drive), Livermore, at 11:30. Any The Tri-Valley office is located at 3311 Holy Cross Lutheran Church Sunday Pathway Community Church, 6533 Sunday at 1 p.m., 6100 Paseo Santa Cruz. (925-449-8002)[adele_obrien@hotmail. retired man is welcome to drop by to Pacific Avenue, Livermore 94550 and can Service 9:30 a.m. 1020 Mocho St., Sierra Lane, Dublin. Contemporary Wor- Pleasanton 2nd Ward: Sunday 1 p.m. at com] learn about your opportunities. For more be reached by phone at (925) 371-1531, Livermore. Information, 447-8840. ship Service, Sunday 10:30 am. Children, 3574 Vineyard Ave. Pleasanton 3rd Ward: Tri-Valley Church of Christ, gives information check our website: branch121. by FAX at (925) 373-5034 or by e-mail at Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, youth, adult programs. Biblically based Sunday 9:30 a.m., 3574 Vineyard Ave. away clothing and other items every sirinc2.org or email Neal Cavanaugh at [email protected]. All services 1385 S. Livermore Avenue, Livermore. 9 practical messages, nondenominational. Pleasanton 4th Ward: Sunday 9:30 a.m., Monday 10-12. Donations are also ac- [email protected] (put “SIR” in the are free. a.m. worship (semiformal); 10:30 a.m. All are welcomed. www.pathwaycom- 6100 Paseo Santa Cruz. Dublin 1st Ward: cepted on Mondays between 10-12. 4418 subject line). DBE Daughters of the British adult Bible study/Sunday school. For muntiychurch.org (925) 829-4793. Sunday 9:30 a.m., 8203 Village Parkway. E. Avenue, Livermore. Eric's Corner is a free support Empire, John McLaren’s Roses of Britain information, call 925-447-1246. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, John Knox Presbyterian Church, Christ Church (a nondenominational group for people who are dealing with a Chapter in the Tri-Valley meets at 11:00 Asbury United Methodist Church, 486 S. J Street, Livermore. 9:00 a.m. wor- 7421 Amarillo Rd., Dublin. Sunday worship evangelical church formerly meeting diagnosis of Epilepsy. Everyone is invited a.m. on the 3rd Thursday of every month 4743 East Avenue, Livermore. 9 a.m. ship service. Bible Study/Sunday School service at 9:30 a.m. Sunday school for in Pleasanton), Now meeting at Arroyo to attend these meetings. Meetings are at Castlewood Country Club. DBE was Sunday worship. Information 447-1950. 10:20. Bible Basics Class, which explores ages 3-18 during worship. Adult education Mocho Elementary School, 1040 Florence held at 5725 W. Las Positas Blvd., second founded in 1909 and is a nonprofit 501(c) Calvary Chapel Livermore, meetings the main teachings of the Bible, meets at Sundays at 11:00 a.m. Jr. High youth Rd., Livermore. Worship service at 9:00 floor, Pleasanton. We meet from 6:30 (3) organization made up of women of Sundays at 10 a.m. Robert Livermore 7:00 Sunday night. Call 371-6200 or email group Sundays 4:00-6:10 p.m. High school a.m.; Educational Classes for all ages at -8;00 on the third Thursday of each British or British Commonwealth heritage Community Center, 4444 East Ave., [email protected] for more info. youth group Sundays 5:50-8:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. Fall adult education course: month. For more information please visit and ancestry with a focus on charity and Livermore. (925) 447-4357 - www. Tri-Valley Church of Christ, 4481 www.jkpcdublin.org (925)828-1846. “Human Sexuality: Biblical and Theologi- us at ericscorner.org fellowship. Those interested in helping calvarylivermore.org. East Avenue, Livermore; worship service Livermore Quakers: Unprogrammed cal Perspectives,” taught by Robert W. Pleasanton Lions Club welcomes with “the cause," enjoying social activities, United Christian Church, www. 10:15 a.m. Sundays. www.trivalleychurch. worship, Mondays at 7pm, 1886 College Evans (Ph.D. in clinical psychology and visitors to come experience a great time and forming long-lasting friendships, uccliv.org, a gay-welcoming congrega- org. Ave. (United Christian Church). More infor- Ph.D. in systematic theology). visit: while making a difference in our commu- contact Edith Caponigro at 925-998-3500 tion offering community and spiritual Bethel Family Christian Center, mation: [email protected] or www.christchurch-trivalley.org or call nity & beyond. Dinner meetings every 2nd or Jenny Whitehouse at 925-484-1273 for encouragement for questioners, seekers 501 North P Street, Livermore, Pastors are (925) 315-7170. 925.846.0665. & 4th Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm. additional information. and risk-takers. Worships on Sunday Don & Debra Qualls. Weekly ministries: Unity of Tri-Valley - 7567 Amador TriValley Cultural Jews, annual The Regalia House, 4133 Regalia Ct., Livermore Military Families, a morning at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome. Sunday 10 a.m. - Teaching Sessions; Valley Blvd., Suite 108, Dublin. 10:00 Chanukah party on Friday, December 11 at Pleasanton. www.pleasantonlionsclub.org support group for families in Livermore 1886 College Ave. at M St., Livermore; call Sunday 10:25 a.m. - Holy Grounds Fel- am Sunday service. Nov. 29 speaker: 6:00 pm. The event will take place at the Assistance League® of Amador who have a loved one serving in the 449-6820 for more information. lowship; Sunday Worship Service 10:45 Rev. Bob Brach, "Dealing with Loss & Ireland home, located at 19663 Fremery Valley invites all visitors to join this Military, is intended to be a safe place for Granada Baptist Church, 945 Con- a.m. - Elementary aged children go to Change. All are welcome. Ongoing groups Court, Castro Valley. Secular humanistic dedicated group of volunteers, reaching family members to come and share their cannon Boulevard, Livermore. Services: Kid’s Church following worship, nursery and activities. www.unityoftrivalley.org candle lighting ceremony, latkes, dreidles, out to those in need in the Tri-Valley and experiences and concerns with others who Sunday school – 9:45 a.m.; worship available; Wednesday 7 p.m. - Back to the 925.829.2733. friends, and fun! Please bring a potato, a having fun doing it. Regular meetings are understand what they are going through. service – 11 a.m. All are welcome. 1-888- Point Bible Study; all ages; Friday 7 p.m. St. Francis of Assisi, 193 Contrac- menorah to light, and a side dish to share. held on the third Thursday of the month All family members are welcome to attend 805-7151. - Celebrate Recovery; in the dining hall; tors St., Livermore. .Sunday School (all Free tickets available at https://goo.gl/ at 7 p.m. at the Parkview, 100 Valley meetings. Meetings on the 3rd Thursday Seventh-day Adventist Church, 243 925-449-4848. ages) – 8:30 AM. Communion – 9:30 AM. tOzOr6. RSVP to Jamie at 510-888-1404 Ave., Pleasanton. For more information, of each month at the Livermore Veterans Scott Street, Livermore. 925-447-5462, Valley Bible Church, Pleasanton, 925-906-9561 stfrancisanglican.church. or [email protected]. see our website, www.amadorvalley. Memorial Building, 522 South L Street services on Saturday: Sabbath school 9:30 7106 Johnson Drive, Services at 9:00 and Center for Spiritual Living Grief Workshop, bi-monthly to assistanceleague.org, e-mail assistance- from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more a.m., worship 11 a.m. www.livermoresda. 11:00. Interpretation for the deaf at 9:00. Livermore Valley - People from all faith help people with the healing journey. [email protected], or call information, call Tami Jenkins, 925-784- org/ All are welcome. 925-227-1301. www.thecrossing.org traditions, cultures, races and sexual St. Elizabeth Church, 4001 Stoneridge (925) 461-6401. 5014 or email livermoremilitaryfamilies@ Faith Chapel Assembly of God, 6656 Valley Bible Church, Livermore, orientations welcome. Sunday service Dr. Pleasanton. 7:30pm. Thursday Dec Operation: SAM “Supporting All yahoo. Alisal St., Pleasanton, Sunday School 9:15 Meeting at Altamont Creek Elementary at 10:00 a.m. Youth and teen programs 3rd. and 17th. 2015. Tuesday, Jan 12th. Military” is a 501(c)3 non profit military a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m., Women's Bible School, 6500 Garaventa Ranch Road, offered as well. All are welcome. Meeting and 26th. Thursday, Feb 11th. and 25th. support organization based in Livermore. RELIGION study Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Intercessory Livermore. Services at 10:00 a.m. place 1617 2nd St., 2nd Floor, Livermore. March 10th. 2016. No per-registration S.A.M. has been in operation since Janu- First Presbyterian Church, 2020 prayer 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. Senior Cedar Grove Community Church, For more information contact revhar- is necessary, but if it is your first night ary 2004. It is dedicated to the continued Fifth Street, Livermore. 8:30 a.m. Contem- adult ministries meet every other month. 2021 College Ave., Livermore. Worship [email protected] or visit us at http:// attending, arrive a little early to check in. morale support of deployed troops. For plative Service in the Chapel and 10:00 Call the office at 846-8650 for more Services 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. www. csllvlighthouse.org. These sessions are open to all, regardless information or donations, visit www. a.m. Traditional Service in the Sanctuary information. cedargrove.org or call 447-2351. St. Matthews Baptist Church, 851 of religious affiliation. Please call Nancy at operationsam.org, email operationsam@ and children’s program For more informa- Trinity Church, 557 Olivina Ave. Chabad of the Tri-Valley, 784 Rincon Ave., Livermore. www, smbclive. 925-846-9543 for more information. comcast.net or call 925-443-7620. tion www.fpcl.us or 925-447-2078. Livermore. Sunday worship at 8:30 and Palomino Dr., Pleasanton. 846-0700. com or 443.3686. Dr. Allen S. Turner. Christmastime Is Here! Come and Depression and Bipolar Support Tri-Valley Bible Church, 2346 Walnut 11:00 a.m., and Sunday School and Bible www.jewishtrivalley.com. Rabbi Raleigh Worship services 8 and 11 a.m., Sunday enjoy Christmas songs, old and new, with Alliance (DBSA) Pleasanton, meets St., Livermore, holds Sunday worship study for all ages at 9:45 a.m. Awana is Resnick. family Bible school, 9:30 p.m., Bible study choirs and band. There will be lots of Wednesdays 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. St. Clare's at 10 a.m. with Sunday school for all Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday night Well Community Outreach Center and youth ministry, Wednesday 7 p.m. opportunities for community singalong. Episcopal Church, 3350 Hopyard Rd., ages at 9 a.m. Children's classes during there is adult Bible study, youth activities ministry provides meats, canned and dry Feed the homeless, Saturday 11 a.m. Refreshments and good cheers will follow Pleasanton (not affiliated with the church. adult worship service. AWANA children's and children's choir at 6:30 p.m. Child goods, toiletries, and school supplies (only Prayer, 6 p.m. weekdays. in the Pope John Paul II Activity Center. Information at www.dbsalliance.org/ program Wednesdays at 6 p.m. 449-4403 care during all events. 447-1848, www. available prior to the start of the school “1 & 2 Corinthians” will be the Friday, Dec. 18, 7:30-9:00 p.m., St. pleasanton or contact chapter leader, Al or www.Tri-ValleyBibleChurch.com. trinitylivermore.org year). Those with an immediate need or featured study of Community Bible Study Elizabeth Seton Church, 4001 Stoneridge Pereira, 462-6415. Unitarian Universalist, 1893 N. St. Charles Borromeo, 1315 Lomitas who would like to donate nonperishable Women’s class of Pleasanton this fall. A Drive, Pleasanton. Free-will offering. Bereaved Mother’s Network of Vasco Rd., Livermore. 10:30 a.m. Sunday Ave., Livermore. Meditation groups follow- food items, call the office at (925) 479- Children’s Program is available for infants catholicsofpleasanton.org the Tri-Valley meets the first Tuesday of service. Information 447-8747 or www. ing the John Main tradition, every Monday 1414 to begin the process. Wednesday to 5 years old. Class starts on continues each month, 7:00 - 8:30 pm, Livermore uucil.org 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. For details, contact and Friday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., and Thursday each week on Thursdays at 9:30-11:30am Civic Center Library, Small Conference Congregation Beth Emek, Center Claire La Scola at 447-9800. 4 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Pick up by appointment until May 12, 2015. Valley Bible Church, Room. The aim of the network is to allow for Reform, Jewish Learning, Prayer and 12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015

Students Visit Japan in Sister City Program

Sandi Thorne of the Assistance League of Amador Valley.

Top photo - students on tour; lower photo - Trying on Japanese kimonos are Anika Schlenker (left) from Food Assistance Provided East Avenue Middle School and Amber Feduiw from Each month the Assis- is one part of a network of Children born at ValleyCare Mendenhall. tance League of Amador contributions coming from Medical Center in Pleasanton businesses, groups, and in- are listed: From October 1 to 9, Valley receives a list of al level,” said Kelly Bowers, needed food items from dividuals. Locals who raise A son to Hillary and James 2015 a group of teachers, Sigman, IV of Tracy on Oct. 3 Superintendent Livermore the Tri-Valley Haven Food chickens provide eggs to the parent chaperones accompa- Valley Joint Unified School A son to Alaina Alsip and Pantry. The League then Pantry, and others provide David Zimmerman of Liver- nied nearly twenty middle District. “The Japanese ex- vegetables and fruits from school students on a visit purchases and delivers to more on Oct. 2 change programs help all of the Haven food that it dis- their gardens. Several food- A daughter to Jessica and to Japan as part of a student our students understand their for-family volunteers are so Christopher Chatto of Liver- exchange program. Liver- tributes to needy families broader world by fostering a and individuals. Assistance committed to this program more on Oct. 7 more students lived with A daughter to Sunetta and rich and deep connection to League volunteers use the that they help with distribu- a host family and attended another culture.” Arun Pai of Pleasanton on list to replenish the Food tion weekly. Aug. 21 school in the city of Yotsu- Each March, after the The Assistance League kaido, Japan. The Livermore Pantry’s inventory each A daughter to Widad Elamin Japanese students visit month. of Amador Valley is a non- and Emad Diala of Pleasanton Yotsukaido Sister City Or- Livermore, seventh grade profit consisting of 90 vol- on Oct. 14 ganization (LYSCO) orga- The Food Pantry serves students apply to the ex- approximately 2,000 indi- unteer women who are dedi- A son to Sudakshina and nized the exchange program. Pallab Mondal of Pleasanton change program. Interested viduals, about 600 families cated and highly motivated In March 2016, Japanese students must write an es- on Aug. 19 each month. The Pantry's to support the betterment of A son to Lisa and Mathew students will have the op- say, receive teacher recom- guage throughout the year- our communities. Annu- portunity to visit and attend distribution of food has in- Mills of Pleasanotn on Sept. 5 mendations, and interview long program. Livermore’s creased by 30% during the ally, the League volunteers A daughter to Julie and Scott Livermore public schools with the LYSCO Board, Sister City Yotsukaido has 6500 hours to meet its goal Wollenhaupt of Livermore on and live with a local host last four months. The pro- which consists of adults and a similar population and gram has been enthusiasti- of “reaching out to those in Sept. 8 family. past student participants. socio-economic demograph- A son to Deysi Gonzalez and cally received by volunteers, need.” Its programs touch Victor Zamora of Pleasanton “At Livermore public Accepted students must ics to Livermore. The city the lives of more than 3,000 schools, we are dedicated by the Pantry staff, and by on Sept. 8 maintain a GPA standard is located about one hour recipient families and indi- local people each year. A son to Tahany and Mu- to preparing our students to and commit to studying the from Tokyo, near the Narita hammad Saad of Pleasanton make a difference on a glob- viduals. The League's con- Japanese culture and lan- airport. tribution to the Food Pantry on Sept. 20