Wednesday, February 1, 2012 • Vol. 5 Issue 24 “Calming the Pressure to Succeed” ALEXANDRA ROBBINS New York Times & Washington Post bestselling author of “The Overachievers” and “The Geeks Shall Inherit the Earth” One of the most widely read journalists under the age of 35

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Matthew Dellavedova (4) and Kenton Walker II (30) Photo Tod Fierner Saint Mary’s Still Undefeated after Tough Road Trip By Alex Kozela and Caitlin Graveson Upcoming Home Games Get your tickets at the Athletics Ticket Office Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Thu, Feb 02, 7:00 PM vs San Diego, SMC McKeon Pavilion or online at www.smcgaels.com Sat, Feb 11, 8:00 PM vs Santa Clara, SMC McKeon Pavilion Wed, Feb 15, 7:30 PM vs Loyola Marymount, SMC McKeon Pavilion ...read story on page C2

Quote of the Week: Advertising "Pointing fingers and Experience Real Estate in 2012. debating about who Listing and Selling Results Locally for 28 Years. should have done what is not going to get our www.clarkthompson.com roads fixed." [email protected] Read Letters to the Clark Thompson, Broker Editor, page A10 925-254-8585 ASSOCIATES DRE #: 00903367 REAL ESTATE Orinda City Council Initiates Eminent Domain Town News A2 - A12 Letters to the Editor A10 MOFD A11 Proceedings to Keep Glorietta Project on Track Life in Lamorinda B1 - B14 Service Directory B9 By Laurie Snyder Business B10 he Orinda City Council recently author- Boulevard and Jefferson and Seanna Allen of record. “We’re seeking to use it.” Food B11 Tized City staff to initiate legal proceed- Glorietta Court. The City’s “repeated good Project Overview HOW TO CONTACT US B11 ings against the owners of two private faith efforts over many months to acquire the Council authorized the Glorietta project to Not to be Missed B12-B13 properties. necessary easements through negotiation” prevent a recurrence of flooding near Glori- Sports C1 - C3 “None of us wants to take this action,” have, according to a staff report, included of- etta Boulevard and Moraga Way, which was Classified C2 said Mayor Steven Glazer. “We do this out of fers of compensation to the owners, even described in a 2000 incident report from the Love Lafayette C4 necessity.” Glazer’s remarks were made dur- though such payments are not required of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminis- Our Homes D1 - D12 ing a public hearing on January 17 at which cities under Government Code section tration (NOAA): “A 6 foot wall of water and This Week Read About: Council members and staff discussed the 7267.2. mud flowed through the yards and residences City’s success in acquiring easements from Council member Victoria Smith, who led along Glorietta Court near Moraga Way. Lifson Honored A2 four private property owners free of charge in the City’s effort to negotiate a separate agree- Widespread rain with twenty four hour accu- Dipping into Palos Bank? A4 connection with the Glorietta Storm Drain ment with property owner Diane Szucs, mulations of more than 5 inches occured [sic] Safe Routes to Schools A6 Improvement Project. An easement was also thanked Szucs for the record and noted that over the area on Feb 13 into February 14th.” CERT for Seniors B2 obtained from the East Bay Municipal Water Szucs declined the City’s offer of compensa- A subsequent investigation found that a se- Film Festival B5 District. tion and suggested that the Council put the verely deformed corrugated metal pipe (CMP) When Science Meets Music B6 However, the City has been unable to fi- savings toward repaving the City’s roads. in the neighborhood’s 50-year-old CMP storm New in Teen Scene B8 nalize agreements with two other private “We’re not seeking to own the lands,” drain system was the most likely cause. The Trans K Program on Hold B9 property owners – Sara Harkness of Glorietta City attorney Osa Wolff clarified for the City was sued. ... continued on page A12

Life in Lamorinda B1-B14 Sports C1-C4 Our Homes D1-D12 Life - Wings on the Grounds Miramonte Miramonte Kitchen Tour – Cathy Dausman talks to a local veteran who took his Girls Steam It Takes a Community preflight training at SMC in 1944. B1 Roll Rivals Visit two of the Orinda kitchens The Lady Mats con- featured in this tinue to dominate month's Tour DFAL play. Conrad with Sophie Bassett fills you in on Braccini. D1 girls' hoops. C1 Page: A2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 Stunning Happy Valley Contemporary!

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After Delays, Senior Housing Project Ready to Roll By Cathy Tyson n 2008 this paper reported on IEden Housing’s bid for a low in- come senior apartment complex along Mt. Diablo Boulevard. It was described as well on its way at the time; but it was only recently, at a Jan- Civic News uary 23, 2012 City Council meeting Public Meetings that Woody Karp, Senior Project Manager said, “I’m really happy to Tri-City Meeting report we obtained the final piece of City Council funding in order to move project for- Thursday, February 9, 7:00 pm ward. We should be ready to start Sarge Littlehale Community Room, 22 construction in the beginning of Au- Orinda Way, Orinda gust. Thank you for your patience next regular City Council and support.” Monday, February 27, 7:00 pm Karp explained the hold-up was all about the financing, “Affordable Planning Commission housing relies on very limited public funding sources to make it work.” He Monday, February 6, 7:00 pm added, “It’s very competitive. Fund- Rendering of the Senior Housing Project Provided Lafayette Library & Learning Center, ing sources have been cut back signif- family program administered by the designed by architect Van Meter kitchen for residents who would like Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd icantly or eliminated altogether.” California Department of Housing Williams Pollack. The 52,000 square to host parties, along with amenities Design Review The original funding source was and Community Development. “It foot structure is set back from the like a gardening club to work on the Monday, February 13, 7:00 pm a federal program with applications was pretty miraculous,” said Karp. street and has two inner courtyards for raised beds on the property, a com- taken only once per year. Eden ap- With a great downtown location residents to enjoy. puter learning center, and modest ex- Lafayette Library & Learning Center in the Arts & Science Discovery plied three different times and ulti- between Brown Avenue and Black- Seventeen of the units are de- ercise room. Thirty parking spaces Center at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. mately tied for first place. But there wood Lane, next to Bo’s Barbeque, signed specifically for disabled resi- will be available underneath the was only enough money for one proj- the almost one-acre site is very pedes- dents. The building will feature a building. The design hasn’t changed School Board Meetings ect, and it went to the other applicant. trian friendly. The forty-five rental large living room style community since going through the Design Re- Acalanes Union High School Undaunted, Karp was finally able units exclusively for low-income sen- space with comfortable sofas, a tele- view process and gaining approval District to secure funds from a state multi- iors, with one manager’s unit, were vision and music, a full service back in 2008. Wednesday, February 1, 7:30 pm Wednesday, February 15, 7:30 pm Board Room AUHSD Office Popular Chamber Director Receives Business Award 1212 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lafayette www.acalanes.k12.ca.us By Cathy Tyson nown for his good humor with “hip hip hurray for Jay,” Mo Lafayette School District Kand boundless energy, Jay Levich led a packed house to Wednesday, February 8, 7:00 pm Lifson, Executive Director of the honor the man who brings resi- LAFSD Office Lafayette Chamber of Com- dents together with the Chamber- 3477 School Street, Lafayette merce, was awarded the Marquis sponsored Art and Wine Festival, www.lafsd.k12.ca.us Business Person of the Year the Reservoir Run, Rock the Plaza, award at a celebratory dinner as well as the “Shop Lafayette Check online for agendas, meeting event at the Lafayette Park Hotel First” campaign, and efforts to notes and announcements & Spa. By all appearances, Lif- save the twinkle lights. City of Lafayette: son’s the most popular man in Family, friends and a veritable www.ci.lafayette.ca.us Lafayette. Beyond the charm who’s who of Lafayette movers Chamber of Commerce: however, is a dedicated, success- and shakers raised a glass to the www.lafayettechamber.org ful leader of the Chamber since man of the hour. His friend for 2005, who has increased mem- over forty years, Mac Carey Please submit bership by 42 percent and in- lauded him as having “the rare creased revenue by 65 percent. quality of making those around Letters and Opinions: In years past Lifson would dis- him better. Everybody loves letters@lamorinda qualify himself, but this time Jay.” A parade of speakers high- weekly.com around his objections were over- lighted his finer points including ruled. Kicking off the tribute/roast his love of the Grateful Dead, en- thusiasm, and civic pride. Even a group from the City’s Planning Department joined the fray with a Jay Lifson Photo Andy Scheck Police Report hilarious top ten list; they be- classic, “Like a Rolling Stone.” share a very special evening with my stowed upon him the first ever Clapping and singing along, the father, mother, family, friends and the Honorary City Planner award. audience chimed in on the chorus, wonderful people in Lafayette. The The star of the night that liter- “How does it feel? To be right at kid whose parents were told every ally sang Lifson’s praises was home, to be so well known, to sit year at report card time, ‘He has so Sign standoff, 1/14/2012 Someone collecting signatures for political City Manager Steven Falk, who on that throne, like a Jay Lif-son.” much potential, if only he applied issues claimed he was being harassed by the employee of a nearby stripped off shirt and tie in favor When asked for a comment, Lif- himself,’ got a chance to make his business. The employee returned the compliment, saying the sig- of leather jacket, t-shirt and funky son replied, “How about the ‘Hippie- family proud. I am one of the lucky nature gatherer was blocking the business handicap access. wig for his own version, with ad- Jock’ –as my dear friend Mac Carey people who enjoys what they do, justed lyrics, of the Bob Dylan put it –makes good! I was able to every day.” Ouch! 1/17/2012 Police think an 88 year old man may have mis- taken his car’s gas pedal for the brakes when attempting to park along Mt. Diablo Blvd. His car struck the plate glass window of a business. • Comfortable, Convenient “Nothingg Family and ““NothingN“Nothingothin And more ouch! 1/10/2012 An 89 year old man drove his car over makess meme Cosmetic Dentistry several curb lines, struck a retaining wall, two street signs and a fire mmakesmakesake me me happier tthanhan • Certified in Full Mouth hydrant before colliding with a fence. The driver was unhurt; the happierhahappierppier than than wall, signs, hydrant and fence were a little worse for wear. to see Reconstruction ttooto ssee eseee you smile!”ile!” Hello…Goodbye, 1/17/2012 If there’s one thing worse than having yyouoyouu ssmile!” msmile!” your car burgled, its having the burglar run right by and taunt you. A woman said she heard a loud smash, followed by the presumed burglar running by with a “see ya later!” comment. Her wallet was Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Providing Personalized Care through Quality Dentistry gone – cash and checks in the amount of $1400 total were missing. FFamilyFamilyamily & & CosmeticC Cosmeticosmetic DentistryD Dentistryentistry PProvidingroProvidingviding PersonalizedPe Personalizedrsonalized CareCa Carere throughth rthroughough QualityQ uQualityality DentistryD eDentistryntistry Damage to car window: $200. Hearing that cheeky comment: priceless. $40 off Scott D. Lothamer, DDS $40 off Out past curfew, 1/17/2012 A mother filed a missing persons report Scott D. Lothamer, DDS when her child was not home by 8pm. The missing “child” was 38 Moraga mention this ad to years old, and showed up at the house just before midnight. Once 925-376-4602Moraga receivemention $40 this off ad any to a mom…always a mom. 925-376-4602 receivedental $40 tretment off any Member: 1030 Country Club Drive dental tretment ADA • CDAMember: • CCDS • AACD 1030 Country Club Drive ADA CDA CCDS AACD Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A3

Mayor Federighi Delivers New Listing! State of the City Recap 765 AugustaA DDrive, MMoraga

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Carol Federighi Photo Andy Scheck ddressing a full house at the plus.” With a balanced budget and a Lafayette Park Hotel, Mayor substantial monetary safety net in the A 3727 Campolindo Dr., Moraga Carol Federighi reflected on the past reserve account, the city has a AAA Completely remodeled large home on a private 2.8 Great location! This home needs some updating and looked ahead to the future for the bond rating. ())+,-'"/$&$+&$/\()$)1)- "#$%&$'& City of Lafayette. She has served as Looking forward, she predicts (6)7$9:$$76)) '()*) mayor twice before, and has been on that in 2012 the City Council will the City Council since 1999, so she adopt the Downtown Specific Plan. $575,000 www.Orinda.com confidently gave a brief fact-filled This year will also bring improve- summary before the other event of the ment to the streetscapes – Pleasant evening, the Business Person of the Hill Road project is nearing comple- ELENA HOOD Year award. tion and the face lift of the sidewalks Federighi discussed the City’s fi- along Mt. Diablo is well underway. REAL ESTATE GROUP nances, “Despite a sluggish economy, C. Tyson we finished the year with a $2000 sur- (925)254-3030 BART Fleet of the Future LAFAYETTE O Larch Avenue, Moraga May Take a While Large 23.58 acre lot offering great views and privacy. By Cathy Tyson Call us for a private tour. $995,000 www.0LarchAve.com t’s only natural to start noticing a approximately $800 million. Visit Ifew gray hairs and wrinkles BART’s Board of Directors is ex- www.Orinda.com around a milestone birthday. As pected to award a contract in May se- for local real estate information and photos of all Lamorinda homes for sale! BART turns 40, it’s taking a hard look lecting one of the three finalists; all at the nation’s oldest transportation are from outside of the U.S.; Alstom fleet. Regular riders know that most – France, Bombardier Transit – of the cars in the system have seen Canada, and Hyundai Rotem – South Prepare your Roof and better days and can definitely use a Korea. The lucky winner will be ex- face lift. pected to manufacture ten test cars for On average a single car currently Phase 1 of the massive project to be Gutters for Winter runs 110,000 miles per year; collec- delivered in early 2015. New Work and Repairs tively the cars are nearing the end of Phase 2 is slated to follow a sim- their useful life. The BART Car Re- ilar formula, but voters may be asked All Types of Roofs and Gutters placement Project will replace to approve a tax to help defray costs. Clean/Screen, Roof Powerwashing. BART’s existing 669 cars over time Riders will see a payoff in mod- We do it all! and is currently projected to cost ap- ern, sleeker, more contemporary de- proximately $3.2 billion in year-of- sign made with more functional expenditure dollars, according to materials that can be wiped clean. Metropolitan Transportation Com- Goodbye nasty carpet and seats. Over mission (MTC) report in January. Three doors on each car will assist 20 Years Approximately three-quarters of the those getting in and out – especially Experience overall funding will come from the during peak commute hours. MTC, with BART contributing 25%, ... continued on page A9

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Civic News Public Meetings Town Council Wednesday, February 8, 7:00pm Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School, 1010 Camino Pablo Tri-City Meeting Thursday, February 9, 7:00 pm Lic #624045 Sarge Littlehale Community Room, 22 Orinda Way, Orinda BUILDING THE BAY AREA FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS Planning Commission 925.273.7692 Monday, February 6, 7:00 pm www.peraltaconstruction.com Moraga Library, 1500 Saint Marys Rd Design Review Monday, February 13, 7:00 pm Finance Committee Recommends Moraga Library, 1500 Saint Marys Rd Dipping into Palos Money School Board Meeting Moraga School District By Sophie Braccini Tuesday, February 14, 7:30 pm he Moraga Audit and Fi- The Audit and Finance Com- The Palos money represents Town asset. Paying one-time Joaquin Moraga Intermediate Tnance Committee was mittee meets quarterly to review the $2 million in developer fees money for a one-time expenditure School Auditorium tasked with considering options the state of the Town’s finances. the Town received as part of the is a good decision.” Mendonca 1010 Camino Pablo, Moraga to finance a $450,000 note on the Its members are Administrative agreement to develop 123 homes agreed, noting that the Town now www.moraga.k12.ca.us purchase of the Town’s corpora- Services Director Stephanie on the Palos Colorados property has a healthy reserve. See also AUHSD meeting page A2 tion yard at 331 Rheem Boule- Hom, Town Manager Jill along Moraga Road next to the Town Manager Jill Keimach Check online for agendas, meeting vard. The original plan called for Keimach, the Town’s volunteer Lafayette border. The funds are in said that she believes that the notes and announcements selling two Town-owned proper- Treasurer, Bob Kennedy, resident an account that bears a very min- community expects that the Palos Town of Moraga: ties to finance the purchase of the Bradley Ward, Mayor Mike Met- imal interest rate, less than 0.5 money would be used for Parks www.moraga.ca.us new building—the plan fell calf, and Council Member Karen percent according to Hom. So far, and Recreation purposes. No Chamber of Commerce: through when no buyer could be Mendonca. the Council’s position has always one on the Committee was sure of found for one property and the At its January meeting, the been to consider this money to be the exact wording of the agree- www.moragachamber.org sale of the other met with over- Committee reviewed Hom’s mid- a “bank” for the Town, a sum that ment with the Developer. “If we Moraga Citizens’ Network: whelming opposition from resi- year financial report that indi- it could borrow against, but must pay off the loan for 331 Rheem www.moragacitizensnetwork.org dents. Faced with the prospect of cated that the earnings and repay, until a complete strategy is with that money, we will com- having to borrow nearly half of a expenses of the Town are on agreed upon. plete the restoration of the Ha- million dollars to pay the note track, with a probable increase in The Committee also dis- cienda de las Flores to its original that’s coming due in March, the the property tax revenue. That cussed a goal that’s been articu- purpose,” said Mendonca, “and Committee recommended that the presentation was followed by a lated by both Hom and that is a part of the Parks and Town use part of its reserve, ei- decision regarding the Town’s Mendonca: the necessity for the Recreation master plan.” ther from the General Fund or surplus, now predicted to be Town to have a five-year strategic The Committee voted to rec- Police Report from the $2 million in developer slightly higher than expected. financial plan. “This should in- ommend that the note be paid off Parked with pot, 1/18/2012 ….And fees for Palos Colorados, known “We have reached our goal of clude the Palos Colorados now with the Town’s money, no medical marijuana card. Two as “Palos money” or “the Palos 50 percent of the General Fund money,” said Mendonca, “we using either the Palos bank or the people were sitting in a car parked on bank,” that’s been sitting for years set aside as a reserve by allocat- need to have a strategy on how to General Fund reserve. The Coun- Williams Drive after midnight, not a and is earning less than half a per- ing our surplus to that fund,” said invest that money for the best in- cil will discuss the issue at its crime in Moraga, but unusual. An cent interest. the Director. “Now the question is terest of the Town.” February 8th meeting. If the officer questioned the subjects, the The Town Council will decide how we allocate the rest of the But necessity may push the Council does not support that de- driver admitted to possessing mari- next week whether or not to ac- surplus.” The Committee agreed Council to make decisions re- cision, and some Council Mem- juana and gave the cop a package cept the recommendation. In the that it should be saved for road re- garding this money before a five- bers have been on record strongly with 8.5 grams of the evil weed. A past, the Council has considered pairs. “We need to tell voters that year plan is approved. “We have opposing touching the reserves, search netted an additional 3.11 the Palos money to be untouch- we are trying to save money for the Palos money sitting,” said the Town could create a bridge- grams. Driver was cited for posses- able until a long-term financial the roads as fast as we can,” said Metcalf, “paying for 331 Rheem loan for itself until it secures a sion of less than an ounce, the pas- strategy is agreed upon. the Mayor. is a one-time purchase of a good bank loan. senger ended up driving both of them home.

Hit and run, 1/18/2012 At approxi- Rancho Laguna Litigation Delays Playground Construction mately 2:00 p.m. a gray Chevy Tahoe By Sophie Braccini ran a red light at the intersection of o one wants to comment on public knowledge that a law suit space at Rancho Laguna Park and including the replacement of the Moraga Road and Rheem Boulevard it; pending litigation has a has been filed against the Town of create a dedicated area for off- play structure that was removed and clipped a Ford truck pulling a N way of silencing even the Town’s Moraga over the plan the Town leash dogs. All projects for the from the park last spring due to trailer. Chevy didn’t stop, although it was later located on Buckingham most vocal officials. But it is now Council approved to partition the park have now been put on hold, decay. Drive after colliding with a parked car. The driver was arrested for mis- Moraga Residents Request Clarification on Selection demeanor hit and run and for being unlicensed. Process Uncontrollable youth, 1/19/2012 A juvenile ransacked his residence and By Sophie Braccini had become a danger to himself and here is a risk of lack of Beans said that she, and many res- or among Council members.” public votes in the election that others. The subject eventually “Tfaith,” said David idents, had been stunned when Other residents indicated that they sends them to the Council. Most agreed to cooperate with police and Shapiro, referring to the way Mor- Howard Harpham was nominated were also surprised when they agreed that changing a rule, even was taken to Contra Costa Regional aga’s Vice Mayor was chosen by and elected Vice Mayor. “This has heard the news. an unwritten one, is worth a public Medical Center by the fire depart- the Town Council last December. nothing to do with that specific According to an unwritten debate. The issue will be put on ment. The issue was raised by resident choice,” clarified Beans, “but a rule, those who sit in the mayor the agenda of an upcoming Coun- D.U.I., 1/20/2012 A twenty-year-old Ellen Beans at the Town’s Goal 30-plus year tradition was broken and vice mayor seats are those cil meeting and will then be dis- drove his car approximately fifteen Setting session on January 28. with no discussion with the public who receive the majority of the cussed at length. feet off the road into a ditch near the Valle Staging Area on Canyon Road. The car’s airbags deployed and the young man was found in the back Start your seat. His blood shot watery eyes and “A High-tech Brain New Year slurred speech indicated to police that with the Patience with a of a Mother” an alcohol screening test was in Clean Fast order. His test came up just past the legal limit. He was cited then later Computer! Lic #855456 $25 OFF The Haddon Family, Orinda Residents, Owners/Operators released to sober driver to head one session* home. *exp. 2-29-2012 Fast Expert Computer Help Do business Car vs. sign, 1/20/2012 Both lost. A with a neighbor. car travelling southbound on Moraga from techmommy! Road jumped the curb at the entrance to the Rheem shopping center and hit • Troubleshoot any PC problem. a stop sign and parking light. No in- • Help in plain English, not tech talk. juries to the driver, but the car re- • Virus and spyware removal, system clean-up. quired towing from the scene. • Learn all of the software on your computer. • Master e-mail, web searches, filing, attachments. Kids caught smoking, 1/21/2012 At • Pre-purchase help for computers and electronics. the top of Ascot Drive, around 10:30 • Program iPod, cell phone, Blackberry, camera, GPS. at night, six juveniles were sitting in • Set-up and configure new computer, peripherals. Your comfort is our #1 priority a car. One young man in the back • Hardware upgrades, home network repairs. seat admitted he had been drinking • Learn the latest software back-up techniques. * earlier. He was later released to his • Personal training in your home, at your pace. Complete Winter dad. One of the two young ladies in “Over the years the front seat was in possession of an 925-377-7711 techmommy has been our computer Furnace Service open package of cigarettes, her friend savior and guru, untangling our hardware and * Offer exp. Feb 29 software problems with remarkable ease. in the driver’s seat was caught lying www.techmommy.com Thank goodness for techmommy. to cops. Both agreed to participate in We would be lost without her!” Serving the Bay Area’s Technology – Dan & Colleen, Moraga 925-521-1380 the Juvenile Diversion Program. Needs Since 1985 www.haddonheatingcooling.com Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A5

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The needs then were was my experience with building notes that it is almost finished. at Mercurio’s farewell party on Eing Public Works Director limited, and no one had antici- cases for getting grants for infra- “I am not especially con- January 19, including Staff Engi- Jill Mercurio’s farewell party, that pated that serious amounts of structure,” says Mercurio, “we’ve cerned about the RECON work neer John Sherbert who said that when she leaves a part of the life money had to be set aside to been quite successful over the being interrupted with Jill’s (Mer- he will miss her problem solving, of the party leaves with her. As maintain the infrastructure. past six years and were able to get curio’s) departure,” says Metcalf. mentoring, and leadership skills. Moraga Mayor Mike Metcalf put Today, residents pay the same a lot done.” Residents will re- “Jill Keimach (the Town Man- In Vallejo she will deal with sim- it, she brought an infectious high amount of property tax as any member the repaving of Camino ager) has arranged for the on-call ilar issues: infrastructure to be spiritedness that boosted the other Contra Costa resident, but Pablo, part of Rheem Boulevard, services of the engineering man- maintained and budget restric- morale of Town staff. The Public the difference is that less comes and Moraga Road. The Director ager in El Cerrito. Jerry Brad- tions. At least she will have some Works Director and Town Engi- back to feed the General Fund of was also able to get funding for shaw will be joining the RECON money to play with; the city re- neer was described as being “one their town. improvements around school team in the same capacity vacated cently very narrowly approved a of the boys”, respected for her “Moraga operates with, on av- grounds such as sidewalks and by Jill Mercurio. Jerry brings ex- 1% sales tax to be charged on competence and direct approach, erage, half the number of staff per crossroads. perience as the engineer who for- purchases of goods and services and appreciated for her warmth 1000 residents than anywhere But there is no Federal or mulated the El Cerrito street made within the city limits, to fi- and collaborative approach to else,” says Mercurio, “and the State funding for residential rehabilitation program.” Metcalf nance local services including in- management. As she leaves her pay and benefits are in the lower streets and that’s why the roads points out that several years ago frastructure maintenance. office, she shared some thoughts tier. So it was the understanding have been degrading to the point El Cerrito’s neighborhood streets about the past successes and the of previous Town Managers that of getting Moraga a regional rat- were in similar condition to challenges Moraga faces. Moraga was a training ground; a ing of ‘poor’, at the bottom of the Morag’s neighborhood streets Mercurio believes that Mor- place to advance one’s career, but ladder, among Contra Costa mu- today and credits Bradshaw with Property Tax aga’s biggest impairment can be not to retire.” Mercurio says that nicipalities. fashioning a pavement rehabilita- Allocations traced back to the passage of when then Town Manager Phil “We have a maintenance tion program which, once voters Of the total property tax resi- Prop. 13; the share that each mu- Vince hired her, he asked her to backlog of about $25 million,” passed the bond measure that dents pay, only a fraction goes nicipality gets today from the stay five years. She’s been in says Mercurio, “that is what funded it, was executed. Now El to municipalities. That percent- property tax collected within its charge for six and a half years and RECON (Revenue Enhancement Cerrito’s neighborhood streets are age was set in stone by Prop. boundaries was set for perpetuity is now taking a position with the Community Outreach to Neigh- mostly in “good” condition. 13. Those percentages for Lam- in 1978, when the town was only City of Vallejo as Assistant Public borhoods Committee) has been “That’s exactly the outcome orinda and a couple of nearby four years old. “Now the Town is Works Director and City Engi- working on: informing residents we’re shooting for in Moraga,” communities are: and adult and it is still getting neer. of the situation, and establishing says the Mayor, “I’m confident baby food,” she says. In addition to chronic under- a roadmap to get the repairs done, Jerry (Bradshaw) can give us a lot Moraga 5.3% When the Town was incorpo- staffing, the under-funding of the the best cost-effective way possi- of help. We are fortunate that Lafayette 6.8% rated in 1974, it was with the ex- Town has had a dramatic impact ble, and staged over a few years.” Contra Costa cities are always Orinda 7.4% press mandate to keep the on the maintenance backlog. Mercurio departs before the willing to help one another out.” Concord 10.4% government and services to a “One of the reasons I was hired plan is complete, although she Everyone was very emotional Pittsburg 15.8%

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Pending!

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1062 Via Baja, Lafayette 567 Miner Road, Orinda open.apr.com A Modernist's Dream. Stunning, secluded, Spanish, Orinda Country Club charmer. contemporary home with unrivaled views. 5bd Traditional, 1937, expanded (2700+/-sf), plus office, 4.5ba and 3600+/-sf. 350+ bottle wine remodeled kitchen/family room, hardwood floors, cellar, media room and a beautifully landscaped bonus rooms (4th bedroom or office/media yard with flat grass area. Close to freeway, BART room), opens to patios, gardens, level-yard, pool, and downtown. play structure, creek on 1.3+/-acres. $1,399,000 Lisa Brydon & Kristi Ives Team $1,150,000 Joanna Truelson

3662 West Road, Lafayette 230 Sheila Court, Moraga Charming, three bedroom home in downtown Great price! Great house! Five bedrooms and Lafayette. A block to town and BART. Updated three updated bathrooms on a large lot fit for an kitchen and baths, new paint, hardwood floors. active family. Granite kitchen and lots of updates. Very close to restaurants and shopping. Level, Cul-de-sac location near farmer’s market, grades fenced yard, two-car garage plus additional K-8 schools, park and trails. Move-in ready. Best parking. Moraga value. $799,000 Alan Marks $789,000 Lori Legler

Square footage, acreage, and other information herein, has been received from one or more of a variety of different sources. Such information has not been verified by Alain Pinel Realtors. If important to buyers, buyers should conduct their own investigation. ORINDA | 2 Theatre Square, Suite 215 925.258.1111 Page: A6 LAMORINDA WEEKLYwww.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 TheHattersleys.com Helping You Achieve Your Goals! Inventory is very low and many Buyers are looking so call now for help in preparing your home to sell. Civic News We know every transaction is unique and very personal. Public Meetings Together with you, we create a partnership, a City Council custom plan for you. Tuesday, February 7, 7:00 pm Let our resources form a foundation for your success! Auditorium, Orinda Library, 26 Orinda Way Peter Hattersley Darlene Hattersley Tri-City Meeting RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE 925.708.9515 925.360.9588 City Council DRE# r00445794 DRE# 01181995 Thursday, February 9, 7:00 pm Find MLS Listings and Valuable Buyer and Seller Tips on our Website. Sarge Littlehale Community Room, 22 Orinda Way, Orinda Planning Commission A New Thread in the Fabric of Orinda’s Community Tuesday, February 28, at 7:00 pm Auditorium, Orinda Library, Michelle Lacy takes the field as Orinda’s new Director of Parks and Recreation 26 Orinda Way Tuesday, February 14 canceled By Laurie Snyder Historical Landmark y role is to serve the ties that range from open space five major program areas – recre- is busy all the time,” says Lacy. “Mcommunity,” says areas to landscaped medians and ation, facility maintenance, facility Parks and Recreation staff work Committee Michelle Lacy, the new Director groomed playfields, and a diverse management (rentals), parks and hard to tailor activities and edu- Tuesday, February 28, 3:00 pm of Parks and Recreation whose array of arts and cultural happen- landscaping, and administration – cational offerings to the specific Gallery Room, Library first day with the City of Orinda ings, Lacy oversees roughly ten while keeping an eye on the cur- constituencies they serve. Pro- 26 Orinda Way was January 3, 2012. full and part-time permanent staff rent fiscal year’s projected budget grams for seniors give older men School Board Meeting She’s got a challenging task. and approximately 30 additional expenditures of $2,178,768. and women vital opportunities to With programs serving babies all temporary and seasonal personnel Take the Orinda Community remain active and socialize. Orinda Union School District the way up to seniors, and facili- ensuring smooth operations across Center, for example. “This place ... continued on next page Monday, February 13, 6:00 pm

OUSD Office 8 Altarinda Road, Orinda Safe Routes to Schools – But How? www.orindaschools.org See also AUHSD meeting page A2 Proposed pedestrian path on Moraga Way sparks surprising debate Check online for agendas, meeting By Laurie Snyder notes and announcements roughly 3,355 linear foot pathway that the project might actually make City of Orinda: within the public right-of-way near Moraga Way more dangerous since it www.cityoforinda.org Miramonte High School. It would be would take space from both traffic Chamber of Commerce: located on the western side of Moraga lanes to build the pathway. www.orindachamber.org Way from El Camino Moraga to Ivy Several suggested that there are The Orinda Association: Drive south. The current paved road- not enough walkers to warrant the ex- www.orindaassociation.org way shoulder would be converted to pense when the City is still struggling a five-foot wide asphalt pathway, and to get its roads paved, and advised separated from bicycle lanes by an as- planners that children and their par- phalt dike with conforms created for ents actually prefer to take back ways residential driveways entering onto through neighborhoods rather than the west side of Moraga Way. The walking along Moraga Way. Others shoulder cross slope would also be expressed the belief that, “If we build Police Report flattened to comply with the Ameri- it, they will come.” In left field, 1/18/2012 An cans with Disabilities Act. One advocated an even bolder ap- anonymous caller tipped Orinda * Pedestrian Landing Area defined Additionally, two push-button proach, recommending that the path- by constructing asphalt curb police about a white car sitting Rectangular Rapid Flashing Bea- way be lengthened further because it in an empty field. Police found cons would be installed on opposite would make the City safer and en- a man and woman milling sides of a striped crosswalk on courage people to get out of their cars around the car, and luggage Illustration provided Moraga Way at Estabueno and and walk. strewn about. The suspects fled rindans provided a primer for outgrowth of the City’s larger Bicy- Eastwood Drive. Described as When Orinda City Council con- on foot, the woman was found. Oother communities on how to cle, Trails and Walkways Master Plan state-of-the-art by the representa- sidered the issue at its August 2011 Police also found a controlled conduct civil, productive discourse at prepared by Alta Planning + Design tives of outside consultants, Harris Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) re- substance and burglary tools. a recent community meeting at Mira- and adopted by the City in January & Associates, the solar-powered view, Council members were ad- She was transported to Martinez monte High School. The January 24 2011. beacons are viewed as less expen- vised that $35,000 would be spent Detention Facility and booked. public hearing offered residents the Carey noted that residents have sive and greener than in-roadway for planning, design, and administra- opportunity to weigh in on proposed been concerned about bicycle and enhanced crosswalk beacons. tion plus $181,930 for construction This is why DUI is illegal, construction plans for a new pedes- pedestrian safety in the neighborhood One neighbor observed that, “The and $14,000 for construction man- 1/15/2012 Investigation of an trian pathway on Moraga Way, and for quite some time. Attendees were value of having a better crosswalk at agement for a total of $230,930. accident on Ivy Drive resulted in was led by City Engineer Janice nearly evenly divided in favor and Eastwood is huge,” while another ex- That construction figure has the arrest of the self-admitted Carey. against the project. pressed his appreciation for the hard since been revised upward by drunk driver. His two passen- The idea for the pathway was an Planners propose to create a work done by City staff before stating $100,000 for an estimated total proj- gers were injured, one required ect cost of $330,930, as indicated on surgery. The driver was med- page II-21 of the final version of the ically screened before he was CIP that was adopted by Council for booked into Martinez Detention 2011-2015. Facility and charged with 2 Staff have already secured felony counts and 1 misde- $166,000 from the Metropolitan meanor. Transportation Commission’s Safe Routes to Schools program, and an- Right, aid…1/18/2012 Police ticipate making up the difference by following up on witness reports using $54,930 in City park dedica- of a woman screaming and tion fees from fiscal years 2012 and drinking wine in the Rite Aid 2013, $10,000 from 2012 gas tax bathroom found her on Orinda revenues, and $100,000 in 2013 Way, clearly Drunk in Public. An exceptional neighborhood local traffic impact fees. She was found to be in violation When asked about the increase of her terms of probation requir- deserves exceptional service. in estimated expenditures, Carey ex- ing she consume no alcohol, plained that project costs change as WheWhenn you call BaBanknk of AAmerica,merica, you cacann rrestest assuassuredred that ouourr top ppriorityriority is transported and booked into the design becomes “more refined as providing the information you need to make well-informed home financing providing the information you need to make well-informed home financing the project design becomes more Martinez Detention Facility. decisiodecisions.ns. We bbringring pepersonalrsonal seservicervice to the nneighborhood,eighborhood, iincluding:ncluding: complete.” Saying that there may be Their lucky day, 1/13/2012 Two • A wide vavarietyriety of hohomeme fifinancingnancing optio optionsns at least four budget phases “in esti- men who reportedly stole from • A coconvenientnvenient aandnd efficieefficientnt ho homeme loa loann p rprocessocess mating a project while it goes through the design stage: conceptual, Orinda Safeway fled the scene As papartrt of the BaBanknk of AAmericamerica fafamily,mily, I will woworkrk closely with you to mmakeake schematic, design development, and and led police on a merry chase susurere youyourr hohomeme fifinancingnancing expe experiencerience is is o nonee that that you’ll you’ll be be glad glad to to tell tell you yourr in their 1986 Nissan all the way ffriendsriends aandnd associates about. working drawings,” she also noted into Oakland, where OPD was that, “We will not really know the instructed to terminate the pur- If you would like information about your home loan options, contact me today. true cost of the project until it is bid for construction.” suit. Megan Kermani Megan Kermani One resident urged scaling the Retail Sales MaManagernager Methinks thou dost protest too project back to simply create a safe much! 1/10/2012 A protester NMLS ID: 633587 crosswalk rather than building the protesting with a protest sign en- 925.208.2453 entire pathway, stating that proposed countered a counter-protester [email protected]@bankofamerica.com plan was not a good solution for res- when the party of the second http://http://mortgage.bankofamerica.com/megankermanimortgage.bankofamerica.com/megankermani idents who live along the section of part spray-painted the sign of Moraga Way where the path would the party of the first part. Orig- be located. inal protester signed a citizen’s All agreed on one thing: There is arrest for the newbie; the an increasing need to inspire Orinda counter-protester admitted van- motorists to drive more safely on dalizing the protester’s sign, and CCreditredit andand collatecollateralral aarere subjectsubject toto aapproval.pproval. TeTermsrms and conditions aapply.pply. ThisThis isis notnot aa commitmentcommitment toto lend.lend. PPrograms,rograms, rrates,ates, community roads – particularly so tetermsrms and conditions aarere subjectsubject toto chanchangege withoutwithout notice.notice. BankBank ofof AmeAmerica,rica, N.A.,N.A., MembeMemberr FDIC.FDIC. EEqualqual HousinHousingg LendeLender.r. was arrested, cited and released ©2009 Bank of AmeAmericarica CoCorporation.rporation. 00-62-0115D 01-2011 ARR1J5O0 when driving near schools and other at the scene of the protest crime. places where children are present. Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A7 Certified Green Builder Just Sold Just Sold

McCartt Construction Inc. Orinda, 4 BR / 3 BA, 1.2 acres Orinda, 4 BR / 4 BA, 2.7 acres Custom Homes & Renovations For current local Market Trends data, visit: Building in Lamorinda Since 1999 www.LamorindaValues.com (925) 376-5717 For a complimentary market analysis [email protected] of your specific property, contact Frank today! Orinda, CA Lic. # 770687 Frank Woodward “As seen on” Specializing in “AsAs heard on HG Radio”Radio 925.253.4603 [email protected] Build It GREEN Lamorinda Fine Smart Solutions from the Ground Up = = Homes & Property Orinda Lafayette Moraga A New Thread in the Fabric of Orinda’s Community ... continued from page A6 Traditional gyms cater mostly spend time together and main- make a difference in their lives.” to young customers, observes taining “the fabric of the commu- Orinda’s Parks and Recre- Lacy. So community physical nity.” ation budget has traditionally recreation programs are critical Lacy is well positioned to been a strong one with user fees because they help seniors keep help guide Orinda’s harmonic playing a significant role in cov- up their mobility at a reasonable convergence. With a degree in or- ering operational costs. To main- cost. Many older Orindans also ganizational management and tain the high standard of Orinda’s fend off the demon of isolation nearly ten years of experience as programs and services, Lacy will by playing bridge and engaging the Town of Danville’s Recre- evaluate existing programs to de- in other weekly programs to stay ation Services Manager, she was termine where improvements connected with friends. responsible for ensuring the might be made and will also en- Teens are afforded a safe- smooth operation of seven pro- gage staff in long-range planning. structured environment where gram areas, 30 sports fields, five She’ll also be working to keep they’re not pressured to do any- public buildings, a dog park, and the development of the Wilder thing unhealthy or illegal. a $3 million budget – a budget playfields on track for a June Programs tailored to pre- that grew significantly during her 2012 opening, a big project that schoolers and early elementary tenure. has already occupied much of her age children enable little ones to One other strong point in her first few weeks on the job. Michelle Lacy, Orinda’s new Director of Parks and Recreation, checks out explore their world while fine- favor is that she knows what it’s One only needs to peruse the the daytime activity near Orinda’s tennis courts. “This place is busy all the tuning their manners and learning like in the trenches. Although she 234-page Bicycle, Trails and time,” she says of the Orinda Community Center and its neighboring park. how to get along with others in had thought about becoming a Walkways Master Plan to get a Photo Laurie Snyder the wider world. While the kids teacher, she decided that there sense of just how busy Michelle are making friends, their moms was a better path for her. So, she Lacy will be managing Orinda’s by the City in January 2011. sources at her disposal and sup- are developing social and support embarked on a career in Parks existing wealth of resources – re- “Well maintained public port from a community that networks. and Recreation, starting out as a sources that could expand even spaces are important to the iden- draws strength from its busy cul- “Parks and Rec just makes day camp director and working farther based on this ambitious tity of the community,” states tural and recreational scene, life better,” says Lacy. “It brings her way up. and far-reaching plan which was Lacy, who notes that she also she’ll have ample opportunity to neighborhoods together,” en- “I wanted to help people – developed under Lacy’s prede- likes “to make kids and families do just that in the days and years abling residents to play and wanted to work with youth and cessor, Todd Skinner, and adopted smile.” With significant re- ahead.

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Our mission is to provide personalized care, help maintain independence and Civic News Moraga AT HOME enhance our client’s quality of life on a daily basis. • Fully bonded and insured Moraga Police Choose Nixle • Geriatric care management • Hourly care for Emergency Messaging • Live-in care 3645 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite D Lafayette • Transportation to and from By Sophie Braccini (beside Trader Joe’s) medical appointments www.excellentcareathome.com • Medication reminders Call to schedule a free assessment and plan care review. 925-284-1213

courtesy of www.nixle.com/

he Moraga Town Council re- www.nixle.com. Subscribing to Tcently approved the usage of Nixle is easy and free. Enter your Nixle by its Police Department for name, address and telephone num- emergency messaging to residents. ber. Adding the phone number is The decision followed a recent optional, but if you just enter your road closure on Moraga Way that email you will not receive text mes- created considerable inconven- sages. The system sends you alerts ience for Lamorinda residents and from official agencies located in served as a reminder that, accord- your area that have signed onto ing to the Police Department, the Nixle. You will be automatically community should be doing a bet- signed up to receive messages from ter job of preparing for minor the Moraga Police Department; emergencies, as well as for major other towns or agencies of interest emergencies. Nixle, a communica- can be added to and removed from tion system used by some 5,000 your alarm system. public agencies, will disseminate “We met today with Chief important information to as many Priebe and our Emergency Pre- stakeholders as possible, as paredness Coordinator Dennis quickly as possible, either to their Rein,” said Moraga Orinda Fire phones or via email. Department Chief Randy Bradley, In order for the system to be ef- “We’ll be working also with the fective, residents have to register cities of Lafayette and Orinda. their information, email and/or mo- This is an area where regionaliza- bile phone. Moraga Police Chief tion makes sense and will im- Bob Priebe encourages all residents prove efficiency. We will identify to sign up for Nixle. “With no cost ways for the Fire Department to to the Department, taxpayers, or use it through the Police Depart- residents, the Nixle Connect is a ment and we are very supportive cost-effective solution,” said the of it.” Chief. “We are excited to have the Following the meeting, the Po- Moraga Police Department join lice Department set up an account over 4,600 agencies across the to communicate with the public via nation that use Nixle for their text/SMS, e-mail, and/or Internet means of real-time communica- posts depending on what residents tion,” said Eric Liu, Nixle CEO. choose for themselves. “The mes- “With Nixle Connect, public no- sages we will send will address is- tification is made easy. It assures sues such as a road closure, a law that the Moraga community will enforcement activity, a fire re- quickly receive the information sponse,” said Priebe, adding, they need the most, such as traffic “Nixle will also be part of the reports, crime alerts, and emer- Town’s Emergency Response Plan gency notifications.” Currently, for communicating with residents.” Walnut Creek uses Nixle exten- You can register to receive mes- sively and Lafayette recently sages from Moraga Police by send- joined. Nixle indicates that more ing a text message with your zip than 700,000 citizens nationwide code to 888777, and online registra- have signed up to take advantage tion is also available at of their service. About Nixle Founded in 2007, Nixle is a privately held company based in San Francisco. Nixle is a Community Information Service dedicated to helping people get access to the information they need, depend- ing on their physical location. Only authenticated agencies and community organizations can securely publish information. There are four types of messages; Alerts (many would refer to this as an emergency type alert), Advisories (less urgent need-to-know in- formation), Community Information (day-to-day neighborhood to community-level information), Traffic (very localized traffic infor- mation). Nixle is the only messaging service certified by the Inter- national Justice and Safety Networks (Nlets), which is owned by the 50 states, links together and supports every federal, state and local law enforcement, justice and public safety agency for the pur- pose of sharing and exchanging critical information. “Our goal will be to get every local, state and federal agency to link into the Nixle network and provide the public with every type of information, from emergency notification to day-to-day information on traffic, missing persons and local events. The more agencies and citizens you sign up, the better it will be for public safety,” said CEO Eric Liu in an interview with Government Security News. In order to be able to continue to provide this free service, Nixle is now rolling out additional paid plans that incorporate added functionality plus upcoming new releases.

Meet the Mayor Continues

From left: Bill Snyder, Jill Keimach, Mike Metcalf and Susan Marcconi Photo Andy Scheck

Moraga’s new mayor, Mike Metcalf, continues the tradition started by Mayor Karen Mendonca last year. The third Friday of the month, the Mayor and the Town Manager meet informally in the morning with their constituency at Terzetto Cuisine. Resi- dents are welcome to drop by and ask questions. Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A9

Civic News Lafayette Q Q

BART Fleet of the Future May Take a While    Q ... continued from page A2 Q Q     Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Although a final design has not been chosen, this image shows the most favored selection. Illustration provided Q BMW Designworks came up into consideration for the final de- BART Customer Service directly. Q with a layout that allows for more sign. “We’ve had robust public Multiple comments and com- room for bikes, wheelchairs and feedback to the program,” said plaints will go to their mainte- Q packages made possible with BART spokesperson Luna nance department to encourage Q input from approximately 10,000 Salaver. The first actual train car grinding the divots along the riders and concerned residents. will arrive for testing in 2013. track that are to blame for the Q “The public spoke loud and clear Deliveries of the road tested shiny racket. Go to BART.gov, then Q that maximizing seating was a top new redesigned cars should com- click on “About BART” for the Q priority. Designing seat configu- mence in January, 2015. If all “Contact Us” page; phone num- P    Q P   rations is a delicate balancing act goes according to schedule, deliv- bers, along with e-mail and regu-   Q   S Q of comfort and capacity,” noted a ery of the 260 new and improved lar mail information can be found      report from BART on their Fleet cars for Phase 1 should run from there. For your convenience, sta-      Q of the Future. approximately September of tion agents also have postage paid          Q Once the final contract has 2016 to December 2018. Finding comment cards. The squeaky been awarded to one of the three a reliable, comfortable fleet to wheel gets the grease.  Q finalists, the supplier will provide handle a growing number of com- Also in Lafayette, there were an actual size mock-up that will muters obviously takes a while. rumors of an Antique Faire in the Q be available to the public for in- For Lafayette residents get- BART parking lot starting this Q spection, tentatively scheduled ting tired of the shrill screeching spring. Organizers withdrew  Q for later this year. Comments noise coming from the tracks, their application and now plan on about the sample car will be taken Salaver recommends contacting locating in downtown Concord.    Q        !"" # $"%& '' Q Share your thoughts, insights and opinions with your community. Q

Send a letter to the editor: Q   ''"#$$%$"& [email protected] Women’s Heart Health

If you’re like many women, you probably spend much of your time caring for others…and not enough time educating and caring for your- self. For example, do you know that the leading cause of death for women is heart disease? Many signs and signals that precede a cardiac event are different in women than in men. Cardiologist Earl Holloway, MD, will give an overview of symptoms that can be cause for concern at this free heart care discussion. `

Thursday, February 23rd 6:30 – 8:00 PM Lafayette Library 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette

Call (510) 869-6737, or email [email protected] to reserve your seat. Page: A10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Share your thoughts with our community! Opinions in Letters to the Editor are the express views of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. All published letters will include the writer's name and city/town of residence -- we will only accept letters from those who live in, or own a business in, John Briggs De Garmo the communities comprising Lamorinda (please give us your phone number for verification purposes only). John (Jack) De Garmo Letters should be 350 words or less; letters of up to 500 words will be accepted on a space-available basis. passed away peacefully in his email: [email protected]; Regular mail: Lamorinda Weekly, P.O.Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570 sleep at Tender Touch Editor: we will need something in the felt additional taxes would have Residential Care in Walnut range of $60 million. The total a negative impact on property Creek on January 17th, at 87 I am pleased to see that the City annual budget for the City is values, so together with two years old. He joins his wife of of Orinda is going to poll its res- only $10 - $11 million. The day neighbors in the real estate in- 57 years, Ann De Garmo, who idents to measure the level of is gone when we can rely on out- dustry, Lisa Geary and Jeannie died April 11, 2011. John was support for taking action to fix side help at the state or federal Anderson, we polled Realtors. the son of Margaret (Briggs) and our roads. I have been a resident level to address these problems. We found that generally local Kenneth De Garmo and is of Orinda for 32 years. We Pointing fingers and debating Realtors felt a moderate tax in- April 4, 1924 - January 17, 2012 survived by his sister Jeane moved here because Orinda was about who should have done crease would not negatively af- Brown of Granville Ohio, and one of the premier communities what is not going to get our fect home values or sales, but three children (and spouses) Lori Prince (Robert Hum), Bill De in the Bay Area. While that has- roads fixed. It is time for us to continued deferment of road Garmo (Maureen) and Bob De Garmo (Lisa), all Bay Area n’t changed, it is disheartening to step forward as a united commu- maintenance would. I also re- residents. Additionally he is survived by four grandchildren see the continuing deterioration nity and do the right thing to cently spoke against MOFD’s Melody Prince, Brian, Michael, and Matthew De Garmo. of our roads. As a civil engineer solve this problem. proposed commercial purchase John was born in Evanston, Illinois and also resided in and a transportation planner I because I understood that any Rockford, Illinois and Edina, Minnesota prior to moving to know what level of effort it takes Sincerely, perceived misuse of funds by a California in 1967. He was a long time resident of Orinda before over time to maintain roads. Be- Bill Hurrell local public entity would fuel a moving to Walnut Creek in 2006. John attended Hamilton College sides the annoyance of maneu- Orinda negative response to any future in New York and graduated from Northwestern University in vering around the potholes, spending, and Orinda’s roads are Illinois in 1946 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He cracks and bumps, the poor road Editor: more important to me than worked for Mobil Oil Corporation for a number of years before conditions pose a threat to bicy- MOFD’s administrative staff retiring from full time work. John was active in the Episcopal clists and pedestrians of all ages. Having worked with the city and having comfortable digs. church as a Lay Reader and Eucharistic Visitor and committed to Year after year the amount of my neighbors over the past two We are all familiar with the argu- outreach activities, often visiting residents of nursing homes. For money available has fallen way years to successfully repave a ments for a bond measure hav- over 20 years he served in leadership roles in Camps Farthest Out short of what is needed. Now large portion of Crestview Drive, ing to do with safety, fewer car (CFO), a group of nondenominational Christian retreats across the our wonderful community is I have come to some realizations repairs, increased property val- US. John loved music and at one time sang barbershop harmony known as having some of the about Orinda’s infrastructure ues, community pride, and peace with a local chapter of SPEBSQSA. poorest pavement conditions in problems. of mind, but I suggest that the A memorial service will be held at St. Stephens Episcopal the Bay Area. It is not a matter There is not nearly enough more involved you are, the more Church, 66 Saint Stephen Drive in Orinda on Saturday of saving money by reducing money in the city budget to ad- you will want to see Orinda suc- February 18th at 3:00 PM. For those wishing to make a city expenditures to put more dress the problem. Nobody likes ceed in its efforts to repair its in- contribution in his honor, consider a gift to St Stephen's Episcopal into road maintenance. In order the idea of increased taxes, but frastructure. Be a part of the Church memorial fund. For friends and family, an online guestbook to put our roads in good repair frankly, I would rather that we solution. and picture gallery is available on this site: princehum.org raise the money and spend it right here where we can all keep Diana Stephens an eye it. We cannot expect any- Orinda one to effectively and efficiently solve this city’s most pressing Editor: BIG BAND issue without resources, but those resources must be spent The Moraga-Orinda Fire District wisely. (MOFD) states that they have BALL ROOM DANCE/SHOW I suspect it will be very difficult $18 million in pension liabilities. to get 2/3 of voters to approve In reality, footnote 8 of their au- such a tax, especially when half dited financial statements shows Rheem Theatre, of Orindans live on reasonably that they have liabilities with an 350 Park Street Moraga sound roads. People give a myr- accounting value of $143 million iad of reasons why they would and offsetting assets of $125 Come swing with your friends and neighbors not approve additional taxes, million. The market value of or just watch the show! often reaching back into our these assets is less; about $117 short history to point out various million. But what is the $143 expenditures that were not nec- million of liabilities? It is the essary, or to raise concerns about present value, using a 7.75% dis- the negative aspects of higher count rate, of a 60 year stream of taxes, or simply not trusting our future liabilities. What is their government leaders to do the undiscounted value? No one right thing. seems to know or will tell but How can we move past dis- one person has estimated that cussing the problems and to- they add up to over $600 mil- wards a working solution? lion. If you discount them at a With special guest Consider the comments you hear lower rate, let's say 6%, the pres- singer Mary Ann Meltzer when discussing this topic with ent value would be $185 million friends and neighbors. Consider and our "net liability" would your own personal skill set and then be closer to $70 million just Friday, February 3rd what you can do to help the com- for pensions. A $70 million pen- munity. To give you an exam- sion obligation is a far cry from The doors will swing open at 6:30pm. ple, while the city was looking the $18 million MOFD projec- Brush up your moves with dance instructor Gail Enright beginning at into the idea of benefit assess- tion. 7:00pm. Then at 8:00pm, get ready to be entertained by the 31 piece ment districts, I polled my band that includes musicians from 10 years old to 92. neighbors about their feelings on Vince Maiorana the subject. Some respondents Orinda

Tickets $10 at the door Join our Public Forum or at the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce If you have significant knowledge about an issue facing Lamorinda or one of its cities that requires y more than the 350 words to which we must limit Letters to the Editor, don’t despair! You can submit Call 284-7404 for reservations your letter to our Public Forum section. Just send your letter to [email protected] and let us know you’d like to be considered for the Public Forum. Public Forum JOIN IT

The AAP on their Healthy Children website (a website for NHTSA also recommends keeping a child in a restraint as Seatbelt Laws and School Parents) has a clear, thorough explanation of when children long as possible and waiting until age 13 to allow a child to should move from one restraint device to another and even- travel in the front seat. To reiterate, California law states a Age Children tually out of the booster. Its guidelines for a booster state, “As child can move to the front much sooner- at 8 years of age. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration a general guideline, a child has outgrown his forward-facing Failure to comply with California law will result in a $475 (NHTSA) states that car crashes are the leading cause of death seat when any one of the following is true: fine. Failure to comply with the AAP and NHTSA recom- for children aged 3-14. On January 1, 2012, California passed • He reaches the top weight or height allowed for mendations could result in far worse. You are informed and a new law regarding car seat safety. The law is simple. Chil- his seat with a harness. the decision is yours. dren under the age of 8 years old OR under 4 feet 9 inches • His shoulders are above the top harness slots. (57 inches) need to be secured in a car seat or booster seat. • His ears have reached the top of the seat. Internet Resources: Also, children under 8 years old need to be seated in the back They recommend that children remain in a booster “until 4 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: seat. This new law has many parents questioning the “or” in feet 9 inches which is generally between 8 and 12 years of http://www.nhtsa.gov/Safety/CPS the law and trying to understand what it means. age.“ Healthy Children: http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ Officer Will Davis of the Moraga Police Department stated Why the discrepancy? California law says 8 years old and safety-prevention/on-the-go/pages/Car-Safety-Seats- that the minimum was raised to protect our children. He com- the AAP stretches it to potentially 12 years old? Looking at Information-for-Families.aspx mented, “The new law is the minimum. Children can stay in the standard growth charts that a majority of pediatricians use, California Highway Patrol: http://www.chp.ca.gov/commu- their seats longer, but this is the minimum.” A child can move an 8 year old who was 57 inches would be in the 100%. It is nity/safeseat.html out of a booster when they reach either of the two criteria- age not until 11 years of age when boys and girls are at the 50% or height. So what should be the minimum? How does Cal- mark when 57 inches. So clearly, California law is setting a Becky Maher ifornia law compare to what is recommended by the Ameri- minimum as a 57 inch 8 year old would be off the charts. Moraga can Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the NHTSA, which The AAP also recommends that children remain in the back (Becky Maher is a Moraga mom and former Pediatric Nurse analyzes the impact and safety tests? seat until they are 13 years old for optimal protection. The Practitioner) Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: A11 Moraga Orinda Fire District Board of Directors Meetings Meetings of the MOFD Board of Directors are open to the public and take place on the third Wednesday of each month at the Moraga Library Community Room, 1500 St. Mary’s Road, Moraga. SHORT SALES Why they actually make a lot of “cents”. Next meeting: Tuesday, February 7th at 6:30pm or Sunday, February 12th at 4:00pm Next regular MOFD Board meeting February 15, 2012 7:00 pm at the Moraga Library, 1500 St. Mary's Road • Come and learn how to utilize recent changes in the laws governing short Meeting Feb. 1, 2012 canceled sales to create a viable exit strategy if your home is underwater and you are (go to www.mofd.org as the meeting date approaches for more information) struggling to make payments. • Considering a short sale purchase? Buyers information will also be discussed. • Let our panel of advisors give you comprehensive information with sensitivity MOFD Board Reverses and lack of judgment. • Four experts will share the latest information about short sales so you can Course, Cancels Building make wise decisions. Purchase Contract Your Trusted Advisors for the Session: By Lucy Amaral Alan J. Sternberg James McGill Debbie Johnston April Matthews n a surprising turn of events at ters to the editor in local publica- Attorney At Law GMAC Mortgage Village Associates Village Associates Iits January 18 Board meeting, tions, have been overwhelmingly the Moraga Orinda Fire District negative. Weil noted that he felt We CAN help – call today as seating is limited. (MOFD) Board of Directors can- these negative comments came celled the purchase of a potential from not having the complete in- TWO SESSIONS: Tuesday, February 7th at 6:30pm or administrative building, sacrific- formation. “The failure of this ing a $25,000 deposit, and putting Board is not that we have not Sunday, February 12th at 4:00pm the District back to square one come up with a good economic with regards to where to house its plan, but rather that we did not do Location: Village Associates, 93 Moraga Way, Orinda, Upstairs Conference Room staff. The sale of the building a good job of educating the com- had been scheduled to close on munity," he said. January 26. Board Member Frank Sper- Register Now: The Board approved the pur- ling, who had previously voted chase of the building, located at for the purchase of the building, call or email 1150 Moraga Way, at its Decem- echoed Weil's concerns and Debbie or April ber 28, 2011 Board meeting. Re- changed his vote as well. Sper- locating MOFD's administrative ling said while he felt the District staff was determined to be the had fully researched this option first step in the remodeling of Sta- and he fully supported the pur- tion 41 in Moraga. A facilities re- chase of the building before, he Debbie JohnstonASSOCIATES April Matthews port had identified gender, space felt individuals in the District Village AssociatesREAL ESTATE Village Associates and ADA required upgrades were have created a perceived reality DRE #01206373 DRE#01301392 needed for that station. One op- through purposeful inaccuracies 925-285-8556 925-253-2147 tion was to combine the adminis- and it was too difficult to try and trative offices, currently split change that reality. [email protected] [email protected] between Station 45 in Orinda and Board Members Richard Station 41 in Moraga, into a sin- Olsen and Brook Mancinelli, who gle office and repurpose the space opposed the purchase of the in Station 41. building from the outset, admitted In a prepared statement dur- being caught off guard. ing the January meeting, Board “That must not have been an President Fred Weil said that easy decision for (Weil),” said while he felt the Board had vetted Mancinelli later. “But my expe- the purchase decision, the nega- riences on the Board with him tive public perception could put have taught me that he arrived the future of the District in jeop- there after a considerable amount ardy and he therefore now op- of thoughtful deliberation.” posed the purchase of the Mancinelli also said that, building. "The risk is not that we going forward from here, he will not be able to continue to de- hoped they would continue to liver services to the community if make progress on their highest we buy 1150," said Weil. "But priorities: The reconstruction of rather that the District may be ir- station 43 in Orinda and upgrades rationally torn apart and that our to Station 41. correct economic decision may John Wyro, who attended via be the trigger." teleconferencing, had no com- The purchase, which was ap- ment. Weil charged MOFD Fire proved by a three to two vote, Chief Randy Bradley to add an was highly criticized by not only item on an upcoming agenda to the dissenting board members but discuss their office space needs also many members of the com- and options. munity. Public comments against A special meeting was held the purchase, both at the MOFD Saturday, January 21, to formally Board Meetings and through let- cancel the contract.

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Lic# 681593 General Contractor Buyer demand for Lamorinda homes is currently very high and housing inventory is very low! 925.631.1055 www.MVCRemodeling.com Contact me today. Specializing in kitchens & bathrooms. ASSOCIATES REAL ESTATE All forms residential remodel/repair. 925-253-2147 93 Moraga Way, #103, Orinda April Matthews www.villageassociates.com • www.dreamhomelamorinda.com “A little bit of myself goes into every job.” Michael VerBrugge, Owner, Moraga Resident ...from Front Page Clean | Courteous | Conscientious On-time | Trustworthy | Local References Full design team resources available Orinda City Council Initiates Eminent Domain Proceedings to Keep Glorietta Project on Track ... continued from page A1 C abinet M odifications Council Member Amy Worth face of the affected properties to guidance, the Allens have been noted that the City has been their condition before construc- consulting with an arborist re- working since the 2000 flood to tion.” garding the project’s possible ef- With over 25 years fulfilling custom needs, we can alter or modify identify the best way to fix the Because time is now running fect on their backyard, including most cabinetry, while still utilizing your existing cabinetry for: problem. Those plans are detailed out, the Council concluded that the potential impact to a redwood • Large TVs/ Refrigerators and appliances Licensed Cabinet & • Recycle Bins and shelf pullouts Millwork Contractor in numerous staff reports on the the easements on the remaining tree estimated to be 75-feet tall. • Cabinet alterations/repairs #598395 City’s web site. In a nutshell, it’s properties are “compatible with Removing the tree would totally Thinking about home, office, entertainment, custom cabinetry, shelving, complex; it’s going to be hugely the greatest public good and least change the backyard’s landscap- crown mouldings, baseboards, new doors or mantels? We can help there, too! expensive, and “the surrounding private injury” and initiated emi- ing, but leaving it in place could Paul Kephart Master Craftsman properties will be subject to a se- nent domain proceedings. be problematic if the root system 925.827.1093 www.TheCabinetMd.com vere risk of flooding” if the proj- Seanna Allen, one of the own- were to be weakened during the ect is not completed, according to ers of the Glorietta Court property drainage system work. the reports. facing eminent domain proceed- A volunteer for community The easements will enable the ings, disagrees with the City’s projects, Allen affirmed, “We workers to get in and do what statement that its personnel have love our community. We love our they need to do in 2012 before a been negotiating with the Allens neighbors,” and said that she and section of the culvert fails com- for a year. her husband look forward to pletely – and during the only time “We’re not trying to stop the working with the City. the weather will be suitable for project. We just want time to get “All of us still hope we’ll still the work – from June to October. our appraisals done,” said Allen be able to work this out,” said Staff anticipate that the project as she explained that she and her Glazer. Staff will continue their CARPET CLEANING can be completed in three months husband have been waiting on a efforts to negotiate with the prop- LAMORINDA'S FAVORITE FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS or less and “should only involve report from an independent sur- erty owners while the eminent do- FOR OVER 36 YEARS minor inconvenience for property veyor who only just completed main action moves forward in the owners.” The City has also work on January 6. hope that further legal action can (925) 283-8744 WINTER SPECIAL “committed to restoring the sur- In addition to the surveyor’s be avoided. www.siggyscarpetcleaning.com I5% OFF 3408 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Lafayette How Many Candles on Your Cake?

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P040036 02/04 State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company (Not in NJ), Bloomington, IL Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B1 Wings on the Grounds Former St. Mary’s Naval Cadet remembers the drills By Cathy Dausman The NEW Saint Mary’s College Museum of Art presents: The Veil: Visible and Invisible Spaces Feb. 12 - Mar. 25

T.B. “Teeb” Thomas and wife Rudi at the St. Mary’s College Navy Memorial bench honoring Preflight school cadets. Photo Andy Scheck In a quiet grove behind St. Mary’s football field is a statue dedicated to Our Lady of the Oaks. Its inscription reads in part: “in honor of the 1427 [St. Mary’s College] men…who answered their country’s call…in World War II.” Several hundred yards away, alongside the Brother Cornelius Art Center, the “Navy Bench” invites pedestrians to pause and rest: “Reflect upon those young men who passed through St. Mary’s Navy Preflight School during World War II.” What follows is one man’s story.

Thomas became a member of the it.” Thomas earned his wings at Anita Kunz Girls Will Be Girls 1st Platoon, 47th Battalion. He Corpus Christi, Texas, after ad- said the campus held “a few [re- vanced flight training in a bi-wing Curator talk, book-signing & reception ligious] brothers, no civilians, and Boeing Stearman 75 and an SBD it was all male.” Underclassmen Dauntless dive bomber. Ensign Sun., Feb. 12, 2 p.m. bunked in temporary housing, Thomas was then transferred to while upperclassmen occupied the Naval Air Station in Deland, More exhibits on view in Keith, Armistead and dorms still in use today. Cadets Florida where he met his future Studio Galleries were confined to the campus dur- wife, who was then a Navy For information visit the museum website at ing their first six weeks. There WAVE. Thomas was discharged stmarys-ca.edu/museum or call 925.631.4379. were “no cameras, no weddings in December, 1945 and married in Museum Hours: Wednesdays – Sundays, 11 AM – 4:30 PM and no marriages.” Staying single Monterey on Valentine’s Day, Admission: $5 adults; K – 12 graders and members free didn’t bother most cadets, says 1946. Thomas; they were still young. ... continued on page B8 Training and discipline were the program watchwords. The .B. “Teeb” Thomas of workload combined academics TOrinda has long loved to with physical training, or PT. fly. But before he got off the Cadets studied meteorology, as- ground, he trained as a cadet in tronomy, and math, and played the US Naval Preflight School at football, baseball, basketball and St. Mary’s College. soccer. They swam, ran track, Thomas was born and raised boxed and wrestled. Military in South Dakota, and moved to training included practicing water Salinas, California his senior year escapes from a mock plane cock- of high school. He signed up as a pit, recognizing and estimating V-5 recruit to take the Navy’s numbers of friendly and enemy basic flight training program in aircraft, and pistol and rifle prac- January, 1943 and graduated high tice. Thomas recalls that he and school at age 17 in February. his fellow cadets “did a lot of After a short stint at a Salinas jun- drilling” and studied until 10:00 ior college, Thomas was sent to p.m. Once they hiked from the flight prep school in San Luis campus to the top of Mt. Diablo Obispo. Next stop: St. Mary’s in survival gear carrying a back- College. pack that held “too much.” Mike Rose proudly announces When Thomas arrived in In June of 1944, with the war March 1944, the sleepy campus turning in favor of the Allied the opening of our with its pre-war enrollment of forces, officials decided to “wash barely 300 was gearing up into a out” (release) half the V-5 class. boomtown of 2,000 khaki-clad Cadets called it “the purge.” Lafayette Location…!!! Navy and Marine personnel. “Luckily,” says Thomas, “I made Mike’s Auto Body Rossmoor, right on the golf course 3430 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Views from every window! Level-in end unit Yosemite model, featuring a remodeled kitchen, (former Butler-Conti Dodge location) inside laundry, crown molding, plantation shutters. Attractively Lafayette CA 94549 priced at $239,000 (925) 283-5600 [email protected]

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Taking care of all your dental needs for you and your Orinda Village Seniors Tackle family. Emphasizing cosmetic dentistry with implants, and Invisalign. Nitrous oxide is available. Emergency Preparedness Consultations are complementary. Dentistry with Excellence. Not without challenges for those who speak English as a second language By Cathy Dausman Robert Lipp and Fred Lothrop had hoped to locate volunteer interpreters to translate the oral portion of the CAN THIS THING GO class for their Chinese and Persian students. They had no luck. After contacting the Federal Emergency FASTER? Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. live your life to the Geological Survey (USGS) and state fullest at every stage of California resource sites the in- structors managed to obtain a written Spanish and Chinese di- alect version of Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country (http://pubs.usgs.gov/gip/2005/15/ ; also available in Vietnamese and Ko- rean). That still left Kunzman with Josephine Cao takes her turn Photo Cathy Dausman only a partial, hand-written Farsi n emergency preparedness tures entirely or even very little,” she translation and no Russian transla- Aclass in Orinda is nothing un- said. And a language barrier is just tion at all. Kunzman says the very usual. But imagine trying to teach one challenge the group faced. Some sources she asked for help asked basic fire or medical training to senior can’t lift heavy objects or move very her to send them any translations citizens when their native language is quickly due to advanced age. As one she located. a Russian or Chinese dialect, Spanish senior commented, they “can’t do Still, the seniors persisted, sitting or Farsi. That is the challenge Re- things young, athletic CERTs can do, politely through the lecture portion of becca Kunzman faced recently. Kun- but they can do some things…” their emergency training. Then it was Post Acute Care zman is a Lamorinda Community Maryam Mojaver has lived at outside to practice using fire extin- & Rehabilitation Emergency Response Team (CERT) Orinda Village for 18 months. Her na- guishers. Some found the extinguish- instructor whose newest class at tive language is Farsi, but Mojaver ers too heavy to lift, but those who did 348 Rheem Boulevard Orinda Senior Village has 18 partici- also needs a hearing aid. The advice pulled the pin, squeezed the handle Moraga, CA 94556 pants, many of whom understand she gave to those teaching the classes and extinguished the practice fire in ph 925-376-5995 only limited English. was: “speak slowly and loud.” seconds, beaming from ear to ear. marquiscompanies.com “All the students read English but Kunzman and fellow instructors They found that a smile translates eas- about half do not understand the lec- Duncan Seibert, Gordon Nathan, ily into any language. 14th Annual CAIFF February 10th - 16th CALIFORNIA INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL 2012 Feature Films, Short Films and Documentaries from around the World at your Lamorinda Theatres!

Special Events, Q&A’s and Celebrity appearances: Buy Tickets at www.CAIFF.org or at the Rheem and Orinda ticket offices Opening Night Meet Jon Gries for Q&A 2012 Slate Awards Closing Night Reception and Movie: Special Screening VIP Reception and Movie: Meet Margaret O’Brien FRIDAY, FEBRUARY10TH 5:30PM Five Time Champion SATURDAY, FEBRUARY11TH 6:00PM Reception and Movie: Opening Night Movie FRIDAY, FEBRUARY10TH 9:30PM The 14th Annual California Independent Film Festival THURSDAY, FEBRUARY16TH 5:30PM Monsieur Lazhar While the young scientist, Julius, steadfastly researches will be giving 36 Slate Award Nominations in 12 2012 Oscar Nominee the asexual reproduction of worms, his natural curiosity different filmmaker categories to Actors, Directors and Meet Me in St. Louis leads him to discover some inconvenient truths about Films. Hosted by Jan Wahl. Best Foreign Language Film with Margaret O’Brien those around him. He witnesses his mother's infidelity The well-off Smith family has four beautiful daughters. This is the story of an Algerian immigrant substitute Special Screening with Burt Young and suspects his grandfather for the same, all while he Rocky Seventeen-year-old Esther has fallen in love with teacher who brings emotional stability to a Montreal believes he is losing his best friend Shiley to a rival In 1976, Rocky Balboa became a champ in the hearts of John, who has just moved in next door. He however, middle school that has been shaken by the tragic named Chase. millions of moviegoers across the globe. barely notices her at first. The family is shocked when death of their well-liked teacher. It is also an Mr. Smith reveals that he has been transferred to a nice exploration of how adults speak to children about 2012 Maverick Award Honoree Jon Gries will be honored at the 2012 Lifetime Achivement Award position in New York, which means that the family has issues they’d rather not confront themselves. to leave St. Louis and the 1903 St. Louis Fair. Monsieur Lazhar, nominated in this year’s 84th Oscar Five Time Champion screening on Feb. 10th Tribute to Burt Young Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film, and As seen in: Real Genius, 2012 Diamond Award Honoree The Opening Night Ceremony will be held at the Rheem Running Scared, Get Margaret O'Brien will be honored at Theatre, and will be hosted by NBC Bay Area News Shorty, Jackpot, The the closing night Movie weekend anchor, Ms Diane Dwyer. Monsieur Lazhar will Astronaut Farmer, The Pretender for Four also screen at the Orinda Theatre on Feb 14th, 2012. Seasons, Pickin’ & Grinnin.

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Date Location Films and Events Schedule* * subject to change please check our web site www.caiff.org Thanks to 5:30PM 7:00PM (94 min) 9:30PM (91 min) Friday, Rheem Theatre - th Main Theatre Opening Night Reception Opening Night Film Five Time Champion our Sponsors February 10 with Dianne Dwyer and (350 seats) food from fine Restaurants Monsieur Lazhar Maverick Award presentation to Jon Gries 10:00AM-Noon 12:30PM-2:15PM 2:30PM - 4:30PM 6:00PM - 7:00PM 7:00PM - 10:30PM 10:30PM - 1:00AM 5 Year Saturday, Rheem Theatre - Anniversary Children's Program A Children's Program B 2012 Slate Awards February 11th Main Theatre Pearls of the Far East 2012 Slate Awards Oliver' Treasure (2 min) Add & Subtract (4 min) & & Rocky with Burt Young Festival Social Independent, locally owned and operated! (350 seats) (103 min) VIP Reception & Miss Minoes (92 min) Somebody's Hero (81 min) hosted by Jan Wahl Rheem Theatre - 10:00AM-Noon 12:30PM - 2:30PM 3:00PM - 4:30PM 4:30PM - 5:30PM Theatre 3 Comedy Shorts Program Drama Shorts Program Last First Comic (91 min) Fixation (40 min) (102 seats) (98 min) (99min) Special Event 10:00AM - 12:30PM 1:00PM - 2:00PM 3:00PM - 5:30PM Rheem Theatre - Features Acting Seminar Filmmaker's Panel Acting Seminar Theatre 2 Documentaries Joie Landeaux Filmmaking 101 Joie Landeaux Shorts Seminars Sunday, Rheem Theatre - 11:00AM - 1:00PM 1:30PM - 3:30PM 4:00PM - 6:00PM 6:30PM - 8:30PM th Main Theatre February 12 Iron Filmmaker Jucy (90 min) Tilt (97 min) Hermano (97 min) (350 seats) Rheem Theatre - 11:00AM - 1:00PM 1:30PM - 3:30PM 3:45PM - 5:00PM 5:15PM - 6:30PM 6:45PM - 8:45PM Theatre 3 Umoja (32 min) & Someday Melissa The Power of Two ASSOCIATES Sapporo Showcase Century of Light (47 min) REAL ESTATE (102 seats) Mary and Bill (49 min) (58 min) (98 min)

Monday, Orinda Theatre - 1:00PM - 3:00PM 4:00PM - 6:00PM 6:30PM - 8:30PM Shorts February 13th Theatre 2 Umoja (32 min) & Pearls of the Far East Comedy Shorts Program (98 min) Tilt (97 min) (175 seats) The Stand-In (14 min) Mary and Bill (49 min) (103 min) Applebox (29 min) Rheem Theatre - 1:00PM - 3:00PM 4:00PM - 6:00PM 6:30PM - 7:15PM 7:30PM - 8:45PM Bathing & the Single Girl (10 min) Theatre 3 Someday Melissa Bread & Kisses (13 min) Century of Light (47 min) Sapporo Showcase Fixation (40 min) Direk Ask (11 min) (102 seats) (58 min) Nullarbor (11 min) Tuesday, The Five Stages of Grief (10 min) Rheem Theatre - 1:00PM - 3:00PM 4:00PM - 6:00PM 6:30PM - 8:30PM Drama Shorts Program (99 min) February 14th Main Theatre Drama Shorts Program The Power of Two Comedy Shorts Program Bandito (8 min) (350 seats) (74 min) (98 min) (98 min) Demon’s Delemma (14 min) Franklin (3 min) Orinda Theatre - 1:00PM - 3:00PM 4:00PM - 6:00PM 6:30PM - 8:30PM Gu Yeo-Rum-Eui Ba-Da (22 min) Theatre 2 Drama Shorts Program Le Maillot de Cristiano (17 min) Hermano (97 min) Monsieur Lazhar (94 min) (175 seats) (99 min) Road Rage (6 min) The Sea Is All I Know (29 min) Wednesday, Orinda Theatre - 1:00PM - 3:00PM 4:00PM - 6:00PM 6:30PM - 8:30PM Sapporo Showcase 663114 (8 min) th Theatre 2 Comedy Shorts Program Little Women with February 15 Last First Comic (91 min) Crystallized (30 min) (175 seats) (98 min) Margaret O'Brien (122 min) Eskimo Kiss (10 min) Sugar (8 min) Thursday, Rheem Theatre - 1:00PM - 3:00PM 4:00PM - 6:00PM 5:30PM - 8:30PM Thank You World (message from Japan) (3 min) February 16th Main Theatre Best Documentary Best Short Films Closing Night Reception followed by movie The Legend of Beaver Dam (12 min) (350 seats) 2012 Winner 2012 Winners Meet Me in St. Louis with Margaret O'Brien (113 min) The Mechanism of Spring (4 min) go to www.CAIFF.org for details, tickets and updates Page: B4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 Weight Loss • Cholesterol Reduction Happy & Healthy 2012! Gluten and Allergy Diagnostics 283-WELL (9355) 251 Lafayette Circle #240 Dr. Theresa Lafayette

We are pleased to make space available whenever possible for some of Lamorinda’s dedicated community service organizations to submit news and information about their activities. Submissions can be sent to Community Service [email protected] with the subject header In Service to the Community. Lamorinda NCL Celebrates with Acalanes NCL Adopts a Family Service Submitted by Carrie Dern Submitted by Mary Caprio

Photo provided

n December, members from the Lamorinda NCL chapter president Mary Torchio com- Photo provided Ichapter of National Charity League (NCL) mented on the evening’s impact, "We dedicated he Class of 2014 of the National Charity gins in 7th grade and continues through the gathered together at the Lafayette Library & our entire November meeting to working to- TLeague Acalanes Area Chapter partici- senior year, culminating in celebrations at the Learning Center with the hope of brightening gether and getting as much done as we could to pated in an Adopt- A-Family through the Child Claremont Resort and Hotel in the spring. the holidays of those less fortunate. Each year help those in need at the Monument Crisis Cen- Abuse Council of Contra Costa County. The The girls are honored for their many hours of at this time, the Lamorinda NCL chapter works ter - one of our many philanthropy partners. I girls applied their donated funds to shop to- philanthropic work volunteering at The just a little bit harder to help those in need and was so pleased that this year we were able to gether as a class to purchase and wrap a long list American Cancer Society, California Shake- this year was no different. Stockings were give the center an abundance of much needed of much needed gifts for the families. speare, Juvenile Diabetes, Smiley Dog and stuffed with treats and necessities and warm support thanks to the help of our members." National Charity League, Inc. is a Special Olympics among others. blankets were made for delivery to the Monu- NCL is a volunteer organization composed mother-daughter non-profit organization For membership information, please visit ment Crisis Center in Concord. of mothers and daughters who join together in dedicated to serving local communities. Na- www.nationalcharityleague.org. These volun- When the evening was over, hundreds of community involvement. The Lamorinda chap- tionally, there are over 168 chapters commit- teer activities initiate a lifelong commitment to stockings had been filled and warm blankets had ter has a membership of 260 mothers and daugh- ted to fostering the mother-daughter community service and deepen the bond be- been assembled, all to be donated to the Crisis ters, in grades 7 through 12, all of whom actively relationship through philanthropic, leader- tween mother and daughter through these Center’s many patrons in need. Lamorinda participate in local philanthropic programs. ship and cultural activities. Participation be- shared activities. Beau/Derek on the California Independent Film Festival erek's two must see films at the upcoming D14th California Independent Film Festival: It will be a very momentous occasion and his- tory in the making as our Opening Night movie, Monsieur Lazhar, is nominated for the 2012 Oscar Best Foreign Language Film. It will be the first time that Lamorinda area will be able to screen a film that is short listed by the Academy before its theatrical release and before the Oscars on Feb 26th, 2012. Monsieur Lazhar is screening on Feb 10, 2012 at the Rheem and Feb 14, 2012 at the Orinda Theatre. My other choice is Miss Monoes. It is about children learning lifetime habits at a very young age. I encourage all parents to take their children to see this film and give them a gift of a lifetime by educating them on international cinema and the joys of being in film festivals. This fun-filled family film from Holland will be a treat for all ages. It is screening on Feb 11 at the Rheem, when CAIFF will have a Family Day event. Beau's thoughts on the 14th Annual CAIFF: I do not have one favorite film in our upcoming festival. The fibers of our rich fourteen-year his- tory are interwoven in the lineup of our films this year. Everything is a must-see. Come and enjoy the filmic pursuits of our very talented filmmakers from around the globe (February 10-16, 2012). Why is Home Care Assistance the leading choice (Derek Zemrak is a filmmaker and the president of the California Independent Film Festival As- of older adults in the Tri Valley/Lamorinda community? sociation (CAIFFA); Beau Behan is the CAIFFA )! "###$  )#76B286#)#!77&#!5#%'9#52$B285!&2'!#$520285#A7#16'9#5267#5 program director and director of the Lamorinda )! "###$  '67&#)#"#5'1&285"B"B@##()'9#'1!5# Theatres.) )! "###$  3529'"#6&'%&48)'7B 21"#"1"'1685#"!5#%'9#56@&25# #A3#5'#1!#"'1!5#$252)"#5"8)76 )! "###$  &#)36@'7&0#)63#5621)!5#751632577'211"025# )! "###$  &6 ##17&#23&2'!#'17&#B$5#$25&20#!5#6'1!#%% )! "###$  @527#7&# 22(6      1"   9') )#21$0C21!20&#B5#5#6285!#$257&#'1"8675B6@#))6$0')'#6

##7##$"##66#'67&#!)'#17!5#01%#5$2528519'))#* )1875##(2$$'!##&6 ##1@25('1%212)"#5"8)76'668#6$25025# please... 7&17#1B#561"63#!')'C#6'1&20#!5#)#6#!))#66#7216@#5 1B48#67'216B280B&9# 287&20#!5# ##!""! #%$$! $      ...thanks '''"! "###$ "!   ! (&* &*  Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B5

Tone your body and experience the Zumba fitness Recognized, phenomenon in this exciting class. Desi's Zumba style combines her love for teaching and her passion for dancing. Dynamic and inspirational, Desi Respected, motivates for the achievement of self-confidence in the fitness room and brings fun and variety to cardio workout. Desi has been an enthusiastic Zumba follower since 2006 and an instructor since 2008. Recommended 1460 Moraga Road Suite F, Moraga, Moraga Shopping Center, behind McCaulous www.starpilates.com 925-376-7500 Try a free Zumba class! Search MLS Instantly Like I Do at Alex Gailas, Orinda resident since 1984 www.AlexGailas.com California Indie Fest—a Feast Experience and Knowledge By Andrea A. Firth call Alex Gailas Broker, Owner, CRS, GRI, CFS 925-254-7600 43 Moraga Way Ste 203, Orinda Across from Orinda Theater

LeapFrog Plumbing Plumbing is the heart of the home. LeapFrog offers a whole­house checkup so you know all systems are “go.” Head Frog Mo Williams LeapFrog Loot The one­call plumber $89 off Opening night movie Monsiuer Lazhar Photo provided Gas, Water & Sewer Whole-house checkup* he upcoming California Inde- jumping pal, an all-women’s tribe in The Festival often showcases • Emergency service LeapFrog Loot Tpendent Film Festival will give Kenya, California’s single-speed cy- up-and-coming filmmakers. The filmgoers a smorgasbord of movie clists, and the tragic tale of young short selection Bandito was writ- • Repairs & installation $59 off Any plumbing repair options (a veritable feast) including woman’s battle with an eating disor- ten, directed and filmed by San • Video sewer inspection or installation* foreign language films, features, doc- der. Jose-based film student Ryan • umentaries, and shorts, along with a A little more local is the docu- Wood who is currently studying at Copper re­piping LeapFrog Loot chance to eat, drink, and party. The mentary film entitled Century of the Art Institute of California in • Preventive checkups $200 off festival will be screening movies at Light. Filmmaker Chris Leps tells the Sunnyvale. Like any good west- • Design & remodeling tankless/hybrid both the New Rheem Theatre in Mor- story of the longest burning light bulb. ern, the short has hairy-faced bad water heater • Tankless water heaters installation* +$300 aga and the Orinda Theatre from Feb- Housed in a fire station in Livermore guys, a gravely-voiced sheriff, a tax credit ruary 10th through the 16th. Here’s a the bulb has been lit (with a few beautiful cowgirl, and of course, a *1 coupon per service, exp. 2/28/12 taste of what attendees can see. minor interruptions) since it was first gun fight. Produced on a shoe- We Hop To It! And the winner is… installed in 1901, that’s 111 years and string budget, Wood’s cinematog- Monsiuer Lazhar, an Oscar nominee counting. “Things were built to last raphy is remarkable and covers a Family-owned and serving for Best Foreign Language Film, will back then,” says Leps who wrote, lot of land in Hollister where the Lamorinda since 1993 open the Festival on Friday, February produced, and directed the 42-minute seven-minute movie was shot. green solutions! 10 at 7:00 p.m. at the Rheem Theatre. film. A stuntman by day and film- Light on dialogue and heavy on The sensitive and humorous Cana- maker whenever he can make it hap- mood and scene, it’s a surprising dian film tells the story of an Algerian pen, Leps explores the innovation, tale. Don’t miss it. (925) immigrant who is hired to replace a technology and local people behind The opening weekend of the 377-6600 CA Lic well-liked teacher who died tragically. this remarkable bulb. Festival (February 10th and 11th) is 929641 www.LeapFrogPlumbing.com While the students in the Montreal Bite-Sized Portions—CAIFF’s the time to eat, drink, and play at the middle school heal under the new Shorts Rheem in Moraga. The Festival teacher’s tutelage, he deals with the Done well it does not take long to tell kicks off with a reception on Friday pain of his former life. a good story. The short film selections night starting at 5:30 p.m. with host Keeping it Real—CAIFF’s in the 14th annual California Film Dianne Dwyer, the weekend anchor Documentaries Festival are between four and thirty of NBC Bay Area news. The Satur- Screening throughout the six-day fes- minutes long, with most about a ten- day night social starts around 10:30 tival, the seven documentary films minute watch. The quick pics are an- p.m. after the screening of Rocky and tackle a range of subjects, both imated, funny and dramatic, with continues til… weighty and lighter fare, and tell the subject matter that ranges from the For all you need to know about stories of the last living burlesque excitement of spring to loss and re- the California Independent Film Fes- comic, twin’s triumphing over a ge- newal and what can happen when you tival, including the full schedule and netic disease, a ninety year-old triath- borrow a cup of sugar (see the short ticket information, go online to lete and her octogenarian high called Sugar to find out). caiff.org. Special Girls Night Out at the Library By Cathy Tyson is focused on eating well, self-care and getting in touch with what you want to accomplish in the New Year via nutrition and lifestyle advice. Dougherty is a certified Holistic Health Coach and is accredited by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. Her journey started with a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis – a chronic inflamma- tion of the large intestine – at age 20. After trying a number of prescriptions, she found altering her diet made all the difference. She started Jamie Living five years ago working with career women who were successful in business – but always managed to put themselves last. The What You Will Find in Our Schools: self-described small girl with big hair, big feet and a Primary Caregiving big mouth has a knack for telling it like it is. Her business has evolved to include personal consulta- At our schools, children stay with their primary tions, the “Fantastic Food Fix” – a day-long healthy caregiver for the duration of time at the school, food shopping and cooking extravaganza, cook- anywhere from 3-4 years. books, a blog, and a snappy website - Reggio Emilia-Inspired Work Jamieliving.com. Through observations, discussions, and reflection, Look for a cooking demonstration featuring teachers follow the emergent theories children smoothies and snacks, along with advice about get- have of their world. Jamie G. Dougherty comes to the LLLC on February 7. ting rid of emotional toxins and more at this first of Photo provided its kind event. For those of us whose pants are a little Lafayette Walnut Creek tight post-holiday feasting and feeling less than stel- Open Houses Open Houses orget the chardonnay and uncomfortable shoes. lar, this could be time very well spent. January 23rd January 19th F“It’s all about delicious ways to detox your mind Get inspired, Tuesday February 7, 2012 from February 13th February 23rd and body – this will be a night of food, fun and dig- 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Community Hall of the at 6:30 p.m. at 6:30 p.m. ging deep,” said Jamie Dougherty, Certified Health Lafayette Library and Learning Center, $5 per per- and Lifestyle Coach talking about her upcoming son, payable at the door. The first twenty women to ADULTS ONLY, PLEASE! event, “Girls Night Delicious Detox” at the Lafayette RSVP on the Whole Foods Facebook page will get a 984 Moraga Rd. 55 Eckley Lane Library and Learning Center. She explains that the Detox goodie bag and everyone who registers will hour-long program, co-sponsored by Whole Foods, be entered to win a Detox gift basket. (925) 284-4321 (925) 934-1507 Page: B6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 Steinway and Sound Are you composting yet? Program Resonates with Audience By Cathy Dausman s2EDUCED#OST Compost Bins s&REE-ONTHLY7ORKSHOPS s)NSTRUCTIONAL"ROCHURES and DVD Video sWWWFACEBOOKCOM###37! s!LLIED7ASTE"ILL2EDUCTION

Holmes and Levitt in a musical duet Photo Cathy Dausman ustin Levitt exploded a Steinway acoustics. Holmes began by shaking Jgrand piano and the audience, all a 20-foot long slinky to demonstrate 130 of them, ate it up. Then Brian how sound waves form. Each wave Holmes assembled a working trumpet travelled out, reached the end of the from a garden hose and plastic funnel. line and returned, inverted. Next The two were featured speakers Jan- Holmes enthusiastically assembled a uary 24 at a Lafayette Library and trumpet, piece by piece, starting with Learning Center (LLLC) Foundation a thin metal tube four and a half feet Science Café. long. He added a mouthpiece, a bell, The event, The Science of Stein- and presto! --- a modern day trumpet For more information, visit www.wastediversion.org way and Sound, was a sold-out suc- was born. Home Composting Hotline: (925) 906-1801, ext. 306 cess. Of course Levitt didn’t literally The program included solo and explode a grand piano—he just de- duet piano performances by Sue tailed how some of its 12,000 parts Hammond, David Glass and Levitt, are assembled. The Steinway on dis- and a piano and French Horn duet play was the library’s own model B. with Holmes on the horn. The pro- Its seven foot frame is built up from gram, scheduled to last an hour, ran – your cutting edge resource for cutting waste. 16 laminations of hard rock maple 30 minutes over, but the audience sat (each layer 3/16” thick) that are bent enraptured. Foundation Executive Di- continuously by hand. When com- rector Kathy Merchant was most plete, the downward pressure pulling pleased: "Little did we know when jtÜx Wxá|zÇá the 240-some strings to pitch amounts our trustee (Margaret Race) broached to the weight of a gorilla (or another the idea of converting the Community Y|Çx ]xãxÄÜç á|Çvx DLJJ grand piano), standing on the sound- Hall to a "science" cafe", we would 3645 Mt. Diablo Blvd., board. Levitt, store manager for be discussing everything from the sci- Lafayette Sherman Clay in Walnut Creek, ence of art conservation to building between Trader Joes & the Post Office likened the musical sound which trav- Hoover Dam.” 283-2988 els along the wood grain to cars on a Science Café is a regularly sched- New Location www.waredesigns.com highway. Essentially, the music goes uled presentation of the LLLC Foun- 50% off ‘round and round and comes out here, dation. Its next program, February Watch Battery and that would be the perfect intro for 28th at 7 p.m., honors the 75th an- Now $5, Reg $10 Brian Holmes and his portion of the niversary of the Golden Gate Bridge. Tuesday-Saturday 10-6 1 watch battery per person. Exp. 2/29/12. Usually installed while you wait. W/coupon. Restrictions apply. presentation. Science Café is held in the library’s Holmes is a guest lecturer, musi- Community Hall. Cost is $5 per per- cian (brass), composer and Professor son; reservations can be made at re- of Physics at San Jose State Univer- [email protected] or call (925) sity whose interests in science and 283-6513, ext. 102, with questions. FEATURED ON music merge in the science of musical AMERICA’S MONEY CLASS with SUZE ORMAN THE OPRAH WINFREY NETWORK

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From left, front: Kathy Merchant, Marinda Wu; back: Brian Holmes, Sue Hammond, David Glass and Justin Levitt Photo Cathy Dausman Orinda Youth Ink 2012 Submitted by Molly Wilson he Orinda Junior Women’s $250 for 1st place, TClub (Orinda Juniors) is $125 for 2nd place, pleased to announce details for Youth $75 for 3rd place We Buy Yourplatinump Gold, Silver, Ink 2012, the annual creative writing 10 honorable mentions who receive contest open to all sixth-, seventh- and gift certificates from a local eighth-grade students who live or at- book store Platinum & Diamonds tend school in Orinda. The Youth Ink A panel of several local profes- gold 2012 theme, “There is a Knock at the sional writers, including reporters and t
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ages highly personal writing and Youth Ink 2012 submissions and lends well to open style choice. choose winners. The judges’ names silver Organizers say the first rule is you will be shared when the winners are diamondsdi d can write about anything you like: announced at an awards ceremony at BRING IN THIS COUPON FOR Real or imaginary. There is no limit the Orinda Public Library on Thurs- to your imagination. Whatever you day, April 26, 2012, at 6:00 p.m. The $ EXTRA write about, just remember to have public is welcome to attend. fun! Youth Ink 2012 submissions will 50 CASH “We can’t wait to see how be accepted on an ongoing basis but Orinda’s talented youth writers will must be hand-delivered to a desig- 8IFO
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KFXFMSZ approach this year’s intriguing nated school representative or post- *Promotional offer expires 3/31/2012. Gold coins and bars are excluded from this promotion. Offer cannot be used in combination with any other offers. LM theme,” said Cathy Opdycke, presi- marked by Feb. 10, 2012 and mailed dent of Orinda Juniors. to Orinda Junior Women’s Club, Post Find out what YOUR Gold is worth! CALL US FOR AN APPOINTMENT. Generous co-sponsors of Youth Office Box 40, Orinda, CA 94563 in Ink 2012, including The Orinda As- order to be considered for an award. (925) LAFAYETTE | 962-7001 | www.GoldFellow.com sociation and The Orinda Community Go to www.orindajuniors.org for sub- 3685 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Ste 250 Foundation, have made it possible to mission forms and more information. Licensed Secondhand Dealers. License Numbers: 56081050, 56071010, 19424550, 19424549, 30151294, 19424649 provide impressive prizes: Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B7

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Sticky Fingers: Humor from Quebec “We Care for Your Car” By Sophie Braccini SPECIALS SPECIALS SPECIALS middle of our winter; a well done and efficient comedy that rejoices now in MORAGA & LAFAYETTE the audience and speaks to its intel- ligence. Certified The movie is continuously Dealer-Trained happy and up-beat. The tone is Technicians 1410 Moraga Rd., Moraga easy going, with subtlety and depth. BMW & 925-631-1100 It does not try to revolutionize the Mercedes art of movie making, but it is di- A-1 Auto rected with a lot of maturity by 3357 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette Scott who gives it an excellent rhythm. 925-283-9774 Another element that makes TUNE-UP SPECIAL Incl. FREE 8 point this movie a success is the solid OIL CHANGE Safety Inspection $ 99 group of actors selected by Scott. 4 Cylinder 49 +Tax & $3.50-$4.50 Waste $ 95 Disposal Fee MOST CARS “I worked hard on the casting,” he Incl. Spark Plugs. Check Ignition Parts 24 said to a Quebecois publication, “I (Double Platinum & Coil System Extra) Exp. 2/29/12 Up to 5 Qts. Unocal Supper Synthetic Blend Motor Oil ENGINE LIGHT SPECIAL Full Size Trucks. Some SUV’s, 4x4’s & All New Cars wanted them to be quite different With Cartridge Filter Will Be $34.95 & Up. from each other, but still to create a $ Inspection Only & Appointment Recommended FREE TIRE EVALUATION Ask For Rotation OBD 2= 35 Most Cars Present Coupon Prior To Service Exp. 2/29/12 sense of unity.” All the chosen ac- Repair Extra Most Cars Most Cars Present Coupon Prior To Service. Not Valid With Other Offers. tors are experienced and quickly Tax not included. Exp. 2/29/12 BRAKE JOB embody their characters, making TIMING BELT SPECIAL 95 Per Axle them believable, colorful and lik- $ + Parts We do 30, $ Single Cam EXCLUSIVE USA PREMIERE OFFICIAL SPONSORS able. 60 & 90K 299 Plus Parts 99 (4 cylinder, most cars) Turning Rotors, Trucks & 4-Wheel Drivers & “STICKY FINGERS” Starts February 3 It seems that Scott was inspired Manufacturers recommend changing your timing belt Hub Bearing Systems Extra Only at the Orinda Theatre both by Spike Lee’s Inside Man every 60.000 miles for your safety Most Cars Present Coupon Prior To Service. Not Valid With Other Offers. Most Cars Present Coupon Prior To Service. Not Valid With Other Offers. Tax not included. Exp. 2/29/12 DƵůƟƉůĞĂŝůLJ^ŚŽǁŝŶŐƐ / One Week Only! and Soderbergh’s Ocean’s Eleven, Tax not included. Exp. 2/29/12 ALIGNMENT SPECIAL dŽǀŝĞǁƚƌĂŝůĞƌ͗ŚƩƉ͗ͬͬ^ŚŽǁƟŵĞƐ͗ 1:30www.youtube.com, 4:00, 6:30 ÖÃ/watchDaily?v;=9RG 9:00dJ uÖÃ7ey,_ gFriday and Saturday only even if nothing daring comes to dis- TIRE REPAIR ON THE SPOT! turb this sound work of a movie. dŝĐŬĞƚƐĂŶĚŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƚŝŽŶĂƚǁǁǁ͘>&&͘ŽƌŐ 2 Wheel $6995 Žƌǁǁǁ͘ŽƌŝŶĚĂƚŚĞĂƚƌĞƐ͘ĐŽŵ͘ Additionally, it will take you on a $ 80 4 Tires 259 $ 95 &ƌĞĞWĂƌŬŝŶŐĂƚƚŚĞKƌŝŶĚĂdŚĞĂƚƌĞͬϱͲŵŝŶƵƚĞǁĂůŬĨƌŽŵZd Tax, Waste and Installation Extra Goodride/Other Tires 4 Wheel 79 very beautiful trip through Spain. 195/65/15h We’ll Install Your Tires Wheel Over 18” Extra (Most Cars) Don’t ask me why, but funny in 59 Minutes! 195/60/15h 205/65/15h Most Cars Present Coupon Prior To Service. Not Valid With Other Offers. he International Film Show- those who love movies that offer movies are always more enjoyable Exp. 2/29/12 Tax not included. Exp. 2/29/12 Tcase’s February selection is a the possibility of redemption to he- when discovered without knowing funny and solid movie from Que- roes. Here, five thieves from Que- too much of the story ahead of bec. Les Doigts Croches – Sticky bec will have to go through a time. Fingers – was the first movie writ- spiritual quest in order to get back Sticky Fingers will be shown at ten and directed by Ken Scott who the loot they stole a few years ear- the Orinda Theatre from Friday, is very well known in Canada as a lier. The humor comes from the February 3 through Thursday, Feb- comedian, scenario writer and now confirmed thieves’ efforts to be- ruary 9. Go to www.lfef.org/show- director. come honest. Their sunny and casetickets/ for times and ticket Sticky Fingers will appeal to funny journey is welcome in the information.

Consider This! Time + Passion=Choice? By Steven Zhou iven that we all have exactly 86,400 seconds in Whether you are interested in music, video, business, Ga day, how do we know where to invest our farming, or engineering, there is no single right answer. hours? Choose a field that grabs you, then go for it. For teenagers, making choices and focusing is the Miramonte senior Olivia Wung runs because it re- sum total of our 1440 minutes. Whether you are a mid- lieves stress, boosts her energy, and makes her happier. dle schooler choosing classes, a high school senior ap- Running may not be a career move, but it keeps her plying to colleges or a university sophomore declaring healthy while she thinks about her future. As for me, I your major, prioritizing time is key. am immensely attracted to rather mundane office duties In a recent episode of our Moraga based interna- because I'm task-oriented in my quest to find ways to tional teen radio show, Express Yourself!, we inter- complete a job in the quickest and most effective man- viewed a former Campolindo High School student who ner. Although I am co-host of Express Yourself!, I spend knew exactly how he wanted to spend his time. Michael the majority of my time in administrative roles, which Chickering transferred to the Interlochen Arts Academy is the professional direction that attracts me. boarding school in Michigan to study video production. The next time you’re faced with a decision in Although Chickering had studied video at Campolindo, choosing a class, an extracurricular activity, or a job, he wanted to immerse himself in the craft without Lam- don’t freak out about whether or not it’s the right one. orinda distractions. He is pursuing his passion while As long as you have an interest in the topic and the ded- learning from accomplished stars such as the special ef- ication to put in the time, the formula of time plus pas- fects producer of the Star Wars films. sion will land you at the next level, which could become Michael’s a normal teenager like us but the differ- your career choice. ence is that he recognized his gifts early and took the necessary steps to chase his dreams. He’s not alone; many students are specializing. Co-chair of the Orinda Teen Advisory Council, Alex Glazer, shared her expe- rience on air about attending a full immersion product Want to Host your own development camp where she gained marketing skills that will enhance her communications and business ca- Radio Program? reer goals. Seventeen-year-old Brian Lee volunteers Individual coaching & group classes with TV & Radio with San Francisco Smiles, a charity that supports other Veteran Host/Producer, Cynthia Brian. charities. He is inspired by non-profits helping one an- From concept to on-air for ages 13 and up. other. Courtney Tran, the voice on our theme song, in- vests her extra hours creating and recording a piano series for a local organization as she works at becoming Steven Zhou on the air a music producer. Understandably, the hardest part for us teens is de- Steven Zhou, a senior at Miramonte High School, is the ciding where to dedicate our efforts. When we asked administrator and co-host of the international teen experts on our radio program such as author Brooks Ol- radio program, Express Yourself! brys, whose book Blue Ocean Bob inspires children to find a purpose, and education consultant Donna Zilkha, Teen Scene is YOUR voice. If you have something who helps incoming college students make tough deci- to say or have writing skills and want to be part of 925-377-STAR or email sions about what to study, the answer was clear: it didn’t our Teen Scene team, email our Teen Coach, Cynthia matter as long as you steer towards your strengths. Brian, [email protected]. [email protected] www.StarStyleRadio.com (click on Coaching/Classes) The opinions expressed in Teen Scene are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lamorinda Weekly. Be the STAR of your industry! Page: B8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 Wings on the Grounds ... continued from page B1 Thomas attended U.C. Berkeley on the G.I. Bill, and became an industrial engineer. He and wife Rudi settled in Orinda in 1949 be- cause Thomas knew and liked the area from his time at St. Mary’s. They put four sons through local schools. Thomas says he owned and flew private planes, including a Piper super cub and a Cessna 172, into his 80’s. Although he fi- nally gave up the pilot’s seat, he still flies --as a passenger --with his pilot son. He donated his flight suit to the Alameda Naval Air Mu- seum. Thomas helped organize and at- tended a 1995 reunion for preflight school cadets, held at St. Mary’s Col- lege. The cadre of former cadets is aging; many have filed their final flight plan. Those who remain are close to their 90th birthdays. But in spite of that, and the urgency of a na- tion then at war, Thomas says his St. Mary’s College days were “one of Teeb Thomas, on the left in the middle row, and his classmates. Photo provided the better times in my life.” From Private College to Government Venue: St. Mary’s Becomes a 1940’s Wartime Aviation School Please join us for a celebration of swingin’ hits performed by The Fondettes.

Saturday, February 18th The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor left the U.S. military 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. short of fighter pilots. In response, the Navy set up pre- flight training schools across the country. One of those was Cocktail hour featuring wine, cheese and hors d'oeuvres from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. at St. Mary’s College. The Fondettes will perform from 7:00 to 7:45 p.m. The Navy ran its school from 1942 to 1946. A future U.S. President (Gerald Ford) coached football on The Fondettes are a vocal trio with rich three part harmony and jazzy tone quality. campus in 1945. By singing almost solely Andrews Sisters' covers, they don't try to reinvent 1427 men with ties to St. Mary’s College served in the mili- the music, but rather restore and carry on the classic music of the 1940's. tary during WW II; 21 are known to have died in uniform. Space is limited. RSVP required Candice Moses 925-377-7900 On February 27, 1942 a telegram was sent to college Presi- or [email protected]. dent Brother Austin: “St. Mary’s College has been selected by the Navy Depart- ment as one of the four locations [across the U.S.] for pre- Áegis of Moraga flight training. Your patriotic cooperation in this vital 950 Country Club Dr. program is appreciated.” Signed: Frank Knox, Secretary of Moraga, CA 94556 the Navy (925) 377-7900 To house and feed its 2,000 cadets, the Navy: AegisofMoraga.com • Built temporary barracks, a field house (with an indoor RCFE #075601424 swimming pool) and a rifle range. • Leveled out the land from the Chapel to St. Mary’s Road to make athletic fields, some of which are still in use today. • Required East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) to construct a water pipeline to the campus: “to provide adequate water supply, both for drinking purposes and for fire protection.” (Adm. L.E. Denfield, May 12, 1942). The hills surrounding St. Mary’s Moraga campus made a marvelous natural amphitheater, recalls former Marine Corps pilot Chuck Temple of Florence, Oregon. “The bugler would play taps from the [chapel] tower, once slowly, then he’d ‘jazz it up’, and it would echo all around the hills!” C. Dausman

Sources: Pipe Dream Fulfilled: How the Navy helped bring water to St. Mary’s John Grennan, author The History of U.S. Navy Pre-Flight School, St. Mary’s California, U.S. Fall 2012: offering new 6th grade class and Navy, 1946 reinvigorated middle school program 30TH ANNIVERSARY CRAB FEED SATURDAY, MARCH 3RD 6PM TO 9PM AT THE ORINDA MASONIC HALL, 9 ALTARINDA RD, ORINDA Reach 60,000+ CALL FOR TICKET INFORMATION 19 Altarinda Rd., Orinda • 925.254.7553 • www.OrindaAcademy.org in Lamorinda College Prep for Gr. 6-12 Advertise in Lamorinda Weekly Submit stories to Call 925-377-0977 today [email protected] Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B9

CASH & INCENTIVES UP TO $1,175 WHEN YOU UPGRADE FURNACE MAINTENANCE TO A HIGH EFFICIENCY HEATING & COOLING SYSTEM Call for Details Exp 2/29/12. It’s BY Feb 29th, 2012. GOOD! ACS Air Conditioning Systems Since 1969 5151-C Port Chicago Hwy., Concord, CA 94520 License# 632329 (925) 676-2103 • www.ACSystemsInc.com Save Energy and Save Money Transitional Kindergarten on Hold By Andrea A. Firth ublic school districts across dents must turn five by November in the fall. planned to collect the names of stu- Guinn, the Director of Educational PLamorinda have placed their 1st to be eligible for kindergarten. Dr. Fred Brill, Superintendent dents who age-qualify and are in- Services and Instructional Technol- plans for transitional kindergarten A change lauded by educators. of the Lafayette School District, terested in attending transitional ogy for the Moraga School Dis- on hold following the release of The Act also includes a provi- says he is not 100% sure what the kindergarten during their registra- trict, says the district will Governor Jerry Brown’s prelimi- sion for grade schools to provide final status of transitional kinder- tion in late January, but for now the “pre-register” children for transi- nary budget, which proposes to cut kindergarteners whose birthdays garten is for the next school year. program is on hold. tional kindergarten at the district’s funding for the program. fall in September, October, and Communication about the program According to the Orinda Union upcoming February registration The 2010 Kindergarten Readi- November with the option to attend from different education resources School District website, registra- should the program’s status ness Act pushes the entry age for “transitional kindergarten.” This has been vague and conflicting, tion and planning for transitional change. Moraga School District kindergarten, currently age five by new grade level would give these says Brill. “It’s extraordinarily kindergarten will not take place will also hold a kindergarten infor- December 2nd, back requiring youngest students an extra kinder- frustrating, because I want to keep until state funding for the program mational meeting on February 2nd children to turn five by September garten year. And, the grade school parents informed, especially the is reinstated. starting at 7:00 p.m. in the Joaquin 1st. The new age requirements will districts in Lafayette, Moraga, parents with incoming student who The Moraga School District, Moraga Middle School Auditorium be phased in over three years. For and Orinda had plans to offer have November birthdays,” he likewise, will not offer the un-man- to further inform parents about the 2012-2013 school year, stu- transitional kindergarten starting says. The Lafayette School District dated program. However, Courtney these changes. 2012-2013 Kindergarten Registration THE APP RAP By Eric Pawlakos Lamorinda’s public elementary schools will soon be registering next fall’s Kindergarteners. To be eligible for Kindergarten, a child must have been born on or before November 1, 2007. You should register your Kindergartener at the school he or she will attend in the Map My Run 2012-2013 school year. Developer: Map My Fitness Lafayette For: iPhones and Androids Registration was held at the Lafayette School District’s four elementary schools in January. For information on late registration, go to the district’s website at: www.lafsd.k12.ca.us ne of the great things about liv- you know what calories you have re- Oing in California is the weather. maining for your daily intake. Moraga With our mild climate we have the Map My Run also suggests pre- Families new to the Moraga School District are invited to attend a Kindergarten opportunity to spend ample time out- determined runs mapped by other Information meeting on February 2, 2012 at Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School side. With “excerising more” at the users. For instance in the Lamorinda Auditorium, 7:00-7:45 p.m. top of many people’s New Year’s res- area there are twenty-two pre-mapped Registration will take place at the Moraga School District’s three elementary schools in olution list, I’ve discovered a fantas- runs in Orinda and Lafayette that February. tic app that will not only help you range in distance from 3.4 miles to Thursday, February 9, and enjoy the outdoors, but assist you in 10.6 miles. The routes are uploaded Friday, February 10, 2012, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. getting fit. by local residents including routes in Los Perales Elementary, 22 Wakefield Drive (631-0105) Map My Run by Map My Fitness Sleepy Hollow, Orinda Downs, and Donald Rheem Elementary, 90 Laird Drive (376-4441) is an easy-to-use app with a wide the Lafayette Reservoir. The Camino Pablo Elementary, 1111 Camino Pablo (376-4435) array of options. After downloading Lafayette/Moraga area has an enor- For more information about kindergarten registration, please go to the district’s the app and picking a user name, you mous variety to choose from offering website at www.moraga.k12.ca.us. can immediately begin recording 208 uploaded maps with distances of your daily workout via GPS, enabling three miles to a whopping 68 miles. Orinda you to track running pace, speed, If you are looking for a challenging Registration will take place at the Orinda Union School District’s four elementary schools in calories burned and your exact route. run, an ascent feature is your guide. February. A neat feature is the route map dis- Map My Run is a fun and easy February 6, 7, 8, 9 (Monday thru Thursday), 2012, playing the elevation, which can re- app that motivates the user to get out- 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. ally vary in the Lamorinda area. side and get active. Just in case run- Del Rey Elementary, 25 El Camino Moraga (258-3099) One of the fun options is the abil- ning is not your thing, Map My Glorietta Elementary, 15 Martha Road (254-8770) ity to add friends to your app. It is like Fitness also offers, MapMyRide, Sleepy Hollow Elementary, 20 Washington Lane (254-8711) having the support and input from a MapMyWalk, MapMyHike, and Wagner Ranch Elementary, 350 Camino Pablo (258-0016) virtual running group. This mega fit- MapMyTri. ness app also offers a nutrition tap Eric Pawlakos is a senior at Mi- For more information go to the district’s website at www.orindaschools.org. with a calorie budget. If your goal is ramonte High School and on-air re- to lose weight you simply record your porter for the teen radio program, daily intake and Map My Fitness lets Express Yourself!™ Business Service Directory

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Call Jose 510-893-1343 (925) 787­5743 925.376.3268 www.atlasheating.com License #: 018287 1135 Moraga Way, Moraga Since 1908 25 yrs. experience www.bayareaunderpinning.org in Lamorinda www.moragaauto.com Page: B10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 An Intellectual and Technological Odyssey from LeapPad to Smartpen and Beyond Lafayette’s Jim Marggraff empowers people By Sophie Braccini rant about geography,” he says, “so I says Marggraff who adds that he likes on January 19, ready for a new adven- created that tool, an atlas in the shape to go to bed with a problem – “I’ll ture. “What I like is starting from of a playful globe, storing millions of wake up at 4:00 with the solution.” nothing and making something hap- facts that are easily accessible by He needed a tool to easily record pen,” he says. That takes focus and touching it.” The globe compares his ideas, archive them and make confidence, as well as resilience. “I populations and land areas between them searchable. Those are some of failed once with the first version of the locations, it tells distances between the attributes of the Smartpen, a tool globe,” he says, “I lost all the money points, it can calculate the length of to free the imagination, as Marggraff that family and friends had invested geographic features such as rivers, puts it. “As people age they learn to in it, but I came back with a better ver- and also contains cultural informa- prune their ideas, dismiss them as sion.” tion. Removing the globe from its non-achievable,” he says, “after a Marggraff is not overly precise in stand one is surprised to see that it is while, the creativity wanes.” describing what might come next completely hollow: the information is Marggraff says that people using a from his own think-tank. “I have transmitted wirelessly. Smartpen testify that it changed their ideas on how to help people realize “The technology used for the lives. their full potential,” he says. “Web globe is radio frequency that can pick The pen allows one to record technology today can connect people up a touch with an accuracy of 1/8 of audio notes that are associated with to their potential in profound ways. an inch where a non-conductive ma- any words or symbols written at the There is so much information that es- Jim Margraff with an Odyssey interactive globe and a Smartpen terial like paper is tapped,” says same time. Later the audio and writ- pecially younger people provide Photo Sophie Braccini Marggraff, “so I thought, aha! we ten notes that were photographed by about themselves that, properly ike his red Tessla roaming the the Lafayette businessman will blow could take this and flatten it out and the pen can be transferred to a com- arranged, could offer insights to en- Lstreets of Lafayette, Jim you away with his ideas and achieve- put a book on it and create an inex- puter with a simple cable and able them to do things they were un- Marggraff is moving fast at the cut- ments in the complex world of the pensive tool to teach kids to read.” searched on written terms. Notes can aware they could achieve. There are ting edge of technology and intellec- transformation of waves and signals That is how the LeapPad was in- also be instantly shared over the inter- extraordinary opportunities in helping tual challenge. The creator of the into creative applications that work vented. “At first people didn’t get it,” net, from the paper in a Wi-Fi envi- people realize their potential.” LeapPad and the Echo Smartpen like magic. remembers Marggraff, “they said it ronment, creating pencasts that can be Maybe it’s genetic—last year could easily be mistaken for just an Fresh out of MIT, Marggraff al- would never work.” Not surprisingly shared in the cloud. The Smartpen is Margraff’s son, Blake, won first prize inventor, when in fact he is a human- ready believed that one idea can in hindsight, Leapfrog’s doors opened in fact a small computer, with a mini at the Intel International Science and ist whose purpose is to empower his change the world. While some of his and, with Margraff on board, Leap- screen, a microphone, an high-speed Engineering Fair with his partner, fellow human beings with technol- classmates thought of business or mil- Pad became one of the most award- infrared camera that captures 70 Matthew Feddersen, for a cancer ogy. itary applications for the technology winning and successful toys of its frames per second, a storage unit that treatment they worked on when they If you ever meet Marggraff for a they were working on, his first impulse time. holds up to eight gigabytes, and the were both seniors at Acalanes High cup of coffee and a casual conversa- was to create tools for average people, But Marggraff says he does not special paper to write on can be School. Stay tuned – Margraff is a tion, warm-up your neurons before- that no one thought could ever work, like on to hold on to his inventions bought or printed from one’s com- name you will surely hear again. hand – his mind speeds along at a let alone be a commercial success. past the first stages of commercializa- puter. Lamorinda Weekly business articles are intended spectacular pace that could leave you One of his first ventures was the tion. So he moved on to his next in- Now that the Smartpen is a com- to inform the community about local business breathless. When he talks about his Odyssey interactive globe. “I was vention, the Smartpen. “I get my best mercial success, Margraff is ready to activities, not to endorse a particular company, passions and his business ventures, struck by the fact that we are so igno- ideas at 4:00 o’clock in the morning,” move on. He stepped down as CEO product or service. business briefs

Just Say Yes! News from the three Chambers of Moraga 61 Moraga Way, Suite 2 The Chamber of Commerce and the Moraga Rotary Club, www.justsayyes.com Commerce in an effort to promote and reward the spirit of customer Just Say Yes service in Moraga, have established an “Employee of the Therapeutic Lafayette Month” program that will reward a different worker every Massage, an There is no stopping the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce month with $100 in gift cards (to be spent, of course, in Indonesian-In- in its growth. This month, the Chamber greeted its 650th Moraga). “Everyone can nominate their favorite server, fluenced Stu- member – Karan Dhillon, The Contractor’s Coach, cashier, attendant, etc.,” says Kevin Reneau, a Rotarian, dio. www.thecontractorscoach.com – Beware Walnut Creek, Chamber Board Member, and owner of Senior Helpers. After 11 years Lafayette is getting close! “Supervisors and business owners can also nominate of bi-continen- someone.” The forms are available online at tal travel, prac- Mind Your Manners moraga.ca.us or at moragarotary.org. The nomination tice and Manners That Mean Business – a class presented by eti- forms should be faxed to (925) 376-8002 where Reneau learning, espe- quette consultant Shashi Dosaj, on Monday, January 30, will collect them and distribute them to the committee of cially in Thai- from 10-11am in the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce Rotary and Chamber members who will meet each month land and Bali, Conference Room. According to Dosaj, research shows to make the selection. “There are some areas of emphasis Orinda certi- that people who are successful and effective in their ca- on the form that will be criteria for the selection and there fied massage reers or business develop not only an expertise in their are guidelines for nomination which the committee will therapist Kelly field, but an overall polish in appearance and behavior. also utilize,” says Reneau, who wants the process to be Greenwell has They know how to greet others and make introductions, open. The criteria include competence, customer service come back to converse on many subjects, dine with dignity and treat and community service. The monthly winners will be en- stay. She people of all levels with respect. Learning traditional tered in a pool from which will be selected the Employee opened a few rules of etiquette and decorum in today's high-speed, of the Year. Photo provided weeks ago a high-tech world of business are more important today studio downtown Orinda, above Peet’s Coffee & Tea. She than ever before. Topics covered: Self-presentation, pro- Orinda brings to Orinda the techniques she learned and incorpo- fessional image and body language for a favorable first The Chamber's Orinda Country Club Luncheon is sched- rated in her classic training, forming her own method that impression; Handshake and introductions; Business card uled for Friday, February 24, noon to 1:30pm at the she adapts to the different needs of her clients. “I studied etiquette; Networking etiquette for building successful Orinda Country Club, 315 Camino Sobrante. The cost is acupressure, reflexology, shiatsu, and I’ve come up with business relationships; Communication Etiquette - tele- $30 per person. The luncheon’s speaker will be award- my own approach, blending what I’ve learned,” she says, phone/speakerphone/cell phone/voicemail. winning weekend anchor for NBC Bay Area News, and “I do not have a massage menu, I customize based on the Orinda resident, Diane Dwyer. Reserve your seat by call- conversation I have with my clients. Some come for the Monthly Mixer at Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School St. on ing 254-3909, or e-mail the Chamber at relaxation, others may come with a lower back problem, February 8, 5:30-7pm [email protected]. and I will approach them accordingly.” She also offers Thai massage, which is a different modality all together. The first Big Band Ballroom Dance of 2012 will be held “Clients are clothed and we work on a mat on the floor,” on Friday, February 3 at the Rheem Theatre in Moraga. If you have a business brief to share, please contact she explains, “I guide their movements, opening the joints Free dance lessons by Gail Enright, 7- 8pm, dancing to Sophie Braccini at and pressing with my hands or feet on the ‘sen lines’ (the the music of The Big Band of Rossmoor from 8-10pm. [email protected] Thai equivalent to the Chinese meridians).” Tickets are $10 and are available at the Chamber office.

FISCAL YEAR TO DATE (last 2 Quarters) Local Sales Tax Jul-11 thru Dec-11 $ Chg % Chg Lafayette $1,253,398 $126,847 11.3% From Shop Local campaigns to potential sales tax increases, the Lamorinda communities have a Moraga $481,461 $23,730 5.2% strong interest in increasing sales tax revenue. The charts below illustrate the last six quarters of Orinda $444,726 $21,861 5.2% sales tax activity in Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda, as well as Contra Costa County-wide and Contra Costa County $62,726,376 $4,010,555 6.8% northern California. After each quarter ends, check our Business page for updated information. Northern California $1,130,943,916 $107,748,492 10.5%

%CHANGEBYMONTHENDEDQUARTER %CHANGEBYMONTHENDEDQUARTER %CHANGEBYMONTHENDEDQUARTER LafayetteLafayette* * ContraContraCostaCostaCo.o.** NorthernNorthernCaliforniaCalifornia MoragaMoraga ContraContraCCostaostaCCo.o.* * NorthernNorthernCaliforniaCalifornia Orinda Orinda ContraContraCostaCostaCo.*Co.* NorthernNorthernCaliforniaCalifornia

13 16.4 11.7 11.7 11.7 8.5 8.69.5 9.2 9.4 6.6 7.2 7.1 6.6 9.29.5 9.4 8.5 8.6 8.5 9.5 9.6 3.9 9.4 22.2 1.1 7.2 7.1 8.6 666.6 666.6 8.5 2.7 Sept2009/ Dec2009/Ͳ  Mar2009/ Jun2009/Jun Sept2010/ Dec2010/ 7.2 7.1 3.9 6.6 6.6 6.6 Sept2010 Dec2010 Mar2010 2010 Sept2011 Dec2011 2 2.1 5.5 Ͳ0.5 3.7 3.9 Sept2009/ Dec2009/ Mar2009/ Jun2009/Jun Sept2010/ Dec2010/ 3.1 Ͳ2.7 Sept2010 Dec2010 Mar2010 2010 Sept2011 Dec2011 2 Ͳ6

Sept2009/ Dec2009/ Mar2009/ Jun2009/Jun Sept2010/ Dec2010/ Ͳ39.1 Ͳ10.5 Sept2010 Dec2010 Mar2010 2010 Sept2011 Dec2011 Ͳ2.7 Source: MuniFinancial Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B11 A Ruby-Red Pie for Your Valentine By Susie Iventosch hen we were in the Chicago area last really thought of cranberries as the focal point of a pie a top crust, we decided to make a pecan- month to visit our sons, my husband and filling before. crumb topping for the pie. WI were invited for dinner at the home of “The recipe was published in the Daily Herald,” Well, Connie was right. The pie is some friends back there. Naturally, since we all love Connie said. “They periodically interview local cooks, delicious and makes a beautiful, to cook … and eat, we began telling recipe tales and so this recipe is some local cook’s own recipe.” ruby-red Valentine’s dessert. one recipe she mentioned really piqued my curiosity. I just loved hearing this, because it made me realize Happy Valentine’s Day! She said that she had made a cranberry-raspberry pie how much fun readers can have perusing recipes in and that it was absolutely delicious! Though I really their local newspapers! I proceeded to make the recipe enjoy cranberries, fresh, dried or sauced, I had never with a few of our sons’ friends, and instead of making

INGREDIENTS 1 pastry crust (see recipe below) 1 recipe pecan-crumb topping (recipe below) 2-10 oz. packages frozen raspberries, thawed and drained, reserving juices 1 cup water-raspberry juice mixture (from reserved juice above) 6 cups fresh or frozen cranberries 2 cups brown sugar 3 tablespoons corn starch 1/4 teaspoon salt DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400° F. Thaw raspberries in bowl and drain. Reserve the liquid, and add enough water to make 1 cup. Combine cranberries with raspberry liquid in large saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer 5 minutes. Combine sugar, cornstarch and salt in small bowl. Add to the hot cran- berry mixture. Cook, stirring over medium-high heat until the mixture begins to thicken. Remove from heat. Stir in raspberries and cool for about 10 minutes. Pour filling into prepared crust and pat crumb topping on top. Bake at 400° for 35 to 40 minutes, or until crust is slightly browned and filling is bubbling. Remove from oven and cool for at least 30 minutes before serving, to allow filling to set up. Serve with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt. Pie Crust INGREDIENTS 2 cups all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon salt 1½ sticks unsalted butter, cut into small cubes 2 teaspoons cider vinegar approximately 1/2 cup icy water DIRECTIONS Mix flour and salt in large bowl. With pastry cutter or finger tips, crumble butter into flour until well integrated. Sprinkle cider vinegar over mix- ture and stir in well with a fork. Add ice-cold water (strain out ice first), a little at a time, and blend with fork until dough is moist enough to roll into a ball, but not too wet. Roll into one large ball for the pie crust and a smaller ball to use for patching your crust or for cinnamon roll ups for snacking. Pecan Crumb Topping INGREDIENTS 1 stick butter cut into small pieces ¾ cup brown sugar ¼ cup white sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon Susie Iventosch is the author of Tax Bites and Tasty ¼ teaspoon nutmeg Morsels, which can be found at Across the Way in ¼ teaspoon cardamom Moraga, www.amazon.com, and www.taxbites.net. ¾ cup finely chopped, toasted pecans Susie can be reached at [email protected]. These recipe is available on our web site DIRECTIONS www.lamorindaweekly.com In a medium bowl, mix all dries, including nuts. With finger tips or a pas- If you would like to share your favorite recipe with try cutter, cut butter into dries until crumbly and well integrated. Pat on Susie please contact her by email or call our office at top of fruit in unbaked pie shell. 925-377-0977.

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• • • • www.lamorindaweekly.com • • • • Lamorinda Weekly www.Lamorindaweekly.com is an independent publication, produced by and for the residents of Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda, CA Contact us: Staff Writers: Most Frequently Viewed Stories From Our Last Issue: Letters to the editor (max 350 words): Sophie Braccini; [email protected] [email protected] Cathy Tyson; [email protected] - Hundreds of Millions at Stake in Securities Sport events/stories/pictures: Laurie Snyder; [email protected] Fraud Lawsuit [email protected] Cathy Dausman, [email protected] - SMC and MCC Partner to Renovate Driving Range Art, theater, community events: Sports Editor: Caitlin Graveson [email protected] [email protected] - Stepping Up to Serve the Library Foundation Business news or business press releases: Teen Coach: Cynthia Brian; - SMC Gets in the Swing [email protected] [email protected] - Letters to the Editor School stories/events: Food: Susie Iventosch; [email protected] - Consign of the Times: Furniture Consignment [email protected] Contributing Writers: General interest stories/Community Service: Andrea A. Firth, Conrad Bassett, Moya Stone, Ro- Stores Growing in Lamorinda [email protected] sylyn Aragones Stenzel, Lucy Amaral, Alex Crook, - Friends of the Library Get New Bins Publishers/Owners: Andy and Wendy Scheck; Alex Kozela, Rebecca Eckland, Marissa Harnett, - Bang the Drum Slowly... [email protected] Lou Fancher, Nina Mohan, Barry Hunau (cartoonist) - Every Home Needs a Heart [email protected] Photos:Tod Fierner, Doug Kohen, Ohlen Alexander - Top Spot Up for Grabs in High School Soccer Editor: Lee Borrowman; Layout/Graphics: Andy Scheck, Jonas Scheck, [email protected] Amanda Griggs. Printed in CA. Advertising: 925-377-0977 Lamorinda Weekly, Wendy Scheck; [email protected] P.O. Box 6133, Moraga, CA 94570-6133 Katie Malone; [email protected] Phone: 925-377-0977; Fax: 1-800-690-8136; If you wish to view any of the stories above go to Circulation: 26,200 printed copies; delivered to www.lamorindaweekly.com and click the link below the story. homes & businesses in Lamorinda. email: [email protected] Page: B12 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 Not to be missed Not to be missed at 8pm, will open with a string nature of nuptials. Location: ART quartet by Ernst von Dohnanyi, Lafayette Library and Learning followed by a piano duet by Center, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. The NEW Saint Mary’s College Claude Debussy. After a short in- Lafayette. Time: 5:45 pm check- Museum of Art presents: The termission, songs by Britten, in, 6:30pm program. Cost: $22 Veil: Visible and Invisible Rorem, and Joaquin Rodrigo will standard, $12 members, $7 stu- Spaces, Feb. 12-Mar. 25. A Cura- be performed by soprano Sarah dents (with valid ID). www.com- tor talk & reception will be held Sloan. The concert concludes monwealthclub.org. on Sunday, Feb. 12, at 2pm. For with music by Ferenc Farkas and more information visit the mu- Jacques Ibert for woodwind quin- Orinda’s Robert Etheredge will seum website at stmarys- tet. Mt. Diablo Unitarian Univer- discuss and sign copies of The ca.edu/museum or call (925) salist Church, 55 Eckley Lane, American Challenge: Preserving 631-4379. Museum Hours: Walnut Creek; www.ccpas.org. the Greatness of America in the Wednesdays – Sundays, 11am- Free to attend. 21st Century at Orinda Books on Lamorinda’s 4:30pm. Admission: $5 adults; Saturday, February 11 at 1pm. K–12 graders and members free. Fondettes at Aegis of Moraga. Orinda Books is located at 276 Religious Services On Saturday February 18th, Village Square. For more infor- Lafayette Gallery's winter show the retirement community cele- mation: (925)254 -7606; "Heartfelt" will run through brates the 40’s and invites the www.orindabooks.com. March 3. The exhibition features community to join in the free unique sculpture, ceramics, paint- event that will feature The KIDS, PARENTS & TEENS ings, prints, glasswork, jewelry Fondettes, a vocal trio with rich and photography, created by local three part harmony and jazzy tone Lindsay Wildlife Museum pres- artists. The public is invited to quality, sing almost solely An- ents Animals Underground at meet the artists at a free reception drews Sisters’ repertoire. The the LLLC on Thursday, February on Friday, February 3, 6:30- event will start at 6pm with wine, 2, noon–12:30pm. Ms. Jenna will 8:30pm. The Gallery is located at cheese and hors d’œuvres, The read a book about underground 50 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette Fondettes will perform 7-7:45pm. animals at 11:30am, Lindsay will (across from Chow). Hours: RSVP required by calling 377- arrive at noon with various ani- Tues-Sat, 11am-5pm; 7900 or email mals to see and experience. Ages www.lafayettegallery.net; (925) 66 St. Stephen’s Drive, Orinda [email protected]. 2 1/2 - 5, cost: $5/child; 284-2788. 254-3770. www.ststephensorinda.org [email protected]. THEATER Sunday 8am & 10am. Moraga Art Gallery's new The Museum of Children's Art Music at both services. Choir at 10am. show, “Kaleidioscope" features The 14th Annual California In- presents Black History Month’s Sunday School & childcare at 10am. the work of Gallery Member & dependent Film Festival will Invention Convention, Sat. & St. Stephen’s Preschool local artist Angelica Samame, open with Monsieur Lazhar, Sun., Feb 18 & 19, 1-3pm, $8 per painter, as well as guest artist, 254-3770 x19 nominated in this year’s 84th child. Many modern conven- Karin Lechner, jewelry designer, Oscar Academy Awards for Best iences and necessities are directly through March 17. The Gallery is Foreign Language Film. The related to the inventions of black St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church now located at #522 Center St in Opening Night Ceremony will be inventors: blood banks, the refrig- A Loving Community the Rheem Center, Moraga. held at the Rheem Theatre on Feb erator, the electric trolley, the dust 10th, and will be hosted by NBC pan, comb, mop, brush, clothes Sunday Services: 8 and 10 AM The Dorothy Davis group will Active Youth Program, Sunday School, Nursery Childcare, 10 AM Bay Area News weekend anchor, dryer, refrigerator, lawn mower, be on display at the Orinda Li- Ms Diane Dwyer. Monsieur traffic signals, the pen and the 682 Michael Lane, Lafayette, 284-7420, www.stanselms.ws brary Gallery through the month Lazhar will also screen at the pencil sharpener to name a few. of February. A reception will be Orinda Theatre on Feb 14th. The Join us to draw out some blue held on Sunday, Feb 26 from 3- film festival will run from Feb 10 prints and make a model of your Get connected. 5pm. thru Feb 16 at both Lamorinda own fabulous invention! Grow in your faith. Theatres. The seven-day event MOCHA, 538 9th Street, Oak- MUSIC Serve others. Tickets are available for purchase land; ( 510) 465-8770, at the Rheem Theatre and Orinda www.mocha.org. Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church The Big Band of Rossmoor in- Theatre or at the festival’s web- Sunday Worship 9 & 11:00 a.m. vites you to join the Band at the site (www.caiff.org ). For in- The East Bay Eclipse Soccer Rheem Theatre, 350 Park Street, Programs for children & youth quiries, call 925.388.0752 or Club will be holding tryouts for Moraga on Friday, February 3. e-mail [email protected]. (See arti- the 2012 season on the weekend The doors will swing open at 49 Knox Drive l Lafayette l www.LOPC.org l 925-283-8722 cle page B5) of March 3 and 4. The club is 6:30pm. Brush up your moves open to kids ages 5-18. For more with dance instructor Gail Enright Town Hall Theatre presents information about the times and beginning at 7pm. Then at 8pm, "Distracted" from February 25 locations of tryouts, or to pre-reg- ORINDA CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CENTER get ready to be entertained by the to March 17; with previews on ister for the tryouts, visit 31 piece band that includes musi- 24 Orinda Way (next to the Library) - 254-4212 February 23 and 24. After the http://eastbayeclipsesoccer.com/h cians from 10 years old to 92. Sunday Service and Sunday School 10 - 11 am matinee performance of Dis- ome/tryouts. If you have ques- Tickets are available for $10 per tracted on March 4, Dr. Brian tions, email Director Shane Car- Informal Wednesday Meeting 7:30 - 8:30 pm person at the Lafayette Chamber Reading Room/Bookstore M - F 11 - 4; Sat 10 - 1 Blaisch, M.D. will lead a talk and ney at director@ of Commerce, the Rheem Theater Q&A regarding ADHD, autism, eastbayeclipsesoccer.com. www.christianscienceorinda.org or at the door. You can call and re- and other learning and behavioral serve tickets by phone, (925) 284- problems. Contact Town Hall Annual OIS Diverse Abilities 7404, for pick up at Will Call. Theatre Box Office at (925) 283- Awareness Week Open House, Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church, Orinda, 254-3422 1557, or purchase online at Wednesday, February 8 from 8:15 a.m. Traditions Worship Service Community Drumming with www.TownHallTheatre.com. 6:30-8:30 pm at Orinda Interme- 9:15 a.m. Coffee Fellowship Jeni Swerdlow, Thursday, Feb- diate School, 80 Ivy Drive, 9:40 a.m. Education for all ages ruary 9 at 4pm, Moraga Library. 10:45 a.m. Celebrations Worship Service LECTURE & LITERATURE Orinda. Hands on learning sta- Childcare available for ages 5 and younger No experience is necessary to tions, community group represen- participate. This is a children's First Friday Forum presents tatives sharing support resources, event, but all ages are welcome. Dr. Glenn Robinson “The Arab and an exposition wheelchair bas- Our Savior’s Lutheran (ELCA) Register with staff or self-register Spring”; Causes and Conse- ketball game. Come ready to 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette by visiting our calendar of events quences, Friday, February 3 at learn and have fun! All are wel- 283-3722 www.oslc.net at ccclib.org. San Francisco Bay 1:30 pm in the Sanctuary of the come; family participation is en- SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP Area percussionist and art thera- Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian couraged. Free admission. For 8:30 a.m. Classic Service pist Jeni Swerdlow is a dynamic 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Service Church, 39 Knox Drive, more information, please contact and engaging facilitator, trainer, Come find COMMUNITY here. Lafayette. An associate professor Anna Tague: presenter, and performer and her in the Department of Defense [email protected]. interactive, rhythmic events have Analysis at the Naval Postgradu- The Orinda captivated many thousands of ate School in Monterey, Robinson Need Money for College? Con- Community Church participants at several hundred has helped design and implement tra Costa Association of Real- 10 Irwin Way, Orinda | 925.254.4906 | www.orindachurch.org events in the U.S. and abroad. development projects in the Mid- tors Scholarship Foundation is “No matter who you are, wherever you are on life’s dle East and has traveled there ex- offering scholarships to residents journey, you are welcome here!” Under the direction of David tensively. He is a Lafayette of Central Contra Costa County Join us Sundays at 10:00 a.m. Morales, Cantare Con Vivo’s native, a graduate of Acalanes that have completed one year of Chamber Ensemble presents a High School. and holds a Ph.D. full-time college, completed concert featuring favorite songs from UC Berkeley. Refreshments courses with emphasis on real es- fàA Z|Äxá XÑ|ávÉÑtÄ V{âÜv{ from American movies. The audi- will be served at 1pm in Fellow- tate, finance and/or business and A DIFFERENT KIND OF CHURCH! ence will hear the acclaimed ship Hall. For questions call (925) have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. If Chamber Ensemble’s renditions Meeting Sundays at 9am 283-8722 or click on lopc.org, you qualify, scholarship awards St. Mary's College Chapel of Over the Rainbow, Moon News and Information. can range from $1,500 to $2,500. 925 376-5770 • www.stgiles-moraga.org River, Summertime, When You Further information and applica- INCLUSIVE, THOUGHTFUL • TRADITIONAL SERVICE AND MUSIC Wish Upon a Star and more while The Commonwealth Club pres- tions may be found on line at YET FORWARD LOOKING & OPEN MINDED enjoying wine and scrumptious ents: Ralph Richard Banks: Is www.ccarscholarship.com. Dead- desserts. The concert will take Marriage for White People? Wed, line is April 15th. place Sunday, February 12th at Feb 8, 6:30pm. Just in time for 4pm at Temple Isaiah, 3800 Valentine’s Day, Stanford Law please... Mount Diablo Road, Lafayette. School Professor Banks will Tickets are $65 Couple, $35 Gen- tackle that oh-so-controversial in- eral, Young Professionals (22-35) stitution: marriage. His recent $25, $10 Youth (21 and under). book,”Is Marriage for White Peo- Please submit Tickets can be purchased at ple? How the African American www.cantareconvivo.org or by Marriage Decline Affects Every- events to: calling the Cantare box office at one”, explores the deterioration calendar@lamorinda (510) 836-0789. The venue is of marriage in America and its wheel chair accessible. implications for family and ro- weekly.com ...thanks mantic relationships. Join us for The Performing Arts Society an intimate look at the changing evening concert on February 14, Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: B13 Not to be missed Not to be missed 25% Off continuous, professionally liner-political comic Will Durst. * OTHER recorded music, is held in the big, Discounted performance tickets all Frames bright Live Oak Room. On the at $35.00 may be reserved in ad- Book Sale: Friends of Orinda first Wednesday of each month, vance until March 1st using a Eye Exams Library. Inexpensive, gently professional dance duo Karen and major credit card at the Orinda on site used books for all ages and inter- Michael give lessons. A map, ad- Chamber of Commerce web site, 925-386-0258 Hours: Monday-Friday ests on sale, Thurs. Feb 2, 10am- ditional Dance Social details, and www.orindachamber.org or at 10:30AM-6:30PM 1pm at the Sorting Room and any upcoming skip dates are First Republic Bank, 224 Brook- www.visualentreeoptometry.com Saturday 10:30AM-2:30PM Book Shop located at the Library, *not applicable with insurance posted at: wood Road. Tickets at the door (if Orinda Theatre Square valid until 3/31/2012 26 Orinda Way, Orinda. sites.google.com/site/lafayet- available) will be $40.00 per per- (next to Starbucks) teteadance. $2 for members of son. Creating a Peaceful School Lafayette Senior Center, $4 for Conference on Saturday, Febru- non-members. Just $10 yearly to CLUBS ary 4, 8:30am-3:30pm at join the Center, and enjoy the Acalanes High School, 1200 complete range of activities. The Orinda Woman’s Club is Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette. currently accepting applicants The Mt. Diablo Peace and Justice TAO Restaurant FUNDRAISING EVENTS for its major beneficiary awards Center in Walnut Creek is spon- in 2012 Appropriate applying soring an innovative and inspiring On February 4 at 7pm there agencies must be non-profit 501 Serving Japanese and American Food Traditional American Breakfast all-day conference for anyone will be a "Love for Ryan" con- (c ), serving women and children Hamburger & Fries open daily who works with young people in cert featuring Shawn McDonald in need, be Alameda and /or Con- Authentic Japanese Cuisine 8AM – 9PM middle and high school: Teachers, and Paul Johnson to benefit Ryan tra Costa County based and have Best Ramen in the Bay Area! Administrators, Classroom aides, Buchanan. The event will take an annual income of less than School personnel, After-school place at Creekside Community $1,000,000. Application forms 960 Moraga Road | Lafayette | (925) 299 2882 program providers. Registration Church in Alamo CA. All pro- can be acquired from Adeline www.taoramen.com is $35 -lunch is included. Five in- ceeds from this event go direct to McClatchie, Beneficiary Chair at structional hours of Continuing the Ryan Buchanan Trust Fund. (925) 254 1162 or Adeline@mc- Education Credit (.5 CEU) are Buy tickets at www.ryan- clatchie.com. The deadline is available through St. Mary's Col- buchanan.org. March 5th 2012, 7pm. lege for $25. Details are available  at www.mtdpc.org. Soroptimist International of 24- AAUW/OML February Meet- 680’s annual Crab Feed & ing to Focus on State Budget.  Women's Heart Health Month: Silent Auction will be on Satur- The public is invited to the Tues- The month of February is des- day, February 11, at the Lower day, February 21st meeting at  ignated by the National Institutes Court of Oakwood Athletic Club. 9:30am to experience the Califor-  of Health and the American Heart Tickets: $40 each. For tickets and nia Budget Challenge. Assem- Association as a time of aware- information: (925) 285-7797, blyperson Nancy Skinner will ness and action in behalf of [email protected], host the program developed by *HW&OHDQ women’s heart health. Orinda www.soroptimist24-680.org. Next10 org. Attendees will be  Community Church will have a provided with response clickers presentation following worship Kiwanis Club of Moraga Valley that will tally the groups’ “votes”  with information about heart 12th annual Crab Feed, Febru- about how much to spend on  health, and in particular as it per- ary 18th at St Mary's College schools, prisons, the environment tains to women. Sunday, February  Soda Center.Silent Auction, and other state programs, as well   5 at 11:30am; 10 Irwin Way, Dancing. 6pm Cocktails, 7pm as make choices to reduce state Orinda. Dinner, $50 ticket price. For tick- expenses. Socializing from 9-  ets contact Ed Beatson @ (925) 9:45am followed by the Next Ten  If you are thinking about get-  7RWDO&OHDQ 376-3201. All proceeds benefit budget presentation and discus- )RU\RXUKRPH ting your first puppy or have local charities for children. sion. The meeting will be held at concerns about taking care of an the Holy Trinity Serbian Ortho- ill or aged family dog, you are in- Crab Feed & Dance, Saturday, dox Church Cultural Center, 1700 vited to attend a free and inform- February 25, 6–11pm Holy School Street, Moraga. ative Canine CPR Class on Trinity Cultural Center, 1700 Thursday, February 9, 6:30-8pm School Street, Moraga. Bring Lamorinda Toastmasters pro- at Aegis of Moraga, 950 Country your appetites & dancing shoes. vides a mutually supportive and Upcoming Special Events at: Club Dr in Moraga. Instructor Music provided by popular DJ. positive learning environment Ron VanderHeiden, who has been Dinner & Dance $37.50; Dance where members develop commu- a first aid/CPR instructor for over only $10. For non-crab lovers: nication and leadership skills, im- 20 years will provide a free, Chicken available by special ad- proving self-confidence and hands-on CPR class with a life- vance order request. Dinner tick- personal growth. We meet every size dog mannequin. Perfect for ets MUST be purchased in Tuesday at 7:30pm – 9pm at all ages, it will only take 40 min- advance. For info & reservations Temple Isaiah, 3800 Mt. Diablo utes. Please RSVP to call (925) 672-6799. Blvd, Lafayette. See our web-site: [email protected] http://lamorinda.freetoasthost.net/ or call (925) 377-7900. SMC Guild's Bridge & Bunco, Orinda Theatre Thursday, Feb 23, 9:30am- GARDEN February 15th, 2012, 6:30PM Orinda Community Founda- 2pm, Saint Mary's College, Soda tion celebrates its 2nd birthday Center. Fundraiser for student Montelindo Garden Club. On Q & A with Margaret O’Brien with a party on Wednesday, Feb- scholarships. $32 per person-in- Friday, February 17, 2012 Special Screening in Honor of Oscar Winner ruary 29 at 5pm in Orinda Library cludes luncheon. Please call (925) Garth Jacober, owner of Mt. Di- Margaret O’Brien: LITTLE WOMEN Gallery. We are pleased to an- 376-4339 for info and reserva- ablo Nursery in Lafayette, will Movie: 6:30PM – 8:30PM nounce that over $30,000 were tions. speak on Camellias. Mr. Jacober given out in community grants is a master gardner and Camellia Rheem Theatre this past year. All grant recipients St. Mary's College Guild's Irish expert. He has worked in garden- and the community are invited to Cultural Night - Friday, March ing and landscaping for over February 3rd, 7 PM attend the event. 2, 6-10pm at the Soda Center on thirty years. The program is held Big Band Ball Room Dance/Show with the St. Mary's College Campus. An at 10:30am with a social hour be- Rossmoor Big Band Girl Scouts 100th Birthday evening of food, music, singing fore. The event is held at the Come swing with your friends and neighbors or just watch the show! Dance at the Veterans Memo- and dancing in the Irish Style. Orinda Community Church, 10 rial Building -- Monday, March Reservation be accepted until Irwin Way, Orinda and the public th 12, 5:45-7:30pm; Lafayette Girl February 28. The evening is is cordially invited. 14 Annual California Independent th th Scouts K-12 and Lafayette Girl $40/per person. Please make Film Festival , Feb 10 - Feb 16 , 2012 Scout Alumnae. Enjoy an evening checks out to St. Mary's College Registration for the Eighth An- Become a member of CAIFF to receive free & discount of dancing, pizza, cupcake deco- Guild and mail to Pat Wiegmann, nual Bringing Back the Natives movie tickets at Lamorinda Theatres! www.caiff.org rating, singing. Witness the 39 Carr Drive, Moraga, CA Garden Tour, which will take February 10th, 2012, 5:30PM proclamations from City of 94556. For more information, place on Sunday, May 6, 2012 Lafayette and Contra Costa please contact Pat at (925) 376- from 10 to 5, is now open. This Opening Night Movie and Reception at County Supervisors. Countdown 6088. free, award-winning tour features California Independent Film Festival to 7:12pm with a candle cere- 45 Alameda and Contra Costa Monsieur Lazhar mony commemorating when Juli- Lovers of laughter will have the county gardens that are pesticide- 2012 Oscar Nominee ette Low started her first troop. $5 opportunity to enjoy a cham- free, conserve water, provide Best Foreign Language Film by February 9th. Hair care prod- pagne-filled night of comedy at habitat for wildlife, and contain Canada Best Foreign Language Film ucts will be collected to benefit the landmark Orinda Theatre on 60% or more native plants. In- • Toronto International Film Festival 2011 Bachir Lazhar (Fellag) the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. Go Friday, March 2nd. “Live at the cluded in the Tour are 5 Lamor- Winner – Best Canadian Feature Film to www.lafayettegirlscouts.org Orinda” comedy night will start at inda garden, two of them new • Official Selection – Sundance Film Festival 2012 for registration. 6:45pm with a lobby reception additions. This self-drive tour February 10th, 2012, 9:30PM featuring full no host bars. Per- showcases a variety of gardens, Twirl, chat, and tap your feet to formances will begin at 7:30pm. from large parcels in the hills to Q & A with Jon Gries the beat at the weekly Social for Master of Ceremonies, local fa- small lots in the flats. Native plant Five Time Champion all-level, all-style dancers, music vorite Michael Fender will sing, sales and talks are offered at se- Movie: 9:30PM lovers, and observers Wednes- entertain and introduce each co- lect gardens. Volunteers are days, 12:30-2:50pm, at Lafayette median. This year’s slate features needed. Please register or volun- February 11th, 2012, 6:00PM Community Center located at 500 Kabir Singh (Kabeezy), Dan St. teer at http://www.bringingback- St. Mary’s Road. The event, with Q & A with Burt Young Paul, Johnny Steele and the head- thenatives.net/. Special Screening in Honor of Oscar Nominee Burt Young: ROCKY Please submit: VIP Reception: 6:00PM, Movie: 7PM – 10:30PM Events: [email protected] February 16th, 2012, 6:30PM Closing Night with Margaret O’Brien Stories: [email protected] Meet Me in St. Louis followed by Letters: [email protected] Q & A with Margaret O’Brien

Opinion: [email protected] Check www.lamorindatheatres.com for all movie listings Page: B14 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 Tuesday February 14th $22* $36 * Rosy-Rosie Valentine’s Rosy-Rosie Manicure Pedicure Gift Cards, the Most Pampering Gift for Day Valentine’s Day Features * 25% off the romantic rose, lavender, regular price and eucalyptus oils plus a sea Offer Expires salt and botanical nutrient scrub. 5/31/2012 Voted “Best Of” by Lamorinda Moms, San Jose Mercury News, Metro, San Francisco Magazine

SpecialtySpecialty dishes dishes and and desserts... desserts... Nifty Thrift Shop cateredcatered to toyou! you! ClothingClothing & Collectibles& Collectibles Golden 3467Golden GoldenGate Gate Way, Gate Way, LafayetteWay, Lafayette Lafayette 925.324.9620925.324.9620 MonMonMon 12 12SP SP12-5SP-5SPSP-5, SP,Tues-Sat Tues-Sat, Tues-Sat 10am-5pm 10am-5pm 10am-5pm PresentPresent this this coupon coupon and and receive receive a free a free DonationsDonations accepted accepted Mon-Sat Mon-Sat 9am-4pm 9am-4pm cookiecookie platter platter with with 1st 1stpurchase. purchase. 925.284.5237925.284.5237 www.futures-expolored.orgwww.futures-explored.org

Great Selection of Shish Kabab Show Join us for Valentine’s Day Gifts Proudly Presents: Valentine’s Day Gift Certificates Join us for a Special • Japanese origami paper available Three Course Meal to • Incense delight your senses Only $49.99 per couple Tuesday, • Mugs Reservations Call: (925) 338-0351 th • Iron or ceramic tea set Free Admission February 14 • Fan • Embroidery art • Noren

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u • Zen garden L 376 Park Street, Moraga • Music CD (nearby the Rheem Theatre) Call for Reservations • Buckwheat pillow www.shelbyseatbetter.com • Meditation Buddha 925-254-9687 • Zafu • Singing bowl Japanese style & comfort Shelbys Restaurant 925-299-0882 Theatre Square, Orinda 961-A Moraga Rd. Lafayette • sugi-store.com Valentines Valentines Day is around the corner, dont forget to invite the love of your Flower Arranging Class life! Take them to enjoy a three course menu at Roya's Garden. Make a reservation! 3576 MT.Diablo Blvd. Lafayette

Love is the condition in Glamorous Make a gorgeous, lush arrangement to give to which the happiness of your favorite valentine, or to just treat yourself! another person is Fashion By The Season essential to your own. Friday, February 10, 10-12noon (925) 285-6096 1048 Brown Ave., Lafayette Class held in Moraga -Robert Heinlein Sign up at www.petalsandpods.net • • 925-200-3713 20 cial % off V-Day spe Learn, Create and Have Fun with Flowers

TORAN RIS TE Valentine's Day Special February 14 3 course fixed price menu $49.95. Choice of one appetizer, one main entrée and a dessert. T D AP OO AS • SEAF Appetizers Chicken and Mortadella Tortellini in a rich Chicken broth with fried sage. Pasta with fresh tomatoes & basil $12 The Vegetable Garden - Almond and Chicory dirt, Linguini with prawns, artichokes & basil $15 local and seasonal vegetables, roots and flowers. Roasted chicken parmigana $ 14 Main Entrées Niman flat iron steak & potato gratin $17 Grilled New York steak with purcini mushroom salad, Roasted scallops in Spanish chorizo sauce $16 potato puree, and a marrow sauce. Fresh seafood cioppino $18 Roasted wild salmon with potato gratin $15 Lightly smoked roasted halibut served with peas, mint, fingerling potatos and a white wine fume. 3531 Plaza Way, Lafayette Dessert (near the Lafayette theatre) 2 Theatre Square Chocolate souffle with a cacao nib creme anglaise. Reservations recommended (925) 284-1330 Orinda www.table24orinda.com Beverages, tax, and gratuity are not included. 925-254-0124 This is in addition to our regular menu. We are accepting Food low in fat…..since 1963 reservations now on our website www.table24orinda.com Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: C1 Valentine’s Day Miramonte Girls Steam Roll Rivals By Conrad Bassett

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Megan Reid (1) Photos Andy Scheck Open House ast week the Lamorinda girls’ McDonald led the Mats with 19 The game started close as Kizziee Saturday, February 25th Lbasketball teams had one of the points. Junior Carly Gill added 14 hit a layup and then two free throws toughest weeks in the Diablo Foothill and senior Janine Loutzenhiser had in the first minute for Miramonte, Interested in year-round swimming? Athletic League schedule. There were 13. while Ewing added four to give Come and learn about Orinda Aquatics at two Lamorinda rivalry games and Freshman Taylor Odom led Campo its only lead of the game at 6- an Open House on Saturday, February 25th Campolindo and Acalanes played Acalanes with 14 points. 4. from 9-10:30 am at the three games in a five game stretch. Matador coach Kelly Sopak was The Mats then went on a 17-0 run Soda Aquatic Center in Moraga. When the week was over, Mira- pleased with how his team got better to end the period. Miramonte contin- You and your swimmer can watch a workout monte’s girls’ team continued to dom- as the game progressed. “We strug- ued their fine play in the second pe- then join the coaches for a Q&A while enjoying inate DFAL play starting with an gled a bit in the first half and got a lit- riod and led 51-16 at the half. light refreshments. 82-36 win over Acalanes on January tle impatient as our shots were not “I was so impressed with our in- 23. The Mats raised their record to falling. However, in the third quarter tensity to start the game,” Sopak said. Discover how our team puts 19-0 overall while the Dons fell to 12- we settled down and starting rotating “Campolindo did a very nice job 7. better in the press and got into transi- of taking things away that we like to Character First! Matador senior captain Devon tion a lot better, which allowed us to do offensively so we had to make For more information and to RSVP, go to McDonald scored in the first 15 sec- get more high percentage looks at the some adjustments,” he said of Cam- onds on a layup. Dons’ senior Sophie basket.” polindo’s pressure. www.orindaaquatics.org Taylor hit two free throws, while jun- Dons’ coach Chris Russell said Campo coach Elgin Leslie was ior Molly Martin added another and his team continued to battle despite happy with the Cougars’ effort. “I the Dons had their only lead of the being behind. “I thought our team thought we played hard throughout game at 3-2. fought all night despite the deficit we the game. Hopefully we can learn The Mats answered with a free were facing in the second half.” from our mistakes and use this game throw from senior Taylor Kizziee and Miramonte traveled over to Mor- as a springboard to get better for the two layups from sophomore Megan aga to face Campolindo on January second half of league.” Reid. Miramonte never looked back 25. Miramonte extended its win Miramonte had a bye on Friday Kyle Davis as they went on a 12-0 run to build a streak to 20 games beating the and was atop the DFAL at 6-0 and Mortgage Consultant/Owner/Partner 23-9 lead at the end of the first quar- Cougars 82-39. was 20-0 overall. Lamorinda Resident Since 1995 ter. Kizziee was one of four Mats in Campolindo (4-3 DFAL and 9-11 DRE License #01111347/NMLS #274107 In the second period, the Mats double figures with 18 points. Mc- overall) handled Alhambra 61-35 and Direct: 925-314-5299 continued to score and built their lead Donald scored 15 to go with six Acalanes beat Las Lomas 63-47. [email protected] to 38-22 at the half. steals, Gill added 13, and senior Ja- They are now 3-4 in the DFAL and 319 Diablo Rd., Ste 103 • Danville • CA DRE Lic. # 01327738, NMLS#280803 It was much of the same in the nine Loutzenhiser tossed in ten. 13-8 in all games. third quarter; the Mats outscored the For Campolindo, senior Laura Acalanes played Campolindo on RATES HAVE NEVER BEEN LOWER! Dons 19-5, including a 13-0 run in the Hickey had 13 points and eight re- Tuesday, January 31 after the press final four minutes. Miramonte contin- bounds, while sophomore Ashley deadline. Miramonte travels to 30 YEAR FIXED RATE TO ued to extend the lead in the fourth to Ewing had ten points and nine re- Acalanes on February 14 and hosts win, 82-36. bounds. Campolindo on February 16. $2,000,000! 3.875% /4.125% APR GREAT CONFORMING RATES!

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Page: C2 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS Saint Mary’s Still Undefeated after Saint Mary’s Drops Tough Road Trip Heartbreaker to Bulldogs By Alex Kozela and Caitlin Graveson By Caitlin Graveson he men's basketball team con- “I think the game down at Pep the WCC, with big wins over BYU in Ttinues to creep up in the na- was an aberration,” said Gaels' head Provo and #17 UCLA and #23 Saint tional polls as they remained coach Randy Bennett. “It's closer than Louis in preseason, LMU fought hard undefeated in WCC play, moving that, and it was tonight. Pepperdine for another upset this season. from #20 to #16 in the USA/Coaches’ came to play.” Saint Mary’s remained persistent poll and #18 in the AP poll. “If you're at the top of the league and answered every Lions’ attack to Saint Mary's returned to Moraga and you're ranked, you're going to win, 71-64. Holt led Saint Mary's to from a three-game road stretch that have to be ready for that every night,” victory with 19 points while Dellave- saw the team earn hard-fought victo- said Bennett, referring to the Waves' dova added 13. It was the 11th ries at Santa Clara, Loyola Mary- energy. “I'm trying to get our guys to straight victory for the Gaels over the mount, and Brigham Young. Saint understand that, and if we do, it'll Lions (12-9, 5-3). Mary’s defeated Pepperdine the pre- make our guys better because we're In a physical game in Provo, Saint vious week at McKeon Pavilion, playing against better competition.” Mary’s stayed tough to defeat WCC- where the Gaels haven't lost all year. It wasn't any easier two days later newcomer BYU 80-66. The Gaels “Our goal is to stay undefeated at Santa Clara (8-12, 0-7). Despite were called for 22 fouls and the at home,” said senior forward Rob their status as the WCC's last-placed Cougars, 26. Both head coaches had Jones. “We go into each game with team, the Broncos outworked the technical fouls and debris was thrown that on our minds. It helps motivate Gaels for most of the game. In front on the court multiple times. us.” of the first sell-out crowd at the The Gaels went on a 10-0 run to Before hitting the road for the Leavey Center in two years, Saint build a 40-28 lead at the half. Saint three-game stretch, Saint Mary’s Mary’s only led by two points at the Mary’s rode that momentum into the (21-3 overall, 10-0 WCC) played half, up 44-42. second period to extend the lead to 23 for the first time this season as a The Gaels went on a 15-2 run at points. BYU fought to within nine ranked team (#23/24), hosting Pep- the end of the second half to escape points with about two and a half min- perdine (7-13, 11-8) on January 19. an upset and defeat their rivals 93-77. utes to go, but Saint Mary’s held on The Gaels came out with all the de- The 93 points scored were the most to sweep BYU in regular season play. fensive stops to prevent any chance for any Saint Mary's team against Senior forward Clint Steindl had Jasmine Smith (32) had 20 points in the loss. Photo Tod Fierner of an upset, as they handily de- Santa Clara in a regulation game. 16 points for the Gaels, going 4-for-6 feated the Waves 61-47. Dellavedova scored 26 points, from behind the arc. Waldow came up aint Mary’s women’s basketball with 3:44 to play. The Bulldogs re- Jones registered his 13th double- while dishing out seven assists to lead huge for SMC, notching a team-high Sbattled for first place in the WCC sponded with a three to regain control. double of the season with a game- the Gaels. Jones had another double- 19 points and eight rebounds. last weekend. The Gaels played host With 1:04 to play, senior guard Alex high 17 points and 10 rebounds. double with 14 points and 15 re- Saint Mary’s will host San Diego to #20 Gonzaga. With a win and an Carbonel hit a lay-up to pull the Gaels Junior guard Matthew Dellavedova bounds. Sophomore guard Jorden on Thursday, February 2 at McKeon upset of #23 BYU by Santa Clara, the within one point, 69-68. added 13 points, while sophomore Page had a career-high 19 points, Pavilion. Gaels could have been tied for first Out of a timeout, Gonzaga hit a guard Stephen Holt scored 12. while freshman center Brad Waldow “We're keeping our goals the place in the WCC standings. three-pointer with 42 seconds remain- The game was a far closer affair grabbed a career-high 16 rebounds. same as the first game of the year,” Unfortunately, both ranked teams ing. Saint Mary’s could not overcome than the two teams' previous meet- The Gaels then travelled down to said Jones, as he looks ahead to the held on and Saint Mary’s fell to 7-3 the deficit as Gonzaga kept posses- ing, a 74-45 Saint Mary's rout in Los Angeles to face a feisty Loyola rest of the season, “to hopefully end (16-7 overall) and fourth place in the sion and let the clock run out. December. Marymount team. The dark horse in the season as great as possible.” WCC. Smith led the Gaels with 20 The Gaels kept the game close points. Sophomore forward Danielle until late in the first half when Gon- Mauldin added 18 points and 15 re- zaga went on a 17-0 run to build a 41- bounds, both season-highs. Carbonel 26 lead heading into the locker room. had 17 points. Saint Mary’s came out of the gate The Gaels return to action next strong in the second half, rallying to week in Provo against #23 BYU on overcome the deficit. The Gaels took February 4. Saint Mary’s returns the lead 66-64 off of a three-pointer home on February 9 against Portland from senior guard Jasmine Smith at 6:00 p.m.

Alex Carbonel (5) hit a layup to bring the Gaels within one point, 69-68. Freshman Brad Waldow steps up big for the Gaels in tough four game stretch. Saint Mary's stays perfect in WCC. Photo Tod Fierner Photo Tod Fierner

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Poison Oak removal. 376-1995, LeapFrogPlumbing.com Piano Tuning Local, retired teacher is eager Insured and bonded 376-1004. Licensed, insured & bonded to take care of your home and Experienced Piano Tuning pets while you are away. Please Monica’s Cleaning $8 per 1/2” classified ad height By local music teacher call Dede for an interview 925- Residential & Commercial Janitorial Services reach 60,000+ with your ad 925-323-9706 395-0738. References available. Lic. Free Estimates (925) 348-3761 Email to: [email protected] Wednesday, February 1, 2012 www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: C3 SPORTS LAMORINDA’S LOCAL SPORTS Dons Upend Mats in Close Game Presented by lamorinda familycenter at LOPC Campolindo stays perfect in DFAL 2.26.12 By Conrad Bassett Griffin led all scorers with 25 points. Souza paced the Dons with 10 points, 10 rebounds and three key blocks. Shastri led Miramonte with 19 One community serving those in need, together! points, while Goodreault added 18. Just two days later, on Wednesday night, the ac- tion moved over to Moraga where Campolindo hosted Miramonte before a packed crowd. The Matadors struck first on a layup from junior Derek Lin, but that was Miramonte’s only lead of the game. On the next possession, Campo junior Jack Evans nailed a three to give the Cougars the lead. The teams exchanged baskets with Campo leading 12-9 at the end of the first period. $20$20 / includes projectprojectt materials, lunch and ONENE SundaySunday t-shirtt-shirt Campo started the second quarter on a 17-4 run REGISTER ONLINE TODAY, LOPC.org on their way to a 39-20 halftime lead. Campo added to its lead in the third period at one time leading by as many as 28 points. Senior Griffin Piatt added seven points. In the fourth quarter, Miramonte closed the gap by outscoring Campo by 18-11, but could not over- come the third quarter deficit. The final was 66-46. Submit stories to Evans led Campolindo with ten points. Shastri had 21 for Miramonte. sportsdesk@ Campo coach Matt Watson was pleased with how his team played together. “So far we have had seven different kids get game high score, which lamorindaweekly.com goes to show how dedicated the kids are to the team concept.” “These kids work hard in practice to make each other better every day. They are very team- oriented (we prefer to receive your original photo file, kids and these young men are very good basketball players, but they are even better people,” he contin- minimum size: 200 dpi and 1200 pixels wide) James Griffin (22) Photos Andy Scheck ued. ast week all three of the Lamorinda boys’ The week was completed with some non-rivalry Lteams played a rivalry game. Miramonte games. On Thursday, Miramonte dropped a close hosted Acalanes on January 23 and the Mats trav- non-league game at Concord 72-65 and is now 13- eled to Campolindo on January 25 to complete the 7 overall and 3-3 in the DFAL. Lamorinda Swimmers first half of the Diablo Foothill Athletic League reg- Last Friday, Campolindo ran its record to 7-0 ular season. All teams brought winning overall DFAL and 18-2 overall by beating Alhambra 80-53, Master “Go the Distance” records into the rivalry match-ups. and Acalanes fell to 13-8 (2-5 DFAL) losing 57-45 In a game that had 12 lead changes, the Dons to Las Lomas. Competition (12-6 overall) managed to hold off the Matadors Acalanes played Campolindo on Tuesday, Jan- (13-4) to win, 58-56. uary 31 after the press deadline. Miramonte travels Submitted by Richard Jacobberger Before the game, Dons’ coach Darrell Hi- to Acalanes on February 14 and hosts Campolindo rashima, Jr. noted that his team was prepared for the on February 16. challenge. “The team looks ready tonight and our players are improving as a team. I am looking for a strong inside game from Buster Souza.” Miramonte’s senior captain Ross Anderson opened the scoring on a short jump shot and a few moments later, Dons’ senior James Griffin answered with a 3-point shot to take the lead. The Mats held a 20-16 lead at the end of the first quarter behind sophomore Joey Goodreault’s six points and junior Kiran Shastri’s free throws. Shas- tri went five-of-six from the line. In the second quarter, the Dons came out on fire. Acalanes outscored Miramonte 20-11 to take a 36- 31 lead at the half. To start the second half, Griffin scored Acalanes’ first seven points to help build the Dons’ biggest lead, 41-33. Following an exchange of bas- kets, the Mats rallied back. They went on a 12-0 run led by Shastri’s seven points to regain the lead, 47-43. The fourth quarter was close and neither team led by more than four points. The Dons had a 53- 52 lead with 1:47 to go. The Mats fought back to within one with 7.9 Don Tatzin and Susan Skilton Photo provided seconds when Buster Souza came up with a big play afayette City Council Mem- Tatzin recorded 1731.5 miles inside. He blocked Shastri to give Acalanes the ball Lber Don Tatzin, 59, and this year. He is only one-of-two with seconds left in the game. Miramonte immedi- Susan Skilton, 53, placed first in swimmers out of 2,800 partici- ately fouled Dons’ senior Trevor Masland who their respective age groups for the pants to complete over 1,500 made one from the charity stripe, leaving Mira- 2011 United States Masters miles. monte with seven seconds to tie or win. The Dons Swimming “Go the Distance” Skilton swam 944.20 miles in played tenacious defense and the Mats did not make Jack Evans (21) had ten points against Miramonte. event. This was Tatzin’s third the year. She placed 26th overall their last shot. straight year in first place. (men and women). Lamorinda Rugby Club Starts Season Submitted by Tony McKenzie

Photo Karen Drinkwater ugby is alive and continues to grow in the Lamorinda area. The Lamorinda Rugby took to the field for a fun filled and action packed afternoon. RClub held its 2012 season opening day in January and over 250 players of all ages Page: C4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 Love Lafayette

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Lamorinda Weekly Volume 05 Issue 24 Wednesday, February 1, 2012 A bright blue water lily floats amid reflections on the pond of the San Francisco Conservatory. Digging Deep with Cynthia Brian ...read on page D8 Miramonte Kitchen Tour ñ It Takes a Community By Sophie Braccini he Miramonte Parents Club is aiming for the heart—for the heart of the home, with a kitchen tour; for the hearts of parents, as they visit the Thomes and give to the schools to support programs deprived by the State’s repeated budgetary cuts. The six kitchens on this year’s tour were selected to in- trigue you: 6 very different settings, from a 70-year-old traditional adobe ranch house to a contemporary kitchen that has been featured in Pottery Barn. Here’s a sneak peek at two of the Tour’s kitchens: The state-of-the-art, picture perfect kitchen at Wilder, where the tour begins, is located in a model home at the new development that lies just off Highway 24. The views and the incredible setting are worth the ticket price. The kitchen is set in a 5,400-square-foot residence, conceived by Robert Hidey Architects with the intent of linking indoor and outdoor living: the central patio is accessible from different rooms and windows all around frame stunning, open views of the wilderness. The kitchen itself has been designedas a family hub and entertainment cen- ter, full of light and peace thanks to the harmony of white and grey chosen by MEMA Design. The kitchen nook is a bright sitting area where a large rectangular dining table can accommodate eight people. The distressed wood table fits well on one of the most interesting decorative features of the house: Black’s Farmwood re- claimed hardwood floors. At first glance it appears that there is not much in the way of storage space in the kitchen: no deep drawers near the large range in which to store pots and pans, no pantry closet, no counter space near the range, and the oversized honed marble island with its five stools seems to invite more a conversation than active cooking. But the mystery is soon explained: behind the range is another area— the “prep area”, with a plethora of cabinets, a sink and a dishwasher. Because kitchens have become the center hub of many parties, it was important to create a prep/cleaning area that would be hidden from guests. The appliances are the Wolf/Sub-Zero combination and include a double-oven and warming drawer. Interior designer Monique Jasper’s kitchen is in the Glorietta neighborhood. ... continued on page D4 Orinda’s Monique Jasper in her Glorietta kitchen. Photos Andy Scheck

OUR HOMES THE BEAUBELLE GROUP Page: D2 Wed., February 1, 2012 Glenn and Kellie Beaubelle present... Lamorinda Home Sales recorded City Last reported: LOWEST AMOUNT: HIGHEST AMOUNT: SOUGHT AFTER WILLOW SPRINGS LOCATION LAFAYETTE 11 $487,000 $1,936,000 MORAGA 2 $535,000 $595,000 Gorgeous views , flat yard, new paint, refinished ORINDA 7 $675,000 $1,250,000 - MORAGA hardwood floors, large rooms, built-ins, and Home sales are compiled by Cal REsource, an Oakland real estate information company. Sale prices are computed from the county SOON vaulted ceilings are just a few of the outstanding transfer tax information shown on the deeds that record at close of escrow and are published five to eight weeks after such recording. COMING This information is obtained from public county records and is provided to us by California REsource. Neither Cal REsource nor this amenities this home has to offer. Ideally located publication are liable for errors or omissions. on one of Moraga’s most desirable courts, this home is within minutes to trails, St. Mary’s LAFAYETTE College, town and schools! 4 Bdrms., 2 1/2 bath, 859 Acalanes Road, $960,000, 3 Bdrms, 2495 SqFt, 1949 YrBlt, 12-30-11; appx. 3,031sf, .71 acre price upon request Previous Sale: $543,000, 05-04-00 IDEAL COURT LOCATION ~ AMAZING YARD 7 Arbor Way, $745,000, 4 Bdrms, 1830 SqFt, 1941 YrBlt, 12-30-11; Previous Sale: $410,000, 04-29-99 Nice curb appeal, high ceilings, hardwood RINDA 10 Carolyn Court, $487,000, 3 Bdrms, 1074 SqFt, 1951 YrBlt, 12-28-11; - O floors, designer paint colors, Andersen SOON Previous Sale: $655,000, 06-17-04 doors/windows, functional floor plan, and a COMING 615 Crofton Court, $1,775,000, 3 Bdrms, 1883 SqFt, 1958 YrBlt, 12-29-11 park-like yard with views, make up this 3676 Hastings Court, $1,025,000, 2 Bdrms, 1846 SqFt, 1960 YrBlt, 12-21-11 outstanding home. Minutes to downtown, 3641 Madrone Drive, $520,000, 2 Bdrms, 1099 SqFt, 1936 YrBlt, 1-3-12; highway and schools, this home is family Previous Sale: $650,000, 07-12-07 friendly. 5 Bdrms, 3 1/2 baths, appx. 3,109sf, 855 Mountain View Drive, $1,236,000, 4 Bdrms, 3093 SqFt, 2010 YrBlt, 12-23-11; 1.38 acres. price upon request Previous Sale: $560,000, 02-17-10 WALK TO DOWNTOWN AND SCHOOLS 3171 Stanwood Lane, $1,250,000, 6 Bdrms, 3167 SqFt, 1939 YrBlt, 12-22-11; Sophisticated and stylish, limestone accents, Previous Sale: $954,500, 07-24-03 - LAFAYETTE hardwood floors, large picture windows, 1055 Sunrise Ridge Drive, $1,280,000, 4 Bdrms, 3422 SqFt, 1998 YrBlt, 12-23-11; OON S skylights, high ceilings, large decks, amazing Previous Sale: $1,350,000, 09-14-01 COMING views, and a neighborhood tennis court and 831 Tanglewood Drive, $1,936,000, 5 Bdrms, 6120 SqFt, 1925 YrBlt, 12-23-11; pool. The perfect entertaining home! Tranquil Previous Sale: $1,510,000, 10-27-11 front courtyard, quiet location, private road. 1073 Via Roble, $900,000, 3 Bdrms, 2621 SqFt, 1956 YrBlt, 12-20-11 4 Bdrms., 2 bath, bonus room w/entry, 2,996sf., MORAGA .39 acre. Views! price upon request 1936 St. Andrews Drive, $595,000, 2 Bdrms, 2142 SqFt, 1978 YrBlt, 12-21-11; ONE OF A KIND ESTATE SETTING Previous Sale: $269,000, 06-11-90 1938 St. Andrews Drive, $535,000, 2 Bdrms, 1552 SqFt, 1978 YrBlt, 12-21-11; Beautifully remodeled, single level floor plan, Previous Sale: $345,000, 05-12-89 - MORAGA estate setting, professional Chef’s kitchen, ORINDA SOON large windows, flat yard, sparkling pool/spa, COMING 40 Ardor Drive, $880,000, 4 Bdrms, 2131 SqFt, 1954 YrBlt, 12-23-11; amazing views, hear the bells of St. Mary’s! Previous Sale: $950,000, 09-29-06 Ideal end of court location. Minute to town, 20 El Patio, $825,000, 6 Bdrms, 4042 SqFt, 1937 YrBlt, 12-29-11 theatre, trails and schools. 4 Bdrms., 2 1/2 11 Las Aromas, $1,250,000, 2 Bdrms, 2178 SqFt, 1959 YrBlt, 12-21-11; baths, appx. 3,131 sf, 1.98 acres price upon request Previous Sale: $630,000, 06-30-00 44 Loma Vista Drive, $730,000, 4 Bdrms, 2159 SqFt, 1967 YrBlt, 12-23-11; Previous Sale: $765,000, 03-10-04 129 Meadow View Road, $675,000, 3 Bdrms, 2265 SqFt, 1948 YrBlt, 12-28-11 605 Watchwood Road, $1,095,500, 2 Bdrms, 2065 SqFt, 1987 YrBlt, 12-29-11; Previous Sale: $851,000, 04-19-00 6 Westwood Court, $1,170,000, 4 Bdrms, 2986 SqFt, 2006 YrBlt, 12-29-11; Previous Sale: $500,000, 12-08-05

925.254.1212 Lamorinda Foreclosures recorded LAFAYETTE [email protected] www.TheBeaubelleGroup.com Camino Vallecito, 94549, Mortgageit, 12-21-11, $1,350,000, 3982 sf, 4 bd MORAGA Coldwell Banker's #1 Agent and Group in the SF Bay Area Camino Pablo, 94556, GMAC Mortgage, 12-30-11, $607,500, 1762 sf, 3 bd THE BEAUBELLE GROUP

It is because of you that we continue to be leaders in the Lamorinda residential real estate market. #1 Agent/Group in the East Bay for Coldwell Banker #1 Agent/Group for Coldwell Banker Orinda 1996‑2011 Top 1% for Northern California Top 1% in the United States International President's Premier Named as one of the Top Mega Brokers in California by Unique Homes Magazines Representation of over 1 billion dollars in sales to date 20WE LOOK FORWARD TO ASSISTING YOU WITH YOUR REAL ESTATE 2 NEEDS IN 2012.

K B N S L W G W. B Realtor F F Senior Sales Escrow and Marketing Staging Coordinator Senior Sales Associate/Partner Broker Associate Coordinator and Designer Associate/Partner

COLDWELL BANKER, THE BEAUBELLE GROUP ~ 2 Theatre Square, Suite 211 ~ Orinda ~ 925.254.1212 ~ [email protected] ~ www.TheBeaubelleGroup.com Page: D4 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Miramonte Kitchen Tour ñ It Takes a Community ... continued from page D1

The Black’s Farmwood reclaimed hardwood The large, open kitchen of the Wilder model home. floor is a striking feature of the Wilder kitchen.

Behind the Wilder kitchen is a complete prep area. The Wilder kitchen, with a marble island and sink, opens onto the family room. Wednesday, February 1, 2012 OUR HOMES Page: D5

2012Available Lamorinda starting January Real 4,Estate 2012: Guidebook 2012 Lamorinda Real Estate Guidebook The kitchen is the place where her familylives, cooks and entertains. Jasper’s kitchen is a mix of functionality and timeless refinement. The Jaspers built their Orinda home five years ago and Monique, as she worked with architect Doug McQuillan, had precise requirements for the whole house in general, and particularly the kitchen. “I was quite meticulous Ranked #1 East Bay Real Estate Company about how the kitchen had to be laid out,” she says, “I cook and I wanted things to be practical when we entertain. I also wanted the space to be a place where my three sons would hang out or do their homework.” Jasper oversaw functional arrangements such as deep drawers directly under the Viking range, and two cutting boards for efficient prep. ... continued on page D6

• AA close close look look at at the the real real estate estate market market in in Lafayette,Lafayette, Moraga, Moraga, and and Orinda. Orinda. • Seven-year2011 local quarterlydata and trendstrend graphs by city by and city. area. • MapsMaps and and lists lists of of foreclosure foreclosure activity. activity. • DetailDetail on on homes homes for for sale, sale, pending, pending, and and sold. sold. • OutlookOutlook and and predictions predictions for for Lamorinda, Lamorinda, comparedcompared with with the the rest rest of of the the Bay Bay Area. Area. FREE. Go to www.Lamorinda.net, or call 925-550-2353 Troy Feddersen and J. Rockcliff, Realtors Troy Feddersen Broker Associate Two names you can trust for real estate in Lamorinda DRE# 1835783

Lic.: #611120 & Landscaping Family owned in Moraga since 1987 Your friendly neighborhood arborists Darren and Lew Edwards ESTIMATING RISK OF TREE FAILURE A primary goal of tree risk assessment is to provide information about the level of risk posed by a tree over a specific time period. This is accomplished by having a qualified arborist from Advance Tree Service determine the risks of failure. These two factors are determined by: 1. Evaluating the structure conditions that may lead to failure; the potential loads on the tree; and the trees’ adaptations to weakness- to determine the likelihood of failure. 2. Assessing the targets’ value and potential damage-to estimate the consequences of failure and the likelihood that a tree or branch could strike people or property. So don’t wait until it’s too late, call your local Arborist at Advance Tree Service and Landscaping to help you assess your risk today. Advance Tree Service Your Authority on Trees and Landscape. 925-376-6528 [email protected] www.advancetree.com Follow us on Twitter (advancetree) and like us on Face Book The beverage corner, with a refrigerator below, in Jasper’s kitchen. (ADVANCETREESERVICEANDLANDSCAPINGINC.) Page: D6 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Miramonte Kitchen Tour ñ It Takes a Community ... continued from page D1 For the layout, she asked for a large nook area where her young sons come and do their home work, and for entertaining, she had the architect create a ‘butler’s pantry’, a space between the kitchen and the formal dining room where dishes, wine or plates can be set for convenient serving. Jasper’s designing style is apparent in the overall feel she gave to the kitchen, as well as in the details. “We chose honed black granite for the center isle,” she says, “while the other counters are made of basalt, which is a lighter shade of deep grey.” The kitchen cabinets are white, the walls a light grey, the floor a deep, dark cherry; and the whole space is filled with light as two walls mostly made of windows overlook the garden. The kitchen opens into a family room, which is full of light itself. The classic and elegant feel of the space is enhanced by such details as the kitchen door knobs that are miniature shiny bolts, or the design of the faucet overlooking the farmyard sink that could have come from an east coast beach house. Jasper’s kitchen opens onto the garden. “The Parents' Club (of Miramonte High School) was looking for a way to bring the commu- nity together at some sort of fundraising event. We felt that a Kitchen Tour was the perfect event to host,” said Miramonte parent Victoria Bizieff. “Each class donated a lovely basket stuffed with goodies for the raffle. They will be on display at Wilder, the starting point of the tour. Dianna Condon Cuisine will provide morning goodies at Wilder. Table 24 will also present food from their new south-of-the- border restaurant, Barbacoa, at one of the homes.”

The Tour takes place on Thursday, February 9, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $35.00 and can be purchased at McDonnell Nursery, Orinda Books, Lazy K House at Orchard Nursery, or online at www.miramonteparents.com (click on Web Store). Timeless detail adds to the ambience of Jasper’s kitchen. Patricia Battersby Ashley Battersby 925-330-6663 925-323-9955 [email protected] [email protected] ASSOCIATES DRE# 00854469 DRE# 01407784 REAL ESTATE www.patriciabattersby.com

COMING SOON! Happy Valley Pristine Property! 3819 Palo Alto Drive, Lafayette 3,469 Sq. Ft.* .75 Acre* 3 Bedrooms + Large Living Suite, 3 Baths Beautifully Updated Single Level Home Great Happy Valley Neighborhood Lovely Private Yard with Pool Views of the Surrounding Hills Located in one of Happy Valley’s most sought after neighborhoods, this stunning home has been beautifully remodeled, thoughtfully designed with great attention to detail, and shows incredible pride of ownership. In addition to a great kitchen/family room set up, it features a large living suite with fireplace and full bath. This flexible space is perfect as a second family room/office, fourth bedroom or in-law quarters. With walls of glass and eleven skylights, every room is filled with natural light. The .75 acre lot is private and there is wonderful indoor/outdoor access to the patio and pool making this a great entertainer. The location is premium. In addition to being in a favorite neighborhood with cul-de-sacs, there is a walking path up the street connects to Happy Valley Elementary. Offered at $1,499,000 Virtual Tour:

*per Public Records Page: D8 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Natural Attractions Digging Deep with Cynthia Brian By Cynthia Brian “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” Marcel Proust amble at your own pace. Many have activities for chil- dren and most have gift shops or nurseries where you can purchase rare specialty species. Some venues charge a nominal fee while others are free. All will inspire and ignite your love of Mother Nature while entertaining and informing. Grab your loved ones, hat, gloves, cam- era, picnic, sketchbook, and enjoy the splendor of dis- tinctive backyards with fresh eyes. This is by no means a complete list of all the re- markable offerings available. Wineries, bed and break- fasts, historic homes, regional or city parks boast meandering brooks, enchanting paths, potagers, rose gardens and countless opportunities for botanical en- tertainment. I’ve been delighted to be a speaker and au- tograph my books at many of these locations and have worked as an actor in several. Work and play, play and work. This Valentine’s give yourself and your loved ones the gift of natural attractions. Even for the timid traveler, it will be love at first sight.

The pink/purple blossoms of Heather brighten a winter landscape. Photos Cynthia Brian hile many people are swooshing down the ery, I fantasize about borrowing ideas that will find pas- Wslopes or basking on balmy beaches, in Febru- sage into my vegetative projects. ary, gardeners are forecasting future flowering. We pe- This year I’ve dedicated Digging Deep to getting ruse seed catalogues hunting for those special you up, out, and moving. When the weather is dreary, heirlooms and old fashioned favorites while dreaming blustery, and cold, a great way to combine nature with of trips to nurseries to fill our flourishing spring nuture is to visit a botanical garden (see list on page grounds. Although I admit to thoroughly enjoying the D10). If you are planning a winter get away, include a surf and the snow, whenever and wherever I travel, I side trip to a flower show or regional garden as part of make it a point to wander through public gardens, as your itinerary. If you are staying home, delightful public well as any private ones that offer an invitation. With gardens, conservatories, arboretums, and plant destina- camera and notebook in hand, I have an exhilarating tions await your exploration in a relaxing day trip within field day as I discover unusual displays, exotic rarities, a couple of hours driving distance from Lamorinda’s and humorous descriptions. How can you top witness- landscapes. From tropical paradises to dry oasis, I’ve ing tree bark that looks like the top of a tortoise shell or dug up delightful display playgrounds anticipating your shrieking at the sight of a snake plant slithering through arrival. Participate in guided tours, educational pro- the tropical forest? My photo folder has more shots of grams, hands-on workshops, propagation classes, hor- The pitcher plant drinks from its cup to satisfy it's flora than of people. While rambling through the green- ticulture seminars, green living demonstrations, or just water needs. Wed., February 1, 2012 OUR HOMES Page: D9 Garden Lights landscape & Recycling in Lamorinda pool development inc. The numbers below are provided by the Central Costa Garden Lights is an Award Winning County Solid Waste Authority (CCCSWA) and will be Landscape Design-Build Firm included in the Lamorinda Weekly on an ongoing basis Offering Services in . . . when available. • Landscape Design & Installation Planting - Masonry - Concrete - Carpentry November 2011 • Low-voltage Landscape Lighting • Pool / Spa Design, Installation & Remodels 60% • Water Gardens, Ponds & Waterfalls 55% 65% Design & Install with just one call. 50% 70% 925-254-4797 Free Consultations 45% 75% Serving the Lamorinda Area for 18 years. Bonded – Licensed & Insured Lic. #702845

Lafayette’s Recycling Rate for November DESIGN e Ri INSTALLATION u dg 60% IRRIGATION l e 55% 65% DRAINAGE B STONEWORK 50% 70% CONCRETE WORK DECKS 925-258-9233 FENCES cell: 510-847-6160 45% 75% PATIOS Landscape Company Inc. LAWNS PONDS Blue Jay Feldman LICENSED CLEANUP & OWNER/OPERATOR INSURED HAULING www.blueridgelc.com Lic# 818633 Moraga’s Recycling Rate for November

60% 55% 65%

50% 70%

45% 75%

Orinda’s Recycling Rate for November

To register with Recycle Bank: If you’ve lost the letter that contained your PIN number, no problem – Go online to recyclebank.com and click on Thank you for recycling this paper. It is printed on ‘register.’ Enter your information, including your address. Get a new pin by mail or immediately with a message sent at least 50% recycled material and vegetable to your cell phone; now you can complete your registration. based ink and should be recycled again. Page: D10 LAMORINDA WEEKLY OUR HOMES www.lamorindaweekly.com 925-377-0977 Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Public Gardens: Arboretum at University Gerda Isenberg Native San Francisco Botanical of California, Santa Cruz Plant Garden Garden at Strybing Ar- 1156 High Street Yerba Buena Nursery boretum Santa Cruz, Ca. 95064 ]19500 Skyline Blvd. Golden Gate Park 831-427-2998 Woodside, Ca. 94062 9th Ave. & Lincoln Way www.arboretum.ucsc.edu 650-851-1668 San Francisco, Ca. 94122 Open Year Round. Fee. www.yerbabuenanursery.com 415-661-1316 Open Year Round. Free. www.sfbotanicalgarden.org Ruth Bancroft Gardens Open Year Round. Free 1552 Bancroft Rd. Japanese Tea Gardens 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr. Walnut Creek, Ca. 94598 Shinn Historical Park & 925-944-9352 San Francisco, Ca. 94118 415-752-1171 Arboretum www.ruthbancroftgarden.org 1251 Peralta Blvd. Open Year Round. Fee. www.japaneseteagar- densf.com Fremont, Ca. 95636 Open Year Round. Fee. 510-656-7702 Berkeley Rose Garden Open Year Round. Free. Department of Parks and Luther Burbank Home & Recreation Gardens University of California 2180 Milvia Street Santa Rosa Ave. at Botanical Garden at Berkeley, Ca. 94704 Sonoma Ave. Berkeley 510-981-6700 PO Box 1678 200 Centennial Dr. #5045 www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/parks Santa Rosa, Ca. 95402 Berkeley, Ca. 94720 Open Year Round. Free. 707-524-5445 510-643-2755 www.lutherburbank.org www.botanicalgarden.ber Cooper Molera Historic Open Year Round. Free. keley.edu Garden Open Year Round. Free. 525 Polk Street Markham Regional Ar- Monterey, Ca. 93940 boretum Society 831-649-7111 If you enjoy garden 1202 La Vista Ct. shows, these are the www.parks.ca.gov/mshp Concord, Ca. 94521 Open Year Round. Free. three upcoming major 925-681-2968 exhibitions in three www.markhamarbore- Elizabeth Gamble Garden states: tum.org Northwest Flower & Gar- Pink Lantern lights up a wintery day in the Strybing Arboretum. 1431 Waverly Street Open Year Round. Free. Palo Alto, Ca. 94301 den Show, “A Floral Sym- 650-329-1356 phony”, Washington State Matanzas Creek Winery Convention Center, Seattle, www.gamblegarden.org 6097 Bennett Valley Rd. Open Year Round. Free. Wash., February 8–12. Santa Rosa, Ca. 95404 www.gardenshow.com 800-590-6464 Filoli (I shot the movie, Heaven www.matanzascreek.com Portland Yard, Garden & Can Wait, here. Three months of Open Year Round. Free. Patio Show, Oregon Con- exquisitely manicured horticultural vention Center, Portland, perfection!) Mendocino Coast Botani- Ore., February 17–19, 2012, 86 Canada Rd. cal Gardens www.ygpshow.com Woodside, Ca. 94062 18220 N. Hwy. 1 San Francisco Flower & 650-364-8300 Fort Bragg, Ca. 95437 Garden Show, “Gardens for www.filoli.org 707-964-4352 a Green Earth”, San Mateo Seasonal. Fee. www.gardenbythesea.org Event Center, San Mateo, Open Year Round. Fee. Calif., March 21–25, 2012, Gardens at Lakeside Park www.sfgardenshow.com 666 Bellevue Ave. Niles Rose Garden Oakland, Ca. 94610 36501 Niles Blvd. 510-339-2818 Fremont, Ca. 94536 Open Year Round. Free. 510-792-2923 Open Year Round. Free. Seaside succulents. Wednesday, February 1, 2012 925-377-0977 www.lamorindaweekly.com OUR HOMES LAMORINDA WEEKLY Page: D11 Cynthia Brian’s Gardening Guide for February “I’ve had enough of gardening-I’m just about ready to throw in the trowel.” Anonymous If you think you are done with garden chores because it’s winter, think again! Besides perusing the seed catalogues and reading home improvement magazines, pruning takes center stage this month in the “to do” list. Because of last month’s warm weather, roses, fruit trees, and vines may have been given a short reprieve. Get out there now and take care of business. Save a rose stem or two for your Valentine and give the rest of the canes to friends. My rose canes will be available to you for free beginning February 6th. Email me, [email protected] for details.

• BEAT the winter doldrums by forcing bulbs indoors. All you need is a sunny window, a jar, water, and bulbs. Try Paperwhite Narcissus, Amaryllis, and Lily of the Valley • RELIEVE sunburn by cutting a tomato in half and rubbing the tomato on the burn. Allow the juices to dry. • STOP bleeding on your hands or arms after pruning those rose bushes by saving teabags. Place the cool teabags on the cuts and they’ll heal swiftly. • POWER up your palate by planting heart smart greens such as kale, collard, and mustard for super sources of fiber, phytonutrients, electrolytes, and antioxidants. • RAISE your happiness quotient by placing a bouquet of loomsb by your bed to boost your optimism and enthusiasm. • MIX perennials into bulb beds for longer lasting splashes of color. Fern and hosta are excellent companions as filler foliage. • PICK UP a Rainforest Ecological Sprinkler which breaks-up water droplets to improve delivery of water to the root zone, preventing pooling and running off. Lowers water consumption and covers up to 2000 feet with an adjustable spray. • LEAVE moles alone. Although their runs may be unsightly for a short period, moles are meat eaters and not interested in your plants. They actually munch on snail larvae, harmful insects, and grubs so think of them as garden helpers. • OCCUPY a green philosophy and plant a new cultivar, perhaps an impressively colored Echinacea “Solar Flair” or the Korean ground cover fern, “Sohuksan.” • REFRAIN from dressing broken limbs or injuries on trees. Wound wood will develop on trees to protect them. By putting a commercial salve on the damaged tissue, you may be inviting infections and pests. • TAKE a trip to a botanical garden, public garden, flower show, or arboretum for inspiration, entertainment, and family fun. • MOVE your backside off the couch and into the backyard. • DON’T depend on the groundhogs to determine an early spring. When male groundhogs awake from hibernation they are not looking for their shadows but for females. They are the original Romeos! • TRANSPLANT deciduous shrubs before the buds swell. • APPLY final application of dormant spray to fruit trees. • TILL your vegetable garden now to break up clods and help eliminate weeds. • FEED houseplants when you notice signs of new leaf growth. • PLANT strawberries. • ADD curled parsley and garlic chives to a bed near your kitchen for all year beauty and culinary flavoring. • TURN your compost pile. • FEED the birds to keep them attached to your garden. Remove oldnests as most avian fellows prefer to build new houses each year. • CLEAN and sharpen your tools in preparation for spring. • SAY “I Love You” with a colorful bouquet, a potted orchid, or a spray of fragrant posies. Flowers and amour go together.

My daffodils began blooming on January 6th and the jonquils areat their peak right now. Spring is just around the corner. This month I salute groundhogs and Cupids. Happy Valentine’s Day. Let your arrows fly.

Happy Gardening to You!

©2012 Cynthia Brian The Goddess Gardener [email protected] www.GoddessGardener.com 925-377-7827 My virtual door is always open. I am available as a speaker and consultant. Feel free to contact me. Lamorinda’s Leading Independent Real Estate Firm.

ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA ORINDA THE VILLAGE ASSOCIATES: Ashley Battersby Patricia Battersby New Listing New Listing 106 Scenic Drive 105 Amber Valley Drive 20 Monterey Terrace 65 La Espiral Joan Cleveland Special ranch w/charming appeal for comfortable Fabulous 4bd/3ba home in Orinda Downs. Move Architectural Digest worthy, 5000+ sf showplace Villa Romantica! One of OCC's finest homes. 4349 sf, living. Hdwd flrs, beamed LR ceiling, big right in! Lovely, spacious home with 2 family home w/ stunning kit, fab. mstr suite, 2 FR's + sep. 4bd/4ba on .69 ac knoll setting w/lvl lawn, saltwater Joan Eggers windows & sliders to outdoors. 3bd/2ba main rooms, master bedroom with office, all on 1.1 acre apt. Exclusive close-in cul de sac. Beaut. priv. 3/4 pool, patios/terraces. Incredible attn to detail, Linda Ehrich house w/bonus inlaw w/kit, bath & privacy. with pool & spa! acre setting w/ lovely views. numerous upper-end amenities. Offered at $859,000 Offered at $1,595,000 Offered at $1,899,000 Offered at $2,595,000 Joan Evans MORAGA MORAGA LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE Linda S Friedman Marianne Greene Pamela Halloran Dexter Honens II

New Listing New Listing Debbie Johnston 101 Brookline Street 1825 St. Andrews Drive 945 Mt. View Drive 3245 Judith Lane Hal Kaufman Detached spacious 2bd/2bath + ofc in MCC. Stylishly updated Sequoyah detached 4bd/2.5 MCC Charm abounds in this 867 sf cutie on lvl lot nr Delightful 3bd/2ba 1204 sf hm at end of lane in beau- Wimbledon model, large bedrooms, vaulted ceilings. home of 3424 sq. ft. Spacious kitchen/family rm Lafayette Village conveniences. 1bd/1ba tiful oak tree setting. Updated kitchen & baths, spa- Margot Kaufman Great views from top of the hill. Flat yd in back, combo. French drs open to courtyard, plenty of w/exceptional curb appeal. Attn to detail thruout, cious deck & patio, skylights, tranquil setting yet potential patio, dog run, etc. storage, striking views. Fr drs to gardens & decks. Sep artist studio. close to dwntwn & Bart. Susan Zeh Layng Offered at $695,000 Offered at $979,000 Offered at $450,000 Offered at $549,000 Art Lehman LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE Charles Levine April Matthews Karen Murphy Ben Olsen

New Listing New Listing New Price Sue Olsen 3376 Ridge Road 960 Hawthorne Drive 3398 Ridge Road 3286 Sweet Drive Kurt Piper Affordable 4bd detached home in the popular Trad 3bd/2ba hm in trail neighborhood. Hdwd flrs, Fr Special Lafayette Trail 4bd/3ba home nestled Lovely 3150 sf home, flex flr plan, updated thruout, Trail neighborhood surrounded by heritage oaks doors, wood windows, lovely deck for entertaining. among oaks with views of hills on .29 acre. granite kitchen. Sweeping views, 2 mstr bedrooms Tara Rochlin - truly a beautiful, natural setting. Tons of recent Flat yard w/lawn & views. Nr K-8 schls, trail, Easy walk to downtown, shopping, restaurants plus 2 more bedrooms & 4 baths in Burton Valley. improvements made to this charming home. shopping, restaurants & library. & 9 yrs. of schools. Backs to bike trail. Guest set-up w/separate entry. Judy Schoenrock Offered at $649,000 Offered at $719,000 Offered at $869,000 Offered at $875,000 Ann Sharf LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE LAFAYETTE ROSSMOOR Steve Smith Jeff Snell Lynda Snell Clark Thompson Coming Soon New Listing Ignacio Vega 1847 Reliez Valley Road 1258 Panorama Drive 3819 Palo Alto Drive 2600 Tice Creek Circle #2 Newly renovated w/high style & fully updated Totally charming trad ranch hm on most coveeted Beautifully updated sgl lvl 3bd/4ba home on .75 ac Located right on the Golf Course, this 2bd/1.5ba Terri Bates Walker amenities & quality features. Lg new Chef's kitchen street in Lafayette! Quiet cul de sac 1 blk to Happy in great Happy Valley neighborhood. Walls of glass, home has a beautiful remodeled kitchen, Ann Ward w/adj fam rm & formal living/dining rms + stylish Valley Elem. Updated thruout w/vaulted ceiling, 11 skylights, lovely pvt yard w/pool & spa. Views of plantation shutters, crown mouldings and inside master suite. Lots of bedrooms, new baths. granite kitchen & baths. surrounding hills & nr downtown Laf. laundry. Easy walk to new restaurant! Dan Weil Offered at $999,000 Offered at $1,189,000 Offered at $1,499,000 Offered at $239,000 Margaret Zucker Visit www.villageassociates.com to see our weekly online previews updated every Wednesday and Friday by noon. Click on Sunday Open House Friday after 5 PM for Open House listings

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